What is acute mountain sickness/altitude sickness, and should I worry about it?

AMS or altitude sickness is essentially the negative effects of high elevations on the human body. This has nothing to do with the altitude itself but with the low air pressure and thin oxygen concentrations in the air. The symptoms of AMS start showing above 7,500 feet in the form of headaches, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, shortness of breath, etc. It is recommended that if you feel any of these symptoms, you stop gaining altitude and rest for a while. Under no circumstances should you continue ascending as your condition will not get better over time, and if ignored, it can be fatal. If these symptoms don't improve, then you must descend back to a safer altitude as soon as possible. To avoid AMS, it is recommended that you spend at least a day acclimatizing, although some might need a couple of days to properly acclimatize. Additionally, always stay hydrated and eat well, and take Diamox to cope with higher altitudes. You shouldn't worry though, as all the itineraries listed on The Great Next website for the Annapurna Base Camp trek are designed keeping acclimatization in mind

Do I need prior experience for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

Annapurna Base Camp trek is an arduous trek that requires you to walk for long durations at a stretch for more than a week at higher altitudes. This makes it a challenging endeavour. Hence, a high level of fitness, as well as prior experience of trekking in the Himalayas, is required. If you're planning the trek to Annapurna Base Camp, then you can start preparing a few months prior by doing any form of exercise that will build your stamina and endurance along with improving your breathing, like cycling, running, swimming, yoga, etc.

What is the accommodation like on the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

The ABC trek is a classic teahouse trek in Nepal where you'll spend the nights in cosy teahouses. These teahouses have a simple structure with basic furniture and facilities with most having a dorm-style room for sleeping. Although some do have twin/triple sharing rooms that you can upgrade to. Additionally, most teahouses have shared bathrooms, and usually, there is no hot water provided for baths On the trek, you'll have your meals at the various teahouses along the trail. These teahouses serve basic food in Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine that is nutritious and filling. Do note to check the inclusions of your package thoroughly as some budget operators do not provide meals and they have to be had on your own expense, which can get expensive in remote Nepal

How often will I get to shower during the ABC trek?

You should expect to have 3-4 showers during the trek since it is unessential to have showers at higher altitudes, and not all teahouses have hot water facilities. The tour operator will instruct you on how to maintain hygiene during the trek, so you need not worry about it.

Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek dangerous?

Not really. The trail for the ABC trek is moderately challenging with few steep sections. Apart from this, the trail is relatively safe. As long as you follow proper acclimatization process and don't push yourself, you'll be safe. But do remember the weather can be unpredictable in the Himalayas, so always stay close to the guide and follow their instructions. The tour operators hold safety as their utmost priority and will make changes to the itinerary to suit safety standards if required. Another point to remember is the trail is frequented by herds of cattle like yaks and mules, and they have the right of way. If you see them approaching, always stick to the inside of the trail so you're not accidentally pushed off into the valley.

Can I rent or buy personal gear in Kathmandu?

Yes, there are many stores where you can rent or buy gear in Kathmandu. Remember to only buy good quality gear, though, because your experience of the trek depends on your comfort, and if you are not comfortable, you will not enjoy the trek. Make sure you carry everything the tour operator has asked you to.

What is the best time to go for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

There are two time-windows every year when you can go for the ABC trek. First, from October to November, when the weather is stable. This is the post-monsoon window, so the landscape is flourishing with lush greenery and the skies are clear, ensuring great views of the Himalayan Peaks. The second window is from March to May. During these months, the weather is warm but it can be a bit hazy/foggy during the day which can obstruct the views. But this is the time when the trail is relatively less crowded. Doing the ABC trek during the monsoon season is not recommended due to the unpredictable conditions, heavy rains and slippery trail.

Is adventure travel insurance mandatory?

Yes, the Nepal government has made it mandatory to have adventure travel insurance for treks like Annapurna Base Camp trek. Remember to check the inclusions of the package you're booking thoroughly since some budget packages do not provide insurance.

Should I do the Annapurna Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Circuit trek?

