Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Age is no bar for this short moderate trek for a week duration, family with young kids and elderly people can join. But all needs to be physically fit and in sound health to cope with ups and downhill walks. Rest of the walks is normal spending overnights in a nice lodge with comprehensive food menu to enjoy.

For young infants, can hire extra porter to carry the kids if required, especially on ups and downhill.

Nearly all villages and lodges have electricity from Hydro or Solar power, where one can charge their electronic items. Where client needs to pay an extra fee for using the power as per gadgets charged. As for internet and cell phone communications, every lodges have the Wi-Fi and internet services, but can be quite disturbing sometimes due to weather and location wise.

From Pokhara onwards to ABC one can enjoy the comfort of nice lodges and guest house. As well with warm traditional hospitality in every overnight stops, people can choose from budget, standard lodges. But from Chomrong onwards to ABC the lodges are simple with basic rooms having common bathe and toilets. 

But serving good foods as per the menu provided on every lodge restaurants in a nice large dining rooms.

The foods includes from Continental, Chinese, Indian, Tibetan and Nepali foods, as well Mexican, Italian, Korean or Japanese in some lodge restaurants. Includes fresh bakery products also.

From Pokhara aerial distance of 37 k.m. / 23 miles, but walking after the drive covering maximum of 15 k.m. and minimum of 4-6 k.m.

The total walking distance is approx. 75 k.m. or 47 miles, the longest hours of walks is from Chomrong to Dovan and back to Bamboo, from Annapurna Base Camp. Rest of the walk average of 4-6 hours, depends upon one physical fitness also.

Yes, certainly of course a short panoramic flight of 30 minutes to land at Pokhara domestic airport, and vice versa on the way back. But the flight airfare depends upon the cost as set on the itinerary days. If the flight is not included on trip cost, it will be at extra cost, where trekkers needs to inform the Trek Landers Adventure on early booking. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal which leads you to the foot of Mount Annapurna (8,091 m). The trek provides the incredible views of the mountain, the varied nature of the landscape, and the local culture of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is undoubtedly one of the visually stunning and satisfying experiences in Nepal. It combines the untainted nature with the vibrant local culture. The trekker can see the broad view of the peaks such as Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli, to guava trees, and terrace farming from the rhododendron forest. Besides, the trek passes through the Gurung and Magar villages, where one can get the real mountain life. Moreover, you can see diverse nature from the sub-tropical valley to snow-clad alpine areas.

Still, you may want to go to Annapurna Base Camp for its easy access and become comfort of the route. The trail is of moderate level of difficulty and is suitable for a newbie as well as an experienced trekker. There are good tea houses along the way to get your accommodation, friendly people to mingle with, and to top it all off, natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda. The moment of exultation at the very base of the world's 10th highest mountain where the view is spectacular in all directions is really out of this world - thus holding the title of one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek normally takes 7 to 12 days to be finished depending on what path, speed, and plans you take. Generally, the standard trek starts from the Pokhara area and goes through the villages of Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Deurali, and at last, Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) is reached. A shorter itinerary (7–8 days) is only suitable for the trekkers who are very experienced and have limited time, whereas a longer (10–12 days) provides an opportunity to get used to the altitude, have some rest days as well as side trips such as Poon Hill for the sunrise view.

The trek is not very long, but the total time can depend on the fitness level, condition of the trail, and weather. Some trekkers choose to extend one or two days in between Kathmandu-Pokhara for sightseeing or relaxation and hot spring bathing in Jhinu Danda after the trek. Therefore, if you want to have a nice and pleasant experience, it is better to have a 10-day plan for the whole Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Start by selecting a company that is registered with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and a member of the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) to locate a reputable trekking agency for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Make sure that their website is open about the prices, that the company has valid licenses, and that there are good reviews from the clients on reliable platforms such as Trip Advisor or Google Reviews. The correct agencies will offer you a guide who is experienced and licensed by the government, insurance for their staff, and they will tell you exactly what is included in the trip such as permits, accommodation, meals, and transportation.

Moreover, you can get recommendations from people who have already done the trek and travel forums to be sure of the agency's and guide's credibility. A reliable guide should be able to communicate in English without any problem, should know the local culture and routes, and have a good safety record. Don't go for the cheapest option — instead, put your money into agencies that are concerned about your safety, give good wages to porters, and trekking in an environmentally friendly way. In this way, you are assured of a safe, real, and nicely planned trekking experience in Annapurna.

