The Annapurna region is one of the major rain shadow areas in Nepal. As most part of the trail lies on the leeward side of the Annapurna mountains. This region receives only 10 % of the monsoon rainfall. The high-rising Annapurna Mountain range blocks the wind carrying monsoon winds and shower making it accessible all around the year. This makes it possible to trek encircling Annapurna Massif throughout the year.
You can find drastic changes in Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature from the lowest regions on the east to the higher northern side. The climate along with the temperature of the region advance to less degree with an increase in altitude. Usually, people start trekking from Besisahar. The weather is generally warm with lots of humidity in the air during the wet season. Skies are often obscured by clouds during this time of the year.
The daytime temperature hits 39°F to 89°F during the hot season on average. During the cold season, the average high temperature will not exceed 70°F. January 9, is the coldest day of the year. It has an average high temperature of 66°F and won’t get below 40°F.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature on Thorung La Pass (5416m), the highest point on the trail, may get harsh sometimes. Crossing this pass is quite challenging due to its unpredictable weather.
This guide gives you everything you need: season-by-season temperature breakdowns, altitude-specific conditions, month-by-month forecasts, and the insider tips that most blogs skip entirely. By the end, you'll know exactly when to go, what temperatures to prepare for, and how to make the most of whichever season you choose.
What is the weather like on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek features warm, temperate conditions in lower regions (15°C–25°C) and freezing temperatures near Thorong La Pass (-10°C to 5°C). The best trekking seasons are autumn (October–November) for stable skies and clear mountain views, and spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms and mild temperatures. Monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and landslide risks, while winter (December–February) offers solitude but extreme cold.
Understanding Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather and Temperature 2026
The Annapurna Circuit spans roughly 160 to 230 kilometers and passes through some of the most dramatically different climate zones you'll find on any trek in Nepal. You start in humid, subtropical lowlands and finish or cross high alpine terrain that sits on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. That's not just a change in scenery. It's a complete shift in weather, temperature, and trekking conditions at every stage.
Here's what makes the Annapurna region genuinely different from most other Nepal treks: a large portion of the trail sits in a rain shadow zone. The towering Annapurna massif Annapurna I through IV, along with Dhaulagiri and Manaslu blocks the monsoon winds arriving from the Bay of Bengal. Because of this, the northern sections of the circuit around Manang and Muktinath receive only around 10% of the monsoon rainfall that falls on the southern slopes. So yes, you can actually trek the Annapurna Circuit during monsoon season. It's not comfortable everywhere, but it's possible and that's not something you can say about most Himalayan routes.
Temperature varies dramatically with altitude across the circuit. The daytime temperature in the hot season at lower elevations averages between 39°F and 89°F (roughly 4°C to 32°C). In the cold season, the average high at lower elevations stays under 70°F (21°C). January 9 is statistically the coldest day on the circuit, with an average high of around 66°F (19°C) at the base and lows dropping to 40°F (4°C) and that's just at the trailhead. At higher altitudes in winter, you're looking at minus 20°C or worse.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather: The Four Seasons
The Annapurna region follows four distinct seasons. Each one delivers a completely different trekking experience different temperatures, different trail conditions, different crowds, and different mountain views. Understanding all four is how you choose the right time for your trek.
Spring Weather on the Annapurna Circuit Trek (March to May)
Spring is the second most popular trekking season on the Annapurna Circuit, and I'd argue it's actually the most visually spectacular time to go. The forests in the lower regions explode with rhododendron blooms in shades of red, pink, and white. The humidity is low, the skies stay relatively stable, and the trails are alive with color.
Temperature-wise, spring is moderate across most of the circuit. In lower areas between 800 and 2,000 meters, daytime temperatures sit comfortably between 15°C and 25°C. At night in lower regions, temperatures stay mild. But above 4,000 meters think Manang, Thorong Phedi, and Thorong La Pass itself mornings and evenings drop close to freezing, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C. The Muktinath region is noticeably drier, receiving little to no rainfall even in late spring.
By May, the weather starts warming at lower elevations and trail traffic picks up significantly as trekkers rush in before the monsoon begins. If you want the blooms without the crowds, March and early April are your sweet spot.
