Overview

Annapurna Base camp Trek Overview:

This Annapurna base camp trek trail is one most sought-after destinations in  Nepal  Himalayas. This popular destination provides travelers and tourists with an opportunity of spectating magnificent mountain vistas, excursing to the hidden river valleys,

Annapurna base camp trek explores the diverse Gurung and Magar ethnic communities, showcasing their unique traditional stone-thatch-roofed houses and the terrace farming culture. Besides, this hike goes into dense forests with the majority of Rhododendron, pine fir, oaks, and other species of vegetation. Harmonic music of wind and tweeting of birds along with chances of encountering wildlife species of Langur, Rhesus monkeys, deer, and rodents enhance the overall hiking experience.

Several viewpoints like Poonhill, Deurali, and Tadapani offer exciting sunrise and sunset with panoramic views of mountain peaks like Annapurna, Dhawalagiri, Fishtail, and Hiunchuli. Annapurna Sanctuary, a hidden valley amidst beautiful snow mountains, offers tourists a sublime experience of the Himalayas.

A bath at a natural hot spring in Jhinu sets your muscles and comforts tiredness accumulated during the trip. It is widely believed, that these pools have great medicinal and therapeutic values.

If you are seeking a hiking vacation in Nepal, this trip is appropriate for all types of trekkers including beginners. This holiday trip is a versatile walking trip, with plenty of options for shortening and extending duration. Besides, Khopra Ridge Community Trek and Mardi Himal trek are some off-the-beaten-path tracks in the vicinity.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Information:

This trek to the base camp of the tenth highest mountain peak in the world, Annapurna elevated at 8091 meters or 26,545 feet is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. The name of the mountain is combined with two words “Anna” meaning crops and “Purna” meaning sufficient, as these Snow Mountains feed the major river systems along with creating a wet climatic condition for sufficient rainfall helping the farmers with irrigation resulting in the sufficient yields.

Prior to the triumphant summit of Mt.Everest by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, Annapurna was the first mountain over 8000 meters ever summited, and such a feat was achieved by the French Expedition team led by Maurice Herzog on the third of June, 1950.A book titled Annapurna: published in 1951 talks about this expedition.

A short and charming hike into the Annapurna Conservation Area, with the elevation ranging from 1070 to 4130 meters it is a decent trekking trip. However, several sections of the entire journey consist of steep uphill and downhill tracks.

Annapurna massif, a group of towering snow-clad mountains, numbered I, II, III, IV along with Gangapurna, Fishtail, Baraha Shikhar, and several others is located on the northern part of a major touristic city of Pokhara, regarded as some of the most beautiful in Nepal. The range stretches from Manaslu on the east to Dhawalagiri on the west.

This adventure holiday destination in Nepal is visited by thousands of travelers from all over the globe due to its serene walking trails combined with awe-inspiring natural and cultural attractions. From the green hilly region to the alpine meadows of the lower Himalayan region, ABC trek takes you to the center of the Annapurna Himalayas.

The major highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Pokhara the city of 7 lakes, renowned as the gateway to the Annapurna Mountains is probably the most beautiful city in Nepal. An amalgamation of natural wonders including lakes, rivers, mountain vistas, green forests along modernized settlements, this city was termed as Mini Switzerland by Tony Hagen during his wonderful work in the eighties. Besides natural wonders, the cultural aspect of the city is also significant as there are several shrines dedicated to Hindu and Buddhist religions.

This trek is equipped with some amazing viewpoints, offering close encounter views of the snowcapped mountain peaks. Poonhill elevated at an altitude of 3210 is a major highlight during the trek, with a panoramic view of mountains along with rural mountainous settlements in the hilly terrain of Myagdi district.

Besides, the Rhododendron forests in the region are among the largest in Nepal, housing wide varieties of the national flower of Nepal. The most abundant species of Rhododendron in the region are Red, Pink, Purple, and White-colored flowers.

Ghandruk village, known as one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal, offers a major touristic place for domestic and international travelers, providing picturesque sceneries along with Gurung indigenous culture. The traditional houses in the village, built with stone mud, and wood are truly intriguing for anyone.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route:

A drive of around one and half hours from Pokhara takes you to the trailhead Nayapul, on the bank of Modi River. The hiking trip starts after checking in the Permits, alongside the Bhurungdi river bank. The easy walk proceeds through the paddy fields and ethnic settlements of Hile, where the traditional houses with stone thatch roofs provide a cultural delight. On reaching Tikhedhunga, one can explore around the pristine environment with waterfalls for a wonderful time.

