Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the pillars of the Nepalese trekking industry. It is in fact the pioneering trekking trail alongside the Everest Base Camp Trek. Therefore, the number of trekkers wishing to trek in this route is very high. In today’s blog, we are covering the the possibility of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in the Monsoon season!

In this blog, we will be focusing on what are the benefits and disadvantages of doing the Annapurna Round Trek in monsoon season. We will also delve into the ways to make the trek in this off season time more safe and worthwhile. At the end of the blog, you will be able to decide whether to do the trek in monsoon or not!

At first, let’s find out about the ideal time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek:

When is an ideal time to do Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The ideal time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal is during the months of the spring season and autumn season. There are six months of ideal trekking window for this amazing long detour trekking trip. March to May and September to November are considered as the best months to trek. However, winter season’s early months and summer / monsoon season’s early months can also provide feel of the spring and autumn season to some extent. Please note that the spring and autumn seasons are the peak trekking season in almost all the trekking regions of Nepal.

What are the things to consider before deciding when to trek in Nepal?

There are many factors that should be under the consideration before deciding to do the trek. The trekking trail condition, modes of transportation, availability of accommodation & meals, cost factor, safety, and visibility. In addition to these factors, you must not ignore your own physical and mental conditions. It requires immense physical fitness level and good cardio – vascular abilities to do a safe and successful trekking trips in Nepal.

The most important factor one should not ignore while traveling is the safety! Visibility and availability of the additional facilities come second to safety! You should always make decision on the basis of your safety and then the overall trekking experience. Compare the overall trekking experiences of each season and then make decisions. It is the smart way of traveling!

Is it really possible to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon?

There is nothing called impossible for a human being! A careful planning and well execution of the plans can help trekkers to overcome lots of hurdles! Usually, the Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek is best when trekked during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) as mentioned above but we are here to find out the possibility of doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon. The monsoon starts from June to Early August here in Nepal.

Let’s analyze the possibility in terms of the following 5 factors:

Manang & Mustang: Rain Shadow areas of Nepal

The places beyond mountains are considered as the rain shadow areas as these places experience little rainfall. The trekking trail of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Upper Mustang traverses through these two regions of Central Western Nepal. Therefore, even in the monsoon season these places are not affected by the heavy rainfall. Ironically, the low – altitude places experience heavy rainfall. The trail is also through green lush forests crossing several streams. During monsoon season, these streams may rise and forests trail is hard to navigate!

Conclusion: High – altitude places experience little rain and it is the low altitude places that we must consider. If we can successfully navigate through the low – altitude places then you can choose to do trek in monsoon.

Trekking Trail and Road Conditions during Monsoon

Due to persistent rainfall, the trekking trail in the low altitude places become muddy and slippery. Trekkers may find lots of leeches in the trail which can be bothersome for the trekkers to safely walk through the trail. The road between the trail head and Besi Sahar is bumpy and off road. During the monsoon season, the road may be blocked due to landslides and floods. Therefore, it is so hard to travel in the lower places. Beyond Manang village, trekkers can trek as if they are trekking during the spring and autumn season.

Conclusion: You should always be very careful while taking a jeep to trail head for the trek. Make sure that you have enough information about the condition of road and trail. Add 2 to 3 days and wait for the trail or road to get better. If you wait the right window then you can surely do the trek in terms of trekking trail and road condition.

Do I get proper mountain views during monsoon season?

Yes, it is possible to get the proper mountain views during the monsoon season as well. You will be walking on this trekking trail for more than 5 to 6 days. Therefore, you will get the chance to witness mountains from the trekking trail comfortably as the clouds don’t hover over all the time!

Conclusion: It’s okay to trek in the monsoon in terms of mountain views.

Availability of Meals and Accommodation

The trail passes through lots of densely populated villages and it is one of the commercial trekking routes of Nepal. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about the availability of the meals and accommodation. In addition, during the monsoon season the number of trekkers is also low. There are good chances of getting lodging facilities of your choice during this off season period.

Conclusion: You don’t need to worry about the availability of the lodging and meals facilities.

Trekking Guide and Trekking Agency for Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal

If you are planning to do the short Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon Season in Nepal then don’t forget to trek with a guide assigned by the trekking agency. Your trek must be officially operated by the Nepal Government registered trekking agency. In times of emergencies, the agency can facilitate you better. Trekking solo or independently increases the risk factors! In some instances, you may get better deals too! However, mobility in the lower places may require more resources and you may end up paying more than during the peak season! If you follow all the things mentioned in the blog, you can surely do the Annapurna Circuit Trek in the Monsoon.