The trek to Annapurna is a magnificent trekking experience to a region with diverse terrain, culture, wildlife along with the spectacular view of the Himalayas. The Annapurna Base Camp in September is by far one of the easiest and much more convenient treks in Nepal than other high-altitude treks. It is a dream destination for most trekkers around the world. With the striking views of the natural landscapes, It is one of the few natural attraction destinations in Nepal that look splendid throughout the year. Passionate trekkers from all around the world visit Nepal every year in a large amount for trekking to Annapurna base camp. This trail is one of the busiest trails during the seasons. This trek not only reflects the striking peaks but also offers a drastic opportunity to explore the culture and tradition of people living over here.

September is the beginning of Autumn and also the best time for trekking to the Nepali Himalayas. Offering a wonderful scenario of majestic peaks, it is one of the peak seasons in Nepal for trekking to the Himalayas. The monsoon rain cleans up the atmosphere making it the best place for the natural view in September. During your trek to Annapurna base camp in September, you will see natural green landscapes with the water bodies such as rivers, streams, waterfalls, etc are alive in September. The clean and fresh air brings astonishing mountain vistas of Annapurna, Mt. Machhapuchhre, and many others.

Trekking in September offers lush forests and diverse terrains with vibrant pictures of the white Himalayas.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp in September

• Witness the sheer beauty of the diverse Himalayan landscape and hike through remote villages, fairy-tale forests, vast moorlands cut by cascading rivers, and the blue-hued peaks of base camp
• Explore Kathmandu city- the capital and the “City of Temple” of Nepal. Visit several UNESCO-listed heritage sites here.
• Experience a magical sunrise over the Annapurna ranges from the spectacular heights of Poon Hill.
• Relax and refresh yourself in Pokhara after your trek, visit Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, and other major places in Pokhara.
• Explore the rich local Sherpa culture as well as Gurung and Magar culture in Ghorepani
• Stunning view of snow-capped peaks such as Machhapuchre and Dhaulagiri
• The pleasant atmosphere all day around with clear blue skies
• Get to know the people from different countries and different culture and tradition
• Crowded streets with explorers from far off and near
• Cultural exposure and good fellowship with locals
• hot spring bath in Jhinu Danda
• Holidays and festivities with social gatherings along with the village. that comes along the way.

The weather of Annapurna Base Camp in September

There’s nothing more beautiful than the magnificence of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September. The season makes everything look grand and fantastic with majestic background scenes. At an altitude of 4130 meters, Annapurna Base Camp offers wonderful views with clear and fresh air. September is a season where the amount of rainfall is relatively lower than that of the rainy season. September arrives after the monsoon. So, there are three major weather patterns during September.

Post-Monsoon weather

If you are trekking in September in the Annapurna Base Camp trek then you can experience the post-monsoon weather. Post monsoon is during the starting of September. There may be slight rainfall and the trail may get wet and slippery. However, the rainfall is not as heavy as that of the rainy season.

Stable weather

The weather is stable during late September. The monsoon clears out all the dust and dirt making clear and fresh weather for the trek. During this time of the month, the hills and forest look green with the clear blue views of the skies. Also, the panoramic views of all snow-capped mountains are much more visible without any disturbance.

Pre-winter weather

September is the pre-winter weather at the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. During this time, days are warmer and the temperature is mild. However, at night, the weather gets cold and chilly. Therefore, make sure to carry the necessary warm gear for the night while trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in September.

The temperature during Annapurna Base Camp in September

Dragging a maximum crowd from all over the world, September has the most pleasant weather with a reassuring temperature that comforts hikers. However, the temperature during the daytime and nighttime is a huge difference in Annapurna Base Camp Trek. At the base camp, September experienced pre-winter weather. At the base camp, late September is much colder than early September. The temperature during the daytime is mild and warm, but nighttime is very cold over there. The temperature in the Annapurna Base Camp ranges from 8-15 degrees in the daytime but the night ranges from-0. Therefore, carry warm gear and clothes to protect yourself from the extreme cold for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Also, carry some rain-protected gear if necessary.

