Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the best trekking destinations in Nepal. It is arguably among the most commercialized treks, including the Everest Base Camp Trek. But today, we will talk about the advantages of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March. March is the first month of Spring, which is naturally the best season for the high-altitude trek.
Many trekkers want to experience the Annapurna Base Camp Trek at least once. There are many attractions of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, like Poon Hill, Ghorepani, Bamboo, Tikedhunga, Jhinu Danda, Muktinath, and others. The ABC trek might be easy for some trekkers, but there might be some challenges for beginners. However, if you decide to trek in May, you might decrease the obstacles to some extent and increase the trek’s fun even more.
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Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March Highlights
- Stroll through the villages of Magars and Gurungs through Ghandruk and Poon Hill.
- Visit Ghorepani Poon Hill to see the stunning panoramic views of the sunrise and sunset.
- Trek to Annapurna Sanctuary and get to see some of the rare and endangered floras and faunas.
- Stunning views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, and Hiunchuli.
- See the mountain views from the first Machhapuchhre Base Camp and then from the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
- Get to taste some of the best local delicacies, such as Nepali Dal Bhat, Dhindo, Ghundruk, Saag, and others.
Weather and Temperature for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March
One of the significant reasons why March is ideal for the ABC trek is the perfect weather and temperature conditions. March symbolizes the commencement of the Spring season and also the end of the winter season. The temperature starts decreasing considerably, especially at midday. However, in the higher altitude, the temperature is still slightly lower in the morning and at night.
The weather is nice for trekking during the day, but mornings and nights can be chilly. You will notice changes in the weather from the first week of March to the second. By mid-March, the days get warmer. Be ready for different temperatures throughout the day. In the morning and at night, temperatures may drop below 0 degrees, but they gradually rise during the day.
Another thing to consider when predicting the region’s weather is the altitude you are currently in. The weather primarily depends on the altitude at which you are presently trekking. For example, the temperature at the lower altitude is generally higher than that of the higher altitude. In the context of Annapurna Base Camp, the temperature can be around 20 degrees at Pokhara, but at the same time, it is at -6 degrees Celsius in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Look at temperature change based on the altitude during Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
| Place | Average Daytime Temperature (°C) | Average Nighttime Temperature (°C) | Change in Temperature (°C) |
| Pokhara | 20 | 5 | -15 |
| Ghorepani | 15 | 0 | -20 |
| Tadapani | 10 | -5 | -20 |
| Chomrong | 8 | -10 | -20 |
| Dovan | 6 | -12 | -20 |
| Deurali | 5 | -15 | -21 |
| Machhapuchhre Base Camp | 4 | -18 | -22 |
| Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) | 2 | -20 | -20 |
Reason for Trekking Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is quite a fun trek, but if you combine it with an ideal trekking month like March, then the fun doubles. There are several reasons to trek in March, so let’s get into them.
Festivals and Joyful atmosphere
March is full of festivals for the Nepalese people, including Holi, Ghode Jatra, and Chaite Dashain. Holi, known as the festival of colors, is one of the most exciting festivals. During this time, people have fun with colors and water, creating a joyful atmosphere for foreign visitors. In addition to the festivals, the vibrant Gurung villages and the hospitality of the local people make trekking in the area a wonderful experience. During your ABC trek in March, you can experience some fantastic festivals and even participate in some of them, making your trek even more remarkable.
Clear Skies
Hazy and Foggy views of skies or mountains will ruin the trek experience. Hence, it is essential to time the trek perfectly so that during your Annapurna Base Camp trek experience, you will get magnificent clear skies and stunning views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, etc. Moreover, combining the clear views with the blooming trails of flowers will make the experience even more pristine.
Flowering Trails
Another reason trekkers prefer trekking at the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is because they can experience majestic flowers along the trail. March falls in the last month of Spring, which is the trekking season, and before Summer/Monsoon season starts. Hence, the blossoms of flowers and jungles are at their all-time peak. So, if the trekkers want to enjoy the beautiful flowering trails, lush jungles, and beautiful decorations of the villages, they should trek the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March.
Ideal Weather and Temperature
March is the perfect time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek if the trekkers seek ideal weather and a comforting temperature. The weather is clear in March, with blooming flowers and less rainfall. The temperature is also suitable from 10 to 20 degrees during the day; at night, it falls to 7 degrees to 4 degrees. Sometimes, the region might get rainfall at night, and the temperature might decrease below freezing.
Fewer Crowds
Another reason for trekking the Annapurna region in March is to enjoy the Spring season with fewer crowds. In early March, the trails are quiet after Winter ends and before Spring begins. By the last week of March, the paths start to get busy. If you want to escape the noise of city life, this is a great time to enjoy your hike in a peaceful setting, fully experiencing the beauty of nature. If you want to avoid a highly packed trek to Annapurna Base Camp but still enjoy the trek from Kathmandu to ABC, March is the month to choose.
Opportunity for Cultural Immersion
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March is the opportunity to meet new people and get immersed in their culture. During your trek, if you want to time the trek according to specific festivals like Dashain, Tihar, etc. During the ABC trek, you will meet the people who follow local ethnicities like Gurungs, Magars, etc, who have been preserving and living their lifestyles for a long time.
