Annapurna circuit trek
Know the Best Time, Season and Month to Visit Annapurna Circuit Trek

When is the best time to visit Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best trekking trails in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Swostika Sapkota
Author | Swostika Sapkota Date Published:
Annapurna circuit trek in nepal

Located within the biggest conservation area of Nepal, Annapurna Conservation Area, and one of the most beautiful circuits of Nepal is the Annapurna Circuit. Composed of unique and beautiful flora and fauna, numerous gorgeous landscapes as well as the mindblowing natural features, along with the wonderful and authentic lifestyle of the local people, Annapurna Circuit is a series of wonders and is considered one of the most beautiful circuits to visit and trek in for the adventurers, nature- lovers and as well as the adrenaline seekers. The Annapurna circuit is one of the most beautiful places to visit, and it is home to some of the best high-altitude trekking.

Annapurna Circuit Trek has been one of the most remarkable and one of the oldest treks that have been very admired by the people of the world. It is by far one of the most wonderful treks that one can ever imagine. The wonderful sceneries that one can look at while doing the trek are just breathtaking. The Annapurna Circuit trek is made up of a variety of magnificent sights, including deep gorges, harsh high mountain passes, Buddhist temples, picturesque farming communities, and all the major peaks in the Annapurna Massif. All these beautiful features and enthusiastic places within the Annapurna Circuit attracts thousands of visitors from around the world and is one of the most legendary trekking routes in the world.

The enthusiastic adventurer seekers can complete this beautiful trek ranging according to their pace of walk and the total places they want to cover in this journey. The itinerary can be made from 21 days to 14 days to 10 days and also to 8 days. According to the places and the preferences of the tourists, they can visit and complete the marvellous trek within the Annapurna Circuit Region.

Beginning from Besisahar and reaching the highest pass at 5416m which is the Thorong La Pass, coming across and visiting different marvellous places such as the beautiful valleys of Manang, Mustang, Jomsom, Tatopani, Tilicho Lake which is the magnificent lake situated at the highest altitude in the world, Annapurna Circuit Trek is a beautiful plethora of surprises and one of the best treks one could ever experience and ask for. It can definitely be one of the treks that one should explore once in his/her lifetime.

Table Of Content

Table Of Content

    Annapurna Circuit Facts

    Name 

    Annapurna Circuit Trek

    Location

    Annapurna Region 

    Favorable Time for Trekking / Peak Seasons

    Spring and Autumn Season

    Favorable months to trek/ Peak Months

    March, April, May, September, October and November.

    The starting point of trek

    Besisahar (760m)

    Highest elevation of trek

    Thorong La Pass (5416m)

    Difficulty Level

    Moderate to Strenuous

    Accomodation

    Teahouses and Lodges.

    Best Season to Visit Annapurna Circuit Trek

    Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most diverse trekking routes of Nepal. Every new place that comes throughout the trek brings new excitement and thrill to the journey that you are doing. Annapurna Circuit Trek. Moreover, the season in which you are trekking or traveling to the Annapurna Circuit also differs depending on your type of experience in the circuit and the weather changes that you will be experiencing. The season brings a variety of changes to the nature and lifestyle of the people. 

    Annapurna circuit

    Likewise, changes in season also bring changes in the weather within the circuit, local lifestyle of the people, flora and fauna, nature, and so on. Mainly, the peak and the most accessible & preferred seasons to visit Annapurna Circuit Trek are Spring and Autumn seasons but every season holds its own significance. Hence, the following seasons highlight the changes in the different factors in the Annapurna Circuit Area and the trekkers have to plan for different things according to the different changes in the seasons. The seasons are as follows:

    Spring Season

    The Spring Season is one of the most breathtaking and lovely seasons of all. The Spring season depicts the blooming of gorgeous flowers, the creation of fresh floras, and the crystal clear blue skies that put a person in a good mood right away. Talking about the context of the Annapurna Circuit trek in the spring season, it is one of the most admired seasons and about 25-30 % of the tourists trek towards the Annapurna Circuit in this season. It's when there is no or little rain, the weather is moderate i.e., and it's not too hot or cold (but it will be chilly at higher elevations.) It's also when you can trek and enjoy the eye-catching landscapes of the different fascinating places within the circuit.

