Best Time to Trek Annapurna — Month-by-Month Weather & Season Guide 2026

The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek depends completely on what you want from your Himalayan adventure. Some trekkers seek perfect weather,  some of them prefer quiet trails with snow-covered peaks, some want to meet new people, whereas some want to enjoy different cultures and traditions. It is totally your choice to choose which season gives you every aspect of luxury for your trek.

If you want to find the detailed weather information for every month of 2026 for the Annapurna Trek, you are on the right page.

You'll also learn about temperature ranges, rainfall patterns, and visibility conditions here. We cover both the Annapurna Base Camp and Circuit treks across all four seasons through this guide.

Himalayan Odyssey will help you match your trekking goals with the right season. You'll discover where to find clear mountain views, cultural festivals, and budget-friendly prices. By the end, you'll know exactly when to book your Annapurna trek journey..

Understanding Annapurna's Climate Zones

The Annapurna region offers multiple climate zones within a short distance. As you go higher, it will create dramatic weather changes, which might be a new feeling for you. So, it is always best to understand these climatic zones. It helps you prepare for what lies ahead of your Annapurana trek.

The lower region from Pokhara to Chhomrong sits in a close subtropical zone. Here, temperatures stay warm throughout most of the year. You will enjoy the lush forests that thrive in such beautiful environment. In case of rain, there are certain months or seasons that you will read below. 

Likewise, the mid-zone in Annapurna covers areas like Deurali and Manang with temperate alpine conditions. The more you climb up, the more the temperature decreases..

The air becomes thinner, and nights turn cold. Vegetation changes from dense forests to scattered shrubs.

Similarly, the high zone includes Annapurna Base Camp and Thorong La Pass with subarctic conditions. The nights at Annapurna are very cold throughout the year. Snow can fall during any month. Vegetation disappears completely at these elevations. It’s always a surprise about Annapurna’s climate most of the time.

The main factor that affects the climate at Annapurna is altitude. Each 1,000-meter gain in elevation typically means a 6-degree temperature drop. This pattern is the same across all seasons. This is why you need to understand the relationship of climate and altitude. You will pack better. You will stay safe and can enjoy the trek without problems if you are completely prepared.

For more details on how altitude impacts your body during the trek, check our Annapurna Altitude & Acclimatization Guide.

The Two Golden Trekking Seasons in Annapurna

There are two different seasons that offer the best conditions for the Annapurna trek. They are the Spring and Autumn seasons. These two time frames give the trekkers stable weather and clear visibility for the trek. You will get comfortable temperatures. This is the main reason most trekkers choose these two seasons for their Annapurna journey. Let’s see what these two seasons have to offer:

Spring (March–May) — Rhododendron Blooms & Clear Views

Spring turns the Annapurna region into a beautiful natural display. You will enjoy the Rhododendron forests, colored with red, pink, and white flowers across the hillsides. The flowers bloom during late March and continue through April.

The weather remains stable and predictable throughout spring. Lower zones enjoy comfortable daytime temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. Nights at Annapurna Base Camp drop to around -5°C. Most days bring sunshine with occasional afternoon clouds, which is good.

The post-winter atmosphere creates beautiful visibility across the region. You will see the mountain peaks appear sharp and detailed from great distances. This clarity makes spring perfect for photographers. If you are looking for the best shots, spring is for you. Even the  Botanists look to this season to study diverse plant life.

Tea houses fill quickly during autumn and spring. They are the peak seasons. It is best to make an early booking. This secures accommodation along the route. However, prices may increase slightly compared to off-season rates due to high demand. You'll share the trails with trekkers from around the world.

Spring is for both first-time visitors and experienced mountain trekkers. The moderate weather makes daily walking more enjoyable. Physical demands feel less extreme in comfortable temperatures.

Want to know how much your spring trek will cost? Visit our Annapurna Cost Breakdown 2026 page for detailed pricing.

Autumn (September–November) — The Classic Trekking Window

Autumn is the most popular season for the Annapurna Base Camp trek weather. The monsoon season ends by early September. Then you will see the fresh, clear air that replaces the heavy moisture of summer.

Daytime temperatures stay comfortable in the 15°C to 20°C range at lower elevations. Nights cool down to around -5°C at high camps. Dry conditions continue throughout the season. Rain becomes rare after mid-September.

Post-monsoon visibility reaches its annual peak during these months. You can see distant peaks clearly from 50 kilometers away. The sky turns a deep, vibrant blue, which is a treat to your eyes.

Both the Annapurna Base Camp and Circuit treks operate perfectly during autumn. Trails dry out completely after monsoon rains. The rivers have calmed down from their flood levels. All tea houses and lodges are open for business.

