Annapurna Circuit Weather Patterns: When to Trek and When to Avoid
Trekking in Nepal is a one-of-a-kind Himalayan adventure that leads you to diverse climatic zones and varied regions, from lowlands to high elevations, while Nepal has four seasonal variations: spring, autumn, winter, and summer (monsoon). The best time to visit the Himalayas stands out to be Spring and Autumn. While other regional areas, such as rain shadow territory, or low elevation treks below 3000 meters, can be easily accessible even at off-season time, monsoon and winter, you must consider, right time for this iconic Annapurna Circuit Trail, as it leads you through some of the intense terrains, from woodlands to rugged, rocky, harsh trails.
The ideal seasons for the Annapurna Circuit stay the same as any other high altitude journey, which is Spring, starting from March till the end of May, and Autumn, which starts from early September and lasts till the beginning of November. During this span of the year, the temperature usually ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius, at lower elevations below 4000 metres, whereas, might drop to 0 to -5 °C, near the pass, or you can say after crossing the mid elevation range.
Coming after the end of the monsoon and winter, when there is a high level of precipitation, it clears the dusty air, offering unhindered views of mountains and landscapes, whereas with mere or zero chances of rainfall, due to which the route becomes dry, and easy to navigate through without being slippery, or any risk of natural hazardous, which usually, happens during heavy rainfall times.
While the spring season thrives beautifully, with the blooming red rhododendrons and the fragrance of pines and oaks, the autumn season lets you experience the boisterous festival celebrations as the major festival Dashain and Tihar falls within this span of the year.
On the other hand, the Annapurna Circuit Trek weather during the off-season is completely bizarre, with the heavy level of rain and snowfall, making the route completely challenging to navigate, and cold nights with below -5 degrees Celsius, demanding prior high altitude experience. and extra gears and equipment.
However, between two off-seasons of winter and monsoon, we highly recommend you avoid the monsoon season (starting from June, July and August), as due to the high rainfall, in the lower elevation, the route gets muddy, slippery, and full of mosquitoes, at the tea houses as well, and moving to the upper terrains, bring heavy snow fall, which might disrupt or elongate the trek, due to the blocakge to the high mountain pass of Thorung La, whereas, the vista of surrounding remains questionable, due to gloominess, and cloudy surroundings.
Meanwhile, if your time doesn't fit during peak season times, then you can opt for the winter season in December, January, and February, for the Annapurna circuit, as even though the trailhead is strenuous to navigate, the temperature drops below -10 °C at night, the views are usually clear, and even more captivating, covered with white snow. Experienced hikers, having prior experience of high altitude adventure, can undoubtedly choose any span of the year, but must consider proper preparations, planning, and proper gear for all varied seasons, as the weather and climate fluctuate insanely.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature: Monthly Breakdown
January
Annapurna Circuit in January marks the coldest season of the year, where the weather and climatic changes remain unpredictable and a heavy level of snowfall, at higher elevations, making the terrains challenging to navigate through. The daytime temperature usually ranges from 5 to 14°C, in lowland at the day, which is perfect for a long-duration hike, offering chill humidity, without draining you out mentally and physically, whereas the nighttime temperature drops to 0°C and might even touch -5°C, which is still manageable, with the warm clothing layers, and heating of the dining area as per our personal experience and other hikers review.
Despite that, while ascending higher beyond 4000 meters, the temperature takes an instant drop to -15 to -20°C, with heavy snowfall, making the trekking route blocked with snow pathways and slippery sections. Due to the high level of precipitation, at many en route points, you must navigate with careful caution from natural hazards conditions like avalanches, and wear proper footwear, to avoid frostbite and easily ascend via the snowy trailhead.
Keeping aside the cons and difficulty aspects, the sky remains clear, with the highly towering mountains and surrounding landscapes, covered with white snowy frost, which seems like a paradise, straight out of a fairytale. The trekking route remains crowd-free, with less number of hikers, for instance, 1/5th of the regular season - a haven for enthusiastic hikers, and a realm of peace for lone seekers, connecting you with nature more deeply.