    Months

    Average Precipitation

     

    Average Temperature

       

    Day

    Night

    March

    3.9 in

    25.4℉

    4.5℉

    April

    7.6 in

    33.7℉

    21.0℉

    May

    11.6 in

    33.0℉

    25.6℉

     

    The Annapurna Circuit's spring weather is pleasant and clear. And provide a distinct view of the mountains and terrains. It's also a good time to visit across high passes since the weather is nice and clear. 

    The mild winter, and spring season, which lasts from March to May, is another lovely season for hiking on these routes. It's the next finest opportunity to go traveling. The days grow warmer, and the national flower of Nepal, the Rhododendron, begins to bloom, turning the trek into a brilliant and luxurious experience. During the spring, therefore, Himalayan vistas are even more spectacular for spectators.

    At this time of the year, the flora is in full bloom. At lower elevations, the Rhododendron is more common. Other wildflowers provide a variety of colors, and pine forests at lower elevations will be fragrant and new.

    Spring is a time of vibrant colors. The hills and wooded paths are dotted with wildflowers and rhododendron blossoms.

    The scent of fresh air, which mingles with the fragrant bloom of nature, is invigorating. Clear blue skies with frequent white and low clouds create mirage effects on the sky. Weather is typically consistent for a long period of time. There are very few possibilities of snowfall or rain in the Annapurna Region during Spring.

    The magnificent vistas of Himalayan ranges, valleys, hills, and mountains will amaze you. After the winter comes the season of spring. The creatures and plants in the region rejuvenate after their winter rest during Spring.

    • The weather that occurs in the early springtime is known as winter weather. You will experience winter weather during the Annapurna Circuit trek from early March. In the first half of the season, it's typically colder. Early Spring trekking to the Annapurna circuit isn't certain to provide clear skies and pleasant weather. On this route, you may encounter some snowfalls during this period.

    • During the middle of spring (late March to late May), Annapurna is cool and comfortable. While this is going on, the region heats up considerably by day. This is an excellent time for trekkers who don't want to be cold. The flora and fauna are also more active now because of the warming climate. This is the ideal time to go on a trek along Annapurna Circuit in Spring.

    • The Annapurna circuit is frequently hotter during the late spring. You could even encounter a few amounts of rainfall as you trek lower into the foothills. When Spring approaches, the frequency of rains increases. There's also a chance of seeing storms.

    Summer Season

    Summer and Monsoon come side by side in the Annapurna Circuit.  This means in the Summer, the Annapurna area will be both hot and wet at the same time. In the Annapurna region, you may anticipate frequent rains throughout Monsoon. The summer season is the hottest in Nepal, but it's also the rainiest due to the monsoon. In the summer season, you can expect plenty of rainfall at times for several days. 

    Months

    Average Precipitation

     

    Average Temperature

       

    Day

    Night

    June

    14.0 in.

    40.4℉

    35.0℉

    July

    20.4 in.

    44.8℉

    39.6℉

    August

    16.9 in.

    43.0℉

    38.6℉

     

    In the rainy season, it generally rains at night and continues until the next morning. The trails in the rainy season become soggy and slick as a result of frequent rain. Also, due to monsoon rain, water levels in rivers streams, and waterfalls rise. Instead of benefits, there are several more drawbacks during the monsoon season.

    In the rainy season, trails are frequently washed away. In certain regions, you can expect rockfalls and landslides. The most hazardous period of the monsoon or summer season is when landslides become extremely perilous. Avalanches are also a problem. The routes in the lowlands or higher elevations are muddy and slick, either by any means or route.

    Annapurna circuit

    There are several possibilities of receiving leech bites while trekking through the jungles. On the paths, mosquitoes and leeches coexist. It's a good idea to bring some insect repellents with you on your trip.

