Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Malaysia
- Explore Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), two base camps in one trek.
- Step into the base of the world’s 10th-highest peak, Annapurna.
- Witness traditional Gurung villages, the ancient Himalayan tradition of the Annapurna region.
- Try traditional Himalayan cuisine.
- After days of exploring the high Himalayas, end your trek with a natural hot spring bath filled with natural minerals at Jhinu Danda Hot Spring.
- Walk through flower tunnels, trails full up of vivid rhododendron and other wildflower blooms in Spring.
- Witness a high alpine landscape with 360-degree panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Fishtail (6997m)
- Accommodation Stay in a small cozy tea house along the trekking routes.
Annapurna Base Camp for Malaysian Beginners.
If your hiking resume is Broga once, Tabur once, Annapurna Base Camp can still be your win. ABC isn’t a technical climb; it’s a stamina game played over several days, and Malaysians who plan properly often do better than “fit but cocky” trekkers who rush and crash at altitude.
Choose a beginner-friendly itinerary. Annapurna Base Camp 13 - day long routes and another one, the short routes. Annapurna Base Camp short trek route 7 day, both of these offer great Himalaya views, valley, perfect for beginners, as long as professional trekkers with shorter trekking days or longer days.
The trail is mostly stone steps, gentle uphill, and forest paths in high-altitude terrain. Stay mentally flexible because weather, energy, and appetite change at altitude.
The ABC trek asks you to become a slightly better-prepared version of yourself. That means stairs twice a week. That means long weekend walks or small hikes to Nuang, Bukit Gasing etc.
ABC isn't reserved for fitness influencers with six-packs and sponsored hiking gear. ABC isn't a mountain climb. No ropes. No ice axes. No technical skills required. Regular Malaysians complete this trek all the time. With proper acclimatization, proper pacing, positive mentality, and proper planning, even a beginner can conquer Annapurna Base Camp easily.
If you don't have enough time but are hungry for Annapurna, you can also choose Annapurna view short treks, which covers the low foothills of the Annapurna region. First-time hikers, middle-aged Malaysian parents, solo female Malaysian travelers, and Malaysians from all backgrounds have stood at Annapurna Base Camp through our local tour operator.
Difficulty of Annapurna Base Camp from Malaysia
The difficulty of the ABC trek from Malaysia is “beginner-friendly to moderate.” Many choose a compressed itinerary of 4-5 days. It forces faster altitude gain, shorter recovery periods, and higher chances of feeling terrible.
The best tip for the ABC trek is listening to guides, accepting a slower pace, and acclimatizing properly without trying to race with the altitude.
You walk 5-7 hours a day. Altitude is the real “silent difficulty”, because breathing feels thinner above roughly 3,000 m and your sleep may get lighter even when you don’t feel sick.
Annapurna Base Camp - ABC becomes very manageable when you treat it like a steady, multi-day trek instead of 4-5 days race. Respect the Himalayas and its rules.
If you can hike local favorites like Bukit Gasing, Broga, Gunung Datuk, or Nuang with consistent improvement, you’re building the right base for Annapurna Base Camp. If you want to explore more of the magical Annapurna region above 5000m, you can also choose Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days.
Can families with older members or children from Malaysia do the ABC trek?
Yes, families with older members or children from Malaysia can complete the ABC trek 9 days from Malaysia, but it depends on the itinerary and fitness level.
Poon Hill Annapurna Base Camp trek-13 days is perfectly designed with acclimatize walking days, because older trekkers and kids handle steady progress better than a long, exhausting process.
Annapurna View Poon Hill Trek also suitable for all ages people which is about 4-9 days trek all together.
Hire a trekking guide is for your safety secure easy access travel and learning more about the nature, culture and their people.
Hire a trekking porter to carry the weight. Porters can carry a maximum weight of 18-20 kg. We provide a ratio of one porter to two trekkers. Reducing the weight on family members keeps energy stable and lowers injury risk on stairs and descents.
We ensure all the safety measures and take extra care for the old members or children of families, so that you can get the best experience during your trek.
