Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April, An Unforgettable Journey in the Himalayas

From mountain peaks to rolling hills and humid jungles to high-altitude deserts, Nepal welcomes you in every season. However, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April is an amazing time. Clear skies, blooming flowers, and stunning views of the mountains make Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April perfect weather. Everywhere you look, the hills are covered in colorful rhododendrons, creating a breathtaking landscape.

The sun shines brightly during the daytime, which makes the April month ideal for trekking. The nights and early mornings can be a bit cold but not so unbearable as the winter season. The days are getting longer, which gives you more time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April is a popular month for trekkers, so that you will have plenty of friends on the trails. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Nepalese nature and culture. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, the Annapurna Base Camp trek in April offers a rewarding adventure.

In our blog, we’ll cover the highlights of trekking in April, the weather and temperatures you can expect, the best trekking routes, and some valuable travel tips to make your Annapurna Base Camp trek in April a memorable experience.

Highlights Of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April

• Trekking in Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April (spring) is the best choice because of the clear skies, blooming flowers, and crystal clear views of the Himalayas.
•  The month of April is known for warmer temperatures but sometimes hazy views.
• During April, the mornings are clear and sunny, but the weather often changes rapidly.
• The temperature is mildly warm at lower elevations like Ghorepani, Sinwa, and Dovan but moderate above 3500m.
• During the daytime, the temperature might go up to 20+°C and 5-7°C during the night.
• During April, the weather remains clear, with very few chances of rainfall.

Weather and Temperature during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April

April month lies in the mid-spring season in Nepal. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April is one of the best favorable weather. The weather is neither too hot nor too cold during the trek to the Nepal Himalayas.

The days are long, dry, and bright during the April month. Kathmandu and Pokhara cities have average daytime temperatures around 23-30 degrees Celsius.

It is quite warm at the lower elevations, but at the higher elevations over 4000 m, the weather is moderate during the trek. The average daytime temperatures during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April are around 20 degrees Celsius. Even during the night, it is not so cold. The temperatures only drop around 5-7 degrees Celsius.

The weather conditions change as you trek up and down in altitude. The Annapurna, Machhapuchhre Base Camps, and other highlands may have extreme weather conditions. Yet, April months is one of the best for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek usually has very little or no rainfall chances in April. You will get an opportunity to enjoy the trek with clear skies and amazing visibility of the surrounding landscapes.

Foods and Accommodations

Trekking includes outdoor activity; we have to walk long distances in remote and rugged areas. Food and accommodation play a vital role in making the trip satisfying and successful during such outdoor activities.

Food and accommodation are essential to any trek, as they provide energy and safety to keep hikers fueled and nourished during the journey.

The National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) protects the Annapurna region. Thus, food and lodging options must follow strict guidelines, including defined prices, high-quality standards, sanitation, and the construction of tea houses along main routes. Depending on geography and altitude, different facilities offer different food and lodging.

Foods during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April

On the Lower part of Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will find a tasty blend of Western and Nepali dishes in teahouses. Lower regions offer diverse breakfast choices like American and local sets.

In higher areas, options are limited to nutritious potatoes, rice, momos, and soup. Despite fewer choices, meals provide essential nutrients for a balanced diet on the Annapurna Base Camp trek in April.

Accommodations during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April

When trek to the Annapurna Base Camp in April, prepare for cozy but simple lodgings. After a day of hiking, you’ll appreciate the tea houses, which are a combination of lodges and guesthouses.

When trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in April, you’ll find cozy lodgings in the lower regions. These places offer private rooms, hot showers, and dining areas with power outlets and Wi-Fi.

As you go higher, the facility of lodges becomes more basic. Every room contains twin beds. You may need to pay extra for hot showers at certain lodges at higher altitudes. If you feel cold, you can ask for extra blankets in some lodge. It’s a comfortable and warm experience, perfect for your trekking adventure!

At moe higher altitude lodges, accommodations become more basic, with dorm-style rooms and shared bathrooms. Solar electricity is available for electricity, but bring a headlamp and powerbanks. Remember to book early during April, as places fill up fast because of the peak season.

Crowds during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April

Due to favorable weather conditions, April is considered one of the best months to undertake this trek. Expect relatively high numbers of trekkers on the trail, especially around popular stops and teahouse accommodations.