    The stunning vistas are not visible, and due to the weather being overcast and hazy, you may miss out on seeing and experiencing some amazing places. Monsoon season can be an exciting and thrilling month for those who want to go on a journey through nature's full force. The Annapurna Mastiff can also be found in the rain-shadow region of the Annapurna range, including Manang, Upper Mustang, and Muktinath. These regions receive little or no precipitation throughout the year, making them ideal for tourism at any time of year. The number of trekkers is also smaller, making it one of the benefits for people who don't want to be rushed and prefer to go at their own rate.

    The rain may surprise you with what nature has to offer. You could be fortunate enough to witness the surrounding forests, rivers, gorges, and waterfalls in their entirety. You'll also see the blossoms of lovely wildflowers that decorate the Annapurna region side.

    Winter Season

    The Winter Annapurna Circuit Trek isn't as well-known as other seasons, such as Autumn and Spring. Although each year has its own unique set of weather conditions, winter is the coldest period of the year in the Himalayas according to data. The temperature at the Thorong La Pass, which is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit, is extremely low. As a result, the pass gets covered in snow. Because the pass is trapped within enormous drifts of snow, it remains inaccessible for trekking.

    Months

    Average Precipitation

     

    Average Temperature

       

    Day

    Night

    December

    0.8 in.

    13.5℉

    -1.9℉

    January

    1.8 in.

    9.9℉

    -6.7℉

    February

    3.0 in.

    10.3℉

    -8.2℉

     Snowfalls are frequently accompanied by severe blizzards. The residents of higher altitudes migrate to the lower elevations to escape the bleak winter due to the extremely cold, chilling, and unpleasant climate. The temperature becomes considerably colder with height, as can be observed in the lowlands.

    The colder the temperature, the greater your adventure will be. Although temperatures during the day are usually above zero, this is not always the case at night or early in the morning when the sun has yet to rise. There are several difficulties to be aware of during the winter season. It does not rain very often, but there's a good chance of snowfall. It is possible for it to snow so much that certain routes will be blocked. Another problem is that not all of the tea houses are open during the winter, many individuals migrate to lower elevations, necessitating a more careful trek in this period.

    trekking in annapurna

    The principal thing to remember is the safety of the Annapurna Circuit trek, which is very chilly during the winter and quite hazardous due to frequent snowfall and other reasons. Because of the cold and snow, some of the major passes and higher regions like the Upper Mustang and high passes are shut.

    However, there are also pros to the cons which include  – in the winter, the scenery is breathtaking, and there is no snow to obstruct the view. Spectacular panoramic vistas are visible. In the chilly winter in the Annapurna Circuit Region's High altitude, you will encounter many adventurer seekers who enjoy the thrills and beauty of nature. In the higher reaches of the trip, you may see magnificent white, snow-covered mountains and nearby hills.

    Autumn Season

    The magnificent and relaxing vistas of the Annapurna Circuit are most appreciated during the Autumn season. Trekkers move to the Annapurna region in this period to walk on popular trek routes like Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and others.

    The year's most constant weather and temperature situations occur during the autumn months. The sky is usually clear, bright, and sunny. The surrounding environment appears to be beautiful and enticing to the eye. The weather is usually excellent, and there are few days when it's truly dark in the evening. Even during the nights, the sky is clear, making Autumn a fantastic time to stargaze.

    Months

    Average Precipitation

     

    Average Temperature

       

    Day

    Night

    September

    8.9 in.

    41.1℉

    35.1℉

    October

    2.0 in.

    35.8℉

    24.5℉

    November

    0.5 in.

    24.7℉

    8.3℉

     

    The chances of rain are essentially zero during the Autumn season. You will enjoy a tranquil atmosphere while walking through the magnificent pathways of the Annapurna Circuit. The trails are not dusty, and the views are limitless. You'll get to discover a whole new section of breathtaking vistas while hiking them. The Annapurna Circuit is a trek through the Himalayas that takes you by stunning scenery painted on an indigo backdrop.

