Nepal Visit in October

Overview

Nepal Visit in October is ideal for an explorer who wants the cultural aspect of touring as well as the scenic view. After the monsoon season ends, the climate in this country is warm and sunny, which is good for trekking and cultural sightseeing.

Hot temperatures vary from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in the plains areas such as Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, suitable for sightseeing at religious temples, markets, and tranquil lakes. The night has relatively low temperatures ranging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). To be safe, one should put on multiple layers of clothing. The month witnesses two very vibrant Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar,, which help the traveler to get a very colorful flavor of Nepalese traditions and happiness.

For those who like hiking and trekking, the month of October turns out to be perfect for hiking in higher altitudes. The trails in areas such as Everest or Annapurna have dusty and good paths with a day temperature of 5-10°C  with good visibility of the Himalayas that are covered with snow most of the time.

The nights are chilly, some of them freezing, particularly at the higher altitudes, which is an important bonus to the thrilling experience of going through such great sceneries. No matter whether you are on a trek to the fairly untouched Langtang Valley, admiring the sunrise at Poon Hill, or exploring Kathmandu, the cultural capital of Nepal, October in Nepal means pleasant and warm weather, beautiful landscapes, and amazing cturulal experience. Get a detailed idea about Nepal Visit in October if you are willing to take your adventure to the next level. Blue Lake Travels and Tours is always ready to customize the itinerary based on your preferences and interest.

Highlights of Nepal Visit in October

• Ideal Weather Conditions: Sunny days with cooler temperatures around 10°C to 20°C.
• Higher altitudes like Annapurna and Everest regions have daytime temperatures between (5°C to 10°C ) perfect for trekking.
• Clear skies and excellent visibility, perfect for photography, especially of the snowy Himalayan peaks.
• Experience major festivals like Dashain and Tihar, which showcase Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.
• Perfect for Trekking and Outdoor Activities: Features moderate temperatures, dry trails, comfortable weather, with trails in excellent condition and fewer chances of rain.
• Enjoy activities like jungle safaris, bird watching, and boating, all amidst Nepal’s stunning natural beauty.

Weather in Nepal during October: What to Expect?

Nepal Visit in October is the best time to travel and explore the mountainous country since the situation is normally excellent during this month. The monsoon season is over in September and October, and it is notably sunny, though a bit cooler by comparison. The temperature at the lower altitudes, including Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, is between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the day, and therefore, cultural tours in these areas are possible. For the nights, some can be chilly, with temperatures ranging between 10°C – 15°C or 50°F – 59°F, so layering is encouraged.

Your Nepal Visit in October is featured with dynamic weather conditions and temperatures. When you advance to the higher territories, the climate does not get very hot, but the temperatures are comparatively low. During the daytime in trekking zones such as Annapurna and the Everest zone, it is normally ( 5 °C to 10 °C ) perfect for long hikes. The weather is mostly dry, especially in the higher altitudes where skies are mostly clear thus affording trekkers a clear view of the snowy mountains. Temperatures, on the other hand, become considerably low at night and can even go below freezing, more so at 3,000m (9,800ft) and above.

Again, the weather is quite good for trekking and other outdoor activities, which makes this month one of the best months for trekking in Nepal. This is because there might be minimal cloud cover; temperatures are moderate, and precipitation is scanty, thus making the trails as excellent as the visibility. Nepal Visit in October offers a good mix for anyone who wants to explore the valleys and learn about the local traditions and anyone who wants to trek up the mountains. October is a very favorable month for traveling to Nepal, whether you are going hiking in the Himalayas or sightseeing in the cities.

Nepal Festivals in October 2024

Dashain in October

If you are in your Nepal Visit in October, make sure that you actively participate in the most joyous festival; Dashain.
Dashain is one of the biggest and longest festivals in the Nepali calendar, which is usually celebrated in October, corresponding to post monsoon harvest season of the country. This colorful festival lasts more than fifteen days and is a feast for the goddess Durga, who is the deity of victory over evil. The festival starts with Ghatasthapana, when a clay vessel with holy water is erected; it inaugurates rituals and celebrations. On a daily basis, the families go to the temples to offer different types of sacrifices to the goddess Durga to pray for prosperity and protection.

