Annapurna Base Camp Trek 10 Days

During the trek, accommodation will be in local lodges, which are simple and differ from city hotels. The lodges have common bathrooms, and at higher elevations like Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), dormitory-style accommodations might be necessary due to limited availability. As this trek is popular among locals (Nepalese), it can get crowded, especially after Chhomrong, leading to the use of shared lodges with other trekkers.

We will provide you simple breakfast as per your package program however we will be more than happy to offer all kind of meals if you book full package program with us with extra cost.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a delightful experience of local Nepali cuisine. Along the trek, you will find a wide variety of traditional dishes available in tea houses and lodges. One of the highlights is “Dal Bhat,” a staple dish of Nepal, which is commonly served and includes a combination of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry. Enjoy the rich flavors and taste the authentic Nepali flavors during your trekking adventure.

Porter guide based on 1 person can carry 12 kgs and dedicated porter will be provided for 2 persons & above (2:1 basis). Porter can carry 25 Kgs sharing the load between 2 people however please note that trekking guide will be highly professional, trained and Nepal government licensed holder with well English speaking.

Important/Information

Fitness
Altitude
Equipment
Unexpected situation
Medical
Insurance
Non-completed treks/tours

Should you experience any of these symptoms, please, notify your guide. Failure to do so (if altitude is continually gained) could result in the next stage of AMS, which, within a couple of hours, could lead to death, Resting at present level or descending to lower level generally alleviates the problem and you can continue.

Fitness:
Trekking in Nepal is a unique experience; so to get maximum enjoyment you should be physically and mentally prepared. No trek is easy so preparation should commence months before – walking, jogging, hiking (one or two bricks in pack) is helpful.

Altitude Sickness:
Altitude sickness, often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can affect any person, irrespective of age or level of fitness. No training can prevent this illness. Generally, those who trek too fast or gain altitude too quickly are more likely to be affected.

When trekking, “Bistarai” (slowly) is very good advise. Once over 3,000 meters, daily vertical gains of over 500, meters should not be exceeded. Your guide is aware of this so take his advice.

Symptoms:
– Nausea/Vomiting
– Loss of appetite
– Insomnia/sleeplessness
– Persistent headache
– Dizziness, fatigue, lassitude, heavy legs
– Slight swelling of hands and feet
– Breathlessness and breathing irregularly
– Reduced urine.

Equipment:
The company provides a kit bag (for your goods to be carried by porter) and tea houses have foam mattresses. If you are on camping trek, company provides the mattresses, tents etc. You may bring your own down jacket and sleeping bag or you may purchase (one quarter of price in KTM) or hire for around US$ 1 per item daily. Do not come without “well walked in boots” – poor boots, poor trek.

General:
– Lightweight walking boots “walked” them in prior to arrival in Nepal to avoid blisters.
– During day – light weight cotton pants, shorts, wrap around skirt.
– At night –track top, pants
– Cotton T-shirts.
– Long sleeve cotton shirt, if susceptible to sunburn.
– Sun hat – sunburn is severe at rarefied altitudes.
– Thick outer wooden socks, thin inner cotton
– Vaseline for feet and crutch.
– Water bottle – 2 liters.
– Iodine to purify water
– Sunglasses and strap
– Toilet paper and cig. Lighter, Toilet paper can be bough in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
– Small headlamp/flashlight /torch with spare batteries.
– Personal medical supplies – do not forget ban – aids, elastic bandage
– Pocket knife and sewing kit
– Sunscreen, sun bock, sun – tan lotion.
– Small daypack – 25 liters.
– Rain jacket – poncho style to cover back pack.
– Water proof pant
– First aid kit
– Small towels

During winter Adds:
– Warm down fiber filled jacket.
– Sleeping bag to –15c with inner sheet
– Thermal underwear, woolen shirts and thick sweaters.
– Flannel shirt
– Beanie with ear flaps
– A pair of gloves
– Snow glasses and strap
– Snow gaiters

Additional suggestion:
– Sandals or slip on shoes
– Camera and film
– Spare boot laces
– Large plastic bag to line kit bag, day pack and for dirty clothes

Unexpected Situations:
No matter how well treks/tours are organized, the Nepali environment rules supreme. Flights and vehicular travel throughout Nepal are prone to cancellations and delays due to poor weather conditions at only a moment’s notice. When planning you itinerary it is advisable to add extra days. Just in case. Also take with you extra money to cover extra food/accommodation. The trekking company is not responsible for any additional expenses caused by delays.

