This trek might be your first attempt at Annapurna Base Camp and you are wondering about the Annapurna Base Camp weather and the best time to do the trek.
It is significant to understand the weather patterns of the regions with different seasons in Annapurna Base Camp while planning your trek to ensure you get the most out of your time spent in the area as the weather plays a major role in deciding the season for your trekking in Nepal.
This will not only will help you to plan and prepare yourself as per the weather conditions, but also assist you to backpack your necessary outfit to cope with any circumstances, and also maximize your chance to catch the glimpse of the mighty Annapurna.
The advent of different seasons, brings along different weather conditions, temperatures, crowds, and experiences at the Annapurna Region and all Nepal while each season has its own pros and cons.
The fall months of Spring and Autumn have the best weather of all year round and are the most popular season to trek in ABC, offering the best views. As a result, the maximum number of trekkers is observed during this season.
Winter (December- February ) provides one of the best weather, but the temperature can get below freezing point in the mornings and evenings, especially in the higher regions of the mountains.
On the other hand during the summer-monsoon the region experiences frequent and heavy downpours making trekking unfavorable during these months.
This article provides an overview of the weather conditions at different seasons in the Annapurna region of Nepal and how they affect and take on Annapurna Base Camp Trek so that you can decide better on when to visit the region.
ABC Weather and Seasons
In General, there are 4 seasons in Nepal: Spring; Summer; Autumn, and Winter. It is always better to be up to date with the weather updates and must be prepared for unforeseen changes in weather.
Yet, we ought to keep in mind that high-mountain weather at Annapurna Base Camp cannot be predicted and could change rapidly at any time.
You might have clear weather in the morning while end up with clouds at the ABC in the afternoon.
Annapurna Base Camp Weather Spring (March-May)
The weather and temperature during the spring in Annapurna Region are most pleasant at this time of year with the generally clear skies and little-to-no-rain and less change of problematic rainfall, offering a much better experience and a much better view of Mt. Annapurna and excellent opportunities to capture the stunning panorama of glorious Himalayas.
Although the temperature may not be as high in the summer, it is still pleasant and warm enough to feel comfortable. As the days are longer, You can walk at your speed while enjoying the silent serenity.
Meanwhile, the temperature in Kathmandu can be between 15 to 20 Degree Celsius and the flights to Pokhara is also smooth and helicopter ride is also more delightful.
Likewise, spring is also the verdurous season of colorful landscapes, and vibrant forests with blossoms of many species of flowers that further add the ambiance of the trail, and many of the routes will be flanked by flowering rhododendrons on full display throughout April.
However, this also means that the region experiences more trekkers embarking on this trek thigh the crowd is comparatively fewer than the season of autumn.
But if you’re in search of the best weather conditions for the Annapurna Trek, that’s a trade-off you may be prepared to make. For spectacular weather and favorable temperatures, trekking in mid-spring is advisable.
Annapurna Base Camp Weather Summer (June-August)
The summer monsoon in Nepal usually arrives in early June and lasts through early September. Temperature is the hottest during this time of year and the weather is more unpredictable.
The rainfall produced during the summer monsoon makes the trail muddy and slippery and further raises the possibility of landslides and avalanches in the lower and higher mountain regions.
During these times, Nepal experiences frequent downpours and cloudy weather, making it a less desirable time for trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp.
Consequently, trekkers usually avoid this season leaving the route is almost empty.
On the bright side, this is the best time to study flora and fauna as the vegetation is alive and green with astounding forest views.
But if you are looking to trek in the summer-monsoon, then waterproof clothes, strong grips, and good quality boots are a must.
As this is the off-season for trekking, most teahouses remain vacant. However, you will have more room availability and can enjoy discounts and more facilities.
Although, because of the rainy season, trekking in the monsoon is less recommended.
Annapurna Base Camp Weather Autumn (September-November)
Autumn initiates the end of the summer monsoon season. Heavy clouds are gone, the weather is once more open and the summit is once more clearly visible!
The weather is the most pleasant and stable during this season and your trekking goes smooth on schedule.
The sky is once again clear after the summer-monsoon rain, offering you the striking Himalayan views of Annapurnas and its surrounding peaks.
Landscapes still lush and verdant and waterfalls on the lower region stirring.
Although it is a mountain region, the temperature is warm enough to get comfortable with.
But of course, the more you go up, the temperature is colder than in the lower regions.
As the days pass, morning and night get colder while days are relatively warmer.
But, we must still bear in mind that the mountain weather is not predictable and we must always be ready with our gears to cope with any unforeseen weather contingencies.
Since it is the most peak season, pre-booking is a must! especially for accommodation reasons. Consider trekking in autumn if you are confused with choosing between the seasons of Annapurna Base Camp.
Moreover, Autumn is also the season of the verdurous Nepali festive of Dashain and Tihar.
Undeniably, Autumn has the best and pleasant trekking weather for trekkers. However, this also means that you should expect a fair amount of traffic.
Annapurna Base Camp in Winter (December-February)
If you are well prepared and ready to handle the freezing weather at Annapurna during the winter months, then you can have a pretty well experience in winter.
Except for the morning mist and occasional snowfalls, the weather during the winter season is calm and dry. The view in winter is crystal clear during the winter season.
You will get to enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna and its surrounding peaks.
Winter begins early in November and lingers till February.
On a clear day, you get the best and clearest view all year round. You get fewer trekking hours than other seasons, as days are a lot shorter.
Furthermore, the mornings and evenings are much colder and the night temperature can lower down to -30 Degrees celsius. Meanwhile, in Kathmandu, the temperature remains moderate.
Trails remain quiet and all the places are covered with thickly layered snow.
Regardless, the mountain weather still is unpredictable and a pleasant sunny day could into a snowstorm in a matter of hours.
Most Tea houses remain vacant during the freezing weather of winters.
You can expect discounts and additional amenities. If you are well geared up and well prepared then the winter weather not difficult as it seems.
Our Advice
Aim to trek in the peak seasons of Autumn (February to May ) and Spring ( September to October) as you are assured stable and mild weather.
If you are trekking for the first time in the mountains or a less-experienced trekker, then trekking during the cold weather of winters is less advisable as the snow-covered routes may get you lost.
We highly recommend pre-booking for the high seasons due to the high possibilities of limited rooms Be familiar with the basics knowledge of AMS (altitude Mountain Sickness) and the information about the region so you may not have to face any inconvenience.
Avoid the months of summer-monsoon (June, July, and August) as the conditions are not favorable and safest as a result of muddy and slippery trails. And make sure you bring the right clothing items and necessary gears that should include down Jackets and warm sleeping bags.
Best of luck with your endeavor!
Do you have any queries about a trip to Nepal?
Glorious Himalaya Team is always ready to help you with your life-time experience in the Annapurna Himalayas and every other holiday in Nepal. Feel free and let us know if you have any queries.
