Annapurna Circuit Trekking Weather & Temperature (Month by Month)
March 21, 2025
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most famous trekking routes, offering diverse landscapes and stunning Himalayan views. However, the weather varies throughout the year, affecting trekking conditions. Here is a detailed breakdown of the weather, temperature, and trekking experience for each month.
January – Extreme Cold and Snowy Conditions
Weather & Temperature
January is the coldest month on the Annapurna Circuit. The entire region experiences extreme cold, especially at higher altitudes. Snowfall is common above 3,500m, making trekking conditions difficult. The sky is mostly clear, offering excellent mountain views, but days are short.
Lower region (Besisahar, Chame, Pisang – Below 3,000m):
Day: 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F)
Night: -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F)
Mid-altitude (Manang, Yak Kharka – 3,000m to 4,500m):
Day: -5°C to 3°C (23°F to 37°F)
Night: -15°C to -8°C (5°F to 17°F)
High altitude (Thorong La Pass – 5,416m):
Day: -10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F)
Night: -20°C to -15°C (-4°F to 5°F)
Trekking Conditions
Snow blocks high passes, especially Thorong La Pass, making the crossing very difficult.
Teahouses in higher regions may close due to extreme cold.
Only experienced trekkers with proper gear should attempt this trek in January.
Fewer trekkers, offering solitude on the trail.
February – Cold But Improving
Weather & Temperature
February remains very cold, but the weather is slightly more stable. Snowfall still occurs at high altitudes, and some trails remain icy.
Lower region:6°C to 13°C (43°F to 55°F) during the day, -4°C to 0°C (25°F to 32°F) at night
Mid-altitude:-4°C to 5°C (25°F to 41°F) during the day, -12°C to -8°C (10°F to 18°F) at night
High altitude:-8°C to -4°C (18°F to 25°F) during the day, -18°C to -14°C (0°F to 7°F) at night
Trekking Conditions
Snow is still present at higher elevations.
Thorong La Pass may still be closed due to deep snow.
Days are slightly longer, making trekking easier.
Few trekkers on the trail, offer a peaceful experience.
March – Beginning of Spring
Weather & Temperature
March marks the start of spring, bringing warmer temperatures and longer days. The snow begins to melt, making higher passes more accessible.
Lower region:10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) during the day, 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) at night
Mid-altitude:1°C to 8°C (34°F to 46°F) during the day, -8°C to -4°C (17°F to 25°F) at night
High altitude:-6°C to -2°C (21°F to 28°F) during the day, -15°C to -10°C (5°F to 14°F) at night
Trekking Conditions
Clear skies and great views of the mountains.
Thorong La Pass becomes passable, but caution is needed.
Wildflowers start blooming in lower regions.
Crowds start to increase, as many trekkers begin their journey.
April – Best Time for Trekking
Weather & Temperature
April is one of the best months to trek the Annapurna Circuit. The weather is stable, and the trails are filled with blooming rhododendrons.
Lower region:12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) during the day, 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at night
Mid-altitude:4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F) during the day, -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F) at night
High altitude:-2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) during the day, -10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F) at night
Trekking Conditions
Perfect weather for trekking with clear skies.
Thorong La Pass is fully accessible.
Busy season, so booking accommodations in advance is recommended.
May: Warm Temperatures & Pre-Monsoon Conditions
Weather & Temperature
May is the last month of the spring trekking season before the monsoon begins. The weather is warm, and the skies are still mostly clear, but occasional rain showers may occur, especially towards the end of the month. The days are long, making trekking more enjoyable.
Lower Elevations (1,000m – 2,500m): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day, 7°C to 12°C (44°F to 54°F) at night.
Mid-Elevations (2,500m – 4,000m): 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F) during the day, 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) at night.
High Altitudes (4,000m – 5,416m): 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F) during the day, -6°C to -2°C (21°F to 28°F) at night.
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Ideal for trekking—warm days and cool nights.
Some afternoon clouds and light rain showers may appear towards the end of the month.
Thorong La Pass (5,416m) remains open, but occasional snow patches may still be present.
Less wind compared to winter, making the trek more comfortable.
The risk of altitude sickness remains the same, so proper acclimatization is necessary.
Tea House Availability
All tea houses along the route are open, providing comfortable food and accommodation.
More crowded than winter but less busy compared to April.
Best for:
Trekkers who enjoy warm conditions and clear views.
Those who prefer less crowded trails than April but still want good weather.
Photographers—rhododendrons are still in bloom, and snow-capped peaks contrast beautifully with green landscapes.
May is an excellent month to trek before the monsoon arrives in June. However, trekkers should be prepared for slightly warmer and more humid conditions in lower elevations.
June: Start of the Monsoon Season – Warm & Wet
Weather & Temperature
June marks the beginning of the monsoon season in Nepal. The lower parts of the Annapurna Circuit receive frequent rainfall, making the trails muddy and slippery. However, the higher altitudes remain relatively dry with occasional rain showers. The skies are often cloudy, reducing the visibility of the mountains.
Lower Elevations (1,000m – 2,500m): 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F) during the day, 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at night.
Mid-Elevations (2,500m – 4,000m): 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) during the day, 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F) at night.
High Altitudes (4,000m – 5,416m): 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F) during the day, -2°C to 3°C (28°F to 37°F) at night.
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Frequent rain in the lower regions, especially in the afternoons.
Slippery and muddy trails—good trekking boots and rain gear are essential.
Leeches are common in the lower elevations, especially around forests and damp areas.
The Thorong La Pass (5,416m) remains open, but fog and rain may reduce visibility.