Medical:
To fully enjoy you trek/tour you must have a complete medical check well before you depart. Preventive measures – better than treatment. Do not travel without vaccination: Hepatitis, A/B/C, polio, meningitis, tetanus, typhoid. Treatment of any illness outside of Kathmandu is almost non-existent, a basic first aid kit is essential as porters and villagers often seek basic help and also for your use, don’t forget to have a dental check. Altitude can cause loose fillings to fall out, Kathmandu does have some excellent dental facilities, but outside Kathmandu……………..!

Insurance:
This is your responsibility. The trekking company takes no financial responsibility for any delays, cancellation, medical treatment or evacuation; appropriate insurance coverage must include evacuation by helicopter. If no such coverage, the cost is huge.

Non-Completed Treks/tours:
The company is not liable to refund any monies should the agreed trek/tour be shortened due to injury, illness, non-interest or changed weather/environmental and political conditions. If trek/tour is incomplete there is no refund. If trekker cancels trek after permits, bus/flight tickets and other arrangements etc. have made, a 40% cancellation fee is charged.

Annapurna 1 stands tall at 8091 meters, ranking among the world’s highest mountains. The surrounding sister peaks also contribute to breathtaking panoramas from every angle. The trek showcases diverse terrain, ranging from serene lowland pastures and tranquil villages to awe-inspiring glaciers and majestic mountain vistas.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek can be accessed from multiple trailheads, allowing for flexibility in your route. The duration of the trek varies depending on the chosen trail, ranging from 6 to 12 days. This adaptability enables trekkers to select a suitable itinerary that fits their preferences and time constraints.

Yes, there is mobile network coverage in Annapurna Base Camp. While trekking along the trails, you can find cellular networks from Ncell or NTC (Nepal Telecom Corporation) in most of the small villages and along the trekking route. This mobile network availability allows trekkers to stay connected and communicate during their journey to the Annapurna Base Camp.

Absolutely! Annapurna trekking through the Annapurna valley is a breathtaking experience, offering picturesque views of majestic mountains surrounded by the wonders of nature. The trek takes you through hills adorned with charming rustic villages, creating a beautiful contrast with the towering Himalayan peaks.

The iconic mountains like Dhaulagiri, Gaurishankar, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), and other Himalayan ranges further enhance the scenic beauty of this trekking region. Each step on the trail reveals new and awe-inspiring vistas, making Annapurna trekking a truly memorable journey for trekkers seeking to immerse themselves in the splendor of the Himalayas.

Indeed, a waterproof layer is essential for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. This layer should consist of a reliable rain jacket and waterproof pants. The weather in the mountainous regions can be highly unpredictable, and carrying protective clothing is crucial to stay dry and comfortable during the trek.

Rain showers are common in the Himalayas, and having a waterproof layer will protect you from unexpected downpours and keep you warm in case of chilly conditions. Being prepared with proper rain gear ensures that you can fully enjoy the trek and focus on the breathtaking scenery without worrying about getting wet or cold.

During the Annapurna Base Camp trek, frequent rainfalls and muddy terrains are common, especially during the monsoon season. However, in the spring season, you can expect low precipitation, clear skies, and vibrant nature, making the trek even more memorable. The forest comes alive with blooming flowers, creating an ethereal and enchanting atmosphere along the trail.

On the other hand, the autumn season is the most preferred time for trekkers to visit Annapurna Base Camp. The weather is stable, and the skies are clear, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding mountains. The colorful foliage adds to the beauty of the trek, making it a delightful experience for all. Whether you choose spring or autumn, both seasons have their unique charm, offering trekkers a memorable journey amidst the majestic Himalayan scenery.

While you don’t necessarily need to pack a sleeping bag for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, it is advisable to consider bringing one. The teahouses along the trail do provide thick synthetic comforters, which they refer to as blankets. However, during high season when the number of trekkers increases, there is a possibility that the teahouses may run out of blankets.

Having your own sleeping bag ensures that you have a comfortable and warm night’s sleep regardless of the availability of blankets in the teahouses. It provides an added layer of comfort and security during your trek, especially in colder conditions or when the teahouses are crowded. Therefore, while it may not be mandatory, packing a sleeping bag can be a prudent choice to enhance your trekking experience.

The name “Annapurna” is derived from Sanskrit, where “anna” means “food” and “purna” means “filled.” Together, the name Annapurna translates to “everlasting food.” This mountain is named after the Hindu goddess Annapurna, who is considered the deity of food and nourishment and is believed to reside in the region. The name holds significant cultural and spiritual significance, representing the abundance of nature’s blessings and sustenance found in the Annapurna region.

