Trek Nepal Annapurna Circuit is one of the famous and varied trekking trails in the Himalayas, and it is important to know when the best season to trek is so you can enjoy this walk to the fullest. When is the Best Time to Hike the Annapurna Circuit – Weather, Season, and Other Considerations. The Annapurna Circuit can be hiked during different times of the year, depending on the weather, season, and other factors such as the altitude and the state of the trail. When you know what to expect from these factors, you will be able to choose the best time for your trek while keeping yourself safe and comfortable.
There are two main trekking Annapurna Circuit seasons, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are the periods with the most stable climate, which is why they are when the majority of people trek. It’s also not unseasonably cold or wet, with clear skies, and undertaking any trek offers stunning landscapes and views across the Annapurnas and Dhaulagiri mountains.
The weather starts to heat up in spring when the day temperatures are between 15-20 °C at the lower altitudes, yet are still rather cold in the higher areas. During the spring season, the rhododendron forest would also be in full bloom, and the land would become a colourful spread of blooming flowers. This burst of color also adds some extra beauty to the hike and is a very scenic time to visit. Temperatures can fall below zero, especially as you begin to ascend Thorong La Pass and higher elevations. A proper acclimatization will avoid any symptoms of altitude sickness at this altitude, and in the meantime, the skies are clear and the temperatures are warm.
For the Annapurna Circuit, the autumn is the high season for trekking, conversely. Morocco’s climate is most settled at this time of year, with pleasant daytime temperatures and clear skies offering excellent views of the nearby mountain peaks. The monsoon season (which runs from June to September) has just wrapped up, so trails are dry and the air is crisp. Nights can be chilly, especially at high elevations, so be sure to pack your warm gear. Like spring, trekkers should come prepared for cold weather and snow, especially when crossing the Thorong La Pass. It can also be busier, with trekkers from all over the world flocking to tackle the trail, but the weather and scenery make it a wonderful time to set out.
Spring and autumn are the optimum times to trek on the Annapurna Circuit, but even in winter (December to February) or monsoon (June to September), there are a few trackside guesthouses open. For those who are not acclimatized to extreme cold and snow, it is not per se advisable to do a winter hike in the Annapurna region. Unseasonal weather can bring enormous temperature drops, particularly above 4500m, and some sections of the trail and, in particular, the Thorong La Pass, can also be snowed-in, which makes the trail more difficult and dangerous. But if you are a savvy trekker and well-equipped, winter means beautiful loneliness with other trekkers away from the route.
It receives heavy rain during the monsoon season, thus, trekking is not recommended in the monsoon season and wet months. Footpaths become slippery and muddy, and landslides are more frequent. Breathtaking though the lush green vistas can be, it’s not usually the best season for trekking, especially in the highlands where the weather can be pretty hard and hard to guess.
To be brief, the ideal time to hike the Annapurna Circuit Trek Map is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months will provide excellent weather, a blue sky, and good temperature, and of course give the trekkers a chance to get to observe beautiful landscapes and stunning mountain views, which the Annapurna region is known for. But come what may, preparation is a must. Always be sure to look at the forecast, pack appropriately for high and cold conditions, and give a bunch of days to acclimatize, and your trek will be both safe and enjoyable.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a world-renowned trekking circuit in Nepal that spans a variety of landscapes, cultures, and altitudes, and offers the opportunity to view the mountain range from extreme closeness. Backpacking the 230-odd-kilometres (145 miles) typically takes anywhere between 15 and 21 days. From the hinterlands of a subtropical climate, the path ascends to the high grounds close to the Thorong La Pass, at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). The walk will take you through lush forests, stepped farm lands, charming little villages, alpine meadows, and a barren high mountain desert, all with great views of the great Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
As trekkers make their way, the variety of the landscape is noticeable as they journey from the hot, tropical lower valleys to an unforgiving, stony, alpine environment, each with its distinct flora, fauna, and culture. The circuit is not considered a technical climb, but is challenging due to the high altitudes and considerable distance of the trek. This is a moderate to strenuous trek, fit for both experienced trekkers as well as people with a decent level of fitness and prepared for high-altitude adventure.
Annapurna Region Conditions and Climate Summary
3) The Annapurna region is a place of different climates that reflect the different altitudes as you travel along the trek. The weather varies at climbing altitudes, and this ranges from Tropical conditions lower up to Alpine conditions at higher altitudes.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost A subtropical climate with mild to cool weather nearly all year is located at the 800 to 1,500-meter meters. Then the zone of cool temperatures, where 1500 to 3000 meters of the altitude are exposed to the weather that is not too hot in summer, but short and cold in winter. The higher you go (over 3,000 meters), the more alpine the climate: cooler and potentially snowy, especially during winter.
