Annapurna Base Camp is incredibly charming and enjoyable to visit any time. But, the magic that March brings with it to the region is pre-eminent. Great weather, thinner crowds, magnificent scenery, and so much more are happening around the time.
The atmosphere is so alleviating and gleeful in March that people will relish every bit of it. Their travel schedule at Annapurna Base Camp will be filled with scenic excursions and sightseeing. March’s perfect weather with clear sky brings out the best of all-the landscapes, mountains, and valleys.
The weather is warm, crisp, and clear in late March, while it’s shivering cold in the first few weeks. As a result, most trekkers prefer to ride the course at the end of the month. The unobstructed view of Annapurna massif looks enviable during the month.
Of course, Spring is short-lived in March, but it’s still delightful. Its days are usually bright, cheerful, and sunny, while the nights are frigid. It’s still wintry at Annapurna Base Camp early in the month; therefore, trekkers will have to make the preparations in compliance with.
Those traveling in the first couple of days might even encounter light snowfall and a strong breeze. Hence, they will need lots of warm clothes, including insulated jackets and boots, to protect themselves from the cold.
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Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Picturesque view of Annapurna massif, Pisang Peak, Gangapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri
- Close insight into customs, tradition, lifestyle, and culture of Himalayan people
- Discover the unique flora and fauna at Annapurna Conservation Area
- Warm hospitality from local people
- A brief tour of the colorful Gurung villages
- A scenic and peaceful walk through the wild forest
- Crossing the suspension bridges and trekking over the hills
Why trek Annapurna Base Camp in March?
Annapurna Base Camp never fails to impress travelers with its captivating landscapes of mountains and towering rock hills. It continues to dazzle them with its unparalleled natural beauty, which is further elevated by the wonderful weather of Spring. Apart from that, there are multiple other reasons why hikers should sign up for the Annapurna Base Camp trek in March.
Fewer Crowd
Annapurna Base Camp is crowded in the peak spring season. But, since the weather is still fragile in the earliest month, fewer travelers visit the camp in March. The trails are less jammed around the time.
Hence, it’s the perfect moment for trekkers, especially nature enthusiasts, to enjoy a peaceful walk along the trail. By no means will they be disturbed or annoyed by fellow travelers. In addition to that, there’s no pressure to maintain the pace or travel with other members, so you can take all the time you need.
Its classic trails have enough people to accompany you, but it’s still not too noisy. Tekkers can enjoy the mesmeric scenery and even travel and capture the picturesque scenery without being bothered.
Ideal Weather
Nothing matters the most to a traveler of Annapurna Base Camp than fine weather on the trip. Hence, March is the perfect time to visit it. The month has pleasant weather with a serene atmosphere that works well for the day hike.
The weather beams up with the arrival of spring. There’s a ray of sunshine with bright and warm days. With a clear sky and fresh air, the climate is terrific at the camp. Winter holds fast to the region in March. Hence, the weather is cold at the beginning of the month.
But, as time goes on, the temperature starts to rise, and the weather gets warm. Due to the cooler climate and mild temperature, walking the trail in March gets easier. Throughout the day, trekkers will get to enjoy warm sunshine while walking the trail
Accommodation
Finding the accommodation you need is not troublesome in March. Even more, there are better options to find along with discounts and offers. Since it’s the beginning of the spring season, there’s less crowd on the trek.
As a result, you get the best deals for the same or lower price. This really helps the backpackers travel on a budget. Due to the less demand for lodging, you can bargain for the price or even service. Hence, traveling in March can save you a few extra bucks unless and until you don’t want to negotiate.
Majestic views
After the long cold winter, March is the perfect time to celebrate the beauty of Annapurna. It brings clear weather alongside jaw-dropping views that no one can resist. Its temperature is warm, and the weather is stable so it gets easy for trekkers to catch glimpses of mountains and valleys.
Forests turn alive from the start of the month. There are green meadows everywhere, and the trees get back their green leaves, which look great. The timing of the flower bloom depends on the weather. If the weather is warm, you’ll get a majestic backdrop of wildflowers and rhododendrons.
The temperature of Annapurna Base Camp in March
The temperature of Annapurna Base Camp varies with altitude. So, even if in a short course of time, you’ll experience a massive change in weather, especially if you’re trekking the camp amid March.
The temperature at Annapurna Base Camp is below -8 Degree Celsius at the beginning of the month. The weather is dry and cold around this time, the path, but it’s not as freezing as it is in the winter. The temperature slowly tends to warm up from as early as mid-March and stay pleasant till May.
Its days are hot enough for you to pull out light clothes and enjoy the mild weather. Don’t forget to get some warm clothes, though, since the temperature drops below 0 degrees celsius at night and morning. The higher you climb, the colder it gets.