Dashain is a festival of Nepali culture and religion that has its origin in Hindu mythology. It is the period that is dedicated to the victory of good over evil and when people celebrate the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. People go to the temples, pray, and enjoy the performance of traditional music and dance during the festival. Among the special days, the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami, is considered especially important, where the elders paint the tika (a combination of rice, yogurt, and red dye) and Jamara (young barley shoots) on the younger members of the family, thus, passing blessings and wisdom. Your Nepal Visit in October can be blessed with such activities if you become part of the celebration.

Apart from its religious significance, Dashain is one of the most socially significant festivals in Nepalese culture. It is the time when people, irrespective of the places they are working or living, pay their visit to their home town to celebrate with their kin. The activities that are practiced include new clothes, feasts, and exchanging of gifts that make the family and other related people happy. This period also witnesses the improvement of relations between individuals within the community through the preparation of various feasts and other related celebrations. Thus, Dashain represents the culturally cohesive celebrations of togetherness and the renewal of social bonds, which makes it a popular and much-anticipated festival in the Nepalese cultural calendar.

Tihar in Late October/November

If you are in a Nepal Visit in October [late] and can extend your stay till the start of November, Tihar can be another big festival to celebrate. Tihar or Deepawali is one of the most colorful and popular festivals of Nepalese people, which falls in the middle of October to early November. This five-day festival is colorful, has a lot of cultural importance, and is derived from the Hindu culture. All the days of Tihar are associated with the worshiping of different gods, animals, and people.

The first day, known as Kaag Tihar, is especially dedicated to crows, which are believed to be the messengers of death. The second day is Kukur Tihar, dedicated to pets, especially dogs, as they are loyal and serve their masters. The third day, Gai Tihar and Laxmi Puja, is dedicated to cows and the goddess of wealth, Laxmi, when houses are cleaned, put with oil lamps and colorful rangolis to bring in prosperity and health.

The fourth day is different for different communities where some celebrate Govardhan Puja, while others celebrate Goru Tihar, and the Newar people celebrate Mha Puja, a worship dedicated to inner strength. The last day of the festival, known as Bhai Tika, is quite remarkable due to the centrality of the brother-sister relationship. Sisters put a multi-colored tika on their brother’s foreheads and offer sweets to them for long life and prosperity. In return, the brother pledges to provide gifts and to defend the sisters. This ritual is a clear indicator of the fact that Nepalis hold the family as a significant aspect of their society and the regard that they have for each other.

Tihar is more than a festival related to religion; it represents the social and cultural ethic of the Nepalese people. It unites families and communities in the appreciation of life, affection, and thanksgiving. The lights and other decorations and other parts of the festival help in developing a joyous atmosphere, and the singing of songs like Deusi-Bhailo, along with the sharing of special foods during the occasion, also helps in developing feelings of togetherness. Your Nepal Visit in October can be meaningful with enriching social values, cultural significance, and celebrations that can enhance your vibe.

Must Visit Places During Your Nepal Visit in October

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu is the colourful capital city of Nepal that does not cease to amaze visitors with its rich heritage. Undoubtedly, if you are in Nepal Visit in October, you will experience the most out of it.

Pashupatinath temple is a very religious temple of Hindus and makes the devotees very spiritual. It is a cultural world heritage site where you can watch the typical ethnic manifestations and religious rites that reveal the nature of Nepalese people.

Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple is the other remarkable landmark. This stupa is constructed on a hill, and the top of this stupa provides a scenic view of the city. The place is very quiet with a playfulness of monkeys, hence a perfect place for individuals looking for a quiet place and for photographers.

Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in the world and an important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Full of prayer flags and the monks and the pilgrims, and wherever you look, it is a place of peace. The nearby monasteries and the local Tibetan markets are also attributes to the same, which enhances the overall experience.

