Are you planning to trek the Annapurna Circuit in March and wondering why you should do it, what the weather and temperatures will be like, what the trail conditions will be like, whether accommodations are available, and more?
Well, it’s no longer a question, as in this blog, we will be discussing all the topics you might want to know. Let’s start with a detailed brief now.
Table of Contents
Why trek the Annapurna Circuit in March?
There are many reasons why you should trek the Annapurna circuit in March. The weather is clear and stable due to the past winter in January and February. As the march is in the spring season, you will see the greenery everywhere in the forests. The Rhododendron flowers start to bloom, which makes the whole forest turn red and green. During the trek, you will see the beautiful views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, and surrounding mountain ranges covered in snow. You can witness the beautiful sunrise and sunset over the mountains, which is a life moment to experience.
The weather is also mild, which is neither so hot nor so cold, which is perfect conditions for the trek. You will experience the beautiful Himalayan hospitality of the local people. You will explore their cultures, traditions, and daily life. As it’s just the starting month of the peak season, the crowd is less compared to April and May.
Weather & temperature in March
The weather and temperatures in March are comfortable and mild. You may have the cold nights, but the comfortable days. You will see the lower regions’ temperatures, which vary from 12 °C to 18 °C in the daytime, as the nights can reach up to 2 °C to 8 °C.
The middle regions like Pisang to Manang temperatures vary from 6 °C to 12 °C, whereas nights can vary from -5 °C to -1 1c. The upper regions like Thorong Phedi to Thorong La pass temperatures can vary from –6°C to 2°C in daytime, whereas during nighttime it can vary from 10°C to –15°C.
Temperature Table for March (Region-wise)
| S.No | Region | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lower Region (Besisahar – Chame) | 12°C to 18°C | 2°C to 8°C | Mild and comfortable trekking conditions |
| 2 | Middle Region (Pisang – Manang) | 6°C to 12°C | –5°C to –1°C | Cool days and cold nights |
| 3 | Upper Region (Yak Kharka – Thorong Phedi – Thorong La Pass) | –6°C to 2°C | –10°C to –15°C | Freezing temperatures; winter gear required |
Trail conditions & snow level
The trail conditions and snow level in the Annapurna circuit trek during the march are mostly snow-free by mid-March. While Snow and ice may remain around Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and Thorong La Pass. If you are trekking in early March, crossings may require micro spikes/crampons. The trails can be muddy in forested sections as temperatures rise.
Crowd levels in March
Well, the best time to do the Annapurna circuit trek is from March to May. But as the march is just the starting month of the peak season. You may see more trekkers on the trails compared to the winter, but fewer trekkers compared to the peak seasons. During the march in 2025, the number of trekkers was around 36,000 according to the TAAN data, which issues the ACAP permits. You will have easy access to the tea houses, and the prices will also be affordable compared to the peak seasons.
Scenery & nature in March
The scenery and nature in March are perfect for a trek if you love nature and want to spend your time exploring and immersing yourself in nature. You will see the Rhododendrons start blooming in red, pink, and white colors, making the forests look beautiful from a distance. The Forests and valleys turn green after winter dryness, which looks more perfect.
The Snow-capped peaks like the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding ranges are at their brightest, with minimal haze due to the winter snowfall. The river and waterfalls, water streams look beautiful, and Rivers flow stronger with melting snow, adding beauty to it. Not only does this increase the Wildlife activity, especially blue sheep in the Manang region, but other wildlife animals can also be spotted during the trek. You will have the perfect photography time as well.
Difficulty level in March
The difficulty level of trekking the Annapurna circuit in March is moderate compared to the other seasons. During this time of the month, you will be having stable weather conditions, days will be longer, and snow will be melting, which makes ideal conditions for the trekkers to complete the trek. However, when you are trekking to the Thorong La pass from the Thorong Phedi, you will see that the winds are high, the temperatures increase at the high altitude, and you will have a long ascent and descent compared to any other day.
Annapurna Circuit cost in March
The Annapurna circuit trek cost in March can be lower compared to other peak seasons, as it’s just the start of the peak season, and the tea houses, guides, porters, and transportation charges are lower on the side. Well, if you are trekking the Annapurna circuit trek on a Budget, then it can cost you up to 800 USD. If you are trekking in a standard way, then it can cost you around 1200 USD, and if you are trekking in a Luxury way, then it can cost you around 2000 USD. These are the total costs which include your permits, guides and porters, food, accommodations, trekking gears and equipment, transportations, and miscellaneous costs.