If you plan properly, ABC can become a lifetime rare family trip to the base of the world’s 10th highest peak, Annapurna Nepal.
Best Season for the ABC-Annapurna Trek from Malaysia
October to November is considered as the peak and best season for ABC trek. March to June comes close second. Best time depends on you, which kind of landscape, weather, or what you actually want from your trek.
Now a days December also good time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal, you just have to be well prepared for the trekking gear for the trek.
The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek isn't universal. Every season has its own advantages and gives you something different. Let me break down what you actually get depending on when you go.
ABC Trek in Spring (March to May)
- Vivid rhododendron blooms all over the trail.
- The temperature sits comfortably during walking hours.
- Skies stay clear most of the day.
- Wildlife activity at its peak.
- Clear view of the Himalayan giants of Annapurna.
ABC Trek in Autumn (October to November)
- Most stable weather window. Skies stay predictable mostly.
- Clear and sharper views of the Himalayan giants.
- You get the smoothest trail experience compared to post-winter or mid-monsoon conditions.
- Perfect temperature to trek.
- Every teahouse is operating. Every checkpoint is staffed. Every tea stops ready for business. The whole ABC ecosystem runs at full capacity.
ABC Trek in Winter (December to February)
- Less crowded trails. Experience solitude like nowhere else.
- Might be snow along the trails.
- When the weather is good in winter, it's spectacular. Mountain details are sharper than in any other season.
- The temperature can get cold during the early morning or at night. But, very much manageable with warm and proper equipment.
ABC trek in Summer (June to September)
- Less crowded trails.
- Forests explode in green shades that you won't see any other time.
- Waterfalls, streams flowing everywhere. The landscape feels alive.
- Changing landscape every hour.
Halal Restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara: For Malaysians
There are many Muslim people and traveler at Nepal. Most of the Muslim people live at Pokhara and Kathmandu. You can find many well-managed Halal restaurants.
I personally recommend Muslim travelers who are looking for quality of halal foods to look for reviews of Halal restaurants. Look for reviews from Muslim travelers, Malaysians, Indonesians or people who specifically mention halal.
Favour places that explicitly state halal meat on their signboard or menu. Vegetarian-friendly cafés are also a perfect alternative to Halal restaurants. Locals can have better information on halal restaurants than Google, you can ask a local for help.
Many of the halal restaurant owners in Nepal are Muslim. Restaurants in Nepal change quite a bit. Ownership shifts, menus get updated. So, instead of suggesting outdated lists, I would suggest; to search for the best halal restaurants nearby you on Google. You’ll find plenty of popular halal restaurants nearby.
The thing about Thamel and Pokhara’s lakeside is that it attracts travelers from everywhere; the Middle East, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan. Because of that demand, popular halal restaurants exist. Read the recent review from the past three to six months from a Muslim traveler and hop in.
What Malaysians should know before trekking in Nepal, Annapurna?
- Don’t pack more stuff. Instead, pack warm stuff of good quality. One good quality equipment= 3 bad quality equipments.
- Sun at altitude burns worse than the Langkawi beach. You can literally get sunburned while feeling cold. Weird but true.
- Altitude sickness doesn’t care how fit you are. Altitude respects you if you respect it.
- No ATM’s on the mountain, obviously. Whatever cash you bring from Pokhara or Kathmandu is what you have.
- Bring more than your careful calculations suggest. Emergency buffer isn't paranoia, it's smart planning.
- Bring snacks from Malaysia. Milo packets, dates, nuts, whatever comfort food travels well.
- Attached bathroom may not be available at higher altitudes. You get squat toilets mostly.
- Wi-Fi is available, but it gets slower at high altitudes.
- Hire a trekking porter to carry duffle bag. A porter can carry up to 18-20 kg in a single go.
- If possible, bring SteriPEN UV from Malaysia to make safe to drink water.
- Don’t race with the altitude. Walk slowly and steadily.
Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Malaysia
9 Days short Annapurna Base Camp ABC trek from Malaysia costs approx. 697 USD per person, but costs can be different depends on your required like services, hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, land transportation and flight etc. Malaysian Ringgit (RM) roughly 2,843 to 2,950 depends on the exchange rates.
