Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024

Annapurna Base Camp Trek, A Complete Guide Book

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024 is an amazing trekking package designed for our valued travelers. Trekking in the serene land of Nepal is once in a lifetime experience for any and more traveling enthusiasts and trek communities worldwide. Hiking with that near-lost experience is an adrenaline rush on its own. The trek experience here in Nepal is rewarding to the fullest for nature lovers. With every step you take in the foothills of the Himalayas, you will feel the freshness of the air. Nepal is full of adventure, and out of many experiences, Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2022 is rewarding and not even extremely difficult. Annapurna Base Camp trek is one spectacular trek and is also one best hike experiences here in the lap of the world’s 10^th highest Mt. Annapurna I with surrounding peaks.

Annapurna massif consists of six peaks, including Annapurna (8,091m), Annapurna II(7937m), Annapurna III(7,555m), Annapurna IV(7,525m), Gangapurna (7,455m) and last but not the least the ever majestic Annapurna South (7,219m). Sharing the same bed with these mountains is Mt. Macchapucchre, also in the southern part of Annapurna Massif. In this fantastic journey to Annapurna Base Camp trek, you will be setting your foot passing through charming villages, thick rhododendron, juniper forest, deep rivers, and accompanying will be ever beautiful mountain panorama. The beauty of nature is merely explainable in these words. But there is more and more than just the natural magnificence. The culture, customs, ever-smiling people, local meal and cosy feeling you get in the local tea house shoot up your excitement. Gurung and Sherpa community lives up in these mountains. Annapurna mountain gets the name from Hindu Mythology “Ma Annapurna,” the mother of food.

Why do Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024?

Ghandruk easily is one major highlight of ABC Trek. The gurung village, museum, mind-settling view of Macchapucchre, and local customs and practices are all worthy of your time, effort, and, of course, your camera.
The hike is pleasant as you hike through the bank of Modi Khola. On the way, you cross a thick alpine forest in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
World Famous Poonhill for a surreal view of Annapurna Massif and other mountain ranges, including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and more.
Flora and Fauna that are just exotic in Annapurna Conservation Area.
Wholesome trek experience as you pass through unique villages, rainforests, waterfalls, and alpine diversity.
You will reach two base camps, Annapurna Base Camp and Macchapucchre Base Camp.
An awe-inspiring view of some of the world’s highest mountains: Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Annapurna V, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and more.
Behold massive Annapurna South, Annapurna Glacier, and Annapurna Base Camp with 360° view.
Jhinu Danda Natural Hot Spring.

What is the total distance of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is 67km long and takes ten days to complete starting and ending in Pokhara. Sometimes, the whole trek day is extended because of weather unpredictability. As the weather changes quickly up in the mountains, it can add more days to the entire itinerary. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderately graded trek. So, for Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you won’t need high-altitude expedition experience. However, it is best to prepare the body for the hike ahead well.

You can choose from any of two routes to Annapurna Base Camp. One way is taking a direct Jeep to Ghandruk from Pokhara and starting to hike from Ghandruk. And the following path is taking Jeep to Tikhedhunga and walking to ABC through Poonhill.

To Annapurna Base Camp

Kathmandu- Pokhara- Tikhedhunga- Poonhill- Chhomrong- Dovan- Macchapucchre Base Camp- Annapurna Base Camp

From Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp- Himalayan-Bamboo-Chhomrong-Jhinu-Nayapul-Pokhara-Kathmandu.

You can even customize the Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary.

What is the difficulty level of Annapurna Base Camp Trek Nepal?

Annapurna Base Camp Hike is a moderate-grade trek for only ten days, covering 70km. Base Camp Trek to Annapurna Base Camp is one wholesome and rewarding trek that requires serious preparation. As you will be mainly hiking, it is necessary to have solid legs and, in fact, work on increasing stamina. Swimming, cardio exercise, running, jogging, and going gym are just some options to keep you fit and in shape for the long trek ahead. Anyone with a good health condition and fitness level can easily do this trek. You won’t need any high-altitude trek experience for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Usually, the average daily hike is 5-7 hours, and regular walking speed is to be maintained. Packing light is a good idea as you stay in a tea house. So, you don’t need to worry about food and accommodation options. As you trek, the trail pass through rocky mountains, ascents and descends, river banks, and straight and narrow trails. The trail is icy and slippery. So, keeping in mind all the difficulties, it is a must for you to be physically and mentally fit.

