Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 10 Days

Enjoy Ghorepani Poonhill View Point During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

En route to Annapurna Base Camp from Banthati, we will come across a beautiful Magar village, Ghorepani. The village sits at an elevation of 2800 meters and has many pretty teahouses, lodges, and homestays. We will stay here overnight on our second day of the trek. The Poon Hill View Tower lies just above the Ghorepani Village at 3210 meters elevation. It takes around an hour to reach the view tower from Ghorepani. Similarly, the trail mainly consists of stone staircases.Most trekkers climb to the view tower to witness the mesmerizing sunrise.

However, the gorgeous sunset view is no less stunning than the sunrise. We will climb to the Poon Hill View Tower early in the morning. The beautiful sunrise hues the entire snow-peaked mountains into warm golden colors. The sky acts as a perfect backdrop for the scenic view. From the view tower, you can witness mountains like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, Dhampus Peak, Nilgiri, Himchuli, and Gangapurna. The gorgeous sunrise is one of the highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek that you do not want to miss.

Culture, tradition, and Religion Throughout ABC Trek

You will experience the region’s diverse culture and tradition during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Most of the region’s residents belong to the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali ethnic groups. As you move to higher elevations, you will also encounter Tibetan settlements. Each ethnic group has its unique language, dress, culture, customs, festivals, and beliefs. For example, the women from the Gurung community wear Lungi while men wear Bhangro. Magar women wear traditional attire known as Chaubandhi cholo, while men wear Kaachhad. Similarly, the famous Ghatu dance belongs to the Gurung community, and the Maruni dance belongs to the Magar.

The residents of the lower parts of the Annapurna region mostly follow Hinduism. Meanwhile, the residents at higher elevations follow Buddhism. You will also come across ancient monasteries and stupas, which reflect the influence of Tibetan Buddhism. Some ethnic groups also follow their indigenous religion. But one thing is common to them all: their warm and friendly hospitality. The teahouses, lodges, and homestays are common accommodations in the Annapurna region. Locals run these places along the trails. They offer authentic local cuisine, which you can taste during the trek. Thus, the trek to Annapurna Base Camp is not only an adventure but also a cultural exploration. The trek offers an enriching and fulfilling experience.

Jhinu Hot Springs

After climbing to Annapurna Base Camp, we will descend to Bamboo and Jhinu Danda. At 1600 meters in elevation, the small village of Jhinu Danda is famous for its natural hot springs. To reach the hot springs, you must take a 30-minute hike on steep trails from the village. The hot spring pools lie on the Modi Khola Riverbank, and luscious trees surround it. You can soak and relax your tired muscles in the hot water while enjoying the views. Depending on the river conditions, you can also dip into the icy river waters. However, this is not possible when the river current is too strong, and the river level is too high. The hot springs will rejuvenate you, and you can return to the village to stay overnight.

The distance between Pokhara and Annapurna Base Camp is 81.1 kilometers. From Pokhara, you will drive to Sudame, covering 12 km. The trek begins from Sudame, and you will cover around 11 km of distance daily. The trek will last approximately 5 to 6 hours. Doubtlessly, the trek is long in distance, but once you start your journey, you don’t want to stop it and go back from there. The expedition to Annapurna Base Camp is beautiful through varied terrain, amazing landscapes, and unique culture.

The trek passes through the lovely village of Ghorepani, from where you’ll hike to Poon Hill (3,200m), a popular viewpoint offering an astonishing sunrise view. Likewise, the trail passes through the traditional villages of Tadapani, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, and Macchapuchhre Base Camp. The excursion takes you through lush valleys, pristine rivers, and natural hot springs, witnessing the mule trains carrying supplies to remote villages, breathtaking glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. You can relax in comfortable teahouses, meet friendly locals, and experience warm hospitality throughout your journey.

On the ABC trek, you can find several meal options at the teahouses. You can have meals per the lodge/teahouse menu. While the lower elevation has a vast range of meal options (from traditional Nepalese, Tibetan, and Western dishes), as you go higher, food choices become more limited, and prices increase. However, we provide three meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the finest tea house. Nepali set breakfast, porridge, pancakes, muesli, and toast are standard breakfast options. Likewise, options for lunch include Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup), Momo, thukpa, fried rice, chowmein, and sandwiches. Moreover, Dal Bhat, curry, spaghetti, and simple pizza are expected for dinner.

A hot water facility is also available at the tea house, but it costs extra. However, we suggest that trekkers bring some quick energy bars and light snacks to have while trekking. Moreover, keep in mind that staying hydrated throughout the trek is crucial as it helps reduce the risk of any altitude-related issue. Consider carrying a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water daily. You can refill your water from the tap, which is available throughout the trek, as buying 4-5 mineral water is impossible due to its high cost and limited availability. However, water purification tablets should be used to avoid any hazardous diseases.

