Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Altitude

• Pokhara: 822 meters/2696 feet
• Nayapool: 1,070 meters/3510 feet
• Ulleri: 2,070 meters/6791 feet
• Ghorepani: 2,874 meters/9429 feet
• Chhomrong: 2140 meters/7020 feet
• Sinuwa: 2,360 meters/7742 feet
• Bamboo: 2310 meters/7578 feet
• Himalaya: 2,920 meters/9580 feet
• Deurali: 3,200 meters/10498 feet
• Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC): 3700 meters/12139 feet
• Annapurna Base Camp (ABC): 4,130 meters/13550 feet
• Jhinu Danda: 1780 meters/5840 feet

ABC Weather Information

Weather conditions at Annapurna Base Camp can be unpredictable. Be prepared for anything since weather forecasts might only sometimes be correct.

Pleasant, mild weather is typical in springtime (March to May). During the day, temperatures typically vary between 15°C to 20°C, while at night, they fall to about 5-10°C.

Autumn (September to November) is another suitable season for trekking. It has clear skies and temperatures equal to those of spring, with daytime temperatures between 15-20°C and night temperatures around 5-10°C.

Heavy rains during the monsoon (June-August) make trails muddy and slippery. It is a changeable period, with frequent showers making trekking difficult.

The base camp temperature range during winter (January and February) is typically -15 to -17°C overnight, with daytime highs around 5-10°C. The higher you go, the colder it gets, coupled with their unpredictable nature.

Best Time to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The best times to trek to Annapurna base camp are spring and autumn. Mid-March through May, spring is characterized by good weather and blooming rhododendrons.

Autumn has dry weather and clear skies from September to November. It has always been a perfect season for trekking, as it brings pleasant conditions and impressive views of mountains like Machhapuchhre.

However, it’s important to note that the period from June to August (monsoon season) and December to February (winter) aren’t suitable for a visit. The trails become muddy during the monsoon season, making them difficult to navigate due to slippery surfaces.

During winter, it will be cold with snow, making it challenging to trek because of the risks of avalanches. For optimal experience, plan your trip in spring or fall.

Difficulty of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Many people ask how difficult the Annapurna base camp trek is. The challenging difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderate. It is not difficult, but not easy. People with firm determination and willpower will make it to the base camp. You must walk 5- 6 hours daily and be physically fit. The trail has a gradual ascent and descent, so your legs must be good and fit for it.

If there are steep stairs somewhere, you must be prepared for them. The difficulty level certainly increases in the winter season. Since it snows in the winter, the paths become slippery, and due to the high altitude, it won’t be easy to walk and breathe. It would be best if you had a crampon for the winter season.

Roads on the ABC Trek & How to Avoid

To avoid roads on the circuit to Annapurna Base Camp, consider taking less-travelled trails and paths that are more scenic and less frequented by vehicles. Opt for the Annapurna base camp route, which is more remote and away from the main roads, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and calmness of the Annapurna base camp route.

It’s also advisable to plan your trek during the off-peak season when fewer tourists and vehicles are on the roads. This way, you can enjoy a more peaceful and authentic trekking experience in the stunning Annapurna region.

Trip Grade: Fitness level, Medical, & Health

Fitness Level

To trek to Annapurna Base Camp, one must be fit enough. There will be long ascents and descents, so strong abdominal muscles are important. Though previous experience is optional, those who are physically ready would do better here. The hike is simple enough that even novices can handle it, although you must still be prepared.

Medical

Avoid the trek if you are diabetic or pregnant because these two conditions may worsen. Moreover, you should consult your medical doctor before beginning the trek to determine whether your health condition can allow you to do it.

Health

Make sure that nutrition is good. Eat balanced foods with carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, which provide energy, to help your body recover from this and cope with its requirements appropriately. Get enough rest and sleep for quick recovery and handling the trip’s demands.

Special Training For ABC Trek

No special training is mandatory for the Annapurna base camp hike, but it is advisable to mentally and physically prepare yourself. Resistance and power can also be gained by doing activities such as walking, hiking, or jogging as much as possible.

