Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December What to Expect and How to Prepare

Introduction

ABC trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a dream station for every trekkers where the dream of catching the glimpse and touching the Peak of Annapurna Mountain will come true. For trekkers Annapurna base camp trek is the dream destination because of the beauty and the history the Annapurna Mountain holds.

Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the most famous treks in world as most of the trekkers prefers this destination. The roads, villages and scenery are the major highlights of this destination but the most eye catching part of this base camp is when the morning and evening sunlight hits the mountain caps.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the Nepal’s most iconic trekking adventure destination because it is the base of world’s tenth highest peak which also offers the breath taking views of landscapes, mountains, villages, lakes and forests.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December is one of the iconic trek because of the temperature and potential snowfall. December is one of the coldest season so the chances of experiencing snowfall is high. You will be able to experience the cold temperature in Himalayas as well as the glaciers. Annapurna Base camp Trek in December helps you to experience clear skies, snow covered peaks without crowd interruption. During December there are chances of having fewer Crowds.

The main purpose of this blog is to help trekkers know more about Annapurna base camp trek in December. To let the trekkers know how is it risky and what are the things that you should consider while visiting Annapurna Base Camp trek in December. What are the things you should expect so that you as a costumer can live up to your expectations and at last what should you prepare while visiting Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December?

If you are planning to trek in Annapurna Base camp then December is best month to experience your trekking journey. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December will set a footprint in your memories.

Weather Conditions in December

December is one of the coldest month. December month is well known for winter holidays. During December the temperature of Nepal fall down from 17 degree Celsius to 7 degrees but the temperature in region Himalayan falls down to subzero degree Celsius.

The weather in the Annapurna region in December is cold and typically dry, the snowfall is occasional especially in the higher altitude. During day time temperature of lowest part of the region around 1000 meters is at the range of 5 to 15 degree Celsius or 41 to 59 degree Fahrenheit. During night time the temperature is around -10 degree Celsius or even -20 degree Celsius.

During daytime the weather is crisp and sunny, and in night time is cold to freezing cold especially above 3000m.

You can expect snow and icy trails near ABC Annapurna Base Camp due to the high influence of cold weather.  For the trekkers it is important to check daily weather forecasts and being flexible because the temperature of the weather is unpredictable.

Therefore Annapurna Base Camp trek in December is best for the people who wants to experience the adventure. The scenery that you will be able to acknowledge in Annapurna Base Camp trek in December is phenomenal. You should monitor the weather conditions mainly for Manang and Thorong La Pass as the condition change rapidly.

Highlights of Trekking ABC in December

Annapurna base camp trek in December will allow you to experience the natural beauty of Annapurna region and breathe taking views of mountains.

You will be able to acknowledge the clear views of the mountains like Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli and Gangapurna. The winter landscapes are beautiful, with snow covered peaks and soft atmosphere.

The trails aren’t as crowded during December so you will be able to find peaceful trails with fewer trekkers. Due to less trekkers you will be able to have more intimate and serene experience with the nature.

Have you ever seen a beautiful picture of a landscape and thought is this place even real? And felt jealous when you realize that place is real and you haven’t visited it yet so don’t worry Annapurna base camp trek in December will allow you to see the beauty of snow covered landscapes at the higher altitude that feels too good to be true and perfect for photography.

You will have a cozy teahouse evenings with hot meal and firewood stoves with your beloved or even a strangers who are ready to bind with you near the laps of himalays.

The major highlights of Annapurna base camp trekking in December is breathe taking views of mountains, snowfall, cozy tree houses and beautiful landscapes which are perfect for photography.

Challenges to Consider

Mountain region trails are slippery during winter seasons so trekking will be riskier to the trekkers. The chances of you getting better medical treatment is also likely impossible due to lack of hospitals.

The major challenge of Annapurna base camp trek in December is its temperature. It’s risky for those who can’t tolerate the cold temperature. As the temperature in Annapurna base camp at night is -10 degree Celsius. Because of the cold temperature the air pressure will be low causing lack of oxygen and one can fall unconscious.

There is high chances of snow falls and icy trails that may slow your pace. The daylight hours are shorter so you have to start your trek early and on the cold weather it is impose to start your day early.

Some lodges may be closed at higher elevations so you have to plan accordingly.Therefore the main challenges of Annapurna base camp trek in December is the temperature, accommodation and trails.

Packing Essentials for December

The basic things you need to pack to trek in Annapurna region are warm layers of clothes including waterproof jackets, hot gloves, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun and wind.

Warmed layer clothing: major things you need in warmed layer clothing are base layer, insulated jackets down jacket, thermals so you could be protected from heavy winds.

