Best Time to Trek Annapurna Circuit — Month-by-Month Guide
The Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal’s most iconic long-distance treks, guiding trekkers through lush valleys, Buddhist villages, alpine landscapes, and over the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Before planning the trek, the question almost every traveller asks is: When is the best time to trek Annapurna Circuit?
This month-by-month guide breaks down weather patterns, trail conditions, crowds, and what to expect each season. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or an experienced Himalayan traveler, this detailed overview will help you choose the perfect trekking window.
Understanding the Annapurna Circuit Climate
The Annapurna region spans a wide altitude range—from 800 m in Besisahar to over 5,000 m at Thorong La. Because of this variation, the weather changes dramatically based on elevation and season.
The best time to trek Annapurna Circuit depends largely on your preference for visibility, temperature, and trail conditions. In general:
- Autumn (September–November): Most stable weather
- Spring (March–May): Warm temperatures and blooming forests
- Winter (December–February): Cold and snowy
- Monsoon (June–August): Wet trails and limited visibility
Below is the complete month-by-month breakdown to help you decide the ideal trekking season.
Month-by-Month Guide to the Annapurna Circuit
January: Harsh Winter and Heavy Snow
January is deep winter and usually not ideal for most trekkers.
- Extremely cold temperatures above Manang
- Frequent snowfall around Thorong La
- Some lodges may close
- Limited visibility on bad weather days
Recommended only for highly experienced winter trekkers.
February: Clearer Days but Still Very Cold
Conditions improve slightly toward late February.
- Crisp morning views
- Very cold nights
- Snow and ice remain at higher altitudes
- Fewer trekkers on the trail
Suitable for experienced trekkers with winter gear and flexibility in their schedule.
March: Beginning of Spring and Improving Weather
March marks the start of the trekking season.
- Longer days and warmer temperatures
- Rhododendrons begin blooming
- Stable trail conditions
- Moderate crowds
March is one of the Annapurna Circuit best month options for spring trekking.
April: Peak Spring Season
April is one of the most popular months to trek.
- Excellent mountain views
- Clear weather
- Lush forests and blooming flowers
- Comfortable temperatures
April is often considered one of the overall best time to trek Annapurna Circuit months.
May: Warm and Pleasant but Cloudier Afternoons
May remains a good trekking month, though conditions become less predictable.
- Warm temperatures
- Pre-monsoon clouds may appear
- Afternoon showers possible
Morning views are typically clear; weather becomes more humid later in the day.
June: Start of the Monsoon Season
June signals the beginning of the monsoon.
- Rainfall increases
- Trails become slippery
- Landslide risks in lower regions
- Clouds limit views
Not recommended unless trekking in the rain-shadow areas.
July: Peak Monsoon with High Rainfall
July brings heavy monsoon rains.
- Wet, muddy trails
- Frequent leeches in lower forests
- High humidity
- Very limited mountain visibility
Best avoided for the Annapurna Circuit.
August: End of Monsoon and Gradual Improvement
Rainfall decreases toward late August.
- Trails remain wet
- Cloud cover persists
- Reduced crowds
Not an ideal time, but trekking becomes possible in upper dry regions.
September: Start of Peak Trekking Season
September marks the return of stable weather.
- Clear skies
- Mild temperatures
- Dry trails
- Excellent visibility
September is one of the best time to trek Annapurna Circuit periods, especially for those avoiding peak crowds.
October: The Best Month for the Annapurna Circuit
October is considered the top month for this trek.
- Crystal-clear views
- Almost no rainfall
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
- Peak trekking season activity
If you’re deciding when to do Annapurna Circuit, October is the most reliable choice.
November: Cold Nights but Stable Weather
November is another excellent trekking month.
- Dry weather
- Clear mornings
- Cold, crisp nights
- Less crowded than October
Highly recommended for trekkers who prefer quieter trails with stable conditions.
December: Early Winter with Clear Views
December offers beautiful conditions early in the month.
- Excellent visibility
- Fewer trekkers
- Increasing cold and snow risks toward late December
Suitable for trekkers comfortable with cold-weather conditions.
Best Time to Trek Annapurna Circuit: Summary
The best time to trek Annapurna Circuit depends on your travel goals and comfort level. However, two seasons stand out:
Best Overall Months
September, October, November
- Stable weather
- Amazing visibility
- Perfect for first-time trekkers
March, April
- Pleasant temperatures
- Blooming landscapes
- Clear, warm days
Best of the Best
- October for the clearest weather
- April for the best spring scenery
These months offer ideal trekking conditions across the entire circuit.
How Weather Affects Your Annapurna Circuit Experience
Altitude and Thorong La Crossing
Winter months bring heavy snow and possible pass closures.
Trail Conditions
Monsoon months mean slippery trails and landslide risks.
Accommodation Availability
Winter and monsoon seasons may have limited open tea houses.
Photography and Scenery
Autumn provides the sharpest visibility.
Spring offers color and warmth.
Winter offers dramatic snowy landscapes.
Understanding Annapurna Circuit weather by month helps you pick your best window.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Best Time to Trek Annapurna Circuit
1. What is the best time to trek Annapurna Circuit?
The best time to trek Annapurna Circuit is September to November and March to April due to stable weather and clear views.
2. What is the Annapurna Circuit best month for beginners?
October and April offer the safest, most predictable trekking conditions.
3. When to do Annapurna Circuit if I want fewer crowds?
Late November, early December, and March are great options with fewer trekkers.
4. What is the Annapurna Circuit weather by month like?
Autumn is clear and dry; spring is warm and colorful; winter is cold with snow; monsoon months are wet and cloudy.
5. Is trekking the Annapurna Circuit possible in winter?
Yes, early winter is possible, but heavy snowfall increases risks. Thorong La may close temporarily due to snow.
Trek the Annapurna Circuit with We Ramblers
Choosing the right month is essential, but trekking with experienced professionals ensures a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable journey.
We Ramblers offers:
- Experienced, certified local guides
- Acclimatization-focused Annapurna Circuit itineraries
- Safe and affordable trekking packages
- Small group departures
- Transparent pricing
- Proper support from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Whether you’re trekking in peak autumn or spring, We Ramblers ensures a reliable and memorable adventure.
To plan your trek with expert guidance and exceptional service, book your Annapurna Circuit trek with We Ramblers today.
