Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March and April

March and April are the two most popular months for visiting Nepal. March and April mark spring season in the country with the weather at its best, Nepal is all set to charm the travelers with its enchanting beauty right from the beginning of this season. Both March and April have a pleasing climate which is highly suitable for trekking and outdoor activities even in the Himalayas of Nepal.  The months of March and April are the best time of the year for trekking to the renowned Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March and April offers a picturesque view of the elegant Annapurna mountain range beneath the clear blue sky. At this time of the year, the trail takes you through lush green forests with blossoming red Rhododendrons and Magnolia.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the classic treks of Nepal that offers a perfect blend of dramatic mountain views, great natural canopies, Himalayan wilderness and warm cultural experience. Moreover, March and April (spring season) together inaugurate the divine festivals of the country.

Here are some of the important things you must know while traveling to the Annapurna Base Camp during March and April.

Highlights Of ABC Trek In March And April

• Enjoy the incredible unobscured views of the white snow-capped Mountain ranges.
• Warm sunny days with only a slight possibility of occasional showers
• Walk through the dry trails along blooming Rhododendron forests
• Explore the lush green terrace fields and forests with beautiful spring flowers blossoming to life
• Enjoy the pleasing vibrant weather of March and April
• Visit to the amazing Annapurna Sanctuary
• Experience the magical sunrise right beneath the gigantic Annapurna massif
• Walk through the villages of valiant Gurkha soldiers
• Celebrate the rich Nepali festivals of Maha Shivaratri, Holi and New Year
• Soak in the splendid natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda

Weather And Temperature In Annapurna Region In March And April

The months of March and April have stable weather with warm temperatures. The monsoon rain is still a couple of weeks away. The days are sunny and warm while the nights are cooler.

The temperature decreases with the gain of elevation. At higher regions, the temperature can be as low as -16 degrees Celsius. The precipitation is relatively low during March and April. The humidity may increase in April but the warmth to visibility ratio is still suitable. You can enjoy unobstructed views of the magnificent Mountain ranges under the clear blue sky.

Temperature and Precipitation in March

Temperature and Precipitation in April

The average day time temperature in the Annapurna Base Camp in April is about 10 degrees Celsius. While the morning and nighttime temperature may fall to 0 degrees Celsius.

Accommodations And Crowds

While in the major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trek, different types of accommodation options are available. You can select the type of accommodation on the basis of your own preference and available budget. A number of luxury hotels to normal standard hotels are present.

During the trek, beautiful teahouses run by the local families are available. The rooms are cozy with attached bathrooms and hot shower facilities up to Chhomrong. As you go higher, only teahouses with basic facilities and shared bathroom can be found.

The alluring weather of March and April attracts hundreds of tourists to the Annapurna Base Camp every year. The costs of lodging as well as meals subsequently increase with elevation. You have to get your reservations done well in advance to secure your accommodation in decent teahouses.

Recommended Trekking Routes

There are many trek trekking routes to the Annapurna Base Camp. The routes can be selected based on the itinerary, starting and ending points, preference, etc. Here are some recommended routes to the Annapurna Base Camp in March and April.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trip Facts and Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's popular treks that takes you to the Annapurna Region's heart. This 11days trek gives you a chance to witness the glistening white Annapurna Massif, Lamjung Himal and Dhaulagiri.

March and April have the ideal weather for encircling the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The entire trek route glows with the blooming spring flowers and freshness in the air during these months.

The trek starts from Lake City, Pokhara. Take a short drive to Kimche which marks the beginning of the delightful Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Trek to the beautiful Chhomrong Village via Ghandruk. Wake up early and enjoy the morning sun of spring and stunning views of the Annapurna Mountain Range and Machhapuchhre.

Hike from Chhomrong to Deurali ascending through Bamboo. Trek to the astounding Annapurna Base Camp via the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Enjoy the clear panoramic views of the glorious peaks of the Annapurna region.

Descend from Bamboo to Jhinu Dada. Soak and relax in the hot spring under the vibrant weather of March and April. Trek to Matque and finally return to Pokhara.

Brief Itinerary

If you want a complete pleasing trekking experience, then Annapurna Base Camp in March and April is definitely the one for you.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Trip Facts and Overview

Situated on the Northern side of Lake City Pokhara, Annapurna Sanctuary Trek offers a perfect blend of stunning natural vistas and religious attainment. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek takes you right to the high pristine glacial basin embraced by some majestic Peaks of Nepal.

During March and April, you can witness the splendid Amphitheater of the snow-capped mountains beneath the clear starry sky and beautiful spring landscape.

The trek starts from the famous tourist hub of Nepal, Pokhara. Drive to Hile and trek to Ulleri.

Trek to Ghorepani and hike to Poonhill. Explore the warm culture and rich biodiversity of the region. Hike from Poonhill to Chhomrong via Tadapani.

Relishing the beauty of hills covered with Red Rhododendrons, ascend to Deurali from Bamboo. Trek to the magnificent Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Enjoy the freshness of lively spring season in the air with great panoramic Mountain views.

