Welcome to October – the undisputed champion of trekking months in Nepal. If trekking were a rock concert, October would be front-row seats with perfect weather, epic views, and the entire Annapurna range putting on its finest performance. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned mountain wanderer, this is the month where everything clicks – clear skies, stable trails, warm days, and that once-in-a-lifetime feeling that you’ve stepped into a National Geographic cover.
So lace up your boots and pack that extra camera battery – October on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is simply magic.
What Makes October So Special?
October is peak season for a reason. It marks the sweet spot between the summer monsoon and the harsh winter. The rain has cleaned the air and polished the mountains, and winter’s chill hasn’t yet crept in.
Everything is dry, clear, and trail-ready. And the best part? The teahouses are buzzing with trekkers from every corner of the world, swapping stories over dal bhat and apple pie.
Weather in October
| Location | Day Temp | Night Temp | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pokhara | 24–28°C | 14–18°C | Sunny and dry |
| Chhomrong Area | 18–22°C | 10–14°C | Crisp mornings, mild days |
| Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) | 5–10°C | -3 to 3°C | Cold nights, brilliant days |
Pro tip: Morning starts are golden – skies are clearest before noon, and sunrises on Annapurna South and Machapuchare are showstoppers.
Highlights of ABC in October
✅ Clear skies, panoramic mountain views nearly every day
✅ Stable weather – no need to watch the forecast like a hawk
✅ Dry trails, fewer bugs, and better footing
✅ Festive atmosphere – Dashain and Tihar fall in October, bringing color and culture to the villages
✅ Lively teahouses – warm food, social trekkers, and cheerful hosts
Any Downsides?
Only one: crowds. October is the most popular month for trekking in Nepal, and the Annapurna trails are no exception.
❌ Popular teahouses fill up quickly
❌ More people on narrow trails – especially near Chhomrong and Bamboo
❌ Prices may inch up slightly in peak season
Solution? Start early each day, and if you’re trekking with a guide or agency, let them pre-book rooms ahead – most have the connections to hold spots in advance.
Route Access in October
The trail is completely open and in excellent condition. Landslides and river crossings are minimal compared to the monsoon months. This is the smoothest ABC access window of the year.
| Route | Notes |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu to Pokhara | 7–9 hours by tourist bus or 25-min flight |
| Pokhara to Siwai or Ghandruk | Daily jeeps run smoothly via Nayapul |
| Trek begins | Most start from Siwai or Kimche |
What to Pack for ABC in October
October brings cool mornings, hot days in lower elevations, and crisp evenings at higher altitudes. Layering is your best friend.
Essentials:
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Moisture-wicking T-shirts + thermal layers
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Fleece or down jacket for higher altitudes
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Trekking poles for comfort on descents
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Warm hat and gloves for early mornings at ABC
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Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm – UV rays are strong!
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Reusable water bottle and water purification tabs
Estimated Trek Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost (per person) |
|---|---|
| ACAP + TIMS Permits | NPR 4,000 |
| Guide (optional) | $20–25/day |
| Porter (optional) | $18–22/day |
| Meals and snacks | NPR 2,000–2,500 per day |
| Lodging (tea houses) | NPR 500–1,000 per night |
| Jeep Pokhara–Siwai | NPR 3,000–6,000 (shared ride) |
Note: October is a good month to splurge a little – try fresh coffee, apple crumbles, or even grab a hot shower in Chhomrong if you’re lucky.
Cultural Bonus: Festivals in October
October often overlaps with Dashain and Tihar – Nepal’s biggest festivals. Villages come alive with prayer flags, tika ceremonies, and local gatherings. You might get invited to a family’s celebration or share a meal of sel roti and curd in a teahouse kitchen.
Should You Trek ABC in October?
If you want clear skies, stable weather, buzzing trails, and an all-around unforgettable trek – YES. October is the safest, most scenic, and most social month to hike ABC.
You’ll be walking with other dreamers, guided by sharp mountain silhouettes, and welcomed by some of Nepal’s warmest hospitality. It’s not just a trek – it’s an immersion into nature, culture, and the kind of beauty that rewires your sense of wonder.
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October is as close to perfect as it gets. Just book your teahouse early, carry a bit of patience during busy trail hours, and let the Himalayas do the rest.
If you’re not trekking in October, you’ll wish you were.
If you are trekking in October, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime.
Let TrekHeaven help you get started – from gear tips to guide connections, we’re here to make your Annapurna dream a little more real, one unforgettable sunrise at a time.
