Best Time to Trek the Annapurna Circuit
One of the toughest decisions before trekking Annapurna Circuit is to plan what is the best season and when to go. In this travel guide, we share tips on when is the best time to hike Annapurna Circuit, including the best months and overall the best time to visit this popular Annapurna Range in Nepal.
When we think retrospectively of our two-week Annapurna Circuit Trek adventure, we feel very blessed.
And we are pretty sure that travelers walking under some of the highest peaks in the world feel the same.
We were always drawn to mountains, and that's why it did not take long between the initial idea and the time when we landed in Kathmandu.
The only thing that delayed our trip was the weather and seasons. We simply could not decide when is the best time to hike Annapurna Circuit.
We were very well aware that the trek is physically challenging no matter what is the season. Still, we wanted to increase our chances for pleasant temperatures, passable Thorong La Pass, and incredible unobscured views.
We also wanted to avoid downpours and crowds. The only problem in the mountains is the fact that no matter how hard you plan, the weather is unpredictable and can change any minute.
This is simply something you have to accept and maybe create a backup plan.
Still, it is nowadays possible to predict trends and then consider all pros and cons.
In the end, we figured out that for us could be the best month to hike Annapurna Circuit the turn of March and April. It is not the most popular season, but we'll get to it later.
If you want to hear good news, here it is. Theoretically, Annapurna Circuit is an all-year-round destination.
But the more we read about every season, the more we knew we could easily eliminate some months because it simply did not meet our requirements or our skills.
Annapurna Circuit is a trek that can take you anything from one to three weeks, depending on your pace and starting point.
We decided to start in Besisahar, climbed all the way to Thorong La Pass with a short detour to Tilicho Lake, and we ended our hike in Jomsom. This trail showed us incredible diversity.
Besisahar is 760 meters above sea level, so you'll experience dramatic changes not only in the altitude but you will also walk through a few climate zones.
You will start in a sub-tropical zone and climb your way up to the mountains, where the highest point is 5416 meters above sea level.
As you can see, it is not easy to figure out what is the best month to hike the Annapurna Circuit because every zone brings different temperatures, rainfall, and travel conditions.
But in the end, it is possible to break down the weather in the Annapurna Circuit into four distinctive seasons, and you can choose the one that suits you the best.
BEST TIME TO HIKE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT
Before you commit to the season and start planning your Annapurna Circuit itinerary, it is necessary to write down your priorities.
How much time you have for trekking in Nepal? Do you have experience with hiking in the winter? Are you easily annoyed by wet conditions? Do you like meeting new people on the trail or prefer a rather lonely trip?
Answers to these questions will help you a bit to narrow down your choice.
Many people say that the best time for trekking in Nepal is autumn, from September to November, but it is not that easy as every season has several pros and cons.
Sure, autumn might be the safest option, and if you are looking for a straightforward tip on the best months to hike Annapurna Circuit, you do not have to read any further.
But if you want to make an informed decision based on our experience, keep on reading.
You might find out that your best time to visit the area is a bit different.
We've broken down the best time for trekking in Nepal's Annapurna Range in four seasons.
As hiking in the high mountains is often unpredictable, it is good to know that your comfort on the trail is very often closely connected with your equipment.
Feel free to read our Annapurna Circuit Packing List first.
AUTUMN: SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER, NOVEMBER
You won't probably find a better time of the year for hiking the Annapurna Circuit than autumn.
Months of September, October, and November are renowned, and there's probably not an avid hiker who had never heard about this famous period that offers so many perfect trekking opportunities.
What is all the fuss about, and why is autumn the best time for trekking Annapurna Circuit?
It is hard to beat the weather that brings people from all around the world to Nepal.
Autumn is the dry season (except for the beginning of September and late November); trails are not dusty, and the views are absolutely uninterrupted.
It almost seems that snow-capped mountains are painted on a blue backdrop - this is how surreal the region in the autumn is.
Even though we've said that the mountains' climate is unpredictable, mid-September to mid-November is actually very stable.
It would be bad luck to have rainy weather several days in a row. If you want to be almost 100% sure you'll cross Thorong La Pass (although altitude sickness might come in a way), autumn is your best bet.
Temperatures are pleasant, although it, of course, gets chillier in the high altitude and the evening.
As you might guess, the dry season is no secret, so the most significant disadvantage is the number of travelers who flood the trail. Teahouses, accommodation, and restaurants are full.
It is also the time of the year when you can see the increase of rates, although prices in Nepal are low even during the main season.
Pros | There's no doubt about it; autumn does not have a competition when it comes to weather conditions. Blue skies, picture-perfect views, and trails clear of snow are the main reasons to choose this time.
Cons | The only downside can be the number of travelers and less relaxed atmosphere in guesthouses. Also, flowers and trees are no longer in bloom because of dry conditions.
Our opinion | We think autumn is perfect, but lately, we've been focusing on traveling in shoulder season as it allows us to avoid crowds. This is actually the only disadvantage we see in these months.
Still, autumn is undeniably the best time to hike Annapurna Circuit if you want to have perfect conditions (almost - it's still nature) guaranteed.