What to expect on the trail in spring: comfortable walking temperatures during the day, cold nights above 3,500 meters, occasional afternoon clouds at lower elevations in late May, and exceptional mountain views of the Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri range. Cotton and linen layers work well in the lower, drier sections. Above 4,000 meters, switch to thermal base layers and a proper down jacket for mornings and evenings
Planning a spring trek? Browse our Annapurna Circuit Trek packages and find an itinerary that fits your pace and season.
Autumn Weather on the Annapurna Circuit Trek (September to November)
Autumn is the best season for the Annapurna Circuit trek and October, in particular, is as good as it gets. The monsoon clears by late September, the skies turn a clean, deep blue, and the views of Annapurna I through IV, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri come out in full force. These are the mountain views that end up on travel magazine covers, and you get them almost every single day in October.
Temperature in autumn sits in a genuinely comfortable range for trekking. In lower regions, average daytime temperatures run from 15°C to 23°C. Above 4,000 meters, expect daily highs under 10°C and nights that can drop well below freezing near Thorong La Pass and Thorong Phedi. At Thorong La itself 5,416 meters nighttime and early morning temperatures regularly fall below zero, and wind chill makes it feel significantly colder.
September deserves a separate mention. Early September still carries some residual monsoon moisture, with light rain possible in the lower sections. But the trails are far less crowded than October, and the post-rain landscape is incredibly lush. From mid-September onward, conditions improve rapidly. If you prefer fewer people on the trail and don't mind a slightly damp start, September is a genuinely underrated choice.
By November, temperatures begin dropping noticeably at higher elevations. The crowds thin out from the October peak, which makes for a more peaceful experience. But pack warm nights above 3,500 meters in late November can get brutal.
One thing worth knowing: weather is unpredictable at altitude all year round, and even in the best autumn weeks, conditions on Thorong La can shift quickly. Starting the pass crossing early before 9 AM is non-negotiable. Cold, stormy winds typically pick up after that window.
October and November fill up fast. Contact Index Adventure to secure your Annapurna Circuit Trek dates before the season books out.
Monsoon Weather on the Annapurna Circuit Trek (June to August)
Monsoon season runs from mid-June through early September, and for most Nepal treks, this is simply off-season. The Annapurna Circuit is different but only partially. Because most of the trail lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna range, the northern and higher sections remain relatively dry even at the peak of monsoon. Manang, Muktinath, and the Thorong La area receive dramatically less rainfall than the southern lower trail.
That said, the southern lower sections around Besisahar and the trail leading up through Jagat and Dharapani can get genuinely messy. Heavy rainfall causes muddy, slippery trails, and the risk of landslides and mudslides in these areas is real. The Prithvi Highway connecting Kathmandu and Pokhara also sees frequent landslide blockages during monsoon. If you're trekking in July or August, build in flexibility for road disruptions.
Temperature during monsoon stays similar to spring in terms of averages. Lower regions sit between 15°C and 25°C. Higher sections remain cooler. But the humidity makes the lower trail feel much hotter and more draining. July is when the monsoon winds from the Bay of Bengal peak, bringing the heaviest rainfall, lightning, and thick snowfall at high elevations. The air turns heavy and humid after afternoon rainfall, and sudden weather changes are common and frequent.
Leeches are a real issue below 2,500 meters during this season. Good trekking boots with solid grip are essential. Mosquitoes are also more active in lower forested sections. Rain-protective gear quality waterproof jackets and gaiters is not optional.
The upside? The landscape is extraordinary. Waterfalls appear on every hillside, rivers run full and fast, the forests are deep green, and the trail feels genuinely wild. Crowds drop dramatically. If you want the Annapurna Circuit almost to yourself and you're prepared for the conditions, monsoon is a legitimate choice just not an easy one.
Winter Weather on the Annapurna Circuit Trek (December to February)
Winter on the Annapurna Circuit is cold, quiet, and genuinely beautiful if you're prepared for it. The skies are often crystal clear, the snow-covered peaks look incredible against the blue winter sky, and teahouses and trails are as uncrowded as they ever get. But the temperatures are serious, and the risks at higher elevations are real.