Another longer duration trekking Poon Hill via Annapurna Base Camp 13 days from Malaysia costs approx. 997 USD. In Malaysian Ringgit, you're looking at roughly RM 4,066 to 4,350 depending on exchange rates when you book.
We connect you with local guides who were literally born on these trails. They grew up playing on paths you'll be walking. Same goes for porters.
We hire from the local community or mountain region specifically. It keeps money flowing back to mountain communities. It matters where your travel money goes. We think it should stay with the people who call these mountains home.
The cost of Annapurna Base Camp from Malaysia, covers your entire days on our include section on the package trip.
The includes are
- Airport pick up and drop off by car, van, or bus.
- Annapurna conservation area trekking entry permit, including park & hot spring.
- All your standard meals while trekking (Breakfast/Lunches/Dinners) with three cups of tea or coffee a day.
- Dessert as apple, pomegranate.
- Snickers chocolate for each person during the trek.
- English-speaking guide.
- Optional Porter service (1 porter between 2 person basic)
- Basic tea house accommodation during the trek.
- Accommodation, Food, Salary, Insurance, and medicine for all staff.
- Basic medical kit.
- Trip certificate.
- Company Duffel bag and a t-shirt.
- Two-night accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
- All ground transportation like Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus.
- Pokhara – Nayapul by private transportation/ Jhinu transportation station – Pokhara by private transportation.
- All government and local taxes.
The excludes are
- Lunch and dinner during your Kathmandu and Pokhara stay.
- Personal equipment.
- Nepal entry visa fee. International airfare.
- Travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation costs.
- Tips for guide and Porter (Tipping is expected)
- Personal expenses include Alcoholic beverages, hot shower, water bottle, cold drinks, hot water, battery charge, and donation. etc.
- Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the ‘price include’ section.
itinerary is totally flexible and customizable. Want to take it slower? Add a couple of extra days. Nobody's rushing you.
Physical Preparation for ABC Trekking from Malaysia
If you’ve already hiked places like Broga Hill, Bukit Gasing, Penang Hill, Bukit Tabur, Gunung Datuk or Gunung Ledang, you’ve got a head start. Kinabalu pushes you hard in two days. ABC spreads the effort across many days.
You need to prepare yourself physically, because you walk 5-7 hours a day in the Annapurna trekking with a gentle uphill climb on high altitude terrain to the Annapurna base camp in Nepal.
The maximum elevation you’ll cross is 4,130 m on Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) it is very doable with the right planning and small physical preparation.
Some Strength Moves and Physical Preparation Tips for ABC Trek
- Step-ups (bench or stair). Slow and controlled.
- Start walking more. Stairs, hills, whatever you have. Your calves will thank you later.
- Split squats or lunges. Great for uneven trail footing.
- Calf raises. Because climbs and descents both punish calves.
- Glute bridges. Helps your hips stay stable when you’re tired.
- Core carries (farmer carry with dumbbells or water bottles). Simple, effective.
- Do downhill practice. Descents wreck knees.
- Cut heavy food and alcohol two weeks before. Your stomach will adjust better in Nepal.
- Zone-2 cardio, 2–3 times a week.
It also depends on your fitness level. Most Malaysian trekkers who prepare for 3-4 weeks before the trip do just fine. The trail is tough, yes. But thousands of regular people finish it every season.
Packing List for Annapurna - ABC Trekking from Malaysia
Packing for Annapurna ABC is tricky. For Malaysians, the biggest adjustment is not walking. It’s temperature and comfort: dry cold air, chilly dining rooms, and simple bathrooms. For Muslim travelers from Malaysia, extra considerations matter.
A smart pack keeps you warm at altitude, modest and comfortable in villages, and ready for prayer and hygiene. Getting this list right saves you money too. Thamel shops in Kathmandu sell everything. But prices vary wildly. Quality varies more. Better to bring trusted gear from home. You can read our article about trekking equipment.
Clothing layers packing list
- 2–3 quick-dry base tops, because cotton stays wet and makes you cold later.
