Kathmandu Weather in January
Nepal · Subtropical Highlands climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
January in Kathmandu sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 4.8°C (40.6°F) to a high of 16.6°C (61.9°F), with a mean of 10.2°C (50.4°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.7°C (63.9°F), this month is 7.5°C cooler than the yearly norm. This is the coldest month of the year, with average lows of 4.8°C (40.6°F). Precipitation averages 23.1mm, making it approximately 226.0mm drier than the monthly average of 249.0mm. The city receives an average of 9.2 hours of sunshine per day during January, with relative humidity averaging 69.9%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 9.4 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a coldest month of the year experience in Kathmandu, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Kathmandu's subtropical highland climate is shaped by its position in the Kathmandu Valley. I've studied the data and found that the city experiences mild temperatures year-round, with a monsoon season from June to September. The best time for visiting is October to May, when the weather is dry and the Himalayan views are clearest.
January vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | December | January | February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 11.7°C (53.1°F) | 10.2°C (50.4°F) | 11.8°C (53.2°F) |
| Rainfall | 6.4mm | 23.1mm | 26.9mm |
| Sunshine | 9.3 hrs | 9.2 hrs | 10.2 hrs |
| Humidity | 70.8% | 69.9% | 71.2% |
| Wind | 8.6 km/h | 9.4 km/h | 10.5 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 4.2 | 6.6 | 10.8 |
| Snowfall | 0.0 cm | 0.0 cm | 1.7 cm |
Seasonal Context
January falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Kathmandu in January, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Kathmandu in January?
The average temperature in Kathmandu during January ranges from 4.8°C (40.6°F) to 16.6°C (61.9°F), with a mean of 10.2°C (50.4°F).
How much does it rain in Kathmandu in January?
Kathmandu receives an average of 23.1mm of precipitation in January, spread across approximately 6.6 rainy days.
What should I pack for Kathmandu in January?
Based on January weather data, pack warm layers, a medium jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
Is January a good time to visit Kathmandu?
January is a cooler month, suitable for travelers who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor attractions.
Other Months for Kathmandu
Cities with Similar January Climate (Subtropical Highlands)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 27.72°, 85.32°. Timezone: Asia/Kathmandu. Last updated: 2026-07-30.