Accommodations during Annapurna Base Camp in September

September comes under a peak season for trekking to the Nepalese Himalayas. So, if you start trekking in early September, there will be less crowd and more ease in finding the tea houses and lodges for accommodation. There are several options for accommodation in September such as,

1.Hotel/Lodge Accommodation

Several hotels and lodges provide the best accommodation facilities to the trekkers during September. September, being the starting season for the trek to the Himalayas, you will be provided with a tourist-friendly hotel and lodges that suit your budget. Similarly, one can enjoy several luxuries and deluxe hotels and lodges beyond the basic accommodation facilities. With affordable services, the hotels and lodges provide you the facilities like comfortable beds with a pillow, electric blankets, hot and cold showers, free wifi, and many more.

2.Tea house Accommodation

As you trek up to higher altitudes, tea house accommodation will be your shelter. Tea house accommodation is another most popular mode of accommodation, mostly a local form of accommodation that is run by the locals of the Annapurna region. The tea houses are well managed and provide you with all sorts of services and facilities. The teahouse accommodations are not fancy like that of hotels but here you will find warmth and respectful behavior of locals. During September, you will get an opportunity to explore people from several other countries, as it is one of the starting seasons for the trek. The accommodation service in the local teahouse includes a basic wooden bed with a simple mattress, pillow, and a blanket with solar and electric heater shower.

On the other hand, you’ll be provided with a western, attached bathroom with a hot and cold water shower service.

3.Camping Accommodation

In late September, the probability of rainfall is comparatively low. So, if you want to add extra fun and adventure to your journey then you can opt for camping accommodation. As tea houses and judges will be full during this season. So, if you want to have time with your crewmates then camping accommodation is more fun. Late September is suitable for camping accommodation as the weather will be clear and suitable. However, this type of accommodation is mostly done by the climber planning to climb Mt Annapurna. Similarly, it is also done in remote areas and regions where there are very few teahouses and other accommodation facilities. Therefore, for camping accommodation, you need to bring warm clothes as the nights will be much colder.

Meals in Annapurna Base Camp in September

Talking about the food option in the Annapurna base camp trek, you will have various options here. But the number of options gets limited as you trek higher in altitude. The trekkers will have three meals a day during the Base Camp Trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The dinner and breakfast will be served by the teahouse where you stay overnight. The guest houses and tea houses are run by the locals so, they will serve you some local dishes and most of the foods include the flour product. You can also eat some famous international cuisine too. Most of the tea houses have the same menus.

The food menu includes pancakes, fried rice, pasta, yak cheese, beans, Dal Bhat, Momo. Try to have a balanced diet food that can provide you with sufficient energy for the trek. To stay hydrated during the trek it is necessary to drink at least 4- 5 liters of water. Keep your distance from alcohol while you are trekking to a higher altitude. Consuming alcohol can dehydrate your body and increase the risks of altitude sickness. You can also enjoy beverages such as tea, coffee, mineral water, hot lemon, etc.

Why trek Annapurna Base Camp in September?

September is favorable for trekking to the Nepalese Himalayas. It is the starting season for the trek to the Himalayas. The trails start to get busier during early September. Presenting you with an astonishing view of the natural landscapes and entire Himalayan ranges, the base camp to Annapurna is the most popular trek of all.

Favorable Weather

The weather in September is quite favorable for fun, adventure, and trekking. September is the beginning of Autumn and autumn is the chosen season for the trek to the high Himalayas. The weather is beautiful with the hypnotic display of clear blue skies and joyous routes. There may be slight rainfall in early September but the view after the rain is most magnificent. The days are bright and sunny whereas the nights are chilly and cold. September has little or no rainfall and neither heavy snowfall. The average temperature during the day ranges from 20-25 Degree Celsius. Meanwhile, there’s a drop in temperature at night and mornings from 10-15 Degree Celsius.

