Which is the best time To trek Annapurna circuit?

best time to trek Annapurna Circuit

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is Spring before the Monsoon starts and autumn after the monsoon. Both seasons are regarded as the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit, as these seasons provide clear skies, pleasant weather, and good trekking conditions.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a world-famous trekking journey in Nepal’s beautiful Himalayas. The famous trek takes you through beautiful valleys, attractive villages, dense forests, and high mountains, providing an amazing experience.

 The Annapurna Circuit is regarded as one of the world’s greatest treks, combining stunning natural beauty with rich cultural experiences. The trek provides amazing views of Annapurna I-II-III-IV, Manaslu, Macchapuchare, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek provides the experience of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Tilicho Lake, Khayer, and Ice Lakes, and the world’s highest accessible pass, Thorong La Pass. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek Facts

  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
  • Highest Elevation: 5416m of Thorong La Pass
  • Duration: 12 to 22 days( depending on route)
  • Starting Point: Dharapani at an elevation of 1100m
  • Accommodation: Tea house
  • Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and trekkers Information Management System(TIMS card)
  • Total Distance: 230 km( depends upon starting and ending points)
  • Finishing Point: Nayapul/Jomsom/ Muktinath
  • Best Seasons: Autumn and Spring

Is Spring the Best Time To Trek Annapurna Circuit?

One of the best times to trek in Annapurna Circuit is in the spring, as the spring season provides a beautiful trek that provides the Himalayas beauty. 

Spring, from March to May, is one of the best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit. The route is full of blossoming rhododendron forests, full greenery, and a pleasant environment, providing an unforgettable experience for trekkers from around the world.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In March

Among the different months to start the Annapurna Circuit trek, March is regarded as the best time to trek the Annapurna circuit. You will get a once-in-a-lifetime experience by trekking the Annapurna Circuit in March.

 Because of the blooming rhododendron forests, clear mountain views, good weather, and unique cultural experiences, You will have a wonderful trek in Annapurna Circuit during March. 

March provides the perfect combination of warmth and natural beauty, making it a wonderful and best time to trek in the Annapurna Circuit.

The temperature during March in Annapurna Circuit is 20-26 degrees Celsius during the day and below -10 degrees Celsius during the night and at high altitudes.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In April

April is another best time to trek Annapurna Circuit Trek, April provides a clear and stunning view of the mountains. April is the perfect time for trekking because of the moderate spring weather and fewer changes in the weather. 

The Annapurna circuit in April is visited by around 15% of visitors out of the total trekkers trekking in the Annapurna circuit each year. 

Annapurna Circuit trek includes visits to tea houses, ethnic groups with their languages and traditions, and stunning Mountains, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In May

Because of the pleasant and constant weather, May is the best time to trek in Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trek provides you with an opportunity to explore mountainside cultures and different communities. 

The stunning 360-degree view of Mount Annapurna is especially memorable for you. The Annapurna Circuit trek offers a clear season without fear of rain or weather changes and offers a different view. 

The natural beauty clear sky, and beautiful environment make the journey enjoyable.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Temperature In Spring

S.NMonthMinimum TemperatureMaximum Temperature
1March-10°C26°C
2April-4°C20°C
3May15°C31°C

Is Autumn the Best Time To Trek Annapurna Circuit?

While every season has its charm, trekking in autumn has a different attraction. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in September, October, and November is a journey through an amazing environment.

 The amazing autumn colors, clear mountain views, easy paths, and unique cultural interaction make it an unforgettable adventure for you. Autumn provides a perfect combination of pleasant and natural beauty, being the best time to trek in Annapurna Circuit. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek In September

September is the peak season for trekking in Annapurna Circuit, known for its stable weather conditions and favorable atmospheric conditions.

 The region has just started getting warmer. September provides an amazing atmosphere, clear skies, and comfortable weather, which makes it the best time to trek in Annapurna Circuit and enjoy nature. 

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in September provides you to experience nature’s post-monsoon beauty. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek In October

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in October provides an unforgettable journey with bright autumn colors, clear mountain views, and peaceful routes.

 This season offers better views of mountains including Mount Annapurna, Mount Dhaulagiri, and Mount Machhapuchhre, with less cloudy weather. This makes October the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit.

 Trekkers can learn about different mountainside cultures and participate in Nepal’s major festivals, including Dashain and Tihar, as these festivals fall in the October season. October is the best time to trek in Annapurna Circuit, as it is the peak season for travelers.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In November

In November, the Annapurna Circuit Trek provides a wonderful experience with clear skies and no clouds. The trek is suitable during November, as the region’s biodiversity is rich. 

November is the best time to trek the Annapurna circuit because it is a peak season for trekking in Nepal, so you will be able to see many trekkers on your route. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in November is an experience of enjoying the beauty of autumn. 

The Autumn colors, clear mountain views, and cultural experience make the autumn best time to trek in Annapurna Circuit an unforgettable journey.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Temperature In Autumn

S.NMonthMinimum TemperatureMaximum Temperature
1September5°C20°C
2October4°C17°C
3November7°C25°C

Is Summer the Best Time To Trek Annapurna Circuit?

