Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Trekking

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude 870m - 4190m
  • Grade Moderate
  • Duration 9 days
  • Group Size 1 - 15

Overview

Annapurna base camp trek is famous for trekkers. The principal peaks of the western portion of the great Annapurna Himal, including Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna, Ganagapurna, Annapurna 3, and Machhapuchhare, are arranged almost precisely in a circle about 10 miles in diameter with a deep glacier-covered amphitheater at the center.

From this glacier basin, known as the Annapurna Sanctuary, the Modi Khola knifes its way south in a narrow gorge fully 12,000 ft. deep. Further south, the gorge opens up into a wide and fertile valley, the domain of the Gurungs. The middle and upper portions of Modi Khola offer some of the best short trekking routes in Nepal, and the valley is located so that these treks can be easily combined with treks into the Kali Gandaki region to the west.

In spite of the great heights of the surrounding peaks and ice walls, the valley floor between 12,000 and 14,000 ft. can provide comfortable camping spots in good weather.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an advanced spectacular hiking course that spreads in some of the environments of Annapurna Sanctuary National Park. The route starts with the beautiful forest and terrace of the rice fields that go up at an Annapurna Base Camp at a height of 4100m.

The landscape changes rapidly when hiking the height from tropical forests in thin snow between spectacular snow tips. Trekking in Nepal is a wonderful experience. ABC Trek is one of the most spectacular journeys in this region. Many trekkers should choose this route as shorter and cheap for the Everest-base Camp trek. The base camp has a non-realistic environment surrounded by some of the best peaks in the world.

Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna South (7219 M), Fish Tail Macha Puchere (6993), and Hiunchuli (6441 M). The road to Annapurna Base Camp is accessible from several trailheads and is a period of 6 to 12 days depending on your route.

This article describes the ability to combine with other hiking courses such as ABC and Annapurna Circuit, Poon Hill, and Mardi Himal Trek, from the viewpoint of Annapurna Base Camp. It is easy to reach by public transport from the beautiful city of road. It’s a teahouse trek, which means there are plenty of cheap guesthouses to stay in and eat along the way. Discuss costs, itineraries, guides, porters, altitude sickness, and provide packaging and planning tips.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  • The terraced farmland above Pokhara
  • Visit the inner sanctuary of Annapurna with panoramic views of 10 peaks over 6000m
  • Views of Dhaulagiri and the Kali Gandaki from Poon Hill
  • Surrounded by a ring of impressive mountains, including Annapurna I 8091m (26540ft.)
  • The combination of pretty villages and farmland at Ghaundrung, set against the panorama of high peaks beyond makes this one of the most picturesque of treks
  • Natural hot spring at Jhinudanda

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu airport. Our Airport Representative transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle.

There you will be met by our Airport Representative and transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle. Yes, you do have pre departure meeting.
Please, bring two copies passport size photos, photocopy of the passport and travel insurance while meeting.

  • Max. Altitude
    1000m
  • Accomodation
    3 stars hotel
Day 02

After breakfast transfer domestic airport and flight to Pokhara then drive to Ghaundrung Phedi by Jeep and trek to Jhinu danda (natural hot spring). Flight for 30 minutes and driving 3:30 hours and walking 3 hours.

We will start our trek with a half-hour flight to Pokhara. The flight introduces us to the gigantic mountain peaks of Nepal. Right after taking off from Kathmandu, we will be greeted by the peaks of Langtang and the Lakpa Dorje Range. Going slightly westward we will see the mountain peaks of the Annapurna Massif and the Dhaulagiri range.
We will land at the Pokhara airport with the view of beautiful blue lakes like Rupa, Begnas, and Fewa in the fore ground.
A jeep will be waiting for us at Pokhara Airport then  continue drive by jeep to Ghandruk Phedi. The road from Pokhara to Nayapul is the main road connecting Pokhara with Parbat, Beni, and Baglung. Therefore the road is black topped and the ride is comfortable.
We will leave the main trail from Nayapul and head on an off-road towards Ghandruk Phedi. We will drive through beautiful village sand picturesque fields of rice, barley,millet, potatoes, and other vegetables.

