The best months for North Annapurna Base Camp are March to May and September to November. Winter is cold and snowy, and the monsoon from June to August brings landslides, mud and leeches on the approach.
Autumn: September to November
Clear skies, stable weather and good views of the north face make autumn the favourite. October and early November are the most reliable. Nights at the lake campsite fall below freezing, and some operators report minus 5 to minus 10 degrees near the base camp.
Spring: March to May
Warmer days and rhododendron forest on the lower trail. Afternoon cloud builds more often, so go for the peaks in the morning. Snow can linger on the upper trail in March.
Monsoon: June to August
Rain, landslides and leeches make the long jeep approach and the lower forest unpleasant and sometimes unsafe. Views are hidden by cloud. We do not recommend the trek then.
Winter: December to February
Quiet and clear on good days, but very cold, with snow on the upper trail and a frozen lake. Camping is harsh, and weather can close the route. Only experienced winter campers should go.
Choosing an exact week
If you want the best chance of clear views, aim for mid October to early November or mid April to mid May. Keep one spare day in case weather or the road delays you.
A month-by-month snapshot
March is cold with lingering snow. April and May are warm and green but cloud builds. June to August are wet. September begins clear but still carries some monsoon leftovers. October is the sweet spot. November is cold but stable. December to February are freezing, with snow and short days.
Temperature expectations
Daytime temperatures in the lower valley are mild in autumn, and nights are cold. At the campsite, expect frost most mornings in autumn and hard freezes in winter. Pack for temperatures colder than your forecast says, since wind and shade make a difference.
How the weather changes during the day
Mornings are usually clear, with cloud rolling in from late morning in spring. Afternoons can bring wind and a quick drop in temperature at the campsite. Plan the base camp visit for the morning.
Snow, rain and the road
Heavy rain can damage the approach road and cause delays. A fresh snowfall on the upper trail can slow progress. Ask your operator about conditions in the days before you travel.
Reading the forecast
Mountain forecasts are less reliable than city ones. Use them as a guide, but rely on your guide’s judgement on the day. If the team waits a day for clearer weather, it is usually worth it.
Plan it
See permits and rules and what to pack.