However, the unavailability of a properly well-facilitated tea house, easy access to high passes, challenging icy and slippery pathways, and rapid fluctuations in the climatic conditions, demand trekkers to be physically prepared, mentally strong, and carry all the essential packing items, with required gears like crampons, sleeping bags, etc.
Tips: Make sure to set 1 contingency (buffer day) at least, as the route to the high pass might get blocked in the winter, due to frequent high snowfall, and consider packing the gear that suits adequately, in cold temperatures, especially at high elevation.
February
Comparatively, the month of February is not as unbearably cold as January; in fact, it marks the end (conclusion), of winter, and you can experience a slight perk of the springtime at the end of the month. However, February also tends to be one of the most unpredictable seasons, with the instant transition of the humidity as well, with a chance of rainfall, in the lower lands as well. The daytime temperature generally starts to range from 10 to 18°C, and takes a rapid drop to 0°C, and sometimes, even lower, whereas at the higher altitude, the temperature massively drops to -10 °C to - 20 °C, with high snowfall, and cold nights, so consider wearing the gear accordingly and stay warm, with proper layerings.
Despite all the disadvantages, many advantages motivate the trekkers to proceed with the trek further, and enlist the trip in the bucket list, during February, such as clear, snowy-capped peaks, in the blue sky, towering beautifully, and the quieter trailheads, giving you peace of mind, and get the best panoramic vista from several iconic viewpoints. The route, in contrast to other winter times, is also safe to undertake, as the snowy pathways get slowly cleared out with sunny days, with warm and cozy humidity, with the surrounding landscapes, draped in snow, without any fog.
One of the best parts is, the accommodations get reopened during February, where you can get multiple options to choose the well-equipped ones at a lower price and single bedding due to a few hikers, and it lets you connect with the local cultures, with detailed insights into their daily lifestyle and festival celebrations. Nonetheless, considering the Annapurna Circuit Trek in February is perfect for those who want quieter terrains, with a great deal of offers in bookings cost, and want to push their limits and ace new heights with enjoyable snowfall, yet not too harsh climatic conditions.
Tips: Consider packing the gears, that suits the moderate temperature which means summer clothings as well, as this time marks as the transition from winter to spring season, the day time humidity might remain hot, with high humidity (just in case), whereas, the temperature at night is expected to remain cold below 0 to -15 degree celsius, hence, winter gears are crucial at the same time.
March
March stands out as the beginning of the spring season that finally welcomes the trekkers across the globe, after the conclusion of the winter season, where the temperature starts to warm up, with longer sunny days at day. Spring marks the new beginning and the span of the year, where the vibrant blooming flowers of rhododendrons flourish in the green forest and landscapes, with a chance to spot some of the rare migrating Himalayan birds and species.
The weather and climate in the Annapurna circuit usually remain stable, with zero possibility of rainfall, with the fresh air, as it comes right after the end of winter, which still brings a chill humidity, and unhindered views of Himalayan peaks and landscapes, along with the well-defined trailheads. On the other hand, the temperature usually ranges from 8 °C to 14 °C, in the mid region, during the daytime, and might fall to -5 to -8 degrees Celsius at nighttime, in higher elevations, which is moderate, considering it as a high altitude trek. However, trekkers must be physically, mentally prepared against the cold weather at high elevation near the pass of Throung La, and ensure their packing is adequate.
Annapurna Circuit Trek in March suits all kinds of hikers, due to the stable weather conditions and dry trekking trailheads, offering a safe ascent and the captivating views that accompany you in each stride. The starting phase of the spring season, March, also suits the individuals who are short on time and looking forward to a short Annapurna Circuit Trek, as there is a mere chance of rain or snowfall, and rewards you with the best possible surrounding views and experiences.
Tips: As, this season, tends to be the starting time, of the ideal spring season, it is highly suggested to make pre bookings, in advance, to get the best lodges and bedding configuration. At the same time; advance booking also ensures to grab the best early booking deals, from 5 to 10% off, so, if possible, consider opting pre bookings prior to atleast a month.
April
April is one of the busiest and best seasons for the Annapurna circuit, where the days are generally warm, and nights are chill, offering a mild humidity with cool air, to undertake a long-duration hike, and cozy, with comfortable nights, to settle in. The temperature usually ranges from approximately 16 to 20 degrees Celsius during the day, in lower altitudes, and doesn't fall below -5 °C at night, at higher elevations over 4000 meters, which stands out to be perfect timing for the Himalayan adventure.