- 1 waterproof jacket or poncho, in case of a change in weather
- 1–2 trekking pants that are modest and breathable, because you’ll sit, squat, and climb a lot.
- Hat, cap, and gloves. Thin liner gloves for mild cold. Thick insulated gloves for freezing mornings.
- Quick-dry fabric underwear.
- A lightweight sarong or extra scarf, because it helps with modesty, warmth, and privacy.
- Sports hijab or buff.
- For sisters: a sports hijab or breathable inner cap, because sweat management matters on climbs.
- Down jacket.
- Fleece jacket.
Footwear packing list
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support.
- 4–5 pairs of good socks, because dry feet reduce blisters more than any miracle cream.
- Camp sandals or slippers
- Crampons.
- Gaiters (optional)
Prayer Essentials
- Qibla app downloaded offline, because signal is not guaranteed on the trail.
- Small Quran or phone app. Offline Quran apps useful. Reading brings peace after exhausting days.
- For wudu: plan around cold water, and carry wipes for comfort when taps are limited.
- Tasbeeh. Simple. Lightweight. Comforting during long evening hours.
- Travel sejadah. Compact. Lightweight. Foldable. Some are pocket-sized now.
Equipment Packing List
- Light backpack, 10-20 liters if porter carries main bag.
- Rain covers for backpack.
- Sleeping bag.
- Trekking poles.
- Headlamp.
- A small compass if you prefer a non-phone backup for direction.
- Sunglasses.
- Water purification tablets.
Electronics Packing List
- Universal adapter villages of Nepal use different plug types in many places.
- High quality Power bank.
- Lightweight camera if you enjoy it.
First Aid (basic kit)
- Any personal medications with copies of prescriptions, because remote pharmacies won’t stock your exact brand.
- Paracetamol for headache
- SteriPEN, UV, or water purification tablets.
- Altitude sickness medication. Diamox if doctor prescribes.
- Plasters and blister pads.
- Antiseptic cream.
- Diarrhea medication.
Packing List of Documents and others
- Passport
- Printed travel insurance documents
- Permits copies
- Few passport photos in a zip pouch.
- Cash in small notes, because ATMs are not reliable and available once you leave Pokhara.
How to do ABC Nepal from Malaysia| Cara Ke ABC Nepal Dari Malaysia
Most Malaysians travelers start from KLIA, Penang (Bayan Lepas), Senai (Johor), Kota Kinabalu, and Kuching can work with transit flight connections to Kathmandu.
And direct flights are common from KUALA LAMPUR to KATHMANDU, Tribhuvan International Airport. Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal with its heritage pilgrimage, temple, and pagoda.
Kebanyakan pelancong Malaysia bermula dari KLIA, Pulau Pinang (Bayan Lepas), Senai (Johor), Kota Kinabalu, dan Kuching boleh bekerja dengan sambungan penerbangan transit ke Kathmandu.
Dan penerbangan terus adalah perkara biasa dari KUALA LAMPUR ke KATHMANDU, Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Tribhuvan. Kathmandu ialah ibu negara Nepal dengan ziarah warisan, kuil dan pagoda.
Tahap Kesukaran Annapurna Base Camp Dari Malaysia
Bagi rakyat Malaysia, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) biasanya berada pada tahap mesra pemula hingga sederhana (beginner-friendly to moderate) jika anda ikut “peraturan gunung” yang mudah dan pilih itinerari yang tidak terlalu padat.
Trek ini bukan pendakian teknikal, jadi anda tidak perlukan tali atau kemahiran memanjat, tetapi anda perlu berjalan berhari-hari di laluan berbukit pada altitud tinggi.
Visa, Permits, and Paperwork: ABC Trek From Malaysia
Paperwork? The unsexy part of any adventure. let me break down what Malaysians specifically need to sort out before landing Nepal for Annapurna trek.
- Nepal visa- Malaysians get a visa on arrival. No embassy visits before flying. No weeks of waiting for approval.
- Passport- a passport that doesn’t expire for at least six months when you arrive.
