Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature by month
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in January
By doing the Annapurna Circuit in January, you will dive into the heart of winter's grip. This time of the year sees freezing temperatures, which makes the region a winter wonderland with giant snow-capped peaks and icy trails. The upper part of the Annapurna Circuit trail experiences bone-chilling daytime temperatures, ranging from 1°C to a frigid -10°C.
The nighttime and morning are much colder as the temperature plunges even lower. However, the lower part of the trail offers a bit more respite, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 12°C. Even though the cold is at its peak in January, trekking Annapurna Circuit during this month offers a serene trail with fewer trekkers.
The Manang Valley, Nepal
January is an off time for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Therefore, accommodation is also more readily available and at a cheap cost. As the day continues, you will get a crystal clear sky with stunning mountain vistas. However, the daytime is on the shorter side, so you have to start trekking early.
Likewise, Thorong La pass may be inaccessible in January, so you have to do proper research. Overall, the Annapurna Circuit trek in January demands meticulous preparation, particularly in terms of clothing. The risk factors are high in this month, and so are the rewards. You have to be much more careful and attentive.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in February
February starts the end of the winter season. The weather is cold and unpredictable in this month as well, however the hint of spring begins to show towards the end of the month. The daylight hours gradually begin to increase as the days pass by, and the climate, especially at the lower elevation, starts to warm up.
You may come across occasional heavy snowfalls. The trails and mountains are covered with blankets of snow. The views can be obstructed on some days, but overall, the landscapes are clear. Likewise, the rivers, streams, and waterfalls also begin to thaw towards the end of the month.
In February, the temperature along the Annapurna Circuit trail ranges between -1°C to a frosty -14°C, but it gets better. As this is the last month of the winter season and also experiences a transitional time, the weather is very unpredictable. Annapurna Circuit trek gets very demanding in February because of added weather challenges.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in March
March brings a refreshing shift to the Annapurna Circuit trail. It is the start of the spring season and stable weather. Known for its gentle climate and vibrant landscapes, this month offers a delightful blend of warmth and natural beauty. In short, March is one of the best times of the year to do the Annapurna Circuit trekking.
With the beginning of March, the winter gradually begins to fade away. The trekking route is thriving with vegetation and different shades of rhododendrons. You can see trees with little leaves, showcasing the arrival of life once again. The temperature sees a gradual rise, making trekking a bit comfortable.
The Manang Village in Annapurna Circuit Trail
In the lower regions, daytime temperatures range from a mild 4°C to a cool -8°C. During midday, the temperature reaches up to 10°C. However, the nights and mornings are still cold with crisp air. The snow and ice along the way melts, and the Annapurna Circuit trail is all open to welcome trekkers.
Note that there is little chance of snowfall in March too, so you have to be well prepared. The mountain views are clear and stunning. The daylight hours increase, giving you more time to enjoy the journey. For those embarking on the Annapurna Circuit in March, the weather promises an enjoyable and rejuvenating trekking experience.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in April
In April, the Annapurna Circuit trail has the best weather, climate, views, and vegetation. The region is mostly warmed up, but you can still feel a hint of cold in the air. You have to carry a few warm pieces to wear during the Annapurna Circuit trek in April. As the sky remains clear in this month, the mountain views are uninterrupted.
Likewise, April is one of the busiest months for trekking. The Annapurna Circuit sees many adventure lovers, so booking accommodation early is necessary. Though the upper part of the trail has a cold climate, the lower elevation sees the temperature up to 20°C during the daytime. Generally, temperature ranges from -4°C to 8°C.
The rivers, streams, and waterfalls all are back to life. The entire trail is blooming with wildflowers and dense vegetation. You will have long daylight hours and less humidity. April is a great time to embark on the Annapurna Circuit trek because of its moderate climate, breathtaking scenery, and best trail conditions.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in May
In the lower part of Nepal, the temperature exponentially rises by the end of the first week of May. However, the mountain region still experiences spring. May is the last month of the spring season and also a transitional period to summer/monsoon. The trail begins to empty in May, so you will enjoy tranquility. The temperature rises, and nature reaches its full bloom.
May presents favorable trekking conditions, with daytime temperature ranging from a comfortable 14°C to a refreshing 0°C in the higher regions. Likewise, the lower part of the trail sees a temperature between 18°C to 20°C. Despite the pleasant daytime temperature, nights in May retain a hint of chill, with average temperatures dropping to around 5°C.
The Marpha Village on the Annapurna circuit trail, Nepal
In May, the sky is clear, and there is abundant sunshine. The trekking route is in great condition. You have to dress up in layers and remove them as the climate demands. With that being said, the Thorong La pass remains cold even during this month. Cloud cover may occasionally obscure the mountain vistas.
Additionally, towards the end of May, irregular rainfall may occur, so make sure to pack waterproof gear. The humidity gradually increases as the month goes towards the end. Overall, May offers trekkers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of the Annapurna region in full bloom.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in June
June is the first month of summer/monsoon season. These two seasons go hand in hand, so the weather is quite unpredictable. Not many trekkers do the Annapurna Circuit trek in June because of unstable weather. In the lower regions of the circuit, temperatures range from a balmy 16°C to a scorching 30°C.
Likewise, the temperature ranges around -3°C to -4°C in the upper part of the trail. The landscape transforms into lush vegetation, bright days, and high humidity. The region sees occasional rainfalls. The trail condition gradually begins to deteriorate because of rainfalls. You may not get to see mountain views all the time.
