April to early May and September to November are considered the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek, a popular trail in Nepal.
With monsoon season as an exception, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as ABC Trek witnesses domestic and global trekkers in three seasons – winter, spring, and autumn. Although it is accessible through out the year, best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends on what you seek to experience on the trek. In this blog, we will discuss ABC trek temperature and weather across seasons in detail.
Monsoon starts in June and continues till August end. Heavy rainfall, muddy trails, slippery tracks and occasional landslides are frequent during these months in ABC.
March to April is perfect for trekkers who yearn for soothing spring blooms. Trekkers find the trail awash with vibrant rhododendrons sprouting in full throttle. Autumn months of September to November are considered the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek for magnificent mountain views. Winter begins in December and lasts till February. The season witnesses fewer trekkers on the trail.
Here is a season-wise Annapurna Base Camp weather guide to help you plan one of the most sensational treks in the world.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Winter (December to February) – Empty Trails and Abundant Snow
Annapurna Base Camp has fewer trekkers and solitary trails in winter. Winter begins in December with frigid nights and the season’s first snowfall. Trekking in winter means less crowds in tea houses as the autumn rush wraps up by November. However, heavy and continuous snowfall at higher elevations can hinder your trek, often causing delays and detours.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December
Annapurna Basecamp (ABC) trek in December is best for witnessing snow-covered trails. Very few tea houses remain open in the peak winter season. Book your stay in advance before planning the trek in December.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in January
Annapurna Base Camp trek in January will have empty trails and fewer occupancies in tea houses. The month is for trekkers who enjoy a chilly environment. As snowfall intensifies, fresh snow on the mountains makes them look mesmerizing. While the landscapes turn dreamy, the high passes become tricky to cross in January due to heavy snowfall.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in February
Annapurna Base Camp trek in February will be comfortable to explore. The snow on the lower reaches recedes and wildflowers begin to sprout.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Spring (March to April) – Soothing Spring Blooms
Annapurna Base Camp witnesses an increase in trekkers’ footfall in spring. March to April is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek as it is a perfect alternative to the busy autumn months. The lower reaches bloom with vibrant rhododendrons, painting the entire trail in pink and bright red shades.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March
In March, the higher elevations feature remnants of accumulated winter snow. The lower regions embrace soothing colours. The villages along the way come alive with the fervor of spring. March is perfect to avoid the popular season of autumn.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April
Annapurna Base Camp trek in April welcomes trekkers to a forest laden with rhododendrons blooming in full throttle. Clear skies complement the towering Annapurna Massif glowing right in front of you.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended
Pre-monsoon arrives in May in Nepal and Annapurna Base Camp with occasional showers. The haze in the air hinders clear mountain views in May. Come prepared with rain gear if you are trekking in May.
June to August is not safe to trek the ABC. Avoid trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in the monsoon season between June and August.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn (September to November) – Magnificent Mountain Views
September to November is considered the best month to trek the ABC. It is the most popular season for the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Autumn season is characterized by clear skies, dust-free trails, mild greenery on the trail and excellent views of some of the highest peaks in the world.
The tea houses throughout the trail will be bustling with trekkers worldwide. Since autumn is a popular season, you will meet the global trekking community on the Annapurna Base Camp trail.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September
September marks the beginning of autumn and lasts till November. The entire landscape is replenished after the monsoon season in September. September offers spectacular and crisp views of Mt. Machapuchre and Annapurna Massif. Autumn hues paint the entire trail in shades of fall, enhancing beauty of the trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October
Annapurna Base Camp embraces deep autumn hues in October. A tinge of brown, golden and orange splashes the forest and the valleys. There is a wave of excitement in the air as Nepal celebrates one of the most important festivals of Dashain in October.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November
In November, trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is for witnessing festive enthusiasm and celebrations. Nepal celebrates the festival of Diwali, Tihar in November. The month gives you a close account of Nepali culture. Villages along the trail are embellished with marigold bloom. Clear mountain views, immersive cultural experiences and festive fervour make November one of the best times to visit the Annapurna Basecamp trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal is one of the most popular treks in the world. ABC trek owes its popularity to its comfortable access to a grand view of the eight-thousanders. When you land in Pokhara for your trek, you will be treated to the very first glimpse of Mt. Annapurna.
Annapurna Base Camp trek is a truly mesmerising experience that will awaken you. As you traverse the trail, you will witness stunning views of the majestic mountain ranges. The trek takes you through picturesque rice and paddy fields, terrace farming, enchanting forests of rhododendrons, and breathtaking alpine landscapes with the Annapurna mountain range looming ahead.
ABC trail passes through the dense forest of the Annapurna Conservation Area. On this trek, you are in for a surprise. Vibrant shades of rhododendrons, bamboo trees, and oaks keep you company at lower altitudes.
The sceneries of Annapurna Base Camp are a feast for the eyes, offering breathtaking views of the Greater Himalayas up close. The magnificent Annapurna massif stands tall right in front, with Annapurna Dakshin, Machapuchre, and Himchuli offering a distinct view that leaves you yearning for more from the very first day.
Located inside the Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from Kimchey village. The base camp is around 2-3 hours from Pokhara. The trek is categorised as moderate to challenging and spreads over nine days. It is around 70 km long and has long walking hours. The trek takes you to an altitude of 13,550ft.
If you have prior trekking experience and are now looking to broaden your horizons, then the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a must-do for you.