Landslides may occur in certain sections, especially between Jagat and Dharapani.
Tea House Availability
Tea houses remain open, but fewer trekkers mean more availability.
Some lodges may close temporarily if there are fewer visitors.
Best for:
Trekkers who don’t mind rain and humidity and prefer fewer crowds.
Experienced hikers prepared for muddy, slippery, and wet conditions.
Budget travelers—some lodges may offer discounts due to the low season.
June is not the best time for the Annapurna Circuit due to rain and cloudy skies, but the higher elevations remain drier and cooler. If you decide to trek, carry rain gear, and waterproof bags, and be prepared for unpredictable weather
July: Peak Monsoon – Heavy Rainfall & Humid Conditions
Weather & Temperature
July is one of the wettest months on the Annapurna Circuit. Rainfall is frequent in the lower and mid-latitude regions, while the higher elevations receive less rain but can still be affected by fog and occasional drizzles. The trails are often muddy, and the humidity is high.
Lower Elevations (1,000m – 2,500m): 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) during the day, 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F) at night.
Mid-Elevations (2,500m – 4,000m): 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) during the day, 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at night.
High Altitudes (4,000m – 5,416m): 6°C to 14°C (43°F to 57°F) during the day, 0°C to 4°C (32°F to 39°F) at night.
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Heavy rain in the lower and mid-elevations.
Very muddy, slippery trails, with an increased risk of landslides in areas like Tatopani to Dana, Chame to Pisang, and Jagat to Dharapani.
Leeches are a common nuisance in forested areas.
Thorong La Pass is open, but visibility may be poor due to clouds and fog.
Tea House Availability
Most tea houses remain open but less crowded due to fewer trekkers.
Some tea houses in lower-altitude areas may close due to landslides or road damage.
Best for:
Trekkers looking for a quiet experience and fewer crowds.
Adventure seekers are comfortable with rain and challenging terrain.
Budget travelers, as tea houses may offer discounts.
Verdict: July is not ideal due to heavy rainfall, leeches, and landslides, but experienced trekkers prepared for wet conditions may still enjoy the trek.
August: End of Monsoon – Wet & Cloudy, But Improving
Weather & Temperature
August is still rainy and humid, but towards the end of the month, the rainfall starts to decrease. The trails remain wet and slippery, but higher altitudes start getting clearer skies.
Lower Elevations (1,000m – 2,500m): 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F) during the day, 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F) at night.
Mid-Elevations (2,500m – 4,000m): 13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F) during the day, 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at night.
High Altitudes (4,000m – 5,416m): 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F) during the day, -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F) at night.
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Still rainy and humid, but less intense than July.
Slippery trails and occasional landslides remain a concern.
Better visibility in the second half of the month.
Thorong La Pass remains open, but fog and occasional snow may occur.
Tea House Availability
Tea houses are open, but some may be temporarily closed due to low demand.
Easier to find accommodation, as there are fewer trekkers.
Best for:
Trekkers who want fewer crowds and are comfortable with some rain.
Photographers, as landscapes turn lush and green after months of rain.
Budget trekkers, since some lodges may offer discounts.
Verdict: Not the best time, but better than July. Expect wet conditions, but clear skies begin to return at higher altitudes.
September: Start of Autumn – Clearer Skies & Perfect for Trekking
Weather & Temperature
September marks the beginning of the best trekking season in Nepal. The monsoon fades away, bringing clear skies, fresh air, and spectacular mountain views. The temperature is mild, making it one of the best months to trek.
Lower Elevations: 16°C to 24°C (61°F to 75°F) during the day, 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F) at night.
Mid-Elevations: 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F) during the day, 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F) at night.
High Altitudes: 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F) during the day, -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F) at night.
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Clear skies & excellent visibility.
Thorong La Pass is fully open in good condition.
Mild temperatures, make trekking comfortable.
Trails may still be slightly muddy at lower elevations in early September.
Tea House Availability
All tea houses are open and start getting busy again.
Booking in advance is recommended for popular villages.
Verdict:One of the best months to trek.
October: Peak Season – Perfect Weather & Crowded Trails
Weather & Temperature
Lower Elevations: 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F), 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F) at night.
Mid-Elevations: 6°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F), -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) at night.
High Altitudes: -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F), -8°C to -3°C (17°F to 27°F) at night.
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Best time to trek with stable weather & clear skies.
Thorong La Pass is ideal for crossing.
Trails are crowded, and tea houses get full quickly.
Verdict:The best month for trekking but very crowded.
November: Cool & Clear – Another Best Month for Trekking
Weather & Temperature
Lower Elevations: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F).
Mid-Elevations: 4°C to 12°C (39°F to 54°F).
High Altitudes: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F).
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Stable weather & clear skies.
Cold nights but perfect trekking conditions.
Verdict:Best month to trek with fewer crowds than October.
December: Start of Winter – Cold & Snowy
Weather & Temperature
Lower Elevations: 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F).
Mid-Elevations: -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F).
High Altitudes: -10°C to -3°C (14°F to 27°F).
Trekking Conditions & Safety
Colder temperatures, especially at night.
Thorong La Pass may be blocked by snow.
Verdict: Trekking is still possible, but it’s very cold, and snow may block high passes.
Summary: Best Time to Trek Annapurna Circuit
Best Months: March, April, October, and November (Stable weather, clear views, comfortable temperatures)
Challenging Months: December, January, and February (Very cold, heavy snow, some teahouses closed)
Rainy Season: June, July, August (Monsoon rain, cloudy views, landslides in lower regions)