Exchange of Culture

The Annapurna base camp trek isn’t only about the natural landscapes but also about diverse traditions and cultures. You will pass through several villages where people are living a simpler way of life. You will encounter people with several backgrounds who are wise, calm, and friendly. Most of the people are Tamangs, Gurungs. However, you will also see people of other ethnicities. While trekking through their settlements, you will have chances to interact with them. This way, you can also know about their beautiful traditions, rituals, and cultures. Also, during your trek, you get to interact with other trekkers from different countries and share life stories at the dinner table and lodges.

Season of Festivals

September is a season for celebration in Nepalese society. Various festivals fall in September like Teej, Dashain. etc. September is a time in Nepal with all the big festivals on the doorstep. It’s the moment when the entire country is in a mood for celebration. The whole country will be filled with lights and colors during these festivals. During September, the visitors will get a slight taste of typical Nepalese celebrations and festivals. September not only lets you witness the magnificent view but also offers you the essence of culture and tradition.

Clear mountain view

During their trek to the base camp of the Himalayas, every trekker prefers to have a close view of magnificent peaks without any disturbance or fog. Yes, September is the month when you can enjoy the view brilliantly. September offers trekkers a clear and striking view of the snow-capped peaks. The view is so astonishing that the trekkers want to soak in the beauty of nature. With a very less probability of rainfall, September makes your journey more comfortable and easier. And yes if you are worried about the little rainfall then think about the view after the rainfall. It’s crystal clear and wonderful.

Preparations and Essential Requirements

Trekking to a high altitude is as tough as one may imagine. It takes several days of planning and preparation to get ready for the trek. For the successful completion of the trek, the trekkers need to prepare their bodies well for the rough and tough trail that the true offers. Trekkers need simple preparation before starting a trek to any high altitude.

Physical Preparation

Without physical wellness and preparation, it is almost impossible to trek to a higher altitude. As the base camp of Annapurna lies at an altitude of 4130m your trail will be filled with various ascend and descend. You need to walk for an average of 6-7hours per day through rough trails. And anybody without physical fitness and wellness finds it hard to do so. So, to overcome such problems, maintain your physical stamina by engaging yourself in a light workout at least a month or weeks before the trek. One can start with light workouts such as jogging and gym classes to squats and high planks. Besides, Cycling and walking to remote areas can be helpful as well.

Mental Strength

Considering this trek as a moderate level, many trekkers ignore the mental strength needed for the trek. Like physical strength and stamina, it is equally important that a trekker is as good with the mental strength to put up with the hike. For a higher altitude trek, Altitude sickness becomes a real problem after 2500 meters altitude. You need to be mentally prepared that you may be caught by some of the symptoms of altitude like fatigue, slight headache. At that time don’t panic. Resting for some time makes you healthy and energetic. However, if the symptoms worsen you must stop the trek. Besides, you also need to be prepared to hike for 6-7hours a day without or few great days.

Here is a list of things that you will need on Annapurna Base Camp in September

• Rain Jackets (for early September)
• Undergarment (moisture wicking)
• Hiking shorts and Lightweight trekking pants
• A sunglass with UV protection
• Sunscreen creams and lotions for your face and body (preferably with high SPF)
• Waterproof pants
• Windproof jackets
• A pair of comfortable hiking boots
• Warm socks
• Sandals
• T-shirt (with and/or without sleeves)
• Fleece jackets or pullover
• Down jacket
• Sleeping bags (good quality)
• Trekking Poles (for ascents and descends)
• Headlight
• Basic first aid kit including bandages, some essential medicines, ointments against blisters, sprains, etc
• Refillable water bottle and water purifiers
• A day pack
• Toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste, towel, multipurpose soap, face, and body moisturizer, toilet roll, wet tissue, antibacterial sanitizer gel, or hand wash.

Difficulties of Annapurna Base Camp in September

Wet Trails in Early September

Monsoon ends in August however sometimes, the monsoon continues until September. Generally, the trekkers may experience light rainfall in the first half of September. Due to this, the trekking trail might get slippery and wet and can create difficulty in trekking.

