Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in September can be a fantastic experience. September falls under the autumn season in Nepal, which is considered one of the best times to trek in the Annapurna region. Here’s what you can expect during September:
Weather: Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September falls during the autumn season. The weather is generally stable, with clear skies and pleasant day temperatures. However, the weather can be unpredictable in the Himalayan mountains, and you may experience occasional rainfall or cloudy days. It is recommended to pack layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Landscape: The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and high alpine meadows. In September, you can expect lush greenery and blooming flowers along the trail, making for a glorious journey.
Crowds: September is considered part of the high trekking season in Nepal, including the Annapurna region. Expect a moderate number of hikers on the trail, especially around popular stops and guest houses. It is advisable to make your accommodation arrangements in advance to secure best place.
Mountain Views: The Annapurna Base Camp trek in September offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan giants such as Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), and more. September provides generally clear skies, increasing the chances of enjoying incredible views along the way.
Accommodation and Facilities: The trail to Annapurna Base Camp is well-established, and you will find guest houses at every stop for accommodation and meals. However, during high season, it is best to book your accommodations in advance to ensure availability.
Altitude and Acclimatization: Annapurna Base Camp lies at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). Adequate acclimatization is necessary to avoid altitude sickness. It is best to plan an itinerary that allows for gradual elevation gain and includes rest days for acclimatization.
Permits & Required Documents: A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are required to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. Before starting the trek, these permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1400m).
Your adventure begins when you arrive in Kathmandu. Our staff will welcome you at the airport and transferred to the hotel. You can either rest or explore Kathmandu at your own pace. In the evening a briefing session and at the same time introduces your guide.
Day 2: Drive to Nayapul (1070m) (approx. 7 – 8 hours), trek to Birethanti.
We will drive a Toyota hiace van from Kathmandu to Nayapul, following the Prithvi Highway, which connects Kathmandu and Pokhara. During the first half of the journey, it passes almost parallel to the Trisuli River, bringing the majestic Himalaya into view.
When we arrived at Nayapul, we begin our trek. After a short (30-minute) walk along the Modi Khola’s bank, we reach in Birethanti, a large village with many shops and guest houses. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 3: Trek to Chhommrong (2040m) 5 – 6 hours.
After breakfast, begin your trek towards Ghandruk, passing several local villages, viewing Annapurna south, Himchuli, etc you reach Ghandruk. Ghandruk is a large settlement inhabited by Gurung communities. This place offers a breathtaking view of numerous majestic peaks.
Above the village is the mighty peak of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and the Mt. Fishtail facing it across the valley. Chhomrong is a lovely village with many lodges offering comfortable accommodations. Chhommrong is a gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp hike and is home to the Gurung, one of Nepal’s major ethnic groups. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 4: Trek to Himalaya Hotel (2600m) 5 – 6 hours.
After descending down steep stone steps to the Chhommrong Khola, you’ll continue the trail and climb again up, first through terraced fields and then into a bamboo and rhododendron forests. Today’s trek is always up or down on steep, often paved trails.
You’ll see views of the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhare ahead, but mostly you’ll be treated to the lush and green forest canopy.
Once you arrive at Khuldigar, you will descend a stone staircase that leads to an area of remarkably dense bamboo forest that leads to the Bamboo.
You’ll ascend steeply through bamboo and rhododendron forest from here, following a trail high above the river until you reach the Himalaya Hotel at the end of the day. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 5: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) 5 hours.
Today’s trail climbs on pass the Machhapuchhare Base Camp, which isn’t truly a base camp since climbing the mountain is forbidden. This area is known as the Annapurna Sanctuary because it is entirely surrounded by Himalayan mountains.
A 2-hour trek from Machhapuchhare Base Camp leads you to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) at an elevation of 4130 meters. There, you will view unobstructed views of mountains scenery, which is very spectacular. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 6: Trek back to Bamboo/Sinuwa (2345m) 5 – 6 hours.
After enjoying in the incredible beauty, we descend from the Base Camp and retrace our steps to Deurali, Dovan, and ultimately Sinuwa.
We’ll pass countless waterfalls, forests, and, of course, be surrounded by amazing views of hills and peaks along the way. Upon reaching Sinuwa, we’ll check in at our guesthouse and spend a night over there. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 7: Trek to Jhinu hot spring (1780m) 5 hours.
We continue on the same trail until we reach Chhommrong. The trail continues through rhododendron and bamboo forests.
The trail descends steeply from Chhommrong to the Jhinu (hot spring), where you can relax in natural hot springs. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 8: Trek to Nayapul (1070m) and drive to Pokhara.
From Jhinu, we walk about 3 hours on the right side of Modi River to Birethanti, which is considered one of the best and most pleasant walks. We arrive in Nayapul and then take an hour’s drive back to Pokhara.
Enjoy the delights of Pokhara by visiting a spa or listening to live music. Or simply unwind in a quiet café or restaurant overlooking Fewa Lake. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
Day 9: Drive to Kathmandu.
Today, we drive back to Kathmandu. The overland journey by tourist coach will take around 6 hours.
In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner with a cultural show in typical local restaurant.
Day 10: Free day.
Today is a rest and relaxation day. Enjoy your final moments in Kathmandu by taking a city stroll or shopping for souvenirs.
You may go to Durbar Square in the heart of the old town to see the old Royal Palace with its beautiful woodcarving. The entire region is a maze of temples and images.
Day 11: Fly to home
It is time to say goodbye to Nepal. Our staff will meet you at your hotel and drive you to the airport for your flight back home.
Important Tips:
- Stay hydrated by carrying enough water or using water purification tablets.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes, along with layered clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
- Carry snacks, energy bars for sustenance along the way.
- It’s advisable to trek with a local guide or join a trekking group.
- Acclimatize yourself to the altitude and take regular breaks to rest and admire the surroundings.
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