Trek to Annapurna Base Camp in March

  • Jun 9, 2023
  • Rajesh Thapaliya

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to Trek the foothills of the stunning Annapurna massif. Hundreds of trekkers from all over the world flock to the region to Trek the famous trails.

The diverse landscapes of the Annapurna Region are breathtaking. The Annapurna Sanctuary boasts rich vegetation and abundant wildlife. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March is perfect for trekking as March begins the spring season after long, harsh winters.

The Trekking trails and accommodations get crowded with trekkers. Furthermore, the warm temperatures and soothing climate make for a superb Trekking adventure. The awe-inspiring sunrise with golden rays of sun glistening over the snow-capped mountains is the highlight of the Trek.

Are you wondering when the best time to Trek the region is? Let me assure you that trekking in March is the perfect getaway experience for any adventure lover. The Annapurna Region springs back to life in the spring season.

Table of Contents

So, are you ready to take the Annapurna Base Camp in March? Read below for detailed information regarding the Trek, and book your trip now!

Major Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March

  • Awe-inspiring views of the entire Annapurna range, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhare, Himchhuli, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, among others
  • Panoramic sunrise from the Poon Hill Viewpoint
  • Opportunity to explore the rare and endangered wildlife of the region
  • A beautiful scenario of rhododendron paints the hills pink and red
  • Experience the hot water springs of Jhinu Danda
  • The culture and religious exploration of the Magar and Gurung ethnic community
  • The warm hospitality of the local Nepalese people

Related:

  1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  2. Annapurna Circuit Trek
  3. Annapurna View Trek

For more detailed information about the treks, please get in touch with us.

annapurna base camp trek in march
Annapurna Base Camp

How is the Weather Around Annapurna Region in March?

The spring season starts in March in Nepal. However, the morning and night are pretty chilly. The temperatures at higher elevations can dip below zero degrees until mid-March. The temperatures are mild at lower Trekking trails. Overall, the weather is warm in the Annapurna Region, with less precipitation.

The days are longer, with ample sunlight for your Trekking adventure. It would be best to be careful as the range of temperatures can vary significantly between day and night in March. The mountains are still covered in snow, making them look pristine in the daytime.

The wildflowers, like the rhododendron, bloom in the forested trails turning the hills pink and red. The golden rays of the sun falling on the snow-capped mountains is beautiful. There are fewer clouds, and the skies are clear in March. The temperature around the Annapurna Base Camp is unpredictable.

The temperatures increase gradually during the day but drop below 0 degrees during the mornings and nights. The temperatures range between 26°C to 20°C around the Kathmandu valley and Pokhara and drop to -10 °C in the mountains.

The temperatures around the Annapurna Region during March

Locations Maximum Minimum

Average

Precipitation
Pokhara (1400m)21-21742
Ghorepani (2750m)13.61.57.539
Chhomrong (2340m)10-3742
Doban (2600m)15-41042
Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)8-16439

How Difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March?

The Annapurna Base Camp is moderately challenging, with no technical climbing sections. You can complete this Trek successfully with basic fitness levels and mental stability.

The trail requires 5-8 hours of Trekking a day, and the trail moves above 3000m at all times. There is less amount of oxygen and air pressure in the high mountains. Altitude sickness poses a threat to all trekkers Trekking in the region.

Gentle walks with proper acclimatization and regular hydration are the main mantra of Trekking in the high Himalayan Region. Trekkers need extreme caution as the snow on the mountains will start to melt, making the trails slippery.

The chilly conditions in the morning and the night with proper clothing and gear. Overall, the March trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trek is challenging.

Why should you Trek Annapurna Base Camp In March?

Annapurna base camp trek
Annapurna I (8091m)

Wonderful Mountains scenario

In March, the snow-capped mountains make for a beautiful sight in the Annapurna Region. You can observe a breathtaking sunrise from the snow-capped mountains in March.

The sunrise over the pristine silver mountains is a thing of beauty. The spring season is when the wildflowers bloom in abundance, and the rhododendrons turn the hills pink and red.

Spotting rare wildlife

The wildlife around the region starts to be active in March. There is also an abundance of lush vegetation around the region. Wild animals come out of their long winter sleep. Besides that, the green surroundings make for the picturesque beauty of the region.

Stable weather

The Annapurna Region in March has clear skies and calm weather. Trekking is pleasant and soothing in the Annapurna region, as there is low precipitation in March. You can trek at your own pace without any hassle.

Festive atmosphere

Holi and other festivals like Ghode Jatra and Chaite Dashain get celebrated by Nepalese people in March. The colorful festival of Holi is where people come together to throw colors and water at each other.

The Holi Festivals are mainly celebrated in lower elevations and cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Ghode Jatra is the Festival of Horses, where they get worshipped and perform stunts.

Chaite Dashain is another important festival of the Hindus. The festive atmosphere around the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking trails in March is another factor in a Trek in the Annapurna Region.

The Trekking Route of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Trekking Route of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek passes through the foothills of the spectacular Annapurna Massif. Our journey starts with a drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu and a short drive to Nayapul.

We start our Trek from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill, where we observe the excellent sunrise. We leave for Tadapani the following day and then hike to Chomrong the next morning.

After Trekking for almost eight days, we arrive at the Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp. We observe the atmosphere, click pictures around the Annapurna Base Camp, and descend to Jhinu Danda, where we relax at the famous hot springs. Finally, we trek back to Nayapul and then drive back to Pokhara.

