Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Explore Davis Falls, Phewa Lake, Mountain Museum, and World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara
- Sublime sunrise view over the mountain range seen from Poon Hill
- Walk through the blooming rhododendron and oak forests
- Cultural richness and hospitability of the Gurung villages
- 360-degree panorama at the Annapurna Base Camp
- Marvelous views of Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare and Himchuli
- Relish the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda after the trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara - 6 to 7 hours
Day 2: Drive to Ulleri (2050m) and Trek to Ghorepani (2874m) - 4 hour drive and 4 hour trek
Day 3: Hike up to Poon Hill (3210m) for a sunrise view and Trek to Tadapani (2610m) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 4: Trek to Sinuwa (2340m) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 5: Trek to Deurali (3230m) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 6: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 7: Trek down to Bamboo (2345m) - 6 to 7 hours
Day 8: Trek to Jhinu Danda (1780m) and Enjoy Natural Hot Spring - 5 to 6 hours
Day 9: Trek down to Siwai and Drive to Pokhara - 5 to 6 hours
Why Trek Annapurna Base Camp in March?
If you are wondering whether it is worth doing the ABC Trek in March, here are some of the reasons why it is a phenomenal idea.
Marvelous Weather and Atmosphere
The weather around the Annapurna region in March is ideal for trekking with a mild climate and clear skies. The chances of rainfall are also very minimal.
March has long and warm days which allows the trekkers to enjoy their walk. After relishing a bright and sunny day, you can also feel the cool breeze at night time.
Captivating Mountain Views and Scenery
The Annapurna region flares in grandeur with snow-capped mountains, pristine landscape and blooming rhododendron forests in March.
The eye-catching views of Mt. Fishtail, Annapurna, Gangapurna, Himchuli, Dhaulagiri and Lamjung Himal seen throughout the journey make it a wonderful choice.
Fewer Crowd and Peaceful Trail
Following the transition from Winter to Spring, the routes are comparatively peaceful during the early March. The trail starts to get slightly crowded during the last week of March.
If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, this is the perfect time to relish your trek in a tranquil environment fully immersing in the beauty of nature.
Exploration of Biodiversity
As the Spring season embarks, the wildlife of the Annapurna Conservation Area comes out of their deep sleep. There is a great opportunity to spot rare flora and fauna during the trek.
The active wildlife and lush vegetation take the trekking experience to a whole different level. You will be walking through the radiant forests hearing the pleasant chirping of the birds.
Festive Atmosphere and Cultural Aspects
March is the month of various festivals celebrated by the Nepalese people such as Holi, Ghode Jatra and Chaite Dashain.
Also known as the festival of colors, Holi is one of the most exciting ones where people have fun with color and water. It would be a sublime experience for the foreign visitors.
Apart from that, the vibrant Gurung villages and the hospitability of the local people are other wonderful aspects of the trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Weather in March
The weather around the Annapurna Base Camp trail is mostly warm in the lower elevation. However, the temperatures can go below 0 degrees at the higher elevations. The days are delightful for trekking, whereas the morning and night can still be chilly.
You’ll begin to notice the change in weather from the first week in March to the second one. And by the time it reaches mid-March, the weather is even more fantastic with the warmer days.
You have to remain prepared for the variation in weather and temperature from morning to day to night time. Although the temperature might go below 0 degrees in the morning and night, it increases gradually in the daytime.
Furthermore, the weather in the mountains is also dependent on the altitude. The more altitude you gain, the colder it is expected to be. The temperatures can range from 20-25 degrees in the lower elevations to -6 degrees Celsius at high altitudes.
As the rays of the sun bask delightfully over the mountains, the temperature begins to rise. The mild temperature in the daytime provides a remarkable walking experience throughout the trails.
Since the Spring season will have just started, some of the aftereffects of the Winter season remain. As the snow remains intact in the mountains, it makes for a wonderful viewing of the snow-capped mountains in all glory.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Accommodation
Teahouses and lodges are the most common accommodation along the trails of the Annapurna Base Camp. Most of them are of similar quality and well-equipped to accommodate the trekkers.
Although the services are basic, the rooms are warm and comfortable. The rooms include a bed, blanket, pillow, towel and other basic requirements. It is advised to carry your sleeping bag that keeps you extra warm during the cold weather.
Most of the rooms come on a sharing basis (2 beds per room). Even if you are willing to spend extra money, it is very difficult to get a private room during the busy season. Some lodges provide the facility to upgrade, but there are no guarantees.
All the teahouses throughout the trail have electricity which you can use to charge your gadgets and power bank by paying a nominal fee. Moreover, the teahouses also provide Wi-Fi services at a certain charge. Since the mobile reception (NTC network) is good throughout the route, you can also use the data services wherever accessible.