    Annapurna circuit trek

    Despite the fact that it becomes chilly at high altitudes, the temperature is pleasant and never uncomfortable. However, the number of trekkers is overwhelming, forcing all available teahouses, restaurants, and lodges to fill up. Because of the aridity in this season, you will not see the lovely flora blossoming as they normally do along the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

    When the number of tourists and trekkers begins to rise, so will the prices.

    However, when you reach the Annapurna circuit - blue skies, picture-perfect views, lovely pathways - everything else drops from your mind. You may see the surrounding areas, hills, rivers, and gorges at their extremely best.

    Best Months to Visit Annapurna Circuit Trek

    The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a journey of contrasts, featuring breathtaking natural attractions, awe-inspiring vistas, stressful climbs, and breathtaking views. It's one of the most popular treks for tourists and trekkers from all over the world - both domestic and foreign. Thousands of trekkers go to the Annapurna Circuit Area to see the stunning and magnificent views, as well as explore the beautiful Himalayas and snow-capped mountains.

    Trekkers depart in various months in order to visit the magnificent Annapurna Circuit based on their preferences. Each month brings new capabilities, weather, and a different environment to the Circuit.

    As a result, the Annapurna Circuit Area features the following twelve months and their various characteristics.

    January 

    The month of January, the second month of Winter, is one of the coldest months in the year. In higher latitudes, the daytime temperature falls between 1⁰C and -8⁰C.

    The nights are even more chilly. The temperature on the lower Annapurna Circuit Trek ranges from 8°C to 12°C. Because of the chilling temperatures, Annapurna trails are less crowded. January is ideal for those who like to relax, since they may enjoy the calm routes. Due to the off-season, it is easy to locate accommodations.

    During this month, the days and mountain vistas are obvious. It's a wonderful opportunity to take in the spectacular surroundings. The days are shorter, while the nights are longer. You may also see a breathtaking view of billions of stars. To remind you that Thorung La Pass's higher elevations are off-limits to tourists. As a result, you'll have to verify the Annapurna Circuit's weather and terrain before going.The weather in higher regions is extremely variable. The higher regions are generally below 1°Celsius. Because of the cold, most mornings and evenings are too chilly to be out. As a result, you'll need appropriate clothing for this trek in the winter months.

    February

    The first few days of February are the coldest weeks of the year. It's quite chilly, with negative degrees Fahrenheit temperatures. There will also be snowfall. Spring begins to show itself in mid-February. During the early weeks of February, there are indications of cloudy days. The snow-capped mountains and hills may be seen during the clear days.

    By the middle of February, temperatures begin to rise. You may get all of the advantages of spring without dealing with the crowds. This is a month when you can enjoy the peaceful and quiet aspect of the journey. The temperatures begin to rise in mid-February. You may take advantage of the benefits of spring without having to deal with the crowds. During this month, you may enjoy the calm and quietness of the journey.

    March

    The first month of the most pleasant Spring season, March, is a fantastic time to visit Annapurna Circuit. It is the time of the month when flowers and grasses bloom. The hills and fields are typically thick with rhododendrons and oaks. The atmosphere is gradually warmed during the winter, allowing it to depart.

    In a temperate climate, there is a low possibility of snowstorms and showers. In early March, you may witness the last of the snow along the path. The winter gradually leaves the atmosphere as the area warms up. There are few prospects of snow and rain in a moderate climate. It is one of the better times to appreciate the Annapurna Circuit's full range of biodiversity.

    The temperature in the bottom section of the Valley is about 4°C to -8°C during the day. The daytime temperatures are predicted to be around 4°C to 6°C at higher elevations, but they can reach 10°C or more during midday. Because nighttime temperatures may drop below freezing, you'll need to dress warmly. March's weather is ideal, with snow-capped mountains and flower-covered forests as a backdrop.

    Moreover, the vistas of snow-covered mountains and flower-covered woods make March's weather very pleasant.

