Best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Jaw-dropping beauty of the Annapurna Base camp lures thousands of trekkers to this classic route. Known to be Nepal’s one of the most pleasing places to be at for a vacation, the Annapurna region offers varieties of options when it’s about spending a lively vacation. 

It’s accessibility, lush and pristine environment, lakes and mountains signifying the beauty of Mother Nature make Annapurna Base camp one of the best touristic destinations around the globe. 

Not only the beauty of nature but the inner beauty and warm hospitality that the people of the Annapurna region offers is another region that explains why this route is famous among the tourists.

The Annapurna base camp trek is the most preferred trek in the Annapurna region. The Annapurna base camp trek could be defined as a rejoicing journey full of assorted terrain that offers an outstanding view of luxurious hills and beautiful valleys, forests, lakes, and farmlands. 

This trekking route takes you to the Annapurna Base camp whose glory is not hidden amongst anyone. To be able to give a round of applause to the beauty of the Annapurna Massif is definitely going to be a treasured memory for a lifetime.

While boarding the journey to the Annapurna base camp, you get to take a walk through the Annapurna Conservation Area that offers a wonderful panoramic view of the Annapurna ranges. Besides that, the conservation area is rich with diversified species of flora and fauna. Getting pass through the settlements of varieties of ethnic groups, you get to see some insights on the unique culture, customs, and tradition of people residing in those areas as well.

The Annapurna Base camp trek can be commenced at any time of the year. As the difference in season offers different weather conditions, you can choose the time according to your weather preference and trekking priority, this beautiful trek on the laps of Himalayas welcomes you any time of the year but one must be careful about the climatic condition of the trek.

Since Nepal has its climate fluctuate according to four difference season, Annapurna Base camp trek also experiences four different weather conditions:

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Summer (June to August)

The summer season in Nepal is categorized with heavy rainfall. Needless to say, the temperatures are high and highlighted with a humid downpour. Usually, the mountains are enveloped with clouds and the region on the lower ends is muddy and slippery making it uncomfortable for trekking.

During the Monsoon season, the rain is not unending as mostly it rains for a while a then skies are clear and beautiful than before. Since it doesn’t rain every day, you don’t have to worry about spending many days worthlessly. However, there is a high chance to experience leeches and mosquitoes, especially in the lower altitudes.

Since the tracks might get slippery having trekking boots is a must. You should also bring raincoats, a waterproof down jacket, and a few warm clothes. Umbrella is another equipment you should not forget on your summer trip to the Annapurna Base Camp.

Since only a limited number of people draw this journey during the summer, the major plus point of summertime ABC trek would be the opportunity to enjoy trekking and viewing the mountains in isolation. The rain washes away the pollution and thus the air is fresh and dust-free, and you get to view the best green landscape.

There are a few reasons that focus on not choosing ABC summer trek. The paths may be blocked due to landslides. The view might not be as clear as it should be due to prominent clouds. The trails would be muddy and slippery making the trek difficult. To top it all, the interruption caused may extend the trek.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the peak season for trekking in Nepal, including the Annapurna region. Since the climate is temperate and stable, the scenic views of the mountain are crystal-clear which makes the season-best to trek the Annapurna Base Camp. Numbers of hikers move to the region to experience a clean, fresh and bolstered area of the Annapurna region.

The temperature in this season is just right, neither too hot nor too cold. On the lower ends, the weather is generally warm and the weather decreases dramatically as you ascend towards higher reach. Among the autumn season, September is the wettest. There is more lush with the mild weather but sometimes the view may not be clear due to dominant clouds. 

The month of November is proved to be the best in terms of views of the mountains, mild heat atmosphere, clouds, and clearly seeable world-class natural beauty. The night sky is particularly good with billions of stars twinkling right above you. The evening begins to cool quickly but still, the environment is luxuriously beautiful.

Therefore, autumn is definitely the best time as it offers stunning mountain views, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. The only downside is that during peak time, flights and hotels are sometimes fully booked and the rates are the highest. The accommodations are sometimes not fully available and the services remain unsatisfactory. Since trails can be busier it could quite be a problem for people who love trekking in solitary.

On the other hand, the busy trails help people to track routes easily and promote solo trekking as well. You can share your experience with co-travelers and never be alone during the journey. Since autumn is the season of festivals in Nepal, you could explore nature during the trek and also could discover the diversified Nepali culture.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Winter (December to February)

Pointless to say, that winters are cold. But when you go to the higher elevation places of the mountains, the winter gets a lot more chilling. The same is true for the winter at Annapurna Base Camp.

Winter in Annapurna Base Camp falls in the month of December, January, and February. The sleet in these months is quite low and the same is true about the daily temperatures. Thus, it is extremely important for you to pack well for trekking in the winter season in the Annapurna Base Camp. 

Talking about climbing in the Annapurna region, as snow becomes harder with steady wind, it may be possible for climbing this season too. In spite of these wintery facts, you will warm teahouses with hot meals and a place to relax & rest.

Along the trail, you may also see the effervescent buds of Rhododendrons as they bloom towards the end of winter.
 
Trekking ABC in this season is undoubtedly possible, but some trekking routes may be blocked by snow. Anyway, you have to wear layers to be more prepared & fit. Since there will be fewer visitors, you will have the region all by yourself. Plus, the prices are comparatively less too.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Spring (March-May)

The rainfall here is usually low, the temperatures are mild and the views of the mountains are not interrupted due to cloud cover. The weather of the spring season in the Annapurna Base Camp is quite alike to that of the autumn season. Spring is the second most popular trekking time in Nepal. The blossoming wild flora such as Rhododendrons and warmer weather brings more trekkers during this period.

Spring season lies in the month of March, April, and May. The wind speeds in the spring months are also entirely low. Most often the wind speeds in the spring tend to be around 19 km/h. There is some possibility of snow in March but you’re unlikely to observe snowfall in April and May.

In spring, the ecosystem of the Annapurna region becomes totally flourishing. If you love flowers, rhododendrons are in full bloom sweeping ascending altitudes with its lofty color and beauty. Every trail is fully welcomed by them. They simply look awesome.

The bottommost parts of the Annapurna region trek might be hot during spring. So it is always better to put on layered clothing so that you can add or remove clothing according to the temperature. During this season, the flora of the Annapurna region come to life. Many trekkers come to Annapurna Base Camp during the spring season. 

Conclusion

In Nepal, the trekking never stops as people keep digging into these trekking expeditions. As all the above mentioned seasons have their distinct features, each season provides quite different trekking experience. If you are someone who enjoys trekking in colder and quiet climatic conditions, winter trek might be the one for you. But if you are seeking for trekking in peak seasons, you should come during the autumn or spring season.

However, mountains can bring unpredictable weather especially once you get to the high altitudes. You should be always prepared for any type of weather even in peak season. I hope this article will guide you in planning Annapurna Base Camp Trek at the best time. 

Happy Journey!!!!!!