Climate and Seasons
The weather varies markedly by season, so you need to choose the time that suits your preferences.
Remember that mountains have unpredictable weather, rain showers may develop with little warning, so a folding umbrella is always a good idea. Temperatures at these altitudes (2,000 - 2,500 m) can fall quite suddenly, so carry a sweater with you, even during the spring and summer.
During the Monsoon season (July-September), heavy rain can occur. Views of the mountains can be obscured by haze or cloud from April to September but usually can be seen in early morning and late afternoon. Smoke from forest fires is a risk during May.
Supi and the Saryu Valley are generally higher than Binsar, so the temperatures are cooler, with night frosts between November and March. Summer maxima (between March & October) are 20 to 25 degrees, with minima of 5 to 10 degrees.
Remember that mountains have unpredictable weather, rain showers may develop with little warning, so a folding umbrella is always a good idea. Temperatures at these altitudes (2,000 - 2,500 m) can fall quite suddenly, so carry a sweater with you, even during the spring and summer.
During the Monsoon season (July-September), heavy rain can occur. Views of the mountains can be obscured by haze or cloud from April to September but usually can be seen in early morning and late afternoon. Smoke from forest fires is a risk during May.
Supi and the Saryu Valley are generally higher than Binsar, so the temperatures are cooler, with night frosts between November and March. Summer maxima (between March & October) are 20 to 25 degrees, with minima of 5 to 10 degrees.
December to February
During the real winter daytime maximum temperatures are still a comfortable 10 – 15 degree C but night temperatures sink to around 0 – 5 degree C. Some small amounts of rain can be expected, and even a little snow, but the days are warm and sunny, with good views. Bring a small umbrella just in case and plenty of warm clothes, gloves, woolly hat and padded jacket for the evenings.
June to September
The SW Monsoon rains clothe the hills in cloud. The air is humid but delightfully fresh. The rain storms are localised and tend to be in the evenings, allowing time to walk during the days. Temperatures are around 20 degree C during the day but fall back to 15 degree C at night. The rains clear the dust, allowing crisp views over the hills and glimpses of brilliant green rice crops in the fields. Bring an umbrella to guard against the rain, which can be intense, and a waterproof rucksack. Also beware of the odd leech in damp places and slippery paths.
March to May
From March onwards the temperatures rise steadily from maxima of 15 degree C to around 30 degree C in May but the nights remain comfortable (10-15 degrees). If you live on the plains of northern India, you will find the weather a welcome relief. This is the dry, hot season when villagers start to prepare the land for the monsoon crops. The air can become hazy, due to local forest fires and views of the Himalayan peaks are usually limited to the early mornings and evenings (obviously, we cannot guarantee that you will glimpse the peaks on your trip).
October to November
This the best time for views of the Himalayan snow-capped peaks. The landscape is still green after the rains. The days are warm and sunny but the air temperatures start to drop as the winter progresses, with maxima of 20 degrees and minima of 5 degree C. There is very little rain from mid-October onwards. This is a good time for witnessing the harvest of the rice crop and planting of the winter season crops of wheat and vegetables, with clear skies and extensive views. Bring warm clothes for the evenings.
