Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp is a fun adventure, and daily activities are similar. On each typical day, you will have breakfast, trek for a few hours, have lunch, visit local attractions, reach new destinations, have dinner, and call it a day. So, let’s get into it in more detail.

Early Morning

5 AM to 6 AM:

Wake up early and stay fresh. Pack what you need for the trek. After half an hour of getting ready, eat a tasty breakfast before hiking. Don’t skip breakfast; it will give you energy for the first part of the trek. After breakfast, you will begin the first portion of the trek till lunch.

6 AM to 1 PM:

The early portion of the trek begins after breakfast. If you are well-rested and haven’t skipped breakfast, you will cover more distance. The weather will start cool but get warmer as the day goes on. Depending on the season, you may need to bring rain gear. In spring, expect primarily warm, sunny weather while trekking. During your trek, you can explore villages, ancient temples, monasteries, caves, and other sites. Visit local villages, talk to the locals, learn about their culture, and try regional foods. After trekking for 6 to 7 hours, it’s time to stop for lunch.

Afternoon

1 PM to 2 PM:

You will stop for lunch around 1 PM. Lunch lasts one hour, during which you will have time to relax and click photos. Your guide will take you to a local restaurant to try Nepali or Thakali food. For lunch, you will have rice, lentils, and vegetable curry. This is an excellent time to take a break and adjust to the altitude. Pay attention to how you feel and rest if you need to. After about an hour, you will continue walking.

2 PM to 5 PM

After lunch, the trek to ABC trek continues for three to four hours in the afternoon. The pace slows as we pass through several remote villages. As the sun sets, the settlements cast long shadows on the mountains, creating a beautiful view. It’s time to reach the new teahouse for the evening, and it’s best to get it before sunset.

Evening

5 PM to 7 PM

Arrive at the teahouse around 5 PM. Take some time to relax, freshen up, and explore the teahouse. After that, enjoy a leisurely walk around the village. You can check out local attractions like restaurants, temples, and monasteries. In some villages, the locals gather around the fire to sing, dance, and share stories. Feel free to join them and connect with the community.

7 PM to 8 PM

Dinner is served from 7 PM to 8 PM at your teahouse. You will have many choices, including local Nepali dishes like Thalkali Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari and various Western options like pizzas, burgers, and dumplings. Eating healthy, carb-rich foods during lunch is a good idea, but try not to overeat, as it can make falling asleep difficult.

8 PM to 10 PM

Aim to go to bed by 10 PM. Getting enough quality sleep is essential to feel refreshed for the next day. If you don’t sleep well, you may feel fatigued during your next trek. The rooms have enough bedding to keep you warm and comfortable while you sleep. This is a typical daily routine on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the easy to moderate-difficulty level treks. However, trekkers must be wary of meals and accommodation. Accommodation provides a proper place to rest and rejuvenate, whereas proper meals give easy energy to conduct high-altitude trekking.

Meals

The food on the ABC trek is varied and healthy, meeting the needs of trekkers from different backgrounds. Teahouses offer many dishes to keep trekkers well-fed and energized. Most ingredients come from nearby villages, ensuring they are fresh and organic. However, trekkers must be careful when buying packaged food along the trail; the stock may sometimes be old or expired.

The menu options on the ABC trek are diverse. You can order local Nepali food or taste cuisines from Western countries, such as Italian, Indian, Chinese, and Thai. The trekkers will have Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner every day until the trekking days. Here are some menus for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Breakfast

Nepali Breakfast includes porridge, Eggs, Museli, Pancakes, Toast, Chapatas, Tea, Coffee, Noodles, Stews, and Steaks.

Lunch and Dinner

Dal Bhat, Momos, Thukpa, Fried Rice, Chow Mein, Spaghetti, Pizza, French Fries, Spring Rolls, Popcorn, Garlic Soup

Desserts

Chocolate Pie, Apple Pie

Accommodation

On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you will mostly find teahouses and small lodges run by local families. The teahouses have a cozy natural atmosphere and offer meals and rooms, making them suitable places for resting or sleeping after a tough day of trekking. The teahouse has a small room with twin beds, and they also give you a blanket, pillow, and mattress.

