The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a journey like no other, where you start in warm, green valleys at just 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and ascend to the towering, snow-dusted heights of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,764 feet) within a few incredible days.
This breathtaking elevation change means you’ll experience a world of weather variations, from sunny farmland trails to chilly alpine passes, all on a single adventure.
When planning your trek, understanding the Annapurna Circuit Trek weather is crucial.
The climate can shift dramatically depending on your altitude, season, and even the time of day, making careful preparation essential for your safety and comfort.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to expect month-by-month and season-by-season, covering temperatures, rainfall, trail conditions, and essential gear tips.
Whether you’re trekking in the crisp air of autumn, the lush greenery of monsoon, the bright days of spring, or the snowy beauty of winter, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into how the weather shapes your Annapurna Circuit adventure, and how you can make the most of it!
What to Expect Throughout the Year
Spring – March, April, May
This is the most popular time of the year for trekking throughout the whole of Nepal. The skies will be clear and the days sunny. There will be no rain. At lower altitudes, it will be quite warm (maybe as much as mid-20s Celsius) yet as you ascend beyond 3,000m the days, although still sunny and comfortable, will be noticeably cooler.
Early mornings, evenings, and nights will require extra clothing for the chill! The average temperatures will be 7 to 24oC. At the high altitudes such as at Manang, Thorong Phedi, and going across the Thorong La Pass can be below freezing. There should be no snowfall or snow, or only remaining snow, on the Thorong La at this time of year.
If you are trekking on beyond Muktinath, be aware there are high winds in this area, and down as far as Marpha. The wind will howl across the mountains, down through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. Walking in the morning rather than the afternoon when the winds get up, will reduce your battle against the wind.
What are the best things about the spring season?
Spring (March, April, and May) is considered one of the absolute best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit, not just because of the weather, but also for the sheer beauty of the landscapes and vibrancy of life along the trail.
Here’s why spring is so magical:
Perfect Trekking Weather
- During spring, the weather is incredibly stable, offering clear blue skies, warm days, and minimal chances of rain.
- Temperatures at lower altitudes are pleasantly warm (15°C to 25°C), while at higher elevations they are cool but comfortable.
- With dry trails and sunny days, trekking conditions are at their most ideal, making every day’s hike a joy rather than a challenge.
Lush Vegetation and Blooming Landscapes
- After the winter snow melts, the Annapurna region bursts into full bloom.
- You’ll trek through lush terraced farmland in the lower valleys, golden fields, vibrant vegetable patches, and flourishing rice paddies.
- As you climb higher, you pass through dense rhododendron forests, Nepal’s national flower.
These forests ignite with bright red, pink, purple, and white blossoms, creating tunnels of color along the trail. - Other wildflowers such as magnolias, primroses, and orchids also bloom, painting the hillsides in spectacular hues.
- The valleys and hills are alive with birds, butterflies, and the fresh energy of springtime renewal.
Clear and Crisp Mountain Views
- The skies remain mostly cloud-free, especially in March and April.
- This ensures unobstructed views of iconic peaks like Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).
- Sunrise and sunset views are particularly breathtaking, with golden light hitting the snowy summits.
- Photographers and mountain lovers will find spring the perfect season for crystal-clear, postcard-worthy shots.
Comfortable Trekking Experience
- Snow has mostly melted from lower and mid-elevations, meaning easier trails without the need for specialized equipment like crampons.
- At higher elevations (around Thorong La Pass), while temperatures can still drop below freezing, the days are manageable with proper layering.
- Trail conditions are dry and solid, minimizing the risk of slips and muddy paths.
Festive Local Atmosphere
- Spring coincides with several local festivals, like Holi (the festival of colors) and Nepali New Year (mid-April), offering trekkers a chance to experience Nepalese culture in a vibrant way.
- Villages buzz with local activity, from farming to festive celebrations, making interactions with locals even more lively and memorable.
The perfect weather and the lush vegetation! At lower altitudes, you will be passing through terraced farmlands and forests. The rhododendrons will be in bloom along with other colorful wildflowers.
Do I have to prepare for the cold?
