Annapurna Base Camp trek in February is an escape from boisterous life to a place that has nothing but the mountains and scenery. This trek of the world’s tenth highest mountain’s base camp has a unique impression among the adventurers around the world. How not when the area where this trek happens i.e. Annapurna Region is Nepal’s most beautiful part. Every year thousands of trekkers stretch over the trails of the Annapurna Base Camp(ABC). They love the mountains seen on this trek, charmed by the people they meet on the trek, greenery, and freshness that they get to encounter around the trail, and so on. ABC Trek is a trek that needs to become across by every single nature-loving soul.
This amazing voyage is usually preferred by the trekkers during the Autumn and Spring months. However, February, a month of the winter season, brings confusion among the trekkers on whether to do or not to do. Though February is an off time to trek, some of the true adventurers have been coming during this month. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in February is a peaceful way to experience the abundant beauty of the Annapurna region.
It’s peaceful as February is the month of the coldest Winter season. Most of the people do not like to trek during Winter as they think it’s entirely difficult during that weather. As a result, a few trekkers are only seen in the trail of ABC. That is not the same case if you trek in peak seasons like Autumn and Spring. Hundreds of trekkers can be seen along the trail in those seasons. So, a peaceful trail is the main reason for making Annapurna Base Camp Trek in February the best deal.
Yes, it’s true that the Annapurna region remains colder than ever during Winter. But that does not mean the trek is not doable at all. People know there is cold up in the mountains in Winter but what they don’t know are scenarios and events. The sky remains clear and so are the mountain views. It’s a cold trekking experience but with warm clothes in the backpack, you will enjoy the trek thoroughly.
If you want to experience something that most of the trekkers miss then go for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in February. Are you in? If yes, then this article is for you which imparts every bit of information about ABC Trek in February.
Why Annapurna Base Camp Trek in February
Lucent Mountain Views
Trekking in Nepal is more about the mountains than anything else. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the treks of Nepal known for better mountain sights. During February, mountains of the Annapurna region seem washed by the white snow. And there is not a single heck of a cloud to obstruct the view. You can enjoy the whitish view of peaks like Annapurna I, II, III, South, Machhapuchhre, etc all day long. The snow-clad peaks will make your trip scenic one.
Unoccupied Trekking Trails
February is the last month of one of the so-called off-seasons for trekking in Nepal. That may sound discomforting to some people but not for all. Off-season means you’ll not be around the crowds in the ABC Trek-like in the peak seasons. It will be you and your close friends on the trail to reach Annapurna’s Base Camp. However, unoccupied means not totally empty, there will be a few peace lovers like you trekking along the trail. Instead, a peace trekking environment lets you connect more closely than ever with nature.
Easy to get Accommodation
As you have known, the trail to ABC becomes peaceful in February. But here is another perk of the month that you don’t have to trouble around much for accommodations all over the trek. You’ll be given a wide variety of accommodations for your night to choose. This is not the case if you are here on this trail during peak trekking months. All too often, if no prior bookings, trekkers have to adjust with what they get. Luckily, you’ll not face such situations while doing ABC trek in February.
Season of Bargains and Discounts
“Bargains” and “discounts” are not possible if you are trekking in most popular trails like ABC in the peak seasons. Autumn and Spring, the two most crowded seasons in Nepal’s trekking trails have no room for bargains nor discounts. But if you are trekking in less-crowded(off) seasons, there is a high possibility of bargaining and discounts. As accommodation owners don’t get to host too many trekkers during low seasons. So they introduce discounts to attract trekkers.
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Weather & Temperature
As mentioned before, February is not a peak time for trekking and also not an easy time to trek. It’s a month of the coldest Winter season when the already freezing temperature of higher areas gets even colder. But, February is the least cold month as it is the last month of Winter in Nepal. Don’t expect warm temperatures though, it’s still Winter around Nepal in February. Lower areas of ABC Trek-like Ghorepani and Chhomrong will be much warmer than the higher areas. The weather of February calls you to be in warm layers along with all of the winter gear. Detailed temperatures of some of the popular stops of Annapurna Base Camp Trek are shown below:
Temperatures of various ABC Trek stops in February.
Place: Pokhara | Elevation: 1400m | Min Temp: 8.6°C | Max Temp: 21.4°C
Place: Ghorepani | Elevation: 2750m | Min Temp: -2.2°C | Max Temp: 9.4°C
Place: Chhomrong | Elevation: 2340m | Min Temp: -5°C | Max Temp: 19°C
Place: Dobhan | Elevation: 2600m | Min Temp: -8°C | Max Temp: 16°C
Place: Annapurna Base Camp | Elevation: 4130m | Min Temp: -20°C | Max Temp: 6°C
After going through the above-shown data, you can imagine how cold the Annapurna region becomes during February. The higher you go, the colder it will be. Still, the temperature and coldness can be overcome with a few good warm clothes on the body and backpack. Also, there can be days when the sun doesn’t show up at all, or rainfall may occur. For such unpredicted situations, your things in your backpack only can save you the most. If you successfully overpower those situations, the view you get after that as a reward will make your every effort worth-doing.