Kathmandu Durbar Square, situated in the central part of Kathmandu, is full of examples of traditional Nepalese architecture. It is evident from the palaces, courtyards, temples and Churches that are seen in the city, including Kumari Ghar, which houses the living goddess. Visiting the ancient square is, in a way, like taking a step back in time.

Cultural aspiring tourists find Thamel as the most suitable destination. This part is just bustling with stores, cafes, and bars. It is the centre where tourists go to find peculiar trinkets, mouthwatering food and loud entertainment. The streets found in Thamel are small and this makes it have a unique characteristic of being both ancient Nepal and modern Nepal.

Weather and Temperature in Kathmandu in October

During your Nepal Visit in October, you can experience that Kathmandu has a non-sultry and pleasant climate with an average temperature of 19°C or 67°F. The warmest temperature in this area can go up to 25°C or 77 °F, and the coolest is at 14°C or 57 °F. It has an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day, making this the perfect time to discover all that it has to offer all year long.

Everest Region

Touring the Everest Region during your Nepal Visit in October is an unparalleled experience for trekking and culture-oriented tourists during the Nepal Visit in October. Namche Bazaar is the largest town in the region and is famous as the gateway to Mount Everest, it has all modern facilities along with the Sherpa traditional feel. Kala Patthar, which is famous for the sunrise views of Everest, can be considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the world.

Lukla, where the famous stairs airstrip is located, is the beginning of the Everest trek and has a lively ambience. The three high passes, which are the Renjo La, Cho La, and Kong Ma La, offer some of the best adventurous moments and a brilliant view of the Himalayas for the trekkers with an incredible experience of the barren and isolated terrains.

Tengboche and Pangboche monasteries make the trek more religious as it is home to some of the biggest monasteries of the region. Tengboche, situated at the base of Mount Ama Dablam, is the largest monastery of Tibetan Buddhism, where tourists can gain some knowledge about this sect as well. The monastery of Pangboche, one of the oldest in the region, allows us to discover the religious life of the Sherpas.

Weather and Temperature in Everest Region in October

The Everest region experiences dynamic weather conditions which you can experience during your Nepal Visit in October. During the day, the temperature is 12°C to 16°C and at night, 5°C to -14°C. Such conditions cause a strenuous environment that contributes to the excitement and difficulty of discovering this wonderful area.

Annapurna Region

Annapurna region is a region that has the provision of trekking and is widely famous for its beautiful sceneries during your Nepal Visit in October. You will begin the trek from Pokhara to the Annapurna region. You will arrive at a place called ‘Tatopani’, also known as Hot Spring, at Jhinu Danda; here, you can take a bath in the natural hot water springs with the backdrop of forests. This is a nice, quiet area where one can relax after a day of hiking.

Ghandruk, the most attractive Gurung village, marks a stunning panorama of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre during the Nepal Visit in October. Stroll through the houses that represent culturally and architecturally rich Indonesian homes and meet the friendly Indonesians. Ghandruk has a lot of cultural significance and scenic beauty; therefore, it is an ideal destination for tourists visiting the Annapurna zone.

The Sunrise view from Poon Hill is considered the most splendid, where you can see the panorama of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. This trip to Poon Hill is done early in the morning, thus, getting to view the snowy mountains as the sun rises. This is one event that most hikers in the area look forward to, or rather, it forms part of the stunning attractions of the area.

At Machhapuchhre Base Camp, you are surrounded by mountains, some of them are the Machhapuchhre (the Fish Tail). The beautiful Annapurna Conservation Area is home to numerous plant and animal species to guarantee a clean environment. Here, you can view the majestic Annapurna, Gangapurna and Himchuli, and therefore, it is the dream of every trekker.

Weather and Temperature in Annapurna Region in October

October is the best time to trek in the Annapurna region because the weather is perfect in this month. During the day, the temperatures are moderate, between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, while at night, temperatures drop to ten to 15 degrees Celsius at most. The presence of clear skies with pleasant weather well suits the imaginative views and the wonderful colours of autumn.