What is the cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

As the journey lasts between 8-10 days, the average cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is anywhere between 1100 USD to 1500 USD. And another reason for cost variation is, of course, different trek routes and full trekking days. However, the cost mentioned includes ground transportation, three meals a day in the mountains, and hotels on a BB basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara. And the exact price even consists of all permits necessary, guides, porters and even one full day of Kathmandu Sightseeing. And if you travel in a group, you can get a pretty nice discount.

But in most cases, the total cost depends upon one prime factor, whether you travel privately, plan everything on your own or have opted for guided tours. If you are travelling in a group, it helps you divide guide, transport and porter cost. Group travelling also has that sense of safety.

How safe is Annapurna Base Camp?

Trekking indeed is once in a lifetime experience for any. And trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is a dream for many. ABC Trek is not challenging and is one of Nepal’s safest trekking trails. If you are interested in joining Duke Nepal this season at Annapurna Base Camp, then we assure you of the best itinerary. We hand down to make some best adventure for you. The mystery is in the mountains as the weather is unpredictable, and the setting where you set your foot is nothing similar you see and experience in daily life. Our best itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp includes some days to acclimatise and help you in the best way possible to keep you familiar with the environment throughout the trek.

Our team guide and porter are well trained and equipped with all necessary things that might be needed during the trekking journey. These items include an oximeter, first aid box, blood pressure monitor and other needful articles—Trek is entirely safe as you can freely trek solo even if you are a girl. You can hike freely, take photos, interact with locals and experience the warm hospitality of locals. If you are group hiking, then follow the team leader/guide. As already mentioned, it is nice to be fit for the trek so that hiking can be more of an enjoyable experience. But besides your physical and mental adaption to the trek setting, there is zero risk.

Best season for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Weather in the Himalayas is quite different as it is sudden and drastic. The absolute best time to visit Nepal is Spring and Autumn. During this time, the weather is clear, and the view is magnificent. The Spring season in Nepal is from March to May. During this season, hills are covered with blooming rhododendrons, and the temperature is all suitable. However, the best part of trekking to Everest Base Camp in Spring is the mountainous view visible from morning to late afternoon. Mountaineering expedition also happens in Spring.

The most preferred time for all tourists is Autumn, which is from Late September to Mid-November. The view is crisp, making the whole experience surreal. The weather match the trekkers, and Autumn trek are most wholesome. And you can even trek during winter and monsoon time, but the risk is higher, and you must accompany yourself with a guide and logistics. Duke Nepal recommends trek during the best seasons of Autumn and Spring.

What is the actual temperature in Annapurna Base Camp?

On the initial day of the trek, you will set foot in the massive Himalayas’ low range. In these common lands, you will see hill terrain and alpine forest. When you reach the second half of your trek, trekking gets colder and freezing as you reach a higher altitude. In Annapurna Base Camp, the average temperature reaches anywhere between 2° to -10°C. So, it is necessary to pack nice and well. In the mountains, usually, morning and evening are cooler. Meanwhile, the weather is warm and can change suddenly in the daytime. It is less cold if you compare Annapurna Base Camp with Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Hotels and Tea House in Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024 is easily one of the best trek routes in the world. Trekking to ABC through the foothills and the lap of the Himalayas is a wholesome experience. In cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu, hotels are not any problem as they are plenty in variety. But in the mountains, you mostly find tea houses offering rooms with two single beds and, if lucky, attached bathrooms. This tea house has one shared kitchen, and toilets are mostly outside and primarily squat. Whatever the amenities are like, one thing is for sure; you will be given the best hospitality.

The bed has an excellent mattress, clean bed sheet, pillow, and blanket. As you trek high up in the mountains, tea house gets busier, especially in peak seasons.

