Are you up to climb the high summit? Annapurna Base Camp is a perfect opportunity to challenge yourself on the adventurous trail. Annapurna Base Camp is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal. ABC is nestled at an elevation of 4130 meters. You can witness breathtaking mountain views and landscapes.
What is the best time to trek?
- Spring (March- April)
This season is the most favorable for trekking. You can witness the amazing forest blooming with rhododendrons and magnolias. The weather is milder and stable. Days are warm but nights can get chilly.
- Autumn (October- November)
This season is also the best for trekking. You can observe the beautiful landscapes. The weather is clean and precise. Days are warm with cool mornings and evenings but the nights get chilly. You can witness many festivals as autumn is the season of festivals.
- Monsoon (June- July)
This season is less crowded than the others. However, there is a risk of landslides and flight delay/cancellation. The weather is warm and cloudy. You can experience the post-rain mountain vistas. The skies are clear. You can witness the lush greenery glistening with raindrops. It is perfect for a solitude trek. You should also be aware of leech bites and heavy rains.
How difficult is it to climb ABC?
Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderately difficult to trek. With proper fitness and guidance, you can complete your trek. Here are some challenges that you may face in your trek.
Challenges
- Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness is a common problem faced by trekkers due to rapid altitude gain As you gradually ascend, altitude sickness may be a high risk. It is best to take precautions beforehand.
Some of the symptoms that you may face due to altitude sickness are:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- loss of appetite
Some of the precautions that you can follow are:
- Drink enough warm fluids and water
- Acclimatize properly
- If you feel any kind of symptoms, inform your guide immediately
- Descend to lower altitude if you face altitude sickness
- Long Walking Days
Long Walking days can be a problem if you are not in good shape. You have to expect to walk for 5-6 hours daily on uneven trails and rocky paths. Building up your endurance and stamina is essential.
Some of the tips are:
- Engage yourself in cardiovascular exercise
- Do regular walks and hikes beforehand to enhance your endurance
- Trek while taking a rest
- Route and Terrain:
You may face various routes and terrain. Sometimes, you may face rocky paths, uneven surfaces, and stone steps. The trail is somewhat narrow and has a winding section. You may occasionally be exposed to cliff edges.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival and Exploration (Optional)
- Day 2: Kathmandu – Pokhara
- Day 3: Pokhara – Nayapul – Tikhedhunga
- Day 4: Tikhedhunga – Ghorepani
- Day 5: Hike to Poon Hill (Optional) -Ghorepani -Tadapani
- Day 6: Tadapani – Chhomrong
- Day 7: Chhomrong – Dovan
- Day 8: Dovan – Deurali
- Day 9: Deurali -Annapurna Base Camp
- Day 10: ABC
- Day 11: ABC to Bamboo
- Day 12: Bamboo to Jhinu danda & Jhinu Danda to Nayapul
- Day 13: Nayapul to Pokhara
- Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Required Permits and Travel insurance for ABC trek
Permits for Annapurna Base Camp trek:
You will need mainly two permits for Annapurna Base Camp.
- The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
This permit is compulsory for you to enter the Annapurna region. This permit is for conservation efforts in the Annapurna region. You can obtain this permit in the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You can also purchase it online beforehand from the website.
Cost:
For individuals: USD 30 (approx)
- The Trekkers information Management System (TIMS):
The TIMS permit is mandatory for you. The TIMS permit is used to track the trekkers and ensure their safety. You can obtain your TIMS card by visiting the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) office in Kathmandu.
Cost:
For individual trekkers: USD 20 (approx)
If you obtained it through a registered agency, you have to pay USD 10 (approx)
Travel Insurance for Annapurna Base Camp trek:
Annapurna base camp is an adventurous trek but it’s essential to be prepared for the unforeseen. It is not mandatory to get insurance but it is highly recommended. Getting travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, loss of baggage, and travel documents.
Transportation:
How to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu?
There are several ways to travel to Pokhara from Kathmandu. It also depends upon your budget, preferences, and time duration. Here are some of the options that you can choose:
- Plane:
This is the fastest and most popular way to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It takes around 30 minutes. If you want a comfortable ride, flying is the best option.
- Tourist Bus:
This is an economical option to travel. It takes around 6-7 hours depending on traffic. The drive to Pokhara is scenic. So, if you enjoy the outdoor scenery, the Tourist bus is a good choice for you to enjoy and comfort.
- Local Bus:
This is the most affordable option to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It takes around 6-12 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Although it may not be that comfortable if you are on a tight budget, a local bus is a good option.
- Private Car:
This is the most convenient and comfortable option for the travelers. It takes around 3-4 hours but you can stop along the way. Private cars are a more comfortable and flexible choice for you to fully enjoy the trip.
Accommodation
ABC, also known as Annapurna Base Camp is one of the popular trekking routes. The accommodation options that are found along the trail are:
- Teahouses: Teahouses are the most commonly found lodging that are found throughout the Annapurna Base Camp trek. They are an affordable option for every trekker. They provide basic but cozy accommodation. Teahouses are popular among budget-conscious trekkers and backpackers. You can also connect with fellow trekkers in this communal atmosphere.
- Lodges: Lodges are mostly found at lower altitudes on the Annapurna Base Camo trek. You can find private rooms and shared dormitory-style accommodation. You can get basic amenities along with additional amenities like attached bathrooms and hot showers (often for an additional fee).