Accommodations along the trek, which are mainly teahouses, may see high demand in April. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially at a higher altitude, because there will be limited lodging.

The trail may be busy, particularly in areas where multiple trekking routes converge or at popular viewpoints. April offers a vibrant social atmosphere on the trek, as you’ll likely encounter fellow trekkers from around the world. Trekking during the earlier part of the day may help you avoid the peak crowds on the trail.

Ensure you have obtained the necessary permits for the trek in advance, as there might be queues or delays during the peak season.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

While rating a trek difficulty, we consider many factors like altitude gained every day, length of trek daily, highest altitude, terrain type, weather, etc. Based on this, we rate the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara as a moderate level trek.

Most of the ABC trail covers the small villages, which are easy to walk with the great view of green landscapes and dazzling mountains. We will start our trek from Pokhara, which will help our body to acclimatize properly. We will start our trek from an altitude of around 2940 ft and reach an altitude of 13,550 ft in 4 to 5 days.

However, the trail gets somehow harder as you get to highlands like Annapurna Base Camp. Sometimes, you will have to walk for around 8 to 9 hours while returning from the trek. This makes the trek moderate, but anyone physically fit can complete this trek.

You will need around 1 month of physical and mental training before doing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara. You can start the training with jogging and cardio to increase your stamina. You should set your target before doing the exercise. You can target 10 KM in under 60 minutes while jogging.

What to pack for the trip

It is what you pack inside your bag that determines how your Annapurna Base Camp trek in April is going to be. This trek takes you from altitudes of 1400m to 4130m. Thus, you need to pack a mixture of light, warm clothes to heavy, cold weather clothes.

Clothing

Base Layer: 2 long-sleeved shirts and 2 full pants for early March, and the recommended number for April.

Insulation Layer: 1 fleece jacket and 1 fleece bottoms. Optionally, a sleeveless puffer jacket for April.

Third Layer: 1 wind/rainproof outer layer (jacket and pants) and 1 insulating jacket. Thick jackets are optional for April.

General Trekking Clothes:

Trekking Trousers and Shorts: Consider replacing shorts with trousers in early March. 1 pair of each is suitable for April.

Trekking Shirts: 2 long and short-sleeve shirts made of moisture-wicking fabric.

Waterproof Shell Jacket and Trousers: ** Optional for April; good for early March.

Inner Garment

Pairs of breathable underwear and sports bras.

Headwear

Hat: Wide-brimmed hiking hat for sun protection.

Beanie: Essential for cold nights and mornings.

Neck Gaiter: Buff or neck gaiter for face and neck protection.

Gloves

Inner Gloves: Light and warm for intricate tasks.

Outer Insulated Gloves: Warm, waterproof, and suitable for sub-zero temperatures.

Footwear

Hiking Boots: Light to mid-weight with ankle support, waterproof, and well-worn.

Trekking Shoes/Sandals: 1 pair for relaxation after hikes.

Hiking Socks: 5-6 pairs of breathable and moisture-wicking socks.

Warm Thermal Socks: 1 or 2 pairs for cold weather.

Bags and Backpacks

Duffel Bag: Durable and weather-resistant, 70L-90L for porters.

Backpack: 50-65L for personal use.

Daypack: Essential for carrying daily essentials.

Raincover: Protects bags from elements.

Dry Bag: Separates clean and dirty clothes.

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping Bag: 4-season with at least -10 degrees Celsius rating.

Liner: Provides extra warmth.

Ear Plugs: Useful for poorly sound-proofed tea house rooms.

Trekking Equipment and Supplies

Trekking Poles: Lightweight and packable for joint support.

Sunglasses: UV sunglasses for sun protection.

Headlight: Essential for poorly lit tea houses.

Water Bottle/Hydration Bladder: Staying hydrated is crucial.

Toiletries and Others

Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying.

Pee Funnel: Useful for challenging toilet situations.

Sunscreen: SPF 50 or higher for face, body, and lips.

Baby Wipes, Hand Sanitizers: Convenient for cleanliness.

Technology and Entertainment

Camera: Capture memories of the trek.

Portable Charger: Necessary for recharging electronics.

*Books/Kindle: Entertainment for free time.

Cards: Great for socializing in tea houses.

Documents

Passport: Always carry with copies.

Money: Sufficient local currency.

Insurance: Essential for emergency evacuation.

