Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 7 Days

ABC Trek Travel Info

Points of Attractions in Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp is another popular trekking destination after Everest Base Camp. The trek has received its popularity because of beautiful mountain views, a natural hot spring, diverse flora and fauna, and the traditional villages. You can also experience the unique blend of culture and nature here with this adventure. Here is a brief explanation of the major attraction of Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Natural Hot Spring

A natural hot spring lies on your way to Annapurna base camp. It is located in the small hamlet called Jhinu, the last stop of your trek. Jhinu lies at an approximate distance of 14 kilometers from Nayapul. This village resides right next to the Modi River which originates from the Annapurna mountains. At the entrance of the village right next to the river is a small pond where natural hot water emerges from below. This hot spring is believed to cure many health-related issues. Also, it serves as a relaxation point for trekkers who return from their multiple days of strenuous trek.

Annapurna Conservation Area

Annapurna Conservation Area Project is a protective initiative by the government of Nepal. The biodiversity of the Annapurna region located in the Kaski, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Parbat districts is protected under this project. This project was initiated in 1986 and has since been protecting the natural enriches of the area. The dense forests, flat lands of Mustang and Manang, High mountains, Semi-arid terrain, Raging white rivers, enriched fauna, and distinct culture of the locals are preserved by ACAP. You will need an ACAP permit for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp. Permits usually range from $30 for foreigners and $10 for SAARC nationals.

Annapurna Massifs

Annapurna Mountains which rise as high as 8091 meters are a series of high mountains located in western Nepal. The trek to ABC pierces through the base of these high mountains. From far away, these mountains seem astonishing. The peaks rise high and are shimmering with snow for most of the year. On your traverse to Annapurna Base camp, you will traverse to the middle of these gigantic mountains. The prominent peaks as seen during ABC trek are Annapurna I (8,091 meters / 26,545 feet), Annapurna South (7,219 meters / 23,684 feet), Hiunchuli (6,441 meters / 21,132 feet), Machapuchare (6,993 meters / 22,943 feet), Gangapurna (7,455 meters / 24,457 feet)and Baraha Shikhar, Glacier Dom etc.

Gurung Villages: Ghandruk and Chhomrong

The trail leading to Annapurna Base Camp and most of Annapurna region is inhabited by Gurungs. The people from Gurung communities have a rich cultural heritage, distinctive traditions, and a long history deeply intertwined with the Himalayan landscape they call home. These groups of people are scattered all along the trail. The majority of Gurung people follow Tibetan Buddhism and have distinct cultural practices. For most of the trek, you will be residing in teahouses run by these groups of people. You will fully immerse in their culture and walk of life during your trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost

If you are planning on trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, then our package costs start from USD 499 per person for a 7-day adventure. At a current discounted rate, we are offering this package at 445 per person. If you are in a group of 2 to 4, you are estimated to pay the same amount, which is USD 499 per person.

However, if your group size increases to 5 or 9, you will get the package cost at a decreased cost of USD 425 per person. Are you in a group of more than 10? You can then further enjoy the 7-day Annapurna Base Camp at USD 399 per person. If you are looking to decrease the cost of overall adventure, definitely consider traveling in a group.

Elevation of Annapurna Base Camp

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is located at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) above the sea level. The level of altitude involved make it a high-altitude trekking destination. However, it is not as extreme as the other Himalayas Base Camp like Everest Base Camp. This high elevation offer you with the panoramic views of peaks like Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for trekkers.

The altitude requires careful acclimatization, especially for those unaccustomed to high altitudes. To prevent altitude sickness, you should ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and take proper acclimatization breaks during the trek. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at this elevation is a rewarding experience, allowing you to witness some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the world.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Duration

The duration of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek typically ranges from 7 to 12 days, depending on the route you choose and your trekking pace. A standard itinerary for the trek takes about 7 to 9 days, starting from Nayapul or Ghandruk and passing through scenic villages like Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or additional acclimatization days, the trek can take closer to 10 to 12 days.

