Choosing the best time for the Annapurna Circuit trek directly affects safety, scenery, comfort, and overall experience because this route crosses high mountain passes, deep valleys, and multiple climate zones. Weather conditions change sharply with altitude, and each season creates a very different trekking experience.

The Annapurna Circuit is not a single-climate trek. It begins in low subtropical valleys, climbs into alpine terrain, and reaches its highest point at Thorong La Pass above 5,400 meters. Because of this variation, the right timing determines trail conditions, visibility, temperature, crowd levels, and even whether the pass can be crossed safely.

This guide provides a clear explanation of the best time for the Annapurna Circuit trek. It covers seasons, monthly conditions, costs, crowd patterns, safety factors, and recommendations based on trekking goals. The aim is to help trekkers choose the right period with confidence and realistic expectations.

What Is the Best Time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek Overall?

The best time for Annapurna Circuit trek is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November because these periods offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and safer conditions at high altitude.

Spring brings mild temperatures, blooming forests, and longer daylight hours. Autumn delivers crisp air, dry trails, and the clearest views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges. Both seasons allow a safe crossing of Thorong La Pass in most years.

Trekkers can hike the circuit in other seasons, but winter and monsoon demand higher tolerance for cold, snow, rain, or trail disruptions.

How High Does the Circuit Go?

The Annapurna Circuit reaches its highest point at Thorong La Pass, which sits at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level. The trek starts in low river valleys around 800–1,000 meters and gradually climbs through subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain deserts.

Altitude affects both temperature and oxygen levels, so proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Most trekkers spend several days in Manang district or nearby villages to adjust before attempting the pass. Crossing Thorong La offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making it the highlight of the circuit for many hikers.

Key Points

• Lowest point: ~800 meters in Besisahar
• Highest point: 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass
• Acclimatization: Recommended 2–3 days at Manang or Thorong Phedi
• Experience: High-altitude trekking experience or careful preparation is important

This section helps trekkers understand the elevation challenge and plan their trek safely.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek by Season

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most reliable periods for trekking the Annapurna Circuit because temperatures remain moderate and weather patterns stay predictable.

Lower regions such as Besisahar and Chame feel warm during the day, while higher villages like Manang experience cool but comfortable conditions. Snow gradually melts on higher sections, making Thorong La Pass more accessible by late March and April.

Rhododendron forests bloom across lower and mid elevations, adding color to the trail. Skies remain mostly clear in the mornings, with clouds forming later in the day.

Spring trekking conditions

• Day temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes
• Night temperatures drop below freezing above 4,000 meters
• Stable trail conditions with limited snow by mid season
• Long daylight hours

Crowds and accommodation
Spring attracts many trekkers, especially in April. Lodges remain busy in Manang and Thorong Phedi. Early booking improves comfort during peak weeks.

Who should trek in spring

• First time high altitude trekkers
• Photographers seeking greenery and flowers
• Trekkers who prefer moderate temperatures

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn stands as the most popular and dependable time for Annapurna Circuit trek due to clear skies and dry trails after the monsoon ends.

Rain cleans dust from the air, producing sharp mountain views. Temperatures remain cool but stable, especially in October. Thorong La Pass sees minimal snow during early and mid autumn.

Festivals such as Dashain and Tihar bring cultural depth to villages along the route.

Autumn trekking conditions

• Clear visibility throughout the day
• Dry and stable trails
• Cold mornings and evenings at high altitude
• Minimal weather disruptions

Crowds and accommodation
October sees the highest number of trekkers. Lodges fill quickly in popular stops. Early starts help avoid congestion on the pass crossing day.

Who should trek in autumn

• Trekkers focused on mountain views
• Those seeking the safest pass crossing
• Cultural travelers interested in local festivals

Winter Season (December to February)

Winter trekking on the Annapurna Circuit offers solitude and dramatic landscapes but requires strong preparation and flexibility.

Heavy snowfall can block Thorong La Pass, especially in January and February. Temperatures drop sharply at night, and some lodges close in higher villages.

Clear days still occur, especially in December and early January, but cold conditions dominate.

Winter trekking conditions

• Day temperatures often below 5°C above 3,500 meters
• Night temperatures reach minus 15°C or lower
• Snow accumulation near the pass
• Short daylight hours

Crowds and accommodation
Few trekkers attempt the circuit in winter. Lower crowd levels make lodge availability easier, but limited services exist in remote areas.