Cost Table for Annapurna Circuit Trek in March
| S.No | Trek Type | Cost (USD) | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Budget Trek | Up to $800 | Book Now |
| 2 | Standard Trek | Around $1200 | Book Now |
| 3 | Luxury Trek | Around $2000 | Book Now |
Annapurna Circuit Trekking Itinerary for March
The Annapurna circuit trekking itinerary for March is the same as the other seasons. The trekking itinerary goes like this.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you can explore the lively streets of Thamel or simply rest after your journey.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Chame
Start early for a scenic drive through lush hills, rivers, and terraced fields toward Chame. The journey gradually enters the Manang region, offering stunning mountain views along winding roads.
Day 3: Trek from Chame to Pisang
Begin your trek through dense forests and follow the Marsyangdi River as the valley opens up. The trail provides your first close-up views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak before reaching the charming village of Pisang.
Day 4: Trek from Pisang to Manang
Walk along one of the most beautiful sections of the circuit, passing monasteries, mani walls, and dramatic landscapes. The higher trail via Upper Pisang rewards you with breathtaking views on your way to Manang.
Day 5: Acclimatization day in Manang
Spend the day adjusting to the altitude with short hikes to viewpoints or Gangapurna Lake. Explore the traditional Manangi culture and enjoy panoramic mountain scenery.
Day 6: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Today’s hike is shorter but steady as you ascend above the tree line. The terrain becomes more rugged, and you’ll spot yak pastures on your way to Yak Kharka.
Day 7: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Follow a gradual trail to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La Pass. Rest well here, as tomorrow is the biggest and most challenging day of the trek.
Day 8: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass and down to Muktinath
Start pre-dawn for the steep ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek. After celebrating the achievement, descend along a long but rewarding trail to the sacred town of Muktinath.
Day 9: Visit Muktinath temple and drive to Kagbeni, Jomsom, and Tatopani
Explore the revered Muktinath Temple, an important site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Then enjoy a scenic drive through the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing Kagbeni and Jomsom before reaching the hot springs of Tatopani.
Day 10: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara
Drive through charming villages and cascading waterfalls as you return to the lower, greener hills. Arrive in Pokhara and enjoy the relaxing lakeside atmosphere.
Day 11: Explore Pokhara
Spend the day visiting major attractions like Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, the Peace Pagoda, or enjoy adventure activities. Pokhara’s serene beauty offers the perfect break after days of trekking.
Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Travel back to Kathmandu by a scenic highway route, passing rivers, hillsides, and villages. After arrival, enjoy free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation.
Day 13: Departure
Your journey concludes with a transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the Annapurna Circuit adventure.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Duration: 11 Days
Best For: Those who want to trek and explore the beautiful mountain and pass
Price: 800 USD Only
Accommodation/tea houses status in March
The tea house and accommodations are available throughout the month, and you may not need to book in advance, as it’s just the start of the peak season. The tea houses will be available. All the tea houses of every place during the trek will be open, making it a good option for you to stay wherever you want. The tea houses will be basic but clean rooms.
Hot showers will be available at an additional cost. Blankets will be provided, but it’s suggested to bring a sleeping bag for extra comfort. The tea houses will also provide you with electricity and Wifi, but at an additional cost. You can book the tea houses upon arrival or tell your guide to book it for you. If you trek with an agency like us, we will book your tea house in advance.
Food & water availability
The food and water are available throughout the trek. You will see the small tea houses running a restaurant for the trekkers. You will have a variety of options of foods like Dal bhat with unlimited refills, Noodles, soups, pastas, Tibetan bread & porridge, Omelettes, and many more. The water will be expensive inside the tea houses compared to the cities. So you can carry a water purification tablet with you, fill the tap water, purify it, and drink. You can also ask the tea houses for the boiled water for your convenience.
Transportation in March for the Annapurna Circuit
The transportation in March for the Annapurna circuit will be on the normal route. You can drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and from Besisahar to Chame. You can drive from Pokhara to Chame as well. Also, from Muktinath, you can drive directly to Pokhara or Kathmandu. Please keep in mind that you cannot have a flight option from Kathmandu to the Annapurna circuit; however, you can fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu to save your time.
The cost for the public bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar is NPR. 1500 and from Besisahar to Chame is Nprs. 1000. The cost from Jomsom to Pokhara is NPR. 2500 and from Pokhara to Kathmandu is NPRS. 1000. If you are taking a private rented vehicle, then it will cost you 180 USD from Kathmandu to Chame and 180 USD from Muktinath to Kathmandu.
