Annapurna circuit trek in April

Annapurna circuit trek means trekking and exploring all the massifs and two different valleys of the stunning Annapurna region of Nepal. Despite being one of Nepal's long treks, it is famous for its adventures and the most exquisite view of the gigantic mountains, namely Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m / 26795 ft), Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m / 26545 ft), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m / 26781 ft), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m / 26040 ft), Mt. Annapurna III (7,555 m / 24787 ft), Mt. Annapurna IV (7,525 m / 24688 ft ), Mt. Annapurna south (7,219 m / 23684 ft), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m / 23166 ft), Mt. Machhapuchhare (6,993 m / 22943 ft), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m / 21132 ft), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6,983 m / 22910 ft), Tukuche peak (6,920 m / 22703 ft), and Tilicho peak (7134 m / 23406 ft).

The Annapurna circuit trek traverses through the world’s widest pass: Thorang La pass, also known as Thorung La pass. This pass is situated at an elevation of 5416 m / 17796 ft. The safest months to pass this pass are March, April, October, and November. Other months have high risks of encountering natural calamities like avalanches and snow storms. Trekking the colorful trail of the Annapurna Circuit trek through places like Dhunche, Chame, Yak Kharka, Manang, Thorang Phedi, and Jomsom one witnesses the greatness in cultural and traditional diversities of Nepal.

The most famous attractions of the entire Annapurna circuit trek are Muktinath, Tatopani, and the Annapurna conservation area. Muktinath temple is equally worshipped and valued by both Buddhists and Hindus. The 108 faucets “dhara” in Nepali is believed to wash away sins one has committed and cleanse their soul. Tato “hot” pani “water” is a naturalal hotspring. Relaxing in this hot spring naturally detoxifies your skin, also helps fight skin issues like Eczema, and irritation, boosts blood circulation, and obviously takes away your stress and muscle tension.

Passing through the Annapurna conservation area, you may come across rare species of wildlife namely: clouded leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan Musk, Himalayan Musk Deer, Tibetan Argali, wild ox, Kasmir Musk deer, etc.

The trek exposes Nepal's Tibetan culture ( while trekking from Dharapani to Chame ). One gets to see the culture and traditions of the local Sherpas and Gurungs as well. Despite being one of the longest treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit trek does not fall into the difficult category. The trails are pretty easy. This trek is “beginner friendly”. Anyone of any age group with a moderate health condition can complete this trek with little guidance. There are not any technical skills required for this trek either.  However, it is suggested to have your body examined before attempting for the trek.

How is the Annapurna Circuit trek in April?

April is the second best time of the year after the months of the Autumn season ( September, October, and November )for the Annapurna Circuit trek. April month falls in the spring season. So, needless to say, the wildflowers, trees, and other vegetation are to die for around this time. The trails usually do not expect any natural calamities like avalanches and snow storms. Since the weather is not freezing cold and neither is it scorching hot, it is perfect for continuous walks. 

The paths are not muddy and slippery because the month of April has very low precipitation. During April, the sky is generally clear and does not have dark clouds, and the weather is dry. Clear sky and dry weather combined offer the best environment to witness the panorama around without any interruptions.

Let's dive deeper into every aspect’s detail in April.

1. Vegetation during April

The Annapurna region is home to beautiful wildflowers like Buttercups, Scrophs, Ploygonums, blue iris, etc. These wildflowers are small and have a very vibrant tone of yellow, pink, blue, and other colors. Their bloom time is typically around the month of April, which means the trails are decorated by them, and the sight is mesmerizing. Some other plants that you can witness are fir, oak, silver fir, larch, pine, sal, orchids, bamboo, golden raspberries, etc. 

During the month of April, the Magnolia tree produces a dazzling display of pink and white flowers, transforming the surroundings into a delightful wonderland. The Annapurna region is especially stunning, boasting both yellow and red rhododendron forests as well as 40 different species of orchids and numerous other wildflowers. This region alone shelters nine different varieties of rhododendron, making it a sight to behold.

Photo: Annapurna Circuit during April

2. How are the weather and temperature in April?

April falls in the spring season. The temperature rises up to 20 degrees Celsius / 68 degrees Fahrenheit and falls as low as -9 degrees Celsius / 15.8 degrees Fahrenheit. This is just a moderate range of how the temperature normally is. Keep in mind that the temperature and altitude vary inversely. This means as the altitude increases, the temperature decreases. It is found that for every 1000 m / 3280 ft elevation gain, the temperature falls down up to 10 degrees Celsius / 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The days in April experience sun for almost 8 and a half hours on average. This gives you enough daylight to trek without any problems.

