Annapurna Base Camp Trek is known as one of the beautiful, popular and short treks located in the Annapurna region. It is probably the best legendary and classic trek in the world, offering the stunning views of iconic mountain Himchuli, Annapurna South, Barahi Sikhar, Annapurna I, Tent Peak, Singachuli, Glacier Dom, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhar. Also, this trekking route offers you the best experience of Nepali village, local people and the lifestyle of the remote Himalayan region. For the trekker, it will be a great experience and very hard to get involved with their culture. The trail route pass through the various landscape and traditional villages like Gurung village and Magar village, also in the various section of trekking trail you will enjoy walking with a dense forest of Rhododendron, bamboo, and Alpine forest till the end of destination. 

Mt Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain in the world whooping 8091m and the base camp stands at 4130m above seas level. The trekking up to Annapurna base camp will take you via Mt Machhapuchhare (fishtail) which is revered by the Nepalese beauty for its unique display and the highest point of your trek.

 While walking through the trail you reach the large rock overhanging, known as Hinku Cave. The entrance to the cave is blocked. You will spot high cascading waterfalls and you will get to learn about people of different ethnicity when visiting the Ghandruk village. Depending on which route you choose, you may not pass through Ghandruk though. The trail offers you the other trekking route too like Ghorepani Poonhill, the trail is the same from Chomrong onward.

Highlights of the ABC Trekking

• This trek route will take you to the heart of the Himalaya region.it offers the stunning views of the mountains also the remote life of high-altitude residence. This trek route attracts so many trekkers as it is one of the shortest treks to base camp with extra thrill and adventure.

• Fantastic trek into the heart of the Annapurna

• Visit Poonhill for stunning views of the whole Annapurna Range.
• Lodge-based trek
• You can relax in the natural hot spring water at Jhinu Danda while returning back from the Base camp.
• Get chance to explore Machhapuchhre Base camp (3700 meters) and Annapurna Base camp(4130m)
• Panoramic view of Annapurna range, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre (fishtail), Barahi sikhar, Singha Chuli from the base camp.
• Walkthrough the forests of Rhododendron.

Why is Annapurna Base Camp Trek the most popular treks in the world?

The Annapurna Base Trek Camp (ABC) is one of the most famous treks in the world. It verbatim brings you face to face with an eight-thousanders – for a modest – onerous trek, it’s incredible! The captivating Annapurna sierra includes the world’s tenth highest peak. Annapurna I (8,091 m) holds an almost calamitous allure for mountaineers. It has the highest fatality ratio among the eight-thousanders. This dire scent apart, the ABC trek holds several treasures for the mountain lover.

Mountain views that leave you spellbound

The Annapurna range hones your appetite for mountain views right from Pokhara. This is even before you start the trek. At Ghandruk, you get distinct views of Machhapuchare, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Views of different peaks of the Annapurna massif and Machhapuchare stay with you all the way till Sinuwa. The edge of Machhapuchare tantalizes you at Dovan. As you burst out of the forest past Himalaya and Deurali, Machhapuchare emerges before you in its full glory.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Landscape on the Trial

A trekker takes in the view of the whole Annapurna range on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. Machhapuchare, the ‘fish tailed mountain’, is revered by the Nepalese for its exquisite beauty. It is believed to be one of the homes of Lord Shiva. It has never been officially conquered. In addition to Machhapuchare, you will see Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna and Hiunchuli up close.

View of Machhapuchhre Mountain from Annapurna Base Camp

Beautiful sunset over Machhapuchare as seen from Machhapuchare Base Camp. The Annapurna Base Camp is a small chunk of dwelling opposite the Annapurna glacier. As you look up from the tip of the glacier, you come eye to eye with the Annapurna massif. Annapurna I, III and South, Gangapurna, Gandharvachuli, and Machhapuchare are all there to meet your gaze when your eyes rest upon them.

