The Annapurna Circuit Trek of the Annapurna Region is a renowned Himalayan trek. It combines diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and enchanting views of the Himalayas. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in April is an excellent choice for a picturesque journey. April is part of the Spring season and offers captivating natural beauty to the trekkers. It provides dry and safe trails with the vibrant beauty of blooming rhododendrons.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek in April is one of the best times to experience Nepal’s diverse landscapes, from vibrant forests to deserts to snow-covered peaks. The weather is also comfortable for trekking and offers clear mountain views. However, the trek also involves certain difficulties and requires preparation. This article will present you with all the details regarding that.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most well-known treks in the world. Join us on this adventure, and we will take you on a journey to discover Nepal and its surreal scenery.
The Annapurna Circuit trail’s temperature in April is moderate and suitable for trekking. Regions like Chame experience a temperature of about 15°C during the daytime, which is ideal for walking. As you ascend, the temperature decreases, but it never goes below freezing, at least during the daytime. Moreover, the weather in April remains stable, with a low risk of calamities.
Longer Daylight Hours
The Annapurna Circuit experiences at least 12 hours of daylight during April. It means that you have ample time in your hands to reach your resting point without worrying about getting delayed. You can trek at a slow pace and still reach your destination. Not only that, but you can also have more rest time while trekking.
2019 was the year I decided to visit Nepal and go trekking. I had three weeks, so doing a long trek was a good option. My Everest Trip was recommended to me by friends, and Puru was a great help when I had to choose a tour.
The Annapurna Circuit trek has it all: views of the mountains, highlights of trekking destinations (like Poon Hill), a challenging walk, and, best of all, enough days to feel one with nature.
When you are a first-time trekker, getting good guidance about equipment and what to expect during trekking is essential, and Puru willingly…
2019 was the year I decided to visit Nepal and go trekking. I had three weeks, so doing a long trek was a good option. My Everest Trip was recommended to me by friends, and Puru was a great help when I had to choose a tour.
The Annapurna Circuit trek has it all: views of the mountains, highlights of trekking destinations (like Poon Hill), a challenging walk, and, best of all, enough days to feel one with nature.
When you are a first-time trekker, getting good guidance about equipment and what to expect during trekking is essential, and Puru willingly answered all my questions.
Upon my arrival in Kathmandu, everything was arranged nicely for me. I had agreed to go with other trekkers, which was lovely as they were great companions. Our guide Ratna was always beneficial and a great guy to be around. He knows how to interact with people and give me information, and throughout the whole trek, I always felt he could keep the group safe and happy.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is just amazing. Because of the excellent service provided to me by Puru and his staff, I recommend this agency to everybody who wants a trouble-free trip to Nepal.
Lesley
Australia
Lesley
Australia
I visited Nepal in March 2012 with my friend Thomas from France. The first person I met in Nepal was Puru. He organized transport to pick us up at the airport’s arrivals hall and then transported us to the heart of Thamel in Kathmandu.
After this, Puru helped us find accommodation…
I visited Nepal in March 2012 with my friend Thomas from France. The first person I met in Nepal was Puru. He organized transport to pick us up at the airport’s arrivals hall and then transported us to the heart of Thamel in Kathmandu.
After this, Puru helped us find accommodation and told us everything we needed to know about Nepal. Puru helped us organize everything we needed for our trip to Nepal, including trekking Permits, reliable porters, good-quality trekking equipment, and trekking route advice. He took care of all transportation, including our flights to Lukla, taxis in Kathmandu, and good-quality bus services to the rest of Nepal.
Puru also helped us with our shipping and cargo needs, as after we trekked, we needed to ship some equipment home, and Puru found us the best courier service at a very reasonable price. Puru is a lovely man with extensive knowledge about Nepal and trekking. In the short time I have known Puru, he has proven to be a brilliant, honest, friendly, and reliable guide and agent, as well as a friend for life. I would recommend his services to anyone visiting Nepal. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact me at adrian.mc@hotmail.com
Arian
Ireland
Arian
Ireland
I am a solo female trekker, and in 2012. I did my Annapurna Circuit Trek, Everest Panorama Trek, Langtang Trek, and Kathmandu Valley Trek with Puru and his company, My Everest Trip Travel & Tour Nepal. Nepal was excellent, and the trip was incredible. If you are like me and looking for a reliable company which is trusted to provide personalized service at a reasonable price and long-lasting friendship, this is the place to go!
Luya
China
Blossoming Rhododendron Forest
April is the prime time of the enchanting spring season when trails are decorated with lush flora. The trails of Annapurna Circuit come to life because of the blooming rhododendrons. The Annapurna Circuit Trek in April is a vibrant spectacle, with rhododendrons blooming in multiple colors, including red, white, and pink. Clear skies in April enhance the clarity of flowering rhododendron forests.