December is actually the most manageable winter month. Early December sits at the tail end of the trekking season, and Thorong La Pass still has reasonable odds of staying open. Lower regions see temperatures hovering around 5°C to 10°C on average. Nights are cold but survivable with the right gear.
January and February are the harshest months. Temperature at higher altitudes can drop to minus 20°C. Heavy snowfall can last up to 36 hours in prolonged conditions and has been known to close Thorong La entirely. The trail above Manang becomes genuinely challenging. Days are short darkness falls by around 5 PM in February which limits your safe trekking window.
At the lowest point of winter, January 9 statistically marks the coldest day of the year on the circuit. Average daytime temperatures at lower elevations still reach around 19°C (66°F), but nights drop to 4°C (40°F) at base and plummet well below that with altitude.
If you're trekking in winter, a sleeping bag rated to at least minus 20°C to minus 40°C is recommended. These can be hired in Kathmandu if you don't want to carry your own. Some teahouses at high elevations close for the season, so accommodation planning matters more than in other seasons. The reward for all this prep is a version of the Annapurna Circuit that very few trekkers ever see snow-filled trails, solitude, and mountain views with no haze.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather: Month-by-Month Temperature Summary
| Month | Season | Lower Region Temp (avg) | Higher Region Temp (4000m+) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Winter | 5°C–10°C | -15°C to -5°C | Very cold, possible snow closures |
| February | Winter | 5°C–12°C | -10°C to 0°C | Cold, transitional, Thorong La risk |
| March | Spring | 10°C–20°C | -5°C to 5°C | Improving, rhododendrons begin |
| April | Spring | 15°C–22°C | 0°C to 8°C | Ideal, clear skies, blooming trails |
| May | Spring | 18°C–25°C | 5°C to 10°C | Warmer, busier, pre-monsoon clouds |
| June | Monsoon | 20°C–28°C | 8°C to 15°C | Rain begins, lower trail muddy |
| July | Monsoon | 22°C–30°C | 10°C to 18°C | Heaviest rain, landslide risk |
| August | Monsoon | 20°C–28°C | 10°C to 15°C | Wet, lush, fewer trekkers |
| September | Autumn | 15°C–23°C | 5°C to 12°C | Clearing skies, light early rain |
| October | Autumn | 12°C–20°C | 0°C to 8°C | Best month, clear, stable, busy |
| November | Autumn | 8°C–18°C | -5°C to 5°C | Excellent, quieter, colder nights |
| December | Winter | 5°C–12°C | -10°C to 0°C | Cold, less crowded, pass still open |
Thorong La Pass Weather and Temperature: What to Expect at 5,416 Meters
Thorong La Pass is the highest point on the entire Annapurna Circuit and the single biggest weather variable on the trek. At 5,416 meters, it operates on its own climate entirely separate from what you're experiencing lower down the trail.
High wind is constant. Nights and mornings at Thorong La are below freezing in every season except the warmest weeks of May. In winter, temperatures at the pass can hit minus 20°C with wind chill pushing it lower. Even in October — the best trekking month of the year — mornings at Thorong Phedi (the base camp before the climb) are bitterly cold.
The universal rule: start your Thorong La crossing before sunrise, no later than 4 to 5 AM. Stormy winds pick up from around 9 AM onward and conditions deteriorate fast. Most trekkers who have a bad experience on the pass either started too late or skipped an acclimatization day in Manang. Don't skip the rest day in Manang. Altitude sickness is a genuine risk at this elevation, and proper acclimatization makes the difference between a hard but manageable crossing and a dangerous one.
Key Weather Tips for the Annapurna Circuit Trek
Layering is non-negotiable. Temperature changes rapidly with altitude — you might start a morning walk in a t-shirt at 2,000 meters and be reaching for your down jacket two hours later at 3,500 meters. Cotton and linen work in hot, dry lower sections. Synthetic base layers, fleece, and a waterproof shell are essential from Manang upward.
Check forecasts locally. Weather apps and global forecasts are useful but not precise enough at altitude. Ask teahouse owners and fellow trekkers at Manang about current conditions on Thorong La before attempting the crossing.
