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Best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp is one of the favorite trekking destinations in the Annapurna region which is at an elevation of 4,130m. Annapurna Base Camp Trek travelers through forested trails traversing beautiful settlements with a towering mountain backdrop. The beautiful scenic landscapes, natural greenery, snow-capped mountains, and various flora and fauna in the surroundings mesmerize everyone. Annapurna Base Camp trek is less difficult compared to the popular Everest and isolated Manaslu treks. Annapurna treks are possible to do in all seasons as they offer variety and newness to travelers. Still, the best time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered during peak seasons: Spring and Autumn in Nepal.
Spring and Autumn seasons weather are favorable, with moderate temperatures offering phenomenal vistas. Monsoons in Nepal receive heavy rainfall and cloudy weather. Winter in Nepal receives heavy snowfall in higher regions with cold, chilling temperatures. With proper planning, weather forecast results, and professional guidance, Annapurna Base Camp treks in Monsoon and Winter are also possible. We present this article to provide useful insights for travelers on the ‘Best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek’ to decide to choose their best months and plan accordingly.
Table of Contents
Which season is Best for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). During these seasons, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are mild, making the trekking conditions ideal. You will enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna range and experience comfortable trekking conditions, with a lower chance of rain or snow disrupting your journey. These seasons also offer the best opportunities for acclimatization, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek to the Base Camp.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
7 Days
Trekking
USD 449 per person
Annapurna Base Camp Trek With Poon Hill
9 Days
Trekking
USD 625 per person
Spring (March-May)
This is one of the best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The weather is warm, and the skies are clear, offering amazing views of the mountains. The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Recommended for trekkers looking for great weather and beautiful scenery.
Pros:
- Ideal weather with mild temperatures.
- Clear skies and stunning mountain views.
- Rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
- Great conditions for trekking with fewer chances of rain or snow.
Cons:
- It can be crowded, especially in popular trekking areas like Annapurna Base Camp.
- Higher demand for accommodations and permits may lead to busier trails.
- Temperatures can still drop at higher altitudes, so you need to be well-prepared.
Average Temperature for Spring:
| Location | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Pokhara | 20°C to 25°C | 10°C to 12°C |
| Tadapani (2,600m) | 10°C to 15°C | 3°C to 5°C |
| MBC (3,700m) | 5°C to 10°C | -2°C to 0°C |
| ABC (4,130m) | 2°C to 5°C | -5°C to -2°C |
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn is another peak season for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather is crisp and clear, providing perfect trekking conditions with excellent views of the mountains. This season is highly popular among trekkers, and you’ll meet many fellow adventurers on the trail. Recommended for those wanting stable weather and a vibrant trekking experience.Pros:
- Perfect weather with cool temperatures and clear skies.
- Best time for stunning views of the Annapurna range.
- Mild conditions make trekking more comfortable.
- One of the most popular trekking seasons, so trails are well-maintained.
Cons:
- As the season progresses, temperatures can drop in higher altitudes.
- Very popular season, so you might encounter crowded trails and teahouses.
- Limited availability of accommodations and permits can make bookings more difficult.
Average Temperature for Autumn:
| Location | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Pokhara | 18°C to 23°C | 8°C to 12°C |
| Tadapani (2,600m) | 8°C to 13°C | 2°C to 5°C |
| MBC (3,700m) | 2°C to 7°C | -3°C to 0°C |
| ABC (4,130m) | -1°C to 5°C | -6°C to -3°C |
Summer/Monsoon (June-August)
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Nepal, making trekking conditions more challenging. The trails become slippery and muddy, and there is a higher risk of landslides. However, the landscape is lush and green, and fewer trekkers are on the trail. Not recommended for most trekkers due to the weather challenges and potential hazards.
Pros:
- Lush green landscapes due to abundant rainfall.
- Fewer trekkers, leading to a quieter and more peaceful experience.
- Beautiful waterfalls and streams that are more pronounced during the monsoon.
