Each season has something unique to offer for the trekkers. It is up to you which season you would choose for trekking. Here in this article, we are writing a complete guide on Annapurna Base Camp Trek Weather.
The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered to be from March to May and September to December. The scenery of the Annapurna region will be clear.
It’s lovely to see Annapurna Mountain covered with a snow blanket and most importantly, the fantastic view of sunrise from the hill.
You might not always have an opportunity to have a clear view of the majestic Himalayas and the beautiful landscape.
The weather pattern of Annapurna Base Camp plays a vital role in the enjoyment of the trekkers.
The alpine vegetation and flora and fauna are distinct in different seasons. The weather and temperature vary with the peaking altitude. You can see different species of birds at different elevations.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek during winter and autumn is quite not productive. The trekking trails will be steep and foggy. Bird watching might not be conveniently achievable.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek during spring and summer will be enriching. During this time, the snow is thick in the Himalayas.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Weather in Four Seasons
1. Spring
March, April, and May months are the months of spring. Trekkers have considered spring as the best time for Annapurna Base Camp. During spring, the weather is clear and pleasant.
It is the time when the flower starts to bloom, the smell of wet soil teases the air, the hibernating creatures come out for sunbathing, and the melody of birds chirping blends in the ear.
The petrichor morning will release all your stress and rejuvenate your energy.
Various distinct bird species such as Koklass Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Crested Serpent Eagle, Great Barbet, etc. are visible at different altitudes.
Spring is the time when rhododendrons bloom so you would get to walk through a dense rhododendron forest.
The incredible feature of Annapurna Base Camp during spring is the view of the mesmerizing sunrise in the clear blue sky.
As the weather steadily warms, the temperature reaches around 14-25 degrees during spring. It would reduce the lump of clothes you would probably be carrying if it was winter. Behold the massive waterfalls, hot springs, rivers, and beautiful gorges.
2. Autumn
September, October, and November are the months of Autumn. Annapurna Base Camp during Autumn is pleasant and vitalizing. The Autumn season is quite a favorite season among trekkers for Annapurna Base Camp.
It is the time right after the season of summer and before the winter. The weather that was dry will be moist in autumn. The temperature will be in equilibrium with our body temperature.
So it is neither hot nor cold but the temperature drops with increasing altitude. The temperature will be around 15-24 degrees during autumn.
Autumn will favor our mountain view as the precipitation will be lower, and the sky will be clear.
We can possibly see the panoramic view of mountains like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna range, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Nilgiri, Manaslu, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, and so on.
Due to the rainfall, the forest will be dense, the village will be green, and various flowers will bloom so overall you will get a picturesque view that will be perfect for you to capture on your camera.
Take delights of the large waterfalls and of course the beautiful Tilicho Lake, a glacial lake at its best form in Annapurna Base Camp during autumn.
3. Winter
December, January, and February are the months of winter. Trekkers usually don’t consider winter as the best time for Annapurna Base Camp. Winter means lots of snowfall and a high risk of avalanches.
In winter, the Hilly region is obviously going to be freezing, but you can take care of it by carrying lots of warm clothes.
The temperature is likely to be around 7-12 degrees in the daytime, and as the altitude increases, the temperature may drop to negative.
Withstanding chilly nights will not be much of a problem once you see the astonishing dayview. The landscape will be covered with a thick snow blanket accompanied by snow-capped mountains.
The trekking trails will be covered in snow so you’ll be passing through snow paths during winter.
The view of small snow-capped temples, huge stones, colorful praying flags, huge trees, and ancient villages will be spectacular in the winter.
The hot and warm delicacies are also major attractions in the hotels and guesthouses in Annapurna Base Camp during winter.
Trekkers enjoy the energizing and warming meals that are prepared traditionally. You can observe the typical lifestyle of people there in winter.
The clothes, kitchenware, and occupations of people living in the Annapurna region are quite different and unique.
4. Summer
June, July, and August are the months of summer. Trekkers don’t usually choose summer as the best time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. During summer, the weather is dry, and not much snow can be seen in the mountains.
Global warming has a more significant impact nowadays. Sadly, mountains and glaciers are losing snow at an alarming rate.
It will be challenging to walk on a scorching hot day. The trekking trails will be dry. Frequent rainfall can be observed during summer. It can be relaxing at times.
It will neither be hot nor cold, so the beauty of the Annapurna region can be captured very well during summer.
Since it is summer, you won’t have to carry lots of heavy clothes like in winter. The amount of clothes reduces compared to winter, making it easy for you to carry your bag and walk long routes.
Tips for Dealing with Weather on ABC Trek
Here are some tips for dealing with the weather on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an amazing experience.
But it’s important to be prepared for all kinds of weather. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a great time on the trek.
- Before Heading Out: Find out what the weather will be like before heading out. It will give you some insight into what you can expect.
- A layer of Clothes: Bring layers of clothing. Whenever it becomes too warm, you can take layers off. When it gets cold, you’ll appreciate having them.
- Rain Jacket: Make sure you have a rain jacket. A rain jacket is always a good idea even if the forecast doesn’t call for rain. Mountain weather is unpredictable and changes quickly.
- Preparing for Cold Nights: You should be prepared for cold nights. You will need a warm sleeping bag at night when the temperature drops sharply.
- Get Sunscreen: Make sure you have sunscreen on hand. The sun can be fierce even on a cloudy day.
- Drink Water: Make sure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration can occur at high altitudes, so you should keep hydrated.
- Break & Rest: Pay attention to your body. If you’re feeling tired, don’t push yourself. Take a break and rest.
What is the best season to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek is from mid-September to early December, and from late February to early April.
What are the average temperatures in Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The average temperatures in Annapurna Base Camp Trek are between -10°C and 20°C degrees Celsius.
What is the average rainfall in Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The average rainfall in Annapurna Base Camp Trek is between 400-500 mm.
What are the average wind speeds in Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
According to meteoblue, the average wind speeds in Annapurna Base Camp Trek are between 12-38 km/h.
Is there a risk of avalanches in Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
There is a low risk of avalanches in Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Even during the avalanche season, the trekking community opens another route to avoid it. Also, be physically and mentally prepared if you are trekking in the off-season.
There is a moderate risk of landslides and flash floods in Annapurna Base Camp Trek. So be careful if you are trekking alone or ask your guide about weather-related risks before visiting the ABC.
- Why is Annapurna so Deadly Mountain?
- How to Trek from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp?
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary – 10 Days
Takeaway
From my experience, I would recommend trekking to ABC during the spring or summer season.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek weather is more predictable during these months and you are more likely to have clear skies.
The temperatures are also more moderate, making the trek more comfortable.