You can also benefit by taking advantage of the exercise to carry the backpack and thus get used to the weight. Legs, core, and upper body can be strengthened by squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups, which also benefit the human body.

Altitude Sickness During ABC Trek

During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, there is a high chance of altitude sickness. There is no such risk up to Chhomrong and Bamboo, but from Dovan to Deurali, one can be prone to it. The risk increases as the height increases.

The trekkers must carry Diamox or Zolamide to avoid altitude sickness during the trek. Also, after taking these medicines, one must drink enough water—at least 2-3 litres—during the ABC Trek.

Emergency and Evacuation at ABC Trek

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp requires being prepared in an emergency and knowing how to deal with evacuations. Having a first-aid kit and learning how to use it is also essential. Himalayan Masters is available to evacuate to lower elevations or a medical facility in the case of a serious emergency, such as a head injury or severe altitude sickness.

Travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation is a must; insurance will pay for the costs of a helicopter evacuation if it has to be used.

Insurance for ABC Trek

Travel insurance is necessary for the Annapurna Base Camp trek to protect against unexpected events. This insurance can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, and even emergency evacuations. It’s essential to read the policy to understand what is carefully and isn’t covered.

Ensure the insurance covers high-altitude trekking and has provisions for helicopter rescues if necessary, as these can be crucial in remote areas like the Annapurna region. Many insurance providers offer specialized trekking insurance for such adventures, so compare different policies to find one that best suits your needs.

ABC Trekking Experience

Adventure lovers from all over the world love an exciting trek to Annapurna Base Camp. As you walk through the lush forests and terraced lands, admire the stunning snowy mountain peaks. The ABC trekking is not easy, but it is reachable for most people with moderate fitness levels.

Local teahouses provide food and shelter, and local community members contribute to making the experience more enjoyable. The best time to go is spring and autumn for the clear skies. For those who want to experience the Himalayas, it is an adventure of a lifetime.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost

The cost of the Annapurna base camp trek can vary depending on several factors. It can cost between $800 and $1500 per person for a 7—to 14-day trek. This cost typically includes accommodation, meals, permits, and a guide/porter. However, budgeting for additional expenses such as travel insurance, trekking gear, tips, and any extra activities is essential.

The cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek can also vary by season, with peak seasons like spring and autumn being more expensive than the monsoon season. To ensure safety and support during the trek, it’s advisable to book through a reputable trekking agency. Himalayan Masters has a 100% success rate in the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Additional Expenses for ABC Trek

When planning the Annapurna Base Camp trek, it’s essential to consider additional expenses beyond the basic costs. The cost can include permits, accommodation, meals, and equipment. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) cards are mandatory and cost around $40-50.

Accommodation along the trek can vary from $5 to $20 per night, depending on the quality and location. Meals can vary from $5 to $15 per meal, with prices increasing at higher altitudes.

Budgeting around $15-20 per day for these additional Annapurna base camp trek costs is advisable, but carrying extra for emergencies or unexpected expenses is wise. The other extra costs are gear, tips, and extra food you want.

ATM on the ABC Trek Route

If you are trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you must know that ATMs are available only in Pokhara and Kathmandu. No ATMs are on the trek route, so you must bring Nepali currency. Some teahouses might accept mobile banking for Nepali trekkers.

Money Exchange

Nepalese currency is used all over Nepal. Payments can be made in cash, by ATM, or through online payment services like mobile banking in major cities in Nepal.

However, payment by Visa or Mastercard will cost an additional 3.5% charge. So, you are advised to exchange your currency for Nepali currency at one of the money changer booths in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

You will need two permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Firstly, you need TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System). Then, it would help if you had an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). Himalayan Masters will cover and obtain the permits for you. TIMS will cost around $20, and ACAP will cost around $30 per person.

