Annapurna Circuit is one of the best ways to explore every high and low of the Annapurna Region. If there is any trek that covers most of the region, then it has to be this. Because of this reason, its trails invite thousands of trekkers from all over the world. It is such a trek that sees a constant flow of adventurers and travelers, which significantly increases in May, as it falls within the spring peak trekking season.
What makes May such an appealing month? What are its pros and cons? During May, nature awakens from its winter slumber, filling the air with vibrant scents as landscapes come alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Annapurna Circuit Trek in May presents its own set of challenges, requiring a unique approach to preparation. Let’s explore the various aspects that make May an ideal month for this trek.
Table of Contents
Why Annapurna Circuit in May?
Comfortable Temperature for Trekking
The temperatures in May in all three climatic zones that the trails of Annapurna Circuit pass through are on the warmer side, ranging from 10°C to 30°C. However, the temperatures in the higher regions, like Thorong La Pass, are below freezing. The weather is also stable since the chances of snowfall are minimal. However, some areas may experience slight rainfall as the monsoon approaches. So, trails are dry and safer to walk on.
Longer Daylight Hours
The daylight hours in May are more extended, typically around 13 to 14 hours daily. This provides you with ample time to cover the daily distance. You can trek to your resting place comfortably without worrying about having to walk in the dark. You can also have more resting periods between the treks.
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
Blooming Flowers Everywhere
The Annapurna region is known for its many species of rhododendron forests and about 1230 species of flowering plants. These multicolored flowers bloom in the spring season. The Annapurna circuit also bursts into life in spring, including May, with different shades of color, ranging from pink to red to white, and many others. Various wildflowers dotting the hillsides add charm to the dramatic landscapes and are visually appealing.
Clear Mountain Views
One of the prominent features of trekking in May is the clear views. With relatively stable weather and a lower chance of precipitation and cloud appearance, you can witness the grandeur of the Himalayan vistas, including the Annapurna massifs, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, and other peaks.
Wildlife Exploration and Birdwatching
Annapurna Conservation Area, where the Annapurna Circuit Trek lies, is home to more than 500 species of birds and about 120 species of animals (reptiles, mammals, and amphibians). Spring doesn’t just bring nature to life; animals are also active in spring. So, a spring month like May is the perfect time for wildlife exploration and birdwatching.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty During May
The Annapurna Circuit Trek’s difficulty is moderate, as it traverses through routes with deep gorges, dramatic landscapes, diverse climatic regions, rugged terrains, and extreme passes. The risks of altitude sickness are also present. But what are the difficulties that you might have to face in May? I think we should find out.
Crowded Trails and Accommodations
The trails of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in May are crowded as it is the peak trekking season. Hence, the first difficulty or drawback of trekking the circuit in May is the crowded trails and accommodations. If you prefer solitude, dealing with such a crowd can be tiresome. Although there are sufficient accommodations, you may still struggle to find rooms during the tourist influx in the area.
Difficult Terrain
The trails and terrain are relatively drier in May as there is nearly no rainfall. However, the lower regions might receive sudden showers, making the trail wet and slippery. Moreover, the paths are comprised of deep gorges, high passes, and steep ascents and descents. Walking for long hours on such terrain can be physically taxing.
Altitude Sickness
The chances of altitude sickness increase above an altitude of 2500 m above sea level, as the air becomes thinner and the oxygen level decreases with increasing altitude. In the lower regions, the temperature in May is nearly equal to that in summer. Such a temperature can lead to dehydration, thereby increasing the risk of altitude sickness. The risk is also higher as the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you to an altitude of 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass).
Long Walking Hours
As mentioned above, the days are comparatively longer during May, with about 13 to 14 hours of daylight, which is both a boon and a curse. Since days are longer, people tend to reduce their trekking days by walking longer hours on a single day to save that extra time. In such cases, the chances of injuries and altitude sickness increase.