Nepal's major festivals add extra beauty to this trek. The cultural richness of autumn treks is magical. Dashain usually falls in October, followed by Tihar two weeks later. You might also join local celebrations in mountain villages. Tea houses serve special festival foods during this time.

October sees the highest number of trekkers on the Annapurna trails. It’s best if you make an early booking. The crowds reflect just how excellent the conditions are.

Ready to experience autumn in the Himalayas? Join our October 2026 departures for the best Annapurna Circuit best time experience.

Shoulder & Off-Seasons — For Solitude Seekers

Peak seasons attract most trekkers to Annapurna. However, shoulder and off-seasons offer different rewards for travelers who want chills and thrills. These periods bring unique experiences, even if they face additional challenges in their way. 

Winter (December–February) — Quiet Trails, Snow Magic

Winter brings the best peace unexpectedly to the Annapurna trails throughout the region. Most trekkers avoid these cold months. You might walk for hours without meeting  another person on the path. It is that quiet and beautiful.

Annapurna Base Camp remains accessible during most of the winter. However, the heavy snowfall can temporarily close the trail. So, just make sure you always check current conditions before starting your trek to Annapurna. The Circuit's Thorong La Pass frequently closes from mid-January through February. Deep snowfall makes crossing too dangerous during this period.

Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C in lower areas. Night temperatures drop slowly and become colder. Expect temperatures around -10°C or lower at high altitudes. Clear skies are not seen on most days. Fresh snow blankets the peaks and upper trail sections.

Winter is best suited for experienced trekkers. They are comfortable with cold-weather challenges. The landscape takes on a magical quality under snow cover. Photographers capture stunning winter scenes. Sunrise and sunset colors change dramatically in the cold, dry atmosphere.

Always carry an extra warm gear for safety. Sleeping bags rated for -15°C or colder become necessary for trekkers.

Shorter routes offer better winter ways if extreme cold concerns you.

You can reach out to  Mardi Himal and Ghorepani Poon Hill stay. They are more accessible. Learn about these options in our Short Treks in Annapurna Region guide.

Monsoon (June–August) — Green Valleys & Hidden Beauty

Monsoon season keeps most trekkers away from the Annapurna Trek. You will experience heavy rainfall below 3,000 meters throughout this period. Trails turn muddy and slippery. Leeches are everywhere in forest sections. Landslides frequently block roads and paths.

The monsoon also reveals unique beauty rarely seen otherwise. Valleys transform into rich and beautiful green landscapes. Waterfalls fall below with great power. Wildflowers bloom everywhere across hillsides. The entire region is amazing to see, creating a vibrant life.

Upper Mustang and northern Circuit sections are free from rain shadow protection. These areas receive quite less rainfall than the southern slopes. Manang and areas beyond stay relatively dry. You can successfully trek these sections during the monsoon months. But make sure you are safely equipped.

Regarding Monsoon trekking, it demands extra preparation and flexibility. Everything needs waterproof protection. Leech socks and anti-leech spray become necessary equipment. Your schedule must remain flexible for weather-related changes. You need buffer days. The conditions can force unexpected route adjustments and can extend.

Only experienced trekkers should go for such monsoon adventures. The risk level increases very much during this season. However, accepting these challenges rewards you with nearly empty trails. It gets very quiet and hospitable.

Interested in rain-shadow trekking options? Read our complete Annapurna Circuit Route Guide for detailed information.

Month-by-Month Weather Overview (2026 Forecast)

The table below shows expected conditions for each month. Use this information to plan your specific trek dates for the Annapurna Trek:

The above temperature ranges represent the conditions in mid-elevation zones between 2,500-3,500 meters. Temperatures drop slowly and gradually at Annapurna Base Camp and Thorong La Pass. Each trek requires different preparation based on these monthly patterns.

In late October 2025, 35-year-old Nepali trekker Surajman Shrestha, who was on a solo journey from Kathmandu to the Annapurna Base Camp trail, died. He was caught with acute altitude sickness while resting at Deurali (around 3,200 meters) on October 24.

According to reports from OnlineKhabar English News, Shrestha had been trekking without a guide or group. This is a common but risky practice. He collapsed due to the rapid ascent and lack of acclimatization. This incident highlighted a risk in altitude-related fatalities on the ABC route during the peak autumn season. There were least six deaths were recorded in Kaski and Manang districts by early November. This shows the dangers of solo trekking in high-altitude areas without proper preparation.

For more details, check out the dangers of a solo trip in the Annapurna Region.

If you want a safe and comfortable trek, you can trek with Himalayan Odyssey. We are happy to guide you on your adventurous journey.

Comparing Seasons  for Annapurna Base Camp vs Annapurna Circuit Treks

Different treks perform better during specific seasons. Your route choice should align with the time of year you plan to go.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is best from March through May. The spring months at a time if you want warm days and enjoy the blooming flowers everywhere. The trail remains safe and dry throughout this period.

