Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Basically, the best time for Annapurna Base Camp trekking are spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov). These are the peak seasons so you better make sure to book the flight in advance. Autumn is the best time for Annapurna base camp trek when the summer departs and winter is set to in. The weather is incredible and so are landscapes and mountains. Autumn also gives you the privilege of religious exploration of Hindu because the greatest festival Dashain following by Tihar starts during these months.  Another perfect season for Annapurna trekking is during spring. Thriving rhododendron sweeping the hill with its magnificent colors and beauty is breathtaking. The weather in spring is mild and trekking friendly.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking cost

The cost of base camp trek depends on how you choose to trek. If you decide to trek through travel agency, it costs around 600 USD to 800 USD depending upon the package you choose. The package might be luxury package, medium package and budget package. The cost must include permits, Kathmandu to Pokhara two way ticket fares, meals and accommodations. It is important to know that personal nature expenses like shopping, drinks and tips for guides and porters are not included. If you choose to trek alone (DIY), here’s the list of average expense you should make:

• Rs 1,500 (15 USD) to Rs 1,800 (18 USD) for Meals and Accommodation per day. It includes normal accommodations and normal meals.
• 90 USD for flight fare from Kathmandu to Pokhara and 20 USD for bus fare from Pokhara to Kathmandu. (I recommend you flights rather than bus)
• 20 USD per person for trekking Permits
• 15 USD and 10 USD for per guides and porters respectively
• 7 to 10 USD per day for miscellaneous expenses that includes drinks, hot showers etc

Note: You must carry Nepalese currency.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Difficulty and Challenges

Trekking to the base camp of Annapurna is graded as moderately difficult trek that is relatively easy and short regardless of age, size and fitness level of trekkers. Since, the trail takes you to the height of 4,190m; it is quite easy however the frequent coming ups and downs terrain makes trekking challenging. Avid person having normal physical fitness level without any previous trekking experience can make a trail to Annapurna region. There are numbers of hotels and accommodations in every few hours walk where you can rest and comfort yourself for a while. You have to walk for 5 to 6 hours a day so the trek might be tiring but the payback is always incredible. Make a plan and just wander slow and steady. Even if this trek is moderate, it can be challenging for anyone who isn’t medically fit.  A moderate health and perfect plan to walk is needed beforehand to stay away from AMS and other medical issues.