Cons:
- Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and prone to landslides.
- Higher risk of altitude sickness due to damp weather and humidity.
- Trails can become muddy and uncomfortable, making trekking more difficult.
- Many higher-altitude areas can be dangerous or inaccessible due to snowmelt and rain.
Average Temperature for Monsoon:
| Location | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Pokhara | 25°C to 30°C | 20°C to 22°C |
| Tadapani (2,600m) | 15°C to 18°C | 10°C to 12°C |
| MBC (3,700m) | 7°C to 12°C | 3°C to 5°C |
| ABC (4,130m) | 2°C to 6°C | -3°C to 0°C |
Winter (December-February)
While winter offers a quieter and more peaceful trekking experience, the temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes, with snow and ice on the trails. The lower regions are still accessible, but the higher parts, including the Base Camp, can be very cold. Not recommended for those not accustomed to cold weather, but experienced trekkers may enjoy the challenge if they are well-prepared.
Highly recommend Himalaya trip for ABC Trek
From day one the communication and support from Himalaya trip has been exceptional. We were initially planning the trip for October 2025, but had to move it to March 2026. The management team was super understanding about the situation and we seamlessly changed plans. Our guide for the trip was Ramesh, along with two porters who made the entire journey so much easier and carefree. Everything was organised and taken care of. March being a busy season, with lodges being overbooked, Ramesh especially made sure that we were always sorted and got the best of the options available. He was very clear throughout about what to expect during the journey and how to prepare. Also took us through the most beautiful routes. During unexpected situations, we consistently felt genuine care and a sense of security around us thanks to Ramesh and the porters. I would highly recommend Himalaya trip for anyone who is considering trekking in Nepal!
Our ABC Trek experience with Himalaya Trip was incredible
Our experience with Himalaya Trip was incredible. We were guided by Ramesh who is an absolute delight and 12/10 as a guide – a trip full of laughter, great stories, and thoughtful insights into Nepal and its culture. We went as a group of 4 to Annapurna Base Camp trek and it was unforgettable as a trip. We also hired porters who were also very kind, smiley and friendly – this genuine warmth and kindness from every member of Himalaya trip company really made our trip. Ramesh was expert level guidance in everything from food recommendations, to what to wear and expect the next day in the terrain. Everything was well organized and easy to follpw. He also really made us feel safe when my sister got sick from the altitude. We really felt we experienced Nepali hospitality where we were treated as guests, welcomed, and cared for. Communication was great throughout, reliable, and easy to follow. There was everything from time for photos, rest, trekking, and challenges in between. I definitely plan on returning and hopefully doing Everest base camp with Himalaya Trips and maybe even summiting!!! Thank you Ramesh and amazing team 🙏
Jay: What a great guide
We had a really nice trek to ABC. Unfortunately we faced rain and then snow (30 cm). Jay, our guide, was very professional ensuring our safety and getting us down the mountain in time, and obtaining extra blankets at our booked guest houses. You could tell he had the experience needed for such situations.
I also would like to share that Harka, the tour manager, was extremely helpful and flexible with changing our itinerary and transport method as needed due to weather conditions. As important, Harka was very honest in dealing with us.
We highly recommend both of them. Enzo and Flavio
We are very happy to have successfully completed the Nepal ABC Trek
We are very happy to have successfully completed the Nepal ABC Trek and sincerely thank the “Himalaya Trip Private Limited” Trekking team.
Special thanks to Harka for providing detailed information before departure, arranging airport pickup and drop-off, and thoroughly explaining the itinerary.
Ramesh took great care of us throughout the journey, ensuring our meals and accommodation were well-managed. When he noticed that we were struggling with our physical stamina, he suggested an alternative route. Although it was slightly longer, the path was easier to navigate. Since the porter couldn’t always stay with us, Ramesh also helped carry some of our belongings, making it possible for us to complete the trek. His arrangements were truly flexible and considerate.
