The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October is the most incredible way to experience the Himalayan paradise. After the rainy season has ended (September), the skies are clear, trails are dry, and you can see Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Gangapurna from their best vantage point each year. Daytime temperatures are pleasant while nights can be cold, but there is no comparison to the beauty of the mountains at this time.
Group of trekkers on a snow-covered trail with Machhapuchhre peak towering behind in October
This blog is written for beginners, solo travellers, and group adventurers who want a clear, honest picture of what the ABC Trek in October looks like — from weather and temperatures to costs, permits, and packing tips.
Description of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October
The October ABC Trek will bring you into the middle of Nepal’s largest protected area, the Annapurna Conservation Area, all the way up to base camp (4,130 m)—a summary of some quick facts.
Trek Detail
Information
Max Altitude
4,130 m (Annapurna Base Camp)
Total Distance
58–76 km (route dependent)
Duration
7–12 days
Difficulty
Moderate
Start / End Point
Nayapul or Jhinu Danda (from Pokhara)
Best Time
October — peak autumn season
The ABC trek goes through four unique locations before arriving at ABC: Chhomrong, Bamboo, Dovan, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). There are also many established teahouses along the ABC Trek, making it ideal for trekkers with an average or moderate level of fitness, unlike other treks, such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which have far fewer along the way.
Annapurna Base Camp Weather and Temperature in October
Trekkers walking beside a still mountain lake reflecting snow peaks and prayer flags at ABC
October is the month when you can expect some of the best weather conditions for visiting Annapurna Base Camp. The dry weather following the monsoons, with excellent visibility and clean air across the Annapurna massif,f will result in some of the easiest trekking to get to Annapurna Base Camp. However, the weather will differ depending on the elevation where you are located. The weather will be warm and comfortable at the lower elevations of your trek, but it can drop below zero at Annapurna Base Camp after dark.
Location
Daytime Temp
Night Temp
Nayapul / Lower Trail (~1,500 m)
22°C – 28°C
12°C – 15°C
Chhomrong (2,170 m)
15°C – 22°C
7°C – 10°C
Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m)
5°C – 12°C
-3°C – 0°C
Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
3°C – 10°C
-5°C to -8°C
The best views of mountains from a distance occur in mid-late October, although there may still be residual moisture left on the ground in our lower elevation forests due to post- monsoon rain until the second week of October, when conditions begin to improve significantly. Be sure to pack your warm down jacket and thermal underwear because temperature fluctuations will occur between daytime and nighttime, with average temperature differences being up to 15 degrees Celsius when compared to afternoon temperatures at the ABC area.
Difficulty Level of the ABC Trek in October
Machhapuchhre peak at dusk with a crescent moon and soft pink twilight sky
The ABC Trek is classified as moderate, with no technical climbing or use of crampons required during this trip. You should have the ability to trek for 5-7 hours daily on continuously hilly terrain. The stairway section between Chhomrong and Sinuwa contains the steepest incline. If you are trekking above 3,500m, you may have mild altitude sickness, so drink lots of water, rest, and lower your elevation if necessary.
If you want to continue trekking after completing ABC, then the next logical progression is to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek by crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416m. Another fantastic trek outside of the more commonly visited treks is the Langtang Valley Trek, located north of Kathmandu.
ABC is a great starting point for individuals to experience their first Himalayan trek, especially with the stable weather in October.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost in October 2026
Expense
Budget
Mid-Range
Premium
Permits (ACAP + TIMS)
$50
$50
$50
Guide (per day)
—
$30–40
$40–50
Porter (per day)
—
$20–25
$25–30
Accommodation (per night)
$5–10
$10–20
$20–35
Meals (per day on trail)
$15–20
$20–30
$30–50
Total Estimate (11 days)
$350–500
$700–1,000
$1,200–1,800
October is the most expensive month on the ABC trail. Teahouses fill up fast — book your guide and accommodation at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
Required Permits for the ABC Trek
Namaste Annapurna Base Camp welcome sign at 4130m decorated with colorful prayer flags
To trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, all trekkers must obtain both an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) at NPR 3000 ($22 USD) and a TIMS Card at NPR 2000 ($15 USD). Starting January 1st, 2026, all foreign trekkers will be required to employ a licensed guide for any trekking in Nepal. Because of this, TIMS cards will need to be processed through a registered agency to be valid. Though you can go independently on the ABC trek, hiring a guide will provide you with added assistance and trust when trekking at high altitudes.
