Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Published On : 9th Feb, 2026 By Himalayan Dream Team

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is from March to May and September to November. This is because there is less rain and snow in the mountains which leads to better weather and makes it easier to cross the Thorong La Pass which is 5,416 meters. Dry weather means it is safe to cross Thorong La Pass and trek the Annapurna Circuit. It is ideal weather for trekking the Annapurna Circuit.

The Annapurna Circuit is also diverse in trekking and is long distance. There is from subtropical valleys low and high to alpine. There is a lot of variation and because of this variation, the best time to do Annapurna Circuit Trek also changes. This shows how it impacts safety, the condition of the trail, the trail level of crowds, and the trek's comfort. Each month changes the experience you get which is why trekking comfort, hiking experience, desired level of solitude, optimal scenic, and safety from crowds best describes the best months to do the Annapurna Circuit.

Why Timing Matters on the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit is a high-altitude long-distance trek, crossing multiple climate zones—from subtropical valleys to alpine deserts. Weather plays a critical role, especially when crossing Thorong La Pass, where snow and wind can change conditions quickly.

Choosing the best season for Annapurna Circuit Trek helps you:

• Reduce altitude-related risks

• Avoid pass closures

• Enjoy clearer mountain views

• Match the trek with your experience level

Best Seasons for Annapurna Circuit Trek (Quick Overview)

Spring Season (March–June): Best Time to Hike the Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna is the most suggested uphill trek for beginners. Most if not all the snow along the trail will have melted. This leaves the trail more safe and it will be less likely that you encounter snow avalanches. The region will be filled with blooming flowers and green forests which will provide a more enjoyable hiking experience. A clear view and stable weather will also be present. This trek is better than any other during April to June.

Hikers will experience the best overall conditions then ever before. The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges will be visible along the trek due to the less crowded weather and best visibility period.\

Less crowded weather along with a clear view and stable weather will create the best hiking experience out there.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Spring Weather Conditions

During the spring months, weather conditions on the Annapurna Circuit are generally mild, stable, and predictable, making spring one of the most reliable seasons for trekking and crossing Thorong La Pass safely.

While warm layers remain essential near high passes such as Thorong La (5,416 m), spring offers fewer weather-related challenges compared to winter or monsoon seasons. Occasional afternoon clouds may appear, but they rarely impact trekking safety or visibility.

Advantages of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Spring

• Spring highlights everything that makes the Annapurna Circuit one of the world’s best long-distance treks.
• Comfortable weather allows longer walking hours without extreme cold or heat
• Clear skies provide sharp, panoramic Himalayan views
• Rhododendron forests bloom across lower and mid-altitudes
• Excellent season for photography with minimal haze
• Wildlife activity increases after winter dormancy
• Cultural exposure through festivals like Holi and Nepali New Year
• Longer daylight hours support gradual ascents and better acclimatization

Overall, spring weather significantly improves the chances of a safe and comfortable Thorong La Pass crossing, reinforcing why it is considered the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit.

Challenges of Spring Trekking in the Annapurna Region

Despite its advantages, spring is also the busiest trekking season on the Annapurna Circuit.

• Popular trail sections and villages can be crowded

• Teahouses may fill quickly during peak weeks

• Advance planning is important for accommodation

• Sudden snowfall or strong winds can still occur at high altitude

While weather disruptions are rare, trekkers should remain flexible and well-prepared, especially when approaching Thorong La Pass.

Who Should Trek the Annapurna Circuit in Spring?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek in spring is ideal for trekkers seeking a balanced mix of safety, scenery, and comfort.

• Beginners & first-time trekkers:
  Stable weather and melting snow make trails more manageable

• Nature lovers & photographers:
  Blooming forests, clear skies, and dramatic landscapes

• Trekkers prioritizing safety:
  Reliable conditions for high-pass crossings and acclimatization

With longer days, predictable weather, and vibrant landscapes, spring remains the best season to hike the Annapurna Circuit for a complete and fulfilling Himalayan trekking experience.

Autumn Season (September–November): Best Time to Trek the Annapurna Circuit

The autumn season (September, October, and November) is widely regarded as the best and most reliable time to trek the Annapurna Circuit. Following the monsoon, the landscape is refreshed, skies are crystal clear, and the weather becomes stable and dry—creating near-perfect trekking conditions across the entire circuit. With comfortable temperatures, excellent visibility, and festive village life, autumn delivers the classic Himalayan trekking experience that most travelers dream of.