Weather and Temperature of Annapurna Circuit in May
May is the last month of the spring season and acts as a pre-monsoon month. As the monsoon/summer approaches Nepal, the temperatures in late May are relatively higher than in early May. The temperature in the lower plains can reach up to 30°C, which is the highest temperature it can get.
On the other hand, the lowest temperature falls below 0°C in regions like Throng La Pass. Nighttime is as chilly as winter days. Since the monsoon is a few days away, the possibility of sudden rainfall in the Annapurna Circuit is also high, increasing the atmosphere’s humidity.
Below is the table comparing the approximate temperature in May in different regions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek:
Tips and Safety Measures for Annapurna Circuit Trek in May
Now that you have learned about the benefits and difficulties of trekking the Annapurna Circuit in May, here are some tips and safety measures you must take to mitigate the risks.
Separate a day or two for acclimatization, allowing your body to adapt to the low oxygen levels. This will significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
As temperatures exceed 15°C in May, your body will lose water concentration faster, affecting your endurance and performance. So, ensure that you drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. Also, electrolytes are taken to restore the lost minerals.
Your body needs to be physically fit since you will walk more than 6 to 7 hours daily. So, prepare for the trek by focusing on training your legs, hearts, and longs.
Take the guides and porters with you. A guide will help you navigate and ensure your safety. A porter, on the other hand, will carry your load, allowing you to trek freely.
Since there are more daylight hours in May, don’t increase your trekking hours. Instead, make the itinerary after assessing the trekking distance and your physical condition. Also, start early to avoid the afternoon heat. By doing so, you can have plenty of rest time as well.
Annapurna Circuit in May attracts a large crowd, resulting in packed accommodations. You may not find the accommodation of your choice, so always book your rooms in advance.
Packing List for Annapurna Circuit Trek in May
The packing list for the Annapurna Circuit trek in May doesn’t vary drastically from other months. However, you have to be prepared for various climatic zones. For instance, the overall temperatures of the Annapurna Circuit in May are moderate, so you don’t need to carry multiple insulated layers. Below is the packing list:
Includes basic meds for altitude, pain relief, and blisters
Conclusion
In conclusion, trekking the Annapurna Circuit in May offers a comfortable temperature for navigating the rugged trails. Trekking this month comes with the benefits of ample resting times, clear views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and traversing through the blooming rhododendron forest. However, it is not as easy as it sounds. Challenges such as altitude sickness, inadequate accommodations, and prolonged walking hours persist. You can manage such difficulties through exercises, acclimatization, proper nutrition, and adequate rest.
FAQs
What is the hardest part of the whole Annapurna Circuit Trekking?
There are no technical difficulties while trekking to Annapurna Circuit. However, trekkers with different physical strength and mental endurance can find other routes difficult. Likewise, major trekkers feel that crossing Thorong La Pass is challenging.
Do I need a guide to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, if you are an international trekker, you must have a guide as per new regulations from the Nepal Tourism Board. Moreover, having a guide by your side will help enhance your trekking journey with proper route navigation and essential information about the region’s history, culture, and people.
Which city is known as the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit?
Usually, Pokhara is considered the getaway to the Annapurna Circuit because you must arrive at Pokhara before starting any trek in the Annapurna Region.
Is the trail to Annapurna Circuit crowded?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s mainstream trekking routes, so the trails are usually crowded during the peak seasons.
What level of physical fitness and strength is required for the Annapurna circuit trek in May?
You will need a basic level of physical fitness to trek the Annapurna circuit. However, some training in physical strength and experience in higher-altitude trekking will always be beneficial.
My name is Puru (Purushottam Thapaliya). Since completing the Government Guide Training from Nepal’s Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (KEEP and HRA), I have been a specialist in mountain trekking and peak climbing. With specific expertise in the Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan regions, I have now been a trekking guide and tour operator in Nepal, and across the Himalayas, since 2012.
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