Who should trek in winter

• Experienced trekkers with winter gear
• Those seeking solitude
• Trekkers comfortable with cold conditions

Summer and Monsoon Season (June to August)

Summer coincides with Nepal’s monsoon, bringing rain, humidity, and landslides in lower regions. However, the northern rain shadow areas near Manang and Mustang receive far less rainfall.

Clouds often block views in the afternoons. Leeches appear in forested sections below 2,500 meters.

Monsoon trekking conditions

• Heavy rain in lower valleys
• Slippery trails and occasional landslides
• Clearer weather north of Manang
• Warm temperatures at lower elevations

Crowds and accommodation
Very few trekkers visit during monsoon. Lodges remain open, and prices may drop slightly.

Who should trek in summer

• Budget trekkers
• Experienced trekkers familiar with monsoon conditions
• Those with flexible schedules

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek Month by Month

January

January offers clear skies but extreme cold at high altitude. Snow often blocks Thorong La Pass. Suitable only for strong trekkers with winter skills.

February

Conditions improve slightly toward late February, but snow remains unpredictable. Fewer crowds and quiet trails define this month.

March

March marks the start of spring trekking. Lower trails warm up, and snow begins to melt near the pass. Rhododendrons start blooming.

April

April delivers ideal trekking conditions with stable weather and colorful forests. This month attracts large crowds due to comfort and scenery.

May

May stays warm and dry, though haze may appear in the afternoons. Snow clears completely from most sections.

June

Monsoon begins. Trails become wet and slippery at lower altitudes. Northern sections stay drier.

July

Heavy rainfall affects access roads and forest trails. Leeches become common. Views remain limited.

August

Rain continues but slowly decreases toward the end of the month. Remote sections stay quiet and green.

September

September marks the transition from monsoon to autumn. Early weeks still see clouds, while late September improves significantly.

October

October is often considered the best single month for Annapurna Circuit trek. Clear skies, stable trails, and safe pass conditions dominate.

November

November stays dry and clear but grows colder at night. Late November may see light snow near Thorong La.

December

Early December offers crisp views and fewer trekkers. Snowfall increases later in the month.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek Based on Trekker Type

Different trekkers look for different outcomes on the Annapurna Circuit. Some want comfort and safety, while others prefer solitude or lower costs. Choosing the right season based on trekking style improves both safety and satisfaction.

First Time High Altitude Trekkers

Spring and autumn suit first time high altitude trekkers because weather patterns remain steady and trails stay well maintained. Daytime temperatures stay comfortable, and nights, although cold, remain manageable with standard trekking gear. Acclimatization works better during these seasons since extreme cold or heavy rain does not add extra stress to the body. Lodges operate fully, making food, rest, and medical help easier to access if needed.

Experienced Trekkers

Winter and monsoon seasons appeal to experienced trekkers who feel comfortable dealing with cold, snow, or rain. These periods test endurance and planning skills, especially near Thorong La Pass where conditions change quickly. Fewer trekkers on the trail allow greater privacy and a stronger sense of self reliance. Proper equipment, route awareness, and schedule flexibility remain essential during these months.

Budget Trekkers

Monsoon season and early winter reduce overall trekking costs because demand drops across the region. Lodges offer better room availability, and prices often fall compared to peak months. Flights to Nepal may also cost less during these periods. While weather challenges exist, careful planning allows budget focused trekkers to complete the circuit at a lower expense without compromising safety.

Photographers

Autumn suits photographers who want clear skies and sharp mountain views, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. Snow dusting on high peaks adds contrast and detail. Spring attracts photographers who enjoy forests filled with blooming rhododendrons and fresh greenery. Both seasons offer strong lighting conditions, though autumn provides more consistent visibility across the entire circuit.

Crowd Avoidance Seekers

Late November, early March, and winter months work best for trekkers who prefer quiet trails and fewer people at lodges. During these times, popular villages like Manang and Thorong Phedi feel calmer, allowing a slower and more personal trekking pace. Weather conditions remain manageable in early shoulder months, though temperatures drop at higher elevations.

Cultural Experience Seekers

Autumn provides the strongest cultural exposure along the Annapurna Circuit. Major festivals such as Dashain and Tihar bring families together in villages, creating a lively atmosphere. Trekkers witness traditional rituals, local food preparation, and community gatherings. These cultural moments add depth to the trekking experience beyond mountain scenery.

How Much Rain Does the Annapurna Range Receive?

The higher sections of the Annapurna Circuit lie in a rain shadow, meaning they are largely sheltered from the summer monsoon by the Annapurna Massif. As a result, the upper trail remains relatively dry, making it technically accessible throughout the year in terms of rainfall.