This season is not considered as ‘cold’ in the Himalayas! A warm jacket (like a fleece) will be required in the morning and evening at the higher altitudes. During the day a T-shirt or shirt is enough.
Obviously crossing the high Thorong La pass will be cold (with temperatures as low as freezing) so extra layers will be required.
Is there any place to chill out and relax during the trek?
You will have an acclimatization day in Manang so you can explore the local Buddhist culture and once you cross the Thorong La there are interesting places such as the Bob Marley Hotel in Muktinath to explore.
But basically, as on any trek in Nepal, the lodge dining room with its warm fire is the center of nightlife! At the end of the trek – should you decide to go to Pokhara with its vibrant nightlight and laid-back lakeside bars and restaurants, you can enjoy it there. Or party equally as much back in Kathmandu!
How crowded will the trail be?
Spring (March to May) is considered one of the two peak trekking seasons in Nepal (the other being autumn).
Because of the perfect weather, clear skies, and blooming landscapes, the Annapurna Circuit attracts a large number of trekkers from all over the world during these months.
Here’s what you can expect regarding crowds:
Busy Trails
- Popular sections of the Annapurna Circuit, like the stretches from Chame to Manang and from Muktinath to Jomsom, will have a steady flow of trekkers every day.
- You will often find yourself sharing the trail with individuals, small groups, and organized tours.
- Early mornings tend to be less crowded, while the late mornings and afternoons can become busier as groups set out after breakfast.
Lively Teahouses
- Teahouses and lodges will be near full occupancy during this season, especially in popular villages like Manang, Thorong Phedi, and Muktinath.
- It’s advisable to pre-book accommodation (especially in high-traffic areas) or arrive early in the afternoon to secure a room.
- Dining areas, warmed by wood-burning stoves, become social hubs in the evenings, with trekkers exchanging stories, laughter, and travel tips around the fire.
Vibrant Trekking Community
- While the trails are busier, the energy is infectious.
- You’ll meet adventurers from all corners of the globe, making it easy to find trekking partners for certain sections or simply enjoy shared moments on the trail.
- Many lifelong friendships are formed over meals, around the fires, and during rest days in villages like Manang.
Why Crowds Are a Good Thing
- More people on the trail means more safety, especially at higher altitudes.
- In case of emergencies (like altitude sickness), assistance is more readily available.
- The festive, communal atmosphere adds to the overall Himalayan trekking experience.
Trekking Tips for Spring
- Protect against sun exposure with sunscreen and hats
- Start trekking early to avoid strong afternoon winds
- Wear layered clothing for temperature changes
- Carry a light fleece or down jacket
Tips: To avoid the heaviest crowds, start your trekking days early (by 6:30–7:00 AM).
Not only will you enjoy quieter trails, but you’ll also trek during cooler, more pleasant temperatures.
Summer (June)
Early summer on the Annapurna Circuit offers trekkers a brief window of opportunity before the monsoon fully sets in. The days are characterized by warm and humid conditions at lower elevations, while higher sections remain pleasantly cool. Occasional afternoon showers may occur, especially toward the end of the month, as the monsoon season approaches.
- Rainfall: Increasing; heavier towards the end of June
- Daytime Temperatures: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
- Nighttime Temperatures: 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
What can I expect during the Summer season?
In early June, trekkers can generally expect dry and warm trekking conditions, making it a pleasant time to be on the trail. The landscapes start to transform into lush greenery with emerging vegetation as the monsoon approaches. As the month progresses, afternoon showers and occasional thunderstorms become more frequent, especially toward the end of June.
Lower sections of the trail can feel quite hot and humid, requiring proper hydration and lightweight clothing, while higher sections remain cool and comfortable, offering a refreshing contrast. Despite the gradual onset of wetter conditions, early summer presents an excellent opportunity for relatively peaceful trekking, as fewer tourists are present compared to peak seasons. Morning hours often bring clear skies and stunning mountain views before the clouds roll in later in the day, making early starts highly recommended.
Is there anywhere to check the weather before trekking?
Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be highly unpredictable, regardless of the season. While forecasts give a general idea, actual mountain weather often changes rapidly, especially at higher elevations like Thorong La Pass.