    April

    In April, the captivating spring continues to dominate. It's another high season for doing the Annapurna Circuit Trip. It's easy to trek on the lengthy pathways of the Annapurnas due to the bright sunshine in the clouds. There are great views of the wonderful Annapurna Circuit all around. As a result, the paths are thick with hikers. The entire mountain range is enveloped by beautiful vistas. 

    The highest regions have an average temperature of -5°C in April. The lower areas, on the other hand, are significantly warmer, with a typical temperature of 20°C. As usual, the nights are significantly chillier. As a result, it's good to bring warm clothing for this time of year.

    The weather is ideal for trekking during this time of year. You'll be able to appreciate beautiful views and a fulfilling trekking experience as the weather is quite dry. You'll also get to discover beautiful fauna and a variety of wildflowers blooming during this period. For trekkers heading to the Annapurna region in April, it's a stunning paradise.

    May

    The last month of the Spring season might be characterized by mild temperatures. In higher areas, the usual temperature is around 13°C to 0°C. The temperature at the ground is between 17°C and 21°C, which is a good walking temperature. The month of May is the most sultry of all the other spring months, with an average temperature of 4⁰C at night.

    In this month, the coldest area on the circuit is Thorong La Pass. There may be fog or clouds around the mountains to obstruct the vista. With those facts in mind, May is typically a very dry month. Only a few rainstorms are anticipated at the end of May. As a result, it's essential to bring waterproof jackets, raincoats, boots, and pants when going trekking in May. 

    You'll have a chance to explore the untouched views of mountains, picturesque views of the Himalayan ranges, wild and green vegetation, as well as lovely flowers blooming along the Annapurna Circuit Route. The spectacular sunrise and sunset views from the slopes of the mountains will be yours to enjoy. It's more significant for trekking enthusiasts.

    June

    This month brings the starting phase of the Summer Season, which is also known as the Monsoon or Rainy Season. The temperature in the monsoon season is generally around 15°C to 28°C. The higher region temperature, on the other hand, hovers around -2°C to -4°C. It's a rainy time of year. The pathways are wet and muddied. However, owing to the rains, the higher regions of Upper Mustang and Manang have remained intact.

    The weather during this month is unpredictable, as the rain can fall at any time and for an extended period of time. As a result, the trekkers do not consider this period to be the trekking season.

    Despite this situation, many adventure seekers and travel junkies go trek the loop in April. They arrive with all of their necessary gear to keep them dry.

    One of the benefits of trekking in this season is that the path is less crowded. There are plenty of active waterfalls and rivers where you may take advantage on them. Due to fewer visitors and trekkers this month than in previous months, the cost factor will be very inexpensive for you since it is in the off-season.

    July

    July is the wettest month of the year. The region gets slightly chillier because of the rain, with temperatures ranging from around 17°C to 5℃. Temperatures are approximately 13℃ on average.

    The July and Monsoon seasons are characterized by persistent rainfall due to the wind. During this month, the rains come in and obscure the mountain views. There's no assurance of spectacular mountain vistas. Leeches and mosquitoes are common in the trails of the lower sections during the monsoon. The days are usually rainy and damp, therefore trekking requires waterproof clothing, boots, and pants. It is not necessary to put on a lot of warm clothing, and even a few warm ensembles may suffice for both day and evening temperatures.

    In this month, food and lodging are both less expensive than in previous months. You may take in the beautiful vistas of the mountains and countryside while relaxing on the veranda. Because there are fewer tourists at this time of the year, special attention and care are provided.

    August

    The ending  days of the Monsoon season falls on the month of August. The clouds continue to rain down on the ground, making the region chilly and damp. Temperatures remain about the same as they were in July. The temperature begins to rise, reaching approximately 18°C to 23°C.

    There can be some periodic landslides and erosion, which might block the pathways. The routes are muddy and slick, making it difficult to walk along. Rain clouds never leave this region throughout the month, so mountain views are not fixed to appear. The downward section of the trek, particularly in comparison to higher regions like Manang and Jomsom - Muktinath areas that are under the rain shadow, receives a lot of rainfall.