As this month basically clears out the heavy snowy pathways, and also brings the clear air with freshness, you can enjoy the 360-degree panoramic views of the Annapurna massif in each stride, without worrying about the rain or snowfall.
By far, during April, the lush green valley gets fully covered with red rhododendrons, in the Manang district, whereas the view of the apple orchards, while making your way to Jomsom (Mustang region), offers a chill over the body, with the heavenly, colorful views just behind the rugged Tibetan landscapes. Also, on the other hand, the trekking trail usually remains crowded, with a huge no. of trekkers in flow, where you can get an insight and learn about other fellow trekkers, cultures, languages, and create new memories, friends, mingling with keen-minded people like you.
Pro Tips: Make sure, to be prepared for warm day temperature, and chill evenings, with cooler cold mornings, and ensure to layer clothings accordingly, to get adjusted to frequent temperatures at high altitudes.
May
May weather and temperature during the Annapurna Circuit Trek fluctuate insanely, because this span of the spring season marks the end of the spring season, and also, the beginning of the monsoon season, hence, the high elevation experiences the rapid changes and fluctuations in the season. The daytime temperature usually ranges from 12 to 22 degrees Celsius, at the daytime, whereas it might fall to 0 to -5 degrees Celsius at the higher elevation, and even go lower than -10 °C, near the Thorung La Pass.
While the beginning of May stands out to be the ideal time to venture out, with almost zero level of precipitation, whereas, till the end of May, there is a slight chance of rainfall, at lower elevation and snowfall, near the high passes, as the monsoon season starts to get kick in at the himalayas, however, still is manageable, with proper gears and clothing layerings. However, beginners should make sure to complete the trek till the last May, before the monsoon or summer times get started, and plan the itinerary wisely.
Due to the pre-monsoon, the trails get slippery in the lowlands, an instant increase in humidity in the lower regions; however, the clear views of the Himalayan peaks and landscapes, dotted with wild flowers, make the overall trip enjoyable and worth undertaking.
Pro Tips: If possible, try, to set your itinerary, on the beginning or mid of May, that ends, till the end of the month, to avoid the early monsoon (heavy rainfall and snowfall) times. Make sure to bring, the wind and rain protected jackets, and cover as due to the global warming, the monsoon might hit earlier.
June
June marks the first month of the summer or monsoon season in Nepal, where, along with the high humidity, the heavy rain and snowfall start to kick in at the Himalayas, while the lowlands of the region start to get warmer, the frequency of rainfall might be disturbing for trekkers to cross over the slippery terrains. In the lower elevation, you will basically have to settle in at the tea houses, in open landscapes, and forested areas, with the disturbing mosquitoes. In contrast, the trekking route becomes challenging to navigate due to the landslide-prone sections and leeches on the path.
The Annapurna Circuit weather and temperature during June highly fluctuate, while the daytime temperature usually ranges from 22 to 28 degrees Celsius, with heavy humidity, whereas it might drop to approximately 12 degrees Celsius at higher elevations, with a high level of snowfall. The accessibility to the Thorong La Pass usually gets blocked in mid-June, with no availability of tea houses and lodges along the trekking trail, which can disrupt your trip, or take an extra 2-3 days to cross over the high pass.
Nonetheless, someone planning the Annapurna Circuit Trek in June can surely make this trip successful, with proper customization of the itinerary, with a gradual pace, perfect for those who want to push their limits through hazardous situations and reach the high pass of 5416 meters. With the assistance and navigation of the licensed trekking guide, the trek is safe to undertake, despite weather challenges; however, proper preparation remains crucial.
June is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those who want to enjoy the lush green valleys, vegetation, and bright sunny days, and push their limits exploring the rich ecosystem and Himalayan biodiversity in peace without a heavy crowd; however, the views of mountains and landscapes remain questionable.
Consider, setting 1-2 buffer days, as sometimes, the accessibility to the high pass, gets closed, and do the pre bookings prior to 1-2 months, as the bookings for transportation, best lodges, and guides, must be managed beforehand.
