March is when the Annapurna region begins to wake up from its long, silent winter slumber. The snow hasn’t quite melted at the higher altitudes, but down in the lower trails, spring quietly tiptoes in with blooming rhododendrons, warmer days, and clearer skies.
If you want the serenity of winter but with a touch of spring’s charm, March might just be your golden window for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
What’s So Special About March?
March is the transitional month. You get the best of both seasons—fewer crowds, snowy peaks, and the beginnings of color returning to the hills. Plus, the weather stabilizes and teahouses begin to buzz with life again.
Perfect for trekkers who want less crowd than April and May, but still prefer not to brave the extremes of winter.
Weather Overview
| Location | Day | Night | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pokhara (820 m) | 18–25°C | 8–13°C | Pleasant and sunny |
| Chhomrong (2,170 m) | 12–17°C | 4–8°C | Crisp, occasional drizzle |
| MBC (3,700 m) | 4–10°C | -3 to -6°C | Snow likely |
| ABC (4,130 m) | 0–6°C | -6 to -10°C | Cold but stable, gorgeous views |
Snow remains from Deurali upward, but trails are more stable than in peak winter.
March Trail Vibes
This is the month when you begin to see more trekkers, but the trails are still far from packed. You’ll pass blooming forests, witness the last of the snowfalls, and have plenty of peaceful moments for photography and meditation.
Expect:
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Snow above Deurali and MBC
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Bursting rhododendrons in the lower regions
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Friendly teahouses gradually getting busier
Highlights Unique to March
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Sunrises from ABC are spectacular—cold mornings but clear skies.
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Forest trails glow with wildflowers, making for epic photos.
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Chances of avalanche drop (though still present).
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Temperatures are cold, but days are long enough for comfortable pacing.
Getting to the Trailhead
Still one of the easiest treks in terms of logistics.
From Pokhara, take a jeep to:
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Ghandruk (for a shorter route)
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Nayapul or Siwai (classic ABC start)
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Jhinu Danda (if you want a hot spring ending)
Jeeps cost:
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$10–$15 per person (shared)
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$40–$60 for a private ride
Roads are dry and open—March makes transportation easier than previous months.
What You Need to Watch Out For
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Snowfields from MBC to ABC still require care—especially early mornings.
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Crampons or microspikes may be useful, depending on snowfall.
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Trail meltwater can make the path slushy—carry gaiters if needed.
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Altitude acclimatization is just as important—take your time.
Packing Tips for March ABC Trek
It’s all about layering and flexibility in March. Expect sun, snow, rain, and wind—often in the same day.
Don’t forget:
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Waterproof hiking boots
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Warm sleeping bag (-10°C recommended)
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Down jacket, thermal base layers
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Rain cover and jacket
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Microspikes (if going early March)
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Sun protection (yes, you’ll need SPF at 4,000+ m)
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Snacks: March brings longer days, so energy bars help
Crowd Meter
| Season | Crowd Level | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Early March | Low | Winter beauty, quiet trails |
| Mid-March | Moderate | Ideal balance of activity |
| Late March | Moderate–High | Spring trekkers start arriving |
Budget Snapshot
| Category | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Permits (ACAP + TIMS) | NPR 3,000–4,000 |
| Meals/day | NPR 2,000–2,500 |
| Lodging/night | NPR 500–1,000 (higher in spring) |
| Guide | $25–30/day |
| Porter (optional) | $20–25/day |
| Jeep from Pokhara | $10–$60 depending on sharing |
Local Insights and Tips
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Teahouses fill quickly after mid-March—book ahead if possible
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March is perfect for hot springs at Jhinu Danda
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The rhodo bloom is best between Chhomrong and Bamboo
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A few leeches may begin to appear on lower trails in late March if it’s rainy
Final Word: Is March a Good Time for ABC?
Yes, and how.
Annapurna Base Camp in March is the season of quiet optimism. The land thaws, the flowers wake, and the Himalayas offer you a gentle but firm handshake—welcoming, wild, and wonderfully real.
If you want variety, beauty, and a touch of solitude, March is a seriously underrated time to trek ABC.