The weather gets warmer by late March, with temperatures rising to 14 Degree Celsius. The atmosphere is still lively and delightful, with beautiful sunshine all day long. It might be slightly foggy in the morning, but overall the weather is great in March.
Trekking route
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (830m / 2,723 ft.), 7-8 hrs
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,071m / 3,514 ft), 2-2.5 hrs – then trek to Ghandruk (1,940m / 6,364 ft), 6 hrs
Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk to Chomrong (2,170m / 7,119 ft), 5-6 hrs
Day 05: Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310m / 7,578 ft), 4-5 hrs
Day 06: Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3,230m / 10,597 ft), 6-7 hrs
Day 07: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,549 ft), 7-8 hrs via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Day 08: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310m / 7,570 ft), 8 hrs
Day 09: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,760m / 5,774 ft), 6 hrs
Day 10: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul then drive to Pokhara
Day 11: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 12: Departure
Trekking route
About 152 miles drive away from Kathmandu, the Annapurna Base Camp trek starts with an easy walk to Ghandruk. You’ll soon find yourself walking through the forest and crossing rivers to arrive at Chhomnrong.
Besides the majestic view of Annapurna massif, your trail proceeds to Bamboo. On the following day, you’ll follow the trail heading to Deurali, which takes around 7 hours. The trail will treat you a magnificent view of towns and valleys.
While walking the Machhapuchre Base Camp, you’ll get a shot of picturesque landscapes and rolling hills. The trail will also reward you with some wonderful views of the Annapurna massif. Upon arriving at the base camp, you’ll get a glimpse of more snow peaks, including Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Manaslu, and Panga Danda.
In March, hikers of Annapurna Base Camp Trek will also capture the view of shimmering glaciers and lakes due to crisp weather. While descending to Bamboo, it makes you trek through the rhododendron and pine forest.
Trekkers will have to pave their way through Jhinu Danda to arrive at Nayapul and take a drive back to Pokhara. They will pass several villages, cross streams, and rivers on this journey. From Pokhara, trekkers will take another 6-hour drive via Prithvi Highway on the way to Kathmandu.
How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March?
Annapurna Base Camp is probably one of the most popular and mild hikes. It’ll take you just above 4,000 meters while trekking somewhere between 4-5 hours each day. The trails are no threat compared to some of the highly challenging walks in the Nepalese mountains. It’s occasional for trekkers of Annapurna Base Camp to suffer from altitude sickness. Trekkers will be facing some difficult walks in harsh weather conditions. But, if the trek is planned wisely and at the right time, it’ll be easily done.
1. Trek distance
The trek distance of Annapurna Base Camp is not something to play with. It really has some serious long trails with steep hills, which are tough to climb. Trekkers will have to walk an average of 5-6 hours every day and cover a distance of 15-20 km.
This is nerve-wracking for any traveler, let alone beginners. Therefore, trekkers will have to [hysically prepare themselves for the trek. They’ll have to work on their fitness regimen for strengthening muscle and stability.
The trail has many rugged hills and steep climbs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. So, trekkers will have to stay fit and healthy. They’ll have to increase their physical stamina to withstand the long paths.
2. Trekking guide
Trek without a professional guide is always demanding and tough. It’s stressful as you have to manage all the things and tackle the rugged trails at the same time. On that matter, it’s best to hire a guide who can lead you all along the way.
Since Annapurna Base Camp is a restricted zone, travelers will need a guide who is well aware of the routes. This will help them combat the challenges and prevent adversity and mishaps.
It’s also nice to have someone who has dual; or multi-language skills so that it won’t be difficult for you to have a conversation. They will help you mix up with the locals and get accustomed to their culture and traditions.
3. Physical exertion
Any walk as long as Annapurna Base Camp is intimidating for non-walkers. They are physically daunting and strenuous, particularly the harsh mountainous terrains. Hiking these trails whilst carrying a heavy backpack can put extreme force on trekkers.
This can cause them serious fatigue and tiredness. Sometimes, it can even leave them with no energy to further walk the trail. To not let something happen, trekkers will have to physically train themselves ahead of the trek.
You’ll have to follow a routine exercise and do a few short hikes to beat the jagged course of Annapurna Base Camp. Focus more on cardiovascular exercise as it improves stamina and builds endurance. It even helps the trekkers to stay in shape. Acclimatization is a must before going to higher elevations so that they don’t suffer from extreme sickness.
4. Dehydration
Being hydrated is something every hiker of Annapurna Base Camp has to get on with before and during the hike. It might seem that a few drinks of water are sufficient to keep you going on the hike. Many trekkers suffer from dehydration in doing so.
Walking the uneven trails of Annapurna Base Camp in the intense heat of March makes them sweat more. So, even if you’re not a thirst for water, drink regularly. It’s important that they drink at least 5 liters of water each day. This will help them avoid dehydration, including headache, dizziness, and fatigue.