However, the rooms do not have heating. You usually share a room with another person, and the bathrooms are communal. The accommodations may become simpler at higher altitudes, with some teahouses offering dormitory-style sleeping. Teahouse owners, often from the local Gurung or Magar communities, are friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and the mountains, making your stay more enjoyable.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is among the best options for newcomers and beginners. This trek is one of the easiest to moderate levels suitable for beginners. Throughout the trek, the trekkers will face some level of difficulty. However, anyone can quickly complete this trek if they are physically fit and have decent core strength.

The ABC trek is one of the best destinations for first-timers because it offers a good mix of low-level challenges and an enriching experience. The trek is short and has a balanced schedule of hard and easy days, making it accessible yet satisfying. You reach a high point at the base camp, and you can enjoy quiet moments in beautiful villages and hot springs. Hence, ABC is the perfect trek for those who want to dip their toes in the field of trekking; however, it is not only limited to beginners, as expert trekkers who prefer the Annapurna region occasionally book this trek.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate-level trek. For beginners, it can be among the best options for starting their trekking journey. However, the trekkers still need to be wary about certain difficulty factors.

Long Duration

The ABC Trek usually lasts between 5 and 11 days. The exact length depends on your chosen route and how fast you want to go. When deciding how long to trek, consider your health and fitness. The duration affects how your body adjusts to high altitude and handles physical effort. A longer trek gives you more rest days and allows for slower climbs.

High Altitude

One of the significant difficulties that ABC trekkers will likely face is the problem at higher elevations. There are several difficulty factors at high altitudes, like dynamic weather, snowy trails, and the potential for altitude sickness. Even during the best time for trekking, this problem persists, so high altitude is even more problematic during the poor season.

Rugged Terrain

The trek route has a variety of terrains, including stone steps, rocky paths, and uneven surfaces. The changing landscape requires flexibility and physical activity, especially when climbing steep areas. Some parts of the trail are narrow and winding, with occasional views of cliff edges. This can be tough for those afraid of heights or worrying about falling. You must have good balance and physical endurance to navigate the trek safely.

Physical and mental fitness are essential for tackling the difficulty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Let’s examine them.

Physical Fitness

Trekkers in good physical shape are safer for any trek in the Himalayas. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not very intense, but you will still benefit from cardio and strength training. It’s a good idea to start stamina-building exercises a few weeks before your trek.

Here are some simple steps to get fit and ready:

1. Cardiovascular Exercises: To boost your heart health, add activities like running, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking to your routine.

2. Leg Strength: To strengthen your legs, do squats, lunges, step-ups, and leg presses.

3. Core Stability: Strengthen your core muscles with planks, sit-ups, and leg raises.

4. Flexibility: Include stretching or yoga in your routine to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injuries.

5. Hiking: To mimic trekking conditions, ideally, with a loaded backpack, go on regular hikes.

Mental Fitness

Mental preparation is as important as being physically ready for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp. This journey is long and challenging, so you need mental strength and stamina. Staying positive and motivated can make a big difference. Here are ways to boost your mental strength for the Annapurna Base Camp trek:

1. Positivity: Keep a positive attitude by setting small goals to stay motivated.
2. Managing Stress: Use stress-relief methods like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness.
3. Research: Learn about the trek by reading articles, watching videos, and understanding the challenges you might face.

The best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp are Spring (March, April, May, and June) and Autumn (late September, October, and November). Winter (December to February) and Monsoon (June to August) are off-season.

Spring

The Spring season starts in March and ends in May. During this season, the weather and temperature are excellent and suitable for trekking. Furthermore, in the Spring season, the ABC trails are filled with colorful blooming flowers and lush jungles, which makes the trekking experience even more cheerful.

Autumn

The Autumn season begins in September and ends in November. Nepal has autumn in September, October, and November, also called pre-winter. This season offers some of the best weather after the monsoon and before winter. Trekkers can expect moderate temperatures, warm days, and cool mornings and evenings. The skies are usually clear, providing beautiful views of the Annapurna range during the day. Daytime temperatures average between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures drop to around negative 3 to 4 degrees Celsius. Autumn is also the harvest season, so travelers can see farmers working in their fields. One downside to this time is that the trails can be crowded with other trekkers.

