annapurna base camp trekking In nepal

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

A soul-enriching walk to take you across diverse mountain landscapes and cultures in pristine Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp trek should be on every trek lover’s bucket list. Stopovers at quaint little Gurung villages emanating oodles of peace, coming in close contact with diverse Himalayan flora and fauna, a journey full of memorable challenges to expand one’s perceived boundaries, and the glory vision of Mt. Annapurna (8091 ft) from amazing vantage points, ABC trek Nepal  is a trove of magic unleashed!
Annapurna Trek in Nepal follows an itinerary groomed to perfection, having dedicated sufficient time to acclimatization and rest. It is a 12-day trek, unlike most other treks in the greater Himalayas of Nepal which are way longer. Taking the ABC trek can prepare and inspire voyagers for the longer and more stratified Annapurna Sanctuary Trek next.

What is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

A trek of immense girth and quality, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal is an expedition popular around the world for beauty, awe-inspiring snowscapes and Nepalese indigenous culture study. The trek brings the expeditionist up close with a swashbuckling perennially snow ensconced eight thousander peak. Despite the fatal attraction the Annapurna mountain trek holds for outdoors lovers, the base camp trek doesn’t demand mountaineering training for making a successful summit. Moderately fit trekking enthusiasts with some prior experience of voyaging in the greater Himalayas are welcome to cherish the Nepal ABC trek.

Why should you go for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna base camp trek package holds several marvels for Himalayan travelers. From stunning views and photo-opps from great vantage points to exploration opportunity for culinary aficionados at Gurung, Lepcha, and Gorkha villages -- the trip holds a lifetime’s worth of opportunities to learn and make memories. Here is what to look forward to--

• Magnificent distant views of the snowline begin from early on in this trek, right from Pokhara!
• Constantly evolving and enhancing angles to the snow ensconced Machhapuchhare, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli peaks that stay with you all along the Annapurna trekking tour.
• Red blushes of photogenic rhododendron thickets in the summer months found on the trail from Ghandruk to Chomrong.
• Dense forests and wildlife spotting opportunities in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
• Entering the thrilling alpine landscape beyond the Annapurna sanctuary.
• A classic tea-house trek experience with stays at beautiful homestays, genuine hospitality of the locals, a taste of indigenous delicacies and exposure to local cultures of simplicity.
• Meeting adventurers and trip hobos from many countries and many cultures to bond with, exchange notes with and grow on the journey with -- a deeply gratifying social experience away from the constricting boundaries of civilization!

How high is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Trekking Annapurna by the trail leading to its base camp is classified as a moderate to difficult trek, depending on its altitude and gradation of gaining altitude, from the lowest at 1938 meter at Ghandruk to the highest point at 4130 m at Annapurna Base Camp.

When to Visit for Annapurna base camp trekking?

The Pokhara Annapurna Trek route on which the trek starts from Nayapul, autumn is considered the best season. The weather remains considerably clear, providing the best views and accounts for more wildlife sightings in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Here is a brief look into ABC Nepal Trek around the year in different seasons--
March-May
Blue skies and great views are not hard to get during this period. The weather remains mildly warm with a lot of flower blooming on the way, especially rhododendrons. Occasional haze is common.
June to August
Annapurna short trekking is less popular during these rainy months. The trails remain slippery, plenty of leeches are found in the forest area, treks organized during this time run a risk of suffering unplanned halts along the way due to bad climate.
Mid-September- November/Mid-December
This is the best time for obtaining smashing mountain views, enjoy moderate temperature and play under clear skies in the great outdoors of Annapurna region trekking.
December-February
Freezing cold nights during this time can be off-putting as are the foggy mornings. Clear skies are more frequent, upping the chances of getting good views. Prepare for tackling snow at the higher reaches or restrict your trek to lower regions.

How to reach Annapurna Base Camp?

To access the trek, participants must reach Pokhara from where they will be taken to Nayapul. From Nayapul, the walk uphill begins and over a period of 12-days, having touched Annapurna base camp, ends at Ghandruk. Ethnic Gurung settlement villages like Chomrung, Dovan, Deurali, and Ghandruk remain of great cultural significance on this route while the Machhapuchhare base camp is one of the highlights of photographic interests.  

Are there shops available along the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Trail?

Yes! The ABC trail is not as cut off from civilization as one would think!
You will find plenty of shops at Nayapul to get your utilities, medicines etc. The tea-house stops on the way at the villages of Chomreang, Dovan, Deurali and Ghandruk too, you can find stores for necessities, trek gears and medicines.
However, remember to wrap up all banking work at Pokhara because ATM points won’t be available beyond.

How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Base Trek?

The Annapurna short trekking route takes 12 days to conclude, from Nayapul to Ghandruk. Another two days get added in the itinerary when considering journeying the distance between Pokhara to Nayapul and Pokhara to Ghandruk.

What to pack for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

• Large or medium size backpack, and a duffle side bag for extras
• Water bottle
• Sun hat
• Warm cap
• Base layers
• Fleece jacket
• Outer jacket
• Rain jacket (essential for the monsoon months)
• Sturdy trekking shoes and a pair of floaters
• Flashlight
• Trekking pants, several pairs
• UV-protection glasses
• Thermal socks
• Sunscreen

Is there a probability of Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness is possible in Annapurna Base Camp trek, though it is less common than in other trek routes of Nepal Himalayas. The trekking team will have trained personnel to handle medical situations and carry out necessary rescue operations when needed.
Expeditioners on Annapurna range trek and ABC treks are encouraged to take a course of Diamox as precautionary for altitude sickness, under the supervision of a trained medicine man.

How busy is the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking trail?

Depending on the seasons, the Annapurna Base Camp could be scarcely populated to very busy. Especially in the months of March-May, you will find this route bustling with trekkers.