Markus and Aita always had bright smiles on their faces. They helped with our luggage, checked our rooms to ensure nothing was left behind, chatted with us along the way, and took photos with us. They gave us a sense of genuine warmth and simplicity that is hard to find in the city.
Once again, a heartfelt thanks to Harka, Ramesh, Markus, and Aita ? ?
P.S. The Himalaya Trekking team celebrated uncle and aunt’s birthdays for two consecutive days, which was truly a wonderful surprise and deeply touching.
I sincerely hope to hike with your team again in the future ?
13 pax group for ABC trek with Harka
We arranged for a 13 pax group for the ABC trek with Harka. Even with a big group size, Harka and his team took good care of us. The itinerary was customized based on our needs and fitness level. Top-notch service was provided throughout our 10 days in Nepal. Our guide, Hari did an amazing job ensuring all of us were able to cope with the altitude and long trek well. During the trip, we requested some changes to the itinerary and they were able to accommodate our last-minute request. Would totally come back to them if we are planning for EBC and recommend it to those who wish to visit Nepal.
Unforgettable and its a real adventure
Haari, our tour guide, was great. He is very friendly, patient, accommodating with everyone and a mountain of knowledge about the Himalayas (very very enthusiastic about EBC, haha). He was well prepared with first aids and brought us to places to get gears and stuff that we missed out before our hike. He made plans ahead and keep us informed, totally made our ABC adventure so much more enjoyable and relaxed. The porters were super helpful and thoughtful, despite carrying our bags around the mountains they keep us entertained with their carefree personalities and great dancing skills 🙂 (yeah, they partied at one of the teahouse we stayed). OH did I mentioned, one of our member left his camera at the previous teahouse we stayed and only realised when we arrived at the next accommodation (after 12 hours) and one of the porter volunteered to return and pick up the camera for our member, and I’m sure he was sprinting and down 6 red bull and came back in 5hours. We were very lucky and blessed indeed. Haari’s brother, Harka is the operation/ owner of the tour agency and he was also very kind and did a fantastic job in ensuring our last few days in Kathmandu a pleasant one. We had good conversations with everyone of them and all in all a great experience and a wonderful times in this beautiful country.
our honeymoon trekking
My husband and I spent our honeymoon trekking to Annapurna Base Camp and Harka was our guide. We were so pleased to have Harka as he was the perfect guide for us. Naturally he has excellent knowledge and always gently guided us into the correct decision. We were quite worried about spending so much time with someone we didn’t know. But Harka had the magic ability to know when to leave us in peace and when to spend time with us. He was very gentlemanly, with perfect manners and as I said an innate ability to know what to do. He wasn’t too distant nor too friendly. We did see other guides who didn’t get this balance right and who if they had been with us would have affected our trip for the worse. Harka was just perfect for us and I would recommend him to anyone.
I and my girlfriend took a ABC Trek
In the march of 2012, my girlfriend and I took a trip to the Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal. We have hired a guide Harka Gurung , a local guide (26), who was recommended by my friends.First, he has sent us the list of things to take with us, this information is very valuable for us, since we know what to take with us. The weather conditions were pretty rough, but we did not freeze and need anything. Harka is very fond of safety, starting from the recommendations about the food and water and ending with advice was and how to pass the Avalanche area, steep slopes, and so on. He was very nice to us and told us a lot of stories about Nepali habits, culture, and history; he was always joking and did not show any signs of angriness when we were going to slow or wanted to have rest.
Harka went all the way with us and without him our travel would not have been so nice and safe.I definitely will choose home as a guide for my next trips to Nepal and recommend him to anyone who wants to feel comfortable and nice during the trek.
We met Harka in September 2010
We met Harka in September 2010. He was going to be our trekking guide up to Annapurna Base Camp and he was more than that! He became a good friend! He is patient (he kept us going all the way up to ABC!), kind, knowledgeable, and has a real love for sharing his culture and exchanging thoughts life! We had some inspiring chats. He cares about his people, he has a heart of gold. WE would trek with him again forever, and more than that, we are still in touch because he did become one very good friend and we wish him all the best for his life. He deserves all the happiness he can get. Namaste saathi!