Difficulty in Finding Accommodation in Late September

Autumn is the peak season for trekking in Nepal and September lies in Autumn. Early September is a starting season for trekking so, there will not be many trekkers, and finding accommodation is not that much of a big deal. However, from mid-September, the number of trekkers increases, and lots of tourists from around the world flood to the Annapurna region for trekking at this time. But the number of teahouses en the Annapurna trek route is constant. So, due to limited accommodation options, you might have difficulty finding places to stay.

Colder Nights

The days are warmer in September however the nights are much colder. Temperatures at nightfall below 0 degrees. Most of the tea houses are run by locals, so it is similar to their own houses. Even though they will provide you with a proper blanket and warmth, the rooms in the teahouses do not have proper insulation. So, you might feel cold. Therefore, carrying your sleeping might be proper.

Rugged and Remote Trials

The roads are rugged and remote and if it is your first time trekking into the remote trails, this trek might be slightly difficult for you. The trail is rocky and highly remote. There are lots of ups and downs that you have to do in a single day. Also, stone stairs make most of the trekking trail.

Altitude Sickness

At an altitude above 2500m, there is a chance of altitude sickness. The Base Camp sits at an altitude of 4130 meters, it is very likely that some will suffer from altitude sickness due to sudden temperature changes. As you trek up higher, the level of oxygen decreases causing altitude sickness. Thus, you get ideas on the symptoms, causes, precautions, and preventive measures of altitude sickness.

Travel Tips for Annapurna Base Camp in September

Here are some travel tips for traveling in September,

• Starting early is the major key to a successful trek. If you start early there are low chances of getting hot with bad weather as well as you can fully enjoy the nature and magnificent view of peaks.
• It can rain during early September in the mornings and evenings. So, rainproof gears will help. Also, for the colder nights, you must carry warm gears. Make sure these gears are lightweight and will not add much to your backpack.
• Stay hydrated and stay away from alcohol. As you have to walk for 6-7hours a day on average. So remember to give enough water to your body. Also, stay away from alcohol as you don’t want to slow down the journey.
• Make sure to carry extra hand cash as you will not be finding any ATM services in the upper region.
• Carry a comfortable backpack as you don’t want to add extra weight just by packing unnecessary stuff.

How high is Annapurna Base Camp?

The base camp is at an elevation of 4130 meters which is 13,550 ft high.

How much does it cost for Annapurna Base Camp in September?

The cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September ranges from $1000 to $1200 or it can be even more than that. The cost includes the permit fee to enter the conservation area which costs around $30 for the foreigners. Whereas SAARC nations have to pay just 10$ as a permit fee. The extra cost for the base camp differs depending on the facilities and standard of service. Luxurious hotels and guesthouses often charge high which might cause a hike in the travel package.

What are the effects of extreme altitude?

The altitude sickness starts with the altitude of 2500m where the base camp is at 4130m. Therefore, it is very likely to get altitude sickness but not everyone goes through it. Try to acclimate with the increasing altitude. Sudden change in altitude may lead to altitude sickness. The low level of oxygen at high altitudes usually causes problems like shortness of breath, headache, and dizziness. To avoid such circumstances, try climbing the steep hills slowly above 2500 meters. Also, take a break from smoking and alcohol during the trek.

Is solo trekking possible in September?

September is the starting season for trekking in Nepal. So during early September, the trail may not be much crowded but you can trek solo. There will always be someone to accompany you. You can ask for directions from the locals there. Even though there are not many people in early September, you will eventually find someone with the same destination. Also, during mid and September ber, the trails are often crowded with trekkers. Solo trekking is very much possible during this time. These trails are full of people heading to the same destination. There’s nothing to worry about traveling solo as locals are just around the corner to help you.

Is the trek appropriate for beginners?

Annapurna is not an extremely difficult trek. It is a moderate level trek. Due to its moderate level, trek in September can be achieved even by beginners. However, the beginners should follow a little bit of preparation and planning. Also, precautions must be taken since they are unaware of the routes. To forbid unfortunate incidents, you can take a pro guide with you.

Want to join this spectacular trek? Then here is more detail about the package.