 The weather is generally sunny but could experience moderate rainfalls ( only in the lower region)a few times. However, the upper region has very few chances of rainfall. The weather is typically dry. The wind is mild and does not cause any hassle for the trek. In conclusion, the weather and temperature of April in the Annapurna Circuit are trekking-friendly.

3. Food and accommodation during April

Annapurna Circuit trek has limitless teahouses at your service. There is not a problem for any type of eater. All vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods are served on call. One gets the typical Nepali food: dal, bhat, tarkari and aachar. Or, if you want, you can have noodles and momo ( a Nepali dumpling that is stuffed with minced meat marinated with spices / for vegetarians, it is stuffed with cabbages and onions ).

Not to forget, April is the second-best month for the Annapurna Circuit trek. So, there are a lot of movements of both domestic and international tourists. This leads to teahouses being packed. You may not have a lot of options to choose from. Therefore, booking the teahouses in advance and trekking stress-free is suggested. The rooms offered by teahouses have twin beds with a shared toilet ( different teahouses have different types of rooms and luxuries ). Needless to say, the better the rooms higher the prices.

4. Altitude sickness during April in Annapurna Circuit trek

Irrespective of months and seasons, the Annapurna Circuit trek has a high risk of altitude sickness since it goes up to 5000 m + ( 16400 ft + elevation. The symptoms of altitude sickness can start to take a toll on you from an altitude as low as 2500 m / 8202 ft ) The most common symptoms are: feeling nauseous, feeling dizzy and lightheaded, headache, feeling lethargic, difficulty in breathing, etc. Plus, during April, the weather is hot, and the days are sunny, so one might feel dehydrated very soon, which might cause altitude sickness faster. 

All three forms of mountain sickness that are: acute mountain sickness, HAPE ( High Altitude Pulmonary Edema ), and HACE ( High Altitude Cerebral Edema ) are likely to happen while on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Therefore make sure to have all the required medicines to both prevent and cure altitude sickness. Make sure to stay hydrated at all times. Do not forget to protect your skin from the sun and have shades on to protect your eyes from the sun haze.

5. Pros and cons of trekking through Annapurna Circuit during April

Pros:

• Moderate temperature and ideal weather for long treks.

• Since the weather is not too cold in the lower region one can trek in t-shirts and trousers. They do not have to load themselves with heavy down jackets and worry about catching a cold. (for the higher mountainous regions you might need some warm trekking clothes)

• A very low chance of getting into accidents due to bad weather.

• The best scenic view of the vegetation and wildflowers.

• Clear skies with no rainfall and snow storms. Meaning no restriction to behold the view around.

• Since it is one of the peak seasons, you will be accompanied by many fellow trekkers. So you do not feel alone. 

• Even the ones on solo treks do not have to worry about not getting helping hands if needed cause other trekkers are always around.

• As the weather is not freezing cold no need to worry about frostbite and being sick from the cold.

• The trails are intact and easy to walk in as very little rainfall occurs to damage it.

Cons:

• The trails are quite crowded during April so, not the right time for the Annapurna Circuit trek if you want some alone time away from the chaos.

• Possibility of not getting the teahouse you want due to heavy flow of tourists.

• The charge rate of the teahouse can be higher since their demand is high.

Join Swotah

 Are you looking for an adventure that is not only breathtaking but also supports responsible and sustainable travel? Then join Swotah Travel and experience the beauty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in April! 

At Swotah Travel, we have a team of experienced and knowledgeable professionals dedicated to ensuring your trekking journey is as enjoyable and safe as possible. We prioritize sustainable travel practices and strive to reduce our environmental impact. We also work with local communities to help promote economic development and benefit the local culture. With us, you can expect to have a fully customized trekking experience tailored to your needs and preferences. 

Our team will provide clear instructions and guidance so you can make the most of your trek. We also offer full-service packages that include accommodation, meals, transport, and insurance to ensure that you are well taken care of during your journey. 

So why wait? Join Swotah Travel and embark on an unforgettable journey to explore the mesmerizing Annapurna Circuit Trek. We guarantee that you will have an amazing time and create lasting memories!