Annapurna Circuit is one of the most beautiful treks in the world located within Annapurna mountain range of central Nepal. The trek is best described as the most happening incentive trekking destination of Nepal. Since its opening in 1977 to foreign trekkers, the trek has garnered high praise among tourist of Nepal.

Annapurna Circuit is a “the” trek of Nepal which crosses two different river valleys and encircles the Annapurna Massif. As you ascend further on your trek, you will witness stunning view of Annapurna (I-IV), Machhapurchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, Paungda Danda and numerous peak of 6,000-8,000 meters elevation in Annapurna range.

Also, Annapurna Circuit will require some permits, so make sure you have them all. Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) and Annapurna Conservation Area Project entry Permit, ACAP permit, are two different cards you will need. And be cautious of altitude sickness because it can affect anyone so take extra care of yourself after reaching 3,000 meters height. For that, you can take Diamox after consulting physician, stay hydrated and take an adequate amount of rest. However, if you still feel any symptoms, let your group know and take actions immediately.

Annapurna Circuit Climate

Most of the trekking in the Himalayas doesn’t take place in the wet season, but most of the Annapurna circuit lies within a rain shadow which means trekking is possible all year-round including monsoon as well.

October-November

These two months are favorite trekking season of Nepal. During these months the whole trail of circuit is fresh, clean and vibrant because of the recent end of monsoon. Days are clear giving you the perfect view of Himalayas. Weather is generally warm and the nighttime temperature drops below freezing. Because of the ideal temperature, it is the busiest time of the year.

December-March

This time of year is the coldest period on Annapurna Circuit. The temperature depends on the level of altitude, day temperature is cold and night time temperature goes below freezing level. Due to the bitter coldness, the circuit trails witness less number of trekkers. The highest point of trek, Thorong La Pass is often blocked with heavy snowfall and may get closed for days on end. The teahouses on en route remain open during this time of year unless the snow block most of the trails. You can witness clear day. However clouds prevail more frequently.

With the start of March, the beautiful flowers of rhododendron start blooming in a different color making the hills and forest blissful and vibrant.

April-May

April-May is a warm period of the year, and it is also the second most popular trekking season on Annapurna Circuit. With the warmth of sun, most part of the snow melts and leaves crystal clear sky. You can often witness a strange haze that can be seen from lower altitude during May month. But as you ascend towards higher region, it can be seen from up the trail.

June-September

June-September is the monsoon period which is characterized by torrential downpours, mudslides which makes the trail uncomfortable and slippery and hordes of leeches. But you don’t need to take any worries as this is rarely the care of Annapurna Circuit, especially on the northern side. However, in the southern section of Circuit which is near Pokhara does get a lot of rain and northern part receives less than 10% of precipitation due to its location within a rain shadow.

Trekking in this time of year, you will see many species of flower on the way making the journey more beautiful. Also, this time of year Tilicho lakeside trek becomes relatively easier.

Way to Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit trek starts from less 1,000 meters and gradually takes you to the Himalaya region from where you can observe the spectacular view of mountains from different angles and perspective. The trek goes along the roaring river of Marshyangdi with an alluring view of Mount Manaslu and Himal Chuli. You will also encounter traditional villages inhabited by wide diversity of people from various ethnic groups, whose lifestyle and culture are still intact. The trail passes along the paddy fields and into subtropical forest, mesmerizing waterfalls, gigantic cliffs, and several quaint and traditional villages.

Thorong La Pass is the highest point of this circuit trek. The mountain pass is at an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level in Damodar Himal. Descending from highest point, you will witness a cultural variety of Hindu and Buddhist villages at lower foothills to Tibetan culture of Manang valley and lower Mustang. Muktinath is another attraction of this trek, which is a sacred pilgrimage for Hindu as well Buddhist. You will walk along the popular river of Kaligandaki. There is a gorge of Kali Gandaki river which is the deepest canyon in the world being 7,337 meters than Annapurna I which bounds at it one point.

Then you will gradually head towards Tatopani where you can use the natural hot spring bath and to Poon hill, which is famous for splendid sunrise and sunset view before making your way towards Pokhara.

Annapurna Circuit also offers a side trek to Tilicho Lake, an exceptionally beautiful lake of Nepal and a popular side hike of Annapurna Circuit trek. Located at an altitude of 4,919 meters, sometimes it is cited as the highest lake in the world.