What kind of food is there during Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

You will be served food from Nepal during your trek to Annapurna Base Camp. Dal, Bhat is the prime food intake during the tour. Dal is lentil soup, bhat Is boiled rice, and tarkari is a curry made of different veg items and meats. Taste a Nepali meal, and you want just more. Besides Dal and Bhat, you also get to try some international food, including Pizzas, browns, burgers, pasta, and more. The choice is all yours.

For breakfast, you will be given a meal consisting of omelets, porridge, boiled eggs, pancake, chapati, Gurung bread and muesli. In the meantime, you are given standard tea, coffee, and juice.

For lunch, food is, of course, Dal and Bhat, but it’s all your choice. You can choose from fried rice, pasta, dumplings, and other light snack items. Tea, coffee, and juice also are available during lunchtime.

The dinner menu is well the same as that of lunch. You can eat a light dinner and have some Chapatis, vegetables, and curry. Most tea house up in the mountainous region only serves veg meals. If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know in advance, so there won’t be any hiccups.

And for safe drinking water, the tea house has boiled. You can refill bottles from tea house. It might cost you extra for filling up your bottle. If you have water purifiers, ask for normal water from these tea houses and drink it afterwards. You can even buy bottled processed water from tea houses. Please bring some chocolates, protein bars, and nuts for added energy during the trek.

Permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024 requires two permits: the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS(Trekking Information Management System). If you book this trek with Duke Nepal, you don’t need to worry about getting these permits, as you will do the needful. You can get both these permits from Kathmandu or Pokhara and will require a Passport photocopy and two passport-sized photographs.

Permit Costs

SAARC Countries

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) Fee – Rs 3000/-
Trekking Information Management System(TIMS) – $20 flat.

Permits for other country residents

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) Fee – Rs 3000/-($26)
Trekking Information Management System(TIMS) – $20
No Trekking with out guide system has been adopted from late 2023

Please do remember that both these permits are valid for single travel only. Permits cannot be transferred and are non-refundable.

Insurance for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024

Insurance is mandatory for all international trekkers and travelers in Nepal. Tourists usually trek the Himalayas, and things get harsh in this extreme temperature. So, for any helicopter rescue and coverage of medical bills, you must have travel insurance. ABC Trek is moderate high-altitude trekking as you will be crossing an altitude of 4000m. The trail is narrow and steep sometimes. Unfortunately, any unforeseen situation you may face in these mountains will get covered if you have insurance. Insurances save your life and will help you pay medical bills without having to take much pressure. You need to be fully insured before you leave your homeland. Please ensure that the insurance policy covers evacuation on helicopters and medical expenses and that the policy is valid for an altitude of at least 5000m.

Can I trek solo to the Base Camp of Annapurna?

It is possible to do solo or female trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, but it is not recommended. In peak season, trekking solo is a kind of a good idea as you meet fellow trekkers, but during the off-season, when there is not much traffic, it’s dangerous to trek alone in the rough and rugged terrains of Annapurna. Duke Nepal recommends you travel in a group or have everything adequately organized beforehand. Usually, trekking in Annapurna is easy, but sometimes confusion arises as there lie different sub-trails, and you will need the help of a guide, of course.

The higher you hike, see fewer villages, and facilities get scarce. So, if possible, please hire a guide and only go for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Yes, group trekking is a little hectic, but it is all worth it as you will be with someone to assist you in a needful situation.

Mountains are unpredictable, get you altitude sickness, and some bruises if trails are not well maintained, you feel tired and want to throw yourself in bed. And in all these situations, the guide will help you the best. Travelling with a guide has advantages. You can have a clear idea of the average daily walk, total trek distance, the time required and the condition of the trekking trail.

It is just not the journey that makes your time here in Nepal memorable, but it’s more of a connection with locals, nature, and the total setting in these mountains and cities. So, with a guide to assist, you won’t feel out of the place as our guides try their level best to give you as much information on flora, fauna, mountains, locals and their warm hospitality. If you are fully confident about solo trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, then you can do Annapurna Base Camp Trek solo.