During autumn, the Annapurna Circuit offers exceptional mountain panoramas, including uninterrupted views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The air is crisp, the trails are dry, and the chance of rain or snowfall is minimal. Combined with Nepal’s biggest festivals such as Dashain and Tihar, autumn trekking provides not only outstanding scenery but also rich cultural encounters along the route.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Autumn Weather Conditions

Autumn weather on the Annapurna Circuit is stable, dry, and predictable, making it one of the best seasons for long trekking days and reliable high-pass crossings.

The settled post-monsoon climate significantly improves trail conditions and mountain visibility, making Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) more reliable to cross during autumn. While early mornings and evenings can be cold at higher altitudes, proper layering ensures a comfortable trekking experience.

Reasons to Choose Autumn for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Autumn is the most popular trekking season in Nepal, and for good reason—it offers the most balanced combination of weather, scenery, and cultural depth.

• Clear, settled skies provide consistently sharp Himalayan views

• Dry trails and stable weather allow long, uninterrupted trekking days

• Excellent season for photography due to haze-free visibility

• Reliable conditions for crossing Thorong La Pass

• Comfortable temperatures across varied altitudes

• Opportunity to experience major Nepali festivals and village celebrations

Overall, autumn delivers the most complete Annapurna Circuit trekking experience, combining safety, comfort, dramatic scenery, and cultural richness.

Challenges of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Autumn

Because autumn is the peak trekking season, crowds are the main challenge, particularly in October.

• Popular trail sections and villages can be busy

• Teahouses may fill quickly during peak weeks

• Guides, porters, and flights are in high demand

• Advance booking is essential for smooth logistics

Despite these challenges, good planning and early reservations ensure a well-organized and enjoyable trek.

Who Should Trek the Annapurna Circuit in Autumn?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek in autumn is suitable for all experience levels, from first-time trekkers to seasoned hikers.

• Beginners:
  Stable weather and dry trails reduce trekking risks

• Experienced trekkers:
  Ideal conditions for long days and high-pass crossings

• Culture-focused travelers:
  Festivals, village life, and social trekking atmosphere

• Scenery seekers & photographers:
  Best mountain visibility of the year

For trekkers seeking the best mountain views, reliable weather, and a vibrant trekking atmosphere,the major hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar autumn remains the top season to trek the Annapurna Circuit with Himalayan Dream Team.

Month-by-Month: Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

👉 Best months: April, May, October, November

Worst Season to Trek Annapurna Circuit

The worst season to climb Annapurna Circuit is the monsoon (June–August) due to:

• Heavy rainfall

• Landslides

• Slippery trails

• Poor mountain visibility

Winter (January) is also risky due to Thorong La Pass closures.

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon Season (July–August to Mid-September)

The Annapurna Circuit during the monsoon season means less trekkers making it easier to experience the Himalayas without the guide shuffling to check if you are still there. It is less bustling than during peak season in the spring and autumn. Waterfalls and rivers spring up and forest cover the hills. Don't let the rain scare you, if you are well equipped you may find you have the trail to yourself. 

If you like the idea of lots of trekking and no distractions, the monsoon raises the bar. It is no walk in the park, lots of area are going to have cloud cover for a majority of the trekking, it is going to be hard to see mountains, and even on the Annapurna there will be soup. Do not fret, the Annapurna is large enough to have places like Manang and Upper Pisang that are not going to be as rain ie soup saturated. Less rain means better trekking.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Monsoon Weather Conditions

From June to August, the Annapurna Circuit experiences frequent monsoon rainfall, particularly during afternoons and evenings. Weather conditions can change quickly, and visibility is often reduced by mist and cloud cover.

While mornings are often clearer, rainfall later in the day can affect trail conditions and visibility. Proper rain gear, waterproof packing, and cautious daily planning are essential when trekking the Annapurna Circuit during the monsoon season.

Pros of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit During Monsoon

• Significantly fewer trekkers and quieter trails

• Lush green landscapes and active waterfalls

• Rich biodiversity with vibrant flora and birdlife

• Cooler daytime temperatures at lower elevations

• A more remote and peaceful trekking experience

Cons of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit During Monsoon

• Slippery and muddy trails

• Risk of landslides in lower sections

• Limited mountain views due to clouds

• Leeches in forested areas

• Weather-related transport delays

Monsoon trekking requires proper preparation, including waterproof boots, rain jackets, dry bags, gaiters, and a flexible schedule.

Who Should Trek the Annapurna Circuit During Monsoon?

The Annapurna Circuit trek in monsoon is ideal for experienced trekkers who value solitude over scenery and are confident handling wet trail conditions. Nature lovers who enjoy lush landscapes and fewer crowds will also find this season rewarding with the right preparation.