The view of mount Machhapuchre from Ghandruk Phedi is stunning. We will carry our luggage and start our trek from Ghandruk Phedi. We will take a short trek to Jhinu Danda today, where in lies the natural hot water spring. The road leading up to Jhinu is pleasant with the beautiful view of the Landruk village to our right. We will cross a long and high suspension bridge over Kimrong Khola after walking for a short while from Ghandruk Phedi. Another hour of the walk takes us to Jhinu Danda.
We will unpack our luggage at a guest house there and head 15 minutes downwards to the bank of the Modi River. Here lies the hot spring of Jhinu. It is believed that bathing at these springs’ cures people of skin and bone-related ailments. We will spend some time relaxing at the hot water spring in Jhinu and climb back towards Jhinu Danda. We will rest by the fireside for some time and slip into our bed after dinner.

  • Max. Altitude
    830m/2723ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 03

Jhinu danda to Sinuwa . Walking 6 hours.

We will start our trek from Sinuwa after early morning breakfast. The settlements are far-flungnow except for some small clusters of guest houses and homes of the local people. Places like Bamboo, Khuldi Ghar, and Dovan provide us welcome respite with hot tea served by the people of the hotel. We will also have our thermos and water flasks filled with hot water during breaks.

The road is steadily upwards, and the forest starts to get deeper as we move along. Sunlight is scarce because it is often blocked by the mountains and the canopy. The view of the deep glacial valley on our right is astounding. The Annapurna Massif projects towards the sky like a magical wall of snow ahead of us. The view of Machhapuchhre (fishtail)from our trekking tail is particularly noteworthy. We will encounter dense bamboo forest after reaching the place known as Bamboo. We will also see pipes used for hydroelectricity projects in the Modi River during our trek. We will reach Deurali in the evening and rest at a guest house there.

  • Max. Altitude
    2310m/7576ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 04

Sinuwa to Deurali. Walking 6 hours

We will start our trek towards the Annapurna Base Camp today. The first part of the trek up to the Himalayas passes through forests which gets sparser as we move along. The road goes up and down a little and can often be slippery. We will rest for some time in the Himalayas and take our lunch. We will reach the banks of the Modi river after walking for a short while from the Himalayas. There are two route options from here – cross the Modi River and walk along the other bank or walk along same bank.
The two routes are almost parallel and converge near Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m/12,139 ft). However, if you are trekking during peak winter it is better if you walk along the opposite bank because the near bank has a risk of avalanche. Narrow passageway between Machhapuchhre and Himchuli Mountain is located near Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). This passageway is the only route towards the Annapurna Base Camp from the valley below. The Machhapuchhre Mountain has never been climbed as the locals hold the mountain sacred and it is considered ominous to climb the peak. The Base Camp is therefore only symbolic and is a resting spot for trekkers on their way to Annapurna Base Camp. The walk from Machhapurche Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp takes about one and a half hours (two hours at most). Deep snow marks our track and if we are trekking during spring, we can see Danphe (the national bird of Nepal) in the mountain slopes to our right. Annapurna Base Camp is located in the middle of a small valley-like circle formed by mountains like Annapurna, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Gandharva Chuli. The rare sight of Machhapuchhre from its northern slope is visible from Annapurna Base Camp. We will rest at
guest house in Annapurna Base Camp for the night.

  • Max. Altitude
    3150m/10332ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 05

Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4090m). Walking 4:30 hours.

We will wake up early so that we can catch the first glimpse of the sun rising over the giganticpeaks of the Annapurna Massif. There is a spot at a few minutes’ walk from Annapurna BaseCamp, which provides a stunning view of the mountains including the view of the glacier in theravine below. The sun lighting over the two fins of Fish Tail Mountain provides a view for a lifetime.
We will come back to our guest house after enjoying an early morning spectacle with the mountains.
We will begin our return trek after breakfast. The first part of the trek is to the narrow escapeway between Fish Tail and Himchuli Mountain. We will go further down from here, walking along the banks of the Modi River, until we reach the small settlement of Bamboo. We will warm ourselves by the fireside in a guest house at bamboo and slide into our bed following dinner.

