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Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. The trek offers stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri and more, a chance to experience the rich culture of the local Gurungs and explore lush trails and diverse wildlife of the region. Considering all these factors, the popularity seems quite imminent. However, with so much to see, so many things to do and places to explore, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the choices and information available.
Our Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek aims to resolve this issue by providing you with all the necessary and important information regarding the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, all in one place.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from the trailhead at Nayapul and takes you through Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Dovan and numerous other Gurung villages, eventually arriving at the Annapurna Sanctuary. Trekking through the quaint villages, you will be able to genuinely experience the culture, lifestyle and hospitality of the friendly locals. The trek continues through terraced farms, hillside trails, dense forests and river gorges, eventually ending up at the base camp (4,130m). The skyline at the Annapurna Sanctuary is dominated by some of the highest peaks in the world, including Annapurna I (8,091m). Enjoy the unforgettable views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhare, Manaslu, Himchuli, Dhaulagiri, Glacier Dome and more!
Best Season for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost
Permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
What to carry for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Accommodation, food and water on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Transportation during Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Guide and Porter
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
The best time of the year to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp are during the spring (March - May) and autumn (September - November) seasons. The spring season is when the rhododendrons are in full bloom and the hills are colorful, making it the perfect time to travel for nature lovers. Autumn is known for having the finest views as all the dust and pollution gets washed away by the monsoon rain right before autumn. The skies are crystal clear and the weather is stable with perfectly warm temperature leading to the best experience you can have while trekking in the Himalayas. The winter season is a decent choice as well for those who wish to enjoy the extra snowfall covering the mountains. However, the temperature can drop very low during the winter, so be prepared for that before choosing to trek in winter.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate difficulty trek that can be performed by most fit and healthy people. Prior trekking experience will certainly make the trek easier but it is not a necessity. The daily trekking hours average at around 5-6 hours per day.
The highest altitude of the trek is reached at the Base Camp (4,130m). With most of the trail located around 3000 meters or below, altitude sickness is generally not an issue. However, we recommend taking adequate rest/acclimatization days and carrying some medicine just in case. Also remember to stay hydrated and rest well during the trek.
If you are trekking independently, trekking in the Annapurna region can be comfortably managed for as little as $30 - $40 a day. This cost covers necessities such as food and accommodation and possibly other commodities such as showers, laundry, internet, snacks and drinks and so on depending on the price.
However, trekking solo isn’t an option or choice for everyone. If you travel with a trekking agency, they will take care of everything from meals, accommodation, guides, porters, transportation and so on. These services obviously come with a bulkier price tag, with the standard price for Annapurna Base Camp package ranging between $1000 - $1200.
The Annapurna Base Camp trail passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area. As such, you will need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) entry permit, regardless of whether you’re travelling solo or with a group. You will also require a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, which you can obtain from the TAAN secretariat or Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
ACAP Permit for SAARC Nationals: NRs 200
For Non-SAARC Nationals: NRs 2,000 (Approx. US $20)
TIMS permit: NRs 1,000 (Approx. US $10)
Annapurna region is mostly a hilly/semi-mountainous region, so trekking here doesn’t require any special equipment to be carried. The same is true for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Just remember to carry the general necessities like down jackets and warm clothing, sleeping bags or tents, water bottle, torch light and a trekking pole. In most cases, these items will be sufficient for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Due to the popularity of the Annapurna region among trekkers, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek has a very well equipped trail. There are sufficient lodges and teahouses offering their services at reasonable prices. The teahouses have hygienic rooms and offer shower and meal facilities as well.
Trekkers are generally expected to have their meals at the tea house they’re staying in but it is not a rule set in stone though. Generally, you can choose between Nepali, Indian or Continental dishes as your meal. Snacks and desserts, bakery and pastry items and drinks are also available at reasonable prices.
Water is fairly plentiful on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek but it might not be safe to directly drink water found in the wild. Unless you have purifying equipment with you, only drink water you’ve received/purchased from tea houses/shops for safety reasons.
The trailhead of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is at Nayapul, which lies just an hour and half drive away from Pokhara. You can reach there via public transport like buses and taxis or a private vehicle.
It is possible to trek independently without a guide or porter on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The trail is popular and well-marked and information about weather and climate, route, rules and regulations and so on is plentiful.
However, as we mentioned earlier, hiring a local trekking agency and travelling with a guide/porter will only serve to vivify your experience on the trek. You’ll have a much lesser load to carry, making the trek easier and comfortable. And having a local guide with you means you’ll have access to different routes, interesting information along the trail and help during emergencies that you might not have had otherwise.
The route you take on the Annapurna Base Camp trek is totally up to you, and the itinerary can be customized accordingly. The trek can be completed in as little as 4-5 days or take as long as two weeks depending on how much of the region you wish to explore. A sample itinerary we recommend is listed below:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Day 02: Flight / Drive to Pokhara (820m), 6-7 hours trek
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m), 4-5 hours trek
Day 04: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (3,200m) 6-7 hours trek
Day 05: Hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani (2,700m). 5-6 hours trek
Day 06: Trek from Tadapani to Sinuwa (2,340m) 6-7 hours trek
Day 07: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,230m) 6 hours trek
Day 08: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) 5 hours trek
Day 09: Trek from ABC to Bamboo (2,340m) 6 hours trek
Day 10: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (Jhinu Hot Spring) (1,780m) 5 hours trek
Day 11: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul – 5 Hours, and drive back to Pokhara – 1:30 Hour
Day 12: Return from Pokhara to Kathmandu by Deluxe Tourist Bus - 6-7 hrs drive Day 13: Final Departure
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