Medications

Water Purification Tablets: Prevents water contamination.

Isotonic Powder: Replaces lost electrolytes.

First Aid Kit: Include common medications and Diamox.

Plasters: Blister and regular fabric plasters.

Oximeter: Measures oxygen saturation and heart rate.

Getting To Annapurna Base Camp

If you want to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal, it usually takes 5-7 days. Pokhara is the starting point, a beautiful city with lakes. Many trekkers rest here before their journey.

You can reach Pokhara from Kathmandu by road or air. Road travel time depends on traffic, but private vehicles offer flexibility. Flying is the quickest, taking about 30 minutes, with scenic views of the Himalayas. Flights can be affected by weather and may cost high.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara is the most popular way to reach the base camp. There are three routes, with Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk being popular. All paths lead to Chomrong village, the gateway to the base camp. The trek route offers you thrilling experiences, taking you to diverse routes and charming villages.

Events In April In Nepal

Holi

Hindus have been celebrating Holi since ancient times. The Holi Festival is celebrated as a means to greet spring, as well as a new beginning in which individuals may let go of their inhibitions and start over. They relax and enjoy one another’s company, making time to dance according to their cultural traditions.

Participants at the Holi Festival throw powder dye into the air, covering everyone in attendance in brilliant colors. In a religious context, the colors are rich in symbolism and have numerous meanings: they may signify a vivid new life or even sin in certain ways.

Holi is celebrated on the final full moon day of the lunar month of (Phalguna), which is usually around the end of March or the beginning of April. The specific day of Holi might vary from year to year.

Maha Shivaratri

Maha Shivaratri is a festival where people worship to overcome darkness and ignorance in life. People remember Lord Shiva and chant prayers, fast, do yoga, and meditate on ethics and virtues. Worshippers wish for attributes such as self-restraint, kindness, honesty, and forgiveness. Devotees in Pashupatinath chant “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Mahamritunjaya.” all night and pray for protection from negative energy. Other festivals are celebrated during the day, but Maha Shivaratri is usually celebrated at night.

Maha Shivaratri is celebrated every year, but the festival dates vary from year to year. This festival is celebrated usually around March or April.

Nepalese New Year

In Nepal, the New Year’s Day is a national holiday. The official calendar of Nepal, known as Bikram Sambat, begins on this holiday. This calendar’s New Year often occurs around the middle of April. Lunar months and solar sidereal years are used for the Nepalese New Year.

Because of this, the history of the Nepali New Year is a part of Bikram Samvat (BS.). The history of Bikram Samvat is connected to the history of the Nepalese New Year.

Emperor Vikramaditya is the one who is credited with creating the Nepali calendar. The period of King Vikramaditya is associated with the beginning of the Nepali calendar. Stated differently, Bikramaditya, the ancient ruler, is connected to the history of Bikram Samvat. During the Annapurna base camp trek in April, you can experience the celebration of the Nepalese New Year.

Bisket Jatra

Bisket Jatra, Bhaktapur’s most popular festival, is popular for its cultural and historical significance. This festival is celebrated for eight nights and nine days in mid-April. Bisket Jatra marks the welcome of spring. Thousands from all over the country gather at Bhaktapur for this incredible festival.

The festival starts with locals pulling a giant chariot carrying the Bhairav’s statue. A spirited tug of war between the eastern and western parts of the town arises, with a massive crowd cheering on. The air is filled with the lively tunes of Newari Dhime music. As the chariot pauses at revered city spots, people come forward, offering rice, coins, flowers, and Sindur (red powder) to the deity’s statue. The chariot then proceeds to Khalna tole in Bhaktapur.

Ghode Jatra

Ghode Jatra, also known as the Horse Parade, is an annual celebration held in mid-April. The Nepal Army and Nepal Police organize and perform this parade at Tudikhel. On this day, the head of state traditionally attends and observes the military procession.

While Ghode Jatra is a significant event for the Newar community, it is also a public holiday, allowing people to spend time with their families. The people gather around Tudikhel from all directions to see the grand horse parade. It can get quite crowded and chaotic, but the experience is beautiful.

In Newari families, this day is marked with a traditional feast, similar to other important festivals in their culture. Families prepare feasts to celebrate this special occasion with their relatives. The celebration may also symbolize the changing of the season.

Why trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April?