Here’s how you can stay informed and make safer decisions during your trek:
Reliable Weather Sources:
- Weather Apps: Tools like Windy, AccuWeather, and Yr.no offer detailed forecasts for key points such as Manang, Muktinath, and Jomsom. Windy is especially useful for tracking wind patterns, which can impact high passes.
- Mountain Forecast Websites: Services like Mountain-Forecast.com and Meteoblue provide elevation-specific weather updates, including predicted snowfall, wind speed, and temperatures.
- Local Lodge Owners and Guides: Teahouse owners, porters, and guides are often the best sources for real-time trail and weather conditions. They receive daily updates and hear reports from trekkers ahead of you on the trail.
- Trekking Agencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara: Reputable agencies frequently collect and share updated trail and weather information from field teams.
Important Tips for Weather Planning:
- Cross-check multiple sources to get a more accurate weather picture.
- Start your trekking days early to avoid afternoon clouds, winds, and rain showers.
- Plan buffer days into your itinerary, especially if you are crossing Thorong La Pass, where snowstorms can cause unexpected delays.
- Always listen to local advice. If a guide or teahouse owner recommends waiting a day due to weather risks, take their advice seriously.
Tips: Even if the skies are clear in the morning, pack your day bag with rain gear, warm layers, and sun protectio Himalayan weather can change dramatically within a few hours.
Important Tips:
- Cross-check forecasts from multiple sources before making decisions.
- Be flexible with your itinerary, especially around crossing Thorong La Pass, weather windows are critical!
- Trust local advice if guides or lodge owners recommend waiting or altering your plan due to upcoming weather changes.
Tips: Even if the weather looks fine in the morning, always pack for sudden rain, snow, or strong winds, especially in higher regions above 3,500 meters!
Monsoon (July, August)
Monsoon peaks during July and August, bringing the heaviest rainfall of the year across Nepal. Lower sections of the Annapurna Circuit, particularly between Besisahar and Chame, experience frequent rain showers, muddy trails, swollen rivers, and occasional landslides. However, the higher sections of the trail (Upper Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, and beyond) fall under the rain shadow zone of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making them relatively dry and more manageable even during peak monsoon.
- Daytime Temperatures: 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F)
- Nighttime Temperatures: 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F)
- Rainfall: Heavy at lower altitudes; minimal in rain shadow areas
At lower elevations, the environment turns vividly green and rivers swell with monsoon runoff, but the humidity can make trekking uncomfortable. Leeches are common below 2,000 meters, and landslide risks increase on certain road sections.
However, once you gain altitude beyond Upper Pisang and enter Manang District, conditions improve significantly, with only occasional light rain and better trail stability. Views of the Annapurna range may be partially obstructed by clouds during the day, but clear mornings and post-rain sunsets often offer breathtaking scenery. Despite the challenges in the trek, trekkers who venture onto the trail during monsoon are rewarded with solitude, vibrant natural beauty, and more flexible accommodation options due to low tourist numbers.
What to Expect During Monsoon
During the monsoon season, trekkers should be prepared for frequent rain showers and occasional thunderstorms, particularly at lower elevations. Trails below 2,000 meters can become muddy and slippery, and leeches are a common nuisance in forested areas. However, the higher parts of the Annapurna Circuit, such as Upper Manang and beyond, lie in a rain shadow region and receive significantly less rainfall, offering drier and more pleasant trekking conditions.
The vibrant greenery and dramatic cloud formations create a stunning landscape, although consistent mountain views can be elusive due to cloud cover. Early mornings often present clear skies and excellent photographic opportunities before the clouds build up later in the day. The trails are notably quieter, allowing for a peaceful trekking experience, and accommodations are more readily available without the need for advance booking.
Will there be landslides on this trail?
At the beginning of the trek, (coming from Besisahar) the road has been recently black-topped and stones put in place to mitigate flooding.
But there is still the possibility of landslides if there is very heavy rain. In the upper parts of the trek, there will be no rain-induced landslides.
Once you cross the Thorong La and if you are continuing down the main Annapurna trek to Pokhara there are possibilities of landslides or river overflow on the way.
Do you recommend trekking alone in this season?