Kit and Equipment for ABC Trekking

Here’s a basic list of kit and equipment for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, categorized for hands, body, gear, foot, and other essentials:

If you want more information on the gear list, check out our blog: What to Pack For Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Hands:

• Lightweight gloves
• Warm, waterproof gloves or mittens for higher altitudes

Body:

• Thermal base layer
• Insulating mid-layer
• Down fleece jacket
• Waterproof and windproof outer layer
• Trekking pants (convertible pants are versatile)
• Innerwear
• Quick-drying t-shirts
• Sun hat or cap
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Scarf for neck protection

Gears:

• Backpack (40-50 liters)
• Sleeping bag (4-season rated for colder temperatures)
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Water bottles or hydration system (2 litres capacity)
• Personal first aid kit with basic medications
• Crampons (for winter)

Foot:

• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
• Hiking socks (synthetic or wool)
• Gaiters (optional but helpful for keeping fragments out of boots)

Other:

• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer
• Snacks and energy bars
• Cash for purchasing items along the way
• Personal toiletries and medications
• Lightweight towel or washcloth
• Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
• Trekking permit and necessary documentation

Accommodation and Food During ABC Trek

On the Annapurna base camp trek, there is nothing to worry about accommodation and food. You will have the best place to stay and the best food. There are no five-star hotels like that on the route, but you will be staying at teahouses. The teahouses have basic packages that include your food and bed.

Teahouses on ABC Trek

A teahouse is a small local house that provides food and accommodation for visitors. During the ABC trek, the teahouse provides a warm bed and blanket and delicious breakfast and dinner.

The blankets provided by the teahouses might not be warm enough, so it is better to carry your own sleeping bag. Himalayan Masters will also provide a complimentary sleeping bag to ensure a good night’s sleep.

The rooms in teahouses are generally shared among 2 to 3 people, with or without an attached bathroom. Teahouses during the trek provide neat and clean rooms with additional services like hot showers, Wi-Fi, electricity, hot water, etc. (sometimes it costs an additional $1 to $5 charge).

Getting a private room might be difficult during the peak trekking season, while during the off-season, teahouses en route ABC are not so overwhelmed. If you want a room for yourself, you can contact us for advance booking.

Some teahouses have stoves for warming the dining room. Some might even have a food menu offering a variety of options.

The water in the teahouses during the ABC trek is usually spring water. You might want to sterilize it by boiling it or using a water purification tablet. You can also buy bottled water.

Foods on ABC Trek

The trekking route to the base camp of Mount Annapurna is popular and well-established. So, teahouses on the trek provide a wide range of food options.

Although there are no star restaurants, the food provided by the teahouses is clean, delicious, and healthy. You can also find traditional local cuisines on the route.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included in the trip package.

Breakfast at the teahouse on the Annapurna trek

• Gurung bread with jam or honey
• Tea and hot water
• Seasonal fruits (if available)
• Omelette with onion, tomato, and chilly
• Sometimes, a hot porridge with milk

Lunch at the teahouse on the Annapurna trek

• Dal Bhat and veg and non-veg curry
• Tea made of yak milk
• Noodles
• Soup

Dinner at the teahouse on the Annapurna trek

• Verities of soup (garlic soup, veg and non-veg soup)
• Dal Bhat and veg and non-veg curry
• Fry rice
• Momo
• Rice pudding (if available)
• Spaghetti
• Tibetan bread

Electricity & Battery Recharge on ABC Trek

Planning for electricity, battery recharge, and access to water is essential during your trek. While Annapurna base camp hike in Nepal, especially in remote areas, electricity availability can be limited.

Carrying portable chargers or power banks is advisable to keep electronic devices powered up. Additionally, many tea houses along the trekking routes offer charging facilities for a fee.

Moreover, it’s worth noting that accommodations, such as guesthouses or tea houses, may have limited charging options. For example, in Sinuwa, you won’t find plugs and chargers in your room. Instead, these facilities are usually available in common areas, such as the kitchen, and are shared among all trekkers.

Therefore, it’s wise to plan your device charging accordingly, considering the availability of charging points and the needs of other trekkers.

Water During ABC Trek

Staying hydrated throughout your trek is essential. Carrying a reusable water bottle and purifying tablets or a filtration system can help ensure access to safe drinking water. Himalayan Masters will provide complimentary water purification tablets.

Communication on the ABC Trail

Usually, the teahouses on the ABC trail have Wi-Fi and cellular access. However, they might be very slow due to bad weather or connecting several devices to the Wi-Fi.

