How is Network and Internet on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a complete package for both beginner and seasoned trekkers. It offers some of the greatest views of the world’s 10th-highest mountain, Mount Annapurna (8091 m/26,454 ft). Additionally, trekkers can enjoy the Annapurna region’s warm, welcoming hospitality and experience their culture and lifestyle. In addition, staying connected to the Annapurna Base Camp trek network and internet is equally feasible.

Trekkers can get good internet and network connectivity. However, as you ascend to a higher Annapurna elevation, the connectivity gets weaker.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek network and internet connections could be disturbed due to weather and location. Additionally, bandwidth also gets weaker with the number of connected devices.

We, Himalayan Masters, recommend you forget about the internet and all and try to enjoy the serene beauty of the Annapurna region. Nevertheless, if you want to stay connected, smart preparation can be helpful to stay connected with your loved ones or share your journey in real-time.

Here’s everything you need to know about the network and internet on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route.

Mobile Network Coverage on ABC Trek

NTC (Nepal Telecom) and NCELL are major network providers on the ABC Trek route. They offer connectivity throughout the trail, but the signal strength gets weaker with an increase in altitude.

Network in Lower Altitudes (Pokhara to Ghorepani)

In the lower regions, like Pokhara, Nayapul, and Ghorepani, NTC and NCELL both provide good network strength with 4G coverage. You can call, send messages, and even surf the internet without any issues. However, black spots are found in dense forests and deep valleys.

Mobile Network in Mid to High Altitudes (Machhapuchhre Base Camp to ABC)

Further, beyond Chhomrong, the signal is less good. NTC provides a good signal in almost all villages, like Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Deurali. However, NCELL signals are not consistent and almost non-existent in these areas. Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) sees a poor network and is often unreliable.

Mobile Network in Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

Even at Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m/13,550 ft), a mobile network is available, though it might be disturbed due to ABC weather conditions. NTC SIM cards can be used to make phone calls and even make internet calls, but NCELL doesn’t work here.

We recommend that the loved ones be informed in advance since there is extremely poor communication.

Internet/Wi-Fi on ABC Trek

Internet on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is available but limited. Over the past decade, the internet/Wi-Fi facility in the Annapurna Base Camp route has improved dramatically. You can stay connected on almost all the trek routes. Moreover, it might not be available due to electricity outages and harsh weather conditions.

Here’s what you need to know:

Teahouses with Wi-Fi

The majority of the teahouses along the trek offer Wi-Fi services, especially in villages at lower elevations like Ghorepani and Chhomrong. The speed is slow, however, and only suitable for basic activities like sending messages or emails. The higher you ascend, the less common and expensive Wi-Fi services are.

Cost of Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi in teahouses is usually not free. You’ll need to purchase Wi-Fi, which costs around $2-5 per hour, depending on the location. At higher altitudes, the cost increases, and the connection quality decreases. Some teahouses may offer free Wi-Fi for guests, but this is rare and often limited to a specific time frame.

Moreover, the internet is free of cost in hotels in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Best Spots for Internet Access

If you must get online, teahouses in Ghorepani, Chhomrong, and Bamboo have the best Wi-Fi. The internet quality decreases after Sinuwa, with very slow speeds at MBC and ABC.

If you take an alternative route to Ghandruk Village, you can find a good quality Annapurna Base Camp Trek network and internet.

Alternative Ways to Stay Connected on the ABC Trek

If mobile networks and Wi-Fi aren’t reliable enough, there are other ways to stay connected while trekking in the Annapurna region.

Satellite Internet Services

Some high-end lodges and expedition groups use satellite internet services. While expensive, it provides a stable connection in areas where mobile networks fail.

Walkie-Talkies and Radios

For group communication, especially for trekkers traveling in teams, walkie-talkies and radios can be a great alternative.

Local Communication at Teahouses

Most teahouses have landline phones, which can be used for emergency calls. These are often connected via satellite and charge a high fee per minute.

Emergency Communication Services

Some trekking agencies provide emergency communication devices, such as Garmin inReach or SPOT trackers, allowing trekkers to send emergency messages via satellite.

Charging and Power Backup on the ABC Trek

Staying connected also depends on having enough battery life for your devices. Power availability is limited in the Himalayas, and charging options can be costly.

Also, there are frequent electricity outages. So, it is better to have a backup to compensate for this.

Availability of Charging Ports

Teahouses along the ABC trek offer charging facilities but may charge an extra fee per hour or per device. In higher altitudes, power comes from solar panels, making it unreliable in cloudy weather.

Cost of Charging Devices

Charging fees range from NPR 200-500 ($1.5-$4) per device in lower regions, while at ABC, the cost may go up to NPR 1000 ($8) for a full charge.

Best Practices for Power Management

• Carry a high-capacity power bank (at least 20,000mAh).
• Use your phone in battery-saver mode or turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data when you are not using it to conserve battery.
• Turn off background apps and location services when not in use.
• Bring a solar charger for sustainable power backup.

Best SIM Cards for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Choosing the right local SIM card is crucial for better coverage if you plan to use mobile data.

NTC vs. NCELL: Which One is Better?

• NTC (Nepal Telecom): Provides better coverage in remote areas, including ABC.
• NCELL: Works well in cities and lower altitudes but loses coverage above Chhomrong.

Where to Buy a SIM Card

You can purchase NTC and NCELL SIM cards after landing at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, or local stores in Pokhara. Ensure you have a passport and a passport-sized photo for registration.

Recommended Data Packages

For a one-week trek, a 5GB or 10GB data pack should be sufficient for light internet use and messaging. Always activate the package before heading into the mountains to avoid connectivity issues.

Tips for Staying Connected on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Staying connected during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek network and internet experience requires some planning. Here are some practical tips to help you stay connected:

Buy a Local SIM Card

You can buy a local SIM card from NCELL or Nepal Telecom in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These providers offer affordable data packages and better coverage in lower altitudes.

Use Data Sparingly

Mobile data is your best bet for staying connected but use it sparingly. Save data-heavy tasks like uploading photos or videos for when you’re in areas with better coverage.

Preload Maps and Information or Download Offline Apps

Download offline maps, trekking guides, and other essential information before starting the trek. Apps like Maps.me and Google Maps allow offline navigation.

Keep a Power Bank

As the source of electricity in Annapurna teahouses is solar energy, especially at higher elevations, charging your devices can be expensive. Carry a high-capacity power bank to keep your phone and other gadgets charged.

Learn About Network Coverage Areas

Familiarize yourself with areas that have better network coverage. Plan your communication accordingly, such as sending updates when you’re in villages with stable signals.

Use Satellite Phones for Urgent Communications

Try to embrace nature to its fullest. However, if you must stay connected, consider renting a satellite phone. While expensive, it ensures reliable communication in remote areas.

Inform Loved Ones About Communication Gaps

Let your family and friends know that you may not be able to communicate regularly, especially at higher altitudes. This will help them avoid unnecessary worry.