October through December is the second-best time for  Base Camp. Post-monsoon clarity produces stunning mountain views. Early winter snow adds dramatic beauty without extreme cold. Tea houses stay open and fully stocked during these months.

June through August should be avoided for Base Camp treks. Heavy monsoon rainfall makes the southern approach dangerous. Landslide risk increases at the peak. You cannot see the views more clearly. Cloud cover reduces visibility to nearly zero on most days.

January and February work only for experienced winter trekkers. Snow and cold create problems during these months. Several tea houses close during deep winter. You need warm gear and mountain experience for Annapurna Base Camp.

Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit offers more seasonal flexibility than Base Camp. March through May is the best time for the complete circuit. Spring conditions suit both sides of the route. The Thorong La Pass at Circuit remains open and can be passed safely.

Similarly, September through November is the peak season for the Annapurna Circuit. Clear weather and stable conditions make crossing Thorong La straightforward. Most trekkers choose these months for their journey.

The Circuit provides one great monsoon advantage over Annapurna Base Camp. The northern section from Manang to Jomsom sits in a rain shadow zone. You can successfully trek this area during July and August. 

Starting from Besisahar and finishing at Jomsom works well. Avoiding the southern return during heavy rains keeps you safe on this season.

Comparison Table for Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit

Want to know more about these famous routes?

 Check out What Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek? and our Annapurna Circuit Trek Guide for complete details.

Factors Influencing When to Trek

Weather alone doesn't determine the best trek timing. There are several other factors that play important roles in creating your amazing experience in the Annapurna region. Some are listed below:

Festival Seasons

Nepal celebrates its major festivals during the autumn months. Dashain occurs in October each year. It is one of the main festivals of Hindus. After that, there is Tihar. It is two weeks after Dashain. These festivals bring vibrant color and joy to mountain villages.

Tea house families often return to their home villages for celebrations. You might receive invitations to participate in ceremonies. Local food becomes more varied and special during festival periods. These cultural experiences add meaningful depth to your trek.

Spring brings Holi, the colorful festival of spring. This celebration happens in March throughout Nepal. Everyone celebrates this festival with music, dancing, and colored powder. Being in Nepal during Holi creates memorable experiences on any trek and not just Annapurna.

Photography & Landscapes

Photographers develop a strong choice for specific months. Spring light adds color to the rhododendron forests beautifully. Green landscapes create a striking contrast against white peaks. The combination produces very beautiful images.

Post-monsoon clarity from September through November gives you the majestic mountain views. The atmosphere holds minimal moisture. You can capture distant peaks with remarkable detail. Sunrise and sunset colors become incredibly intense.

Winter provides unique opportunities for snow photography. Fewer trekkers mean empty trails .f Cold air maintains clear conditions. Snow-covered landscapes appear beautiful and untouched.

Budget & Availability

Your available budget might determine when you can trek. Prices drop easily during the monsoon and winter months. It is the off-season of the year. There are very few trekkers. Tea houses offer discounts to attract the few trekkers who come here. Guide and porter rates also decrease during these two seasons..

Peak season prices are in Autumn and Spring. The prices rise due to high demand across the region. Early booking helps lock in better rates. October fills up faster than all other months. March and April come close behind in popularity.

Off-season trekking might save enough money, but it adds weather-related challenges. You must not compromise it with safety. Sometimes paying more for favorable conditions makes better sense.

Read our complete Cost Breakdown 2026 for detailed seasonal pricing information.

Health & Safety

The weather directly impacts your health and safety throughout the Annapurna trek. Warm temperatures in spring and autumn reduce cold-related risks for trekkers. You need less extreme gear during these two seasons. Tea houses provide adequate warmth and shelter. You can simply say these two seasons are the best.

But in winter, cold increases the risks of frostbite and hypothermia. You must carry better equipment and clothing. Health problems from cold exposure develop faster at high altitude. Prevention becomes your primary safety concern. If you are a first-time trekker, simply don’t go.

Monsoon also has different health concerns to consider. You will find leeches everywhere. It can cause infections if not handled properly. Wet conditions lead to various foot problems. The roads are very slippery and wet. These slippery trails with no extra effort increase injury risk on steep sections.

The main concern you need to be afraid of is Altitude sickness. It is possible during any season. The high-altitude trekking is not a joke. However, rapid weather changes in winter or monsoon make the situation difficult for treatment options. Good weather provides more flexibility if medical problems develop. So , always be concerned about your safety and body.

Study our Difficulty & Safety Guide thoroughly before booking your trek.