March, April, May, October, and November offer the most stable conditions on the circuit minimal rain, clear mountain views, and manageable temperatures across all elevations.
If you're trekking in monsoon, pack rain gear even for the northern sections. While the rain shadow protects Manang and Muktinath, lower trail sections can be genuinely hazardous. Research current local conditions before departure and keep flexible buffer days in your itinerary.
Winter trekkers should budget for a sleeping bag rated to -20°C minimum. Hire one in Kathmandu if you're not bringing your own.
Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek: A Quick Summary
| Season | Best For | Avoid If |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Blooms, moderate temps, scenic beauty | You dislike crowds in late April-May |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | Best visibility, stable weather, peak experience | You want solitude — October is busy |
| Monsoon (Jun–Aug) | Solitude, lush landscape, adventure | You're risk-averse or have a fixed schedule |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Quiet trails, snow scenery, unique experience | You're not an experienced cold-weather trekker |
Frequently Asked Questions: Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather
What is the best month for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
October is widely considered the best single month for the Annapurna Circuit trek. The monsoon has fully cleared, skies are stable and clear, temperatures across all elevations are comfortable for trekking, and mountain views of the Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri are at their most spectacular.
What temperature should I expect at Thorong La Pass?
At Thorong La Pass (5,416m), temperatures drop below freezing in all seasons except the warmest weeks of late April and May. In winter, the pass can reach -20°C. Even in October, early morning temperatures before dawn regularly fall below 0°C. Always start the crossing before sunrise.
Can you trek the Annapurna Circuit in monsoon season?
Yes. Because most of the northern Annapurna Circuit trail lies in a rain shadow zone, trekking is possible during monsoon. The southern lower sections face heavy rain, muddy trails, and landslide risk. The sections around Manang, Muktinath, and Thorong La receive significantly less rainfall, making the upper circuit manageable.
Is the Annapurna Circuit trek possible in winter?
Yes, but it requires experience and proper gear. December is the most accessible winter month, with Thorong La still likely to be open. January and February are the harshest months, with temperatures at high altitude dropping to -20°C and heavy snowfall occasionally closing the pass. A sleeping bag rated to -40°C is recommended.
How much does temperature change with altitude on the Annapurna Circuit?
Temperature drops by roughly 6°C to 7°C for every 1,000 meters of elevation gain. In practical terms, this means a 20°C day at Besisahar (760m) corresponds to approximately 5°C to 7°C at Manang (3,500m) and well below zero at Thorong La Pass (5,416m) on the same day.
What should I wear for the Annapurna Circuit trek weather?
Use a layering system. Cotton and linen work in hot, dry lower sections. From 3,000 meters upward, use moisture-wicking base layers, insulating fleece or down mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell. Warm gloves, a thermal hat, and quality trekking boots with good grip are essential for upper elevations in any season.
Does September offer good trekking conditions on the Annapurna Circuit?
September is a solid choice. Early September may still see light rain in lower sections as the monsoon wraps up, but conditions improve rapidly by mid-month. Mountain views improve week by week through September, and the trail is far less crowded than October, making it an appealing option for trekkers who prefer a quieter experience.
Final Thoughts: Planning Around Annapurna Circuit Weather
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the greatest long-distance treks in the world and the fact that it's genuinely accessible in all four seasons makes it uniquely flexible. Whether you choose the rhododendron-lined trails of spring, the crystal-clear skies of October, the wild solitude of monsoon, or the snow-covered quiet of winter, the circuit delivers. But the experience you get depends heavily on how well you understand the weather before you go.
Go in autumn if you want the best overall conditions. Go in spring if you want colour and slightly fewer crowds. Go in monsoon only if you're experienced and adaptable. Go in winter only if you're properly geared and ready for serious cold.
Whichever season you pick, the Annapurna region will give you something unforgettable. Plan smart, pack right, and the mountains will do the rest.
Ready to book your Annapurna Circuit Trek? Contact Index Adventure our team will help you build the right itinerary for your season, pace, and budget. Email us at indexadventure@gmail.com or explore our Annapurna Circuit Trek packages directly.
