Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate level trekking destination in Nepal that will take you to the base camp of world’s tenth highest peak, Mount Annapurna I. The trek is a combination of diverse landscape, culture, mountain vistas, terrains, wildlife, vegetation, and Gurung settlements. Along with this, coming across the natural hot spring at Jhinu Dada is exciting and helps you to soothe out your tiring muscles by bathing in the hot spring.
Traditionally, October is known to be the best time of the year for Annapurna Base Camp Trek as it provides a better view of the mountains such as Mount Annapurna, Mount Machhapuchhre, Mount Dhaulagiri, etc. The weather can be crisp, less heat haze, clouds, and overall clearer view of the natural beauty of the Annapurna region which makes October one of the best times to travel.
October marks the month of festivals in Nepal. The two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain, and Tihar fall in this month. As you trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, you will get a chance to be a part of such culture and tradition if you want to.
So, if you are planning on trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp in October, you have made the right decision. To make you more exciting and incredible, join us atIndex Adventure. We promise to provide you with the best facilities such as customizing your trip according to your choice.
Some highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October
- Exploring mountains such as Annapurna, Machhapucchhre, Dhaulagiri, and the other Himalayas.
- Walking along the trails rich in several ethnic groups, culture, and traditions.
- Trek to Poonhill which is popular for sunrise and sunset viewpoints.
- Exploring Gandhruk Village.
- Bathing in the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda.
- Witnessing the overall natural beauty of the Annapurna region.
Weather and Temperature during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October
October falls in autumn season in Nepal. Autumn is regarded as one of the best and peak seasons for trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp. The increasing number of tourists trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp October is because of the favorable weather and temperature the season offers.
The average daytime temperature of Annapurna region during October ranges between 20-25 degrees and the nighttime temperature ranges between 10-15 degrees. But, this temperature depends upon the higher and lower elevation areas that you are trekking. The average temperature of Pokhara is 21 degrees, Ghorepani Poonhill is 10 degrees and that of Chhomrong and Doban is 8 and 5 degrees respectively. However, the temperature at the Base Camp may be very cold and reaches up to -1 degree.
Overall, the weather condition of the Annapurna Region in October is very suitable for trekking. October comes after the monsoon period in Nepal and is known as the post-monsoon period. So during this time, you may not have to worry about occasional rainfall while trekking. However, it is always better to carry rain gears to avoid unwanted circumstances.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty in October
Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp, the base camp of the tenth highest peak, is definitely not easy as you think. You need to walk through different twists and turns, uphill and downhills to reach your final destination. Along with physical fitness, mental strength is what makes your trek less challenging.
Weather, temperature, and climate play a great role in determining the difficulty level of your trek. Luckily, October is the time which offers you with perfect weather and temperature, making it the best time of the year for Annapurna Base Camp trek. During October, you may not have to worry about walking in a muddy trail and fear of getting slipped along the way. Since October is the post-monsoon period, there is very less chance of rainfall in the Annapurna region.
Likewise, the difficulty level of the trek also depends upon the type of trekker you are. If you are someone who is used to trekking to a higher altitude, Annapurna Base Camp trek may not be very difficult for you. But, if you are someone who is not used to trekking at all, this trek may be quite challenging for you. So, for someone who is new to trekking, October would be best for you to have a less challenging trekking experience.
Food and Accommodation during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October
Unlike other treks, you will have plenty of options for food and accommodation along the way to the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Especially during October, most of the teahouses and lodges will be open to provide services to the trekkers.
You will have a teahouse accommodation with twin sharing bed during your trek. Such teahouses and lodges will provide you with a clean room consisting of a bed, blanket, soft pillow, a mattress, and an attached bathroom depending upon the type of accommodation you choose. You will have a facility off hot showers but will cost you extra money.
Taking about food during the trek, you will have a variety of options in food. You will be provided with three meals per day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can find varieties in food items, from traditional Nepali cuisine to international cuisine. The most popular one is national Nepali food, Dal Bhat and seasonal vegetables along with pickle. You can find other food items such as pancakes, bread, porridge, pasta, pizza, burger, sandwich and beverages such as tea, coffee, mineral water, hot lemon, etc.