The majority of trekking agencies in Nepal provide a variety of payment options for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek that are suitable for different kinds of customers. In general, there are card payments done online (Visa, MasterCard), bank or wire transfers (SWIFT) to a Nepal-based account, and cash payments on the spot in Kathmandu. Also, a few agencies might be willing to accept payments made through PayPal or locally via an e-wallet like eSewa to make transactions faster and comfortable. In case of credit card payments, a certain percentage of the amount (approximately 3–5%) may be charged as a transaction fee, and in the case of bank transfers, additional fees may be levied if your bank has a certain policy.

Trekkers are normally instructed to pay a deposit of one-fifth to one-half of the total trip cost when making a reservation and that will be the guarantee of their place while the remaining amount is to be paid during the arrival before the trek starts. Agency terms and conditions, especially those concerning refund policies and payment deadlines, are very important, hence one needs to be thoroughly familiar with them. In the event that you have already set off on the trek, you will not be able to make electronic payments, therefore, it is necessary to have enough local cash (Nepalese Rupees) for meals, Wi-Fi, charging, and tips.

Go to Treklanders ABC trekking booking page, where they have listed the package options and prices. you can book directly through our website. You should complete the booking form with your information: country, number of travellers, preferred departure date, email, and phone number.

Decide on your payment method — you can pay the full amount at once or just give a deposit to secure your booking. The agency will confirm your booking after the submission and give you details about your guide, itinerary, services included, and permit arrangements.

In case you need help or want to talk to them, you may WhatsApp or Viber them at the number they’ve given.

It is indeed a good idea to have a licensed guide during your Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. According to the new trekking regulations in Nepal, it is now compulsory to have a guide.

Here are the reasons:

• Mandatory Requirement: From April 2023, trekking alone without a guide is prohibited in most areas such as Annapurna.
• Safety: Guides are there to help you find your way, deal with altitude problems, and take care of emergencies.
• Permits & Logistics: They also facilitate your ACAP and TIMS permits and take care of your stays.
• Cultural Insight: With the help of guides you get to know the local people and therefore your trekking experience becomes more valuable.

The best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is in the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) seasons.

Spring (March–May): During this time of year the temperatures are neither too hot nor too cold, the sky is usually very clear, and rhododendron forests are blooming. The colorful and beautiful nature makes it perfect for taking photos and enjoying the trek.

Autumn (September–November): The most popular trekking season is definitely autumn when the weather is very stable, the air is fresh and you can see long-range mountain views of unsurpassed beauty. The sky is mostly clear, so you can see the peaks of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding range very well.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek altitude range varies along the route, with the starting point in lowland villages at about 1,000–1,200 meters (3,280–3,940 ft) near Pokhara. From there, the ascent is gradual through terraced fields, forests, and small villages in the high mountains. The average altitude of the trek is approximately 2,000–3,000 meters (6,560–9,840 ft) as most villages and rest houses are located in this altitude range.

The highest point of the trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 ft) and the lowest point is around Phedi or Nayapul at 1,070–1,100 meters (3,510–3,610 ft). If you are going to be hiking at these altitudes, you will need to get used to the altitude gradually, especially when you are near the base camp, in order to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Yes, ABC trek is a moderate level and you don't necessarily have to have prior trekking experience to be able to complete it. The paths are clearly marked, and tea houses or guesthouses can be found along the way, so the trek is open to those who are physically fit but have no trekking experience.

Nevertheless, a little preparation wouldn't hurt:

Engage in some jogging, hiking, or stair climbing to develop your stamina.

Work on your leg and core strength to be able to cope with steep slopes and descents.

Go on practice hikes with your backpack to acclimatize yourself to carrying weight for several hours.

Absolutely! The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is very much doable by a first-time trekker. It is a moderately difficult trek and the routes are easy to follow. There are tea houses for lodging almost everywhere along the trail and you can always take a break at any point of time. Motor skills in climbing and experience in altitude trekking are not necessary.

Physical training required before Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek

Instead of a trek, what you really need is a proper physical training. This should be started 3-4 months prior to the day of your trek in Annapurna Base Camp. Get out and run on hills. Go for a hike while carrying a weighted backpack. Climb stairs while simulating a higher altitude with your breathing.

Strengthen your legs and improve your cardiovascular fitness. A first-time trekker who is well-prepared will be able to perform better than a seasoned trekker who is not.

Make your training a regular part of your life and don’t miss your sessions. Follow acclimatization steps carefully. Monitor your health and condition and adjust accordingly. Drink plenty of water. Consume adequate amounts of food. These elements are of much bigger importance than being experienced in trekking.

You should begin your preparations four months prior to your ABC trek. Your goal should be to work on stamina, strength, and endurance.

