Everybody loves the joy of walking along the trails of Annapurna Base Camp. Annapurna Base Camp trails are a paradise and a trek you should experience at least once.
The trail takes you through rice fields to the highlands that make the base camp of Annapurna Mountain range- one of the most famous mountain ranges of Nepal.
What can you expect from the trek?
Annapurna Region is claimed to be a delight for every nature lover.
Not only is there a varied terrain throughout the region, but is also home to various wildlife like snow leopards, blue sheep, mountain goat. Also, an abundance of butterflies and insects along with species of the birds like kokla, blood pheasant and more.
Besides the wide range of flora and fauna, you will also experience a wide range of culture as you walk to the Annapurna Base Camp. You will be able to experience cultures from Bramins, Chhetris, Tibetan sherpas, Thakalis, Magars, Tamangs to Gurungs.
The major highlight of the trek is the views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, Mount Hiunchuli, Mount Lamjung Himal, Tukuche peak and Tilicho peak.
Besides the natural amenities, you will also encounter well-defined trekking trails and good quality tea houses. Since Annapurna Base Camp is a popular destination you will receive outstanding services along the way.
These amenities will make your trekking experience a relaxed one. This is another reason people claim Annapurna Base Camp trek as a paradise.
Now you will want to enjoy all this at the best time to make it the best of the experience.
So, you should back your willingness to trek with solid knowledge of when to trek and what you should pack to make the trip the most amazing one.
Let’s tackle the question – So, when is the best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp?
Best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp is situated at an altitude of 4130 meters/ 13549 feet. The weather there is obviously very cold and also experiences adverse weather conditions. All thanks to the altitude.
However, there are times of the year where the weather clears making trails an amazing one to walk on.
Before you start planning and buying tickets to fly out, you should at least be acquainted with the weather patterns experienced in the region.
Here is how the weather on the way to the Annapurna Base Camp changes according to the seasons.
Spring at Annapurna Base Camp
Spring season makes the peak season. It is the second most popular times of the year to take up your trekking expeditions throughout Nepal.
The Spring months – March, April, and May bring clear blue skies. Along with picturesque views of the Himalayan ranges.
The weather on the way to the Annapurna Base Camp is sunny and warm. The temperature stays around 15 to 18-degree Celsius during the day and around 5 to 10-degrees at night.
Annapurna Base Camp, which is over 4000m, usually is freezing cold in the morning and night, the daytimes are warmer with the sun shining through. The higher you go, it obviously gets colder.
The Annapurna Lowlands are flourishing during these months. The trails are filled with Rhododendron flowers on full blossoms. The flowers drape over the hills and make a majestic view sweeping over the ascending altitudes.
Every path on the lower hills is decorated is with flowers. What a great time to be trekking in the foothills of this magnificent beauty, isn’t it?
There are many reasons you should be taking the trek – the unclouded views of the unique ecosystem. The blooming flowers make the upper hills and the trekking paths an outstanding one, and the temperature is just right.
Peak season definitely invites a lot of trekkers making the trail overcrowded. Which is why you will need to pre-book your accommodation at the tea houses or carry a tent along.
You can choose to trek to several other parts of the country during this season. Annapurna Circuit Trek and Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Trekking are some other treks that would be best during this season.
Summer/Monsoon Season at Annapurna Base Camp
Summer is also best known as the monsoon in Nepal. The summer months – June, July, and August – enjoy rain that clears the sky and the pollution. The morning and evenings is cool while the days are on the warmer side.
The temperature is high during these months, especially on the Annapurna lowlands. The average daily temperature for the trek ranges around 18 to 19-degrees during the day and 10 to 12-degrees at night.
But the warmth is welcoming one as you climb higher towards the base camp.
Along with the pleasant temperature, you will also enjoy cool shower throughout these months.
The rainy weather attracts leeches and bugs too. But these bugs aren’t that bad. Yes, these will be seen a lot but with simple anti-bug ointments, you will be able to avoid them as a whole.
But this season is great for trekkers who prefer peaceful treks. You can enjoy walking without the stress of getting there before your fellow trekkers for the best rooms.
Also, peaceful trails itself will let you interact with the nature on a personal scale.
The locals will also be able to give you their undivided attention, which means better services in the tea houses.
Autumn at Annapurna Base Camp
Autumn is the most favored season by all trekkers to trek in Nepal. Annapurna Base Camp is no exception and sees thousands of trekkers make their way to get the majestic views of Annapurna range.
Autumn makes the peak season.
The autumn months – September, October, and November – follow the monsoon months, so the sky is clear and the days sunny. Stepping into the autumn season also means the leaves will accompany your pathway to the Base Camp.
Mid-Octobers is as clear as it can get, there will be little to no clouds in the sky most days.
The trekking path is clean and vibrant.
The temperature around these months is just right being neither too cold nor too hot. The temperature around the lower elevations is warm, hovering around 14 to 15-degree Celsius during the day. As you climb higher, the temperature tends to drop considerably.
Being the most popular season for trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp, trails will be busy with a lot of trekkers like yourself to enjoy the top seat glimpse of the mountains. This means you need to be prepared for the busy seasons with early bookings of hotels, guides, and porters.
Winter at Annapurna Base Camp
Trekking is one of the best adventures you can attempt in the winter in Nepal.
Your body will warm as you walk to your destination and the tea houses will have a warmed up fireplace to sit back after your day on the trail.
The temperature drops throughout the country, so you can expect this trek to be a cold one. On an average, the temperatures during the day can range somewhere between 9 to 12-degree Celsius while the temperature in the evenings can drop to as low as sub-zero.
The Winter months – December, January, and February – are quite peaceful and quiet. So you will enjoy the tea houses, their services and amenities all to yourself.
The trails will also be empty which makes the trek a stress free and peaceful one.
You also do not have to deal with the advance booking hassle as the hotels, guides and porters will all be available and in abundance.
Winter treks are the best if you appreciate winters and the snow. The skies are clear and the chances of a cloudy day are extremely rare.
Note:
The best time to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp is based on your choice. If you like to travel in peace, then the off seasons are your pick. If you, however, want to share the experience with other trekkers the peak seasons are your pick.
Anytime is the best time considered you are physically and mentally ready for what you will face.
You also must be fully aware of the weather conditions and predictions before you choose to walk at a particular time.
You may be interested in other trekking trails in Annapurna region:
Last Say,
Planning for a trek to the great Himalayas always starts with doing your homework before the trek.
You should be well equipped with your knowledge on the trail you plan to walk, in this case, it is Annapurna Base Camp.
Annapurna Base Camp is achievable by people from all walks and you will be able to do it too. So, all you need to do is choose a month that best suits your calendar and body and start planning.
Allow us to assist you in your endeavor, do contact us for further support and queries.