  • Max. Altitude
    4090m/13415ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 06

Annapurna base camp to Bamboo (2210m) Walking 6:30 hours

We will head back towards Jhinu Danda today. Today’s part of the trek is a pleasant downwardstroll among the silent woods of the Annapurna Sanctuary. One particular climb – from the baseof Chhomrong Khola to Upper Chhomrong – is difficult otherwise today is one of the easiest days of our trek. The view of Chhomrong village on the other hill across the river right after crossing Sinuwa is spectacular.
We will go down to the river through wide stone pavements and again climb up to the top of Chhomrong village, from where Jhinu Danda is clearly visible in the foot of the Modi River on the other side of the hill. We will often come across mule caravans which are the sole means of transport in this region. After reaching Chhomrong, we will begin a forty-five-minute descent toward Jhinu Danda. We can again go back to the Jhinu hot spring if we are willing and have time to spare. We can see light coming out from the Landruk village in distance during the evening.

  • Max. Altitude
    2210m/7250ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 07

Bamboo to Pokhara. Trek to Ghaundrung Phedi then drive by Jeep to Pokhara. Walking 5 hours & Driving 3:30 hours.

We will bid farewell to Jhinu Danda after breakfast and start our trek. The trek is easy and takes us through level hillsides. We will cross the suspension bridge over Kimrong Khola after walking about an hour from Jhinu Danda. The view of the gorging Kimrong Khola below from the suspension bridge is spectacular. We will also see the meeting point of the Kimrong and Modi rivers from the suspension bridge.We will rest for tea upon reaching Ghandruk Phedi. The Ghandruk village, which is known for it home stays and beautiful view of the mountains, is located at ten minutes of a hike from Ghandruk Phedi. We can explore the village and learn more about the culture of the local Gurung people if we have enough time. We will board a jeep to Pokhara from Ghandruk Phedi. Please note that Jeep might not always be readily available upon return to Ghandruk Phedi from Jhinu Danda. In such cases, we might also need to board on a local bus to Pokhara.

We will reach Pokhara after three and hours of drive. We will check into our hotel and walk along the Fewa lakeside. Pokhara is a beautiful tourist town with vibrant nightlife. We will enjoy a pleasant evening at the lakeside and go back to our hotel.

  • Max. Altitude
    900m/2952ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 08

Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Driving 6 hou

The view of the mountains from Pokhara during sunrise, especially the reflection of fishtail onthe Phewa Lake is spectacular. We will wake up early to catch this spectacular sight and boardon a tourist bus back to Kathmandu following breakfast. The bus ride is a joy ride along the Prithvi highway which serpents along the banks of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers for the most part. These two rivers are among the main tributaries of the Narayani River, the deepest river in Nepal.You will see the mid-altitude parts of the Mahabharata range during the ride back. Beautiful classical Nepali villages are seen along both banks of the river during the ride. We will also come across some highway towns like Damauli, Muglin, Gajuri, Malekhu, and Naubise.
The last part of the highway, just before entering Kathmandu valley, goes up from Naubise to the Nagdhunga Pass like a swirling snake. You will see the wide and clustered Kathmandu valley after entering Nagdhunga Pass. We will transfer you to your hotel after boarding off the bus nearthe tourist town of Thamel. Our trip ends after you check in to your hotel.

  • Max. Altitude
    1345m/4412ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 09

The trip ends

The trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you to the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal. Driving 15 km – 10 minutes

  • Meal
    Breakfast

Pricing

Price for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in different currency as follows:

Currency Pricing USD Euro AUD CAD Indian Rupees
Price per person US$ 875 804 1,308 1,182 58,013

WANT TO KNOW LATEST DEALS ?
For latest offers & pricing for group & individual, please contact us.