Minimal Rainfall
Annapurna Circuit Trek experiences very little rainfall in April. The average precipitation received during this month is about 50 mm in the lower regions like Besisahar. The upper regions, Lille Muktinath and Jomsom, experience 5 to 15 mm rainfall. Hence, the trails are dry and safe for trekking.
Clear Mountain Views
April ensures crisp mountain vistas, especially in the mornings. You can get an unobstructed view of mountains like Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Manaslu, and Gangapurna more clearly in April. When the morning sunrise casts a glow upon these mountains, they appear to be golden, which is mesmerizing to witness.
Weather and Temperature of Annapurna Circuit in April
The Annapurna Circuit transitions from winter to spring in April, offering a pleasant moderate temperature. Daytime temperatures rise gradually, making April a comfortable month for trekking in the Annapurna region. Since the trek involves varying altitudes ranging from lower to significantly higher elevations, the temperature varies in each shifting altitude. The temperature at the lower elevation can reach up to -10°C in the upper elevations like Thorong La (5,416 m).
Besides, April has longer days, allowing longer rest durations between trekking. The weather is stable and predictable. In April, the Annapurna Circuit experiences minimal rainfall, about 50 mm in the lower region. The upper region experiences lesser rainfall than the lower regions, like Beshisahar, where precipitation appears suddenly. The upper areas, like Thorong La, might experience strong winds, up to 50 km/h, in high places like Thorong La and Jomsom.
Below is the approximate temperature of different places of Annapurna Circuit:
Location
Min Temp Range (°C)
Max Temp Range (°C)
Besisahar (760m)
10°C to 14°C
24°C to 28°C
Chame (2,670m)
-2°C to 2°C
14°C to 18°C
Manang (3,540m)
-6°C to -2°C
10°C to 14°C
Thorong Phedi (4,540m)
-10°C to -6°C
4°C to 8°C
Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
-14°C to -10°C
2°C to 6°C
Muktinath (3,800m)
-5°C to -1°C
12°C to 16°C
Jomsom (2,743m)
-1°C to 3°C
16°C to 20°C
Tatopani (1,190m)
6°C to 10°C
22°C to 26°C
Pokhara (822m)
12°C to 16°C
26°C to 30°C
Food and Accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek in April
The food options include Nepalese traditional cuisines like Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari (Lentil soup, rice, and curry) and international dishes like toast, muesli, pancake, and many more. Since you will walk longer and need energy, we recommend choosing carbohydrate-rich foods like Dal and Bhat. A meal will cost around USD 5 to USD 10, depending on your desired item. So, you will spend anywhere from USD 15 to USD 45 daily for food. The price of the food increases as elevation increases.
Tea houses and lodges are the two accommodation options available during the Annapurna Circuit Trek in April. While tea houses are most common in the higher elevations, hotels and inns with amenities like hot showers, internet, and charging are available in the lower elevations. The tea houses charge between USD 5 to USD 15 for an overnight stay. Since April is the peak trekking month, the accommodations might be filled with people. So, we recommend you book early to secure the place of your choice.
Difficulties of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in April
Regardless of the month, the difficulty of Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderate. Long walking hours, rugged terrain, and the risk of altitude sickness are some of the difficulties that are always present. But what are the challenges that are April-specific?
Crowded Trails and Limited Accommodations
In April, the weather is comfortable, the trails are dry and safe, and the views are clear. Such conditions are perfect for trekking. So, many international and domestic tourists hit the trails of the Annapurna Circuit to explore the Annapurna Region, making the trails crowded.
In turn, the accommodations also become crowded. You may need to book in advance or share the rooms. So, trekking the Annapurna Circuit Trail in April is difficult for those who prefer solitude.
Windy and Dusty Trails
The higher regions like Jomsom are windy in April, especially in the afternoon. Such places experience a wind of about 30-50 km/h speed. The strong wind will carry the dust along with it. Walking when it’s dusty is irritating, as it might enter your mouth, eyes, and lungs. We recommend you wear a buff or mask.
Altitude Sickness
The Annapurna Circuit Trek involves hiking to 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass), and you will spend most of your time above 2,500 m. Hence, the risk of altitude sickness is always a concern in this trek because of the lower oxygen level in the higher region. You may experience symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
Overpacking or Underpacking
This trek takes you from the lower 800 m region to the higher 5,416 m region. The temperature changes with increasing altitude. The lower regions, like Chame, experience hotter days in April. However, the upper regions, like Thorong Phedi, experience milder temperatures. Hence, many don’t pack the right clothing to fit both temperatures or tend to overpack, resulting in problems both ways.
Tips for Successfully Completing Annapurna Circuit Trek in April
The Annapurna Circuit Trek in April requires careful planning due to the significant altitude changes. Here are some of the tips that you might find helpful:
Due to the crowded trails, you might not find the accommodation that fits your preferences and might have to adjust. To prevent that, always book in advance.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek includes varying topographies and altitudes. To comfortably navigate these, pack according to your needs, including lightweight and heavy clothing.
The lower region experiences hotter days, meaning water loss from the body is also higher. Drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water daily to regulate body heat and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, consider descending to lower altitudes.