Choosing the Right Time for Your Trekking Goals

You cannot simply pack your bags and start your trek journey. You have to schedule it. You have to know which is the best time to go. It should be your primary goal. This makes your journey comfortable, memorable, and safe.

Your current fitness level also influences timing decisions. Spring and autumn suit trekkers of all fitness levels. Winter and monsoon require better physical preparation overall. You'll face very difficult conditions with limited support options available in the Annapurna region.

It is best if you have previous mountain trekking experience. It really matters. If you are first-time Himalayan trekkers, you should stick to peak seasons. That would be Autumn and Spring. Experienced mountain travelers can handle it even in the off-season. They know how to adapt quickly to changing conditions as they have experience.

Off-Season Trekking Tips

Off-season treks is not easy. It requires additional preparation and precautions. These practical tips help you stay safe and comfortable during the Annapurna Trek journey. The main off-seasons are Winter and Monsoon.

Waterproof covers for your backpack become necessary during the monsoon. You have to pack all items inside dry bags. It gives you extra protection. Using  Anti-leech spray for boots and lower legs prevents problems on the route. It’s best if you apply it before entering any forest section.

You need very warm clothes and equipment in the winter season. It is very cold. This season is best only if you are an experienced trekker. If you want to enjoy peace, then go for it. A sleeping bag rated for -15°C or colder becomes necessary.

You need multiple layers of clothing. It works better than single thick items. Down jackets outperform synthetic materials in dry cold conditions. Hand warmers help comfort during early morning trail starts.

Flight and road status checks are really necessary during the off-season. At Monsoon, the flights may be canceled to Lukla and Jomsom. Also, if you talk about Winter, snow regularly blocks the Thorong La Pass for days. Your schedule must include buffer days for weather delays. The flexibility in time prevents frustration and keeps you safe.

Tea house availability drops slowly in off-season months. Some lodges close completely until spring returns. Others offer reduced menus and basic services only. So, make sure you're carrying emergency snacks with you. It becomes more important on the trail.

Carry a headlamp with extra batteries. It helps when tea houses close early on this trek.

Communication becomes more difficult during off-season periods. Fewer trekkers mean less information sharing on trails. Mobile signals remain weak in mountain areas. Make sure you also carry a satellite communicator for urgent situations at altitude.

Our Annapurna Packing & Preparation Guide covers seasonal gear requirements in complete detail.

Real-Time Weather & Forecast Tools

Modern technology helps you monitor Annapurna weather conditions accurately. If you have tools, it keeps you informed before and during your trek. There are less chances of getting lost on the trail.

The Nepal Department of Hydrology provides official government weather data. You can visit their website. It offers regional forecasts for mountain areas. Check their updates before your trek departure date to the Annapurna Region.

Windy.com shows you the detailed weather models specifically for mountain regions. You can view wind patterns at different altitudes above. This information helps to predict incoming storms and clear periods. The site updates forecasts every few hours. You should be updated.

Pokhara Airport METAR reports deliver current conditions for the Annapurna region. Aviation weather reports maintain very high accuracy standards. They include visibility, wind speed, and cloud cover data. Even Pilots rely on this information for flight decisions.

There is a Mountain Forecast, too. It is very good to know about high-altitude weather. They offer specific forecasts for Annapurna Base Camp and Thorong La Pass. You will get the detailed temperature, wind, and snow predictions from the Mountain forecast. This specialized service understands mountain weather patterns.

Himalayan Odyssey gives daily weather updates to all our trekkers before starting in the Annapurna Region.  Our team in Nepal monitors conditions throughout the year. We will inform you immediately if there are any major weather events. This support continues throughout your entire trek. Your problems are literally ours. We are concerned about your comfort and safety.

Don't forget to add a weather widget for weather updates.

Conclusion — When Annapurna Shines for You?

Every season has its own unique aspects of the Annapurna region. If you talk about spring, it brings beautiful colors as rhododendrons are everywhere.

 You will see it paint entire hillsides. It is so amazing for the eyes to see. Summer monsoons make the entire Annapurna Region clean and green. You will love the Autumn season. Autumn brings the classic Himalayan experience. It offers you crystal-clear skies. Winter is cold, but it rewards experienced trekkers. The silent trails and snow-covered peaks are amazing to explore. If you don’t want many people around you, winter becomes your constant companion.

Visit Annapurna in Spring and Autumn. It is the peak season. You will enjoy the cultural festivals and learn about new traditions.

Your perfect season awaits among these majestic mountains. The Annapurna region welcomes trekkers throughout the entire year. Each m

nth tells its own compelling story. Each season writes a unique chapter in your adventure.

Explore our 2026 seasonal departures — from March blooms to November skies. Request a season-specific itinerary today from Himalayan Odyssey  and start planning your Himalayan journey.