So, we suggest you buy an NTC or NCELL SIM, activate data packages, and surf faster internet. You can buy it at the airport or any shop that sells SIM cards.

Safety and Security in ABC Trek

Nepal is a safe travel destination. However, it is always wise to check the latest update if there is anything going on. Theft is rare during the trek, though it happens. You can leave your valuable belongings that are not required on the ABC trek in our office or at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Once you are on a trekking journey, follow the instructions from your guide in case of any emergencies. It is seldom but avalanches, flood, landslides, earthquake, etc. can occur anytime.

Likewise, altitude sickness is common at higher-altitude treks such as the ABC trek. In such a case, inform your guide and follow the safety measures.

Porters Versus No Porter on the ABC Trek

ABC Trek might not be a long trek like Three Passes Trek or ABC with Circuit Trek, but trekking for 8 days with your own pack might be strenuous. In such a case, hiring a porter could be a wise decision.

Hiring a porter is not included in the trek price, but it can help you avoid carrying a heavy load and enjoy the scenery more. Also, if you have a load under 10 kg, you can even share the porter with fellow trekkers on the same route.

Remember, you’ll still need to carry a day pack weighing around 3 to 4 kg.

Tips on Hiring a Porter for ABC Trek

• Each porter can carry a maximum of 20 kg per client. But, the less the load, the better it is. We will provide a duffle bag that is specially made for the porters to carry.
• You can share a porter with fellow trekkers if you have less weight, under 10 kg.
• As the porters will walk faster than you and meet at the overnight spot, so you need to carry a day pack.
• When you hire him as a porter, you are directly benefiting his family and the rest of his society.

Tipping the Guide and Porter after completing ABC Trek

Your guide and porter have done their best to ensure that you enjoy the trip and have minimal stress. I encourage you to tip them as a sign of appreciation for the job well done. Most importantly, all of the tips you give go directly to them. There is nothing we remove from our guides or porters.

The rate is to pay a 10% commission on your trip as a guide. Porters are paid on a daily basis. As I pointed out earlier, within the context of sharing a porter, the tip can equally be split. It’s good to give more at times, of course!

Alternative Trekking Routes for ABC Trek

Yes, there are many alternative routes for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. You can choose a suitable route according to the days you want to trek and your budget. The most famous routes are:

Route 1: Kathmandu- Pokhara- Nayapul- Jhinu Danda- Chhomrong- Sinuwa- Bamboo- Dovan – Deurali- MBC- ABC

You can return from the same Annapurna base camp route.

Route 2: Kathmandu- Pokhara- Ghandruk – Chhomrong- Sinuwa- Bamboo- Dovan- Deurali – MBC- ABC

This route takes you through Ghandruk village, which is very popular for its Gurung Village. It is one of the most beautiful and biggest Gurung villages.

You can also choose the Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour with Himalayan Masters. This tour suits those who want to travel to the base camp quickly or may have physical problems trekking.

Annapurna Base Camp Yoga Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Yoga Trek is a unique trekking experience amid a beautiful view of forests, fields, pastures, mountains, and a small village.

During the yoga trek, you will start your day with a short yoga session to stretch and relax your body. Then, in the evening, we will find a serene spot for you to relieve your stress and tiredness with yoga.

ABC yoga trek lets your body rest and feel refreshed with a peaceful environment and excellent views.

Extending Staycation in Nepal

Extending Your ABC Trek

Your ABC trek can be extended by one or two days. Instead of returning to Pokhara from Jhinu Danda by vehicle, you can trek up to Phedi. The route passes through the beautiful villages of Landruk, Tolka, Kande, and Dhampus.

Extending your stay in other parts of Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful country with diverse geography, ecosystem, culture, and people. There are several famous places in Kathmandu, Pokhara and several other places in Nepal.

If you are short on time, we recommend that you can visit around Kathmandu, Pokhara or the Chitwan National Park before or after the trek.

If you have enough days to spend more time in Nepal, then you can visit other destinations like Palpa and visit Rani Mahal. Likewise, you can also go to Rara Lake, Gosaikunda Lake, or Tilicho Lake to witness the excellent view and lake. Similarly, Gorkha, Lumbini, and Janakpur are some of the historical and cultural destinations that you can visit.