    Trekking in the rainy season is difficult, but with appropriate safeguards and planning, it is safe and daring. As a result, it's critical to bring the proper rain gear on your trip this month.

    September

    September marks the starting of the autumn season which also indicates starting of the peak season when the maximum number of tourists come to visit the marvelous Annapurna Circuit. Every day, the weather grows brighter and clearer as autumn approaches. However, during the first few weeks of September, light showers will fall. By mid-September, the monsoon will be over.

    It is from the mid-month Autumn that marks its arrival by making nature crystal-clear. With the rain gone, the temperature starts to fall around 17⁰C to 4⁰C. Thorong La Pass (5416m), the highest reach of the trek, has the daytime temperature near -4⁰C.

    The vegetation is, however, completely soaked by monsoon rains and greenery everywhere. You'll take pleasure in the clean and unobstructed territorial vistas. The days are getting longer, and the weather starts to improve. The skies are all clear during late September, and days are bright enough to stroll on.

    Besides that, the best time to visit the circuit is in September, when the Annapurna Circuit becomes the most gorgeous. Everything is visible and pleasant including the mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and all the other mindpleasing natural beauties stand out.

    October

    It's no surprise that October is a great month to trek on the Annapurna Circuit after the monsoon and second month, which marks the fall season. In October, we can see the climate's stability and accuracy without any or minor rainfalls. No clouds are in front of the mountains throughout the month, providing spectacular mountain views. Due to the warmth and brightness of the weather, the trails are simple to walk on.

    The trekking routes are simple and more lovely. The trails are drier and simpler to navigate in the non-monsoon months. Snowfall on the pathways is also extremely rare. October is recognized for having consistent weather as well as cleaner air. You will be able to see stunning and breathtaking vistas of the region, lakes, gorges, and the Himalayas. The weather is unpredictable, so you don't have to worry about it interfering with your trip to the beautiful Annapurna Circuit. October is a quiet and wonderful time when you can enjoy beautiful views of peaceful places.

    The cool air rises in a clockwise direction, and the warm air sinks in an anti-clockwise manner. The average day temperature is approximately 15°C at the bottom of the circuit. Temperatures are much colder at the top of the circuit than at its lowest reaches. It is quite chilly during early mornings and late nights.

    The temperature at higher altitudes is lower during the days of October, whereas it is greater on the evenings. On nights, temperatures drop below 7⁰C to 8⁰C. The Thorong La Pass is colder than all of the other locations on the route. As a result, it is advised that you bring along multiple warm and thick clothes in your backpack.

    The streams and waterfalls provide a beautiful backdrop to the rather chilly mountain environment. The pathways are lined with spectacular flora such as Rhododendron, Pines, Oaks, and Fauna including leopard, Himalayan goat, tahr, jackal.

    October is a pleasant and sunny month when people from all over the world come to witness and inspect the untouched vistas of the Himalayas. As a result, the Annapurna thrives with many tourists in October because to that.

    November

    The end of the Autumn season and the commencement of the Winter season on November 1st in Annapurna region. November is an excellent month to go trekking around the Annapurna circuit since there is a smaller chance of rain, hazy skies, and snowfall. During November, the weather is usually clear, allowing you to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas such as Mount Annapurna, Mount Dhaulagiri, Mount Macchapucchre, and numerous other peaks.

    During November, the average temperature drops to 2-4 degrees Celsius in these areas.

    November's weather and conditions are almost identical to those of October. The brilliant blue skies and warm sun are still visible on November days. There is no such  indications of rain or snowfall, making it a simple month.

    November is a great month to visit the Annapurna region, since this is when the area's species diversity blossoms. During November, which is one of Nepal's peak trekking months, you may expect to see a wide variety of flora and fauna on the trails leading to the Annapurna Circuit.

    It's all fine until late November, when the weather grows colder. So, in this month, you must wear warm thick thermal clothing.

    However, due to their popularity, many teahouses and accommodation become packed, forcing you to deal with the problem of room unavailability.