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, the months of October and November, as well as April and May, are highly recommended as the best times for trekking. During these periods, the weather is usually clear and dry, creating ideal conditions for trekking. Additionally, the temperatures are not too cold, making the ascent into higher altitudes more comfortable.

In October and November, you can enjoy post-monsoon clarity with lush landscapes, while in April and May, the spring season brings vibrant blossoms and blooming rhododendron forests, adding to the trek’s beauty. Both seasons offer stunning views, stable weather, and a pleasant trekking experience, making them the top choices for Annapurna Circuit trekkers.

During the peak spring season, Annapurna Base Camp can get crowded with trekkers. However, in March, the camp receives fewer visitors as the weather is still transitioning from winter to spring, making it a less crowded time to trek. While the weather may be delicate during this period, the landscape begins to bloom with colorful flowers and rhododendron forests, offering a serene and picturesque trekking experience.

The best months for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp are pre-monsoon, including February, March, April, and May. For post-monsoon trekking, late September, October, November, and December are highly recommended. Early September is also feasible, but we prefer the months listed above for a more favorable trekking experience.

Trekking over 3300 stone steps and covering long distances daily can be exhausting for trekkers. To mitigate the risks associated with trekking, it’s essential to be mindful of your physical strength and capabilities.

The average temperatures in Annapurna Base Camp Trek range from -10°C to 20°C degrees Celsius.

Over time, the place came to be known as Austrian Camp due to difficulty in pronunciation for locals. Eventually, it was pronounced as Australian Camp, giving the place its new name.

At Earth’s Edge, we provide expedition difficulty level ratings. Annapurna Base Camp is rated as Level 3, which entails approximately 4 to 6 hours of trekking per day at altitudes generally not exceeding 4,500 meters. While some days may stretch up to 7 to 8 hours, it’s not typical.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek covers approximately 60 km, which can vary based on your starting point and chosen route. The trek is rated as moderate-difficult, featuring some very steep areas and high altitudes. However, the majority of the route offers well-maintained paths, ensuring a fulfilling trekking experience.

Annapurna, Annapurneshwari, Annada or Annapoorna (Sanskrit: अन्नपूर्णा, Bengali: অন্নপূর্ণা, IAST: Annapūrṇa, lit. filled with or possessed of food) is a manifestation of Parvati and is known as the Hindu Goddess of food and nourishment.

If you have uncertainties about your mountaineering skills, the Annapurna Circuit is a relatively less challenging option. It involves fewer steep climbs and maintains a lower average altitude compared to Everest. Additionally, you have the freedom to choose from various trails, some of which do not exceed 2000m in altitude, offering a diverse and enjoyable trekking experience.

The temperature during the Annapurna Circuit trek averages around 5-10°C. However, in higher altitudes, it can drop significantly, reaching as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. If you plan to trek the Annapurna Circuit during the winter season, it’s crucial to have warm clothing and sleeping bags that can withstand temperatures as low as minus 20-40 degrees Celsius. Proper gear will ensure your comfort and safety during the challenging winter conditions.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is longer and more challenging than the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It demands a longer duration (at least 12-16 days), more financial investment, higher physical fitness, and trekking experience.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek typically covers a distance of approximately 110km. On average, you will walk for about 6 hours per day, covering a distance of around 10km daily. This trek is considered moderately easy and offers a scenic journey through the picturesque rural settings of Nepal, close to the majestic Annapurna mountain range.

The Annapurna Circuit trek reaches an impressive altitude of 5,420m/17,782 feet, while the Annapurna Base Camp trek’s highest point is at 4,131m/13,553 feet. Both treks offer fantastic experiences, but the Circuit trek is undeniably more physically demanding due to its higher altitudes and longer duration. Choosing between the two will depend on your trekking experience, fitness level, and the type of adventure you seek.

Annapurna Base Camp is a high-altitude trek suitable for first-timers hiking in the Himalayan region, as it requires no prior trekking experience. The trek involves some steep climbs and descents on stone steps, but overall, the trail is gradual and not overly difficult. It’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a rewarding trekking experience amidst the stunning Annapurna mountain range.

If possible, consider undertaking training hikes at high altitudes to better prepare both physically and mentally for the challenges of high-altitude trekking. Experiencing the increased strain on your body during training will help you acclimate to the higher elevations and build the necessary stamina for your trek. While not everyone has access to high-altitude training, if you can arrange it, we highly recommend doing so for a more enjoyable and successful trekking experience.