Trekking routes
There is no single way to reach Annapurna’s base camp but multiple ways. The two most popular trekking routes used by most of the trekkers are ABC via Poon Hill and ABC Direct. The former one is a longer route which includes a trek via the famous hill station of Nepal. And the latter one is the shortest of all ABC itineraries which heads straight to the base camp. Each of both routes have unique happenings. We will discuss briefly both routes down here:
1. Annapurna Base Camp via Poon Hill
Have you been to the two nicest places at once? If your head does not have a clue, then Annapurna Base Camp Via Poon Hill route gives you an experience for the latter. This route via Poon hill has been the most popular trekking route for those who have a few weeks to spare. You’ll reach Annapurna Base Camp only after spending a heart-healing time around Poon Hill(3,210m). Poon Hill is the most known hill station for beautiful mountain panorama and sunrise views. The entire Annapurna region’s mountains are sightable from the hill along with scenic terrains.
Basically, this route is a mixture of two renowned treks of the Annapurna Region. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in itself is the world’s most admired trek. And Poon Hill Trek is also the best short trek in Nepal to do. ABC Via Poon Hill route will firstly enable you to enjoy the finest views of mountains from Poon Hill station and then you head to ascend the base camp. Along the process of reaching ABC, you’ll pass by various iconic villages, enjoy food of their locals, spend overnights around their neighborhood. Adding Poon hill trek is as equal as adding cultural happenings in the ABC trek.
This trek of Mt Annapurna’s base camp via Poon Hill takes 12 to 16 days to complete. Yeah, it’s a long journey but you get to stray around in heaven for a while. February, the winter’s last month, is a doable time for the trek. The Annapurna region does not receive much rainfall as it lies in the rain shadow part. So no problem with rainfall but it will be brisk during February. If you are scheduling this trek in February, have some warmest clothes with you and you are ready to move.
Outline Itinerary of 13 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Via Poon Hill
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu(1300m)
Day 02: Fly to Pokhara and Drive to Nayapul before Trekking to Ulleri(2,050m)
Flight Duration: 30 minutes
Drive Duration: 2 hours
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 03: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani(2,750m)
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 04: Early morning hike to Poon Hill and then Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani(2,700m)
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Day 05: Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong(2,170m)
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Day 06: Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo(2,310m)
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 07: Trek from Bamboo to Deurali(3,230m)
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Day 08: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp(4,130m)
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 09: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo(2,310m)
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Day 10: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda(1,760m)
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 11: Trek to Naya Pul and then drive to Pokhara(1,400m)
Trek Duration: 6 hours
Drive Duration: 2 hours
Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu(1,300m)
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours
Day 13: Airport Drop and Final Departure
2. Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek
This is the trek for those who have limited travel time but want to reach the base camp of the world’s tenth highest peak. A short ABC trek is the shortest way to enjoy and experience the beauty of the Annapurna region besides Annapurna Base Camp ascend. The route of this trek goes nowhere but straight to the base camp. As the former route goes via Poon Hill, this route heads directly towards the mountains. It’s a rush and quick trek which may not be good for the beginners but for experienced trekkers.
The Short ABC Trek is the shortest of all the itineraries but views, happenings, experiences, and enjoyments are the same as the longer route. However, you’ll not trek via some parts of the Annapurna region like in other routes. But you’ll achieve the ultimate destination i.e base camp of Annapurna region, which is the best place to be in the entire Annapurna area. Along with that, you’ll pass via alluring places like Chhomrong, Bamboo, Himalaya, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Sinuwa, etc. So, yes, the shorter ABC trek is a speedy way to brace the awesomeness of the Annapurna region and base camp of its most popular mountain.
Autumn and Spring months are pretty good for this short itinerary but, if you hate overcrowded places then you have Winter months as well to pick from. February is the best month for short ABC Trek when the cold starts to leave the surrounding. Throughout February, you’ll be enticed by the mountain views full of snow. Other views like terrains and settlements will also equally charm your soul. If you have a week for the trek then it’s more than enough. Inside a week, you’ll be back after experiencing the cold view of ABC.
Outline Itinerary of 7 Days Short ABC Trek
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Siwai and Trek to Chhomrong(2,050m)
Drive Hours: 2 to 3 hours
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Day 03: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya
Trek Hours: 6 to 7 hours
Day 04: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp(4,130m) via MBC(3,700m)
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Day 05: Trek from ABC to Sinuwa(2,250m)
Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
Day 06: Trek from Sinuwa to Siwai and drive from Siwai to Pokhara via Nayapul
Trek Hours: 2 hours
Drive Hours: 2 to 3 hours
Day 07: Drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara by tourist bus
Drive Hours: 7 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the major highlights of ABC Trek in February?
