Most Popular Less Crowded Adventure
annapurna base camp 4130m

22 Feb 2024 Himalaya Trip

ABC Trek Overview

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 trail 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 mesmerizes everyone. Annapurna Base Camp trek is less difficult compared to popular Everest and isolated Manaslu treks. Annapurna treks is possible to do in all seasons as it offers diversity and newness to the travelers. Still, the best time for Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered during peak seasons: Spring and Autumn in Nepal.

Spring and Autumn seasons weather are favorable with moderate temperature offering phenomenal vistas. Monsoon in Nepal receives heavy rainfall with cloudy weather. Winter in Nepal receives heavy snowfall at higher regions with cold chilling temperature. With proper planning, weather forecast results, and professional guidance Annapurna Base Camp treks in Monsoon and Winter is also possible. We present this article to provide useful insights for travelers on ‘Best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek’ to decide to choose their best months and plan accordingly.

Highlights of the trek

  • Popular Classic Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
  • Varied flora and fauna in the surroundings of the Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Scenic Landscapes, Natural Greenery, Snow-capped Mountains
  • Traditional Gurung Villages, their culture, and lifestyle
  • Blossoming Rhododendron and seasonal flowers in Spring
  • Lush greenery in Rainy/Monsoon
  • Clear and bright scenery in Autumn
  • Heavy snow and panoramic mountain views in Winter
  • Stunning views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Barahi Shikhar, Annapurna I, Glacier Dom, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhre, etc

Trekking Season in Nepal

Mainly there are four trekking seasons in Nepal: Spring, Autumn, Summer/Monsoon, and Winter. All four seasons treat travelers with diverse scenery, and a unique trekking experience to the travelers. Most trekkers prefer peak seasons Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) for trekking due to stable weather and temperature and awesome views. Experienced and adventurous trekkers dare to trek in off-seasons Winter and Monsoon.

Average Day and Night Temperatures

SeasonsAverage Day and Night Temperature
SpringDay: 15°C to 25°C Night: 5°C to (-10) °C
AutumnDay: 15°C to 17°C Night: 5°C to (-10) °C
MonsoonDay: 15°C to 20°C Night: 0°C to (-5°) C
WinterDay: 5°C to 10°C Night: 0°C to (-25) °C
Average Day and Night Temperatures

All Seasons Monthly Temperature Chart

SeasonsMonths (Day and Night Temperature)
SpringMarch: 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
AutumnSeptember: 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/MonsoonJune: 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)
WinterDecember: 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)
All Seasons Temperature Chart

Which season is Best for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Spring (March to May):

  • Ideal season for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
  • Weather is mild and temperature is warm during the days.
  • Slightly windy and cold temperature during the night.
  • Bright days with clear skies.
  • Comfortable trekking trails offering breathtaking sceneries.
  • Witness blooming rhododendron and seasonal flowers throughout the trails.
  • Trails are crowded and teahouses are mostly occupied.

Autumn (September to November):

  • Second-best season for the ABC Trek.
  • Moderate temperature with warm weather.
  • Warm welcome and treats with local foods as this is a festive season.
  • Clear weather just after Monsoon offers clear and beautiful vistas of landscapes, and snow-capped mountains.
  • Abundant availability of teahouses.

Monsoon (June to August):

  • Lush greenery and nature at its best during the trek.
  • Muddy and slippery trails.
  • Chances of landslides due to continuous rain and biting from leeches.
  • Mostly cloudy which hides the scenery.
  • Trails directions are difficult to track.
  • Plenty availability of teahouses.
  • Slightly cold weather.
  • Possible to trek with proper preparations.
  • Carry rain poncho or umbrella.

Winter (December to February):

  • Cold weather, degrading temperature but clear skies.
  • Expect heavy snowfalls in the higher elevations.
  • Wonderful views of snow-covered mountains
  • Plenty availability of teahouses.
  • Challenging to trek due to changeable weather and temperature.
  • Suitable for experienced and adventure seeking trekkers with proper planning and preparation.
  • Chances of avalanche and snow landslides.
  • Crampons are recommended for this trek.

Tips for Best Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  • Be prepared for unpredictable weather changes.
  • Daily up-to-date with weather forecasts.
  • Pack right and suitable gear according to the trek seasons.
  • Don’t forget to pack rain poncho and umbrella during 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 water purification kit to prevent water borne diseases, 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 pack essentials to minimize backpack capacity. The weather is generally warm in the lower regions in the Annapurna Base Camp and at 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

Annapurna Base Camp FAQs

Which month is best for Annapurna base camp trek?

March to May and September to November months are the best months for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

What time of year is best for Annapurna Base Camp trek?

Spring season in the year is best for Annapurna Base Camp trek due to stable temperature and weather and blooming flower seasons offering beautiful views.

How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderately difficult trek that requires trekkers having good physical fitness.

Which is harder Everest Base Camp or Annapurna?

Everest Base Camp’s elevation is 5,364 m while Annapurna Base Camp’s elevation is 4,130m. Comparatively Everest is harder than Annapurna Trek.

Is Annapurna Base Camp for beginners?

Annapurna Base Camp’s maximum elevation gain is 4,130 m. It is achievable for beginner trekkers having good physical fitness and strong determination.

How expensive is Annapurna Base Camp?

Annapurna Base Camp’s overall cost depends on the chosen trek duration, trek route, types of accommodation, transportation, and additional services. This trek is less expensive if you manage the budget well and minimize the trek duration.

Is Annapurna Base Camp worth it?

Annapurna Base Camp trek offers breathtaking views of Annapurna Mountain Ranges and other peaks along with scenic landscapes, traditional Gurung villages, natural hot spring Jhinu which makes Annapurna Base Camp Trek worthy.

Is Annapurna Base Camp crowded?

Annapurna Base Camp is crowded in peak seasons Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov).

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