Shorter options, like the 7-day trek, are ideal for trekkers with limited time but require a higher level of fitness and longer trekking hours each day. On the other hand, longer itineraries allow you to enjoy the journey at a slower pace. You can soak in the beauty of the Annapurna region and experiencing local culture in more depth. Regardless of the duration, proper planning and preparation will ensure you make the most of this breathtaking Himalayan adventure.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek

Are you confused about ABC or EBC? Here is a difference between these trekking adventures which can be beneficial for you to choose any of the next trekking destinations:

Alternative Trekking Route for Annapurna Base Camp

If you are looking for an alternative route to reach the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, then you will get multiple options. Each of the routes offers you different experiences and challenges. One of the most popular options includes the Ghandruk one, which we will include in our itinerary. Another popular route is via Poon Hill. With this route, you can witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.

Also, if you have any other preferences, you can definitely consult us. Based on your preferences and time, you can customize your trekking itinerary. Both the route: Ghandruk and Poon Hill, offer a less crowded experience compared to the direct route, especially during peak trekking seasons. No matter which trekking route you choose, a traditional or alternative route, you can witness the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, dense forests, and terraced fields, making all the challenges worth tackling.

Can Beginners Trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

Yes, a beginner can do Annapurna Base Camp Trek with proper preparation and planning. As you will be walking for 6 to 7 hours in uphill and downhill sections, it is very important for you to have a good physical fitness level. If you are a beginner, you can focus on increasing your physical fitness through some cardiovascular exercise and strength training. Being mentally ready for the journey is also equally important as being physically fit.

As a beginner, you should pace yourself, stay hydrated, and take acclimatization days seriously to prevent High altitude sickness. The overall combination of well-marked trails, friendly people, and welcoming teahouses make this trekking adventure beginner-friendly. Also, to enhance your safety as a beginner, we recommend you hire a guide or porter. With determination and proper preparation, Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be a rewarding first trekking experience.

Is ABC trek Best In Annapurna Region?

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is often considered one of the best treks in the Annapurna Region. This is due to its diverse landscapes and breathtaking mountain views. The trek will take you through lush rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and terraced farmlands. With an adventure of about 7 to 8 days, you will reach the majestic Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks.

This trek not only offers you scenic beauty but also offers a chance for cultural immersion, making it a top choice among trekkers. In addition to that, this trek is also one of the easy trekking adventures in the Annapurna region, with shorter days and well-marked trails. With the combination of all these factors, the ABC trek is the top trekking destination in the region, attracting over 1000 trekkers every year.

However, the "best" trek depends on your preferences and trekking goals. While ABC offers a relatively short and direct route to experience the Himalayas, other treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Mardi Himal Trek provide different experiences, such as crossing high-altitude passes or exploring less-crowded trails. For many, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an unbeatable blend of adventure and accessibility in the Annapurna Region.

Challenges of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Considering the terrain, landscape, accessibility, and modern sophistication, the Annapurna base Camp trek is moderately challenging. This trek takes on the highlands located next to the Annapurna range mountains. The trail is properly paved and marked with signage all over. Modern tea houses provide basic accommodation and food facilities.

That being said, the difficulty of Annapurna Base Camp Trek is strenuous once you cross Deurali. The elevation gain crosses the mark of 4000 meters above Deurali. You are likely to have Acute Mountain sickness(AMS) during this stretch. Also, right after you cross Deurali, there are multiple landslide areas where rocks fall from above. Apart from this, there are a limited number of teahouses after this stretch which can make accommodation an issue. Especially during the peak seasons of Spring and Autumn, there are hordes of tourists headed for the base camp. It is advised to book your rooms in advance from a reliable trekking company.

