Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trekking: Weather, Seasons & Trail Conditions

Annapurna Circuit trek is in the bucket list of all the passionate mountain trekkers looking for adventure. If you are among the adventurers trying to complete all the trekking routes in Nepal including the Annapurna Circuit trekking, then you’ve come to the right blog. This blog aims to help you know everything about the best time for Annapurna Circuit trekking, best weather, climate, gears and tips for making the 230 km circuit easier. However, the entire 230 km route is recommended only for professional trekkers, and the mountain climbers, moderate level trekkers and general trekkers often choose the short 160 km route to complete the entire Annapurna Circuit trekking.

Overview of Annapurna Circuit Weather

The ABC Circuit Trek introduces the professional and first-time trekkers to the dramatically changing weather of the Himalayan regions. The climate conditions change at a moment's notice because of the difference in altitude here. The Lower regions of Annapurna Circuit trekking locations like Besisahar and Chame are relatively warm. Whereas the high-altitude areas of Annapurna region like Manang and Thorong La Pass are cold during the entire year. Nepal’s climate is generally divided into four seasons regardless of the Trekking routes you choose. Whether you choose Everest base camp trek, Langtang Valley trek or any popular trek, the season for trek in Nepal is divided into spring, summer (monsoon), autumn, and winter.

Trekkers like you need to know the weather directly impacts the conditions on the trail, visibility of the mountain, and availability of rooms in the lodges. The safety of the routes is highly dependent on the trekking season you choose for high mountain passes like Thorong La on Annapurna Circuit Trek and three passes trek on the Everest route. Thus, Annapurna Circuit Trek's best time for travel is highly dependent on the weather and travellers are suggested to take the trek during Spring and Autumn Season.

Spring Season (March to May): Blooming Trails & Pleasant Weather

The best season to travel to Annapurna circuit trek is the Spring Season of Nepal. It is the best time for Annapurna Circuit trekking, especially for trekkers who love to enjoy nature in calm sunny weather. The calm weather in the spring also offers the following benefits.

1. Weather & Trail Conditions

• The daytime temperatures are comfortable and stay between 10°C to 20°C at lower altitude.

• The higher altitudes are cool and bearable during this season offering a fully crystal-clear view of the mountain.

• The trail in this season is generally dry making it easy to walk. The trail can be slippery during winter and monsoon season making it difficult to complete the trek.

2. Why Trek in Spring?

• We suggest you take the Annapurna circuit trek in spring because forests on the trail are colourful with wild blooming flowers.

• The daylight time in the spring is longer, making the trekking easier. In other seasons like winter, the sun sets down quickly adding extra days to your travel itinerary.

• Stable weather offers trekkers a complete panorama view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and Nigiri in March and April.

3. Things to Consider

• We have seen travellers face hazy weather and occasional pre-monsoon showers in late spring. So, you should plan to complete the trek in early to mid-spring.

• However, popular teahouses and lodges can fill quickly in early and mid-spring. If you are wishing to complete the Annapurna circuit trek in spring then advance booking is recommended.

• Spring is the best season for photographers, nature lovers, and trekkers seeking pleasant trekking conditions without crowds.

Autumn Season (September to November): Best Overall Trekking Season

Autumn is widely regarded as the best season for Annapurna Circuit Trek and it is the time of the year when trekking trails in this region are packed with people. You’ll often find clearer skies for viewing and clicking photos of the mountain during this time of the year. In addition to clear sky, trekking to Annapurna in this season has following benefits:

i) Weather & Trail Conditions

• The bright blue and clear sky after the monsoon provide you a chance to see clear views of the mountain.

• The daytime temperatures are mildly warm, and it lies in the range of 12°C to 18°C. However, the nights at high altitude are cold during this season as cold winter comes near each day.

• The trails are dry, stable, safe and perfect for crossing Thorong La Pass, the highest point on the circuit trek.

ii) Why Trek in Autumn?

• The weather is consistent and great for viewing Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges.

• This is the best time for first-time high-altitude trekkers in comparison to the spring season when snow is melting.

iii) Things to Consider

• The trails and teahouses are busiest during this season, especially in the month of October.

• We have seen the prices for guides and accommodation increase during the peak season of Autumn. So, we recommend you book with us early for a discounted price before choosing to trek in the Autumn Season.

Table: Quick Seasonal Comparison

Packing Tips for Annapurna Circuit Trekking

We have often seen trekkers pay additional prices for their luggage or hire additional porters because they overpacked for the trek. Packing properly can save you extra cost and save you from carrying heavy loads on your back during the long walking period of the trek. You should pack only essential items and light, pack the following to avoid overpacking.

Trail Conditions and Safety Tips

The Annapurna Circuit trail conditions as explained in this blog are different according to season. In spring and autumn, the paths are well-maintained and easy to navigate but there are important safety conditions you should follow:

• Acclimatization: You need to plan rest days in your itinerary to avoid common high-altitude problems like altitude sickness, especially in high elevation crossing points like the Thorong La Pass.

• Permits: You need to obtain the TIMS card and ACAP permit in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These permits allow army/police posts to record the exact location of your last entry or exit. While uncommon, the entry and exit details are used for rescue missions in unfortunate accidents by authorities.

• Hydration: Make sure you carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets to stay hydrated to battle altitude sickness and any stomach upsets on the trail.

Conclusion

The best time for Annapurna Circuit trekking is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September- November). During these times of the year the weather conditions are stable, trails are safe, and mountain views are at their best for travellers. Book your Annapurna circuit trek journey with Mountain Delights today for a guaranteed room booking at the teahouse lodge in this peak trekking season.