Best Time to Trek Annapurna Base Camp

Except for a few months that are humid and muggy, Nepal generally has moderate climatic conditions. The country goes through four major weather patterns throughout the year: Spring (March, April, May), Summer/Monsoon (June, July, August), Autumn (September, October, November), and Winter (December, January, February).

Before embarking on any trek it is paramount to properly research on what weather is to be expected on the trail at what time of the year. Since the trek to Annapurna Base Camp traverses to elevation above 3500 meters through sparsely inhabited settlements along the trail, it is significant that you make your decisions based on the weather conditions in the region on your time of travel.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is best done during Autumn and Spring when the weather is warm and the sky is clear. Spring is marked by the blooming of flowers all across the trekking trails, which makes the Nepalese Himalayan belt lush and colorful. Nepal’s Autumn season starts after the heavy monsoon rains, making the highland’s temperature moderate, and the places in higher altitude warmer.

Annapurna Region is dry and arid and is a rain-shadow region in the Himalayas which receives occasional showers during the monsoon. Owing to this weather pattern, you may opt to trek to Annapurna Base Camp even during the summer. However, the picturesque view of the Annapurna massifs which would otherwise be clearly visible is blocked by the monsoon clouds during the summer. Also, the lower stretches of the trail leading to the base camp receives heavy rainfall which makes the trail mud slippery to walk on.

During the winter owing to heavy snowfall across the region, the trail and roadways leading to the base camp is disrupted most of the time. The trails mostly will be icy and snow-covered which makes your trek even more arduous during the winter.

That being said, you can always opt for Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour which takes you directly from Kathmandu/Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp within a jiffy if you are limited by time.

Annapurna Base Camp in March /April and May  (Spring)

Typically, the spring season in the Himalayas commences in March and concludes in May. During this period, the snow begins to melt, and the weather becomes gentler, making it the perfect time to explore Annapurna Region

In the lower elevations of Annapurna Region, the temperature in spring is usually comfortable, with temperatures averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F). However, at higher elevations, the temperature may still be chilly, particularly at night, so it is crucial to bring appropriate clothing and equipment if you intend to trek to Annapurna Base Camp during spring.

The spring season in the Himalayas is renowned for its dazzling arrays of wildflowers and blooming rhododendrons, which enhance the region’s natural splendour. The trails are generally less crowded during this time than during the high season, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy the Himalayas’ tranquility and serenity.

That being said, it is significant to note that Himalayan belt experiences occasional rainfall and snowfall. It would always be handy if you could plan your travel dates after looking at the weather forecast beforehand.

The end of cold harsh winter and beginning of clement spring in Nepal is marked by one of the most popular festivals “Holi”. Holi is celebrated every year in March and it has been a great focal point of entertainment and solidarity as festival of colors. People gather with friends and family and throw colored powders and water on each other. People sing and dance to traditional music, and enjoy delicious food and sweets. The key locations in Pokhara and Kathmandu are vibrant during Holi festival and you’re lucky if you are planning for Annapurna Base Camp Trek during the same time of the year. Please contact your trekking agency to match the dates and design the itinerary accordingly to plan your trip during holi in Nepal.

Annapurna Base Camp Weather in March

The varying altitudes along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek owes for different weather conditions along the trek in March, including differences in temperature, sunshine, and rainfall. March is generally a dry month, with colder temperatures in the beginning and warmer temperatures towards the end. Nighttime temperatures are lower than daytime temperatures, and high-altitude regions can experience temperatures as low as -16 degrees C. While there may be some chance of snowfall in the early days of March, the views are still spectacular.

Temperature (Max and Min) in Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March

Annapurna Base Camp Weather in April

April is an ideal time for trekking in Annapurna Base Camp due to the favorable weather conditions. The amount of sunshine during this month is relatively low, and the rainfall is also minimal. The clear skies and long days, although not as long as in summers, provide ample opportunities to explore the villages on your trek. While the lower regions may experience more precipitation, the amount decreases as you ascend higher in altitude.

Temperature (Max and Min) in Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April

Annapurna Base Camp Temperature in May

In the Annapurna region, May marks the end of the spring season and the beginning of the monsoon period in Nepal. As a result, there is a significant increase in rainfall in the region after May. Hence, many individuals choose to finish the Annapurna Base Camp Trek during the initial weeks of May. Additionally, May experiences higher temperatures than the other two months of spring along the trekking route.

Temperature (Max and Min) in Annapurna Base Camp Trek in May

Annapurna Base Camp trek in September, October and November (autumn)

The Annapurna region experiences one of the most pleasant and favorable seasons during the autumn, which lasts from September to November. With the monsoon season over, the weather becomes clear and dry, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

During autumn in the Himalayas, there is a pleasant weather characterized by blue skies and mild temperatures. The days are warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F) while the nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping to 0-10°C (32-50°F).

Autumn is an ideal season for trekking in the Himalayas because the trails are dry, and the views of the mountains and valleys are crystal clear. The popular trek to Annapurna Base Camp travels to the bowl shaped valley encircled by gigantic Annapurna massifs on all sides. Autumn brings out the clarity in the weather which reveals picturesque mountain vistas that include: Machhapuchhre, Gandarva Chuli, Flute Peak, Annapurana I, Annapurna Fang, Annapurna South, and Himchuli.

Furthermore, autumn is also an excellent time for wildlife viewing in the Himalayas. The animals are more active during this season, making it easier to spot them. And the best takeaway of Annapurna Base Camp Trek during Autumn is , your trek traverses through the heart of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) which is home to 1226 species of flowers, 105 mammals, 518 species of birds, 40 distinct species of reptiles and 23 species of amphibians.

Nepalese celebrate Dashain and Tihar as their biggest festival all across Nepal including the Annapurna region during autumn (Sept-Nov). If you opt to trek to Annapurna Base Camp during autumn, you’re in for a treat as the ambiance around small villages across the trail is festive and there is celebration vibe all around. You can have firsthand experience of the most favored festivals of Nepalese during your trek.

Annapurna Base Camp Weather in September

The autumn season commences in September which witnesses more rainfall in the initial weeks as the monsoon season ends in August, leaving residual rain. As the season progresses, the amount of sunshine decreases and September is considered the hottest month of autumn. Moreover, the wind speed is the lowest during this month, making it an ideal time for trekkers to trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

Temperature (Max and Min) in Annapurna Base Camp Trek  in September

Annapurna Base Camp Temperature in October

As you ascend to higher altitudes, the likelihood of rain decreases. In October, Annapurna Base Camp receives only 6mm of rainfall and offers 28 dry days with only two days seeing less than 2mm of rainfall. Additionally, there will be no snowfall during this period. The average temperature during the Annapurna Base Camp trek in October is approximately 10 degrees Celsius, providing ideal trekking conditions.

Temperature (Max and Min) in  Annapurna Base Camp Trek  in October

Annapurna Base Camp Temperature in November

In the autumn season, November stands out as the month with the least amount of rainfall. The likelihood of precipitation during this month is very low. Additionally, it is the warmest month of autumn when it comes to the amount of sunshine in the Annapurna area. Nonetheless, towards the conclusion of November, the onset of the winter season may bring about some chilly weather conditions.

Temperature (Max and Min) in Annapurna Base Camp Trek in November