Although both the treks showcase the splendid views of the Annapurna Massif, the base camp trek only takes you to the base camp on a 9-14 days itinerary, whereas the circuit trek takes you around the Annapurna Massif on 15-20 days itineraries. The circuit trek is also over 200 km long. If you just want to experience teahouse trekking and see the Annapurna Massif from the base camp, then the base camp trek is perfect for you. It is moderately challenging but can be done if you have little experience of trekking in the Himalayas. The Annapurna Circuit trek, however, is arduous and should only be attempted if you have very high fitness levels and prior experience of trekking at higher altitudes in the Himalayas as it requires you to cross the Thorong La at 17,769 feet.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Trekking the Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

Name: Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Brand: The Great Next
SKU: annapurna-base-camp-trek
Availability: InStock
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States
Nepal
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Trekking
Days
9
13
14
15
19
Price range

₹ 26500 - ₹ 102000
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  9 Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek Kathmandu ,Nepal
  
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  15-day Annapurna Circuit trek Kathmandu ,Nepal
  
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  19-day Annapurna Circuit Trek Kathmandu ,Nepal
  
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Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview

Annapurna Base Camp is located at the foot of the magnificent Annapurna Massif, at an altitude of 13,500 feet. It is a splendid amphitheatre of soaring mountain peaks like Annapurna Himal, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Huinchuli, Gangapurna, etc., along with several cerulean glaciers that cut across the landscape.

But the Annapurna Base Camp trek is not only popular for the dramatic views, but also because of the splendid trail that cuts across the Annapurna Conservation Area, arguably one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in the world. The sanctuary protects not only the rich flora and fauna but also exotic tradition and culture of remote Nepal.

The trail passes through both dense forests of pine, oak and rhododendrons, and through the barren Himalayan landscape past the tree-line to reach the base camp. And along the way, halting at several quaint villages like Bamboo, Sinwa, Dovan, etc., letting you experience the rich culture of Gurung and Magar regions. You also get to cross several symphonic streams, swaying wooden bridges, and gliding farmlands en route.

Annapurna Base Camp trek, because of these reasons, has become one of the most popular teahouse treks in Nepal, and a great alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek. It is a heady mix of magnificent natural beauty paired with the fascinating culture and warm hospitality of the remote Himalayan villages of Nepal. And additionally, the fun experience of spending several nights in cosy teahouses with locals as well as trekkers from around the world.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

If you are an experienced trekker looking for an endurance testing trek in Nepal, then you should check out the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This is an arduous trek that goes around the Annapurna Massif via a trail that covers nearly 220 km across two different river valleys of Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki. The trek goes across four regions of Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Myagdi, showcasing a variety of landscape and weather, from lush forests to arid deserts.

On the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you trek along the foot of some of the world's highest mountains like Manaslu (an Eight Thousander peak), Langtang Himal, Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, etc. And you also cross the mighty Thorong La, located at an altitude of 17,769 feet at the edge of the Tibetan Plateau.

Annapurna Base Camp trek packages

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a classic teahouse trek in Nepal where you will spend the nights in cosy teahouses with the locals. The package cost ranges from INR 27,000 to INR 65,000. These costs depend on the itinerary and inclusions. Some itineraries are 9 days, and some are 14 days. And with regards to inclusions, some tour operators provide all the meals and travel arrangements from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back, whereas some budget operators only provide accommodations in teahouses without meals.

Explore more adventure activities in Nepal that you can book with the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Connectivity on the Annapurna Base Camp trek

Connectivity is something you need to consider while going for a trek in the Himalayas. The good thing about trekking in Nepal is that you'll get mobile network almost everywhere, though it can be weak sometimes. As for the internet, some places like Ghandruk and Ghorepani have internet that you can use, but it can be slow and expensive.