- Camping: For trekkers who are seeking a deeper connection with nature, camping is another option for you to get a unique and rewarding experience. You will also need to be well-prepared for the challenges. It is ideal for those to disconnect from the outside world and connect with the beauty of the nature of the Annapurna region.
Detailed Itinerary (Day by Day Breakdown)
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Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival and Exploration (Optional)
You will arrive in Kathmandu. Rest and relax with your tired jetlag. Spend some time exploring the city of temples and surrounding areas. Also, have a chance can learn about the local cultures and traditions.
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Day 2: Kathmandu – Pokhara
You will take a flight or scenic drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Relax and explore the lakeside town. You can also go sightseeing in Pokhara. Pack your things for your Annapurna Base Camp trek.
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Day 3: Pokhara – Nayapul – Tikhedhunga
Altitude: 1495 m
Hiking time: 5- 6 hours (approx)
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. The official trek starts from Nayapul. Hike from Nayapul to Tikhedunga passing through charming villages and terraced fields. The trails are well maintained. You can take glimpses of stunning mountain peaks.
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Day 4: Tikhedhunga – Ghorepani
Altitude: 2850 m
Hiking time: 5- 6 hours (approx)
Hike from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani. You can see amazing scenery and landscape. The trail follows a comfortable route through charming villages and farmlands. You will arrive at Ghorepani and be greeted by panoramic mountain vistas.
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Day 5: Hike to Poon Hill (Optional) – Ghorepani – Tadapani
Altitude: 2630 m
Hiking time: 7- 8 hours (approx)
If you are a morning person, you can hike to Poon Hill. You can experience an amazing sunrise with stunning Annapurna views. After you enjoy the sunrise, you will hike back down to Ghorepani and continue your trek to Tadapani, another charming village with stunning mountain vistas.
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Day 6: Tadapani – Chhomrong
Altitude: 2170 m
Hiking time: 7- 8 hours (approx)
Start the trek from Tadapani to Chhamrong. You can experience the unique Gurung culture and tradition. If you are trekking in the spring season, you can see the amazing rhododendron forest.
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Day 7: Chhomrong – Dovan
Altitude: 2600 m
Hiking time: 5- 6 hours (approx)
You will trek from Chhomrong to Dovan which is a small village located at the bank of Modi Khola river. You can observe and pass through waterfalls and streams.
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Day 8: Dovan – Deurali
Altitude: 3230 m
Hiking time: 4- 5 hours (approx)
Today, we will ascend to Deurali. You can explore the village and view Annapurna South peaks. You will continue your ascent surrounded by rhododendron forests and offering glimpses of the Annapurna region.
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Day 9: Deurali -Annapurna Base Camp
Altitude: 4130 m
Hiking time: 4- 5 hours (approx)
You will ascend through Deurali to ABC. you will reach your final destination. You will be able to see Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
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Day 10: ABC (acclimatization)
Today is the day of acclimatization, you will rest and acclimate to the high altitude. You can also explore the surroundings and take breathtaking mountain views and scenery of Annapurna Base Camp.
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Day 11: ABC to Bamboo
Altitude: 2300 m
Hiking time: 6- 7 hours (approx)
After enjoying the majestic views of Annapurna vistas and having breakfast. You will descend back to Bamboo leaving the Annapurna Base Camp. Bamboo is a charming village surrounded by stunning views where you are going to stay the night.
- Day 12: Bamboo to Jhinu danda & then Jhinu Danda to Nayapul
Altitude: 1780 m
Hiking time: 4- 5 hours (approx)
You will descend back to Jhinu Danda from Bamboo and hike to Nayapul. After that, we will experience amazing scenery and landscape. Get an opportunity to soak your tired body in a hot spring in Jhinu Danda.
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Day 13: Nayapul to Pokhara
Today, we will complete your final trek to Nayapula and take a scenic drive back to Pokhara. You will be taken back to your hotel. Rest and relax your tired body. Enjoy your remaining time exploring the city and relaxing near Phewa Lake.
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Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Scenic drive or take a flight back to Kathmandu. You will be transferred to your hotel at Thamel. You can celebrate the accomplishment of your ABC trek. Enjoy your memories of your adventurous Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Packing Essentials:
Some of the packing essentials that you will need in your Annapurna Base Camp trek:
Clothing
- Trekking Trousers
- Trekking shirts
- Inner Thermals(Top/bottom)
- Breathable Underwear
- Fleece Jacket
- Windproof jacket
- Dawn jacket
- Trekking Towel
Head Gears
- Sun Hat
- Head Band
- Buff (snood)
Hand Gear
- Inner Gloves
- Outer Gloves
Foot Gears
- Hiking Boots
- Hiking shocks
- Thermal shocks
- Gaiters
Bags
- Duffle Bag
- Backpack ( day pack)
Equipment
- Sleeping Bag
- Sleeping bag liner (if you rent)
- Trekking Pole
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle or Hydration Bladder
- Headlamps
- Camera/video camera
- Water purification tablets/ filters/ UV light
- Diamox/Dorzolamide
- Sunscreens
- Toiletries
Conclusion
So, are you going to conquer the Annapurna Base Camp? Your adventure partner Happy Mountain Nepal will fulfill your every requirement and help you enjoy your trek without hassle. You can experience the breathtaking scenery of the Annapurna region and the amazing landscape. nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers people.