Of unlimited highlights of the trek, here are the major limelights:
- Clear and undisturbed visions of the snow-clad peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Himchhuli, Manaslu etc.
- Reach the most desired base camps of the world Annapurna Base Camp and Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
- Experience the chilly yet fresh atmosphere of the Annapurna region.
- Share the interactions and journey with the like-minded trekkers from various parts of the world.
- The trail ahead via the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Watch the breathtaking sunrise and mountain horizon from Poon Hill.
- Add the adventure of trekking in the winter with the scenic exploration of the region.
How long can the ABC Trek last if done in February?
The answer to this question is totally dependent upon which route you pick. The shortest route takes around 6 days to complete and the longest ones can go anywhere around 12 to 16 days. There are other treks as well which are often made inclusive in the trek like Annapurna Circuit Trek, Poon Hill Trek. Therefore, if you head straight to the ABC then you can return from there within a week.
What are the doable times other than February for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
There are plenty of times when you can opt for ABC Trek other than just February. Peak and most suitable trekking months are the months of Autumn and Spring seasons. Likewise, the two other winter months i.e December and January are also doable with better clothing and preparations. However, Summer months i.e. June, July, August are not dared often but are entirely possible with proper gear and guide assistance.
How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trekking in February?
ABC Trek in February is uniquely difficult because of its harsh weather. Other than cold, all the things are universal in any other month. However, February is not the coldest month if put against January, the peak month of Winter. By mid-February, the temperature starts to get warmer and warmer. But still, it’s cold up there in the mountains. So you have to pack your best warm clothes for the trip. Other than this, ABC Trek is as difficult as the other peak months leaving Monsoon months.
What to Pack for ABC Trek in February?
February is a cold month and one of the winter months in Nepal. You have to pack accordingly for a successful and pleasant trek. Warm jackets and layers are must along with winter gear like Woolen cap, gloves, warm socks, etc. The basic detailed packing list for February ABC Trek is as below:
Clothing
- Waterproof, Windproof trekking pants
- Half trekking shirts
- Inner Thermals
- Fleece/Layer sweaters
- Outer-layer jacket and pants
- Strong trekking boots
- Down jacket
- Warm woolen cap
- Woolen gloves
- Liner socks
- Woollen trekking socks
- Ski goggles
- Umbrella/raincoat
Toiletries
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Foot powder (for stinky feet)
- Toilet paper
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Sanitizer
First Aid
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizers
- Diamox tablets
- Water purifier
- Anti-nauseant medication
- Rehydration salts
What are the important tips for February ABC Trek?
You have to become as aware as you can when thinking of doing the ABC trek in a cold month like February. But the must things to look are:
- Pack wisely and properly
- Acclimatize the body with higher altitude
- Drink enough water to keep the body hydrated.
- Carry Sunglasses as the sun hits hard during February and that can cause snow blindness.
- If you are not confident enough for the solo trek then hire an experienced guide and porter.
- Don’t proceed if heavy snowfall is expected or likely to occur.
- Have a raincoat in your backpack, that keeps your dry even during snowfall.
- Winter months’ days are the shortest of all. To start the trek early to cover the scheduled distance in time.
- Gaiters are a must for the winter trek as it saves your shoes from the snow.
- Follow the precautions to avoid altitude sickness and don’t ignore the symptoms of the sickness.
Similar articles you may like:
- How to Reach Poon Hill from Kathmandu
- Mustang Nepal Weather and Temperature
- Everest Base Camp Trek in January
- Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
What foods are available during ABC Trek in February?
Foods on the plates are the same as the other months in the ABC’s trail. Yet you get to eat the foods peacefully sitting on the bench. If it has to be in peak trekking months, you would have to eat in crowded communal areas. Luckily, there is not much crowd in February and you can get served food items from different cuisines. Western, Indian, Chinese, and continental items are the most common.
However, Dal Bhat, the local cuisine, which is also known as the trekking food of Nepal is the easily available food on the table of every lodge in the Annapurna region. The local food is a blend of rice, pulses, pickle, fried vegetable in one single plate. It is worth tasting and also gives enough energy to walk the entire day.
How is the accommodation during February in the trek like?
February is the time when most of the teahouses on the trail to ABC are empty and easily available. Plus, you can get rooms of your choice at certain discounts. The accommodations are the basic ones, not the standard. Rooms are equipped with the most basic things only like two beds, blankets, and pillows. Almost every room is on a twin sharing basis which you have to share with your fellow members.
However, you’ll not get attached to bathrooms all the time, sometimes you have to use common toilets. The teahouses are the accommodation provider along the trail and they provide services like hot showers, charging, dry cleaning, etc but with extra charges.