An important point to be noted is that there are no ATMs after Pokhara, therefore remember to withdraw sufficient cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before you begin your trek. Although Indian Rupees are accepted in most places, it is recommended that you carry only Nepalese Rupees during your trek to avoid any hassle.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Summary
- State: Nepal
- Nearest city: Kathmandu
- Total days: 9 -19 days
- Grade: Difficult
- Max altitude: 13,549 feet/17,769 feet
- Total trekking distance: 75 to 218 km
- Season: September to mid-December
- Avg. temperature: -10 to 23 degree Celsius
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Sketch itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
- Altitude: 4,600 feet
- Meet your trek leader and team
- Explore Kathmandu
- Overnight stay: Hostel
Day 2: Bus to Pokhara
- Altitude: 4,600 feet
- Driving distance: 200 km
- Drive duration: 7 hours
- Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas along with the Trishuli River
- Overnight stay: Hostel
Day 3: Bus ride to Nayapul followed by a trek to Ghandruk
- Altitude: 6,500 feet
- Drive to Nayapul: 40 km, 2 hours
- Trekking distance:12 km
- Trekking duration: 6 hours
- Get your first glimpse of the peaks of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Himchuli mountains
- Overnight stay: Teahouse
Day 4: Trek to Sinuwa
- Altitude: 7578 feet
- Trekking distance: 11 km
- Trekking duration: 6 hours
- Trek through dense rhododendron and oak forests and across various streams along the way
- Overnight stay: Teahouse
Day 5: Trek to Deurali
- Altitude: 10,499 feet
- Trekking distance: 11 km
- Trekking duration: 7 hours
- Trek along a moderately challenging trail crossing the villages of Bamboo and Dovan
- Overnight stay: Teahouse
Day 6: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
- Altitude: 13,500 feet
- Trekking distance: 12 km
- Trekking duration: 6 hours
- Follow a trail through barren landscape and glacial moraines
- Trek past Machhapuchhre Base Camp
- Overnight stay: Teahouse
Day 7: Trek to Bamboo
- Altitude: 8,200 feet
- Trekking distance: 13 km
- Trekking duration: 9 hours
- Downhill trek past Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp
- Overnight stay: Teahouse
Day 8: Trek to Jhinu Hot Springs
- Altitude: 5,600 feet
- Trekking distance: 8 km
- Trekking duration: 6 hours
- Relax and rejuvenate at the hot springs of Jhinu
- Overnight stay: Teahouse
Day 9: Trek to Nayapul followed by a bus ride to Pokhara
- Altitude: 3,510 feet
- Trekking distance: 4 km
- Trekking duration: 4 hours
- Drive: 40 km, 2 hours
- Bid farewell to the Annapurna Conservation Area
- Overnight stay: Teahouse
Day 10: Bus ride to Kathmandu
- Driving distance: 200 km
- Drive duration: 7 hours
- Enjoy a scenic ride back to Kathmandu
- Overnight stay: Hostel
Day 11: Depart from Kathmandu
- Bid farewell to your trek leader and team
- Depart from Kathmandu
Detailed itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

Report to the Kathmandu Airport today where the tour operator will pick you up from. You’ll be driven to the hostel where you’ll spend the rest of the day relaxing and making last-minute preparations.

Day 2: Bus to Pokhara

Today, you’ll board the bus to Pokhara in the morning. it is a long drive of around 7 hours along the Trishuli River. En route, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. You’ll reach the hostel in Pokhara by evening.

Day 3: Bus ride to Nayapul followed by a trek to Ghandruk

Today, you’ll begin the day with a short drive to Nayapul, followed by a trek to Ghandruk. The long trail passes through hayfields across several rivers. You’ll also get your first views of the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna, Himchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Overnight in a teahouse at Ghandruk.

Day 4: Trek to Sinuwa

Today, you’ll trek to Sinuwa, past the quaint village of Kimrong Danda, and through oak and rhododendron forests. You’ll also cross Chhomrong just before reaching Sinuwa. Overnight in a teahouse at Sinuwa.

Day 5: Trek to Deurali

Today’s trek takes you to Deurali via a moderately challenging trail, especially the final stretch up a steep hill. En route, you’ll cross the villages of Bamboo and Dovan, through dense oak and pine forests before reaching Deurali that is located at the foot of the enormous Machhapuchhre mountain. Overnight in a teahouse at Deurali.

Day 6: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Today is the day you’ll finally trek to Annapurna Base Camp. You’ll notice the landscape transform from forests to barren mountains and glacial moraines. En route, you’ll also stop by Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Overnight in a teahouse at Annapurna Base Camp.

Day 7: Trek to Bamboo

Today, you’ll wake up early and begin your return trek along the familiar route, passing Machhapuchhre Base camp and Deurali. As you trek along, the route will become easier. Overnight in a teahouse at Bamboo.

Day 8: Trek to Jhinu Hot Springs

Today, you’ll continue on the same route, retracing your treks till you reach Chhomrong. From there, you’ll head to the Jhinu Village where you will relax in the natural hot water springs after a long trek. Overnight in a teahouse at Jhinu.

Day 9: Trek to Nayapul followed by a bus ride to Pokhara

Today is the last trek of your trip as you head to Nayapul, along the Modi Khola River. You’ll exit Annapurna Conservation Area before reaching Nayapul from where you will be driven to Pokhara. Overnight in a hostel at Pokhara.

Day 10: Bus ride to Kathmandu

Today, you’ll board the tourist bus to Kathmandu with your team. It is a 7-hour journey and you’ll reach the city by late afternoon. You can spend the evening either shopping or relaxing in your hostel room. Overnight in a teahouse at Kathmandu.