We strongly advise against trekking alone during the monsoon season. Due to fewer trekkers on the trails, assistance may be limited in case of emergencies such as injuries, altitude sickness, or trail blockages caused by landslides. If you must trek during this season, it is highly recommended to:
- Inform local authorities and lodges about your daily plans Safety should always be a priority, especially when trekking under unpredictable weather conditions.
- Find a reliable trekking partner
- Hire an experienced guide or join a group trek
Is it safe to trek with children in the monsoon?
If you are doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek with children, the monsoon should not be a problem. Be aware there may be delays in case there are landslides and the lower trails may be slippery.
Perhaps it is not the best time for very young children, but older children should be okay at this time of year. Keep in mind the high altitude of the Thorong La pass when considering bringing children on this trek.
Trekking Tips for Monsoon
- Waterproof clothing and sturdy boots
- Leech socks for forested areas
- Avoid trekking alone; use a guide
- Check weather forecasts but stay flexible
Autumn – September, October, November
Temperatures are similar to spring, getting cooler as the season gets later. But expect in the region of 10 to 24oC at lower altitudes with temperatures reaching freezing at the high altitudes.
Like the spring the weather is temperate and clear. There may be some leftover rain in September at the lower altitudes. November will see crystal clear skies! This is the other most popular time to trek – for obvious reasons!
What is so special about this season?
Autumn is widely regarded as the best time of year to trek the Annapurna Circuit, and for good reason. After the heavy rains of the monsoon season, the air is washed clean of dust and pollution, offering crystal-clear mountain views that stretch endlessly under deep blue skies. The days are warm and pleasant for trekking, while the nights are cool and refreshing, especially at higher elevations.
Beyond the superb weather conditions, autumn in Nepal coincides with the country’s major cultural festivals — Dashain and Tihar — allowing trekkers to witness and even participate in vibrant local celebrations. The trails and villages come alive with colorful prayer flags, traditional dances, and festive energy, adding a rich cultural dimension to the journey. With stable weather, minimal rainfall, and breathtaking scenery at every turn, autumn offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty on the Annapurna Circuit.
Any recommendation for this season?
Book in advance. As it is extremely busy, you should book as far in advance as you can. Also, many trekking staff, guides, etc will be taking holidays to celebrate the festivals with their family.
Be aware also that if you are trekking on beyond Muktinath, there are high winds in this area, down as far as Marpha. The wind will howl across the mountains, down through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
See Also,
Winter – December, January, February
You can imagine what winter will be like in the Himalayas. There will be heavy snowfall at higher altitudes and the Thorong La pass at 5,416m will be hard to cross.
There may be some times when the pass is closed because of snow. In which case you will have to return the same way. If you have already winter trekking experience and are well prepared with the right, waterproof, gear you might enjoy the crisp air and empty trails of winter.
Views will be wonderful although you might be unlucky and have some cloudy days. It will be below freezing point at night at higher altitudes. Teahouses will remain open and that fire in the dining area is very welcoming!
Winter Weather Risks on the Annapurna Circuit
While winter trekking (December to February) on the Annapurna Circuit can offer breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and peaceful, empty trails, it also presents serious weather-related risks that trekkers must carefully prepare for.
The most significant concern is extreme cold, particularly at higher elevations.
In places like Manang (3,540m), Yak Kharka (4,050m), Thorong Phedi (4,450m), and across the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), nighttime temperatures often plunge below -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F).
Heavy snowfall is common around Thorong La, often blocking the pass and making crossings dangerous or impossible for days at a time. When snowstorms hit, whiteout conditions reduce visibility to nearly zero, particularly between Thorong Phedi and the summit of the pass, making navigation extremely risky.
Avalanche risks, though relatively low compared to other trekking regions, still exist on steeper snow-loaded slopes, particularly between Yak Kharka and Thorong High Camp. Even when the weather is stable, icy trails around Manang, Letdar, and Muktinath after the pass can make descents treacherous without proper equipment like crampons or microspikes.
Locations Most Affected by Winter weather
I don’t mind cold. Can I trek in the winter?
Yes, you can! Just be prepared for the cold, and the wet snow underfoot. Bring your sense of adventure.
If you need more information on this trek or any other trek, please get in touch with us here at Magical Nepal.