Essential equipment | Even for hiking in the dry season, we would pack the usual: layers and functional clothes.
Because of the strong sun, make sure you have a sun hat or bandana, sunscreen, and a good quality sunglasses. Needless to say, sunglasses are super important for every season.
WINTER: DECEMBER, JANUARY, FEBRUARY
We know we said that Annapurna Circuit is a trek that is doable every season but to be honest, wintertime was the first period we had ruled out.
Based on our experience and tight schedule, we simply knew that for us, winter is not the best time for hiking.
On the other hand, the winter months can be perfect for you; it's just necessary to know what to expect.
Although every year can bring slightly different weather, winter is the coldest time of the year in the Himalayas based on data.
Temperatures in the lowlands can still be bearable, around 12°C, but the temperature significantly decreases with the altitude.
The higher you get, the colder conditions you can experience. Although temperatures during the day are usually above zero, this is definitely not the case at night or early in the morning when the sun is still down.
There are a few more challenges you have to consider. It usually does not rain, but the chance of snowfall is pretty high.
It can actually snow that hard that some trails, including the one across the saddle, can be blocked.
That's something you have to take into account and either have another plan or plenty of time so you can wait it out.
Snow can also often be accompanied by blizzards. It is also the reason why many locals who run guesthouses in the mountains often leave their homes for the winter and stay with their families in the lower altitude where the weather is more bearable.
This is why not all tea houses are opened during the winter, so it is necessary to plan your trip more carefully and know your options.
Because of the fact winter is a challenging time in the mountains, you should have previous experience, and if this is your first trip to the winter wonderland, we would have seriously considered hiring a guide.
It might seem that winter has only negatives, but it is certainly not true.
The scenery in winter is stunning - our spring adventure also included a few snowy nights, and the morning walks in the narrow trail in the snow was always stunning. Also, when it does not snow, the air is crisp and views clear.
Another advantage is the number of hikers. It is very likely that if you decide to hike the Annapurna Circuit in the winter, you will meet the same-minded, adventurous souls like yourself.
If there's one quality you should have when trekking in the winter, it is to know your limits and be aware of the fact that you might not be able to cross Thorong La Pass.
On the other hand, that's something no one can guarantee you any time of the year.
If you want to experience Annapurna Circuit in the winter but you are still unsure whether this adventure is suitable for you, the safest option is the month of December.
Temperatures are still a bit higher than in January and February, and average rain/snowfall is lower as well. It is also important to always keep in mind wind chill that can lower the perceiving temperature significantly.
Pros | In general, wintertime in the Annapurna Region is crowd-less, and you can enjoy the fairytale-like scenery and push your limits.
Cons | The route can be blocked by snow. The comfort is lower because of cold weather, and the logistics might be more challenging because of closed teahouses. Experiences with winter treks are necessary.
Our opinion | No matter how much we love the winter landscape, we would think twice before starting Annapurna Circuit in the winter. We would recommend it to experienced mountaineers with the right equipment on the loose schedule or for people who have a motto that the journey is the destination because it is possible that you won't be able to reach Thorong La Pass.
Essential Equipment | To survive winter in Nepal's mountains, you need to pack many layers. The key to success is functional clothes, but this is actually what you need all year round.
Here we would like to stress how important is it to have an avalanche kit that consists of an avalanche transceiver, avalanche probe, snow shovel, and ice axe.
Quality waterproof boots and many pairs of dry woolen socks should come without saying.
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TRAVEL INSURANCE
If you plan your trip to the Himalayas in Nepal, there are several things to consider.
First of all, the trails are challenging, weather can change rapidly, and you'll be hiking at a high altitude - and unfortunately, mishaps happen.
Plus, the highest point on Annapurna Circuit is 5416 meters above sea level.
When it comes to travel insurance, we never travel without it. It is not just us who think that travel insurance is important. The Nepalese government requires having insurance.
For your safety, it should cover sports activities and climb above 5000 meters.
Having a travel insurance number is even compulsory when filling out the form in order to get Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permits - TIMS and ACAP.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
SPRING: MARCH, APRIL, MAY
Trekking Annapurna Circuit in spring is the time of the year we have our personal experience with.
Although it is not the main hiking season, there were several reasons why we chose this period, specifically the end of March and the first half of April.
Spring is officially the second most popular season in the mountains of Nepal.
What can you expect?
The winter is over; temperatures rise - it is actually very hot during the day, especially below 4000 meters.
Nights are colder - this was when we were glad we took down jackets and quality sleeping bags.
The landscape changes the appearance from the barren grayish color covered by a snow blanket to an environment full of life.
You can start seeing green pastures, rhododendrons, and flowers in bloom.
Although it is possible to experience a few snowy days - we had three nights of snow before crossing Thorong La Pass - it is rather an exception.
It can rain, but it is not very likely; the rainiest spring month is March (the beginning) and then May because the weather is slowly turning into monsoon season.
This was the reason why we planned to be in the high elevation in April, which seemed a reasonably good month for hiking Annapurna Circuit.