    December

    The first month of the Winter Season is December. The Annapurna Circuit's winter season is the coldest. Under a sky clear blue, the mountains are blanketed with snow. Winter is the driest time of year, which means there will be no or little rainfall.The average daytime Annapurna Circuit temperature drops to around 10°C to 5°C during this month. The night temperatures drop as low as -5°C in certain regions. During this month, the weather is tolerable at the beginning of the month. The weather begins to freeze during the final days of this month.

    The Annapurna Circuit trek in early December will not present you with any severe difficulties. As a result, you will be able to experience the winter wonderland along the route. December is also when many of the trails are empty, making for a peaceful and quiet holiday in the Himalayas.

    In the end, you'll be treated to a stunning view of the snow-covered mountains and sceneries. The trek offers thrilling icy falls, glacial valleys, and snowy glaciers that make it more exciting. The spectacular views of snowy peaks and constant weather conditions are the main attraction of this trip.

    Snowfall can occur at any time of the year due to the cold temperatures. Snow makes the trails more difficult to traverse. During the winter season, it's tough to trek this route because of snow. As a result, you'll need all of your winter wear throughout this month's trip.

    The Annapurna circuit can be done at any time of the year, but trekking it in late December is more difficult because the weather gets worse and the temperature drops significantly. You may come across significant snowfall. As a result, it's usually advised to only trek the Annapurna Circuit in early December.

    Best time to visit Annapurna Circuit Trek

    The beauty of nature can be felt on Annapurna Circuit Trek. From beautifully carved mountains to lush forests, there are many different places that one might find while taking this trekking journey through the unique culture in Nepal! If you're interested in seeing local festivals and experiencing unique cultural traditions then I would recommend visiting the beautiful Annapurna Circuit trek during the festive seasons periods because it will allow you to explore new things in your life and it might be a beautiful memory which will be captivated in your heart forever.

    In this beautiful land of cultural and ethnic diversity, you will see the local people on the lower regions of the Annapurna trail, rejoice Dashain and Tihar, two of the country's most significant festivals.

    Ascending towards the higher altitude of the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will witness diverse and distinct cultural traditions and lovely Buddhist ceremonies, as well as different unique festivals.

    • The Yartung festival, which is held with much fanfare and joy by the people of Lo Manthang, is one of the distinctive festivals. They ride horses, dance, and sing together in a colourful display of culture and customs that becomes an unforgettable experience for visitors to the region during The Yartung Festival season. The most fascinating aspect is the Horse Riding Festival, where people ride horses and participate in horse riding games while wearing traditional clothes. You may witness and rejoice in the event by donning indigenous clothing. It would be a wonderful memory to treasure for the rest of your life. The celebration is held when summer comes to an end.

    • There is also Chame's famous Archery Festival, which takes place in April and May. You may play the game, participate in it, and enjoy the lovely and magnificent festival.

    • The Toran-La, which takes place in March, is a wonderful celebration. This festival is one of the most important festivals for the Thakali people and their forefathers are remembered and chronicled throughout the event. The Thakali New Year is also observed at this time.

    • The monks prepare for the Dhekep celebration by donning masks and performing their own distinct dances, which is an interesting experience you can examine while trekking the Annapurna Circuit. The people of Marpha, Syang, and Tukche villages of Mustang come to the celebration in great splendour and delight.

    • Lha - Phewa is another stunning festival that takes place once every twelve years. The people of the Larjung and Kobang regions of Annapurna Circuit commemorate and respect their forefathers on this day by doing various religious rituals and norms, as they come together to remember and venerate them. If you're lucky enough to go at the precise hour of the festival, which happens every 12 years, you'll be able to witness this remarkable ceremony.

    • There are many other wonderful festivals that you may visit throughout the year and at different times of the year. Lhosar, New Year, and Buddha Purnima are among them.

    The Annapurna Circuit can be explored from a religious, cultural, and festival perspective. You will be astonished and intrigued by the local cultures, customs, and way of life. The festivals are an entertaining and observational method to display their distinct culture throughout the Annapurna Circuit.

