The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) is one of Nepal’s most popular treks. It’s a much easier and shorter walk than some of Nepal’s other high-altitude hikes. This journey includes a variety of terrain, culture, and wildlife. Along with the most breathtaking and up-close views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri. Also, in this article, we will discuss the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation.
In the spring, it blooms with a variety of gorgeous flowers, including the Nepalese national flower, the Rhododendron. During the journey, you will be accompanied by orchids, the Machhapuchhre massif, and the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gandaki.
High cascading waterfalls can be seen on occasion. When you visit the Ghandruk museum, you will also learn about people of many ethnicities, particularly Gurung people.
However, depending on your path, you may or may not pass through Ghandruk. From Chomrung onwards, the track is the same, however, you can choose to include or exclude Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk. Poon hill provides a great view of Annapurna and other peaks, as well as dawn and sunset.
The hot springs are another highlight of this walk! For your sore muscles, this is a very calming and restorative treatment.
MBC also passes through ABC (Machhapuchhre Base Camp). What a wonderful experience. In one journey, visit two base camps!
These trails, together with the Annapurna Circuit, attract over 70% of all trekkers who visit Nepal.
Trip Highlights
- View of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri Hot Springs from afar.
- Ghandruk’s Gurung Museum
- Flora and fauna from throughout the world
- The Kali Gandaki Gorge is the deepest in the world.
- Earthquake Update for Annapurna Base Camp
The terrible earthquakes that struck Nepal on April 25 and May 12 were kind to the Annapurna region. It took the least amount of damage. During an earthquake, fewer than 1% of the route and 3% of guesthouses were destroyed, according to Miyamoto International’s damage assessment report. The Annapurna Circuit trial, not the ABC trial, sustained the majority of the damage. As a result, the region welcomed trekkers throughout the autumn peak season (September-November).
By September of the same year, minor damages had been repaired, and the road had regained its charm. It’s back to normal now, as safe as it’s ever been.
When is the best time to do Annapurna Base Camp trekking?
The Annapurna Base Camp hike can be done at any time of the year. However, the monsoon season is not ideal. The rain is strong in the evenings and at night, but gloomy clouds are always present. This implies that you won’t be able to see the lovely peaks. It also implies the presence of leeches, and insects, the possibility of landslides, and slick roadways. However, this is when animals are most active. If you’re a serious biologist, the monsoon season is ideal.
First, let’s look at the seasons. There are six seasons in Nepal, although they are translated as:
- Spring (March to May)
- Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
- Autumn (September to November)
- Winter (December to February)
This journey is best done in the autumn. Autumn is a dry season with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. This is the finest time to hike in Nepal and, as a result, it is extremely crowded. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for the travel.
If you want it to be quieter, you may travel in December. ABC is also conceivable in the winter. Dry air and clear skies provide the finest visibility, but it will be very cold and snowy during the winter. If you’re planning a hike in December, make sure you’re well-prepared with the right gear.
When traveling from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp starting in January, you must be cautious of avalanches.
Avalanche danger exists throughout this stretch. Trekkers should exercise caution when trekking from Deurali to MBC, regardless of the time of year.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is also best done in the spring. However, keep an eye out for the avalanche. Listen to the locals for information about the impending avalanche. The trail will be blooming with red and white rhododendrons, as well as many other exotic flowers native to this region, in the spring, making it a good time to visit for botanists.
Annapurna Base Camp trek route/itinerary
There are two or three ways to get to ABC. You can create a variety of itineraries using this information. At Chomrong, all routes meet and follow the same way to the base camp.
The trail can take a direct route to Annapurna Base Camp, a detour to Ghorepani Poon Hill, a lesser diversion to Ghandruk, or both. Climbing and returning stops can be made in different villages. Taking other routes, of course, adds or subtracts 3-4 days. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
Here’s an example of a trip itinerary. Ghorepani Poon Hill is traversed via this trail. In general, the hike begins in Pokhara and ends in Phedi before returning to Pokhara.
Outlined Itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Note: The following numbers denote the number of days that you will be spending at the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
1 Kathmandu to Pokhara (By flight or Bus)
2 Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri
3 Trek to Ghorepani
4 Early treks to Poon Hill for Sunrise, Back to Ghorepani, and Trek to Tadapani
5 Tadapani to Chomrong
6 Chomrong to Dobhan (Dovan)
7 Dovan to Deurali
8 Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC)
9 MBC to Annapurna Base Camp
10 Trek to Bamboo
11 Trek to Jhinudanda (Hot spring in Jhinudanda)
12 Jhinu Danda to Pothana/Jhinu Danda to Ghandruk
13 Pothana to Phedi and drive to Pokhara/ Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
Furthermore, we believe Ghanduk is a more attractive settlement, but Pothana is equally attractive. Also, going through Ghorepani is preferable to marching straight up to ABC and back.
Where to stay in Pokhara before and after the trek. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
Pokhara is designed for pre- and post-tourists, with gear rental businesses, cafes, massage centers, and nice lodging.