Nevertheless, for true adventurers, June is an opportunity to undertake the added weather challenge. Overall, this month is not an ideal time for the Annapurna Circuit trekking. However, if you are into biodiversity, then it is one of the best months to explore the Annapurna Circuit.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in July
By July, the monsoon season starts all over the country, including the Annapurna Circuit trail. The rainfall increases, and the temperature drops around 6°C to 18°C with an average of 12°C. The number of trekkers in this month is a handful to zero, so the trekking trails are empty and peaceful.
Because of the rain, the trail gets slippery and muddy with leeches and mosquitoes, particularly in bushy areas. Likewise, the risk of landslides also increases. Some sections of the trail may get closed due to landslides as well. The weather is unpredictable in July, and the days can get gloomy or sunny.
The relentless rainfall, driven by the winds from the Bay of Bengal, results in continuous downpours throughout the month, often shrouding the mountains in clouds and obscuring the breathtaking views. While the days may be damp and rainy, a few warm layers are needed in the evening and morning.
Despite the challenging weather, with proper gear and precautions, adventurous trekkers can still experience the thrill of the Annapurna Circuit trek in July. Extra caution is required.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in August
August is another summer/monsoon month. Rainfall, hotness, and humidity, everything is high. The rainfalls are heavy and frequent. The persistent rain keeps the atmosphere chilly and moist. As this month progresses, temperatures gradually rise, typically ranging from around 19°C to 23°C. On a good note, August is also the last month of this season.
Himalayan view on Ghorepani Poon Hill!
The risk of periodic landslides and erosions is high in August, so trekkers have to be much more careful. The Annapurna Circuit trail is in its worst condition during this month, and the challenges add up. The sky is mostly cloudy, blocking the view. The daylight hours get small, and you have to plan everyday walking as per the weather conditions on that day.
There are almost no trekkers, and some tea houses may get closed. The price is also low for accommodation and meals. On the bright side, the vegetation, rivers, waterfalls, and streams are thriving in August. If you are thinking of doing the Annapurna Circuit trek in August, you have to be very well-prepared and assess the trail condition.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in September
September starts the beginning of Autumn along the Annapurna Circuit trail. It is also a peak trekking season, and many trekkers do this trek in this season. During the first two weeks of this month, the weather is quite unstable, and you may see occasional downpours. However, as the day passes by, the weather gets stable, and the trail condition improves.
By mid-September, the landscape begins to transform, unveiling crystal-clear vistas. With the departure of the summer/monsoon, temperatures begin to drop, ranging from approximately 17°C to 4°C. At Thorong La pass, the temperature hovers around -4°C. The entire trail is open with tea houses ready to welcome trekkers once again.
Despite being the first month of Autumn, occasional overcast skies may obstruct some mountain views. Nevertheless, the terrain, saturated by the monsoon rains, bursts with vibrant greenery, offering enchanting panoramas at every turn. As the days progress, the weather improves steadily, with late September boasting clear skies and sunny days ideal for trekking.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in October
October is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit trek. This month offers a blend of stable weather and breathtaking vistas. With minimal to no rainfall, October promises unobstructed views of the majestic mountains as clear skies prevail throughout the region. Trekking becomes much more delightful because of the moderate climate.
While the lower regions of the circuit boast mild temperatures, averaging around 15°C during the day, the higher altitudes offer cooler climates, with freezing temperatures greeting trekkers in the early mornings and evenings. The temperature ranges from 7°C to 8°C during the night. At Thorong La pass, the temperature drops further.
Warm clothing pieces are necessary if you are trekking in October. The trail flourishes with seasonal vegetation, gushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and trekkers from all around the world. The atmosphere is quite vibrant and inspiring. Overall, the Annapurna Circuit trek experience is fantastic in October. This month is perfect for nature lovers.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in November
November is the last month in the autumn season and also the last-best month of the year for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Trekkers get another excellent window to explore the Annapurna Circuit's rugged beauty. Much like October, November presents favorable weather conditions with clear blue skies, warm sunlight, and jaw-dropping mountain panoramas.
There is no rainfall or snowfall in November, which ensures a hassle-free trekking experience. The average daytime temperature ranges around 15°C. The night and morning sees temperatures around 7°C to 8°C. Moreover, the temperature further plunges as low as -5°C at Thorong La pass.
Annapurna circuit trekking trail!
This notable contrast between daytime and nighttime temperatures shows the need for proper clothing and gear. While November starts comfortably, the weather gets colder towards the end of the month. You will get ample daylight hours to enjoy the journey. The scenery is phenomenal, along with the overall trekking experience.
Annapurna Circuit trek weather and temperature in December
December is the last month of the year and also the beginning of the winter season. It marks the start of an off-season for Annapurna Circuit trekking. However, during the first two weeks of December you can do this trek. The weather gradually gets unstable, but the journey is still manageable.
As the coldest season descends upon the region, the snowfall begins to cover the region slowly. Winter unfolds as the driest season, with little to no rainfall. Temperatures begin to plummet, with the average daytime temperature ranging from 10°C to 5°C. Nights become bitterly cold, dipping as low as -5°C, particularly in areas above 4000 meters.
The trail is empty, so if you love tranquility, you can consider doing the Annapurna Circuit trek in December. However, trekkers must be prepared for the difficulties posed by snow-covered terrain. The days are mostly clear, with great mountain views. There is a very special smell in the air, which indicates the upcoming winter.
Conclusion
I hope that the above article is helpful to make your decision which time to choose to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek. We have few packages on Annapurna Circuit trail and some of them are Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek, Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit, Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit and short Annapurna circuit trek.