July
July is the peak monsoon season, where frequent rainfall, in the lower altitude and heavy snowfall, at the high elevation is expected, with high humidity exceeding 28 to 30 degrees Celsius as well. This span of the monsoon season is the time when there are almost 1% of the hikers, than the peak season times, as the trekking route becomes wild strenuous to navigate, due to the continuous precipitation, and the views of the mountains and surroundings also get covered full of gloom and fogginess.
While the lower region of the Annapurna Circuit temperature range from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius, at nighttime it gets cool down to 5 degrees Celsius, thus, you must be prepared physically to proceed the long duration hike, on such frustrating sunny days. On the other hand, near the high pass, the climatic and weather situations fluctuate frequently. For instance, if one day the weather is perfectly fine, with no heavy snowfall, another day, the heavy continuous downpours arrive eventually, which might even frustrate the beginners.
The route to the high pass, also usually, gets blocked, or even if not blocked, due to the heavy snowy pathways, the cross over becomes challenging, and one hundred percent requires prior preparations and gear, like crampons, and best layerings. The only major highlights that encourage the hikers to proceed with the Annapurna Circuit Trek in July are the smaller number of hikers along the trailhead, providing serenity and time to connect with nature; however, proper precautions are necessary for a safe and successful journey.
Note: Please, do not miss out bringing crampons, to pass through the high mountain passes, or the route over 4000 m, as the heavy snowfall, makes the pathway filled with snow blocks, making the trip challenging.
August
August stands out to be the conclusion of the monsoon season on the Annapurna Circuit trail, where the precipitation level usually becomes low, compared to June and July; however, still, rainfall and snowfall are expected on the trekking route, but the major perk about this monsoon is that the views of Himalayan peaks get cleared out from the fog.
The weather and climatic conditions highly fluctuate, with unexpected challenges, such as heavy rainfall and snowfall, at the higher elevation, with cold nights. The lower lands usually remain muddy and slippery, full of leeches, due to the continuous shower, for 2 months, making the overall trekking difficult, whereas at the higher altitude above 4000 m, the snow drift makes the accessibility of the high pass of Thorung La questionable.
Despite all the hurdles, there are many attractions that you can expect at the end of the monsoon, such as the re-opening of the tea houses, and a smaller no. of trekkers, along the route, offering wide best lodges at lower cost, and connecting you with locals, with an insight into their daily livelihood, and culture.
The Annapurna Circuit temperature during August ranges from 18 to 24 °C in the lower region, whereas, expected to fall to 5 to 8 degrees Celsius, expected to fall to 0 °C to -5 °C, near the high pass, remaining still cold, just as the regular times. The overall difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek becomes more challenging due to heavy precipitation; however, with prior planning, research, and preparations, this season remains doable for everyone, where you can enjoy the cascading waterfalls, thriving wildflowers, lush green valleys, and the clearer views of the landscapes, than other monsoon times.
September
September marks the beginning of the Autumn season, along the Annapurna Circuit trail, where the route starts to see the enthusiastic hikers across the globe, with the dream of reaching the high pass of Thorong La and feeling this sense of accomplishment.
While the beginning of September still has the essence of post-monsoon, with a mere rainfall, along with the fluctuations of the weather and climate conditions, however, from mid-September (2 weeks after), the weather gets stable, with mild temperature, and less possibility of rain-snowfall, as monsoon concludes completely.
Due to the clear weather, the unobstructed clear vista of the Annapurna massif rewards you with its panoramic form, whereas the mild temperature range from 5 to 14 degrees Celsius, with chill day hike, offers an easy and comfortable hike, without draining you physically, which happens due to heavy sunlight. The night temperature usually falls to 0 to 5 degrees Celsius, whereas near the Thorung La Pass, it drops to -5 degrees Celsius, which is still manageable, and the best time to ascend as well, considering the fact that it is a high Himalayan adventure journey. However, to complete this trek smoothly, proper physical preparation, carrying essential packing gears, and clothing layerings considering all seasonal variations.
