The Annapurna Circuit Trek, one of Nepal’s most iconic and adventurous trails, is currently facing severe weather conditions. Over the past few days, heavy snowfall has blanketed the Mustang, Manang, and Thorong La Pass regions, making trekking routes extremely challenging and, in many areas, unsafe.
What started as a typical post-monsoon cold front has now turned into one of the heaviest snowfalls of the season, affecting hundreds of trekkers and local residents across the high-altitude sections of the circuit.
According to Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) recent bulletin, the weather is expected to worsen between October 27 and 29, with continued snowfall and strong winds predicted across the Annapurna and Mustang regions before gradual improvement in early November.
Heavy Snowfall Across Mustang and Manang
The weather began deteriorating earlier this week as a strong western disturbance moved into Nepal’s central Himalayas. This system has triggered continuous snow above 3,500 meters and rainfall in lower elevations, drastically changing trail conditions almost overnight.
In the Mustang region, areas around Muktinath, Jomsom, and Upper Mustang are experiencing intense snowfall accompanied by strong, cold winds. The usually clear, dry landscapes of Mustang have turned white, and temperatures have dropped well below freezing - daytime hovering around 0°C and nighttime dipping as low as -10°C.
Similarly, in Manang, the snowfall has been relentless around Yak Kharka, Tilicho Lake, and Thorong Phedi. Local teahouses report thick snow accumulation that has made trails difficult to follow. Some trekkers attempting to cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) were caught in worsening conditions, leading to multiple rescue operations by local authorities and rescue teams.
Authorities Urge Trekkers to Halt Travel
In response to the growing risk, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) have jointly urged all trekkers to temporarily stop trekking in the high-altitude sections of the Annapurna Circuit.
They have also advised trekkers already on the trail to stay where they are, seek shelter in safe villages, and avoid attempting any high mountain crossings - especially Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake routes - until the weather stabilizes.
Additionally, the Chief District Officer (CDO) Office of Manang has officially requested everyone to refrain from trekking and mountain climbing activities in the affected regions until further notice, citing safety concerns due to heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and deteriorating trail conditions.
These organizations collectively emphasized that safety must come first, and crossing passes during such unpredictable weather could be life-threatening.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Local authorities and trekking agencies have mobilized helicopter rescue teams to assist stranded trekkers in higher sections. Several individuals caught in whiteout conditions near Thorong High Camp and Tilicho Base Camp have already been airlifted to safety.
Due to low visibility, strong winds, and freezing temperatures, rescue operations have been challenging, but they continue as weather allows. The Nepal Army, private rescue operators, and local guides are all working together to ensure no one remains stranded in unsafe zones.
Impact on Trekking and Transportation
The ongoing snowfall has temporarily closed the Thorong La Pass route and affected other parts of the Annapurna Circuit, including Manang to Muktinath and Tilicho Lake trails.
Flights between Jomsom and Pokhara have also faced frequent cancellations due to poor visibility, while lower sections like Besisahar to Chame are seeing muddy and slippery conditions caused by rain.
Trekkers currently in lower-altitude villages such as Chame, Pisang, or Manang are advised to stay put, monitor updates, and avoid pushing toward higher camps until the weather clears.
Safety Recommendations for Trekkers
For those planning or already undertaking the Annapurna Circuit Trek, here are a few essential safety reminders during this weather disturbance:
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Avoid Crossing Thorong La Pass until the snowfall stops and trail conditions improve.
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Stay Informed: Follow official updates from NTB, NMA, TAAN, or Best Heritage Tour daily.
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Stay Put: If you’re already in Manang, Yak Kharka, or any higher region, remain there. Local lodges are better equipped to provide shelter and warmth.
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Carry Adequate Cold-Weather Gear: Waterproof boots, down jackets, gloves, and extra layers are essential.
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Keep Communication Open: Stay in touch with your trekking agency or guide for rescue coordination if needed.
Looking Ahead: When Will Conditions Improve?
According to preliminary forecasts, the western disturbance system affecting the Himalayas may continue to cause sporadic snowfall for a few more days. However, weather experts expect clearer skies and calmer conditions from early November.
Once this system passes, the region should gradually return to stable post-monsoon conditions, making trekking possible again - though temperatures will remain cold at higher altitudes.
Best Heritage Tour’s Message to Trekkers
At Best Heritage Tour, our local guides and field teams in the Annapurna region are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with authorities.
We strongly advise all trekkers to prioritize safety above all else. The mountains will always be there - your safety and well-being matter most.
If you are in Nepal or planning to start your trek soon, contact us for the latest on-ground updates, safe itinerary adjustments, and rescheduling assistance once the weather improves.
Stay patient, stay safe, and let nature take its course before you head back into the trails.
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com | bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Info & Booking: www.bestheritagetour.com
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 29th October, 2025