Day 11: Depart from Kathmandu

Today is the last day of your trip. You’ll wake up, bid farewell to your team and head to the airport to catch your flight home. The trip ends here.

Inclusions

The package for Annapurna Base Camp trek includes accommodation in hostels in Kathmandu and Pokhara on twin/triple sharing basis, and in teahouses on trekking days on a multi-sharing basis. The cost also includes travel arrangements between Kathmandu and Pokhara in a tourist bus, and between Pokhara and Nayapul in a private vehicle.

Apart from this, the price includes adventure travel insurance along with emergency evacuation costs and general medicines. The package also includes services of porters to carry personal luggage and services of an experienced trek leader with a support crew. Lastly, the price includes all international payment transfer fees and applicable taxes.

Exclusions

The package for Annapurna Base Camp trek does not include any kind of travel arrangements/expenses between your home-city and Kathmandu, or any kind of Nepal visa arrangements. The cost also does not include any kind of meals, trekking gear, personal expenses such as tips, water, hot water shower, etc.

Any kind of expenses that arise out of unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, political disturbance, flight cancellation, etc., nor does it include any additional cost due to fluctuations based on international currency exchange rates at the time of booking. Anything not mentioned in the inclusions is also not included in the package.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Photos
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- Walk in snow, witness some of the tallest peaks in the world and feel humbled with the Annapurna Base Camp trek
Best time to go/Weather

Although the weather can be unpredictable for most months, there are two windows in a year when the weather is more or less stable. The popular of the two is from October to November, i.e. post-monsoon, when the landscape is flush with greenery and the skies are clear, offering great views.

The second window is from March to May when the weather is generally clear and warm, but there is a chance of haze during the day. This season is preferred by some because the route is not as crowded.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is not recommended during the monsoon season because there are heavy rains, and the trail can get slippery and risky.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek - Route Map / Altitude Map
- Check maximum and minimum altitudes for every day of the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal
- Check the trekking route map for the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal
Annapurna Base Camp Trek - Frequently Asked Questions

What is acute mountain sickness/altitude sickness, and should I worry about it?

AMS or altitude sickness is essentially the negative effects of high elevations on the human body. This has nothing to do with the altitude itself but with the low air pressure and thin oxygen concentrations in the air. The symptoms of AMS start showing above 7,500 feet in the form of headaches, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, shortness of breath, etc.

It is recommended that if you feel any of these symptoms, you stop gaining altitude and rest for a while. Under no circumstances should you continue ascending as your condition will not get better over time, and if ignored, it can be fatal. If these symptoms don't improve, then you must descend back to a safer altitude as soon as possible.

To avoid AMS, it is recommended that you spend at least a day acclimatizing, although some might need a couple of days to properly acclimatize. Additionally, always stay hydrated and eat well, and take Diamox to cope with higher altitudes.

You shouldn't worry though, as all the itineraries listed on The Great Next website for the Annapurna Base Camp trek are designed keeping acclimatization in mind

Do I need prior experience for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

Annapurna Base Camp trek is an arduous trek that requires you to walk for long durations at a stretch for more than a week at higher altitudes. This makes it a challenging endeavour. Hence, a high level of fitness, as well as prior experience of trekking in the Himalayas, is required.

If you're planning the trek to Annapurna Base Camp, then you can start preparing a few months prior by doing any form of exercise that will build your stamina and endurance along with improving your breathing, like cycling, running, swimming, yoga, etc.

What is the accommodation like on the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

The ABC trek is a classic teahouse trek in Nepal where you'll spend the nights in cosy teahouses. These teahouses have a simple structure with basic furniture and facilities with most having a dorm-style room for sleeping. Although some do have twin/triple sharing rooms that you can upgrade to. Additionally, most teahouses have shared bathrooms, and usually, there is no hot water provided for baths

On the trek, you'll have your meals at the various teahouses along the trail. These teahouses serve basic food in Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine that is nutritious and filling. Do note to check the inclusions of your package thoroughly as some budget operators do not provide meals and they have to be had on your own expense, which can get expensive in remote Nepal

How often will I get to shower during the ABC trek?

You should expect to have 3-4 showers during the trek since it is unessential to have showers at higher altitudes, and not all teahouses have hot water facilities. The tour operator will instruct you on how to maintain hygiene during the trek, so you need not worry about it.

Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek dangerous?

Not really. The trail for the ABC trek is moderately challenging with few steep sections. Apart from this, the trail is relatively safe. As long as you follow proper acclimatization process and don't push yourself, you'll be safe.