Water proof boots: These types of boots will help you to maintain your grip in slippery mountain trails. It is very essential to have a grip on the trails so that your life won’t be at a risk.

Gloves, beanie, neck gaiter and sunglasses to protect yourself from potential cold and high sunrays. Sleeping bags that are rated for subzero temperatures. Lastly Trekking poles and micro spikes which are optional but might be helpful.

Therefore these are the things you should consider bringing while travelling to Annapurna base camp trek in December.

Accommodation and Food

Tree houses along the trails will provide you basic accommodation where the facilities are limited. The facilities are less than the one you get in the cities. Tree houses are mostly available in lower and mid altitude ranges. Those tree houses are open in the most lower and mid altitude areas but the availability are limited.

The meals that are available in Annapurna base camp are hot meals like Daal Bhat, Soups, Momo, noodles and etc. Since the availability of the resources are less. Availability of hot showers and charging might be limited above Chhomorong.

Trekkers have to carry snacks and a thermos on their own because the availability of the hotels and tree houses are nearly limited. Tree houses might provide you with twin beds, matters, pillow and warm blankets. You have to keep this in your mind while considering Annapurna base camp trek in December.

Trekking Route Options

Annapurna base camp is a trek with in the mountain ranges of central Nepal. The typical routes while travelling to Annapurna Base camp trek is Nayapul to Ghandruk to Chhomrong to Himalaya to ABC and back. The optional add ons routes are Jhinu Danda for hot spring, and Poon Hill for the better sunrise view.

This whole trek will take at least 7 to 10 days depending on pace and weather. Annapurna base camp trek in December is challenging so the days to finish your journey will take maximum amount of time then other seasons.

Safety Tips for Winter Trekking

You should beware of the potential for snow and ice and be prepared for delays due to the weather conditions as it changes drastically. Before setting out you must always check trail condition as it is risker part of the whole trek. You should travel with the experienced and licensed guide especially in the winter season.

You should always stay hydrated and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. If you suffer from altitude sickness then avoid going to the high places. You should have a flexible itinerary in case of weather delays.

Always carry first aid kid and headlamp for emergency. Since the medical options are limited. You should always prioritize your health first.

Why Trek in ABC in December

You should consider Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December as you will be able to enjoy breathe taking scenery with snow covered mountains, clear skies. Nature will be ideal for photographers and solitude seekers. Every side of the nature feels like artistic frame which looks too good to be true.

You can take advantage of the natural beauty and start your blogging journey to, natural beauty always attract the audience from the screen or in person. Are you ready to take advantage of the nature and experience the natural beauty of Annapurna region?

Trekkers will witness breathe taking winter beauty without peak season crowd, in winter season the trekking place is not overly crowded. The winter landscapes are more beautiful in winter season a trekker will able to see the beauty without any distraction.

Though there are lots of ups and down in Annapurna base camp trek in December you will get to learn and experience a lot. You should challenge yourself and enjoy a true winter Himalayan adventure.

Conclusion

While December is cold it’s extremely rewarding. You will have remarkable time in Annapurna base camp trek in December. With the right preparation, gear, and mindset you will have a safe and rewarding journey.

If you have time, consider visiting the historical Muktinath Temple, a sacred place for both Hindus, and Buddhists, located near the base of Thorung La Pass. The landscapes you will acknowledge in December is beautiful with snow covered peaks and tranquil atmosphere.

December is quieter time for trekking so the crowd will be lesser compared to the peak season. Rather than that you should be aware of the potential snow and ice and be prepared with for delays due to the weather conditions. Monitoring weather conditions are important especially for Manang and Thorong La Pass as condition changes rapidly. Consider the altitude and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness which is crucial for Annapurna Base camp trek in December.

Tea houses along the trails will provide you with basic facilities such as twin beds, mattresses, pillows warm blankets and warm foods. The facilities are not like cities but their efforts and hospitality is more than the luxurious hotels. You can always make more from less.

Annapurna is very popular and best destination for the trekkers who loves scenery, adventure and photography. Every nature feels like the artistic frame that will bow your mind. Annapurna base camp trek in December feels like a dream to every trekkers as it offers facilities as natural beauty. This base camp will make your pain flow with the altitude of the wind. The more the experience is hard the more you will enjoy your adventure.

Meeting up to your own expectation is nearly hard but it’s not impossible. Pack your bags and get ready to be lost in between the laps of mountains and snow .One you craves the natural beauty you should visit Annapurna Base camp trek in December. So plan your Annapurna Base camp trek with an experienced guide or tour operator for smooth winter adventure!