You will find primarily teahouses, lodges, and homestay accommodations on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. They are budget-friendly and provide basic facilities. Generally, rooms with attached bathrooms are not available during the trek. Instead, you’ll have shared bathrooms. The facilities of the tea houses become minimal as you ascend to higher elevations. The room has a twin-sharing bed with a modest wooden bed along with a mattress, pillow, and blanket. The accommodation point also offers dining options per the menu and is served in the communal dining room with a heater in the middle. Moreover, charging facilities, WIFI, and hot showers are also available at the tea house but cost extra.

Our 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek package covers all your accommodations for the trek. We arrange your accommodations at lodges/tea houses on a twin-sharing basis during the trekking. Upon request, we can arrange luxury hotels for you at Kathmandu and Pokhara, but not during the trekking journey, as the accommodations are basic during the trail.

On the ABC trek, communication options are limited but available in most places. In lower areas, you can get mobile network coverage with Nepali SIM cards like NTC or Ncell. As you go to remote and high-altitude areas, the signals get weaker, and in some areas, there is no signal at all. Many tea houses have internet and Wi-Fi facilities, but they are usually slow, and you have to pay extra for them. When there is no mobile phone coverage or internet access, some teahouses or guides may have satellite phones for emergency communication.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Springtime weather is ideal for trekking, as it is neither hot nor cold. The typical daily temperature in spring ranges from 16 to 2 degrees Celsius. At night, the temperature can decrease by 2 or 3 degrees Celsius. In spring, the skies are clear, and you may enjoy unobstructed views of the stunning Himalayan ranges. It’s rhododendron blooming season, so bright flowers will cover the trails. Rhododendrons bloom in red, yellow, pink, and white, as well as other wildflowers, enhancing the trail’s appearance. Since now March to may be the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek, many people will be here.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another great season to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. During the Autumn, the sky will be clear and visible. The weather is dry, with the least chance of rain. You can see the breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas while trekking in favorable weather. The mornings and evenings are cool, but the days are pleasant and sunny. The average daily temperature in fall ranges from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the evening temperature falls to 25 to 27 degrees Celsius. The trails will be crowded.

Winter (December to February)

If chilly weather doesn’t bother you, you can do the Annapurna Base Camp trek in winter. December is the ideal month for Winter trekking; it will be enjoyable if you wear the right clothing. You must pack a warm sleeping bag, windproof jacket, gloves, trousers, and a warm hat or cap. The morning can be foggy, but the weather clears later in the day. The typical daytime temperature ranges from 9 to 12 degrees Celcius. The temperature can drop as low as -10 to 15 degrees Celsius. You will face challenges due to heavy snowfall.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

Summer/Monsoon is off-season for ABC trek. Summer is hot, and trekking will be difficult at such high temperatures. Because of the frequent rainfall, the trekking trail will be muddy and slippery. The trail’s condition further raises the risk of injury. If you plan to trek during the summer months, be prepared for leeches, which are abundant. The temperatures range from 3 to 16 degrees Celsius.

The 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek has moderate challenges and difficulties. During the trek, you will have to walk between 5 to 7 hours each day. Similarly, it takes 8 km to 18 km to hike a day. Moreover, you will climb around 3,000 staircases on your way to the Annapurna Base Camp. So you need to be physically fit and prepared. The route requires trekkers to climb uphill and descend downhill.

Altitude

The highest point of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is around 4,130 meters. Even though this trek isn’t among the highest in the region, it still requires a significant ascent. Some people get altitude sickness, so acclimatization and a slow ascent are important to avoid problems related to high altitude.

Weather Conditions

In the Annapurna region, the weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. During the trekking season, which is spring and autumn, the weather is usually clear and stable, making it easier to see and comfortable temperatures during the day. However, temperatures drop a lot at higher elevations, especially at night, and weather can shift quickly.

Terrain

The ABC trek route includes a variety of terrain, such as stone steps, rocky trails, and uneven surfaces. The changing landscapes require flexibility and adaptability, especially when navigating steep ascents and descends. The trail contains narrow, winding sections and occasional exposure to cliff edges. You must be physically and mentally prepared to tackle the difficult terrain of ABC Trek.

Trek Distance and Duration

One of the main difficulties of the ABC trek is the duration and distance. The ABC trek normally lasts 5 to 11 days, depending on the route traveled and the trekker’s pace. It can change depending on the trekker’s preferences. The ABC journey is around 110 kilometers. To complete the trek, you must hike around 6 to 8 hours per day. If you are not used to walking for long hours, you will become exhausted and uncomfortable during the trek.

Personal travel insurance is not included in our tour. So, you have to have trekking insurance from your insurance company compulsorily. Similarly, ensure that your travel insurance company has covered all your injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, rescue mission, loss of property, etc. Most importantly, ensure that your insurance policy has covered your 4000m plus trekking and adventure policy.