As trekkers near the Thorong La Pass, for example, they reach a freezing, high-altitude environment in the Himalayan zone, where temperatures can drop far below zero degrees Celsius, even in the warmer season. The climate around the Annapurna region can change suddenly, so trekkers should be well-prepared considering different weather conditions. Knowing the climate is important for planning the best time to trek and to stay safe, and also to get the correct clothing.
Spring season: March to May – Excellent for trekking!
One of the best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit is during Spring, from March to May. The weather during this time is known to be stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, perfect for trekking. At lower elevations, we experience pleasant day temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C however, it will be slightly colder the higher we go. This provides comfort and lets in be as you climb into different altitude zones.
The spring also accepts the poetic beauty of blooming rhododendrons that fill the earth with their colours. These flowers, particularly the red and pink rhododendrons, add sheer beauty and make the trek even more visually appealing. The temps are still cold at higher elevations, and trekkers need to be ready for the possibilities of snow and even freezing temperatures around Thorong La Pass.
The best part about this season is that it’s post-winter, and the trails are relatively snow and ice-free. Spring is also a less crowded time of year than in autumn, and hikers can enjoy the peaceful environment in the bargain. All in all, the weather, scenery, and relatively easy trail conditions render spring the optimal Annapurna Circuit trek months.
Autumn Season – September to November – Best Season To Trek
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek The fall season, stretching from September to November, is regarded as the best time to make an Annapurna Circuit Trek. The weather is relatively stable and skies are mostly clear, with majestic scenes of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges on offer. The temperature is mild at an average daytime high in the lowland of 15 to 20 °C, cooler in the highlands, and very cold at night. Getting close to Thorong La Pass and you can expect it to get cooler with chances of light snow.
Autumn is also the post-monsoon time, so trails are dry instead of being muddy this time, like in monsoon. This area has less rainfall during those months, which means the treks are less risky and more enjoyable. As autumn is the peak trekking season, the trails can be crowded, especially near certain key points such as Manang, Jomsom, or Thorong La Pass. And though this can translate into more trekkers on the route, it also means there are better services and infrastructure, as many of the tea houses and lodges are up and running.
This period includes the perfect weather conditions and finest scenery with the best trail situation when in Nepal, and the best season for the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Summer/Monsoon Season: June to August – What to Expect
June to August – Summer/Monsoon Season The monsoon/summer season (June to August) is generally thought of as the worst season to trek the Annapurna Circuit. At this time of the year, heavy rains are driven by monsoon winds which originate on the Indian subcontinent. The lowlands, in the subtropical zone, and the coast are very hot and can reach a high of 25°C to 30°C, while the higher altitudes are cooler, 10°C to 15°C, and more moderate during the day.
During monsoon, the paths become slippery and boggy, with increased risk of landslides, especially in the foothills. The roads are hazardous, and travel is slow and peregrine. Moreover, the rain generally obstructs the views of the mountains, reducing visibility and taking away the sense of splendour that the Annapurna Circuit is so well known for.
However, there are some positive sides to the monsoon season too. It is quieter on the trails – the flowers are more colourful, the trees more lush, and the rivers fuller. For well-prepared, experienced hikers and trekkers who are aware of the risks and know what they are getting into, the monsoon season is still an option, albeit one that requires careful planning and flexibility. In general,, you will need to be more prepared and cautious when trekking in the monsoonthe monsoon.
Winter Months: December, January, February – How to Deal With and Reap the Benefits
Best Time To Trek Annapurna Circuit Winter (Dec-Feb) Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in winter can be a different, although difficult, experience. This is the time when the temperature drops are quite low, and have experiencesexperiences a a chilling cold feeling, as low as the freezing point, particularly at the higher terrains of the region. On lower altitudes, the temperatures are usually warmer, but it can be cold at night as well. Snow is frequent at the higher elevations, especially around the Bhogara and Thorong La valleys and the Thorong La Pass itself, making the trail somewhat strenuous and hazardous to cross.
One of the main problems encountered during a winter hike is the deep snow and the icy conditions, bringing with them the danger of slipping, falling, and avalanches in some places. Additionally, certain tea houses and lodges may shut down for the winter season when not enough trekkers are around, leaving trekkers with a limited choice of places to stay.
