You can choose the time of the year to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek according to your expectations. Among all the seasons- spring and autumn is considered the most favorable time for Annapurna Base Camp trekking. Whereas, summer/monsoon and winter are off-seasons.
Note that even the best trekking seasons have cons, so we highly suggest you read this blog thoroughly for detailed information. Before we share the pros and cons of all seasons, you have to ask yourself a few questions, which we have listed below.
- Do you want to trek when there is less crowd, or are you okay with other trekkers?
- Is photography an essential part of your trip?
- Do you want to be at the Annapurna Base Camp when mountaineers are getting ready to climb Mt. Annapurna summit?
- Are you looking to experience any Nepali festivals?
Answering the above questions will help you understand what you want to experience during the Annapurna Base Camp trek, ultimately leading you to choose the time of year that best meets those expectations.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Different Seasons:
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Spring (March to May):
Spring is the best time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is the season of flowers, so the entire Himalayan foothills are covered in rich vegetation and rhododendron blossoms. The scenery is breathtaking in the spring season.
As the climate begins warming up, snow melts, and life returns. The rivers, streams, and waterfalls are once again gushing with water. The weather stays stable with a moderate climate, neither hot nor cold.
You can expect an average temperature of 2°C to 28°C. With the increase in elevation, the temperature drops. However, you will experience a warm daytime. The mountain views are crystal clear in spring because the sky is mostly clear.
You can see the stunning Himalayan range even from Pokhara. Since it is the top trekking time, hundreds of trekkers attempt the Annapurna Base Camp trek, so the crowd is unavoidable.
Also, most of the lodges are booked in advance by local trekking companies, so solo trekkers may have difficulty finding accommodation.
Pros and cons of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in the spring season:
Pros:
- Beautiful scenery
- Fantastic weather and climate
- Crystal clear views
- Companionship of fellow trekkers
Cons:
- Trail gets crowded
- Issue with finding lodges as most of them are pre-booked
Also Read: How do you Prepare for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Annapurna Base Camp trek in summer/monsoon (June to August):
Summer and monsoon season pass together. It is the most hot and humid time of the year. The weather is very unstable in the Himalayas, so it is considered an off-season for trekking.
Hiking is not easy in summer/monsoon time because of added weather challenges, such as poor trail conditions, frequent rainfall, leeches and other bugs spread across the lower parts of the trail, and landslide risks.
Likewise, the mountain views are not always clear because of cloudy and gloomy days. Even beginner-friendly treks like Annapurna Base Camp can be difficult. However, this doesn't mean you cannot trek to ABC in summer/monsoon.
With extra precaution, the right support, and proper preparations, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is possible in the summer/monsoon season. The trails are not crowded at all during this time of the year, so it is ideal for those looking for tranquility.
Likewise, the vegetation thrives between June and August. If you are into biodiversity, this is the best time to trek. You will need a few additional trekking gear if you are trekking in this season.
Pros and cons of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in the summer/monsoon season:
Pros:
- Rich biodiversity and vegetation
- Gushing waterfalls, rivers, and streams
- Less crowded trail
- No issue in finding lodges to spend nights
- Off-season discounts
Cons:
- Slippery trails
- Very hot and humid climate
- Leeches and bugs on the trails
- Risk of landslide
- Unclear views
- Frequent rainfalls
Annapurna Base Camp trek in autumn (September to November):
After summer/monsoon comes the autumn season. Thanks to all the rainfall, the environment is reinvigorated. The weather gradually starts to stabilize, with clear, bright days and walkable trails. Likewise, the climate begins to cool down as the days pass by.
The mountain views are clear and jaw-dropping. Trekkers from all around the world begin to return to Nepal to do Annapurna Base Camp trekking. The Annapurna Base Camp trek route once again sees a huge number of trekkers, so the trails get crowded but also quite joyful.
Autumn is also the festival season in Nepal. Some of the biggest Nepalese festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath, are celebrated between October and November. In addition, different Jatara festivals start around mid/late August in Kathmandu.
It is a great time to be in the city and in the mountains, as you will get to experience rich Nepali culture and vibrant festivities. Like in spring, early reservations are required along the Annapurna Base Camp trail in the autumn season. The temperature ranges between 27°C and 5°C.
Pros and cons of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in the autumn season:
Pros:
- Finest weather and mild climate
- Clear weather
- Long daylight hours
- Best mountain views
- Biggest Nepalese festivals
Cons:
- Crowded trails
- Most of the lodges are pre-booked
Annapurna Base Camp trek in winter (December to February):
Winter is considered an offseason for trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp because the weather is unpredictable and the climate is very cold. Still, we love winter trekking in the Annapurna region.
The surroundings are magical, with snow-covered trails, trees, and mountains. If you are well-packed, winter trekking is nothing less than a magical adventure like in a fiction book.
The temperature can go below -15°C. The daytime is warmer, but mornings and nights are cold and require a sleeping bag. The trails are empty, so you will have the whole region to yourself.
The views may be obstructed on some gloomy days. Otherwise, you will witness the most mesmerizing panoramas of the mountains and mist-shrouded valleys.
Pros and cons of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in the winter season:
Pros:
- Empty trails
- Magical landscapes
- Offseason discounts
- Warm daytime
Cons:
- Some lodges may be closed
- Snow-covered trails
- Temperature below-freezing point
- Gloomy days
- Unclear views sometimes
Different Itinerary to Annapurna Base Camp:
Our Favorite Trekking Months:
April and October for best views, weather, and climate:
April and October have the best trekking conditions of all the months. You will experience the finest weather, climate, and mountain views. The mountain villages are prettiest in these months, with beautiful flowers, lush greenery, and surrounding peaks.
There is almost no risk of precipitation, and you do not have to overpack. Trekkers have access to all kinds of services. If you do not mind other trekkers on the trail and are looking for top service and trekking experience, then trekking in April and October should be your priority.
Annapurna Base Camp trek in October and April is highly recommended. We also recommend Annapurna Base Camp in November.
Early December and late February for less crowded trails and manageable weather and climate:
Early December and late February are ideal times to trek if you want to skip the crowd of the best season and enjoy somewhat stable weather. As both these periods are on the colder side, you have to be well-packed.
You may experience snowfall during trekking. The mountain views are mostly clear, but there can be some gloomy days. If you are lucky, you may also get off-season discounts because not many trekkers are seen on the route.
Annapurna Base Camp trek in December and late February is recommended to trekkers to avoid busy trails.
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