Crisp views

April marks the beginning of the pre-monsoon season in Nepal. Skies are generally clear with minimal cloud cover. This is a great advantage for the trekkers heading to the Annapurna Base Camp in April. It means that the visibility of the surrounding mountains is excellent.

The crispness of the views allows trekkers to see the intricate details of the Himalayan peaks, including the snow-capped summits and the dramatic landscapes. The clarity of the atmosphere during April is conducive to taking stunning photographs and fully appreciating the grandeur of the natural surroundings.

Fewer chances of rainfall

April is part of the pre-monsoon season in Nepal. Unlike the summer months that follow, April tends to have relatively low rainfall. This means that the chances of encountering heavy rain or continuous rainfall during your trek are significantly reduced.

Dry conditions make the trekking trails more stable and less slippery, enhancing safety for trekkers. The trails are less likely to become muddy and waterlogged. This is especially important for trekking, as muddy paths can make the journey more challenging and increase the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, the risk of landslides is minimized.

You can find the trails easily, and the low chance of rain means there’s no need to use rain gear constantly. As a result, you will be able to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Annapurna Base Camp without any worry about bad weather conditions.

Stable and moderate weather

April is relatively dry and stable. Trekkers can expect consistent weather patterns, minimizing the risk of unexpected weather-related challenges. April is part of the spring season, and the weather in this month is in moderate temperatures. Daytime temperatures are usually pleasant to warm at lower altitudes along the path, which makes your trek more comfortable. The nights are cooler but not excessively cold, offering a pleasant environment for rest.

Clear Views of the Panoramic Himalayas

The lower chance of cloud cover in April enhances visibility. Clear skies mean that trekkers can see the entire range of Annapurna peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), which is the 10th highest mountain in the world, and the stunningly iconic Machapuchare (Fish Tail) peak. Trekkers can capture the details of the rugged mountain terrain, the play of light and shadow on the snow-capped peaks, and the overall grandeur of the Himalayas. Sunrise and sunset views are particularly spectacular during this time.

Rhododendron blossoms everywhere

April is the peak of the rhododendron blooming season in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Rhododendrons are Nepal’s national flower. It will be amazing to see if you are joining the Annapurna base camp trek in April. In this month, hills and forests along the trekking trails are decorated with vibrant rhododendron flowers.

You will find various species of rhododendrons during the trek. The hills are covered with varied colors, including shades of red, pink, and white. The diversity of colors adds a vivid landscape, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

Travel Tips For Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April

• The lodges and flights might fill up fast because of peak season. Book in advance and make sure of your flights, and stay during the trek.
• If you are interested, give a visit to different types of festivals celebrated in April.
• It is a windy month in Nepal and receives occasional rainfall during the trek, so remember to keep a wind and waterproof jacket.
• Always follow the respective protocols while visiting religious monuments and cultural shrines.
• Pack the clothes in layers as you walk in the higher elevations.
• Take precautions for the skin layers of the eyes because days are usually bright.
• Do not compete with others or rush, and maintain your own pace to get prevent from altitude sickness.
• You will notice many wild flowers in the trail so be aware if you are allergic to pollen.

Book Annapurna Base Camp Trek for April 2024 and 2025

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp with us offers an unparalleled adventure and a truly memorable experience. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the safest, most immersive, and culturally enriching journey.

With expert local guides, we provide you with good knowledge of the terrain and a deep understanding of the local culture. You will not only pass through stunning landscapes and trails but also engage with the warmth and hospitality of the local people.

Our itineraries are carefully designed to ensure a balanced blend of adventure and comfort. It allows you to enjoy the breathtaking view of rhododendrons and dazzling Himalayan peaks. Safety is what we take seriously during the trek. Our licensed guide can handle any situation that may arise during the trek. Book with us for an unforgettable Annapurna Base Camp trek in April, where every step is a new adventure.

Final Words

Finally, Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with stunning scenery and beautiful rhododendron flowers.

The stunning weather and clear skies enhance the incredible Himalayas’ views as you travel the trails. Because of the favorable weather in April, this famous route is best explored by both experienced hikers and beginners.

The Annapurna Base Camp journey in April offers a completely immersive and fascinating experience for anybody looking for the ultimate Himalayan adventure. Put on your boots, enjoy the peace of the mountains, and use April as your starting point for the incredible Annapurna Base Camp trip.