Langtang Region

Among all other places, the Langtang Region is very famous for its beautiful natural sceneries that you must visit during your Nepal Visit in October. The fascinating cultural site also provides trekkers with the distinct opportunity to explore life in the Himalayas. From the initial point of the trek at Syabrubesi, a colourful and beautiful Nepali village that serves as the entry point to Langtang, the trekkers are rewarded with scenic beauty and hospitable folks. This leads to Lama Hotel and passes through forest regions, which are quite rich in growth.

Kyanjin Ri is a must-visit, especially for those who have a thing for an aerial view of things. The climb up is a raffle of spectacular views of Langtang Ri, Dorje Lakpa, and Shisapangma, among others. The high mountains with snow on top and shining in the sunlight must be an astonishing view. Adjacent to it, Kyanjin Gompa provides a cultural experience to tourists as they get a chance to tour Buddhist monasteries and learn more about the traditional Himalayan people.

Weather and Temperature in Langtang Region in October

The weather in the Langtang region is fairly moderate, with the temperature ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius during the day, which is perfect for trekking. The nights could be cool with lows of 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) thus appropriate clothing should be carried. It is, therefore, not a wonder that many people opt to visit Langtang since it is characterized by favourable weather and beautiful views.

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is located in the Terai lowlands of Nepal and, therefore, combines both the country’s wildlife and culture. The park has given a jungle safari which allows the tourists to behold the Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceros and many other species.

There is also bird watching, which is another attraction as more than 500 bird species can be spotted, like kingfisher and Eagle. The Rapti River is another great way to reach the park as it is calm and is usually home to crocodiles and water birds. The Elephant Breeding Area is one of the places to visit to get acquainted with elephant conservation.

It is not only limited to the wildlife but also comprises cultural tours involving the Tharu Village, which are a tour within the villages and interact with the local people. Bish Hajari Lake, which is a beautiful area within the park is perfect for nature walks as well as photography.

Weather and Temperature in Chitwan In October

The climate varies with the temperature being a high of 28°C or 83°F and a low of 20°C or 67°F making it usually warm and suitable for outdoor activities. In conclusion, due to the variety of products being offered, Chitwan is the perfect destination for those interested in the area’s nature and culture.

Pokhara Valley

October is a good season to travel to Pokhara Valley; it is neither too hot nor too cold, and there are many exciting things to do. Likewise, boat rides in Phewa Lake and Begnas Lake are done with a calm and natural environment and the hiking to the World Peace Pagoda, you can get to witness the view of the valley. The International Mountain Museum depicts the culture and this region, more specifically, the Himalayan region.

Tourists with an adventurous spirit can go on a trek to Sarangkot Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the rising sun touching the peaks of Annapurna, Machhapuchre and Dhaulagiri. A must-visit natural feature that preferably should be photographed is the Davis Falls. Visiting these places is a great combination of the beautiful nature and the historical and cultural information.

The climate of Pokhara during October can be described as rather pleasant, with the temperature slightly rising to 66°F (19°C) during the day and dropping to 51°F (10°C) during the night. This is due to the mild weather that makes it comfortable when out exploring the attractions that this beautiful valley offers, perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities, and therefore is a perfect time to visit this wonderful valley.

Nepal Trek in October

Everest Base Camp Trek in October

Setting off journey to Everest Base Camp is one of the most rewarding activities during your Nepal Visit in October. And this is for several reasons. October falls under the best season to trek, which is autumn; hence, the appropriate time to adventure into the Everest Base Camp trek. The climate during this period is good, giving the trekker’s normal climate that is suitable for long walks. The trails are fairly busy giving the trekking experience a rather social feel to it.

October provides the best environment for sightseeing and photography since the environment is clean during this month. Generally, the weather is fine, and one gets to see some of the magnificent mountains like Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, among others. Another incentive for tourists during this season is the beautiful views of mountains that are so popular among trekkers.

October is more or less favourable, with a high of 12°C to 16°C in day and 5°C to -14°C at night. This moderate climate, for the most part, will make for a comfortable trekking experience without the harshness of the winter or the monsoon season rain. It is such favourable climatic conditions that make October a suitable time to appreciate the imperial grandeur of the Everest region.