Yet winter hiking does have its rewards. The trails are ghost towns by comparison, with far fewer trekkers willing to endure the cold. The peaceful beauty of the snow-covered terrain is unparalleled. For those equipped and with the know-how to deal with high altitudes, winter is a very peaceful and rewarding time to enjoy to wow-factor of the Annapurna Circuit.
Temperature Changes with Height
Local weather on the Annapurna Circuit by elevation. Our 9-day Trek From ALE base at 4000m+ to Thorong La Pass 5416 above sea level was, at the time of writing (September 2019), filled with cold nights and warm to hot days. In the lower elevations (800 to 2,500 meters) of the Andes, temperatures are fairly mild. Daytime temperatures range from 15–20ºC while nights are relatively cooler at 5-10°C, providing a more comfortable trek.
As you climb to mid-elevations (between 2,500 and 4,000 meters), the nights and early mornings will be cooler. Highs tend to range between 10 °C and 15 °C, but at night temperatures can approach freezing, especially if there is cloud cover or a kink in the weather. These temperatures also make it key in the high country, and will be a bit of a challenge to the unprepared, but are manageable with appropriate clothing and preparation.
It is in the high-altitude areas above 4,000 meters where temperatures can reach brutally cold levels. Daytime highs can reach 5°C to 10°C, so at night it can get as cold as -10°C (or even less in the vicinity of the Thorong La Pass). Especially during the winter! Strong winds add to the chill, and high-altitude stretches can feel even colder, so trekkers should be well equipped with insulated clothing, hats, gloves, and thermals.
What the Weather Means for the Trekking Experience
The weather has a significant impact on the experience of the Annapurna Circuit trek. The journey is pleasant as you are going to have a clear sky and moderate temperature with magnificent views of mountains, valleys, and villages. During spring and fall, the weather is generally predictable, with cool, clear days and varying degrees of cold at night. This provides trekkers with the most optimal options for stunning views as well as good trekking weather. There is great visibility, which makes it easy to travel and to appreciate unspoiled panoramic views of stunning peaks like Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Package But so too can the elements. Mud, slime, and danger are what the monsoon season (June to August) brings; trails may turn muddy and slippery, be at risk of landslides, and vistas could be blocked by clouds. Winter is its adventure, obviously with a lot of snow, frozen trails, and cold temperatures, especially in the upper reaches near the pass. A storm or a drop in temperature can prevent the climb, close the trails, or worsen altitude sickness if the mountaineer has not gone through a proper acclimatization.
Thus, Weather factors a lot in the trekking, making a difference in safety, fun, and pace of the trip.
Deciding the Ideal Time Based on Personal Preferences
Selecting the best time to go for the Annapurna Circuit trek is a matter of several considerations of your weather desires, crowd tolerance, and personal trekking expectations. If you want the best weather and don’t mind the bigger crowds, the fall months (September-November) are typically the best time to visit. This time is devoid of cloud, with consistent temperatures, and ideal for trekking, hence excellent for beginners and for people who want to see the classic beauty of the region.
If you don’t mind colder temperatures or trudging through snow-covered paths, winter (December to February) is a great time of year to avoid the crowds. This season is less crowded and offers a more personal trek experience, but trekkers should be prepared for cold and snow.
Spring (March to May) offers some great weather, flowers, and fewer trekkers than in autumn if you enjoy a good mix of cool but manageable weather and abundant natural beauty. The least crowded time of year is the monsoon season, and at this time, there are few other hikers on the trails, and if you don’t mind soggy conditions, then the lush greenery and lack of other hikers is perhaps the best time to go.
In the end, the right time for you depends on your willingness to tolerate certain weather, the number of people you can handle, and the experience you’re looking to have on your trek.
Useful Tips for Trekking in Any Season
Season or off-season, these few practical tips are crucial to a Happy Annapurna Circuit Trek. No matter what season you visit in, always pack layers that can accommodate varying temperatures. You’ll need a decent waterproof one with a hood, which you can adjust at the front, is particularly useful if you are trekking the Annapurna Circuit during the monsoon months, when rain showers are common. If you are traveling at higher altitudes, you should make sure you have insulating layers of down jackets, hats, and gloves, and have thermal wear for the winter.
If you’re trekking in the winter or monsoon season, bring along a headlamp or torch, as days are shorter and trails can be more difficult to see in, in the evenings. Well, duh, check the weather forecast before you try this, and be flexible if conditions change unexpectedly! Acclimatization is important at higher altitudes, particularly in the winter, as the cold can add to the effects of altitude sickness. Schedule rest days and work your way upwards slowly so your body can acclimate.
Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake Trekking poles will also come in handy to help you balance on wet and muddy trails during the monsoon season. During the fall and spring, expect more visitors, but enjoy the established infrastructure and amenities that come with them. Finally, do not forget to bring enough water and snacks, and stay well hydrated, or you will get dehydrated very quickly up there.
When is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit trek?
The optimal time to hike around the Annapurna is usually spring (March-May) and late summer/autumn (September to November). Due to the best weather, clear sky, and a perfect temperature to trek in the Himalayas , these are the best conditions to trek in the Himalayas. In the spring, the mountains are green and lush with blooms of rhododendron covering the hillsides in vibrant shades. The weather is quite warm, with daytime temperatures in the 15-20°C range at lower altitudes, and colder at higher elevations. The fall is also a good season as the clear skies offer great views of the mountains, and the climate remains stable with mild temperatures. Both seasons are popular with trekkers, which ensures that the trail is well-marked and teahouses are open. But don’t visit during the summer monsoon (June to August), when heavy rainfall triggers landslides and trails are difficult to navigate. Winter (December – February) is a second choice as it’s colder, and snow can block high passes. The two treks that you have mentioned are the best. For both Annapurna circular treks best seasons are spring and autumn.
When is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
The optimal time for trekking the Annapurna Circuit is dry, sunny, and not too hot, however, these conditions tend to appear during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November ). These are the times when the weather is stable, and it’s not only enjoyable but also safe to trek. During this season, the temperature is quite moderate; days are a little warmer with an average temperature ranging from 10 to 20 °C, while mornings and nights are a bit cold but not freezing like winter. Day 03: Manang to Yak Kharka (13,917′) Weather: Clear generally, and you will have wonderful views of the Annapurna range. Autumn comes with the same weather too – cool breezes, bright skies, and mild temperatures. The consistent weather at this time allows trekkers to get through most of the days without having to deal with rain, snow, or cold that can be experienced during summer or winter months. On the other hand, the summer monsoon brings pouring rains and, as a result, landslides and muddy trails, while winter temperatures can plummet, particularly at higher elevations, with snowstorms closing the higher passes. For the most ideal weather and the optimal trek, spring and fall continue to be the best times for trekking along the Annapurna Circuit.
When is the best time to go to Annapurna?
Annapurna Circuit Trek March, April, May, September, October, and November are the most ideal months to trek the Annapurna Circuit. It is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp trek in the months of spring or autumn. The best months for spring trekking are March, April, and May, when the sky is clear, the weather is perfect, and the scenery is colorful with blooming rhododendron and other flowers. Recommended seasons for such a trip would be the autumn (September, October, and November) months, when the monsoon is over and the weather is stable with cool, fresh air and terrific mountain views. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild with temperatures, on average, between 10°C and 20°C at lower elevations; higher elevations are much cooler but are still comfortable. Also, the most popular months for trekkers, those months that entice open teahouses and well-marked trails. Trekking from June to August can be dangerous because of the monsoon rains, which lead to landslides and trail closures. December to February is cold, with snow at high elevations, making it difficult to cross high mountain passes. The best time to trek the Annapurna circuit is overdosing on a Himalaya sandwich. For the most comfortable trekking conditions and the most breathtaking scenery, October and November, and then April and May, are the best times of the year to embark on a trek of the Annapurna Circuit.
When is the best time to trek?
The best time to trek in Nepal (based on region and type of trek you plan to do While the best season for trekking is very much dependent on the region and trek you are planning, however, generally speaking, for TREKKING in Nepal, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best trekking seasons. In this half-year period, the weather is stable with no clouds, clear skies, and mild temperatures, which promises ideal conditions for outdoor activities. In spring, the land is emerald, and the rhododendrons, in full flower, make the trails even more beautiful. From September to November, patchy sunlight and good visibility prevail due to the good weather after the monsoon season, clear air providing you with excellent mountain views in the distance, as you can set out to trek along the safe roads. These times also have moderate temperature, approx 10°C -20°C at lower elevations and even colder at higher altitudes, so they are ideal for high-altitude treks. Summer(June to August) is not highly recommended for trekking, given the onset of monsoon in most places, and when it rains heavily and rivers get swollen, and trails become just to avoid trails and rivers. Likewise, winter months (December to February) can be inhospitable, particularly at increased elevations, where snow is common and conditions can get icy. However, for most treks, one can say that Spring and Autumn are the best seasons.