Sharing his culture and exchanging thoughts life
We met Harka in September 2010. He was going to be our trekking guide up to Annapurna Base Camp and he was more than that! He became a good friend! He is patient (he kept us going all the way up to ABC!), kind, knowledgeable, and has a real love for sharing his culture and exchanging thoughts life! We had some inspiring chats. He cares about his people, he has a heart of gold. We would trek with him again forever, and more than that, we are still in touch because he did become one very good friend and we wish him all the best for his life. He deserves all the happiness he can get. Namaste saathi!
Love from Spain,
Good, well organised and excellent value trip
I am more than happy to recommend Harka – he was very helpful and organised a good and professional trek (I did the Annapurna Base Camp trek with two friends). Our guide Shyam spoke good English and our two porters were a huge asset, carrying stuff we couldn’t have done ourselves. All for a very reasonable price.
UK, April 2019
amazing guide Nirmal and porter Anil
A wonderful 8 day trek, led by our amazing guide Nirmal and porter Anil. It was April, and this is a very busy month, so despite the company booking in advance, we struggled to find a room on several occasions – but the overall experience and mountain views surpassed all. Thank you, Nirmal and Anil, we’ll come again!!
USA, April 2019
Highly recommended, friendly family-run company.
We booked a 7 day Annapurna Base Camp trek with Himalaya Trip in Sep. Communication when booking was excellent and they were very accommodating to fit in with our dates and pick up/drop off locations. The manager, Harka, was very quick to respond and provided good information about what to take. On arrival, Harka met us at our hotel in Kathmandu and explained the full plan for the trip giving us all our tickets and trekking passes. He also met us in the morning to ensure we got on the correct bus to Pokhara where we would meet our guide.
The guide and porter were very good: both were very friendly and couldn’t do enough to make sure we were comfortable and safe at all times. We were particularly impressed when we asked to change the plan for the last day of the trek and he gave us a few options and rebooked our accommodation and transport plan to fit. Even though the porter spoke little English he was friendly and helpful throughout.
Himalaya Trip clearly a local, family-run business and I would highly recommend booking directly with them as it was better value for money than going through an agent in the UK and also supports their local community. We will certainly use them again for future trekking adventures in Nepal.
UK, September 2019
ABC Made Memorable by Harka Gurung and Himalaya Trip !
Our little group of three were introduced to Himalaya Trip and its Founder, Harka Gurung, from another Malaysian who had trekked in Nepal in 2018.
For our trek to ABC, I found Harka and his guide, Om and his two porters, Buddhi Man and Samsher, all Gurungs from their home state, to be exceptionally professional, courteous, friendly and accommodating at all times.
We quickly warmed to the Gurungs’ easygoing nature and friendly, no-nonsense dispositions, made all the more memorable by Samsher and Buddhi Man’s mountain songs and spontaneous dancing whilst on the trail!
I cannot therefore recommend Harka, Om, Samsher and Buddhi Man more highly for your next trip to this beautiful land as Nepal Hidden Treks will definitely be my first port of call when I next visit, hopefully with my children.
The defining feature of Harka and his men are that this is a family business for the Gurung tribe which places employment, professional standards and career opportunities on equal if not higher measure than commercial profit, which ultimately benefits the lucky client.
Malaysia, November 2019
Daenerys Had Fantastic ABC Trek
Harka responds quickly to every query, and the guide ( om gurung) and porters ( samsher and buddi man gurung) were so friendly and accommodating. We did the 7 day Annapurna base camp trek and we had a fantastic time. Highly recommended.
Malaysia, November 2019
Amazing 7 Days Trek
Our ABC trek was fantastic, with beautiful scenery! We had a great time with our very friendly guide Ramesh, who organized everything (food, drinks, teahouse rooms) very well, and made us feel safe all the way. We would definitely recommend to book with Himalaya Trip.