Annapurna Circuit Trek in October

If you are looking forward to going for Nepal Visit in October, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is what we recommend the most. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is best done in October as it falls in the Autumn season, which is the best season for trekking. The weather is good. As such, it is favourable for trekking due to moderate weather. October provides a clearer atmosphere, which gives the best environment for tourism and taking photos as it captures the natural beauty of the region.

October gives stunning views of the mountains like Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Pisang, Himchuli and Chulu Peak while circumventing the Annapurna Circuit. The trails are very well kept and allow one to hike without the possible problem of the trails becoming slippery in other seasons. This makes the trekking experience even more exciting as trekkers can get clear views of the beautiful scenery.

October is a great month regarding weather conditions. The average high during the day is approximately between 20 – 25 degrees Celsius, and the low during the night is between 10 – 15 degrees Celsius. The probability of precipitation, such as rain or snow, is obscure, thus making the trekking experience a delightful one.

Mardi Himal Trek in October

Your Nepal Visit in October is one of the best travel choices you will make, and adding the Mardi Himal Trek to it is just the icing on the cake. Autumn is the best season to start the Mardi Himal Trek, and October is among the best months of Autumn, to be precise. The weather is perfect, the temperature is moderate, and the surroundings are very neat, which makes it more conducive. This time of year is best for taking pictures and sightseeing, as one can get to see Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Pisang, Himchuli, Chulu Peak and many more.

The trail goes through naturally dominating areas such as Dhampus, Deurali and the forest camps. These areas provide a real feel of the presence in the country with its rich vegetation cover. There are no slippery places on the trails; the paths are smooth, and the walk is quite enjoyable on the trek.

The weather conditions that prevail over October are quite good, with sunny and fine days of the month. The climate is mild and warm during the day, experiencing temperatures of 15 to 20 degrees C, while at night, the temperatures are considerably low at about 5 degrees C. The probability of having a rainy or snowy day is extremely low, and therefore, the chances of a disrupted trekking experience are extremely remote.

Langtang Valley Trek in October

The Langtang Valley Trek must be on your checklist during the Nepal Visit in October. It is best done during the Autumn season and since October falls under this season, it is the best time to do the trek. The weather at this time is moderate and is well suited for tourism ventures since the environment is fresh and clean for sightseeing and taking pictures. The views of Langtang Lirung, Shisapangma and Dorje Lakpa are marvellous, and one gets an opportunity to see the natural beauty of the place.

It has a different brand identity from naturally dominant villages like Syabrubesi and Kyanjin Ri. The pathways are clearly marked and do not pose much of a problem with slipperiness to allow for convenient movement. There is relatively low precipitation during this time of the year; hence, less snow, and this makes trekking much easier.
It is warm during the day and gets to temperatures of 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), which is perfect for trekking. But nights can be chilly, and the temperature may range between 0 degrees Celsius and 5 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit and 41 degrees Fahrenheit) respectively, therefore, warm clothing should be taken.

Manaslu Trek in October

October also remains favourable for the Manaslu trek among the 12 months of the year. This could be an ideal choice for trekking during your Nepal Visit in October. Autumn is the best season for the Manaslu Trek because October is considered part of the main trekking season, which is Autumn. The climate is quite good hence the favorable weather for the trekking activity. The surroundings are not contaminated at all; the light makes the sightseeing and photo-shooting perfect, and the landscape is simply gorgeous.

This trek offers a panoramic view of Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II range towards the North. Some of the natural spots are the villages like Namrung, Lho, Ghap, Samagaun, Samdo and the pass Larkya La. The trails are very much preserved, giving the hiker a good experience without having to constantly worry about slipping.