The other way to deal with altitude sickness is to acclimatize to the lower oxygen level. Ensure that you take a day off to acclimatize.
Although April provides pleasant and stable weather, weather in the high-altitude mountains can be unpredictable. Delightful weather can turn horrible anytime, so be cautious and check the weather forecast.
To avoid the cooler evenings, embark early and enjoy the comfortable trek in a suitable daytime temperature.
Since the daylight hours in April are longer, don’t add more trekking hours to your itinerary. Instead, focus on trekking at a certain pace with required rests.
Our itinerary below is well-suited for April as it doesn’t include walking for more than 8 hours. It also includes an acclimatization day at Manang, allowing you to adjust to the lower oxygen level and prepare for the hike up to Thorong La. Considering your trekking style, you can customize the itinerary.
Day
Itinerary
Altitude (m)
Duration
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
1,400m
–
Day 2
Drive to Ngadi
920m
7-8 hours
Day 3
Trek to Jagat from Ngadi
1,300m
6-7 hours
Day 4
Trek to Dharapani from Jagat
1,860m
5-6 hours
Day 5
Trek to Chame from Dharapani
2,710m
5-6 hours
Day 6
Trek from Chame to Lower Pisang
3,240m
5-6 hours
Day 7
Trek to Manang
3,540m
6-7 hours
Day 8
Acclimatization day at Manang
3,540m
–
Day 9
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
4,120m
3-4 hours
Day 10
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi
4,560m
3-4 hours
Day 11
Trek over Thorung La to Muktinath
5,416m → 3,802m
6-7 hours
Day 12
Drive to Tatopani and enjoy a hot spring bath
1,190m
4-5 hours
Day 13
Drive back to Pokhara from Tatopani
827m
6-8 hours
Day 14
Drive or fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara
1,400m
6-8 hrs (drive) / 25-30 min (flight)
Conclusion
April’s moderate and clear weather favors the Annapurna Circuit Trek, making it one of the peak months for hiking. The crisp mountain views in the clear April skies, including the Annapurna massif, add a profound sense of satisfaction to the trekking journey. The Annapurna Circuit trek in April is more than a physical journey; it is an immersive experience with a mix of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and a sense of Himalayan adventure.
FAQs
How is the Annapurna Circuit weather in April?
The Annapurna Circuit weather in April is moderate, offering a pleasant climate. The optimum visibility of surroundings in the clear skies offers a satisfying trekking journey. However, the weather in the high-altitude Himalayas is unpredictable and fluctuates.
Is it required to book accommodations in April?
Since the Annapurna Circuit Trek is crowded during April, accommodations also fill up quickly. Booking in advance ensures a comfortable stay during the trekking journey.
Is April an appropriate time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, April is an appropriate time to trek in the Annapurna Circuit. April is abundant in natural splendor with blooming flowers, vibrant forests, and pleasant weather. Spring is in full swing during April, which enchants the travel journey.
Which seasons are best for trekking the Annapurna Circuit?
It is best to trek the Annapurna Circuit during the Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons provide favorable trekking conditions with milder weather and temperatures.
Will there be snow on the trail?
Yes, higher sections like Thorong La Pass may still have snow from winter, but lower trails are mostly clear.
Hi, I am Ishower. I am from the Dhading region and have been working here since 2015. I am pro on Manaslu, Langtang, and Annapurna region. I love those territories since I know everybody and everything. They resemble home regions for me.
I am experienced, persevering, and idealistic. I love my work since it is my obsession. I appreciate each second while on the trek and help others to appreciate it. My most outstanding quality is my inspirational disposition and neighborly nature.
My office isn’t just doing the expert business yet but being your agreeable and reliable visit administrator in Nepal. On the off chance that you offer an opportunity to manage us, you will feel come as a visitor and go as a companion; I attempt consistently to make my customers increasingly cheerful and need to give the best assistance that is our objective. Come with us and see genuine Nepal.
I visited Nepal in March 2012 with my friend Thomas from France. The first person I met in Nepal was Puru. He organized transport to pick us up at the airport’s arrivals hall and then transported us to the heart of Thamel in Kathmandu. After this, Puru helped us find accommodation and told us everything we needed to know about Nepal. Puru helped us organize everything we needed for our trip to Nepal, including trekking Permits, reliable porters, good-quality trekking equipment, and trekking route advice. He took care of all transportation, including our flights to Lukla, taxis in Kathmandu, and good-quality bus services to the rest of Nepal. Puru also helped us with our shipping and cargo needs, as after we trekked, we needed to ship some equipment home, and Puru found us the best courier service at a very reasonable price. Puru is a lovely man with extensive knowledge about Nepal and trekking. In the short time I have known Puru, he has proven to be a brilliant, honest, friendly, and reliable guide and agent, as well as a friend for life. I would recommend his services to anyone visiting Nepal. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact me at adrian.mc@hotmail.com