Cultural Program on ABC trek

This is an amazing cultural program organized by the BharalAdventure team. On the last day of the trekking, you will give you the sights of the Nepalese culture. You can enjoy the camaraderie with the trekking crew members upon successful completion of the trekking. Book the diversified and vibrant trekking in Nepal package of Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) which is forwarded by the Bharal Adventure Pvt. Ltd. In conclusion, we have a specialized team of the trekking crew for the Annapurna region. We will make your trip worth it as well as an awesome adventurous journey.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Map:

ABC Trekking Route Map: with important locations

Best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC)

Autumn (Sept to Nov)

The weather is stable with a clear blue sky. It is neither too hot nor too cold. Hence, the temperature is just outstanding. The average daily temperature for ABC in this season is 14-15 degrees at day and 5-8 degrees at night. As a result, the views are undisturbed, completely peaceful and clear. As this season will be full of trekkers, it is also safe for solo-trek. Competitive services will be available to feel.

Winter (December to February)

Even with some blue sky and sun, it is pretty cold with occasional snowfalls & storms, especially when you reach higher altitudes. December is normally dry, stable, and clear so this month could be a preferable choice. The average daily temperature for ABC in this season is 8-12 degrees at day and less than 2 degrees at night. In this season along with the stunning views, you will find nature & its ecosystem unique and mesmerizing. The blooming rhododendrons, the green hillsides turning into white, pink, and red colors could be observed. A quiet and peaceful route and the cost of food & accommodation would be comparatively less.

Spring (March to May)

In March/April, the surrounding is colorfully beautiful. The weather is sunny and warm with outstanding views. Though it will be dry and dusty, but not as many would think. The average daily temperature for ABC at this time is 15-18 degrees at day and 7-8 degrees at night. Though some days may be cloudy as it is pre-monsoon season. Clouds may appear after midday with slight haze and precipitation. Especially, Crystal clear view of the unique ecosystem all around. The colorfulness of many blooming flowers in upper hills and trekking paths could be observed. The temperature will be moderate with comparatively fewer trekkers than in autumn.

 Don’t forget following documents to apply for Annapurna Base camp Permit

 

• Passport copy
• 2 passport size photos

The permit will be issued by the department of Nepal tourism board in Katmandu. You need an (ACAP) Annapurna Conservation Area permits and TIMS card to trek Annapurna Base camp.

 

Additional Info

The Trekking Group

For this trek, there will be one leader, 1 assistant leader (8 trekkers:1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters for carrying luggage  (2 trekkers:1 porter). This arrangement ensures that should anybody in the group is sick, the trip can still go ahead as planned. Our experience has led us to believe that a maximum of 12 people is an optimum number to fully enjoy a trip. However, if a traveler is interested in larger groups then that can be arranged too.

Accommodations

We will be staying at 3 star hotel in Kathmandu, 3 star hotel in Pokhara and tea-houses during the trek. All accommodations are on twin-shared basis.Single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional USD 250. Although single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and the trekking regions at lower elevation, it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.

Meals

During our Annapurna Base Camp Trek, we can enjoy authentic Nepalese food as well the more common international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.). Breakfast and dinner will be served from the tea-houses or from a lodge menu where we spend the night whereas lunch will be served on the way to the next destination. All meals will be provided during trekking while only breakfast will be available while in Kathmandu and Pokhara. There will also be welcome and farewell dinners for guests.

Leader(s) & Staff Arrangements

The most significant thing that makes our Annapurna Base Camp Trek successful, enjoyable and memorable is the skilled, experienced, courteous and helpful trek leader and the crew members with ability of operating our days in the mountain smoothly. Our trek will be led by the best and most professional leaders. All of Bharal Adventure's trekking leaders are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, leadership skills and personal aptitude. With an objective of sustaining local communities, Bharal Adventure only employs local staff who have adequate knowledge about culture, ecosystem, flora, fauna, geography, and history of their local region/s. The trek and expedition leaders have undergone the following trainings:

• Intensive Wilderness First Aid
• Trekking Guide Training
• Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet
• English Language
• Conservation and Biodiversity
• Rock climbing, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (for expedition leaders).

Porter Care

Bharal Adventure is firmly committed to porter rights. We make sure that all our porters are well treated and well paid. Furthermore, Bharal Adventure also provides the required level of shelter, clothing and footwear that these harsh environments demand. Porters who become sick are treated with the same care and attention as other team members. We have previously used helicopters at company's expense to rescue porters from dangerous situations. And for the porter's sake, all trekkers keep the weight of their luggage under 15kgs/33 pounds. We also support the work of International Porter Protection Group (IPPG), making our resources available to them to help improve the working conditions of the porters.

