Where is Annapurna Base Camp Trek Located?

  • The Annapurna Base Camp trek is located in the Annapurna sanctuary, which is north of the tourist attraction, Pokhara city. The Annapurna Base Camp trekking route takes you to the north-central region of Nepal in the Gandaki zone. Kali Gandaki borders it on the west while Marsyangdi River on the north. It begins from Nayapul and heads to the center of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

What are the highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The major highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp trek are listed below:

  • Get introduced to the Gurung, Magar cultural communities and their culture
  • Scenic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna South, Mt. Machhapuchre, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Himchuli
  • Cross long bridges cross Kimrong river and Modi river
  • Explore flora and fauna in the wilderness of Bamboo and Deurali
  • Take a bath at the Jhinu hot spring

What permits are needed for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek permits required are:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP) permit
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) permit

Note that these permits can be received from the Nepal Tourism Board office at Kathmandu and Nepal Tourism Board Service Center, Pokhara.

How much distance does Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cover? How long is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

  • Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from Nayapul heads to Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Sinwa, Deurali, and ABC. From ABC, the route leads to Bamboo, then Jhinudanda, and then Nayapul. Annapurna Base Camp trek distance covers 115km. In that sense, you will be walking for about 15 to 20 km per day. Annapurna Base Camp tour is 12 days long. Excluding the days for bus rides, ABC trek takes nine days.

How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

  • Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty is classified as moderate. For avid trekkers, the ABC trek will be rather easy. However, for amateur trekkers, the ABC trek can be challenging in the sense that they will have to catch a breath while taking ascends and descends. There are many ascends and descends in the stone steps that you have to take, which will make you tired. If you have a well-crafted Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary, it will be very easy for you to stroll towards the destination while enjoying the views.
  • If you have any medical conditions, you need to notify your travel agent so that preparations can be made accordingly. All in all, it is only required that you take up exercise, walking, running, or any form of activity a month or two before the trek to flex your legs and muscles.

Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek Safe?

  • Annapurna Base Camp trek is safe since it is a popular trekking destination, and there are many trekkers in the trail all around the year. However, you may fall victim to scammers who are looking to get a buck out of tourists. Hence, it is best if you hire a guide.

What is the best season and month for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

  • Trekking in Nepal is prevalent in almost all the seasons due to the diverse geography and climate. However, the Spring season from March to May and the Autumn season from September to November are known best for ABC trek. The visibility during these months is unobstructed, skies clear and weather pleasant making the plants bloom and the mountains observable.
  • The weather in summer and winter can be unprecedented, so you can expect rainfall or snow anytime. When it snows in the Himalayan region, it reaches 3 to 4 feet. The trail is not visible in these days, and the snow makes it difficult to see so you might get lost. Also, to minimize the burden of carrying extra warm clothes, you should take the ABC trek in Spring and Autumn.

Do you need a Guide for Annapurna Base Camp?

  • Taking a guide to the Annapurna Base Camp is not mandatory; however, it is suggested. Since the Annapurna region is not categorized as a restricted area, so the government has set no such rule in regards to hiring a porter or a guide.
  • However, Annapurna Base Camp is bound to be easy if you take guides and porters. The porter carries your luggage , so you do not have to carry any burden and can trek freely. A guide, on the other hand, makes it easier for accommodation accessibility. Guides can be useful in negotiating with the locals and will suggest the best accommodation and food options.

Does altitude affect the body during Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

  • From 3000m upwards, there are signs that your body show to indicate Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness, in severe terms where the body does not find sufficient oxygen in the air. Often it results in vomiting, headaches, dizziness, loss of appetite, rapid pulse, and more. However, since the Annapurna Base Camp height is only 4130m so, you might not suffer from AMs, but if you do then, it could be only mild Altitude sickness. If you are an avid trekker, your body will most likely not be affected by Altitude sickness even at Annapurna Base Camp.