We appreciated the amenities of Pokhara Backpackers Hostel as budget backpackers, which featured wonderfully comfy, light rooms, luggage storage alternatives while hiking, and a wealth of useful information.
The magnificent Hotel Batika is a nicer option with private rooms with balconies and attached bathrooms if you’re seeking a nicer option.
Temperatures on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The weather is typically comfortable during the day, and once you’ve warmed up, a t-shirt will suffice for hiking, with a warmer layer to put on when you stop. The temperature drops drastically at night, so bring a couple of extra garments. Expect temperatures to drop below zero at night at the base camp (we were there in April) and minus 10 degrees Celsius further down. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
Trekking Permits and Costs for Annapurna Base Camp
- Two permits are required to trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
- The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) card is one such example. This will set you back: For SAARC nationals: Rs.200 (about $2 USD).
Others
Nrs.2000 (about $20 USD)
The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, costs NRS. 2000 (about US $20), is the second option.
Trekking Gear or Trekking Equipment Required
What to pack for the trek is one of the important questions. Not having proper gear can prove troublesome. It may cause health issues or ruin your mood.
Here is a general idea of what you should bring to Annapurna Base Camp trekking. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
- Trekking boots that aren’t too heavy. This excursion may certainly be completed in sneakers or trainers. Many folks give it a shot. The only difference is that you’ll be walking on snow for a portion of the journey, and boots provide extra protection. However, make sure your footwear is well-fitting, light, and comfy.
- A pair of crocs
- There are four pairs of liner socks in all. Two pairs for hot weather and two pairs for cold weather.
- Trekking/liner socks are preferable, but it’s fine if you only have regular socks.There are only a few pairs of underwear. You can get hiking underwear at your local store. They’re also great for other outdoor activities. Normal underwear is available in Nepal.
- A down pants and a high-quality ultralight packable down jacket. In Nepal, you can buy or rent a nice down jacket and down pants for $1 or less each day.
- T-shirts and pants, keeping in mind that you’ll be walking in both chilly and warm weather.
- This is a set of thermals. You may also stack.
- A light sleeping bag is required. You can either buy or rent in Nepal, or you can bring something from your home country.
- A trekking pole, to be precise. This trek has many ups and downs, and a trekking pole can help you navigate them. If all else fails, find a solid stick along the way and use it to support yourself.
- Gloves (two pairs) One for hot weather and one for cold weather.
- A hat made of wool
- Sunglasses
- A head torchlight or a torchlight
- Diamox and Oral Rehydration Salts are included in a first-aid kit (ORS)
- Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, water purifiers, sunscreen, moisturizer, toothpaste, and toothbrushes are all examples of toiletries.
- A waterproof map of Annapurna Base Camp, as well as your favorite snacks and entertainment, such as novels, cards, and an iPad.
- Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficult?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderately graded walking circuit that covers 70 kilometers in ten days. This walk is one of the most gratifying, but it also needs some proactive planning to reach this goal. Cardio activity, running, regular juggling, and stretching for a few weeks prior to the trips are all wonderful ways to improve your stamina. This walk is easily completed by people with average fitness levels and beginner trekkers; nevertheless, for beginners, sufficient supervision of the mountain climate, atmosphere, and environment is required. However, the more fit and experienced we are, the easier and more adventurous the journey will be. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
This trek is typically suitable for trekkers who are able to hike for 5-7 hours per day with a medium and light-day pack. The Rocky Mountains, steep ascents and descents, small routes, riverbanks, straight trails, and occasionally slippery and snowy trails are all part of the course. Before beginning your walk, it is critical that you are as healthy as possible.
Food, Accommodation, and their Cost during Annapurna Base Camp trekking
The cost of staying in a lodge is about $2 per day. A private room with twin beds or a dorm room with 4-6 beds can be rented. They’re small, but they’re comfortable and well-kept.
There are more luxurious hotels that cost significantly more, but regular teahouses cost around $2. Luxury hiking entails staying in these opulent accommodations. They are more expensive. Luxury trekking is not required for the ABC journey in terms of ‘comfort against the weatheAlong with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for the travel.r.’
Locals expect you to dine at your lodging. Teahouses make money by selling meals instead of accommodation. You’d agree that $2 is a lot less. You have a variety of meal alternatives to pick from. Eggs can be prepared in a variety of ways, as well as chapatti, milk cereals, and sandwiches. Alternatively, potatoes are ready in various ways, package noodles, chowmein, momo, macaroni, pudding, Dal Bhat Tarkari, and other dishes are available. The cheapest and most filling option is dal bhat. Tea, coffee, flavored hot drinks, and other beverages are available. They also sell alcoholic beverages.
On average, $25 a day will cover three meals and several cups of hot coffee, regardless of what you consume. Alcohol is not allowed in this budget. If you’re going to drink, do so on the way back. Caffeine and alcohol make you more susceptible to AMS. What you should know about AMS is as follows:
What is AMS?
