Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Weather and Temperature

When you are about to plan your journey to Nepal, it is quite crucial to know the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

The weather in Annapurna Region varies considerably with the seasons. This may influence whether the views and the trail are good or not, safety and your general experience.

Clear views of the mountains, the blooming of rhododendrons, fewer crowds or economical travelling, the time of visit does make a lot of difference.

Here, on the blog, we are going to give a closer look at the weather conditions and the trekking experience throughout the year.

You will get to see the best seasons for Annapurna Base Camp Trek, what the months have to offer and when not to undertake the trek.

If, therefore, you wish to leverage your experience in the Annapurna Base Camp experience, stick with us as we will be giving it all the details.

Seasonal Weather and Temperature of Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

The weather in Annapurna Base Camp Trek varies depending on the season and keeps on altering the trek.

 In the current section, we will discuss the weather and walking conditions during each season in detail.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Spring Season (March-May)

The best time to trek Annapurna base camp is during spring. Weather is during a stable phase; the skies are clear, and the weather is moderate.

Spring in ABC Tek is the time when the rhododendrons turn the forests into colours, and the trails are beautiful. It is the ideal season for all novices and seasoned trekkers.

The temperature in spring in ABC is 16°C to 22°C by day at the low levels. As you move up, particularly around the base camp, temperatures can reach as low as -5°C to as high as 10°C.

The skies are largely sunny, and there exists minimal rain. Morning is very bright, and the evenings become chilly.

The ABC Trekking route is blanketed with wildflowers with rhododendrons, magnolias, and many more flowers. The woods are green and bright.

The mountain scenery is beautiful, more so during early mornings. You will also notice a clear-up of Annapurna, Machhapuchhare and Hiunchuli.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Summer/Monsoon Season (June to August) 

ABC Trek is not so good when the rainy season comes, but it is not impossible. There are green hills with trees, and there are fewer or more trekkers on the road. 

However, rainfall could result in landslides and slippery roads. Flights can be delayed or cancelled because of the weather conditions.

It has a wet season that is characterized by very much rain, mostly in July and August.

At low altitudes, there is a temperature range of 18°C to 25°C. Tracks are muddy, and there are leeches in the woods. It requires trekking shoes and rain gear.

The landscapes are extremely lush and colourful, notwithstanding the rain. Waterfalls boom along the full route.

Since less trekking takes place in the monsoon in ABC Trekking, the trails are calm, and the teahouses are not as crowded.

Summer in Annapurna Base Camp is a great season to visit nature lovers who love wet conditions and greenery.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn Season (September to November) 

Autumn is the best trekking time for Annapurna Base Camp. After the monsoons, there is a clear air, and the skies are deep blue. It is a perfect trekking time to experience the best mountain scenic views. 

It is also beautiful in the fall. During the day, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Annapurna range. It is a sunny environment with no clouds on most occasions; hence, this kind of photography is great. 

It is not too hot, with the daytime temperatures varying from 15°C to 20°C, and the night temperatures can rise from 0°C to 5°C in height.

The paths are dry and well-maintained. During the peak season of ABC Trek, more trekkers can be expected, so it is best to book in advance in teahouses. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Winter Season (December to February)  

During the Winter in Annapurna Base Camp gets snow and other freezing conditions.  

They have the least busy season, and it is unlikely that there could be trekkers on the trail. Winter is great when you prefer spending your time alone and adore snow. 

It snows above 2,500 meters. The day temperature is about 5°C -10°C, and the bath temperature even can be to -10°C and further. 

There are parts that are slippery on the track. An individual will need warm clothing and gear.  

Start early in the morning so that you do not have to freeze up during the evening. One should never forget to carry other layers, sleeping bags with sub-zero ratings and micro spikes when the trails are icy. 

Monitor the Annapurna Base Camp weather forecast because the snowstorms can delay or close the trail. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Each Month  

The climate and walking conditions in the Annapurna base camp keep changing every month of the year.

To get a better idea of the trek as well as plan the trek, we will discuss expectations for each month below. 

Annapurna Base Camp in January 

The coldest month of the ABC trek is in January. The temperature may go as low as freezing, particularly at warm altitudes around the base camp.  

