Scenic Highlights of March | What trekkers can expect from the early spring season?
- Rhododendrons blooming in Ghorepani turning the whole hill in pretty pink and red.
- Machapuchare’s peak shines with fresh snow near Chomrong.
- Super clear and peacefully imposed view of Annapurna South from Tadapani.
- Early-morning mist fills the Modi Khola Valley near Bamboo.
- Poon Hill sunrise reveals a golden Annapurna range.
- Waterfalls roar with glacial melt above Dovan.
- Fields around Sinuwa turn green as planting begins.
- Langur monkeys leap through trees near Deurali.
- The beautiful view of Mount Annapurna, coated with glistening white snow
Trek Route Overview
The (ABC) Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary will normally take us between 7 to 12 days on average, according to pace and routes taken. The more leisurely pace for completing the trek is 9 to 10 days, allowing you time for acclimatization, and appreciating surroundings.
A 7-day itinerary is faster with fewer stops for adjustment. This itinerary features key villages like Tikhedhunga, Ghorapani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Bamboo,Deurali, and ABC. The ABC is reached by having long trekking days between Bamboo and Deurali.
You can choose a slightly more relaxed pace in a 9 or 10-day itinerary, giving you extra time for exploration and better acclimatization with stops at Sinuwa (2,340m), a rest day at Bamboo (2,310m), and a more leisurely ascent from Deurali to Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) (3,700m) before reaching ABC. With this way of going, you can visit more beautiful places at a relaxed pace.
A 12-day Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary is perfect if you need more flexibility, plus some side trekking. The extra time gives you the chance for hiking to Poon Hill (3,210 m) to see a sunrise from the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as well as a trip to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m) to soak in natural hot springs.
The extra days added to the trek add to your overall trek and will give you more connection with cultural and natural experiences, all while trekking at a steady pace.
Buffer or Accimilazation Days Adjustments and Alternative Routes
In March, Annapurna base camp trek days will not always have stable weather to make your trek a smooth one. Rain showers occur in the low valleys and sudden snowfall is common at the higher altitudes such as Deurali (3,230 m), MBC, and ABC (4,130 m).
Weather disruptions can be completely unexpected, so we suggest you add some extra time for acclimatizing and rest days. It’s especially important if you’re trekking at higher elevations, where altitude sickness is a possibility.
A buffer or acclimatization day in your Annapurna base camp trek itinerary will lessen the effects of altitude and make for a safer trek. Furthermore, since delays on the route are likely from the heavy snow or rain, you need to be flexible with your trip.
If you have extra time to spare, think about side treks for alternative routes such as Poon Hill, which will provide you with impressive sunrise views and wide vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. At the top of Poon Hill (3,210 m), you get a grand view of some of the most popular high peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Machapuchare (6,993 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m).
You can also enjoy some relaxation at a lower altitude by taking the side route at Jhinu Danda to soak in the natural hot springs.
Weather Insights | What’s the March Climate Like in the Annapurna Region?
The best time to hike Annapurna base camp is March when you get to experience the beginning of spring while winter’s magic is still in the air. Heading up from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) brings you a change in weather, landscape, and experience.
During the day, temperatures are mild and pleasant, averagely 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), especially at the start of your trek, when the altitude is low of Nayapul or Tikhedhunga situated between 1,000 and 2,000 meters. Pack yourself a good base layer to get warmth as the nights are cooler. With gentle, rolling trails and great views over green terraced fields, these early sections are great for easing your way into the trek.
You start to see the climate changing as you move upwards through beautiful villages like Ghorepani and Tadapani which sit around 2500 to 3,000 meters. During the daytime, highs can fall from 5°C to 10°C (41 to 50°F), and the crisp mountain air is cooler, particularly in the mornings and evenings.
This is where you can see snow on trails here, becoming yet another source of added charm, as you make your way towards the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. An early morning hike is worth it when the clear skies allow for a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Meanwhile, as you get higher and trek further into places such as Deurali, and afterward, Annapurna Base Campitself, at a height of 4,130 meters, temperatures decrease sharply, and conditions become considerably tougher. Daytime temperatures vary around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), but nights can be much colder, falling as low as -10°C, and even lower.
What to Pack for a March Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
The temperatures of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March can vary widely, with sunny, warm days in the lower valleys and freezing, snow covered trails near the base camp. For clothing, layering is important, so start with a moisture-wicking base layer to stay dry, an insulating layer from fleece or down to stay warm, and a waterproof, windproofouter for rain and wind protection. Lightweight trekking pants are perfect for daytime, and thermal leggings for cold nights.