Rainfall is always expected in Summer and not regarded as a good time to trek in Annapurna Circuit. As Summer is also known as Monsoon season, rainfalls occur frequently; thus, routes become slippery, wet, and muddy.

 There is a high chance of landslides, and mosquitoes, Leeches, and bugs are seen everywhere. As summer is not regarded as the best season, the weather will be hot, not suitable. 

There are some advantages to trekking during summer in Annapurna Circuit. The advantages include less crowd, a less expensive teahouse, a budget-friendly trekking package, and a peaceful environment. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek In June

June is the beginning of the monsoon season in Nepal, and while it brings a beautiful green environment, it also brings occasional heavy rainfall. 

If you prefer a peaceful experience and want to see the monsoon beauty, then trekking in June can be good. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in June is an opportunity to see the monsoon beauty.

 The green environment, peaceful route, and cultural interaction make an unforgettable adventure for you if you are seeking a new experiment. With proper preparation and safety measures, June can be a good time to enjoy the looks of the Annapurna region.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In July

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in July provides greenery, a beautiful environment, and stunning waterfalls. 

As July is the off-season season, that’s why it allows for a peaceful, uncrowded experience, allowing you to connect with nature. As July is monsoon season, it brings challenges such as slippery routes, leeches, and muddy routes. 

Despite its challenges, the monsoon season provides opportunities for cultural interaction, allowing you to engage with local communities, see agricultural activities, and participate in cultural festivals.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In August

 As August falls in the monsoon season, the chances of heavy rainfall, especially in the lower region, are faced. Due to weather challenges, most trekkers want to avoid this month. 

But if you enjoy the rain, then the Annapurna Base Camp climb during the August season might be for you. As August is the ending month of monsoon, It frequently rains. Thus you’ll feel a little cold.

 You should be aware that the routes will be slippery, and landslides may occur. August is a challenging off-season trek in Annapurna Circuit, which is why Trekking in August requires proper physical preparation.

Annapurna Circuit Temperature In Summer

S.NMonthMinimum TemperatureMaximum Temperature
1June-4°C30°C
2July4°C17°C
3August4°C18°C

Is Winter the Best Time To Trek Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna region is at cold and freezing temperatures during the winter months, from December to February. The weather conditions vary with altitude, and an important aspect of trekking during this season is heavy snowfall, making the region winterland. 

Due to heavy snowfall, the snow blocks the route, which makes the route slippery. Trekking in January and February is almost impossible due to challenging conditions. Early December is the most suitable time for winter trekking. 

It’s essential to be aware of the various risks, such as injuries, accidents, and delays, especially during January and February. 

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in winter is not recommended. For a more comfortable and safe journey, the peak seasons are recommended.

Annapurna Trek In December

In December, the weather is good for lower-altitude routes, but higher-altitude regions experience snowfall, which makes the route slippery and challenging. 

 But, some trekkers may also find the experience adventurous and fun. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is difficult for first-time trekkers as it passes through rocks in the Annapurna area. 

The trek requires strength, stamina, and training. It is highly risky to trek in late December, and there are high chances of injuries and accidents. Therefore, it is not recommended to trek the Annapurna Circuit in December.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In January

 The temperature in the higher altitudes of the Annapurna Circuit during January can drop frequently and reach below minus degrees during the night. 

Trekking in the Annapurna Circuit in January can be an extraordinary adventure if you are seeking a unique and less crowded experience. 

But you must be prepared for the challenges of the cold weather, snow-covered routes, and limited facilities. However, it is not recommended to trek during January as it is risky.

Annapurna Circuit Trek In February

With perfect snow covering the Annapurna region in February, Nepal’s winter season provides a unique and beautiful trekking experience. 

Snowy views, ice waterfalls, and clear blue skies change the region into a winter paradise. Although the Annapurna area can be cold and difficult, the days are often bright and pleasant for trekking.

 Trekkers should be prepared for snowy and slippery land and use appropriate equipment for a comfortable trek. Although February provides pleasant weather, it is not very suitable to trek in Annapurna Circuit during February. 

Annapurna Circuit Temperature In Winter

S.NMonthMinimum TemperatureMaximum Temperature
1December-5°C10°C
2January-10°C10°C
3February-14°C-1°C

Anapurna Circuit Trek Preparation 

  • Choose the right season to trek
  • Be physically and mentally strong
  • Pack essential gear and equipment
  • Have the necessary permit and document
  • Hire a guide and porter
  • have safety and health precautions
  • Choose a reputable Travel agency
  • Maintain hydration in your body

FAQ

What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?

The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), but it also depends on your personal choice.

Is trekking during monsoon season recommended?

Trekking during the monsoon season is not generally recommended due to heavy rainfall and slippery routes.

Is altitude sickness a concern during the trek?

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern during high-altitude treks. Proper acclimatization is essential to minimize the risk.

Final Word

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit depends on your personal choice and the experiences you want. Spring and autumn are the best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit for most trekkers, with stable weather, stunning views, and cultural attractions.

 But each season has its unique charm and challenges, and adventurous people may find joy in trekking during the winter or exploring the traditional and cultural details during the monsoon.

Puru Founder of My Everest Trip

Puru Thapaliya

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.