The daytime temperatures in October are around 15°C, which makes the trek rather comfortable. It can be colder at night, going down to 0-3 degrees Celsius. Therefore, warm clothing should be expected. This is even better for the trekking experience because of the reduced chances of rainfall and snowfall will be experienced.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October

Nepal Visit in October is preferable when one is planning to visit this beautiful country without any hassle. The Annapurna Base Camp trek also does not come second to none when it comes to peak trekking time. In October, the weather is moderate, which is perfect for various outdoor activities, and the formation of the weather can be regarded as an advantage. Hygiene in the area also favours sightseeing and taking pictures with vantage views of the Annapurna Mountain, including Himchuli, Dhaulagiri, Kang Guru and Annapurna II.

In this specific month, the trails are not muddy; hence, the possibility of developing a slippery black surface is eliminated during the hikes. You can enjoy the magnificent views of some of the prominent mountain ranges, mainly Himchuli, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre. The absence of fog and absence of high intensity of precipitation, both in liquid or solid form, enables trekkers to have a clean environment.

This month is usually characterised by good weather; the temperature during the day ranges from twenty to twenty-five degrees Celsius, and at night, the temperature ranges from ten to fifteen degrees Celsius. Such moderate conditions of the weather make October the best month for trekking in the Annapurna Base Camp to have nice views of the Himalayas.

Ghorepani Poonhill trek in October

During your Nepal Visit in October, you should not expect the Ghorepani Poonhill trek to be an exception. Favourable climate conditions characterize this period since the weather is moderately cold and the environment is clean and condone making it suitable for sightseeing and photography. The weather is good, and one gets a clear view of the Himalayan range, including Himchuli, Dhaulagiri, Kang Guru and Annapurna II – it is photographers’ delight.

The routes around Poon Hill and Ghorepani are naturally prominent, and the trails are quite good in October. The trails are well maintained, and this eliminates the possibility of trekkers encountering muddy sessions during the trekking exercise, the routes are well defined hence easy to follow. Besides, there is a low possibility of rain and snow during the month, making the trekking experience even more enjoyable as one is not interrupt.

During October, the climate is rather comfortable, with the daytime temperatures ranging from around 28˚C and at night, the temperatures hover around 12˚C. This makes trekking enjoyable and, at the same time, reduces the probability of availing bad weather conditions. In general, October is the best time for the Ghorepani Poonhill trek in terms of the weather and stunning views that this month provides.

Conclusion

Overall, your Nepal Visit in October will undoubtedly be an astonishing journey. Whether you visit the cultural landmarks or go on a trek to EBC, ABC, or Manaslu, your journey will not go in vain. So, if you are planning your trip in October, which is the best time to see the colors of Nepal, you have come to the right place: Blue Lake Travels & Tours. Whether your wanderlust calls for action, such as extreme sporting or knowledge, like cultural immersion or even tranquility, we have great and unique offers and discounts just for you. Let us be your door to an extraordinary holiday in Nepal – because you deserve the very best dream holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions?

What is the weather like in Nepal in October?

October is one of the best months to visit Nepal, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall. Daytime temperatures in Kathmandu range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

Is October a good time for trekking in Nepal?

Yes, October is considered the prime trekking season in Nepal. The weather is stable, and the trails are in excellent condition. Popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp are particularly enjoyable during this month.

Do I need a visa to visit Nepal?

Yes, most visitors require a visa to enter Nepal. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or land border crossings. You can also apply online beforehand.

What are the main festivals in Nepal in October?

Dashain, Nepal’s biggest festival, often falls in October. It’s a vibrant and important celebration that lasts for 15 days, featuring family gatherings, religious rituals, and cultural events.

Are there any altitude concerns while trekking in Nepal in October?

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on higher treks like Everest Base Camp. Acclimatize properly, take it slow, and drink plenty of water. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, descend to a lower altitude immediately.

How do I get around in Nepal?

In cities, you can use taxis, ride-sharing apps, or local buses. For longer distances, domestic flights, tourist buses, or private vehicles are popular. For treks, walking is the primary mode of transportation.

What is the local cuisine like in Nepal?

Nepali cuisine features dishes like Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup), Momo (dumplings), and Thukpa (noodle soup). Food is generally mild, with spices used for flavor rather than heat.