Packing List for ABC Trek in October
Clothing
Layers: moisture-wicking base layer, fleece mid-layer, insulated down jacket (essential at ABC), waterproof shell
Lower body: trekking trousers + thermal leggings
Accessories: warm hat, gloves, buff, wool trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
Annapurna sanctuary valley with teahouse lodges and massive snow-capped peaks on a clear October day
Dashain — Nepal's major Hindu event usually takes place between early and mid-October. The adornment of homes and communities as you walk through Gurung and Magar villages on the lower path provides a genuinely authentic cultural element to your journey.
The next major festival is Tihar (festival of lights), which is celebrated at the end of October and features oil lamps and marigold decorations along the trail.
Due to the holiday schedule during Dashain, some of the transport services will be running on a limited schedule. Be sure to make your jeep booking from Pokhara to Nayapul early enough if you would like to begin your trek in early October.
Key Tips for Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in October
Go mid to late October: weeks 2 and 3 offer the clearest skies and best conditions.
Start early each day: clouds build above 3,000 m by early afternoon — mornings give the best mountain views.
Stay hydrated: drink 3–4 litres per day above 3,000 m to help with acclimatisation.
Don't rush altitude: rest if you feel headaches or dizziness. Descend if symptoms worsen.
Book everything early: October is the busiest month — arrange guides, permits, and teahouses weeks in advance.
How to Reach the ABC Trailhead
Kathmandu to Pokhara: 25-min domestic flight (USD 90–120) or 6–7 hr tourist bus (USD 10–15). Book flights well ahead in October.
Pokhara to Nayapul: 45–60 min jeep or taxi (USD 15–25 shared / USD 40–50 private).
Alternative — Jhinu Danda: drive here to shorten Day 1 and enjoy natural hot springs at the trek's end.
FAQs
Is October the best month for the ABC Trek?
Yes. The heavy rains from the monsoon have stopped, so the skies are clear and temperatures are very comfortable, all the trails are dry, and you will see the mountains at their sharpest. October is by far the busiest month on the trail.
How cold will the ABC be at night in October?
At night, the temperature around the ABC (4,130m) will drop to -5 to -8 degrees Celsius. You must have a sleeping bag rated for -10 degrees Celsius and a warm mid-layer (down or synthetic puffy) for your evening rest.
Is the ABC Trek beginner-friendly in October?
Absolutely. There is no technical skill required for the ABC Trek, which is deemed a moderate trek. The weather in October is usually quite stable; thus, October is the best month to do the ABC Trek if you are a beginner.
Will I need a guide for Trek to Annapurna Base Camp in October 2026?
Yes, as per the Laws of Nepal, since 2026, all foreign trekkers on the Annapurna trekking routes must be with a licensed trekking guide.
Conclusion
October is a beautiful time to visit Annapurna Base Camp for the first time or return from a trek such as Upper Mustang. The weather is comfortable and pleasant due to good trail conditions and the fall festival atmosphere created by the Dashain and Tihar festivals. Clear skies allow for excellent views of the mountains.
Annapurna Base Camp is one of the best places to go trekking in the Himalayas because there are many different ways to reach base camp, providing options for all types of trekkers. Of all the treks in Nepal, ABC in October has the most combination of beauty, accessibility, culture, and ease of travel.
If you plan on trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in October, please contact us at Himalayan Recreation Treks and Expedition as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
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