- Cash USD for Nepal visa fee in the airport
- ACAP-Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for trekking entry.
Itinerary Annapurna- ABC Trek from Malaysia-9 Days
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu 1400m, transfer to hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu to Pokhara drive by tourist bus. (optional flight extra cost)
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and trek to Sinuwa (2250m) approx. 3-4 hrs.
Day 4: Trek from Sinuwa to Himalaya (2900m) approx. 6-7 hrs.
Day 05: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) approx. 5-6 hrs.
Day 06: Trek from ABC to Bamboo (2310m) approx. 7-8 hrs.
Day 07: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda approx. 5-6 hrs. and drive to Pokhara, and overnight in Pokhara.
Day 08: Pokhara to Kathmandu drive by tourist bus. overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 09: Departure to the international airport in Kathmandu. or you can stay longer.
Itinerary- ABC Trek From Malaysia-13 Days Include Poon Hill
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu 1400m, transfer to hotel.
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 820m, by tourist bus approx. 6-7 hrs.
Day 03: Pokhara to Nayapul drive and trek to Ulleri 2010m, approx. 6-7 hrs.
Day 04: Trek Ulleri to Ghorepani 2874m, approx. 3-4 hrs.
Day 05: Trek Ghorepani to Poon-Hill 3210m, to Tadapani 2630m, approx. 6-7 hrs.
Day 06: Trek Tadapani to Chhomrong 2660m, approx. 5-6 hrs.
Day 07: Trek Chhomrong to Himalaya 2900m, approx. 6-7 hrs.
Day 08: Trek Himalaya to A.B. C. 4130m, approx. 5-6 hrs.
Day 09: Trek A.B.C. to Bamboo 2310m, approx. 7 hrs.
Day 10: Trek Bamboo to Jhinu Danda 1780m, approx. 5 hrs.
Day 11: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul to Pokhara drive about 3 hrs. and overnight in Pokhara.
Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus and overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 13: Departure day from Nepal or stay more.
Customizable Itinerary- ABC From Malaysia
Not everyone wants the same kind of trek, and that’s exactly why the ABC plan can be shaped around you, according to your choice.
There are plenty of less explored and hidden gems, which are perfect for side hikes. Maybe you've heard about Poon Hill sunrise. Or that hidden hot spring near Jhinu. There are villages off the main trail where tourists rarely go. You can add trekking days if you want to explore more of the Annapurna region.
If a full 13-day Annapurna ABC trek doesn’t fit your schedule, you still have great options that deliver the Annapurna mountain experience in less time.
Not everyone can take two weeks off. Jobs, families, budgets. Life happens. Some people may have limited time, and we totally understand it.
So, you can choose the Short treks in Annapurna with Hot Spring 3 days from Pokhara. or another one Australian Base Camp 3 Days from Pokhara as well, a fast-focused version for travelers, which is less crowded, more cultural, with ancient Gurung villages.
These treks are designed for those people who have very limited time. You get to explore the ancient Himalayan culture and the lowland of the Annapurna region.
You can also choose ABC 7 Days, a popular short itinerary that keeps the highlight moments without the longer pacing. They're just different doors into the same incredible mountain world. Pick what fits your life. We'll handle the rest.
Travel Insurance for Nepal ABC Trek From Malaysia
If you’re trekking in Nepal, travel insurance is a must. It’s the thing that decides whether a bad day becomes a small headache or a financial disaster. On many trails there’s no road access, and help can mean a long carry-down or a helicopter evacuation.
What to check before you buy travel insurance?
If trekking is covered as an activity. The policy must mention trekking/hiking, up to 4200m for ABC, not just “sports.”
If Your altitude is covered. The policy should state an altitude limit that is higher than your trek’s maximum height.
If helicopter evacuation is covered. Look for “emergency evacuation” and confirm helicopters are included, not excluded.
If medical expenses abroad are covered properly. Hospital treatment in Kathmandu is not something you want to pay for out of pocket.
If repatriation is included. these covers getting you home if you need to return for medical reasons.
If trip cancellation and interruption are included. This matters if you cancel due to injury, illness, or emergencies.