The next day, the trek ascends on a steep stone trail of Ulleri village with the majority of Magar ethnic people, with a glimpse of Annapurna South (7219m) and the rugged geography of the vicinity. After, crossing the Banthati, the trail enters into the calm Rhododendron forest following a small stream reaching an isolated settlement of Nangethati and continuing towards Ghorepani.

A mountain pass elevated at around 2800 meters, Ghorepani was formerly a major resting place for traders and travelers. The name was combined from “Ghoda” translating to horse and “Paani” water, as this place was well facilitated with food, water, and accommodation for merchants, travelers, and their horses. At early dawn, a hike to Poonhill (3210m) offers a panoramic sunrise view of jaw-dropping mountain peaks including two eight thousand’er Annapurna and Dhawalagiri.

Retracing back to the respective lodge, the journey continues after breakfast, through the shady Rhododendron forests along the high ridge of Deurali with tremendous views of Annapurna Himalayas, and then heads to Tadapani with several descends and ascends via the green lush forest. The sunset view from Tadapani is a unique experience, as the tone of the snow-covered mountains changes from white to yellow to red before the darkness arrives.

The next destination is Chhomrong, descending to Chuile a small settlement amidst the dense forests then ascending again to a Gurung settlement. Traditional stone houses, terrace farms, and well-facilitated lodges make it one of the popular overnight stops for trekkers. This village has a Tourist Information Centre, dedicated to providing necessary information regarding weather, condition of trails, and any possible natural disasters in the region.

Descending to the suspension bridge, the trail starts to get steeper until the Upper Sinuwa village, and then it heads into the forested trail. Crossing several accommodations like Bamboo, Dovan, and Deurali, the tree lines start to fade into alpine meadows along the bank of Modi River valley.

The glacial region begins from Machapuchhre Base Camp, base camp of the virgin mountain known as Fishtail for its resemblance to the tail of a fish. Then the trail ascends towards the hidden pocket of Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by beautiful snow mountains. The main destination of the trekking trip serves as a wonderful viewpoint for 360 degrees of beautiful mountain peaks.

After a delightful time at the ABC, our journey backtracks to Chhomrong and splits towards Jhinu the spot of hot spring. Down at the river gorge, offers a soothing bath at the pool allowing for the strained muscles to relax. On the last day of the trekking trip, an easy walk beside the bank of the Modi river takes you back to Nayapul, then drive back to Pokhara. However, the trekking trail can be extended towards Landruk, Tolkha, and Dhampus as it was a popular trail among trekkers before the construction of motor-able roads.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Best Season & Weather:

Trekking in Nepal is open mostly throughout the year, and each season provides a distinct feature. However, the spring season (Mar-May) is the best time to take this trip, as the weather and climatic conditions are clear and sunny offering the best views. Moreover, the national flower Rhododendron is in full bloom with four distinct colors; Red, Pink, White, and Purple.

Next, the best time is during the autumn season (Aug-Oct), with similar features to the spring season except for the shorter days. Another set of wildflowers blooms during this time, making it the 2nd spring season. Although the temperatures are slightly lower the winds are stronger.

In winter (Nov-Feb) the higher elevated regions from Dovan receive a significant amount of snowfall. For those who would love to hike in the snow, this would be the best time. Besides, the Annapurna and Machapuchhre base camp offer a perfect destination for snowboarding and skiing activities.

In the monsoon (Jun-Jul) the region’s precipitation is very high, leading to a huge amount of rainfall with thunderstorms, and isn’t the best time for hiking trips. For more information about weather and seasons, please visit here.

Necessary Equipment for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Before taking any trekking trips in the Himalayas of Nepal, the packing of proper equipment is necessary. Vertex Holiday recommends Moderate sized waterproof backpacks for your essentials including medications, water bottles, snacks, and toiletries. Personal clothing, water bottles, torch, crampons, ski poles, good trekking boots, snow-gaiters, sunglasses, snow goggles, headwear for sun and cold weather are necessary.