Bardiya National Park is another popular tour destination for witnessing rich flora and fauna. The National Park is home to rare species of tiger, over 600 species of animals, around 400 species of resident and migratory birds, over 100 species of fish, and around 850 species of plants.

We can organize a Nepal tour along with a professional licensed tour guide if you would like to extend your vacation in Nepal.

Side Trip with Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a long journey in the Himalayas of Nepal. This trek can take up to 23-25 days. If you have enough time and want to go on an exciting and challenging trek, then this might be the best option for you.

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Base Camp Trek offers almost everything that the Annapurna region has to offer. You can reach the base camp of the world’s 10th-highest mountain, Annapurna I. You can enjoy the traditional villages and alluring mountain view and their surroundings.

Although the journey might be long and exhausting, it is going to be an experience of a lifetime.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Mardi Himal Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Mardi Himal Trek is going to be 14-16 days itinerary. On this trek, you can visit almost all the highlight villages and viewpoints in the vicinity of Annapurna Mountain.

You can visit Ghorepani Poon Hill for witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise view rising from the Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft). Also, you can visit and stay in one of the best Gurung Villages, Ghandruk, where you can enjoy their warm hospitality, tradition, and food.

Then there is the Mardi Himal Trek, which takes you to the base of Mardi Himal (5553 m/18,218.5 ft). You can see an up-close view of Fishtail and Mardi Himal. A view of rhododendron and oak forest during blooming season is a serene experience.

How to Book Annapurna Base Camp Trip

Himalayan Masters is a Nepal government-registered adventure and travel company. We are dedicated to helping you reach your destination with utmost safety and comfort. Our professional guides, porters, and entire team are here to support you on your journey in the Himalayas.

To book the ABC trek, you can contact Himalayan Masters via message, WhatsApp call, email at [email protected], or fill out our contact form. We will then prepare a trip package according to your requirements or the best we can manage.

We will provide guides, porters, permits, and some souvenirs from the agency.

How can I book an ABC trip at the last minute?

If you are short on time and immediately want to set out on the journey, you can book an ABC trip at the last minute by directly contacting the agency. You can contact us through any of our available online platforms or directly visit the office at Saat Ghumti Marg 3, Thamel, Kathmandu.

However, keep in mind that you must contact us at least a day before the trek so that we can provide you with a guide, a porter, and all the information regarding the trip. You will also need to pay the full amount before starting the trek.

Group Size for ABC Trek

The regular trekking group size is maximum of 7 people, although it can be solo or a couple. If you would like a customized private trek, contact us.

Trekking with a group enhances your trekking journey. You can share your experiences with fellow trekkers in the evening over a cup of tea and sometimes a bonfire.

Himalayan Masters provides a senior guide and an assistant guide for larger groups. For groups of 5 individuals, we provide a senior guide. However, you can hire an additional guide if you would like to.

Why Choose Himalayan Masters?

With Himalayan Masters, you trek with highly experienced guides who know the place properly. They provide more than trail knowledge and ensure safety, enjoyment, and a lifetime experience on any trip.

Booking and Airport Pickup

Himalayan Masters provides dedicated support to make your booking easy and stress-free. They will help you choose the perfect itinerary for trekking according to your preferences and fitness level. Arrival airport transfer and hotel transfer in Kathmandu on arrival by a representative.

Support Team

Experienced guides and porters will help you every step of the way during your trek to Annapurna Base Camp. These professionals know the route, weather, and local culture to ensure safety and comfort.

Starting and Ending Point

The starting point and ending point of the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Himalayan Masters is Pokhara. If we talk about the trekking point, the ending point is Jhinu Danda.

Customize the ABC Trek 

With Himalayan Masters, you can also customize the ABC trek. This option is suitable for people who do not have enough time to explore the region fully. We do have a 5-day ABC Itinerary that is made for people who have limited time to travel in Nepal.

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and Trek to Chhomrong

Day 2: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya

Day 3: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

Day 4: Trek from ABC to Bamboo

Day 5: Trek from Sinuwa to Jhinu Hot Spring and drive to Pokhara

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