Several major trekking routes in the Annapurna Conservation Area have been affected by recent adverse weather conditions, with three popular routes currently closed and others remaining open as of September 27, 2026. Authorities have urged trekkers and tourism stakeholders to closely monitor trail conditions and weather forecasts before beginning their journeys.
Major Annapurna Routes Currently Closed
The Round Annapurna Circuit, Manang Route, and Jomsom–Muktinath Route have been closed due to the recent weather conditions. The closures come amid forecasts of continued heavy rainfall in various parts of Nepal, raising concerns over trail conditions and safety in high-altitude and mountainous areas.
| Trekking Route | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Round Annapurna Circuit | Closed |
| Manang Route | Closed |
| Jomsom–Muktinath Route | Closed |
The closure of these routes is particularly significant for trekkers planning longer journeys through the Annapurna region, where heavy rainfall can affect trails, bridges, roads and other access infrastructure.
Several Popular Trekking Routes Remain Open
Meanwhile, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), Mardi Himal, Ghorepani–Poon Hill and Ghandruk are currently open for visitors. However, the open status does not mean that conditions are static, as trails can change rapidly during periods of heavy rainfall. Trekkers planning to visit these destinations have been advised to obtain the latest information on trail conditions and weather before setting out.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast Until September 28
According to the latest weather-related notice, there is a continued possibility of heavy rainfall in various parts of Nepal from 8 to 12 Ashwin 2083 B.S. The notice has been issued for the information and safety of tourists as well as other concerned stakeholders. Given the possibility of changing weather and trail conditions, trekkers are advised to remain cautious and make travel decisions based on the latest information available from the concerned authorities.
Conservation Area Entry Permits to Resume
Under the latest arrangements, entry permits for the Annapurna, Manaslu and Gaurishankar Conservation Areas may be issued from 12:00 PM on September 27, 2026 (11 Ashwin 2083 B.S.). However, the issuance of permits does not mean immediate entry into the conservation areas. Tourists will be allowed to enter from the morning of September 28, 2026 (12 Ashwin 2083 B.S.), following an assessment of trekking trail conditions and prevailing weather.
Licensed Guides Made Mandatory for Longer Treks
Authorities have also emphasized the importance of safety measures for trekkers traveling to longer-distance trekking destinations. As trail conditions may change due to ongoing monsoon weather, tourists heading to trekking destinations other than Jomsom, Muktinath, Ghandruk and other short-distance destinations have been requested to travel with a licensed trekking guide on a mandatory basis. The arrangement is intended to strengthen visitor safety and ensure that trekkers have professional support while navigating potentially changing trail conditions.
Trekkers Urged to Check Latest Updates
Tourists and tourism stakeholders have been requested to regularly check the latest information on weather and trekking routes before commencing their journeys. Conditions in the mountain areas can change quickly, and routes currently listed as open may also be affected if rainfall intensifies. The latest route status should therefore be considered alongside real-time weather and trail assessments when planning trekking activities in the Annapurna region.