The path is less busy, and trekkers are less compared to other trails, so it is a peaceful experience.  

Trekking may be a harder and unsafe experience in case of snow and/or icy tracks. That region is usually frosty and snowed, hence beautiful but difficult. 

January can be a hard month, provided you are prepared well to face the cold weather and you want to be alone. Otherwise, it should be preferable to experienced trekkers. 

Annapurna Base Camp in February 

February is cold yet becoming warm compared to January. The trail might still be covered in snow, especially above 3,000 meters.  

The days begin to lengthen, and in the lower areas, some early rhododendrons are already in flower. 

Nights are cold, and the weather remains crisp and dry. ABC Trek in February is also not as busy as in January. 

So, if you want silence on the trails and do not mind the cold weather, this month is fine. It is a transition time on its way to spring, so bring warm clothes. 

Annapurna Base Camp in March 

March is the first month of spring and one of the most fantastic months to begin trekking. The weather warms up, and the rhododendron forests grow in colourful blooms along the trail. 

The climate of Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is pretty good as it is mostly clear, and temperatures during the day are not too high to go trekking. The trail is available with minimal or no snow cover, particularly at low altitudes. 

It is a place that is calm yet receiving more trekkers this month. March in Annapurna Base Camp is the appropriate time of the year when one would like to have good weather but avoid crowds in autumn. 

Annapurna Base Camp in April  

April is also among the best months to trek to ABC.  

Days are warm, and the nights are cool and bearable. Wildflowers and Rhododendrons brighten up the forests with some beautiful colours. 

The Annapurna range is well-viewed in a clear sky. The terrain is dry and easy to go.  

The trekkers also flock during April, yet the trails are open such that the traffic passes comfortably. It is ideal for nature lovers and photographers.  

Annapurna Base Camp in May 

May is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek because the weather is warmer, and the days are longer. Most areas along the trail melt completely, and this eases access along the trail.  

The ABC Trekking route is lush and green and still occupies the road with the flowers blooming. 

The pre-monsoon showers may, however, commence at the end of the month in late May. 

In case you are trekking during the first week of May, you will have good weather and clear skies. It is a nice month, even for first-timers and experienced trekkers. 

Annapurna Base Camp in June 

The month of June initiates the monsoon season in Nepal. Rain is frequent and sometimes abundant in the lower country. The pathway looks slippery and muddy; therefore, landslides are likely.  

Other activities, such as the presence of leeches, also increase during this period and maybe a bother to trekkers. 

Although the forests appear green and fresh, there is hardly a chance to see the mountains as they are covered with clouds and fog. Unless you like wet weather and being alone, it is not advised to trek during June. 

Annapurna Base Camp in July  

July lies during the middle of the monsoon season. It is rainy with intense rainfall, which may last hours.  

The paths are muddy, slushy and even hazardous because of landslides and flooding. The view normally is low because the mountains are covered up by clouds. 

The numerous tea houses or even lodges will either be closed or reduced capacity since there are fewer trekkers. 

July is not the best month to trek to ABC unless you are an experienced and preparatory person in the monsoon conditions. 

Annapurna Base Camp in August 

August follows the trend of the monsoons with rains and humid weather. The Annapurna Trek route is quite difficult, and landslide hazards are high. 

There are some adventurous trekkers who love to spend this period enjoying the green environment as well as calm paths. The place is less populated and easier to stay.  

August in Annapurna Base Camp may provide a special trekking experience in case you are not afraid of storms and delays; however, with this month, safety precautions are necessary. 

Annapurna Base Camp in September 

The month of September in the fall marks the end of the monsoons and the commencement of the autumn trekking season. 

It becomes less rainy, and clouds become slowly visible. The pathway dries, and it gets comfortable to walk.  

The landscapes begin to get mountainous, and temperatures get friendlier. It is the start of the high trekking season, so the number of guests is great. 

But it is still not as high as in October. ABC Trek in September is a good month to have good weather and fewer tourists.

Annapurna Base Camp in October

The month of October is the most popular and probably the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. 

Weather conditions are supportive, having clear skies that offer good visibility to the mountain tops. The weather is very cool, not too hot and not too cold.  