Cardio Training:

• To make your cardio work more challenging, add hills to your runs or stairs to your climbs 4–5 times a week for 30–45 minutes.
• To keep your cardio workout interesting you can choose one of the following activities: rowing, fast walking, or cycling.

Leg Strength:

• Get your legs ready by doing squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises 2–3 times weekly.
• Put on a 15-20 kg backpack and walk up a hill to get your legs used to both the steep and the going down part.

Altitude Simulation Training:

• Try to perform one High-intensity interval training (HIIT) session per week or two at most it could be sprints, burpees, mountain climbers to let your body become used to a lack of oxygen.

Core Work:

• Try to strengthen your core with such exercises as planks, side planks, and dead bugs, 3–4 times per week for 15 minutes.

Backpack Training:

• you should be going for long walks carrying your actual 8–12 kg backpack for 4 to 6 times.
• Practice stairs work to get your shoulders and back comfortable with the weight.

Sample Weekly Training Plan:

• Monday: 45-min hill run
• Tuesday: Leg strength exercises
• Wednesday: 2–3 hour hike with backpack
• Thursday: Core work
• Friday: 45-min cardio
• Saturday: 3+ hour hill trek with backpack
• Sunday: Rest

2. Recovery and Nutrition

• Recharge your body needs sleep of 7–9 hours per night.
• Aim at having protein-rich intake of food to foster muscle development.
• Do not forget the importance of water intake before and throughout the trek.
• Letting your body have rest days should be one of your priorities.

3. Pre-Trek Health Check

• Please make sure you have a clearance check with your doctor before the actual trek.
• To be sure of your safety while trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp discuss with your doctor any altitude concerns and pre-existing conditions that you have.
   

Proper Acclimatization is the ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) trek is the main thing that makes it a safe and enjoyable trek. It is a process that gradually the body adjusts to the altitude and oxygen decreases in the air. If acclimatization is not properly done, altitude sickness is highly likely to occur, with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and weakness. If the condition is serious, it can lead to HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) or HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema), which are potentially fatal.

Moreover, during the trekking, the body adapts if an extra day is spent at these places: Chhomrong, Dovan, or Deurali. This strategy slows down the climbing, increases oxygen intake, and lessens tiredness. Acclimatization also enables trekkers to delight in the views and indulge in the trek rather than fret over being worn out or sick. To summarize, it is the very factor that ensures a safe, successful, and memorable ABC experience.

The ABC trek is definitely a challenging one, but it gets tougher with every kilometer you ascend. The air gets thinner and contains less oxygen, making it hard for your body to adjust to such changes; thus, it will breathe faster, its beat will quicken, and it will become tired and weak. Also, there might be some headaches, dizziness, and nausea or vomiting. These are the symptoms of mild altitude sickness that may occur in any person going above 2,500–3,000 meters and at higher elevations, physical performance can drop even more. In case of very severe situations, this might progress to HAPE (fluid in the lungs) or HACE (brain swelling) -the two conditions that can lead to death. The rule of thumb dictates that the risk of accidents should be reduced to minimum when ascending, acclimatizing, hydrating, and being cautious are some of measures one takes while trekking.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness You Will Pretend Not to See:

• Headache, Nausea, Lack of energy.  Difficult breathing, Disrupted sleep. Most mountaineers have these symptoms at an altitude of more than 3500 meters. Your brain tries to convince you to go on. No, it is better not to.
• These are the signs that come from your body. If you decide to ignore them, the signs will escalate to disorientation, inability to control movements, and death resulting from pulmonary/cerebral edema.

On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, acclimatization typically requires 1–2 days at intermediate altitudes (approximately 2,500–3,500 meters) for the body to get used to the lower oxygen level. Trekkers usually take an additional night in the villages such as Chhomrong, Dovan, or Deurali before going up higher, which not only makes the trek safer by reducing the risk of altitude sickness but also more comfortable.

Acclimatization Factors You Are Not Able to Control

While age, fitness, and experience at altitude may seem like factors that would help you get used to the altitude, they do not necessarily work that way. There are 65-year-olds who acclimatize without any problems, and there are 25-year-olds who get altitude sickness severely. Your individual physiology decides. Respect this unpredictability by taking acclimatization seriously.

Acclimatization on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be done effectively by a slow ascent and not going up more than 300–500 meters per day once the altitude is above 3,000 meters. It is also a good idea to have a rest or “acclimatization day” in villages like Chhomrong, Dovan, or Deurali where you can let your body get used to it. Drinking enough water, eating light meals, and not taking alcohol or exercising too much are good ways to prevent altitude sickness. If you listen to your body, then in the case of altitude sickness symptoms, you should stop or go down. Doing light activities, taking short walks, and gently moving at higher elevations will help your body get used to the altitude without tiring yourself too much and thus making your trek safer and more enjoyable.
Climb High, Sleep Low

At a high point in the day, go hiking and then take a rest at a lower level. This method allows your body to gradually get used to the thin air and it decreases the chance of altitude sickness.