Things to be considered while trekking Annapurna Base Camp in March
1. Long travel schedule
The itinerary is quite important in knowing how the trek will turn out to be. A short travel plan is more frantic as there are many places to cover in a little time. Trekkers will be pressed for time, especially with scope for unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions.
This will significantly affect your travel plan. So, it’s better to choose long travel itineraries as they will provide you with more time to manage things. You’ll have all the time you need to visit the main attractions of Annapurna Base Camp.
2. Right gear and equipment
The weather at Annapurna Base Camp in March is inconsistent. It’s cold in the earliest month but warm at the end of March. Thus, trekkers will have to be extremely cautious while getting the essentials for the trek. It’s to be ensured that they have the right equipment; otherwise., they’ll have a hard time climbing the trails.
3. Travel insurance
There’s nothing worse than getting sick or losing your important documents while on a trip. To avoid such misfortunes, trekkers are recommended to have travel insurance. It’ll cover the risks and protect them from financial losses, including emergency medical evacuation, flight cancellation or delays, and other charges.
4. Practice trekking with a backpack
It’s important for trekkers to be used to walking different terrains. This will help them take on the uneven trails of Annapurna Base Camp more comfortably. It’ll build their stamina to go on hiking the steep trails that extend miles. Traveling with a backpack before the actual trek helps trekkers handle the stress and provide them back support.
5. Acclimatization
Beginner or not, trekking anywhere above 3,500 meters can cause altitude sickness. It can affect the health of hikers and even make them suffer from a serious illness. Since trekkers of Annapurna Base Camp have to go above 13,000 ft, they’ll have to acclimatize well. You’ll have to let your body adjust to the climate at a higher elevation. Also, you must take proper rest and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
Accommodation and Food
Annapurna Base Camp is a teahouse trek, so it’s more likely for trekkers to book their room in the lodging. They’re relatively cheaper and easily available anywhere you go. They are incredibly safe and warm to stay.
Teahouses running on the trail of Annapurna Base Camp have all the facilities to make your stay here comfortable and easy. They have quite nice rooms with a single bed, a pillow, and a blanket.
Trekkers will have to use the shared bathrooms as there is no en suite. Since it’s still early spring in March and there are a few visitors, you can even get some discounts and offers on the accommodation.
Apart from that, you’ll also get a beautiful setting framed out of the window for free. You’ll be charged for the food, though. Trekkers might have to spend between US$3 and US$5 for a meal. They mostly serve authentic Nepali dishes, consisting of rice, pulses, veggies, pickles.
You can also find several other Asian cuisines in the tea house, including noodles, dumplings, and Thukpa. Their breakfast is simple yet delicious like toast bread, soup, spaghetti, and more.
Essential items and packing list
Since March is the mix of winter and spring seasons, you’ll have to pack the items carefully. Considerable attention has to be paid while buying the equipment. You have to be a smart backpacker and get some warm and light clothes. Besides that, you’ll need plenty of other stuff. Some of them are right here below.
Clothing
- Fleece or down jacket
- Windproof jacket
- Inner thermal
- Long and short sleeve shirts
- Waterproof pants and trousers
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Liner gloves
Footwear
- Hiking boots
- Synthetic or liner socks
- Trekking shoes
Accessories
- Charger, power bank, and extra batteries
- Sunscreen
- First-aid kit
- Personal toiletries
- Moisturiser
- Duffel bags
FAQs
1. How long does Annapurna Base Camp trek takes in March?
It takes around two weeks to hike the Annapurna Base Camp. But, it can also be done in about a week, but you’ll have to increase your pace. Since the itinerary is short, you won’t be able to discover as many places as others would.
2. Which is the best time to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Spring is the right time to trek Annapurna Base Camp. It has practically the loveliest weather with warm sunny days and cold nights. There is a slight hint of winter in Spring, but the weather is still mildly warm. There’s occasional snowfall in the early Spring but weather heats up between late March and early May.
3. What is the climate like in Annapurna Base Camp?
Spring and Autumn in Annapurna Base Camp are typically mild. The month of April, September, and October is the warmest at the base camp, while March is a transitional period. Its weather is chilly in the initial days, but the temperature rises as days go by.
4. What kind of clothing is required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March?
Spring arrives a little too late in Annapurna Base Camp, so you’ll need winter clothes during the trek in March. They’ll keep you warm even if there’s no sun and protect you against snowstorms.
5. What services are available in the teahouse at Annapurna Base Camp?
Amenities offered by teahouses at Annapurna Base Camp are basic but worthwhile. They make the stay easy and comfortable here. Their facilities are not the standard, but they are still rewarding. You can expect to get a bed, pillow, bedsheet, and a blanket at the dwelling. Anything other than the mentioned like hot water, internet, and electricity to charge batteries.