Actually, there are limited teahouses en route to the ABC. Intending to promote eco-tourism and protect the biodiversity of the region, the Annapurna Conservation Area works hand in hand with the Government of Nepal. As such, the locals are not allowed to construct new lodges in this protected area.
Food During Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Most of the teahouses offer almost similar kinds of menus containing varieties of dishes. It is recommended to prioritize the food that gives you enough strength for 6-7 hours of walking.
It all begins with a hygienic breakfast in the morning watching the sun rise over the mountains. The breakfast usually consists of tea/coffee, bread, chapatti, pancakes, eggs, porridge and soups.
Lunch is viewed as the main course of the day, providing you stamina to walk through the trail. Most people prefer traditional Nepalese meal consisting of rice, lentils, pulses, vegetables and lentils. The saying “Dal-Bhat Power 24 Hour” is extremely popular among the trekkers.
Apart from that, there are also the options of noodles, spaghetti, pasta, dumplings, and more. You can relish either of these foods at the dinner in teahouses after a tiring day of the trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty in March
The difficulty level of ABC Trek is moderately challenging. Any aspiring trekker in good health condition with a basic level of fitness can easily complete this trek.
Although there are no technical climbing sections, the major challenges lie in steep and rugged trails. The usual walking hours range from 5-6 hours a day, so be prepared for that!!
Since the weather will be mostly clear in March, it is an encouraging factor for the trekkers. The maximum altitude you’ll reach in this trek is 4130m at the Annapurna Base Camp. As the trek begins at the lower altitude of 1010m, you’ll get plenty of time to acclimatize to the conditions.
It is normal to have a slight fear of altitude sickness. The basic mantra of trekking in the Himalayas is one step at a time, and you’ll do just fine. Trying to ascend faster will only make things complicated. So, feel comfortable and walk at your own pace without rushing things.
Dehydration can also be an issue, especially while walking all day long across the trails. You might feel dizzy and physically tired due to lack of water, so it is highly recommended to drink plenty of water.
Furthermore, our highly experienced local guide will take care of you, monitor your oxygen level daily, and ready you mentally to complete the trek without any hassle.
Preparation for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
ABC Trek in March does not require an extreme level of preparation. Even as a novice trekker, you do not need to spend months preparing for this trek.
You can simply focus on a few exercises to remain physically fit and healthy. Considering the long walking hours in the trek, you can train your leg and muscles and be prepared for that. Cardiovascular exercises like walking, running and swimming will also help to boost your stamina.
Along with the physical preparation, you will also have to be mentally prepared for the trek. It is advised not to stress or overthink about what may happen in the trek, and remain cool and calm.
As long as you are physically and mentally prepared, you can comfortably complete the ABC Trek.
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Packing List for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in March
The weather is still slightly cold in early March and starts to get warmer by mid-March. So, if you are planning for the trek in early March, bring warm clothes.
We provide a duffel bag, sleeping bag, down jacket, and walking poles to our guests for the trek.
The complete packing list for the ABC Trek in March is listed below:
- Down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Two pairs of thermal layers (top and bottom)
- Lightweight fleece jacket
- T-shirts and walking trousers
- Woolen hat / Sun hat and Buff
- Hand gloves
- Mitten
- Woolen hat / Sun hat and Buff
- Hiking Boot
- Light Shoes / Sneaker / Flip-flops
- 3-4 pair of thick socks
- Good quality polarized sunglass
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm
- Towel and toiletries (Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, soap, toothbrush)
- Two water bottles of 1L each / CamelBak
- Power bank for your electrical devices
- Charger and extra batteries
- Daypack for carrying your personal goods (25-35 L)
- Duffel bag
- Sleeping bag (Suitable for up to -10 degrees)
- Walking Poles
Final Say
ABC Trek in March is an exciting opportunity to explore the Annapurna region and create lifelong memories. The weather conditions are also very ideal with clear and blue skies.
It is essential to get travel insurance for the trek that covers altitudes over 4000m. It comes in very handy in cases of altitude sickness, injuries, medical treatment, helicopter evacuation and other several unseen circumstances.
Furthermore, it is highly recommended to hire a guide and porter for the trek. Their knowledge and experience will go far beyond showing the route and carrying your luggage. A guide will make you acquainted with the mountains, local culture and brief insights of the Annapurna region. Their companion will be even more worthwhile in cases of emergencies.
Marvel Adventure offers the Annapurna Base Camp Trek on both a full board and service basis with a well-designed itinerary, experienced local guide and porter, food and accommodation, permits, transportation and all the other necessary arrangements.
Feel free to contact us in case of any queries regarding the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
If you want an extended trek to experience the breathtaking beauty of Annapurna region, we also offer a Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days itinerary, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas in a slightly longer timeframe.