Wifi and Internal Access During Annapurna base camp Trek

During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will find Wi-Fi and internet access at most tea houses along the route. However, the speed and reliability of the connection can vary depending on the location. In lower-altitude areas like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, the internet tends to work better compared to higher altitudes. You may need to pay a small fee for Wi-Fi usage, and the cost usually increases as you go higher.

It is always a good idea to manage your expectations about connectivity in remote areas. To stay connected throughout the trek, you can also purchase a local SIM card like NTC or Ncell with data packages. These networks work well in some parts of the Annapurna region but may have limited coverage in higher altitudes. Carrying a power bank is essential, as charging facilities are limited and often come with an extra fee.

What Can You Expect During Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, you can expect to witness the 10th highest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8,091m), alongside Machhapuchhre (6,993m) and Hiunchuli (6,441m). You can witness the beautiful sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas every morning and evening, which is definitely mesmerizing. You can also experience the unique culture and tradition of the Gurung and Magar people inspired by Tibetan Buddhism. People here are friendly and make you feel at home.

Throughout the journey, you will be staying in teahouses and family hotels. They offer you with basic amenities and a warm atmosphere. Although there are some perks of this trekking adventure, climbing the Himalayas can definitely come with some challenges. Featuring a variety of landscapes, with this adventure, you will be climbing over 4,000 meters, which can be quite a hassle. With a moderate level of challenges involved, this trek is perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Choosing the Right Season for Your Annapurna Base Camp

Spring from March to May and Autumn from September to December are the two best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These seasons offer you clear skies, stable weather, and mild temperatures, making a perfect time for adventure towards the Annapurna region. Aside from these two seasons, we do not recommend you trek during summer from June to August and winter from December to February. Here is a brief of each season:

Spring (March to May)

This season is considered to be the ideal season for your trek to Annapurna Base Camp. Throughout this season, you will get a warmer temperature, and the chances of getting rainfall are also low. Besides, this season brings blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, adding vibrant colors to landscapes., However, during the peak season, you can encounter more crowds, and finding the right accommodation can be a hassle.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is not a favorable season for trekking. As the summer brings monsoon seasons, you will get heavy rainfall, which can make the trail slippery and hard to navigate. Furthermore, continuous rain can cause landslides, which can also be life-threatening. However, in this season, you will get lush forests, making the landscapes attractive. Not being the popular season, you will have fewer or no crowds if you trek during the summer season.

Autumn (September to November)

Another best season after summer is Autumn. This time of the year is more popular compared to spring. You will get clear skies and beautiful mountain views. Also, the two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain, and Tihar, fall during this season, enchanting your cultural experiences. Trekking in Autumn is best for you in term of safety concerns too. However, be prepared for crowding and make sure you book your accommodation earlier to secure the place to stay.

Winter (December to February)

It is not a popular season for trekking, but this season is perfect if you want to experience the landscape covered with snow. You will get continuous snowfall during the winter, making the temperature go below -10 degrees. The extreme cold may not be a cup of tea for everyone. If you have some proper trekking experience and have a guide with you, you can definitely consider trekking in the winter season. Make sure you are prepared well and have a guide with you, as you can find difficulties in navigating the ways.

Meals and Accommodation During Annapurna base camp Trek

The most common means of accommodation in the ABC trek is teahouses, Which are more like homestays than hotels. A teahouse is a wooden house built as a usual practice in mountain areas. These tea houses provide from 2 people rooms to 6 people group rooms during your trek. The accommodation facilities are very basic, with rooms having beds, mattresses, quilts, and pillows. Attached bathrooms are subject to availability and are uncommon. Wi-Fi and Hot showers are available but cost extra. Power sockets are available only in the dining area as you trek higher than Chommrong. A log fire heating system is provided for cold nights.

During your trekking adventure, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of culinary delights. These establishments offer both Nepalese and Continental dishes, providing a taste of local flavors. A highly popular choice among Nepalese locals for lunch and dinner is Dal Bhaat, a hearty meal consisting of rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and pickles. Teahouses also offer options such as pasta, noodles, pies, or other delectable treats. For breakfast, you can have soup, porridge, or pancakes.

