Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the best trekking destinations in Nepal among several base camp treks. The Annapurna Region is considered the most beautiful region in Nepal. There are many places to explore, including stunning mountains, old caves, ancient monasteries, local settlements, and new cultures, traditions, and religions.

However, choosing the best time to go on Annapurna Base Camp Trek is equally important to make your trek experience amazing. The best time to go on any trek is mainly based on the seasons as some seasons have sunny weather and clear blue skies whereas other seasons can bring heavy rainfall, intense cold, and even natural disasters.

There are questions on many trekkers’ minds if it is fine to go to ABC Camp in September. So if you are also one of the trekkers wandering about trekking in September then, you are in the right place. Hence let’s begin.

Weather and Temperature in September

Many experts in trekking believe that the start of September till the end of November is the second best time for trekking in Annapurna Base Camp. 

September marks the beginning of autumn as the monsoon season comes to an end. During the initial days of the month, there may be some light rainfall in the base camp area due to the post-monsoon weather. The skies are clear with a bright blue color, but there’s a likelihood of rainfall in the evenings and afternoons.

The occasional rain can make the weather a bit cooler and the trekking route can get wet but the rainfall is not too relentless to make it slippery and difficult to walk. However, if you are planning to trek ABC during early September then it is highly recommended you carry some rain gear.

The end of September brings the Autumn season into full fold meaning there is a doubtful chance of rainfall. It is the best time to trek Annapurna Base camp due to the clear blue skies, and no humidity which provides a perfect mountainous view, and the trails are also clean and dry.

The temperature is mild which means you won’t feel as hot or as cool in the lower altitude but in the higher altitude it is still cold so you must pack appropriate clothing.

The best time to start the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is between the end of September and the end of October. Whereas, November marks the beginning of pre-winter which eventually leads to the onset of the winter season.

Routes and Trekking Trail for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

When planning for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it is important to have knowledge about the weather and climate. Equally important is to be familiar with the routes and trekking trails. So, here is a clear and detailed overview of the trekking trail, including the different routes available to ensure you have a great journey.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is moderate in difficulty but you still have to go through twists and turns, ups and downs with rocky boulders, and sloppy stones, and must climb several thousand steps if you want to hike to a higher altitude.

If you are planning your trek Annapurna Base Camp in September, then there will be chances of a slight rainfall which can make your trail wet and slippery. 

 The trek starts with the drive from Pokhara to Nayaphul. You will come across some other villages like  Thikedunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani, PoonHill, Chjomrong, and then finally to Annapurna Base Camp.

 Finally, it is important to point out that the trek route during early September will be difficult to walk but during mid of September is the perfect time to trek along the said trails.

Why Should You Trek Towards Annapurna Base Camp in September?

Many trekkers are often advised to trek Annapurna Base Camp in September but some of them are not convinced about it. So let’s get to know why you should trek the ABC in September.

Trekking in September is a good choice because the monsoon season ends by then, which means there is a low possibility of rain. Monsoon season from previous months will clean of atmosphere and make the terrain clean and clear to walk. The occasional rainfall also does not hinder the trek but instead makes the atmosphere chilly and active.

September is also a great time to go on a trek if you want clear views of the mountains and hills. The weather is clear, sunny, and not humid or hazy, making it the perfect time to enjoy the best panoramic views of your trek.

Lastly, the month of September is also perfect for the ABC trek if you want to avoid any natural disasters. Since there is a low chance of rainfall, and snowfall, there is considerably less chance of floods, landslides, and heavy snowstorms which can block paths, and trekking routes and even be a danger to lives and property.

Perks of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September

• The weather is mild and the weather and the climate are more favorable.
• The view of mountains across the region is clear to enjoy or to take photos.
• The trails are less crowded with only local tourists experiencing the trekking route.
• Chances of seeing the rare flora and fauna of the region.
• The trekking routes and trails are easier to walk comparable to the monsoon or weather season.
• September is the entry month for autumn which is the best season to trek any region in Nepal.
• Less chance of natural disasters like floods and landslides.
• Get full services of teahouses in the upper area of the region.

Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek n September

The most expensive time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek is during autumn which runs from September to November. They are also called the peak season as trekkers start to book their trekking for the following months. During the peak season of the trek, the price normally increases. The price of any trek is dependent on the factors listed below:

• Accommodation
• Foods and Drinks
• Extra Meals During the Trek
• Guide and Potter Cost
• Costs of Equipments
• Purchase costs of the essentials or sovereigns
• Costs of the important documents and permits

As mentioned earlier since September falls in the peak season, the price of accommodation, meals, guides, potters, extra meals, sovereigns, and equipment might increase.

However, you must know that there are always discounts and offers especially for the groups which can reduce the price of the total itinerary. The single-people trek is more expensive than the trekking with 4-5 groups of people individually.

The group discounts are not only eligible for food and accommodation but are also for adventurous tasks like boating, bungee jumping, and rafting which you can enjoy during your trek.

Should You Hire Guide and Porter In the Trek

Yes, you should hire a guide and porter in the ABC Trek. If you’re planning to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, it’s essential to know that the government requires foreigners to hire a guide. 

This is a safety measure to prevent accidents, as there have been many deaths in remote areas. Even if you’re trekking alone, you’ll need a guide. You can hire a guide independently or through an agency. While some may find hiring a guide unnecessary, it’s helpful to have one to ensure your safety and minimize the risk of accidents.

We are well aware that hiring guides and porters in a new country is immensely daunting especially if you have the language barrier. At this time of need, you want to take the help of the travel agency of Nepal. Many travel agencies in Nepal have ample experience in the field of any kind of Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Although booking a guide was previously not compulsory, after several accidents and hazards for single trekkers, the government has authorized official rules that at least one guide must be booked.

In the context of Porter, they are mandatory and are a  lot different from guides. Porters help in carrying loads, and bags and even help you book yaks or mules for your transport whereas guides will only advise of your next move and deal with local people and permits if necessary.

Combined Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Combined Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the joint trek of the Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek. In the combined ABC Trek the trek starts from Chame to Muktinath by way of Thorang La Pass and moves forward to reach the Annapurna Base Camp.

The Combined Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes more than 20 days to complete and is considered to be among the most challenging but popular trekking routes in Nepal.

Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficult?

Experts in the trekking industry generally consider Annapurna Base Camp as a moderate-level trekking experience however if you are a beginner then you must endure some difficulties.

One of the difficulties that the trekkers face is the duration. Generally, Annapurna Base Camp Treks take from 10 to 14 days to complete and you have to trek up to 115 to 120km which means you have to walk at least 15km every single day. 

Altitude Sickness is also another factor that creates trek difficulty in the ABC trek for the trekkers. Altitude sickness is more likely to occur as you trek at higher altitudes, especially above 3000m. The Base Camp is situated at a height of over 4000m so you must be cautious about the sickness.

To avoid altitude sickness, it’s best to climb slowly. Remember that adjusting to the altitude and climate reduces the risk of getting sick. Therefore, it is highly recommended to schedule at least one or two acclimatization days where you are not climbing significant altitude to allow your body to adjust.

During acclimatization days, your body gets used to the altitude and climate, and gradually climbing more altitude will prevent sickness. Additionally, you can prevent altitude sickness by keeping your body warm with honey, ginger, and lemon.

However, if you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, it is important to treat them immediately. Leaving them unattended may cause even more dangerous consequences. Therefore, it is always wise to keep medication like Diamox for immediate relief. The permanent medication for altitude sickness is to lower your altitude immediately.

Moreover, it is crucial to stay hydrated by drinking water or hot drinks avoiding alcohol, oily meats, and limiting caffeine consumption. Remembering these tips and taking them seriously will help you to stay healthy and safe during your trips to high altitudes.

FAQs