Nonetheless, the captivating views of the golden leaves decorating the lush green forest, with the panoramic views of the iconic mountains, throughout the journey, and the dry routes, while coming to an end in September, make the overall journey even more fascinating. Besides, the trekking route also remains less crowded in September, where you can enjoy the serene wander pristine land of the Annapurna region, with a safe trailhead.
Tips: If possible, set your itinerary starting from mid september, to avoid the post monsoon, slippery terrains and ascend with ease, along the dry route, where the 360 degree panoramic views of the snowcapped peaks, and wild flowers keeps you persistent, throughout the trip.
October
October stands out to be the peak season for Annapurna Circuit, where the weather and climate get stable, with zero level of precipitation and the clear panoramic surroundings of mountains and landscapes. During October, you can expect a very minimal level of precipitation, along the trailhead, and almost zero amount of snowfall, near Thorong La Pass, above 4000 meters, due to which the terrain remains dry, offering safe, long-hour walks, for straight 5-6 hours, with less humidity, offering a chill hike, and safe ascent over the high pass at the same time.
The temperature usually ranges from 14 to 18 degrees Celsius, at lower altitudes, with long hours day daylight, where you get to explore more out of the trailhead, without worrying about the darkness, which is perfect for such challenging yet diverse landscapes. Near the high pass, it drops to 0 degrees Celsius or -5, not below that, offering cozy nights to settle in, and perfect acclimatization time, avoiding the risk of altitude sickness or frostbite, which happens due to unbearable cold temperatures.
While trekking the Annapurna Circuit in October, you can even reach the famous Tilicho Lake and Throng La Pass, at the same time, by combining both adventures in 1 single itinerary, extending 2-3 additional days, which lets you cover the famous iconic destination in one, and affordable cost. Trekking in October allows you to enjoy the breathtaking vista of the natural landscapes, get an insight into the culture of the locals, by participating in the major festivals like Dashain and Tihar, and connect you other fellow hikers coming across the globe.
November
While November is still considered the autumn season, from mid to late November, the trailhead starts to get cold at night, and cooler days in daytime. During this time, the weather starts to get transformed into the perks of winter, with some amount of snowfall, near the high pass, whereas the temperature in the lower regions, remain stable, ranging from 10 to 12 degrees celsius, offering a chill hike, as it should, with the most beautiful vista of the himalayan peaks, with it's tip covered with white snow frosts.
As, higher as you ascend higher, the temperature drops to -5 to -15 degrees Celsius at night, hence, you must consider proper clothing layerings that suit both autumn and winter seasons. Annapurna Circuit Trek in November has a lower crowd level, with less amount of precipitation in the lowlands, with panoramic views of the Annapurna massif from some of the best Annapurna viewpoints, whereas one must consider proper planning and a fast-paced itinerary as the day is shorter.
If you are a beginner, then opting for rainshadow area treks, within the Annapurna region itself, will be a better option to avoid the heavy precipitation and challenging terrains such as Upper Mustang Trek or Nar Phu valley Trek, which are easily accessible even in winter times. without any risk of rain or snowfall.
If you are opting this trek during November, while being a beginner, then consider completing the trip, till the mid november, to avoid the cold temperature and heavy precipitation abover 4000 meters.
December
December marks the peak winter season on the Annapurna Circuit, where the trailhead becomes a complete nightmare due to the pathway being covered with snowy blockage and the freezing temperatures at nighttime. In short, this season is only suggested to those who have high elevation journey experience beforehand, and know how to pass through the challenging terrains, where the air is thin, and the weather is seriously unpredictable.
While the day temperature ranges from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, it offers a perfect time to navigate through the chill weather, without being tired of sweating and high levels of humidity, whereas the night temperature falls to -15 to -18 degrees Celsius, at high elevation, with pathways being covered with snow. The tea houses and lodges usually remain closed, and accessibility to the high pass of Thorong La might not be available if there is a heavy level of snowfall; hence, while considering this trek in December, it requires proper planning, a planned itinerary as per your pace, and packing with warm layerings and great equipment like trekking poles, crampons, and sleeping bag.
Nonetheless, despite such challenges, the major attractions such as peaceful trailheads, mountains draped in snow, thundering in the sky panoramically, and the hurdles, and a kick of success, after reaching the new height, captivate the hikers, to opt for Annapurna Circuit in December as well.