Service Includes and Excludes

Service Included in this Trip

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary. 
  • Hotel in Kathmandu, inclusive breakfast at 3 stars level (1 night- Before trekking and 1 night after trekking).
  • Hotel in Pokhara, inclusive breakfast at 3 stars level (1 night)
  • Meals 3 times a day ( Breakfast, lunch and dinner) in trekking & Pokhara for you.  
  • Seasonable Local fresh fruits after dinner.  
  • Filtered water in trekking using (Katadyn Pocket Water Filter)
  • Twin sharing private comfortable room in trekking.
  • Annapurna trekking Map. 
  • Domestic flight tickets from Kathmandu to Pokhara, inclusive taxes.
  • First aid medical kit, Ox meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.
  • Trip achievement certificate.  
  • An experienced, knowledgeable, helpful and English-speaking trekking  guide.
  • Strong and friendly mountain porter to carry your trekking baggage. 
  • Food, drinks, accommodation, insurance, salary, equipment’s, transportation, local tax for Guide and porter.  
  • Four season sleeping bag and down jackets to use for trekking, if necessary. 
  • All necessary paper works .
  • Annapurna Conservation entry permit. 
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System). 
  • Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement which will be paid by your insurance company.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All our government taxes, vat, local tax, tourist service charges.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (Except Farewell Dinner)
  •  All kinds of drinks (Hot/cold & alcoholic) in trekking.
  • Personal equipment.
  •  Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Extra personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, laundry, shower, excess baggage charges).
  • Tips for trekking staffs and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section.

Fixed Departure

Please, kindly note that following starting date will be your arrival date in Nepal and ending date will be your return date from Nepal after the trip completion.

Year
  • 2023
  • 2024
Start Date End Date Availability Booking
02 Aug, 2023 09 Aug, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Aug, 2023 17 Aug, 2023 OPEN Book Now
16 Aug, 2023 24 Aug, 2023 OPEN Book Now
23 Aug, 2023 31 Aug, 2023 OPEN Book Now
30 Aug, 2023 07 Sep, 2023 OPEN Book Now
02 Sep, 2023 11 Sep, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Sep, 2023 19 Sep, 2023 OPEN Book Now
16 Sep, 2023 26 Sep, 2023 OPEN Book Now
23 Sep, 2023 01 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
30 Sep, 2023 08 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
02 Oct, 2023 10 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Oct, 2023 17 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
16 Oct, 2023 24 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
23 Oct, 2023 31 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
30 Oct, 2023 07 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
02 Nov, 2023 10 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Nov, 2023 17 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
16 Nov, 2023 24 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
23 Nov, 2023 01 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
30 Nov, 2023 08 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
02 Dec, 2023 10 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Dec, 2023 19 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
16 Dec, 2023 24 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
23 Dec, 2023 31 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
30 Dec, 2023 07 Jan, 2024 OPEN Book Now

Does our itinerary plan do not go with your holiday dates? Does fixed departure dates are not suitable for you? Do you want to extend or shorten your trip duration? No worries, we can create your own custom tailor-made holidays with flexible duration and dates.
Click here to share your plan with us.

Trip Info

The trip to Annapurna Base Camp embarks with Kathmandu’s Arrival. Similarly, After arriving at Kathmandu visitors can tour the Kathmandu valley. Similarly, after that Kathmandu to Pokhara (910m) by tourist bus. Likewise, Drive to Naya Pul (New bridge), and trek to Tikhe Dhunga (1495m). Then, Trek to Ghorepani. After, Morning visit Poon Hill( 3190m) and trek to Tadapani (2520m).

Similarly, from there Trek to Sinuwa and then Trek to Deurali. After that Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,090m). Then, trek to Sinuwa and Ghaundrung ( 1940m). Likewise, the trip is at its last where one needs to Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara then drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Lastly, after that departure from Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp?

Annapurna Base Camp can be done throughout the year. However, the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp is during the Spring and Autumn seasons. Furthermore, this trip can be done during the Monsoon Season too. But, the Spring and autumn season is very suitable for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. During this time of the year, the weather is pleasant and you can travel with the clear visibility of the surroundings.

Likewise, you can enjoy the beautiful views of mountains in the Annapurna Region including the Annapurna Massif. In addition, if you travel here during this time of the year then you can enjoy the biggest festivals of the country Dashain and Tihar as this time is the festive season in the country. Furthermore, traveling to Nepal during this time of the year will make you knowledgeable about the culture and tradition of the place. Additionally, you can also explore different other festivals of the country.

What are the difficulties that I will face at the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

How long is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

Which base camp trek is harder Everest or Annapurna?

How much does the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost?

Which trek is better: Annapurna or Everest Base Camp Trek?

How many miles is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Why does the Annapurna have that many avalanches?

What are Mountains will you see from the Annapurna Base Camp?

Is Annapurna Base Camp trek safe?

How tall is Annapurna Mountain?

Can you climb the Annapurna Base Camp Trek alone?