    Related Article: Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek

    Difficulties during Annapurna Circuit Trek

    There are different difficulties that might occur to you while doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The different difficulties are as follows:

    Inclement Climatic Conditions

    One of the difficulties that you can face while ascending the Annapurna circuit trek is the inclement climatic conditions. The climatic conditions will not be the same and moderate as always and sometimes lead to unavoidable circumstances such as extreme cold or wet conditions resulting in heavy snowfall and snow blizzards and many more. Trekking in inclement weather might be a deterrent and ruin the optimum trekking itinerary. It may also put people's lives in danger. The Annapurna Circuit trek should be undertaken during the proper season, taking into account the forecasts and season favorability.

    • The difficulties in the trail's visibility are continuous.
    • Extreme tiredness and fatigue when climbing higher altitudes and carrying more equipment than usual.
    • The reduced ability to keep warm, such as melting snow for water or dampening clothes for warmth.
    • The cold and dampness might cause hypothermia, which can be fatal.

    Altitude Sickness

    Altitude Sickness is another major difficulty that might occur to you while trekking the Annapurna Circuit. It is a type of sickness that occurs to almost everyone who ascends toward a higher altitude. There are different ranges of altitude sickness. Common symptoms such as headache and nausea occur to almost everyone but if the symptoms worsen and start to develop, then it may lead to different fatal circumstances and in the worst-case scenario, lead to death also. The two types of extreme altitude sickness are

    • HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema): Fluid accumulates in the lungs. Symptoms like Breathlessness, Dry cough, Pink or rusty spit, Blue lips/nails/face, Tiredness to a high-level, Low fever, Gurgling breath and drowsiness occur.
    • HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema): Fluid accumulates in the brain. symptoms like Severe headache, Vomiting, Loss of balance/ coordination, Lethargy, Blurred vision, Slurred speech, Confusion, Behavior in change, and seizures occur.

    Trekking Difficulties

    It is the next difficulty that mainly the beginners might face referring to all the conditions related to trekking. The walking pace and the need to acclimatize and sustain according to the local climatic conditions are some of the difficulties that one might face while trekking. 

    In some places, such as the hazardous landslide areas, it might be difficult in those areas to trek efficiently as the trekking trails might be difficult in many paths of the Annapurna circuit. For the experienced, it might not be so much difficult, but for the beginners, it is strenuous for them.

    Due to the different climatic conditions along the Annapurna Circuit, visibility might be low, the trails might be covered with a high amount of snow in the case of winter, and in the case of monsoon, the threats of landslides and slippery trails are always there. 

    Hence, it is necessary to carry proper trekking gear, not to make the excess burden on the backpacks, and acclimatize yourself properly in order to make your trek to Annapurna Circuit a favourable and memorable one.

    Health Issue

    Health issues are the major things that one should take care of while trekking toward the Annapurna Circuit. If one is not in a stable health condition to trek or ascend towards the higher altitude, then it is best to travel towards the lower region of the Annapurna Circuit rather than ascending to the higher regions for their own health safety. It is best to prevent than face negative circumstances later on.

    Related Article: How Difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trek

    Packing List Suggestion

    One of the important things to keep in mind is about making an effective packing list and doing the essential packing according to that. While packing the essential gear, we should keep in mind the number of days we are travelling and where & when we are travelling. It makes us easy to carry the essential equipment for us such as clothes, trekking gear, type of other necessary equipment.

    To remove the extra burden, it is advised not to carry excess things in the backpack such as tents and other culinary equipment with you as we can get all the basic facilities within the Annapurna Circuit. You can carry light snacks and chocolate bars with you to have while trekking through the circuit and they are also available almost everywhere throughout the circuit.

    To get more detailed information about the trekking gear checklist, you can check Nepal Trekking Gear Checklist and get all the detailed information about what to carry in your backpack.

    Related Article: Annapurna Inner Circuit Trek

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