Trekking in Nepal:
Nestled in the heart of the mighty Himalayas, Nepal attracts nature and adventure lovers with its picturesque and awe-inspiring landscapes, unique cultures and traditions. This beautiful country is also home to some world-renowned trekking routes such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek and Langtang Valley Trek which are considered some of the best and popular treks in Nepal.
Nepal’s trekking trails offers some awe-inspiring experiences. If you are seeking adventure, or want to spend some time in solitude away from the busy life in the cities, or even want to immerse yourself into the local culture, trekking in Nepal is full of many wonders for everyone! Among the numerous trekking destinations, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is a most popular and preferred trek in Nepal for those looking to experience the magnificent beauty and the sheer grandeur of the Annapurna range without the extreme altitude challenges of Everest Base Camp Trek.
Trekking in Nepal is a one in a lifetime experience. Mt. Ama Dablam in all its glory
How Trekking in the Annapurna Region Differs from the Everest Region?
The comparison between the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with the Everest Base Camp Trek, is obvious when choosing to do a trek in Nepal. Both the treks in Nepal, lead to the base camp of towering mountain peaks. Everest being the tallest mountain on the Earth, the journey to its base camp is an iconic classic Himalayan trek. Mt. Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain in the world and the journey to its base camp is considered as one of the most scenic trekking routes in Nepal. However, they offer distinct landscapes, altitudes, and experiences.
- Altitude Difference – On the Everest Base Camp trek, trekkers reach up to 5,364 meters (17,598 ft), while trekking to Annapurna Base Camp takes you at 4,130 meters (13,549 ft). With the altitude just around 4000 meters, Annapurna Base Camp is a preferred option for first time trekkers who are concerned about getting the altitude sickness.
- Varied Terrain – While the trails to Everest Base Camp traverse mountain villages, glacier-covered paths and relatively rugged terrains, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek passes through lush green dense forests, many waterfalls, and terraced farmlands.
- Cultural Experience –Deeply rooted in Sherpa and Tibetan Buddhist cultures, the Everest Base Camp Trek gives a glimpse of Nepal’s rich culture. Whereas on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek you get to experience cultures of diverse ethnic groups, including Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities.
- Accessibility – Everest Base Camp Trek starts from a small mountain village called Lukla. The easiest and fasted way to reach Lukla required to drive from Kathmandu to Rame Chaap airport and then a short flight to Lukla. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is easily accessible via a scenic drive to Nayapul from Pokhara. One can either drive to Pokhara or take a flight from Kathmandu.
Where Does the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Start?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Banthanti, a charming town reachable by a 2.5-3-hour drive from Pokhara. As trekkers move forward, they pass through Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Dovan, and Deurali, before finally arriving at Annapurna Base Camp which is located at an altitude of 4130 meters. On the Annapurna Base Camp Trail, trekkers also get a chance to explore Poon Hill, famous for its breathtaking sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Poon Hills Trek is also one of the most popular treks in Nepal.
What is the duration of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
There are multiple itinerary options and depending on the route you choose, the duration of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek typically lasts between 6 to 12 days. At Adventure Pulse we follow an itinerary keeping in mind the acclimatization process and the day-wise trekking distance as well as altitude gain. Our standard route looks like this:
Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu (Hotel)
Day 2 – Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Banthanti (3 hours)
Day 3 – Trek from Banthanti to Ghorepani (2874 M) (Evening hike to Poon-Hill)
Day 4 – Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2630 M)
Day 5 – Trek from Tadapani to Chomrong (2170 M)
Day 6 – Trek from Chomrong to Dovan (2600 M)
Day 7 – Trek from Dovan to Deurali (3200 M)
Day 8 – Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 M)
Day 9 – Trek back to Bamboo (2130 M)
Day 10 – Trek to Jhinu Danda (1725 M) & Drive to Pokhara (approx. 3-4 hours drive)
Day 11 – Fly to Kathmandu & overnight stay
Day 12 – International Departure
How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The trek is rated as a moderate to difficult grade, which makes it an ideal and accessible option for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. However, one should not underestimate the trek as it includes relatively steep ascents and descents, long trekking hours, and cold temperatures at higher altitudes. The route to Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek includes climbing stairs which could be physically demanding for some and adds additional challenges. It is very important to prepare well before undertaking this trek and we recommend incorporating staircase climbing in to your training regime.
You can find a detailed Physical Fitness Preparation Guide here: https://adventure-pulse.com/trek/annapurna-base-camp-trek/
Who Is It Recommended For?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is ideal for:
– Beginner Trekkers who want to go on their firs high-altitude trek in Nepal.
– Adventure enthusiasts looking for a trek that perfectly balances challenges of high altitude trekking and the rewards.
Though this is technically a high-altitude trek, the highest altitude a trekker will experience is 4130 m above sea level, thus ensuring that the trail does not leave you breathless.
Best Time to Trek to Annapurna Base Camp:
The best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp is the Pre monsoon season in Nepal which is from March to May. Expect to trekking through Vibrant rhododendron forests, pleasant weather, clear mountain views.
During the Spring season (March to May), the temperature on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek remains little warmer and pleasant. The day time temperature ranges between 5 °C to 12 °C and the night time temperature at the higher places could go as low as sub-zero temperatures.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is also recommended during the Autumn season (September to November) in Nepal. During this time, the day time temperatures range between 10 °C to 15 °C and night time temperature as low as 0 °C to -5 °C. The weather is usually Dry with crisp cold air and stunning visibility of the mountain peaks around.
Experienced trekkers can also consider doing the trek in Winter (December-February). However, the trek becomes very challenging due to snow and extreme cold temperatures. Biggest advantage is that the trails are less crowded and peaceful during winters.
Avoid the Monsoon season in Nepla (June-August) as there are very high chances to landslides and cold rainy weather.
What are the Accommodation options on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Like many other treks in Nepal, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is also a Teahouse style trek. Teahouses are local lodges which offer basic yet comfortable stays. These teahouses typically have shared rooms (dorm room or on twin sharing at a few places subject to availability) with simple beds and communal dining areas. Some of the teahouses also provide services like Hot showers, WiFi, Laundry etc at an additional cost.
What kind of Food do you get on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
As Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, the region cater to trekker from all parts of the world. All the teahouses along the trail offer wide variety of food options. The Meals are freshly prepared in the Tea Houses that we stay in during the trek.
Typical Days Meals Example:
- Breakfast – Porridge, Two eggs, toast with jam or Butter and Hot tea/coffee/ Chocolate.
- Lunch – Rice with Lentils & Vegetables commonly known as Dal Bhat Tarkari, Choice of Fried Rice or Noodles.
- Dinner – Choice of Soup, Mashed potatoes, Choice of Noodles/fried Rice and Hot Drinks.
Essential Packing List for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Find the list of things to carry here: https://adventure-pulse.com/trek/annapurna-base-camp-trek/
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a must-experience adventure, blending natural beauty, cultural depth, and the rewarding thrill of reaching the foot of Annapurna I (8,091m). Whether you’re a solo traveller, part of a group, or an adventurer looking for a Himalayan experience, this trek guarantees unforgettable memories.
Feeling inspired to start your Himalayan Trekking Adventures? Get in touch via email on [email protected] to know more about our upcoming treks in Nepal.
Follow me on my Instagram @umangxdave for more!