Travel insurance covers the cost of helicopter rescue from the mountains in case of major accidents and altitude sickness. A helicopter service is the only way out of the mountains during extreme cases of emergency evacuation.  In addition, make sure that your travel insurance is valid and not expired.

The journey to ABC begins with a drive to Sudame (1,350 meters) from Pokhara through Baglung Highway, taking 2 hours. From Sudame, your trekking starts via terraced fields and villages of Hile and Tikhedhunga. You will climb uphill on stone-paved staircases to reach Ulleri and then to Banthanti (2,100 meters). On the day, you’ll gain 750m. The trek is moderate and takes approximately four hours.  Your second day’s destination is Ghorepani (2,800 meters). From Banthanti, you will walk through the rhododendron forest towards Nangethanti, continuing to climb for an hour and a half before reaching Ghorepani. The trek is moderate and takes 4 hours, covering 10km, and you’ll gain 700m on the day. The next morning, you will take an early morning hike to view a sunrise from Poonhill’s view tower (3,193 meters), which takes an hour of uphill climb.

The journey retraces back to Ghorepani from Poon Hill and sets off to the village of Tadapani (2,650 meters), traveling through rhododendron forests. On the day, you’ll cover 14km and walk for 6-7 hours, losing 150m elevation. The trek continues through the Rhododendron forest, passing through Chuile. Hiking through an exposed ridge overlooking Machhapuchhre, you’ll reach Chhomrong (2,130 meters), covering 14km down and an uphill climb, taking 4-5 hours and losing an elevation of 520m. The trail continues to Bamboo (2,300 meters) from Chhhomrong, passing through Sinuwa village and walking uphill to bamboo forests. The day’s walking distance is 14km through uphill and downhill sections, taking 6 hours and gaining 170m.

The sixth day begins with ascending through rocky paths, witnessing the change in scenery from green forests to highland pastures. Walking alongside the glacial Modi River and Hinku Cave on the way, you’ll reach Deurali (3,200m), covering 12km, taking 5 hours, and gaining 900m. The day’s climb is quite challenging. The seventh day involves gradual climbing alongside the Modi River, past an icy cave, and trekking on rocky paths. A  surreal mountain view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges will greet you after walking for 5 hours uphill, covering 8km, gaining 930km, and reaching the base camp of Annapurna (4,130m). From ABC, you will retrace your path back to Bamboo, then Jhinu Danda (1,600 meters), Samrung (1,500 meters), and drive back to Pokhara.

The journey to Annapurna begins from Kathmandu and moves to Pokhara, the gateway to ABC. You have various options to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu, including ground and air. A daily flight to Pokhara operates from the domestic airport of Kathmandu, and it is one of the easiest ways to get there in only  25 minutes. Besides flight, ground transportation is also available, and options include tourist and public buses, cars, and Jeep.

However, you must travel by overland from Pokhara to Sudame. Jeep is the best option to get to Sudame from Pokhara, as the trail is unpaved and includes bumpy sections. The journey from Pokhara to Sudame takes 2 hours. However, the drive offers a scenic view of Nepal’s countryside, from terraced farmland to dense forests and traditional Nepali villages.

For international trekkers, traveling without a proper visa and paperwork is impossible. International travelers travel to Nepal on a tourist visa, which allows them to travel and participate in various activities in Nepal. You can get a visa from the Nepal Embassy in your country or get it on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

Two permits are other important documents you will require during your 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek. You will need TIMS (Transport Information Management System) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). You can get these permits in Kathmandu and Pokhara. But our 10-day ABC Trek package includes these permits.

Although the ABC route is safe, trekking to the higher elevation is risky. Therefore, travel insurance is essential. The weather can become unpredictable, and unforeseen accidents and emergencies can occur. Insurance can compensate for those risks. Likewise, it can also cover baggage loss, trip postponements, and trip cancellations.

• ACAP: NPR 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1000 for SAARC
• Note: Children below 10 years are free

Physical preparation

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp requires several hours of hiking each day, with steep climbs and descents. So, you must be physically fit. Some simple exercises can help you prepare, like running, cycling, or brisk walking to improve your stamina. For leg strength, do exercises like squats and lunges. Regular hikes with a backpack will also help you get used to trekking.

Mental preparation

Mental preparation is as important as being physically ready for the ABC trek. Choosing the best time for the trek will help you avoid mental weakness. You will have to walk for several hours so must be prepared mentally. You have to push yourself in challenging situtations. You must prepare your mind ready for what you’ll encounter on your trekking journey. You must stay positive throughout your trip.

Acclimatization

Acclimatization is very important because the ABC trek takes you above 4,000 meters. As you go higher, the air gets thinner, which can cause altitude sickness. To reduce this risk, you should plan your trek with acclimatization days to let your body adjust. Avoid drinking coffee, as too much caffeine can affect your body.