But do remember the weather can be unpredictable in the Himalayas, so always stay close to the guide and follow their instructions. The tour operators hold safety as their utmost priority and will make changes to the itinerary to suit safety standards if required.

Another point to remember is the trail is frequented by herds of cattle like yaks and mules, and they have the right of way. If you see them approaching, always stick to the inside of the trail so you're not accidentally pushed off into the valley.

Can I rent or buy personal gear in Kathmandu?

Yes, there are many stores where you can rent or buy gear in Kathmandu. Remember to only buy good quality gear, though, because your experience of the trek depends on your comfort, and if you are not comfortable, you will not enjoy the trek. Make sure you carry everything the tour operator has asked you to.

What is the best time to go for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

There are two time-windows every year when you can go for the ABC trek. First, from October to November, when the weather is stable. This is the post-monsoon window, so the landscape is flourishing with lush greenery and the skies are clear, ensuring great views of the Himalayan Peaks.

The second window is from March to May. During these months, the weather is warm but it can be a bit hazy/foggy during the day which can obstruct the views. But this is the time when the trail is relatively less crowded.

Doing the ABC trek during the monsoon season is not recommended due to the unpredictable conditions, heavy rains and slippery trail.

Is adventure travel insurance mandatory?

Yes, the Nepal government has made it mandatory to have adventure travel insurance for treks like Annapurna Base Camp trek. Remember to check the inclusions of the package you're booking thoroughly since some budget packages do not provide insurance.

Should I do the Annapurna Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Circuit trek?

Although both the treks showcase the splendid views of the Annapurna Massif, the base camp trek only takes you to the base camp on a 9-14 days itinerary, whereas the circuit trek takes you around the Annapurna Massif on 15-20 days itineraries. The circuit trek is also over 200 km long.

If you just want to experience teahouse trekking and see the Annapurna Massif from the base camp, then the base camp trek is perfect for you. It is moderately challenging but can be done if you have little experience of trekking in the Himalayas.

The Annapurna Circuit trek, however, is arduous and should only be attempted if you have very high fitness levels and prior experience of trekking at higher altitudes in the Himalayas as it requires you to cross the Thorong La at 17,769 feet.
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Getting There

For the Annapurna Base Camp trek, most operators arrange for the transport from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the starting point of the trek. The most convenient way to reach Kathmandu is by taking a flight to Tribhuvan International Airport. It is connected to most major cities of India by regular flights conducted by Air India, Royal Nepal, Indigo, etc.

You can also reach Kathmandu by bus from India. You first need to take a bus from Varanasi or Gorakhpur to Sunauli on the Indo-Nepal border, or a direct bus from Delhi to Kathmandu.

If your package does not include travel arrangements between Kathmandu and Pokhara, then you can go to the starting point on your own either by bus, taxi or flight. There are both tourist and local buses that connect the two cities, with local bus fare costing around INR 250 to 400 per person, and tourist bus fare costing around INR 400 to INR 500 per person.

You can hire a private taxi will cost you around INR 3200, making it an expensive choice or you can even catch a flight to Pokhara which will cost you around INR 7000 to 10,000 per person.

What To Wear

For the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you need to wear comfortable, quick-dry apparel like full sleeve t-shirt and full length trekking pants. Additionally, you also need to wear warm layers like down and fleece jacket, thermal inners, etc.

Apart from there, you need to wear good quality trekking shoes that are waterproof and sturdy, along with synthetic/woollen socks and gloves.

Also, carry raincoat/poncho and rain cover since the weather can be unpredictable in the Himalayas.

What To Carry

For the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you need to carry a sturdy and comfortable backpack and a small daypack. You also need to carry all the personal essentials and toiletries like tissue paper, first aid kit, personal medicines, toothbrush, etc.

And lastly, remember to carry sufficient cash as there are no ATMs on the trek once you cross Pokhara.

The tour operator will provide you with a comprehensive packing list that you need to follow carefully to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Preparation/Fitness

Annapurna Base Camp trek is a long trek of around 75 km that takes you to an altitude of over 13,000 feet. The trail demands that you walk for 7-8 hours every day for multiple days. Hence, a high level of fitness is required for the trek and it is recommended that you have prior experience of trekking in the Himalayas before you attempt the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

To prepare for the trek, you can start preparing a few months prior, depending on your fitness level. You should follow a workout routine consisting of both cardio and strength training that will help you cover long distances at higher altitudes where the oxygen is low.