05 February, 2026 |
Imagine standing at the base of the world's highest mountains, but instead of just white snow, your world is filled with vibrant pinks, blues, and yellows. Trekking in Nepal during the Holi Festival is a magical experience where adventure meets the most joyful celebration. Known as the "Festival of Colors," Holi marks the end of winter and the victory of good over evil. It is the perfect time to visit because the spring trekking season kicks off right after the festivities, offering clear skies and blooming flowers.
In 2025, Holi will be celebrated on March 13 in the hilly regions like Kathmandu and Pokhara. People gather in the streets to throw colored powders (abir), splash water, and dance to happy music. It’s a time to forget old mistakes, make new friends, and enjoy traditional sweets like Gujiya and Sel Roti.
Note: If you’re already celebrating Holi in Kathmandu or Pokhara and looking for a group to join for trekking right after, you can meet us directly there. It’s the perfect place to recharge after the festivities before heading into the Annapurna wilderness.
If you are dreaming of the Annapurna mountains, your journey should begin in Pokhara. This beautiful lakeside city offers a more laid-back but incredibly vibrant Holi. You can throw colors along the Lakeside area with the stunning Annapurna range reflecting in the waters of Phewa Lake. Once the colors wash off, you are perfectly placed to start one of these legendary trails:
The ABC trek leads you right into the heart of the mountains, surrounded by giant peaks. After the energy of Holi, the walk through blooming red rhododendron forests provides a peaceful but colorful contrast. You will reach the base camp at 4,130m, where the air is crisp and the views are life-changing.
For those who want a quieter path, the Mardi Himal trek is a hidden gem. It offers some of the best views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and is perfect for a shorter 5 to 7-day adventure. The trail is less crowded, allowing you to carry the peaceful spirit of the festival into the wilderness.
The Ghorepani Poonhill trek is one of the most popular short treks, making it a perfect follow-up to the energy of Holi. Since the festival falls in March, you will be walking through lush rhododendron forests that are in full bloom, adding natural splashes of red and pink that match the festival's colors. This trek is ideal for beginners and leads you to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210m). Here, you can witness a spectacular sunrise that paints the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges in golden hues, providing a peaceful moment to reflect on your journey.
For those seeking a more peaceful and "off-the-beaten-path" adventure after the lively festivities in Pokhara, the Khopra Danda trek (also known as the Khopra Ridge) is a fantastic choice. It is a quieter alternative to the more crowded trails, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas that feel close enough to touch. The trek typically lasts about 7 to 9 days and gives you the chance to visit the sacred Khayar Lake, located at an altitude of 4,660m. It is the ultimate way to carry the joyful spirit of Holi into the deep, serene wilderness of the high mountains.
For treks in the Langtang or Manaslu regions, the ultimate place to celebrate is Kathmandu. The city's epicenter for Holi is Basantapur Durbar Square, where ancient temples become the backdrop for massive color parties and live music. After enjoying the festive chaos in the capital, you can head out to these spectacular trails:
After the city parties in Kathmandu, we can head toward the Everest Base Camp trek, when the trail begins to glow with spring colors. The season is favorable in a way that views of peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam become sharp and clear. As you trek through famous Sherpa hubs like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, you might even catch locals still celebrating with music and traditional songs. Reaching the base camp at 5,364m after such a joyful start makes the entire trip feel like a true masterpiece.
Just a short drive from Kathmandu, the Langtang Valley is known as the "valley of glaciers". This trek is perfect for March because the weather is cool and crisp. You will walk through Tamang villages and reach Kyanjin Gompa, where you can see the mountains in all their glory.
For the true adventurer, the Manaslu Circuit is a remote and challenging trail that circles the world’s eighth-highest peak. Because it requires special permits and a guide, it stays very peaceful compared to other routes. Starting this trek after the high energy of a Kathmandu Holi celebration offers a deep dive into Nepal's wild and spiritual side.
If you are looking for a bigger challenge, the Annapurna Circuit takes you through changing landscapes, from green forests to high-altitude deserts. You will cross the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416m. Celebrating Holi in Pokhara first is the best way to fuel up on joy before tackling this world-class route.
After you have enjoyed the colors and hospitality of the festival, the trekking agency Nepal One Adventure will be ready to guide you from your stay toward these stunning trails.
To get the most out of your Holi experience, you need a place where you can meet fellow adventurers. These hostels are great spots to find other groups to celebrate with:
We highly recommend that you visit one or two days earlier and check into your hostel. This allows you to create a trip group, meet new friends, and plan your Holi festivities well before the celebrations begin on March 13.
Staying in these hostels allows you to join street parties and group celebrations easily. Once the colors have washed off, the trekking agency Nepal One Adventure will guide you from your hostel toward your chosen trekking trail, ensuring a smooth transition from the festival to the mountains.
(Note: The specific names of the hostels and "Nepal One Adventure" were provided in your query and are not mentioned in the provided sources.)
Wear Old Clothes: The colors are fun but they will likely stain your clothes forever, so wear something you don't mind throwing away.
Holi in Nepal is more than just a party; it’s a way to connect with the local culture before stepping into the silence of the Himalayas. Whether you choose the lakeside fun of Pokhara or the ancient streets of Kathmandu, your trekking story will be painted with memories you’ll never forget.
If you’re looking to add more diversity to your Nepal experience after trekking, consider exploring the incredible wildlife and natural beauty of the Terai region. These carefully designed tours offer the perfect balance of relaxation, nature, and adventure after your time in the Himalayas.
Duration: 3 Nights / 4 Days Jungle Experience
Chitwan National Park is Nepal's famous lowland jungle and a completely different landscape from the mountains. It offers rich biodiversity, peaceful river landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Enjoy colorful Holi celebrations with local communities, followed by exciting wildlife activities inside Nepal’s famous national park. Chitwan offers the perfect balance between festive energy and peaceful jungle experiences, making it an ideal destination after your trekking adventure.
Highlights include:
This short yet immersive getaway is ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with relaxation.
Duration: 4 Nights / 5 Days Authentic Wildlife Expedition
For those seeking a quieter and more remote safari experience, Bardiya offers raw wilderness and fewer crowds. Known for its untouched forests and strong tiger habitat, this destination is perfect for nature lovers and serious wildlife enthusiasts.
Celebrate the festival in a peaceful local setting while exploring one of Nepal’s most pristine wildlife reserves.
Highlights include:
Contact Our Team to customize your tour to either of these national parks.
Sign up to receive the best offers
Comments (0)