If the coverage limits are realistic. A tiny limit looks cheap until you actually need it.
What to carry on the trek?
- A PDF of your policy on your phone. And provide to your trekking operator agency.
- A printed copy of the emergency contact page.
- Your policy number and hotline number in your wallet. Make it easy for your operator agency to help you fast.
- Your family’s contact list.
Tips if you need to claim travel insurance later
- Keep every receipt. Hospital bills, pharmacy bills, transport, everything.
- Ask for a doctor’s note. Clear diagnosis and treatment help claims.
- Take photos of documents.
down dates and locations. Small details save big arguments later.
Mini checklist before you fly out
- If Policy covers your maximum altitude.
- If Policy includes emergency evacuation.
- If Policy includes medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
- If any health conditions are declared.
If you saved the PDF + emergency numbers offline
FAQ’s- Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Malaysia
Is Annapurna Base Camp harder than Everest Base Camp?
No, the EBC trek is considered harder than the ABC trek.
Do I need a permit for the ABC trek?
Yes, you need an Annapurna Conservation Area permit for ABC trek.
Is there Wi-Fi on the ABC trek?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available in most of the villages, but it is unpredictable. Wi-Fi slows down as you gain altitude. Some tea house might charge few hundred Nepali rupees for access to WI-FI.
Is the itinerary of ABC trek from Malaysia flexible and customizable?
Yes, the itinerary of ABC trek from Malaysia is completely customizable and flexible. You can add trekking days, substract trekking days all by yourself.
How much does ABC trek cost from Malaysia?
The Annapurna Base Camp Short Trekking-9 days costs approx. 697 USD, RM 2819-2900. The classic ABC-13 days trek costs approx. 997 USD, RM 4450-4550.
How much does Annapurna short treks in Nepal-3 days costs?
The Annapurna short treks in Nepal-3 days costs approx. 347 USD.
What is the best month for ABC trek?
Every season has its own uniqueness: it’s on your which season match your vibe. March to May and September to November is considered best month for ABC trek with clear skies, stable weather, best mountain views.
Can I do ABC trek in December or January?
Yes, it's cold but very much manageable with proper layer of warm gears. The trail is less crowded during this season.
What food is available on ABC trek?
You can get Nepali, western, and European foods in the mountain and every food are different taste. Nepali food Dal Bhat is the highly recommend it comes with plain rice, lentil soup, veg curry, pickle etc. as long as available food sandwich, momo, noodle, fry rice, noodle soup, pasta, pizza, spaghetti, porridge, pancake, rosty, fry potato, French fry, chapati, and many more.
Is helicopter rescue available?
Yes. Insurance must cover it. Evacuations happen from base camp if needed.
Can I do ABC if I only have one week of leave?
Yes, you get an alternative of ABC-7 days trek, if you have limited time. Many travelers choose a short ABC itinerary and accept long driving days and faster trekking days. Optional you can take domestic flight like KTM-POKHARA-KTM.
Can beginners complete ABC trek?
It’s doable for beginners who train a bit and walk at a steady pace. The challenge is the back-to-back days, not technical climbing.
What’s the highest point on the ABC-Annapurna Base Camp trek?
Annapurna Base camp is around 4,130 m (commonly cited). That’s why pacing and hydration matter.
How do Malaysians get to the ABC starting point?
Most Malaysians fly into Kathmandu, then but drive to Pokhara, then private transport drive to the trailhead.
Do I need a visa for Nepal from Malaysia?
Yes, you need visa, and Nepal often provides visa on arrival for many nationalities also Malaysian people, but rules can change sometimes. Check Nepal’s official immigration site before few days of flying.
How much weight does your porter carries?
One trekking porter carries weight between of 16-20 kg
Can I charge my phone on the ABC trek?
Usually yes, but teahouses may charge a small fee at higher villages.
Is ABC safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, base camp is safe for solo female travelers but we highly recommend to take the guide from the local tour or trek operator company, for your safety, security, and easy access.
Can older hikers do ABC?
Yes, if they choose a slower itinerary. Steady pacing beats speed every time.
