“May I trek to ABC in May?”
That’s a question we get a lot—and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s more like: “How well do you handle warm days, forest humidity, and occasional surprise showers—with views that still knock your socks off?”
Welcome to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek in May—a time when spring starts to say goodbye, and the first whispers of monsoon creep in. But don’t write it off just yet. For the right kind of traveler, May can offer lush trails, fewer crowds, and magical moments.
Let’s break it down.
☀️ The Weather in May: Warm Days, Rainy Afternoons
Quick facts:
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C (depending on elevation)
- Rain: Increasing frequency, especially mid to late May
- Snow: Mostly melted—no snow on the trail except at the Base Camp itself
- Visibility: Good in the mornings, but hazy/cloudy by late afternoon
What it feels like:
Lower sections like Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Sinuwa feel humid and tropical. You’ll be sweating. But as you climb above Deurali into the sanctuary, it cools down nicely, especially at night. The sky often stays clear early in the morning, offering stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare—but by afternoon, clouds roll in like drama queens.
Pro tip: Start your days early. Sunrise is your best friend.
🌿 Trail Conditions: Mud, Rocks, and Rhododendrons
By May, most of the snow has melted, so no crampons or gaiters needed. But you may encounter:
- Muddy trails after showers (especially between Bamboo and Deurali)
- Slippery rocks and stairs—a lot of them!
- Occasional leeches below 2,000 meters (they love humidity)
On the flip side:
- Forests are lush and bursting with life
- Rhododendrons still hang around in early May at mid-altitudes
- Waterfalls are spectacular, and the rivers are gushing with that satisfying mountain roar
✨ The Overall Experience: Quieter, Greener, and a Bit Wacky
May is kind of like the wildcard of trekking seasons—not as crisp as autumn, not as cold as winter, and not yet drenched by full monsoon. Here’s what it’s really like:
The Good:
- Fewer trekkers compared to peak seasons (October or April)
- Warmer nights—you won’t freeze at Base Camp
- Green everything—from rice terraces to moss-covered trees
- Easy to find teahouse beds without advance booking
The Not-So-Good:
- Weather becomes less predictable the later in May you go
- Cloud cover might block mountain views in the afternoons
- Afternoon rain becomes more likely by mid-May onward
☕ Food & Accommodation in May
All teahouses are fully operational, and you’ll get:
- The standard dal bhat power 24 hour
- Comfortable rooms (still basic, but more availability)
- Hot showers (solar heated—don’t count on them in cloudy villages)
Fewer people = less wait time for food, and you might even get to chat with the teahouse owners more intimately. Great for those deeper “what-is-life” convos after a long day of stairs.
🗺️ Sample Itinerary (7–10 Days)
Here’s a classic itinerary you can tweak depending on your pace:
| Day | Route | Altitude | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive to Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri | 1,540 m | Get those knees ready |
| 2 | Trek to Ghorepani | 2,860 m | Steep climbs, rhododendron forests |
| 3 | Early hike to Poon Hill, then trek to Tadapani or Chhomrong | 2,170–2,610 m | Epic sunrise |
| 4 | Trek to Bamboo or Dovan | ~2,310 m | Humid zone begins |
| 5 | Trek to Deurali | 3,200 m | River views, few short climbs |
| 6 | Trek to ABC | 4,130 m | Start early, avoid afternoon clouds |
| 7 | Hike down to Bamboo or Jhinu | ~2,300 m | Optional hot spring at Jhinu |
| 8–9 | Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara | — | Treat yourself to a lakeside beer |
⚠️ Tips for Trekking ABC in May
- Start early every day to beat both the sun and the clouds
- Bring a light rain jacket or poncho, even for morning hikes
- Carry insect repellent (especially for the forest sections)
- Stay flexible—weather might shift your plans by a day or two
- Pack quick-dry clothes—you’ll sweat, you’ll get wet, you’ll live
Final Verdict: Is ABC in May Worth It?
If you’re allergic to the unknown or desperately need blue skies 24/7—maybe stick to October or early April.
But if you’re a bit more laid-back, adventurous, and rain-curious, trekking ABC in May is absolutely worth it. The lush beauty, solitude, and off-peak charm can easily outweigh the weather gamble—especially if you plan it right.
At TrekHeaven, we say:
May the trails be slippery, the clouds be dramatic, and the views break through just when you least expect them.
Want Help Planning a May ABC Trek?
We’ve got customizable itineraries, local guides, and real advice (no sugarcoating). Hit us up—we’ll help you make the most of your May-in-the-Mountains journey.