Do I need a climbing permit for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Can you have altitude sickness on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

What is the food price at Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Grade A: Easy *

Trekking is essentially day hiking and doesn’t require any special training. However, good physical condition, a love of walking, and a desire to enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains and encounter village life are essential. We offer a diverse range of easy treks. Categorizing a trek as easy means that no difficult climbing or ascents to high altitudes is involved. They take usually no more than a week and are suitable for anyone. Be assured that a loss of altitude in no way means a loss of interesting things to see and experience. While our more challenging treks get you closer to a small number of mountain ranges, lower altitude treks often provide better viewpoints from which to enjoy the colorful horizons of a whole series of ranges. The duration of a trek can be from 4 to 9 days with an average of 4 to 5 hours walking per day. The elevation of the trail will be between 800m/2624ft and 2800m/ 9240ft above sea level.

Grade B: Moderate **

These treks are suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. They are a combination of some longer and shorter walks and hill-walking experience is desirable. The duration is usually from 10 to 15 days. Following the up and down terrain of Nepal and walking to higher elevations contrasts these treks to those in the easy classification. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular close-up views of glaciers and of the high Himalayas. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. There may be up to 6 hours a day on the trail and the elevation rises and falls from 800m/ 2624ft to 4000m/13210ft above sea level.

Grade C: Fairly Strenuous ***

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should except to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

Grade D: Strenuous ****

These real adventure treks are both technical and highly strenuous. Excellent physical condition is essential and mountaineering experience is preferable. Following rough terrain, they involve steep ascents to high altitudes with the possibility of some rope climbing. Stamina is needed to complete one of these treks, as it can take from 20 to 28 days to reach the heart of the wildernesses that they transverse. Participants should except to trek above 5600m/18480ft

EQUIPMENTS & GEARS

EQUIPMENTS, GEARS AND GUIDES

Nepal is one of the best places in the world for river rafting. Numerous fine rivers offer excellent opportunities for rafting, canoeing and simply immersing oneself in the magnificent landscape. Nepal’s thundering waters, coming from the glaciers of the mighty Himalayan, provide unmatched thrills.

Clothing

Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers 1
Fleece Jacket Or Pullover 1
Warm Cotton Trousers 2 Pairs
Shirts And T-Shirts 4 Pieces
Lightweight Cotton Long Pants 3 Pairs
Long Under Wear 2 Pieces
Short Under Wear 4 Pieces
Sun Hat Or Scarf 1
Woolen Hat 1
Sunglasses 1
Lightweight Gloves 1
Rain Coat 1
Heavyweight Gloves Or Mittens With A Waterproof 1

Footwear

Trekking Boot 1 Pair
Thick Socks 4 Pairs
Light Socks 3 Pairs
Camp Shoes 1 Pair
Sandals 1 Pair

Other Equipments

Sleeping Bag(4seasons) 1
Down Jacket 1
Daypack 1
Water Bottle 1
Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Flashlight With Spare Bulbs, Batteries, Lip Salve, Gaiters.

Optional

Insect Repellent Toilet Articles Note Book & Pen Toilet Roll
Laundry Soap Pocket Knife Towel Sewing Kit
Plasters Binoculars Camera Film
Cards And Personal Medical Kit

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc.

For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please go through the links below:

For Canadians And Americans

  1. http://www.travelguard.com
  2. http://www.worldnomads.com
  3. http://www.mondial-assistance.ca
  4. http://www.travelassistnetwork.com
  5. http://www.travelex-insurance.com
  6. http://www.travelite.com
  7. http://www.travelunderwriters.com
  8. http://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance

For Australians And New Zealanders

  1. http://www.covermore.com.au
  2. http://www.allianz.com.au
  3. http://www.worldnomads.com.au
  4. http://www.bupa.com.au
  5. http://www.itrektravelinsurance.com.au
  6. http://www.1cover.com.au

For British

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.uk
  2. http://www.worldnomads.co.uk
  3. http://www.thebmc.co.uk
  4. http://www.direct-travel.co.uk
  5. http://www.essentialtravel.co.uk

For Europe And Slovenia

  1. http://www.coris.si
  2. http://www.europaeische.at

For South-Africa

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.za
  2. http://www.tic.co.za

For Indians

  1. http://www.internationalsos.com/en/asia-pacific_india.htm

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common at high altitudes sickness. In general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. The symptoms of altitude sickness are due to lower air pressure at high altitudes, which results in lower oxygen levels as you breathe the air in. The air is under less pressure and this makes it harder for your body to get the oxygen out of the air and into the circulation. It’s this extra strain on the body that causes altitude sickness.

Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, and lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom.

MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

INITIAL SYMPTOMS

  1. Periods of sleeplessness
  2. Runny nose.
  3. Extra tiredness
  4. Occasional loss of appetite
  5. Feeling laziness
  6. Wish to vomiting
  7. Periodic breathing

Above are normal symptoms which may occur into your body that you should not be worried. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

ADVANCE SYMPTOMS

  1. Headache and vomiting
  2. Dizziness
  3. Racing heartbeat
  4. Exhaustion
  5. Nausea
  6. Diarrhoea
  7. Loss of apatite
  8. Weakness
  9. Hard to breath
  10. Extra tired
  11. Dry Raspy cough
  12. Sleeplessness

When above symptoms will occur into your body, these symptoms usually resolve by spending one or two extra nights at the same altitude or using medicine. Even you are resting at the same altitude or using medicine, if symptoms are becoming worse, then it is necessary to descend.

SERIOUS SYMPTOMS

  1. Worsening headache and vomiting
  2. Swelling of hands and face
  3. Reduced urine output
  4. Walking with a staggering gait
  5. Confusion
  6. Increased tiredness
  7. Breathing irregularity
  8. Visual hallucinations (seeing things that are not real)
  9. Changes in the ability to think
  10. Changes in normal behavior

If above serious symptoms will occur into your body, these extremely dangerous symptoms are called High Altitude Cerebral Edema (or HACE). They can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours. Increasing shortness of breath, cough and tiredness may also be signs of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HAPE. HAPE can also be rapidly fatal if ignored.

TO PREVENT ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

  1. If possible, don’t fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) and walk up.
  2. If you do fly or drive, do not overexert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours.
  3. If you go above 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), only increase your altitude by 350 to 500 metres (1,000 feet) per day
  4. Climb high and sleep low! You can climb more than 300 to 500 metres in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude.
  5. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease.
  6. Drink plenty of water, tea or juice etc (at least three to 4 liters per day). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.
  7. Eat high-carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, cereal) for more energy.
  8. Take it easy and don’t overexert yourself when you first get up to altitude. But, light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.
  9. Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don’t smoke.
  10. Don’t push yourself when climbing up to passes, rather take plenty of breaks.
  11. Avoid taking sleeping pills.
  12. Avoid active movements and try to relax in the first one or two days upon arrival at the high altitude areas.
  13. Bring adequate medicine.
  14. If nothing else works, return to the areas with the lower elevation.
  15. Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  16. Don’t make rapid Ascent. Don’t go too far too fast.
  17. Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  18. Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  19. Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  20. Never leave or descent sick person along.
  21. Avoid getting cold.
  22. Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer

MEDICINE

Following is a list of items you should consider including in your medical kit – consult your pharmacist for brands available in your country.

  1. Aspirin or paracetamol – for pain or fever
  2. Antihistamine – for allergies, eg hay fever; to ease the itch from insect bites or stings; and to prevent motion sickness.
  3. Antibiotics consider including these if you’re traveling well off the beaten track’ see your doctor, as they must be prescribed, and carry the prescription with you.
  4. Loperamides or Diphenoxylate ‘blockers’ for diarrhea’ Prochlorperazine or metaclopramide for nausea and vomiting.
  5. Rehydration mixture to prevent dehydration, eg due to severe diarrhea; particularly important when traveling with children.
  6. Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm and eye drops.
  7. Calamine lotion, sting relief spray or aloe vera-to ease irritation from sunburn and insect bites or stings.
  8. Antifungal cream or powder – for fungal skin infections and thrush.
  9. Antiseptic, such as povidone-iodine for cuts and grazes.
  10. Bandages, band-aids or plasters and other would dressings.
  11. Scissors, tweezers and a thermometer (note that mercury thermometers are prohibited by airlines)
  12. Cold and Flu tablets, throat lozenges and nasal decongestant.
  13. Multivitamines – consider for long trips, when dietary vitamin intake may be inadequate.