Annapurna Base Camp Trek – Everything You Need to Know

Trekking in Nepal is one of the most popular adventure activities and a lifetime experience for travel enthusiasts. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as the ABC Trek, is definitely the most remarkable hiking trail in the hills of the Annapurna Himalayan range. Situated in the north of the stunning lake city of Pokhara, this classic trekking trail is suitable for both new and experienced trekkers. Thousands of trekkers visit the Annapurna circuit for a memorable trekking experience every year. While hiking the world’s 10th highest mountain peak is physically exhausting and challenging, it is the only way to experience the spectacular beauty of the region. This beautiful trek will take you through the lush green hill towards the circuit of the massive Annapurna Massif at the height of 4,130m.

About Annapurna Base Camp 

Also called the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is breathtakingly beautiful. It is a massif consisting of some of the highest mountain peaks, including Gangapurna (7,455m), the iconic one Annapurna South (7,219m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna III (7,555m) and Annapurna IV (7,525m). As you hike through the Annapurna Sanctuary, you come across and witness the most striking views of Dhaulagiri, Pungda Danda, Hiunchuli, Fishtail, Pisang, Tilicho, Annapurna Massif, and many other famous mountains of Nepal. The entire trek will help you experience the most incredible sights of gorgeous valleys, Deep Rivers, juniper, dense forests of rhododendron, and the diverse culture and tradition of the Gurung community. Also, you will be witnessing the prominent Poon Hill viewpoint and the natural hot water pool at Jhinu Danda.

Permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Since the Annapurna base camp is situated inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need two types of permissions – TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) and ACAP (the Annapurna Conservation Area Project). While a TIM card is a basic requirement for all treks in Nepal, ACAP is needed for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can get both permissions by submitting a copy of your passport and photographs.

ACAP Permit Fees

• 3,000 NPR (approx. US $27) for foreigners
• 200 NPR for travellers from SAARC nations like India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and others

TIMS Permit Fees

• 2000 NPR for foreigners
• 400 NPR for Indians and other SAARC nationals

You can get permission from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu and the TAAN office (Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal) in Pokhara.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary

The total trek to Annapurna Base Camp is around 67 km long, and it takes 9 days from Pokhara to reach there and get back to Pokhara. However, due to unpredictable weather conditions and acclimatisation requirements, it may take more days to reach the Annapurna Circuit trek. Here’s the itinerary for your guidance and planning.

• Day 1- Arrive in Pokhara
• Day 2- Reach Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk
• Day 3- Trek from the village of Ghandruk to Sinuwa
• Day 4-Trek to Deurali
• Day 5-Reach Annapurna Base Camp
• Day 6-Walk from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
• Day 7- Jhinu Hot Spring
• Day 8- Reach Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
• Day 9-Departure

Best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

The weather condition in the Himalayan range is quite different from other places. So, it is vital to trek here at the most suitable time or month. Normally, spring and autumn seasons are considered the best time for the Annapurna mountain trek. The spring season includes the months of March, April, and May when the weather is pleasant with clear visibility. Moreover, the mountains are open and easy to reach from morning to late afternoon. The autumn season, from September to November, is also a great time to plan a trek to Annapurna. It is the time of the year when most of the festivals and events in Nepal are celebrated with great zeal, bringing joy and prosperity. So, both spring and autumn seasons will allow you to have the most memorable trek experience in the most comfortable environment and temperature in the mountains.

Remember, it rains almost every day in Nepal during Monsoons. Thus, it is advised to avoid trekking during the rainy season as the trekking routes are wet and muddy, making the trek even more difficult.

Difficulty Level at the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a moderate to difficult level trek. It is not something that you plan randomly on weekends without any preparations. While Annapurna trekking routes are very well managed by the authorities, it is recommended to plan and prepare well to make the trek the most amazing experience of life. Annapurna Circuit has less risk of landslides, so it is a safe place to trek. However, the trek will take you to an elevation of 4,130M with some long trekking distances. Thus, it is suitable for those who have prior experience of trekking in high altitudes.

The trek routes consist of steep descents, long climbs, and tough roads. People with good health and fitness level, with a positive attitude, can easily complete the trek. However, those suffering from health conditions like lung, heart, or blood disorders need to inform their doctors first and ask for guidance before taking any step.

Facts about Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• Annapurna is not just one mountain, but a massif with numerous peaks
• The base camp lies on the 10th highest mountain, called Mount Annapurna, with an elevation of 8,091 m above sea level.
• Every year above 50 thousand people trek to the Annapurna base camp
• There are tea houses at the camp encircled by snow-capped mountains
• There is a majority of Gurung and Magar culture of Nepal in the Annapurna circuit
• During your trek, you will get to witness honey hunters, the Himalayan giant honeybee, and the largest rhododendrons forests in the world.
• You will have the best sunrise experience over the Annapurna base camp.
• Also, the Annapurna conservation area is home to 474 birds, 102 mammals, 39 reptiles, 22 amphibians, rarest animals like Blue sheep, red panda, Himalayan Thar, snow leopard, etc.
• One of the former monarchies, Mustang, nearby the Tibet border, lies in the Annapurna range, but trekking to the Upper Mustang is restricted due to border safety.

Important Things to Carry for Annapurna Mountain Trek

• Hiking trousers and shorts
• Extra pair of socks
• Light polyester trekking shirts
• Toilet paper & wipes
• Rain cover
• Walking stick
• LED torch (with extra batteries)
• Sleeping bag, hand sanitiser, towel, toothpaste, and brush
• A waterproof shell jacket or raincoat
• Thermal innerwear
• Hat, gloves, and neck cover
• A water bottle and water purifier
• Medication / first aid kit
• Sunglasses
• Sun cream
• Sleeping bag
• Snacks like dry fruits, energy bars, etc.

You can extend the trek hiking through the villages of Tolka, Ghandruk, Pothana, and Landruk to explore the local culture and people and relax amid the serene and beautiful nature. It is recommended to travel with an expert local guide or travel company so that they can help you throughout the trail.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a dream destination for trekking and adventure lovers around the world. However, it requires proper preparation and guidance to have the best trekking experience there. Book one of the Nepal packages from Veena World to witness the best of highlights and have a memorable trekking experience.