High altitudes require accessories. Against strong UV rays, bring polarized sunglasses and high SPF sunscreen, as well as warm gloves, a wool hat, and a neck gaiter for chilly mornings. Trekking boots that are sturdy and waterproof with ankle support against snow and mud, is great footwear. Gaiters prevent snow and debris from getting in, and trekking poles are required to provide solid balance.
Staying hydrated is critical. As altitude increases, bottled water becomes pricier, sometimes doubling to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Water purification tablets are nice to have. Electrolyte powders keep you hydrated in the dry mountain air, and purification tablets let you safely drink the streams.
We recommend you pack essentials like a first aid kit with blister pads, antiseptic, and pain relievers. At teahouses, nights are often freezing cold and a sleeping bag liner adds warmth. Hygiene can be taken care of by wet wipes and a quick towel due to showers being limited. Bring yourself travel-size toiletries, hand sanitizer, and any personal medications.
You need to bring a power bank, as options for charging devices aren’t that much. Early starts and dim evenings are times when you also need a headlamp. Last but not least, make sure to pack easy refueling snacks like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit whenever you’re on the go. Being thoughtful about packing makes up for a safe and comfortable, as well as memorable, Annapurna Base Camp trek days.
Accommodation and Tea House In March | Availability and Amenities
March season is the best time to hike Annapurna Base Camp since it is quiet as only a few people prefer to trek because of the winter weather, chilly nights, and occasional snowfall at higher elevations. Considering peak months such as April or October, this early spring period is the perfect time to have a peaceful experience.
A quieter time also means a quieter environment but Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March, has weather changing unexpectedly, particularly in higher elevations such as Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m) and Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Although you can see snow in the higher regions, there are occasional rain showers in the lower areas.
Tea houses are generally available along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March, at stops such as Chhomrong (2,170 m), Sinuwa (2,340 m), and Bamboo (2,310 m), where rooms are readily available without booking ahead. If you’re staying at Deurali (3,230 m) and Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC), the best bet is to arrive by afternoon in order to secure a spot as you have fewer options when it comes to accommodation here.
Tea house amenities are simple, with beds and blankets, hot showers, and Wi-Fi too mainly in lower villages. But it gets harder to find these comforts the further up you are. Tea houses remain cold at night, so a sleeping bag liner is good for staying warm. Because power can be limited, having a power bank packed is a good backup to ensure your devices stay charged. Not to mention Wi-Fi and Charging may also cost some extra dollars.
Wildlife and Flora | March’s Unique Natural Encounters on the ABC Trail
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March is a surprisingly good month to observe a wide variety of flora and fauna due to its early spring season months, and fewer visitors, resulting in sightings of wildlife to be common.
The forests of rhododendrons that blanket areas near Ghorepani and Tadapani in pink, red, and white make the trail famous. Other blooming flora include magnolias and wild orchids, which you can see start to bud in the lower valleys as the weather warms up.
Wildlife is equally amazing too. Look out for the Himalayan monals (Danphe) that are present around forested areas of Chomrong and Tadapani. These are especially eye-catching when their vivid colors catch the clear spring light. Also, you may see barking deer and langur monkeys at lower altitudes, most particularly in the Bamboo and Sinuwa forests.
The higher elevation around Machapuchare Base Camp (called Chomrong) has chances for you to spot blue sheep, and occasionally the elusive snow leopard (usually unseen). Birdwatching enthusiasts can get their eye on griffon vultures, Himalayan vultures, and golden eagles soaring above, mostly around Deurali.
The trails of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March are quieter with fewer disturbances, it is easier to see animals in their natural behavior.
Challenges and Safety Tips of Trekking Annapurna Base Camp in March
Recognizing and Dealing With Altitude Sickness | HACE and HAPE
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March has its own difficulties. The major risk to be concerned about is Altitude Sickness, which is more likely when trekkers move to higher altitudes. The risk increases from Deurali and up to Machapuchare Base Camp. Symptoms include headaches and dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite can be seen at higher altitudes of 3,500 meters.
More serious cases can develop HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) or HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema), often occurring at higher altitudes such as at Machapuchare Base Camp.
Symptoms of HACE include confusion, lack of coordination, and hallucinations. A persistent cough, shortness of breath, and pink frothy sputum are symptoms of HAPE. When such an incident occurs, you must immediately descend and seek medical assistance.
The best solution for AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) is to avoid rapid ascent. You need to acclimatize by having regular rest days in Chhomrong, Deurali, and Machapuchare Base Camp. Good nutrition and hydration are key to maintaining energy and fighting AMS. Pace your travel slowly, so your body has time to adjust to the changes in altitude and temperature, and lessens the chances of health complications.