Food and Accommodation in Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March

The Food and Accommodation facilities at the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March are basic. March is the busiest in the region, with lots of trekkers. The lodges and tea houses provide basic lodging and meal facilities. You should book early to be safe from any hassle.

The facilities along the trail are limited to two beds with a pillow and warm blanket. You will have to share a bathroom with fellow trekkers, and facilities like hot water and Wi-Fi are available at lower elevations with added costs.

The facilities decrease as you move to higher altitudes. The accommodations get packed in peak seasons, and you should move in advance to be safe. The meal on the trail is pretty basic. You will get toast and boiled eggs served with either tea or coffee for breakfast. The lunch generally consists of a typical Nepali “Dal Bhat.”

“Dal Bhat” is a perfectly balanced diet that includes rice, cereal, lentils, spinach pickles, and meat! Some high-end lodges also provide Western and continental cuisines at high-end prices. You can also carry protein bars, shakes, and Snickers to get energized during the Trek.

Related:

  1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  2. Annapurna Circuit Trek
  3. Annapurna View Trek

For more detailed information about the treks, please get in touch with us.

Things to consider for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March

Book your trip in advance

You need to book early for the Annapurna Base Camp in March. March is the beginning of the Trekking season, and the trails can get overcrowded. Booking early means getting the best package, transport facilities, meals, and accommodation along the trail.

Always hire a guide and a porter.

You should always hire a guide and porter if necessary. You might lose the trail or get in an accident. A guide is a helping hand along the path and helps you understand the local language and culture.

This way, you can ensure your words do not offend the locals. A porter carries all your luggage and helps you lose the weight on your back. Some guides also work as porters, which reduces the cost significantly.

Start your trek early.

Trekking early is necessary for high Himalayan conditions as it gets dark soon. You must Trek for at least 6-7 hours with some breaks. Starting the Trek gives you ample time to trek at your own pace and helps you reach your destination safely and early.

Acclimatize properly along the trail.

The risk of altitude sickness is high on the trail as you will trek above 4000m at all times. The oxygen levels decrease rapidly, making breathing difficult in the high mountains difficult. Acclimatization and regular water intake will help you cope with altitude sickness.

It would be best to go steady and slow in the Annapurna Region. Along with acclimatization, you can also observe and experience the beautiful landscapes of the Annapurna Region. Besides that, hydrating increases the oxygen levels in your body, which also helps with altitude sickness.

Pack properly

The mornings and nights are pretty chilly. A sufficient amount of gear helps you against cold winds and frigid conditions. Also, dressing in layers helps you to add or remove layers of your clothing.

However, it would be best to carry a down jacket and comfortable sleeping bags, regular trekking clothes, shoes, woolen gloves, woolen hats, and sunscreen, among others.

Get a Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is a must during such high-altitude Treks. Travel insurance covers emergency conditions like flight cancellations, injuries, and helicopter evacuation (around $5000 to $10000), among others. It would be best to get Travel Insurance covering altitudes above 4000m.

Start a Training Routine

Although no technical climbing is required during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you must maintain a training regime. Proper training helps to build your stamina for the Trek.

Your training regime should start at least two weeks before the Trek and include cardiovascular activities like cycling, hiking, swimming, etc. A training diet of high carbohydrates and protein, along with regular water intake, is necessary.

Permits required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

You need to get the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) before Trekking the Annapurna Region,

Permit Cost
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS Card)USD 10
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)USD 30

Essential Things to Pack For Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March

For Trekking in March, you must pack many warm clothes as the mornings and nights are cold. Some of the essential items you need to pack are as follows:

Clothing

  • Trekking pants and jackets
  • Thermals underwear
  • Lightweight Sweaters
  • Short-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Long-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Pair of Gloves
  • Woolen caps/ beanies
  • Insulating jackets
  • fleece-lined jacket
  • Trekking boots
  • Rainproof pants and jackets

First Aid

  • Band-aids
  • Sanitary pads/ Tampons
  • Anti-nausea Medicines
  • Mosquito repellent spray or ointment

Toiletries

  • Shampoo and Soap
  • Sunscreen
  • Toilet Paper
  • Q-tips
  • Hand sanitizer

Accessories

  • Cameras
  • Sunglasses
  • Water Bottle
  • Sleeping bag
  • Chargers
  • Extra Batteries

Important Documents

  • Passport
  • Travel Permits

The Final Say

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March is a spectacular experience. The perfect Trekking conditions and pleasant weather around this time made hundreds of trekkers flock to the region. The wildlife and vegetation spring back to life during this time.

The cultural exploration and the festive environment are other advantages of the trek of the Annapurna Region in March. You will get a clear blue sky and magnificent views of the entire Annapurna range. Overall, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March is a beautiful experience.

Related:

  1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  2. Annapurna Circuit Trek
  3. Annapurna View Trek

Don't hesitate to contact us for more detailed information about the treks.

Rajesh Thapaliya

Rajesh Thapaliya

Namaste! I am Rajesh, a Nepal travel blogger who provides Nepal travel tips to travellers who are planning to visit Nepal and know about Nepal.

I am a tourism service provider in Nepal So far, I have been to the Nepalese Himalayan base camps as a tour leader and collected lots of information about the Nepalese Himalayas. You can find my experiences in my travel blogs, so it may make it a lot easier for you to travel to Nepal.

You may find beautiful photos on Instagram,  Facebook and Twitter. I have worked very hard to be in this stage after high school and dedicated my experiences to the people who would like to know about Nepal and Nepal travel.