Note: If you have any specific dietary requirements or preferences for meals during your trekking journey, be sure to inform your guide ahead of time.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: How to Prepare and What to Expect

Compared to other long treks in Nepal such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp trek stands out for its short duration and moderate difficulty. However, it is still important to have a certain level of fitness and preparation. After reaching Syauli Bazar, you can expect to hike for an average of 6-7 hours each day. Additionally, there will be an elevation gain of about 4-500 meters per day. To comfortably complete this trek, it is beneficial to engage in cardio exercises and endurance training. Cardio exercises help build stamina for long hours of walking while endurance training strengthens your muscles.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty has been set as moderate. It can typically be completed within a week starting from Pokhara. The final stretch from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp presents the most challenging part of the journey. This section involves navigating steep landslide sections and mountain foot trails. As you acclimate to higher elevations during the trek, your comfort level will increase while walking becomes easier. We strongly recommend starting your exercise regimen at least one month before your travel dates to adequately prepare for this adventure.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits (ACAP & TIMS)

If you are trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, you will need to obtain two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. It is essential for you to obtain this permit as it is checked in different check posts throughout the journey. You can get these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara or even at the entry checkpoint in Birethanti.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

As the ABC trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, getting this permit is mandatory. The permit is issued to protect the rich biodiversity of the area. Getting this permit ensures you are a responsible traveler and presents your responsibilities as a trekker. The permit is checked at the entry point in Besisahar.

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card

This is another essential card you should issue when trekking to ABC. The TIMS card helps you locate your real-time location. The Nepal government issued these permits considering the safety of trekkers in Annapurna. There are two types of cards you can issue: a green card for individual trekkers and a blue one for a group of trekkers.

Food Menu for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Lodges have a Menu; you will have your own choice. The foods are hygienic. But it is not like city food.

• Breakfast: Simple Breakfast (Eggs with hashbrown potato, toast or Gurung or Tibetan Bread, Pancake, Muesli, oatorridge, etc.)
• Lunch: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetable, Papad, Tomato Hot spicy, Chicken curry optional), Macaroni, Spaghetti, Potato item, Mo: Mo or dumpling, Pizza, Friend Rice, Fried Noodles, French fries, etc.
• Dinner: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetable, Papad, Tomato Hot spicy or pickle, Chicken curry optional), Macaroni, Spaghetti, Potato item, Mo Mo or dumplings, Pizza, Friend Rice, Fried Noodles, French fries, etc.
• Dessert: Fresh fruit (apple, orange, pomegranates, banana, and any seasonal fruit) served as a sweet dessert.

All the drinks soft, hot, and hard drinks are not included.

What to Pack for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Your trek to Annapurna Base Camp can be safe and enjoyable if you have proper packing of essentials with you. It is very recommended you to not cross over 10kgs in your backpack, as a porter will be carrying the bags of two people together in a duffle bag. Make sure you include all the essentials in your bag. Wondering what to include? Here is the list:

Clothing

• Base Layer (Top and Bottom)
• Trekking Shirts
• Trekking Pants
• Fleece Jacket
• Down Jacket
• Waterproof Jacket
• Gloves
• Hat/Beanie
• Sun Hat
• Scarf/Bandana
• Gaiters

Footwear

• Trekking Boots
• Lightweight Shoes/Sandals
• Trekking Socks

Gear

• Backpack
• Daypack
• Sleeping Bag
• Trekking Poles
• Headlamp/Flashlight
• Water Bottle/Water Bladder
• Sun Protection

Personal Items

• Personal Hygiene Kit
• First Aid Kit
• Snacks
• Camera/Phone
• Toiletries
• Documents

Extras

• Travel Adapter
• Dry Bags or Ziplock Bags
• Cash
• Backup Credit Card