During October, most of the teahouses and restaurants will be opened but they will also get packed because of the peak season. Because of this, you may also have to share our beds and wait for a long queue to have your meal. To avoid this situation, make sure to book for your food and accommodation early.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Packing List for October
Packing is one of the most important things to do before you start your trek. Packing for your ABC trek may not be as easy as you think. It requires a great budget and consideration when buying your trekking gears.
However, you are someone who has already had the trekking experience and are equipped with all the necessary items, you may have to face any problems when packing.
Since October has an appropriate weather condition, you may not have to carry bulky clothes with. Your backpacking might be light if you are trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp in October.
Here are some of the list of items that you need to pack for your ABC trek in October.
Footwear
There are certain types of footwear that you need to pack for your trek such as, hiking boots, trekking socks, and sandals.
Hiking Boots
Finding ideal trekking shoes may be difficult but it is one of the most important items to make your trek easy and comfortable. The comfortable your shoes are, the more comfortable your trekking experience will be. You can find several hiking boots available in the market that comes under different models. It is best if you buy those boots which are waterproof and durable.
Trekking Socks
It is better to buy woolen socks when trekking to a higher altitude. Such socks will keep you warm and absorb the moisture keeping your feet dry and fresh. You can buy 4 pair of thermal socks to keep your feet warm during October.
Sandals
Sandals may not be very important but will play a great role when you rest in the teahouse or a lodge. So bring a pair with you.
Clothing
For clothing, you do not have to pack too heavy clothes. Remember, you are trekking in the month of October and not during winter seasons. So, carry such clothes that and lightweight and will give you warmth at the same time.
Some of the clothing items that you need to pack are as follows:
- Cotton Tshirts
- Fleece Jackets
- Down Jackets
- Thermal Innerwear
- Trekking pants
- Cotton underwear
- Windcheater
- Gloves
- caps/ hats
Toiletries
As we have discussed, you will find several teahouses and lodges along the way to the Annapurna Base Camp. But, not every hotels and teahouses will provide you with proper toilet facilities. They will provide you with soap and water for cleaning purposes. So, it is better to bring your own toiletries such as:
- Toilet papers
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Cotton towel
- Body lotion
- Moisturizers
First Aid Kit
First Aid Kit is one of such things that you shouldn’t miss when trekking. You may face some minor accidents or injuries such as slipping along the way when trekking. For the instant cure of your wound, First Aid Box plays a vital role for immediate treatment. Here are some of the items that your First Aid Kit should contain:
- Antiseptic cream
- Bandage
- Scissors
- Antibiotic gel
- Diamox tablets
- Vicks Vapor Rub
Annapurna Base Camp Trek With or Without a Guide in October
Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp with or without a guide in October is definitely your choice and the type of trekker you are. But, there are a lot of benefits of hiring a guide when trekking.
Guide are usually familiar with the routes and suggest you with the best teahouse for food and accommodation facilities. They will help you to interact with the local people and there is less chance for you to getting lost on the way. Similarly, hiring a porter will make your trek more comfortable as they will carry your bags throughout your journey.
However, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is safe and can be done independently in October. The trails are wide and easy and you will come across many other trekkers taking the same route to Annapurna Base Camp as October is the time when the trekking trails are full of adventurous tourists.
So, if you have a good budget and are new at trekking, I would recommend you to hire a guide when trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp in October.
Conclusion
Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp is doable in every season but trekking to ABC in October will provide you with whole new experience. October has been the favorite for trekking among different trekkers all around the world. It is because, the month offers trekkers with good weather, climate, temperature and overall scenic beauty of the Annapurna region.
So if you are planning on trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp, October would be the best time for you to travel. Index Adventure is well equipped disciplined administrative who will assist you throughout your journey to Annapurna Base Camp. we can provide you with some tips regarding your trip in October as well. Contact us if you have any questions. We have a facility of customizing your trip if you want to.