Netherlands, September 2022
Harka organised an amazing trip
Harka organised an amazing trip with a porter and guide for us to trek to and from Annapurna Base Camp over 7 days in September. The communication pre and post trip was excellent and our guide and porter during the trek provided an exceptional service. Couldn’t recommend this company highly enough.
UK, September 2022
Superb service
I did ABC trek 7 days with Surpa the guide, he took a very good care of me, checked if I am fine all along the way. Couldn’t ask for any better service. Before the trek Harka also briefed about the route I am going to do both email and in-person.
Thailand, October 2022
Excellent trip in Nepal
We had our trip to Annapurna base camp with Himalaya Trip in november and there were 9 hiking days. We really enjoyed the trip and organisation by the guide Surpa. Everything was thoroughly thought out, i.e accommodation, food, hiking distances etc. Surpa took a really great care of us and ensured us the safety of the trip and all the comforts. Supra is a very friendly, nice and helpful guide. We will definitely recommend Himalaya Trip and Surpa to our friends.
Estonia, November 2023
Authentic ABC Trek
It was a great experience of ABC Trek that the Himalaya Trip company and the guide provided clear details and support for the trip, especially the trekking journey to ABC. I highly recommend this trek.
Hongkong, November 2023
Amazing Annapurna Base Camp Trek
An amazing trek to ABC (Annapurna Base Camp). The views of Fishtail and Annapurna were extraordinary and the hiking through Ghandruk was beautiful. The guide (Milan) and the porter (Misak) were excellent and we had a great time chatting to them in English (and also in Nepalese!) They were very kind, offering us fruits after dinner and cushions to sit on when we took breaks. The trip was very well organised and all the hotels had been organised and booked in advance. We highly recommend taking this trek with Himalaya Trip.
Pros:
- Fewer trekkers, leading to a more tranquil and private experience.
- Clear skies provide excellent views of the mountains.
- Snow-covered landscapes offer a unique and peaceful trekking experience.
Cons:
- Extremely cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
- Risk of heavy snowfall and icy trails that can make trekking dangerous.
- Limited teahouse services in some areas due to the low number of trekkers.
- Requires careful preparation for cold conditions and higher risk of altitude sickness.
Average Temperature for Winter:
| Location | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Pokhara | 15°C to 20°C | 5°C to 8°C |
| Tadapani (2,600m) | 5°C to 8°C | -3°C to 0°C |
| MBC (3,700m) | -2°C to 3°C | -10°C to -5°C |
| ABC (4,130m) | -5°C to 0°C | -15°C to -10°C |
Trekking Season in Nepal
Nepal, there are four main trekking seasons: Spring (March-May), Autumn (September-November), Summer/Monsoon (June-August), and Winter (December-February). The most popular trekking seasons are Spring and Autumn because of the stable weather, comfortable temperatures, and clear views. These seasons offer the best trekking conditions, making them the ideal choice for most trekkers.
For those who are experienced and seeking a more challenging adventure, trekking in the Winter and Monsoon seasons is possible. During these off-seasons, you will encounter fewer trekkers, unique landscapes, and a quieter experience. However, the weather can be harsher, with more rain during the monsoon and cold temperatures in winter, so you should be well-prepared for these conditions.