Monsoon and Winter season

The two off-seasons of trekking ABC are winter and monsoon season, where trekking itinerary booking is lower than other seasons. From June to August, Nepal experiences monsoon and summer seasons with daytime temperatures of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, dropping to -1 to -2 degrees at night. While the monsoon rain offers relief from the heat, it also brings challenges like leeches, landslides, and potential flight delays. Trekking is still possible, but expect muddy trails and obstructed mountain views. Winter trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is challenging due to extreme weather, with 0 to 5 degrees Celsius daytime temperatures and nighttime drops from -10 to -15 degrees. This season offers seclusion but comes with risks, such as snow-covered trails and avalanches. We do not recommend winter travel to ABC.

During the ABC trek, trekkers can explore many attractions. Cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara are pretty standard tourist hubs, but there are also other unique places where trekkers can admire the true Nepalese beauty and wonder.

Natural Hot Spring

There are natural hot springs near Jhinu Danda, along the Annapurna Base Camp route. These hot springs provide warm geothermal water where trekkers can relax with a hot water bath. Spending time at the hot springs can help you recover from long walks and soothe your body. Locals call the hot water “Tatopani,” believing it can help treat various illnesses.

Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Machhapuchhre Base Camp, or Fishtail Base Camp, is situated at about 3,700 meters in Nepal’s Annapurna region. It’s one of the major destinations of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek mainly because of the stunning views of the mountains, peaks, waterfalls, and overall Annapurna region. The trail through MBC is a bit tough but rich in different plants and animals. During the journey to MBC, the distinctive fishtail-shaped peak is an attractive sight.

Annapurna Conservation Area

Annapurna Conservation Area is another major attraction of the ABC trek. In this conservation area, the trekkers can explore and meet rare and endangered species of flora and fauna that are being preserved. Starting below 1000 meters, you’ll see vegetation like sal, pine, and oaks. Between 1000 and 2000 meters, evergreen and deciduous forests with chestnut, maple, and alder trees thrive. Higher up, you’ll encounter walnuts, oak, and rhododendron, the national flower. Above 3000 meters, tall trees give way to blue pine, fir, and juniper. At altitudes over 4000 meters, only herbs, alpine grasses, and medicinal plants like Yarsagumba and Himalayan blue poppy grow. ACA is also a place for rare and endangered species of animals like Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, and Red Pandas. Bird sighing is an everyday activity with over 100 species in the Conservation Area.

Gurung Villages

Several Gurung villages in the Annapurna region, such as Ghandruk and Choomrong. These villages show trekkers the beautiful Gurung culture. Trekkers can see the unique culture, traditional lifestyle, and warm hospitality of the Gurungs. The area has many teahouses and lodges that highlight Nepalese hospitality and serve delicious Nepali food, which helps trekkers gain the energy they need for their adventures.

Trekkers planning to trek the Annapurna Base Camp must be wary about their packing list. Despite being among the easier ones, the trek crosses higher elevations, which presents different types of difficulty to the people. Here are some items of clothing, gear, etc, that trekkers might need to pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Clothing

1. Hiking shorts (optional) for summer-time trekking
2. Down Jacket (Puffer Jacket) *
3. Waterproof Jacket
4. Light thermal trouser
5. Fleece Pullover or Jacket
6. Bandana or Headscarf
7. Hiking Socks
8. Brimmed Hat or Sun Cap
9. Knit Hat (preferably a fleece or woolen hat)
10. Running shoes or trainers (optional)
11. Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt for trekking at lower altitudes
12. Insulated Jacket (synthetic or down)
13. Fleece Pants
14. Cotton Socks (optional)
15. Sports Bra (for women)
16. Underwear
17. Buff/Neck Warmer/Neck Gaiter
18. Balaclava
19. Hiking Pants
20. Trekking Sandals
21. Gaiters (optional)
22. Lightweight Thermal Tops
23. Sunglasses
24. Soft Jacket (fleece or soft shell)
25. Trekking Boots