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Winter Season (December–February)

The coldest and least busy season on the Annapurna Circuit is winter. From December to February the winter season provides snow and freezing temperatures at high altitudes. There are also severe challenges to trekking. On lower altitudes and in the became deserted, revealing an intimate sense of the isolation at lower altitudes. The views are unobstructed and winter trekking presents the best views.

Well experienced trekkers, who are open to altering plans, are the only individuals winter trekking is advisable. Trekking in winter increases the likelihood of encountering high snow levels on Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

Annapurna Circuit Trek Winter Weather Conditions

Winter weather on the Annapurna Circuit is cold and dry, with minimal rainfall but heavy snowfall at higher elevations. While skies are often clear and visibility is excellent, extreme cold and snow significantly increase trekking difficulty.

Although winter offers some of the clearest mountain views of the year, trekkers must be well-prepared with proper cold-weather gear and flexible itineraries, especially when approaching high passes such as Thorong La.

Pros of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit During Winter

• Very few trekkers and quiet trails

• Clear skies and sharp mountain views

• Authentic village life with minimal tourism

• Dry air and stable weather patterns

Cons of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit During Winter

• Extreme cold, especially at night

• Heavy snowfall at high passes

• Risk of Thorong La Pass closure

• Limited teahouse availability in higher regions

• Shorter daylight hours

Winter trekking requires high-quality cold-weather gear, including down jackets, insulated sleeping bags, crampons or microspikes, and experienced local guidance.

Who Should Trek the Annapurna Circuit During Winter?

The Annapurna Circuit trek in winter is recommended for experienced and physically fit trekkers who are comfortable with cold temperatures and potential route changes. Trekkers seeking solitude, dramatic winter scenery, and a remote Himalayan experience will find winter deeply rewarding—provided safety and flexibility remain top priorities.

Annapurna Circuit Difficulty Explained

Is Annapurna Circuit Hard?

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

• Main challenge: Altitude, not technical climbing

• Highest point: 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)

Can a Beginner Do Annapurna Circuit?

✅ Yes, with:

• Proper acclimatization

• Spring or autumn timing

• Licensed guide

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek for Weather & Visibility

The experience on the Annapurna Circuit can be impacted by the weather and the visibility. In spring and autumn, there are weather patterns that are really stable which means that there are clear skies, and little wind. This means that during these periods, the chances for trekking at higher altitudes are increased. This is particularly important when trekking Thorong La Pass. Poor visibility conditions may lead to dangerous blizzard and snow conditions. Trekking on the right dates for the Annapurna Circuit trek will allow trekkers to view a plethora of mountains which include Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek to See Flowers and Green Landscapes

From March-end to April-end marks the flowering season that many trekkers fall in love with. At this time in the lower to mid-sections of the Himalayan ranges, the Rhododendron forests are blossoming. In the mountains that are higher in altitude, the snow has just begun to melt. the alpine meadows are just beginning to wake up from their wintry slumber. The ideal time for photographers while trekking the Annapurna Circuit in the spring season is just when the snow has cleared up and the roads are about to get dusty, falling just prior to the end of the hiking season.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek Based on Crowd Levels

From what month you choose to go do the trek, the number of people will vary substantially. October and April are the busiest months, as that is when people feel the safest and the most comfortable. If you are the kind of hiker who prefers less company, then the last week of March, the first week of May, last week of November, and the weeks of winter would be the best. For the best experience, pick the right months of the Annapurna Circuit Trek to have safety, comfort, and solitude.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek for Photography

The best time for early spring and late fall for landscape photography is the best for lighting and clarity. In April, you can get capture colorful forests with snow capped mountains. In Octemer you can get sharp contrasts, clear deep blue skies and crystal clear mountains for backdrops. Morning light is especially remarcable for those 3 locations during those times.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek for Beginners

For first-time high-altitude trekkers, spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) remain the safest and most recommended seasons. These months provide stable weather, open teahouses, reliable trails, and manageable temperatures. Beginners attempting the Annapurna Circuit outside these seasons face increased risks related to cold, snow, or rainfall, making timing a critical factor for success.

Shoulder Season Trekking on the Annapurna Circuit

If you plan carefully, you can still trek Annapurna Circuit during shoulder seasons, which are early March and late November. Yes, it is true that these seasons are colder and are more limited when it comes to facilities and services when compared to other seasons, but do provide seasonal scenery that is less busy with less people in it. Those more interesting views can make for great photos compared to other seasons. People that decide to trek during these months should be ready to be flexible when it comes to planning when to do things like stay in lodges, or other costs, due to it being colder and more variable in terms of temp and weather.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek for Thorong La Pass Safety

Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) is the highest and most sensitive point of the trek. The safest crossing periods are April–May and October–November, when snow accumulation is minimal and weather windows are more predictable. Winter snow and monsoon storms significantly increase risk, making seasonal timing one of the most important safety considerations on the Annapurna Circuit.

Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp (EBC)

Which is Harder: Annapurna Circuit or EBC?

Spring vs Monsoon: Annapurna Circuit Trek Comparison

Autumn vs Winter: Annapurna Circuit Trek Comparison

👉 Annapurna Circuit is slightly harder due to length, not altitude.

ABC vs EBC: Which is Easier?

• ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) is easier than EBC

• ABC is lower (4,130 m)

• EBC is longer and more crowded

👉 If you’re asking “Which trek is equivalent to EBC?” → Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna vs Kilimanjaro: Which is Harder?

👉 Kilimanjaro feels harder for beginners due to rapid ascent.

FAQs – Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Which month is best for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

October is the best month overall, followed by April and November.

Can Annapurna be trekked in winter?

Yes, but only by experienced trekkers with winter gear.

Has anyone climbed Annapurna in winter?

Yes, but winter trekking is rare and challenging.

Is Annapurna deadlier than K2?

K2 is significantly more dangerous. Annapurna Circuit trekking is safe with proper planning.

What is the 2 PM rule in Everest?

Climbers must descend by 2 PM to avoid weather risks—less relevant to Annapurna trekking.

Things to Know Before Planning Your Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Secure Required Trekking Permits in Advance
  To trek the Annapurna Circuit, you must obtain the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card, as the route passes through a protected conservation area of Nepal. These permits are mandatory and checked at multiple points along the trail.

• Prepare a Season-Appropriate Packing List
  A well-planned packing list is essential for a comfortable Annapurna Circuit trek. Include layered clothing suitable for high altitudes, quality trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag, personal first-aid supplies, and weather-specific gear depending on the season you choose.

• Pack Light and Follow Ethical Porter Guidelines
  Avoid carrying unnecessary items. Ethical porter practices limit the weight a porter can carry, usually shared between two trekkers. Packing light not only supports responsible tourism but also makes your trekking experience more enjoyable.

• Understand Local Culture and Traditions
  The Annapurna Circuit passes through Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali villages. Learning basic greetings like “Namaste” and respecting local customs, monasteries, and dress codes enhances cultural connection and mutual respect.

• Hire a Licensed Guide for Safety and Better Experience
  Solo trekking is restricted in Nepal, and hiring a licensed Annapurna Circuit trekking guide is highly recommended. A local guide ensures safe navigation, proper acclimatization, cultural insight, and quick response in case of emergencies.

• Start Physical Preparation Early
  The Annapurna Circuit trek is moderately to strenuous, especially due to altitude and long walking days. Begin fitness preparation weeks in advance with cardio, strength training, and regular hikes to build endurance and confidence.

Annapurna Circuit Festivals & Events

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit is not only a journey through dramatic Himalayan landscapes but also an opportunity to experience Nepal’s rich cultural calendar. Depending on the season, trekkers may encounter local festivals, religious rituals, and village celebrations that add deep cultural meaning to the trek.

• Dashain Festival (September–October)
  Nepal’s biggest Hindu festival, celebrated with family gatherings, blessings, and traditional rituals. During Dashain, villages along the Annapurna Circuit feel festive, offering trekkers a rare glimpse into local life and traditions.

• Tihar Festival – Festival of Lights (October–November)
  Tihar brings colorful decorations, oil lamps, flower garlands, and cultural songs to homes and lodges along the trail. Trekking during Tihar offers a warm, joyful atmosphere and close interaction with local communities.

• Yartung Festival in Mustang (August)
  Celebrated mainly in Upper Mustang, the Yartung Festival features traditional horse racing, archery, dancing, and music. Trekkers finishing the circuit toward Jomsom or Muktinath may experience echoes of this vibrant Tibetan-influenced celebration.

• Buddhist Ceremonies & Monastery Rituals (Year-round)
  Along the Annapurna Circuit, especially in Manang and Mustang regions, trekkers may witness daily Buddhist prayers, chanting, and rituals in monasteries, chortens, and prayer halls, adding spiritual depth to the journey.

• Local Village Festivals & Seasonal Celebrations
  Smaller community festivals tied to harvest seasons, lunar calendars, and religious events take place throughout the year. These intimate celebrations offer authentic cultural encounters rarely found on standard sightseeing tours.

Why Trek Annapurna Circuit with Himalayan Dream Team

• Licensed local guides

• Ethical porter practices

• Proper acclimatization plans

• Transparent pricing

• Deep cultural insights

We design treks based on season, experience level, and comfort, ensuring safety and unforgettable Himalayan experiences.