Average Day and Night Temperatures
| Seasons | Average Day and Night Temperature |
| Spring | Day: 15°C to 25°C Night: 5°C to (-10) °C |
| Autumn | Day: 15°C to 17°C Night: 5°C to (-10) °C |
| Monsoon | Day: 15°C to 20°C Night: 0°C to (-5°) C |
| Winter | Day: 5°C to 10°C Night: 0°C to (-25) °C |
All Seasons Monthly Temperature Chart
| Seasons | Months (Day and Night Temperature) |
| Spring | March: Day: 10°C to 12°C, Night: 4°C to (-8°C) April: Day: 15°C to 20°C, Night: 8°C to (-4°C) May: Day: 17°C to 25°C, Night: 0°C to 5°C |
| Autumn | September: Day: 10°C to 15°C, Night: 5°C to (-7°C) October: Day: 10°C to 17°C, Night: 4°C to (-5°C) November: Day: 10°C to 12°C, Night: 5°C to (-10°C) |
| Summer/Monsoon | June: Day: 10°C to 17°C, Night: 6°C to (-4°C) July: Day: 10°C to 12°C, Night: 4°C to (-5°C) August: Day: 10°C to 20°C, Night: 8°C to (-3°C) |
| Winter | December: Day: 5°C to 10°C, Night: 0°C to (-25°C) January: Day: 7°C to 10°C, Night: 0°C to (-15°C) February: Day: 7°C to 12°C, Night: 0°C to (-15°C) |
Tips for the Best Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Be prepared for unpredictable weather changes.
- Daily up-to-date weather forecasts.
- Pack the right and suitable gear according to the trek seasons.
- Don’t forget to pack a rain poncho and umbrella during the Monsoon.
- Get an Annapurna Base Camp comprehensive packing list from tour operators.
- Pack essential clothes and gear to minimize backpack capacity and a comfortable trekking experience.
- Consult or take ideas from a tour operator regarding the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
- Carry a water purification kit to prevent waterborne diseases and medicines to use for altitude sickness.
- Make sure shoes are strong and comfortable to trek for long hours.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Packing List
We suggest packing warm but light seasonal clothes and only packing essentials to minimize backpack capacity. The weather is generally warm in the lower regions of the Annapurna Base Camp, and as the elevation gains, the weather becomes colder. In winter, it is cold in the lower regions as well. Pack rain poncho during monsoon as rain is expected. Packing List for Annapurna Base Camp is mentioned below:
- Trekking boots (If new boots are purchased, “break them in” to avoid blisters) and spare laces
- Hat (Warm), scarf and gloves
- Trousers (Warm trousers are useful in the mountains in the morning and at night.
- Running shoes, sandals, or thongs (To wear in the camp at night or when your boots are wet).
- Spikes (Spring and Winter)
- Shorts and trousers
- Wool-blend socks, liner socks, and underwear (three pairs)
- Thermal underwear
- Sunhat
- Fleece jacket
- T-shirts (two or three) and a long-sleeved shirt with a collar (a long-sleeved – shirt is particularly suitable for avoiding sunburn.)
- Laundry soap powder or bar
- Toilet paper
- Sunscreen (SPF 20+) and lip balm
- Sunglasses
- Pocket knife
- Iodine, water-purification tablets, or filter
- Insect repellent (for lower elevation)
- Stuff sacks
- Earplugs
- Backpack
- Sleeping back and silk liner
- Water bottle
- Torch (flashlight), spare batteries and bulbs
- Duffle bag
- Crampon
- Down jacket or down vest
- Rain Poncho, Umbrella (optional)
- Camera, memory card, and battery charger (spare batteries)
- Books and magazines
- Trekking poles
- Quick-drying camp towel
- Day pack (This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirements for the day e.g. toilet items, cameras, towel, soap, chocolate bar, etc.)
- 2-4 large plastic bags to separate clean clothes from dirty ones
- Personal medical supplies
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp is during Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). These seasons offer the most favorable weather conditions, including mild temperatures, clear skies, and stunning views of the mountains, making them ideal for trekking. Whether it’s the vibrant rhododendron forests in spring or the crisp, clear autumn skies, these seasons provide the perfect trekking experience.
On the other hand, Summer/Monsoon (June-August) and Winter (December-February) present more challenges. The monsoon brings heavy rainfall and slippery trails, while winter offers freezing temperatures and snow at higher altitudes. Therefore, if you seek the best trekking conditions, Spring and Autumn are your top choices for the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