Guide & porter availability
The guides and porters are available enough during the march. You can hire a guide and porter from the trekking agencies like us. You hire a well-experienced guide at 25 USD to 30 USD per day. You can also hire a porter for 20 to 25 USD per day with a 20kg weight limit. You can hire a guide and porter from Facebook groups as well. Or else, when you reach the starting point of the Annapurna circuit, such as the Besisahar or the Chame, you can hire a local guide and porter from there as well.
What to pack for March?
As the march is the starting season of the Annapurna circuit and the days are stable, you will need to pack accordingly. The list goes like:
Clothing Layers (Core Essentials)
Base Layers
- 2 moisture-wicking t-shirts (synthetic or merino)
- 1–2 thermal base layer tops (for Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi)
- 1 thermal base layer bottom (important for cold nights)
Mid Layers
- 1 fleece jacket (light or medium)
- 1 thicker warm jacket (synthetic/down essential for early mornings + high altitude)
Outer Layer
- Waterproof & windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
- Waterproof trekking pants or rain pants
- Normal trekking pants (2 pairs)
Lower Body
- Thermal leggings for high-altitude nights
- Quick-dry trekking trousers
- Comfortable shorts (optional but good for lower regions)
Underwear & Socks
- 4–6 pairs trekking socks (warm + light mix)
- 1–2 pairs of wool socks for Thorong La day
- 5–7 pairs moisture-wicking underwear
Footwear
- High-ankle waterproof trekking boots (broken-in)
- Lightweight trekking shoes or slippers for tea houses
- Gaiters (helpful in case of snow patches around Thorong La)
Head & Hand Gear
- Warm beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Neck gaiter / Buff
- UV-protection sunglasses
- Warm gloves (fleece or wool)
- Waterproof outer gloves (optional but helpful if windy or snowy)
Sleeping Gear
- -10°C sleeping bag (tea houses can be cold in March)
- Sleeping bag liner (optional, but adds warmth and comfort)
Accessories & Trekking Gear
- Trekking poles (important for snowy/icy sections on the pass)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Reusable water bottle (1L or 2L)
- Water purification tablets/filter (Aqua Tabs / Sawyer)
- Duffle bag (if taking a porter)
- Daypack (25–35L for daily essentials)
Personal Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+). March sun is strong
- Lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizer (cold winds dry your face)
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes & tissues
- Toothbrush, paste, basic toiletries
- Quick-dry towel
- Foot powder (helps prevent blisters)
First Aid & Medicine
- Diamox (for altitude, optional ask doctor)
- Paracetamol or Ibuprofen
- Band-aids, blister plasters (Compeed)
- ORS (oral rehydration salts)
- Antiseptic cream
- Cold medicine (March mornings can be dusty/cold)
Electronics
- Powerbank (10,000–20,000 mAh)
- Charging cables
- Adapters (Nepal uses Type C/D/M)
- Camera or GoPro
- Extra memory cards
- Offline maps (Maps.me, Gaia, AllTrails)
Snacks & Extras
- Energy bars
- Chocolate & nuts
- Electrolytes
- Instant coffee/tea (optional)
- Small thermos (if you like hot drinks on the trail)
Documents & Money
- Passport
- ACAP & TIMS permits
- Cash (NPR 20,000–30,000 ATMs limited after Besisahar)
- Insurance that covers high-altitude trekking
Safety tips & altitude sickness
As the Annapurna circuit trek takes you to the highest altitude of 5416 meters at Thorong la pass, which is higher compared to the Everest base camp, Manaslu circuit, or any other base camp treks. You need to know the safety tips and avoid altitude sickness. You will need to drink a lot of hot water. You will need to ascend slowly and gradually. Listen to your body, don’t push your limits. You will need to recognize the symptoms of high altitude sickness, which include Headache, Nausea, Dizziness, and Loss of appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, inform your guide as soon as possible and seek rescue.
Popular side trips (Tilicho, Ice Lake, Nar Phu)
The Annapurna circuit trek is not only popular to complete the Thorong La pass, but it also offers you the opportunity to do the side trips, such as the Annapurna circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. You can do the Nar Phu Valley trek. You can do the Ice Lake trek. If you want to make your trek more adventurous and you are interested in climbing the mountains, then the Pisang peak climbing should be on your bucket list while doing the Annapurna circuit trek.
Need to plan your Annapurna circuit trek?
I hope you enjoyed reading our blog for March. So you might wonder now, after knowing this much information, where can I book the Annapurna circuit trek or inquire about it? Well, you can send us the inquiry from the inquiry button below. Or WhatsApp us at: +977 9841120805. So what are you waiting for? Start your planning from today and make your dream come true.
Tags: annapurna, annapurna circuit, march trekking, nepal, Trekking in Nepal, treks