We remember we had a thunderstorm once later in the afternoon, but we were already sipping hot tea in our guesthouse by that time.
Paths were clear of snow (Thorong La Pass should be passable), except for trails above 4000 meters, but these trails were well-taken care of.
When we made acclimatization trips, one from Manang to Ice Lake and then another one to Tilicho Lake, these lakes were still frozen, but the trails were walkable.
All guesthouses are open in spring, but the number of fellow hikers is still reasonable.
We did not have a problem finding a place to stay, and we met hikers along the trail only near the settlements, in Manang and then at Thorong La Pass.
Other than that, we walked mostly on own and could enjoy the pristine nature.
Days in spring are also longer, so you won't be pressed for time.
The only disadvantage we found was the hazy weather in the lowlands. For the first three or four days, before we reached the elevation line close to 3000 meters, the views were limited.
On the other hand, once we reached the real mountains and left the sub-tropical zone behind, the vistas were clear and beautiful. As usual, the weather can turn either way.
We were super happy with our decision to hike Annapurna Circuit in spring, but the safest option is surely the month of April.
Pros | The advantage of hiking Annapurna Circuit in spring are higher temperatures, low chance of rainy weather, and perfect undisturbed views in the higher altitude. Chances to cross Thorong La Pass are high.
Cons | The trail is starting to be busy during this period. The weather can still turn either way but should be stable if you opt for the end of March till the beginning of May. The views in the low elevation are often hazy, especially in the morning.
Our opinion | In our opinion, spring is the perfect time for trekking in Nepal. We felt like this option gave us an awesome ratio of price, weather, and considerably free walking paths. Of course, we probably lucked out the weather.
It rained only a few times out of almost three weeks, and the bad weather usually cleared during the night. If we visit Nepal in the future, we will aim for this season again.
Essential equipment | Rule number one is not to underestimate the extreme weather of the Himalayas. Temperatures are pretty high, so sunscreen with high SPF and lip balm is a must.
Also, despite the hot periods, make sure to wear light hiking trousers and a functional t-shirt with long sleeves to prevent sunburnt.
Drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated is essentail in high altitude, so a reusable water bottle is a must.
SteriPen might be useful if there is no drinking station nearby, and you want to lower your plastic footprint in the Himalayas.
SUMMER: JUNE, JULY, AUGUST
Summer is the hottest season in Nepal, but it is also the rainiest season that brings monsoon.
There's a lot to think about if you plan your Annapurna Circuit during the monsoon season. In rainy season, as the name suggests, you can expect rain.
Although we could read that Annapurna Range acts as a barrier and the trail is in the rain shadow, you will hardly avoid getting wet somewhere along the way.
The rainiest month of the year is July, so if you want to experience the loop in the offseason but still get the best out of the weather, your top alternative should be the beginning of June or the end of August.
Even though it often rains at night till the next morning, the monsoon season brings several more downsides.
First of all, we are not talking here about light rain but a proper torrential downpour. Secondly, the rain often destroys trails, and in some parts, you can expect landslides and rockslides.
Landslides are pretty dangerous, and it can even change your plans entirely. No matter if you are in the lowland or higher elevation, paths are often muddy and slippery.
On top of that, this kind of weather is perfect for mosquitos and leeches that might accompany you for a big part of the trip.
Obviously, it does not rain from the clear sky, so the weather can be often cloudy and hazy, which is a shame because views are the real highlight of the circuit. But we do not want to sound too negative here.
As usual, even the offseason has its pros. One of them is the lack of hikers - summer is the best time of the year for trampers who love to be alone.
Also, the summer months show visitors the true power of nature.
Everything is green, new waterfalls run down the slopes, and river beds are filled with mighty waters.
Last but not least, we are sure that even during the monsoon season comes a break, and you'll have a chance to experience sunny skies and perfect vistas.
Even though we probably would not choose summer for our trip, we would, on the other hand, recommend it to travelers who have the luxury to stay put in case of a longer period of rain.
Pros | The advantage of hiking in the wet season is the lush greenery, especially at the lower altitude. It is also improbable you should meet many hikers along the way.
Cons | The disadvantage is the possibility of landslides and muddy trails that can also jeopardize your attempt to get to the other side of the loop via Thorong La Pass. And of course, you just need to accept the fact you'll get wet.
Our opinion | For us is the monsoon season the least attractive, but we can understand that some travelers will enjoy walking the remote part of the world in this weather.
We would recommend this season to long term travelers or people who are not on a strict schedule.
Essential equipment | Conditions will be hot, wet, and humid, so you need to pack accordingly. Make sure to keep your extra clothes and valuables dry.
Most waterproof backpacks are not very comfortable and large enough for a 2-week trek, so you need a regular comfortable rucksack 45-55L with a good rain cover or bunch of dry sacks. However, we would bring dry sacks eiher way.
Another essential thing is bug repellent to get rid of mosquitos.
We would pack both a rain poncho (that can cover backpack as well) and a proper rain jacket. Although it might sound weird, you can try a ultralight hiking umbrella, especially in the lower elevation, because you would boil in your own sweat while wearing a rain poncho.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