However, reaching these high areas requires trekking through the temperate zone, which receives heavy monsoon rain. July and August are the wettest months, while March, June, and September also see significant precipitation. Trekkers need to consider both rainfall and temperature when planning the trek, as lower regions may be slippery or flooded even if the high passes remain dry.

Weather and Temperature by Altitude

Weather and temperature on the Annapurna Circuit change noticeably with altitude because the trail climbs from warm river valleys to high alpine terrain within a short distance. Lower elevations feel mild and pleasant, while temperatures drop sharply above 3,500 meters, especially after sunset. Wind exposure and cloud cover further affect how cold it feels, particularly near Thorong La Pass.

Altitude Zone	Day Temperature	Night Temperature
800 to 2,000 m	15°C to 25°C	5°C to 10°C
2,000 to 3,500 m	10°C to 18°C	0°C to 5°C
3,500 to 5,000 m	5°C to 12°C	minus 5°C to minus 15°C
Thorong La Pass	minus 5°C to 5°C	below minus 20°C

Temperature varies by season, wind strength, and cloud cover.

Rainfall, Snowfall, and Natural Risks

Rainfall, snowfall, and natural risks play a major role in determining trail safety on the Annapurna Circuit because the route passes through steep valleys and high mountain terrain. During the monsoon months from June to August, heavy rain increases the risk of landslides, especially in forested and road-affected sections below 3,000 meters. River crossings may also become more difficult after continuous rainfall.

Snowfall becomes the main concern from December to February, particularly around Thorong La Pass, where deep snow can block the route or make crossing unsafe. Avalanches may occur after fresh snowfall or during sudden temperature rises, especially on exposed slopes. Trekkers should follow local advice, check weather conditions regularly, and remain flexible with rest days or route adjustments to reduce risk.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek for Cost and Budget

Cost and budget planning depend heavily on the trekking season because demand changes throughout the year on the Annapurna Circuit. During spring and autumn, high numbers of trekkers increase the cost of flights to Nepal, and lodges along the route often charge higher room rates due to limited availability. Popular villages may also require advance bookings during peak weeks.

Monsoon and winter seasons bring fewer trekkers, which lowers overall expenses. Lodges usually have plenty of space and may offer reduced prices for rooms and meals. Flights can also be cheaper during these months, making them suitable for trekkers who want to complete the circuit with a smaller budget while accepting tougher weather conditions.

Festivals and Cultural Timing

Festivals and cultural events influence the atmosphere of the Annapurna Circuit, offering trekkers a chance to experience local life beyond the mountains.

Autumn Festivals (September to November)

• Dashain: The biggest Nepali festival, featuring family gatherings, blessings from elders, and traditional feasts.
• Tihar: Known as the festival of lights, villages are decorated, and rituals honor animals, gods, and family members.
• Yartung Mela: A traditional festival celebrated in Mustang with horse races, cultural performances, and local rituals.
• Local rituals and celebrations: Villagers perform prayers, light butter lamps, and host community events along the trail.

Spring Festivals (March to May)

• Nepali New Year (Baisakh): Celebrated in some regions with local dances, songs, and small ceremonies.
• Tamu Lhosar: The Gurung community’s New Year celebration, featuring traditional music, dances, and local food.
• Farming-related festivals: Communities celebrate planting seasons with offerings and local rituals.

These festivals provide trekkers with opportunities to observe cultural traditions, visit decorated homes, and engage with local communities while trekking.

Packing Based on the Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Packing for the Annapurna Circuit should match the season because weather conditions change significantly with altitude and time of year. Proper clothing and equipment improve comfort, protect against cold or rain, and reduce the risk of illness or injury. Choosing the right gear also helps manage weight, which becomes important during long walking days and high altitude climbs.

Spring and Autumn

• Layered clothing
• Lightweight down jacket
• Trekking boots
• Sleeping bag rated to minus 10°C

Winter

• Heavy down jacket
• Insulated gloves
• Thermal layers
• Snow gaiters

Monsoon

• Waterproof jacket
• Quick-drying clothes
• Leech socks
• Trekking poles

Final Recommendation

The best time for the Annapurna Circuit trek depends on weather preference, trekking experience, and personal goals. Spring and autumn remain the safest and most rewarding choices for most trekkers. Winter and monsoon offer unique experiences for those prepared for tougher conditions.

Careful timing ensures better safety, clearer views, and a more enjoyable journey across one of Nepal’s most varied trekking routes.

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