Descend to Bamboo and hike to Jhinu Dada. Relax in the untouched hot spring and trek to Matque. Drive back to Pokhara.

Brief Itinerary

If you want to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp in blossoming and alluring surroundings, opt for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek in March and April. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is an easy-moderate graded trek in the Annapurna region. Trekking to ABC is not difficult, so anyone with good health and used to walking regularly can easily complete the trek.

The trekking hours per day depends on the itinerary and the route selected. On average, you have to walk 5 to 6 hours each day.

The trail to the Annapurna Base Camp encompasses numerous ups and downs but does not require any technical climbing. During the months of March and April, the trails are dry and the stone-paved stairs along the trail are not very slippery.

You may experience slight altitude sickness after you reach an elevation of 2500 meters. Annapurna Base Camp itself is the highest point during the trek at an altitude of 4,130 meters. It is beneficial if you keep yourself hydrated and take sufficient time for acclimatization.

What To Pack For ABC Trek In March And April

During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March and April, the days are sunny and you may sweat a lot. It is better if you go for lightweight cotton clothes. Since, the temperature fluctuates in the day and night, pack a mixture of light clothes to winter clothes.

It is essential that you pack only the necessary things and gears for the trek. The weight limit set for the luggage is about 15 kg or 33 pounds. Read the detail packing list for trekking to the Annapurna region in the following article: Packing List For Trekking in Nepal

Getting To Annapurna Base Camp

You can directly fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. A number of flights are scheduled from Kathmandu to Pokhara every day. The clear sky during the months of March and April offers a scenic flight and you can reach Pokhara within half an hour.

On a lower budget, you can also opt for a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It takes about 6 to 7 hours to reach Pokhara by road. From Pokhara, you can take a short drive to the starting point of the trek.

 March and April are the peak months for travelling to the Annapurna Base Camp. You must get your bookings done at the earliest.

Read more about getting to Annapurna Base Camp in the following article: How To Get To Annapurna Base Camp

Events In March And April In Nepal

Festivals are the essence of the rich Nepali culture. Nepalese people celebrate many festivals as per the Lunar Calendar. The festivals that mostly fall in March and April include:

Holi

Holi is a spring festival during which the entire country is set to get all colorful with the smearing colors. Holi marks the remarkable victory of good over evil.  You can get once in a lifetime opportunity to celebrate the joyous festival of colors during the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Maha Shivaratri

Maha Shivaratri is a major festival of Nepalese people. Every year Maha Shivaratri is celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of Magha month as per the Hindu Lunar calendar. There is a profound belief that the Shiva principle is most active during this day. Thousands of pilgrims visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple on this day. While in Kathmandu before or after the trek, you may get to experience the soulful festival of Maha Shivaratri.

Nepalese New Year

Nepal celebrates its New Year on the first day of Nepali month Baisakh which falls in April. While in major cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, you get to see the entire country welcome the New Year with the utmost solemnity and celebrations. You can also celebrate the joyous Nepali New Year with other Nepalese trekkers during the trek.

Travel Tips For ABC Trek In March And April

• March and April are the popular months for trekking to the Annapurna region so plan your trip accordingly to avoid the crowd
• Get your reservations for the flights, accommodations and tour as early as possible
• Keep yourself physically and mentally healthy. Light exercise and yoga before the trek can be helpful
• Walk at your own pace and never hurry to reach the resting point for the day
• Expect occasional showers and temperature fluctuations
• Acquire all the necessary permits and passes in advance
•  Start your day early in the morning and take sufficient rest at regular intervals
• Make sure you get proper sleep every night and allow your body to rest
• Take sufficient time for acclimatization. You can bring the medicines such as Diamox pill with you to prevent altitude sickness
• Dressing up in layers is always beneficial
•  Wear shirts that dry quickly as you may sweat while walking under the sun
• Make sure you do not over pack as it may cause difficulty in walking
• Keep yourself fully hydrated and drink plenty of water at regular intervals
• You must drink at least four liters of water every day
• If you experience any sort of discomfort, let your guide know immediately
• Carry some extra Nepali currency with you which may be useful in case of emergency

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What permits are necessary for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

You basically need two permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek which includes:  [1] Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) which costs NRS. 3000 (For foreign nationals)  [2] Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card that costs NRS. 2000 (for individual trekkers)  Read: How To Get TIMS Card And Trekking Permits In Nepal

2. How can I communicate during the ABC trek?

The mobile network will be available during the lower part of the trek. You can buy a local sim card (NTC/NCELL) for your mobile phone to communicate during the trek.

3. What about the internet facilities during the Everest Base Camp trek?

WIFI hotspots will be available during the trek. Sometimes, there may be low signals due to topographic obstructions.

Summing up, the months of March and April allow you to enjoy the pure untouched beauty of the Annapurna Base Camp. Everything from temperature to the landscape of the region is in your favor during these months. You must definitely plan your next spring break vacation to the exotic Annapurna Base Camp.