Active Rest Days

• On days of acclimatization, rather than tea-house visits, take a light 1-2 hour walk. Remaining active will make the adjustment to high altitude quicker and easier for your body.

Slow Altitude Gain

• Every day your ascent above 2,500 meters should be capped at 300–500 meters. Keep the pace uphill slow if you want to be free of altitude sickness.

Hydration

• Make it a point to drink 3-4 liters of water each day. Properly hydrated is when your urine is clear, if it is dark, then you are in need of more liquid.

Nutrition

• Eating the necessary calories should not be an issue, particularly carbs and protein, as your body will require more energy at altitude even if you have a suppressed appetite.

Sleep

• It may be very difficult to get your normal sleep at altitude. Put your head higher by using some extra pillows and do not take sleeping pills, which can make breathing even more difficult.

Altitude Medication

• Besides acclimatizing faster, however, you should seek medical advice before using Diamox.

Know Your Symptoms

• Mild altitude sickness is characterized by headache, nausea, tiredness, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and lack of appetite. Confusion, severe shortness of breath and loss of coordination among others are just a few symptoms that require immediate descending to a lower altitude.
   

Cessation of climbing, resting, keeping hydrated and eating light foods are the things to do if symptoms appear. Usually within 24–48 hours, mild cases will get better on their own. In the case of severe symptoms, a drop of 500 meters or even more must be done immediately.

Drinking Water Options

• Water that comes in a bottle, is purified or is treated with the use of purification tablets is fine to drink. Never consume tap water.
• Common Health Concerns
• Among the widely known health issues associated with high altitude are altitude sickness, dehydration, blisters, sunburn, and sore muscles.

Medical Access

• There are only a few medical facilities in bigger villages. Besides that, make sure that your travel insurance will cover up any medical emergencies and evacuation.
   

Besides being on the safer side, you should also consider the environment and other people if you decide to use the following safety precautions: Use marked trails for your walk, don’t separate yourself from your group, communicate with your guide about your plans and be careful of avalanches or falling rocks.

Definitely, The ABC travel insurance should be regarded as a necessity rather than an option. The money for bringing a person down from an altitude can be as high as $3,000–$10,000. At the same time, medical care at altitude is very expensive. It means that if you do not have a travel insurance policy, you must cover the costs of the helicopter rescue and hospital care yourself. There is a very real possibility that an accident may happen to you at a high altitude. Having travel insurance for the ABC trek is probably the most sensible thing to do with your money before your trek.

High-altitude evacuation: Helicopter rescue should be covered up to at least 5,500–6,000 meters.

Emergency medical treatment: Care at the hospital, operation if necessary, and medication at altitude.

Medical repatriation: Coming back home with you for the continuation of the treatment.

Trip cancellation: The money will be returned to you if you are incapable of trekking either due to an injury or illness prior to departure.

Altitude sickness coverage: It has to be specifically HACE and HAPE and the associated evacuation.

Baggage coverage: The lost or delayed luggage which is a part of your trip to Nepal.

Important verification before purchasing package:

Talk to your insurer personally. Check: elevation coverage 5,500–6,000 meters, HACE/HAPE coverage, Nepal coverage, trekking (not mountaineering), evacuation $100,000+ minimum, and medical repatriation included. Make sure that you have everything in writing.
 

Travel Insurance Budget while on the ABC Trek

The cost of ABC trekking travel insurance ranges from $50–150 US dollars for two weeks and varies according to the insured person's age and coverage limits. This is quite a small amount of money in comparison to the evacuation costs. It is advisable not to forego travel insurance in order to save money—helicopter rescue will cost you $10,000+.
 

A Nepal visa is quite obtainable at the airport where it is given on the spot or you can have it in advance at any embassy of Nepal. The visa requirements for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek are as easy as getting a tourist visa anytime - either before or after arrival.

Tourist Visa Types for Nepal Trekking:

• 15-day visa: $25 USD – the most suitable for the majority of the ABC trekkers.
• 30-day visa: $40 USD – the best option for longer travels after the trek.
• 90-day visa: $100 USD – used when one has an extended adventure in Nepal.
• The visa duration begins from the day it is issued, so be sure to trek for the days you have planned accordingly.