Annapurna Base Camp, a base of the world’s tenth highest peak, Mount Annapurna (8,091m), lies at the impressive height of 4,130m/13,549ft above sea level. Reaching the altitude is one of the most remarkable achievements and a moment one can cherish for a lifetime. However, the journey is not easy, but of course, stunning through diverse terrain, lush forests, and rocky paths within Annapurna Conservation Area. At an elevation of 4,130m, altitude-related issues are a significant concern. The higher the elevation, the lower the oxygen level, and difficulty in breathing will increase accordingly. Thus, trekkers should be well aware of the challenges that might arise during the trek before thinking of conquering the height of the iconic base camp.

However, one can’t directly reach an elevation of 4,130; instead, trekkers should pass through numerous villages before reaching the altitude. Here is a brief breakdown of the elevation trekkers pass through to get the ultimate height of 4,130m:

• Pokhara: Pokhara is the gateway to ABC at an 822m/ 2696ft elevation.
• Sudame: The trekking to ABC begins from the village of Sudame, located at 1,537m/ 5,042ft.
• Banthanti: At an elevation of 2,100m/6,930ft, Banthanti is the first stop on the journey to ABC.
• Ghorepani: A famous village on the way to Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani lies at an altitude of 2,800m/9,240ft.
• Tadapani: The village lies at an elevation of 2,650m/8,745ft.
• Chhomrong: One of the most beautiful Gurung villages of the Annapurna region, Chhomrong lies at an elevation of 2,130m/7,029ft.
• Bamboo: Located in the dense Bamboo forest, the village lies at 2,300m/7590ft.
• Deurali: The last destination before reaching Annapurna Base camp, Deurali, lies at an elevation of 3,200m/10,560ft.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Vs Everest Base Camp Trek, it’s a dilemma for trekkers. The answer to this question can vary depending on personal preference. Both trek destinations are moderately difficult treks and have no age restrictions. However, altitude plays a crucial role in determining the trek’s difficulty. Both routes take you to a high altitude of over 3000 meters. The Annapurna Base Camp sits at an elevation of 4130 meters, which is also its highest point. Meanwhile, the Everest Base Camp sits at 5364 meters, and its highest point is at Kala Pathar at 5545 meters.

The higher the altitude, the more challenging and riskier the trek becomes. There is a higher risk of altitude sickness. Similarly, rapid changes in the weather and temperature make the trek more demanding. Hence, based on the altitude and risk, the trek to Everest Base Camp is more challenging than the ABC Trek. Annapurna Base Camp Trek Vs Everest Base Camp Trek

Clothing

• Thermal Tops and Bottoms
• Trekking Shirts
• Trekking Pants
• Fleece Jacket or Down Jacket
• Waterproof Jacket and Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Gloves
• Hat

Foot Wear

• Trekking Boots
• Sandals or Lightweight Shoes

Backpack

• Daypack (20-30L)
• Duffel Bag

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping Bag

Other Essentials

• Trekking Poles
• Water Bottles and Purification Tablets
• Headlamp
• First Aid Kit
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm
• Snacks

Accessories

• Gaiters
• Microspikes
• Travel Towel
• Personal Toiletries

The pricing for ABC Trek can differ depending on the packages. The trek duration and season also affect the package cost. Similarly, the pricing for solo and group trekkers can differ. Most trekking agencies provide group discounts.

Here at Nepal Alternative Treks, we have a 10-day ABC Trek package for you. Our package includes transportation, accommodations, meals, permits, and insurance. Likewise, our package also covers guide/porter fees (including their accommodation, insurance, and others). Our package includes a trekking map, duffle bag, water purification, first aid kit, company t-shirt, and trekking completion certificate.

We also offer customization packages. For further inquiries, feel free to contact us!

Nepal Alternative Treks & Expedition has been offering tourism services for decades. We are a government-registered company and proud members of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN). Thus, you can make your Booking with us fearlessly. Booking your Annapurna Base Camp trek is straightforward and secure. Here is a guide to help you book your trip with us:

• Get in touch with us via WhatsApp or E-mail.
• Ask for details about the trip
• If you are okay with the trip package, cost, and everything, proceed with the booking procedure.
• To confirm your reservation, we ask for a 10% advance payment to guarantee your place for the trek.
• Within a week of Booking, please provide us with a scanned copy of your passport, two passport-sized photos, travel insurance, and flight information.
• You should pay us up to 50% of the total price, and you can pay the remaining once you arrive in Kathmandu.

Nepal Alternative Treks & Expedition provides a last-minute booking facility for the Annapurna Base camp trek. We accept Bookings 48 hours before the trip. However, trekkers should make full payment during the booking time if considering last-minute Booking. Moreover, we provide top-notch service and don’t compromise.