Anyone traveling above 2400 meters should be aware of AMS. AMS has the potential to be fatal.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), often known as altitude sickness, is the body’s reaction to being at a high elevation. At higher altitudes, our bodies react to decreased air pressure and lower oxygen content.
You’re experiencing headaches, nausea, vomiting, a loss of appetite, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. Do not dismiss the signs and symptoms. It isn’t going to get any better in a hurry. Rather, it will only worsen, eventually leading to deadly illnesses such as HAPE or HACE. if you don’t give it the attention it deserves. You must relax properly before continuing downhill. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
If you have AMS, the best thing you can do is stop ascending. Return to your starting point and descend, or stay at the same elevation for the rest of the day. The majority of people acclimate in one day, however, it can take up to three days for certain people. Diamox aids in the acclimatization process. If things don’t improve, descend.
The Annapurna Base Camp hike takes you to a height of nearly 4000 meters. As a result, it is critical to take preventive steps such as staying hydrated, eating well, and rising slowly.
Some Tips for Annapurna Base Camp trekking
Here are a few ideas that might come in handy while ABC Trek.
- Except for meat, if you order a Nepali meal set or Dal Bhat Tarkari, you can have seconds and thirds for free. You may eat as much as you want.
- Carry enough cash with you on the ABC route because there are no ATMs.
- Set about $150 to cover transportation and admission to monasteries and museums.
- Add a few extra days in case you need one more day to acclimate. You might also like to go somewhere else.
- Don’t believe everything you hear from the locals. Bad people can be found almost anywhere. If you ask how far it is to place A, they may tell you that you have arrived in order to get you to stay in their tea house. That is not the case for everyone. The majority are pleasant and helpful.
- If you don’t think you’ll need the expensive equipment in the future, you can rent it instead of buying it.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and wearing revealing clothing will bring you unwanted attention.
- Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for the travel.
- It is impolite to click on individuals without their consent. Ask them first if it’s okay to photograph them.
- Food may take a bit longer to cook. Place your order as soon as possible.
- Take the necessary precautions to avoid AMS and altitude sickness.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Annapurna Base Camp Trekking that have been answered to give you a better idea of what to expect.
1) How fit do I need to be to do this trek?
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is as Grade B, or fairly challenging. So, even if you have no prior experience, any fit individual may complete this walk. You should know what to expect and mentally prepare yourself for it. Then you can do it as long as you dare.
2) How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?
You walk 4 to 6 hours every day on average. Your working hour may be as short as 3/4 of an hour at times. At the same time, walking for 6/7 hours on lovely and easy routes.
3) What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?
The highest point attained was 4190 meters. Annapurna Base Camp is at this elevation. The highest point we’ll reach on this journey is ABC.
4) What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?
You may charge your batteries on the way. You’ll need to bring your charger for this. There are also hot showers available. It’s possible that you’ll have to pay a fee for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, at a lower level, the hot water facility may be free.
5) Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?
No. On this walk, there are no ATMs. You must obtain sufficient funds in Pokhara or Kathmandu. These cities have a lot of ATMs. Everything you accomplish is with Nepali rupees. So, before you go on the trek, make sure you have adequate Nepali money.
6) What about internet access?
Yes. In most places, you’ll be able to get online. There may be some technical difficulties from time to time. The internet in Nepal is not as fast as it is in your home country, and it is very usual to lose connection.
7) Is it necessary to hire a Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?
It is all up to you. This trek can be done independently if desired. Instead of going through an agency, you can hire a guide and a porter on your own or not hire a guide at all. Having no mentor over the offseason, though, can be an issue. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
It is all up to you. Are you visiting Nepal for the first time? How sure are you that you’ll be able to find your way around? How time-constrained are you? It will be more expensive to use an agency, but they will plan everything for you. You come, trek, and then leave. Simple!
8) How much do guides and porters cost?
Guides get $20 to $30 per day in the Annapurna region, while porters earn $15 to $25 per day.
9) How much should I tip guides and porters?
People have grown accustomed to collecting gratuities. Tipping is a westerner-created culture, hence there is no predetermined amount. They will be grateful for whatever you decide to give them. If you’re still unsure, trekkers have set the threshold at 15% of the overall salary. Along with this getting knowledge about the Annapurna Base Camp Elevation is important for travel.
For example, $20 each day multiplied by ten days becomes $200. As a result, a 15% tip equals $30. This is sufficient. 30 dollars = 3000 rupees (roughly). So, depending on your level of happiness, you might tip anywhere between Rs.2500 and Rs.4000.
This is solely for porters and guides. Tipping taxi drivers and restaurant employees are not important. If you insist on tipping waiters, the typical payment is 10% of the bill. However, these are already in the service price.
Similarly, if you have some questions about the trek then please tell us on the comment below. We would love to answer it.
Happy Journey!
Conclusion
I hope this information assists you in choosing and arranging your trip to Annapurna Base Camp.