Diverse Terrains
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is also called the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek because it takes place in the Annapurna Conservation Area. This trek lets you experience the rich wildlife of the Himalayas, including many types of birds, wild animals, and flowering plants. You will hike through different terrains, such as lush rhododendron jungles, glacial moraines, rocky peaks, and snowy mountains.
Encounter Rare Wildlife
In the winter season, the animals of the region go for long sleep or hibernation. After the end of winter in March, they start becoming active and hunting again for food. The rare and endangered species of animals can also be explored in the Annapurna Sanctuary. The weather conditions in March are ideal for the growing and thriving vegetation and wildlife.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty in March
Annapurna Base Camp Trek’s difficulty ranges from moderate to easy for experienced trekkers, whereas some beginners might find it challenging. However, beginners with some physical endurance and stamina can efficiently complete the ABC trek. This trek has no technical climbing but has steep and rugged trails. You will walk for about 5 to 6 hours daily, so be ready. The weather in March is usually straightforward, which is suitable for trekkers.
The highest point you will reach is 4130m at the Annapurna Base Camp. The trek starts at a lower altitude of 1010m, giving you enough time to adjust to the conditions. One of the significant fears or difficulties of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is altitude sickness. Over 3000m, the chance of altitude sickness is relatively high. When trekkers suffer from altitude sickness, they are likely to have symptoms like fever, headache, whooping cough, joint and bone aching, and shortness of breath.
To prevent altitude sickness, you must know how to acclimatize and keep yourself hydrated all the time properly. Trekkers might face other significant difficulties besides altitude sickness, such as long distances and durations. The ABC trek is one of the long-duration treks, lasting from 13 to 16 days, and every day, you have to trek for six to seven hours.
Preparation for March’s Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Preparing for the ABC Trek in March requires moderate effort. As a beginner, you don’t need to spend months getting ready. To stay fit, focus on critical exercises. Since you will walk a lot during the trek, build your leg and muscle strength.
Cardiovascular exercises like walking, running, and swimming will boost your stamina. It’s also essential to prepare mentally. Try not to stress or worry about what could happen, and stay calm. You can finish the ABC Trek comfortably if you are physically and mentally prepared.
Packing List for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March
March is ideal for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek as it provides suitable weather and temperature, and blocked trails or natural disasters are less likely. However, it doesn’t mean you can afford to leave important things behind. Generally, trekkers think packing heavy is the way to go, which is wrong as you must balance packing light and not leave the necessary items.
Clothing Items
- Woolen hat / Sun hat and Buff
- Two pairs of thermal layers (top and bottom)
- Down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Lightweight fleece jacket
- T-shirts and walking trousers
- Light Shoes / Sneaker / Flip-flops
- Hand gloves
- Hiking Boot
- Woolen hat / Sun hat and Buff
- 3-4 pair of thick socks
- Mitten
Essential Items
- Daypack
- Charger and extra batteries
- Towel and toiletries
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm
- Good quality polarized sunglass
- Sleeping bag
- Power bank for your electrical devices
- Walking Poles
- Duffel bag
- Two water bottles of 1L each
Medicine or First Aids
- Water purification tablets
- Rehydration salts
- Diamox tablets
- Anti-nauseant medication
- Mosquito and insect repellent
Conclusion
If you plan to go on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March, you have made the right decision. The month is the beginning of the Spring, providing the most ideal trekking conditions. The weather, temperature, and terrains are easy to accent without difficulty, and navigation is more straightforward. Furthermore, the region has become safe due to crowds worldwide.
So, if you are still debating whether you should be trekking ABC in March, we hope our blog has helped you decide. Ensure you prepare for the trek and pack all the necessary items despite keeping it light.
FAQs
Can you trek ABC solo during March?
You can trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) solo in March. This month is a good time because spring has started. The weather is usually lovely, and moving from place to place is easier since it is less likely to rain or snow. However, it’s best to have some trekking experience and to be well-prepared.
How challenging is the Annapurna Base Camp trek in March?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is among the most challenging treks in Nepal, especially for beginners; however, if you have some previous experience, you might not find it hard to climb. But, if you decide to trek in March, the conditions make hiking less challenging. However, the region’s views from the lower elevation of Ghorepani to the top of the base camp are majestic.
What is the oxygen level at Annapurna Base Camp in March?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is at a high altitude, with 30% less oxygen than sea level. During our trip, you must walk for 7 days to reach Annapurna Base Camp, a higher elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level.
What should I wear to Annapurna Base Camp in March?
During March, the weather of the ABC trek is sunny, and the temperature is mild so that you can carry ordinary hiking jackets, shorts, pants, and shoes. For the evening, prepare for a cold climate and pack fleece jackets or windproof and waterproof shells to keep yourself warm throughout the night.
What is the worst month for Everest Base Camp Trek?
The worst month for Everest Base Camp Trek is July or August. During this month, the rainy season is at its heaviest. However, January and February can also be worse for someone who doesn’t like cold climates. The extra chance of natural disasters like floods, landslides, and avalanches is the reason these months are worst for trekking.