Trekking Gears

1. Trekking backpack
2. Head torch with extra batteries
3. Duffel Bag, 90L*
4. Crampons (optional)
5. Binoculars (optional)
6. Navigation equipment (optional)
7. Sleeping bag liner (optional)
8. Thermosets to provide extra insulation for the sleeping bags
9. Water Bottle
10. Daypack cover (optional)
11. Book/Diary/Games
12. Raincoat
13. Sleeping Bag*
14. Trekking poles
15. Garbage Bag
16. Face Mask

First Aid and Medicines

1. Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes
2. Antibiotics
3. Sunscreen cream
4. Skin blister repair kit
5. Painkillers
6. Water purification tablets or water filters
7. Electrolytes, powder or tablets (optional)
8. Altitude sickness drugs*
9. High-calorie snacks (optional)
10. Insect repellent
11. Oral Rehydration Sachets
12. Eye drops
13. Ear plugs
14. Hand sanitizer
15. Cough Lozenges
16. Plasters, Bandages & Zinc Oxide Tape
17. Lip Balm
18. Prescriptions
19. Foot Powder
20. Antidiarrheals

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is mainly known for its adventure trekking, cultural immersion, and, most importantly, stunning views of the mountains. Immediately when trekkers reach Pokhara, they are welcomed by the majestic views of the mountains, and as the days progress, they get these views even more clearly. The trail constantly unveils new panoramas, from the terraced fields of Ghorepani to the rhododendron forests of Chomrong.

The highlight, of course, is the Annapurna Sanctuary, where the towering Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other snow-capped giants create a breathtaking spectacle. The best panoramic views of the ABC trek can be visible from the top of the Poon Hill trek and also from the top of the Machhapuchhre and the primary destination Annapurna Base Camp itself. So, if you are an adventure trekker looking for a trek to see stunning mountain views, then ABC Trek is the one to choose.

Just like Food and Accommodation, Transportation is another important aspect that trekkers need to pay attention to during their trek. There are a few modes of transportation that trekkers can choose from, which are divided by comfort, privacy, and cost.

To start the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, go to Nayapul. You can get to Nayapul by bus, or you can hire a private car or a shared jeep. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. If you are coming from Kathmandu, you can either fly or drive to Pokhara. The drive takes about 6 to 7 hours, while the flight lasts only 25 to 30 minutes.

Although the Ghorepani Trek is an equally attractive trekking destination, people often choose the Annapurna Trek over the former. There are some reasons for this. Some of the reasons for choosing the ABC trek over Ghorepani are explained below.

More Challenging

One primary reason for choosing ABC over Ghorepani is the chance to experience an adventurous and more challenging trek. Trekkers are generally physically fit and have lots of stamina, which is why they prefer some challenge during their trek, which ABC provides.

Diverse Landscapes

Another major reason for choosing the ABC trek over Poon Hill is the opportunity to see diverse landscapes. During the ABC trek, the trekkers can see different landscapes, from barren lands to lush jungles, rocky ridges, vibrant fields, glacial moraines, and snowy mountains. However, in the Ghorepani trek, the landscapes are limited to see and enjoy.

Reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp

During the Ghorepani Trek, the trekkers won’t reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp; however, during the ABC trek, they will first reach MBC before reaching the ultimate destination of the ABC. Trekkers can see some of the stunning views of mountains from the top of MBC, which is why it is a beautiful attraction.

The preference for ABC or EBC treks is dependent on the trekkers themselves. Some aspects of both treks can be preferred more than the other. For example, the EBC trek is more challenging than the ABC trek; however, the ABC trek provides more crisp views of the mountains.

Trekking to EBC always feels like an achievement for anyone. However, trekkers won’t encounter many cultures, traditions, and rituals, which some might prefer. Some trekkers favor the budget-friendly ABC trek more than the EBC trek, but if they prefer different modes of trekking, such as Helicopter, Jeep, Motorcycle, etc., then they might like the EBC trek more.