Option 1 – On Arrival: You can do the application at the airport immigration office in Kathmandu. Make sure you have your passport, one passport-size photo, and the visa fee (in USD or NPR) ready for the desk. The whole thing takes about 15–30 minutes.

Option 2 – In Advance: An application through a Nepali embassy in your home country is the way to go if you want to save the time at the airport. It usually takes 3–5 working days.

A regular tourist visa covers all the different trekking areas that you may want to visit, and that includes the Annapurna Base Camp as well. Apart from the common trekking permits (ACAP & TIMS), no other special or restricted-area permits are needed.

Passport with a minimum of 6 months of validity beyond the trek end date

• One passport-size photo
• Visa fee ($25–$100 USD)
• Filled-in visa form (can be obtained at the airport or embassy)

Visa Extension for Trekking in Nepal

• In case the trek lasts beyond the validity of the visa, one can quickly extend it at either the Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The cost is $2 per day and the process takes about 1–2 hours.
   

Your accommodation will mainly be in teahouses or lodges, where you can expect simple rooms equipped with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms.

Hardly ever—during regular seasons you can book on the spot, however, in a peak period (Oct–Nov & Mar–Apr) it is more reliable to book via your guide or agency.

Nightly prices vary between NPR 500–2500 ($4–20 USD) and that can be influenced by both altitude and season.

A hot shower is available but you have to pay for it (approximately NPR 200–500) as wireless gas or solar panels are used to heat the water.

Yes, however, the charging fee is NPR 100–300 per device; most of the electricity is solar-powered and there are limitations.

Most teahouses provide Wi-Fi for which you have to pay (NPR 200–500 per session), where connection gets weaker the higher you go.

The teahouses serve fresh Nepali and Western meals—Dal Bhatt, noodles, soups, and tea being the most common. Prices go up with altitude due to the cost of transport.

In spring (March–May), you can expect bright weather, warm days, and cool nights, which is also the best time for rhododendron blooming. 

In the fall (September–November), the weather is usually clear, dry, and stable, with breathtaking views of the mountains and comfortable temperatures during the day. That being said, the Annapurna region is known for having sudden changes in weather, so you should still be prepared for a little rain or cold wind.

It can sometimes be very dangerous when there is a lot of fresh snow at high altitudes and the mountain slopes are covered with ice, as the trail becomes very slippery and there is a risk of avalanches close to the base camp. During the monsoon months (June–August), the trails become muddy and leech-infested due to rainfall, while strong winds can make it difficult to see where you are going and increase the chances of suffering a cold-related problem such as hypothermia. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on local weather forecasts and bring suitable clothing and equipment if you are expecting a range of different weather conditions.

Of course, it is your choice to be transported by a domestic flight which only takes 25 minutes or by tourist bus or a private car which takes 6-8 hours depending on your budget and time.

While the flights are the quickest and one can enjoy the Himalayan views but if you travel by car you save money and you can also enjoy the countryside landscape which is very beautiful.

The Annapurna treks usually start from Nayapul, Ghandruk, or Kande. These places are 1-2 hours by jeep or bus from Pokhara.

Of course, you can rent a private jeep or taxi in Pokhara to make your journey comfortable and timings flexible.

Yes, there are local buses and shared jeeps which run daily from Pokhara to Nayapul or nearby villages and you can get on them for a small fare.

From the endpoint (like Jhinu Danda or Siwai), you can take a local bus or jeep to Pokhara and come back.

Yes, during the monsoon or foggy season, flights are sometimes delayed or canceled because of bad visibility.

Yes, most of the trekking agencies registered in Nepal gladly undertake airport pickup, transfers to trailheads and return trips along with other transport logistics with which you have to deal.

On average, the total cost is around 1500$ per person. The final amount varies with the number of days, guide, and comfort level.

The prominent expenses are the permits (ACAP & TIMS), guide/porter fees, food and accommodation, transportation, and some small gear or snacks.

You will be required to have two permits: ACAP – NPR 3,000 ($25 USD) and TIMS card – NPR 2,000 ($15 USD).

It is recommended that one should have a daily budget of $25–$40 USD for ordinary meals and teahouse accommodation. The prices will rise as you go higher in the mountains.

A guide that is officially recognized will cost you about $25–$35 USD per day, whereas a porter will charge you around $20–$25 USD per day.

The ticket for the bus going from Kathmandu to Pokhara will cost you around $10–$20 USD, while a one-way flight will be approximately $100–$130 USD. A local jeep ride to or from the trailhead will cost you $10–$30 USD.

Indeed, there are small additional costs of $1–$5 USD each that one needs to be prepared for if they want to charge their devices, use Wi-Fi, take a hot shower, or drink bottled water.