best time to trek annapurna base camp

Annapurna Base Camp is the most common and ideal trekking destination in Nepal. Routes are primarily crowded in the spring and autumn seasons but empty in the monsoon and rainy seasons. The toughest time would be throughout the time of winter. Most of the guides suggest trekking around May and September would be the best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp.

Trekking around ABC is a spectacular experience that eternally remains in your lifetime memory. Annapurna Base Camp Trek nearly takes 6-12 days to end the journey. To start the journey it only takes 2 hour's drive from Pokhara - Nayapul. You get connected with the locals experiencing their Tibetan culture, traditions, and indigenous lifestyles. You also pass across many picturesque villages, green forests, long suspension bridges, glaring waterfalls, and Buddhist monasteries.

Annapurna Base Camp in Spring Season

Spring season in Annapurna Base Camp starts in March and ends in May. Sun is high in the sky in this period of time, the weather gets warmer with the clear blue sky, but cold at night. The minimum temperature ranges from 16- 17 degrees, however, at the time of night temperature falls to negative 2-3 degrees Celsius.

Forest areas have their own freshness and intoxicating smell of the rhododendron flower, Nepal's national flower. Trails are usually rocky. From here, you can also see the best view of the Annapurna Alps covered with snow. There is a sumptuous natural hot spring in Jhinu Danda, where you can soak yourself and detox your skin naturally. Pre-booking of the rooms will ease your trek, as there are numerous trekkers visiting simultaneously.

Annapurna Base Camp in Autumn Season

Generally, the autumn season falls from mid-September to November. The autumn season is also called post-monsoon. It is the best season for trekking around Annapurna Base Camp. Large number of trekkers are seen all around this season so there is huge traffic throughout the trek. The Base Camp is being huddled with trekkers. The skies are mostly clear and dry consequently, there is very less chance of rainfall in which the temperature remains 20 degree Celsius at day and cools off to 5 degree Celsius at night. In September, there is a low wind breeze.

You may have the best view of the Himalayas and landscapes with serene and pleasant weather. You can see the astonishing view of  Dhaulagiri  Annapurna (I),(II), (III), (IV); Annapurna South,  Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Hiunchuli, and Manaslu.

There is less risk of avalanche. Also, in this season you have to prebook the accommodation otherwise the teahouses are filled with trekkers.

Annapurna Base Camp in the winter season

The winter season in Nepal starts in December and ends around February. In the daytime temperature ranges from 0 - 5 degree Celsius on the other hand during the night it might drop to minus 15 degree Celsius. Annapurna Base Camp Trek has risky trails during winter.

Therefore in this season, very less amount of trekkers arrive and trails become more empty.  You can also experience snowfall at 0 degrees Celsius. Trekking over winter is risky since there is a high chance of avalanche. Trails are mostly covered with snow thus, you will hike in the snow. It might be challenging to walk through the snow nevertheless it will be an enduring experience. You should be prepared for all kinds of weather changes before you hit the trail.

Annapurna Base Camp in Summer/ monsoon season

Summer or monsoon season falls from June to September. Basically, weather remains hot and dry. Excessive walking in the sun may cause dehydration and sunburn. The trails are muddy and slippery so many of the accidents may occur during this season. The mountain is less visible due to gloomy and cloudy weather. There might be a risk of flood and landslides.

After rainfall, the sky gets clear and the atmosphere settles down there you can see the panoramic view of landscapes. You don't need heavy jackets light windproof jackets would be enough. Mosquitoes and leeches might create disturbances while walking. Don't forget to carry raincoats, you're trekking in between monsoon seasons.

Conclusion

The best time to trek in Annapurna Base Camp would be during spring and autumn seasons. You can see the mesmerizing view of the Annapurna range, landscapes, and walk through the green forest. In every season you can encounter something new and adventurous. Annapurna Base Camp Trek makes your journey more memorable and adventurous at the same time.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the first preference for many trekkers. The weather is very unpredictable in this region, so check it occasionally. You must have all the travel gear and itinerary for safe travels. Put on lightweight warm clothes. Carry a hydro flask bottle before starting the trek, on the way you can refill in taps or water streams. Make sure to keep your medications like antibiotics, bandages, and first aid.