What to consider while trekking to the Annapurna Circuit in monsoon/summer?
- Make sure to set at least 2-3 buffer days, as sometimes, the flight from Jomsom - Pokhara might get delayed for a day, due to high levels of rain or snowfall, or consider opting for the jeep option for the transportation from Jomsom to Pokhara.
- Set an itinerary with a gradual pace and at least set 2 acclimatization days, if combined with other treks; however, if you are opting for a sole trek only to the Thorung La, then 1 rest day in Manang is enough.
- The trail conditions usually remain slippery with the high possibility of landslides and avalanches, so make sure to wear footwear accordingly and navigate with the help of stretchable trekking poles.
- The frequent precipitation and gloominess along the trailheads surely hide away the view of mountains and landscapes, so make sure to stay prepared accordingly, and set the mindset with realistic expectations.
- Do not miss out on carrying the dry fit clothing (moisture-wicking), focused for lower elevation trekking routes, as the humidity level is high, exceeding the temperature beyond 22 degrees Celsius.
- During monsoon times, there is a high level of rainfall, due to which the trailheads are filled with leeches, mosquitoes, and other disturbing insects, so make sure to carry insect repellent as a precaution.
What to consider while trekking to the Annapurna Circuit in winter?
- Do not miss out, bring crampons with you to navigate through the snowy pathways with ease; however, if you have trekking boots with a strong grip, then, yes, you are good to go.
- During winter times, the darkness comes earlier, with short winter days, so it is highly suggested to start the trek earlier and reach the accommodations before the darkness.
- Winter brings less crowded trailheads, with some tea houses closed, as well; thus, ensure to bring snacks and reusable water bottles.
- Cold temperature highly increases the risk of altitude sickness, so make sure to include proper acclimatization days, a slow pace of ascent, and monitor your pulse rate via oximeter.
- Consider bringing essential equipment such as a sleeping bag (-15 degree Celsius rated), woolen hats, headlamps with extra batteries, and insulated gloves.
Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Considering the stable weather and climatic conditions, the ideal season for the trek to Annapurna Circuit stands out to be Spring, starting from March to mid-May, and Autumn from mid-September to early November. During this span of the year, the weather and temperature usually remain stable, with no chances of heavy precipitation (rainfall or snowfall), offering hikers clear views of the mountains and landscapes throughout the journey.
While the spring brings the blooming, thriving red rhododendrons, covering the trailheads, with its captivating beauty, in the autumn times, you can celebrate the boisterous celebrations with locals, of the major festivals Dashain and Tihar, getting the detailed insights of the Himalayan lifestyle. Due to the lack no risk of a rain shower, the terrain remains dry, without any slippery pathways, where you can undertake the hike with ease, without any challenging sections, and explore more out of the Himalayas, in comfort, which suits every kind of hiker, from beginners to families with kids as well.
On the other hand, the winter season is the coldest, especially the months of December and January, with cold temperatures and heavy snowfall near the high pass, which can be a bit strenuous and challenging, but can be smoothly doable with proper planning and preparations. However, this season of winter stands out as a haven for experienced hikers, with the panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, and lush green valleys, covered with wild flowers and snow frosts. Meanwhile, the monsoon season, starting from June till August, is usually not suggested for hikers due to the heavy level of rain and snowfall, hiding the views of the surroundings, with the terrains becoming completely challenging to navigate through.
Final Say: Conclusion
The Annapurna Circuit weather and temperature fluctuate constantly throughout the year, whereas the major factors that highly influence the climatic conditions are the peak and off-season, and the altitude variations. While Spring and Autumn offer stable weather with clear surrounding views, the monsoon and winter spans of the year are still doable with prior planning and preparation.
We at Destination Himalaya Treks offer trekking to the Annapurna circuit throughout the year, where your safety and enjoyable Himalayan adventure are guaranteed, with the guidance of professional teams and navigation of the licensed trekking guide, carrying the experience of more than 10+ years, with proficiency in English speaking and other languages, ensuring comfort at the same time. The trip can be organized as per your time, budget, and itinerary, with personal choices, at any time of the year. For further details, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp +977 9851016814 or email at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com.