Besides, a sleeping bag and down jacket will be a lifesaver although the lodges provide a blanked. Luggage should not exceed the weight limit of 14 kilograms as a porter is assigned for two clients. For a more detailed list of equipment and packing list, please visit here.

Annapurna Base camp Trek Permits:

Entering the Himalayas requires permits for international tourists, likewise one requires two types of permits entering into the region. The first one is issued by ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) managed by NTNC (National Trust for Nature Conservation). Another is issued by TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association Nepal) and is called the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Vertex Holiday will undertake all necessary formalities for obtaining both permits and the costs are included in the total cost of the trekking package.

Why Choose Annapurna base camp trek:

When it comes to choosing a trekking trip in Nepal, tourists might fall into a dilemma as the country is equipped with a plethora of destinations including Everest, Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and many other offbeat path tracks. Besides, this trekking can be extended with Annapurna Circuit, Khopra Ridge, Mohare Dada, Mardi Himal, and other treks in the region.

However, the main reason for choosing this trekking trip is its sheer beauty along with the mesmerizing views of snowclad mountain peaks. Besides, the journey takes you to the isolated pockets of the Annapurna Himalayas, excursing through diverse topography along with dense rhododendron forests, river valleys, and the glacial alpine regions.

Culturally, the adventure holiday provides an insight into the ethnic communities of Magar and Gurung people along with the traditional stone houses. The majority of locals are Hindus along with some Buddhists, making it spiritually diverse. The smiling faces of locals along with their warm hospitality will enhance the overall experience.

The cost for this holiday trip is comparatively cheaper compared to other popular trekking destinations offering the best possible experience of the Himalayas. Besides, the trip offers adventure seekers from beginner to advanced level trekkers, an opportunity of testing their stamina and endurance ability.

Annapurna Base camp Trek Challenges:

While hiking in the region, there are some challenges for anyone to be cautious of even though graded as a moderate trip. Several sections of the trail are steep and slippery, causing exhaustion and tiredness. The chance of Altitude Sickness is minimal, however for a person with a bad health condition, it cannot be denied.

Besides, some parts of the trail fall under avalanche-prone areas thus joining a group is recommended, which will be beneficial in case of some unfortunate accidents. Overall, the trekking journey is not difficult, but one must be physically and mentally healthy.

Travel Insurance for Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Proper all-inclusive Travel and Medical insurance are mandatory while taking a trekking trip in Nepal. Any sort of unfortunate events that can occur anywhere including accidents, natural disasters, bad weather, and chances of altitude-related sickness cannot be denied.

In such cases, the insurance will be of great help for covering extra expenses like transportation and hospitalization. The fastest and most convenient means of transportation in the Himalayas are Helicopter services, normally used during an emergency evacuation.

Thus comprehensive Travel and Medical insurance will be vital in saving you in any potentially hazardous situation as well as saving you. For more detailed information about Travel insurance, please visit here.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Food and accommodation:

Food and Accommodation facilities are the best on this wonderful trek to Annapurna Base Camp, as this is one of the most popular trekking regions. At Chomrong where trekkers can enjoy various options, from the simple budget, standard to luxury class lodge accommodation, and best foods. Here, one can check the local German Bakery popular among travelers.

From Chhomrong village onwards all room accommodation is nice and simple with the large warm dining hall. In high season single supplement in rooms are hard to find, needs to book well in advance.

Most rooms are with non-attached bathrooms and toilets. All need to share common toilets and bathrooms.

As for food, nearly all lodges on overnight stop as well on lunch stops provides an excellent food menu to enjoy delicious meals. At Chomrong where one enjoys fresh bakeries also, where all lodges on route ABC serves good healthy meals from continental, Indian, Chinese, and Nepalese meals, snacks. Some lodges also provide Mexican, Italian, Japanese, and Korean food also.

Fitness for Annapurna base camp trek:

Generally, all trekkers with good physical fitness and sound health can join on this wonderful trek to Annapurna Base Camp. A moderate grade walking with some steep ups and downhill, but safe altitude wise where all age-group can enjoy the walk. The safest adventure altitude-wise, but some exercise will be the best before booking this trip. Like jogging, swimming, walking for an hour as well as walking up and down the steps. However, if you are willing to take some workout classes like cardio and exercises for your legs, then they can help you cope with the challenges during the trek.