Weather Challenges And Solutions
The weather of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March is pretty much full of surprises throughout the way. Routes from Chhomrong to Machapuchare Base Camp can be very muddy in the first part of the spring, and there can be snow or ice on higher areas as you go past Deurali. These conditions can result in slippery trails, increasing the chance of slip, fall, and injury.
Waterproof trekking bootswith good traction will help avoid accidents, for more safety on icy surfaces, carry microspikes for the boots.
High up, you will feel the temperatures drop very quickly, especially in the evening. Temperatures at places such as Machachpare Base Camp and ABC can drop to -10°C or lower.
If you don’t want to risk the cold, be sure to pack a sleeping bag liner and wear layered clothing. Extra dry socks and staying active help keep you warm and prevent cold-related problems like hypothermia and frostbite.
The weather of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March can change unexpectedly, causing occasional trail closures or delays at higher altitudes. The trail may be blocked by snowstorms or heavy rains making it unsafe to go along.
You must always be updated with the latest weather forecasts. By creating a flexible itinerary, you will be able to adjust your plans as you see necessary. It’s also important to plan for any unexpected changes in your trek from any sudden weather changes.
Unpredictable weather and paved roads in March are a hassle, so a key to that would be playing it safe and being adaptable.
March Trekking Essentials : Guides, Permits and Fees
Since April 1, 2023, foreign nationals have been banned from solo trekking to Nepal’s mountainous reaches, including the trekking destination, Annapurna Base Camp. The ban was implemented to improve tourists' safety and decrease the risks of trekking in remote and high-altitude landscapes.
Due to the ban, if you wish to hike in the Annapurna as well as other trekking areas, you have to hire a licensed trekking guide and get TIMS (Trekking Information Management System card). Annapurna base camp trek cost includes all the permits, guides, and fees. But if you arrange the trek with our registered trekking company, we will apply for all the necessary permits, such as the TIMS card and any other conservation area permits.
Annapurna base camp trek cost some fees to get the permits. For the TIMS card, if you are a SAARC trekker, it costs NPR 1,000(around USD 7.50), and if non-SAARC, it is NPR 2,000 (about USD 17). This card registers you and ensures safekeeping by tracking your whereabouts.
The CAP (Conservation Area Permits) cost NPR 3,000 (USD 25) for the Annapurna region. The fees of guides vary a lot, but generally, our hired licensed guide costs between NPR 2,000 to 4,000 a day.
Overall, Annapurna base camp trek cost you about NPR 6,000 to 8,000 (USD 45 to 60) as SAARC trekker and NPR 7,000 to 9,000 (USD 55 to 70) as non-SAARC Trekkers. Also, consider the price of our licensed guide which increases depending on the days hired.
The mandatory guide rule ensures that you are well informed and protected throughout the trip, assist in navigating unknown lands, and help in case of emergency. This will also help Nepal manage trekking tourism safer and more sustainable.
Photography Points In Annapurna Base Camp During Spring
If you are a photographer, then March is the best time to hike Annapurna Base Camp, because of the multiple spots to capture unique photos, making it heavenly. One of the best photography points is at Poon Hill, with an amazingly beautiful view of the sunrise Himalayan peaks including Annapurna and Machapuchare. Early light and a soft spring glow make for a magical mountain shooting time.
While Chhomron is also another favorite location for photographers like you, the traditional stone houses and terraced fields are set against the looming Machapuchare and Annapurna South. This location offers you the perfect mix of natural and cultural elements, perfect for just another lovely, pleasant shot.
The peaks under the snow and dense forested areas on the way to Bamboo, offer you peace and calm. This point makes a special photograph for its juxtaposition of nature and serenity.
At Deurali, you’ll begin to feel enclosed by the massive peaks. And the wide, sweeping views here, particularly of the Machapuchare looming so massively, add a dramatic sense of scale, and awe-inducing shots of the mountains around.
At last, Machapuchare Base Camp is the prominent feature of the trek. From here you are surrounded by the entire Annapurna massif in a complete 360-degree view, perfect for photography of one of the most magical mountain ranges in the world.
The highlights of each point presents different angles and feels, of the impressive landscape and intimate surrounding. This makes Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March the ideal time of the year to photograph Annapurna massif’s beauty.
Final Say
Overall, the Annapurna Base Camp trek in March is the most appropriate time to enjoy the whole beauty of the Annapurna region with fewer crowds than other months. The weather, temperature, and side views of early spring are all in your favor during this friendly month. So, come and book your trip with Ragal Nepal to not miss this sightful adventure of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March, Early Spring Ride!