Trails are dry, and in low areas, wildflowers are still in bloom. The greatest number of trekkers visit in October, which means that the paths are full of people and the lodges are fully functional. 

October is the best month for trekking to ABC in case you desire excellent weather and magnificent views. 

Annapurna Base Camp in November 

November has perfect weather for ABC Trek. It is characterized by a clear sky and steadiness. It is also in the peak trekking season, but the crowds are a little less than in October. 

The temperature of ABC Trek starts to drop, particularly at night. However, hiking is still pleasant during the daytime.  

The air is quite fresh, and the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains are astounding. 

November is a good month to visit a trekker seeking some good weather in a relatively quieter setting. 

Annapurna Base Camp in December 

The days are shorter, and the zero-degree temperatures come in December in Annapurna Base Camp. Snow can start settling on the upper paths, and some places can become slippery. 

The ABC Trek in winter is not as frequented by trekkers since there are quite some people who do not like the cold weather. 

The days tend to be clear, with good mountain views. Nights, though, are packed with freezing temperatures during night camps. 

ABC Trekking in December is not a bad month, and it can be very cold, depending on when you start, as a lot of snow tends to start at the end of this month, so early in the month is good. 

Best Time to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

The best time to do Annapurna Base Camp trek is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These months give us clear skies, moderate temperatures, and dry trails. 

Spring will give you beautiful flowers of the rhododendrons, as well as new scenery, and autumn is the time to feel the fresh air and the beauty of the mountains.  

These are the optimum times that there is safety and maximum comfort when trekking.  

Best Time to See Annapurna Range  

The most famous month to have the most spectacular Annapurna views is October. The air after monsoon is cloudless, dust and pollutant-free. 

The weather is clear blue skies, and it is the best moment to capture the most stunning photos at Annapurna, Machhapuchhare and other mountains. The other clean scenario can also be obtained in early November but in fewer crowds.  

When is the worst time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?  

The Annapurna base Camp trek’s worst time is during monsoon season in the months of June to August.

During heavy rains, the trails become slippery and muddy, the risk of landslides is much higher, and clouds cover mountains.

Beginners will also have a hard time in winter months from December to February when temperatures are low, and there may be snow on higher trails. 

These will not be the best times to go unless you are experienced and well-equipped. 

What is the Perfect Month to go on ABC Budget Trekking? 

Budget trekkers can prefer late spring (May) and early autumn (September).  

In these months, accommodation and food are at prices that would be cheaper in comparison to the peak seasons of March to April and October to November.  

The ABC Trails are not so much crowded, and the weather remains nice. To save some money and have a good trekking condition, then avoid peak season. 

Peak Season and Off Season in ABC Trekking 

The most popular season months (spring and autumn) are full of trekkers, particularly in such an area as Chhomrong, Bamboo, and even the ABC itself.  

Annapurna Base Camp teahouses and lodges may be fully booked, so booking in advance is advisable or arriving early is recommended. 

The Winter, monsoon and other off-peak trekking seasons will give you a lot more space. 

In certain cases, even better inducements as fewer people trek during that season. But there are many services provided depending on off-peak periods. 

Best Time to Choose Depending on Your Style of Trekking 

The option for choosing the best time to do ABC Trek can depend on the preference of the person. So here are a few tips to choose the ABC Trek best time: 

• Go in Winter (December-February) or monsoon (June-August), and be prepared to feel cold or get snowed over or rained upon.  
• To see it in its best views and comfort, Pick autumn (September-November). 
• To see alive forms of nature and flowers-Spring (March-May) is ideal. 
• May and September are good periods to go trekking when there are groups or want to see nature blooming. 

Tips on Packing During the Various Trekking Seasons 

To get the fullest of the Annapurna Base Camp trek, carry the following while you are leaving for the trek. 

• Wear multiple layers of clothing to keep yourself warm. 
• Bring a warm windbreaker or jacket in the mornings and evenings. 
• Carry sunglasses to avoid harsh sunshine. 
• Carry a light raincoat in an emergency rain. 
• In the case of monsoon, take waterproof clothing and quick-drying shirts. 
• Wear water-resistant boots that are of good grip as well as insect repellent. 
• During winter, carry heavy thermal clothes, warm gloves, a cap, and an insulated down jacket.