What should I pack for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate-rated trek, so you don’t have to pack that extra heavy for the tour. It is nice to pack light even if you are trekking solo or have opted for the guide Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2022 of Duke Nepal. You will stay in tea houses for this trek so a light bag will do the needful. Please check the following items for the tour to Annapurna Base Camp.

Hiking Trousers and Shorts
Polyester Trekking Shirts
Waterproof shell jacket and raincoat
Underwear and min 4 pairs of socks
Hiking Shoes, Sunglasses, Sandals, trekking bag, and medicine of yours
Toiletries, Sleeping bags, Sun cream, hand sanitizer.
Water bottler and purifier

What are the Internet, Electricity, and Mobile Network conditions for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek trail is no new trek trail. So, internet, electricity, and Mobile network are all stable on this trek to Annapurna Base Camp. It’s good compared to other off-the-beaten trekking paths in Nepal. Get one of the SIM Cards from NTC/Ncell, and buy some data packs that will be sufficient for most of the trek. As you trek higher, a network is hard to find. If you make an international call, then the cost will automatically increase. Most tea houses have Wi-Fi available, and you can use them after paying the specific charge.

Until deurali, you get normal electricity. Then, the tea house takes some charge for charging your devices, but the cost is nothing to worry about. Macchapucchre and Annapurna Base Camp operate on solar power, and you must pay to charge the device. As you hike higher, network and internet connection become weaker.

Best Itinerary for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024

Yes, there are different trekking trails to reach Annapurna Base Camp. But almost all routes end at Chhomrong. From Chhomrong, there is just one single way to the base camp. You can hike to Dhampus from Pokhara, continue walking following Landruk, and then to Jhinu, another option to get to Annapurna Base Camp. Duke Nepal recommends following the best itinerary for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024.

Day 01- Kathmandu Arrival
Day 02- Drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu in Luxury Tourist Bus
Day 03 – Drive to Jhinu & Trek to Chhomrong
Day 04- Trek to Bamboo from Chhomrong
Day 05- Trek to Deurali from Bamboo
Day 06- Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Day 07- Trek to Bamboo from ABC
Day 08- Trek to Jhinu Danda and Drive to Pokhara
Day 09- Pokhara Full Rest Day
Day 10- Pokhara Sightseeing
Day 11- Drive to Kathmandu
Day 12 – Departure onwards

Acute Mountain Sickness, symptoms, and preventive measures

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is not common; it only happens when your body cannot adapt to the climate and environment at high altitudes. As a result, the illness varies from person to person depending on factors like age, health, level of physical fitness, and previous experience climbing at high altitudes. Many participants in the Annapurna Camp Trek get AMS symptoms. The condition may become critical if the illness’s symptoms are not appropriately managed. We always advise tourists to trek with guides and local travel companies because of this.

Common Symptoms of AMS

Appetite loss
Nausea and sometimes vomiting
Headache
Dizziness and Tiredness
Sleeping Discomfort
Heart rate increases
Breathing shortness

Common prevention of AMS

When you cross over 3,000 meters, keep your body hydrated by consuming at least 4-5 liters of water daily.
After completing your daily hike, rest as much as possible.
While hiking, eat enough calories and food.
Don’t underdress; keep your body warm.
As soon as you experience most of the symptoms of AMS, descend to a lower altitude.
Ascend gradually and adapt your acclimatization to your body’s needs.
Travel with a local tour operator and guide so they can assist you in planning for all potential outcomes.
Like Diamox, not many medications work to ward off illness. One thing to remember, though: before taking any medications for AMS, speak with relevant medical professionals.

So, here it is. These are the essential things to know for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2024. This article gives you an idea of most Annapurna Base Camp Trek aspects. However, there is plenty to discover and learn on Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Overall, breathtaking vistas of mountains, glacial, and scenery are all rewarding, wholesome experiences. Duke Nepal is here to help. So, for any questions, please feel free to email us @ info@dukenepaltour.com.