Environmental Concerns

The Annapurna Region is stunningly beautiful, but equally fragile. Future generations have just as much of a right to appreciate it as we do and so the tourism industry has an obligation to protect and preserve it. Bharal Adventure employs a 'zero impact' policy on the natural environment and the traditional communities that live there. Bharal Adventure, therefore, enforces a number of do's and don'ts. Bharal Adventure's experienced staff can advise us on how to minimize our impact on the local environment. To find out more about the clean-up campaigns and environmental awareness events, Bharal Adventure works with KEEP.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition upon joining any of Bharal Adventure's trips that all clients be insured for comprehensive expenses that might incur due to medical issues or accidents (this includes air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and treatment costs). Please note that we don't arrange or sell insurance.

Acclimatization

All of Bharal Adventure’s treks are planned with high degree of awareness of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Going up at higher altitude too fast causes a medical condition serious enough to kill. We understand that for a safe trek, it is essential to allow sufficient time for acclimatization. Sensible planning is therefore required to minimize the risk of AMS. Bharal Adventure's itineraries are designed to prevent AMS as much as possible. But, it is important to remember that some visitors are more vulnerable than others.

Physical Condition & Experience Requirements

This is moderate trek suitable for passionate walkers with the ability to walk at least 5-7 hours a day with a light day pack. Walking in higher altitudes is more physically demanding than walking in lower altitudes; however, if we are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have a positive attitude, self confidence and strong determination, we can accomplish this trek successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly for some weeks prior to the trip is a good idea to enhance our strength and stability. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood diseases are required to consult their doctor before taking the trip. It is also advised that you inform Bharal Adventure about the medical condition before booking the trek.

Best Time to Travel

Autumn (Sept. to Nov.) and Spring (March to May) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather is sunny and warm with outstanding views. If you wish to avoid crowds and enjoy some alone time with nature then taking this trip during winter (Dec., Jan. and Feb.) could also be an option. However, the temperature during winter could be harsh for most guests. Trekking in the Summer or Monsoon seasons (June to Aug.) will be affected by rain but the Summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist.

Equipments & Packing List

This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Also, understand that the items listed below will vary a little according to the season and the trek duration. Those items marked by an asterisk (*) are provided by Bharal Adventure inclusive in the service. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.

Important documents and items

• Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
• Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
• Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
• Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc.

Head

• Bandana or head scarf, also useful for dusty conditions
• Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
• Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Prescription sunglasses (if required)

Upper Body

• Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
• Light and expedition weight thermal tops
• Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
• Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
• Down vest and/or jacket *
• Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable

Hands

• 1 pair of lightweight poly-liner gloves.
• 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
• 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)

 Lower Body

• Non-cotton underwear briefs
• 1 pair of Hiking shorts
• 1 pair of Hiking trousers
• 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
• 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers
• 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric

Feet

• 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
• 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
• 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water resistant, ankle support, “broken in”)
• 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
• Cotton socks (optional)
• Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version

Sleeping

• 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)*
• Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)

Rucksack and Travel Bags

• 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
• 1 large duffel bag *
• A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables, should have good shoulder padding
• Small padlocks for duffel-kit bags
• 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)

Medical

• Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
• Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
• 1 skin-blister repair kit
• Anti-diarrhea pills
• Anti-headache pills
• Cough and/or cold medicine
• Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetylzolamide
• Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are a respiratory depressant.
• Water purification tablets or water filter
• 1 set of earplugs
• Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies

Practical Items

• 1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing-repair kit
• 1 cigarette lighter, 1 small box of matches
• 1 compass or GPS(optional)
• 1 alarm clock/watch
• 1 digital camera with extra cards and batteries
• large Ziplocs
• 2 water bottles (1 liter each)
• 1 small folding knife
• Binoculars (optional)
• 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks

Toiletries

• 1 medium-sized quick drying towel
• Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
• Multi-purpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
• Deodorants
• Nail clippers
• Face and body moisturizer
• Female hygiene products
• Small mirror

Personal Hygiene

• Wet wipes (baby wipes)
• Tissue /toilet roll
• Anti-bacterial hand wash

Extras/Luxuries

• Reading book
• Trail map/guide book
• Journal and pen
• iPod
• Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble, playing cards (to help you pass the time at teahouses and/or camps)
• 1 modest swim suit
• Binoculars (optional)
• Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
• Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
• Lightweight pillow case (in case your teahouses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow