Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Can I extend my holiday like a day trip in Kathmandu or other Activities?

Yes, you can extend your holiday and do any other activities, If you are in Kathmandu after you have finished your trek and have some time left or before the trek, then here are a few short trips, we certainly recommend you

• Kathmandu Sightseeing City Tour
• Day Hike Nagarjun Hill in Kathmandu
• Trishuli River Rafting Day Tour
• Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking 2 night 3 days
• Jeep Safari in Kathmandu
• Mountain bike tour in Kathmandu
• Shivapuri National Park Hike Day trip
• Chitwan jungle safari 2 nights 3 days
• Tibet tour and Bhutan tour and many more

What Is The Best Season for 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The 14-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek is best done in March-May and September-October. It is possible to trek all year round, but better weather can be more confidently counted on during these peak seasons. Few people are seen during the off-season when the trek operates less; meanwhile, during the peak season, more treks are occurring, along with larger crowds. However, mountain weather might change at any time.

Spring [March to May]

Spring season which is from March to May is said to be one of the best seasons when it comes to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This is the best time for trekking because the weather is relatively warm and dry with little fluctuations of temperatures. At the lower altitude the temperature is about 10 to 15 degree celsius during the day while at higher altitude it can drop to -5 degree celsius at night necessitating the wearing of layers of clothes.

Advantages of Booking Annapurna Base Camp in Spring

Longer Days and Clear Weather

The days are longer and the weather is clear which provides a beautiful view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himal. The visibility is very good and offers broad views of the valleys which stretch for as far as the eyes can see, giving trekkers the opportunity to appreciate the size of the Himalayas.

Vibrant Nature and Blooming Flowers

The other advantage of trekking in spring is that the nature is more alive and colorful along the trekking trail. The hills are covered with Rhododendron trees which are in full bloom and this gives the area a bright red, pink and white look. This season also signifies the end of winter and therefore the mountains are fully capped with snow making them stand out from the background thus creating the best backdrop for photographers. The trails are aromatic with flowers in bloom and the whole area looks vibrant and alive, and every single step taken on the trek is quite special.

Autumn [September to October]

Autumn, which is from September to November is another ideal time to go Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The climate is normally dry and fine with occasional rainfall during the day and temperatures are between 10°C and 20°C which is good for trekking. It gets cold at night especially in the higher regions with temperatures as low as -5 degrees Celsius therefore appropriate clothes should be worn.

Reason For Choosing of Annapurna Base Camp in Autumn

Clear and Awe-Striking Mountain Views

Most of the time the skies are relatively clear allowing for clear and awe-striking views of the mountains enshrouded by snow. Autumn is the best since the monsoon rains wash the dust and provide a clear view of the mountains due to clear air.

Cultural Immersion

Apart from the natural beauty, Nepal is also famous for numerous festivals that are celebrated in the autumn season which puts cultural aspects into the trekking. This is the time when the two biggest festivals Dashain and Tihar are celebrated in Nepal, and travelers may come across with celebrations in the villages on the way. Such festivals give a feeling of pleasure and liveliness; people decorate their homes with lights, flowers, and offerings. It is also very nice to trek in the Annapurna region in autumn as it is culturally and naturally very diverse, and you are able to take part in the culture and traditions of the country.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty level

The 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek is categorized into moderate level treks and hence can be undertaken by anyone in reasonably good health and a bit of prior trekking experience. The trail is well facilitated and covers a variety of terrains such as; forests, farmlands, and steep slopes. The daily hiking hours may vary from 5 to 7 hours, although the gradient of the trails is gradual so that your body acclimatizes to the altitude. However, it has to be mentioned that the trek still involved several steep sections and long climbs especially when one is in the higher altitude around the Annapurna Base Camp.

However, the trek has moderate rating and the same requires physical and mental strength to undertake. This is compounded by the fact that the weather may change during the day and may include rain, cold or wind. Also, altitude may be an issue that may manifest different symptoms in climbers depending on the altitude reached by the climbers. Correct conditioning, taking water, and a steady pace are a must in order to come out a winner. Physically, one has to ensure they do not compromise on their diets and the general health as this will enable them to appreciate the beauty of the journey and complete the trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

Free Airport Pickup and Drop

The 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from the day you step on your feet in the beautiful nation of Nepal. We want to make your experience with us as good as it can be right from the word go, and as such, we offer a free airport transfer both to and from the airport. There is no reason to worry about the various aspects of airports, as we have everything taken care of for you.

A representative from Happyland Treks with a placard with your name in his hands will be waiting for you at the airport. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted and picked up immediately. When you reach Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative, who will make you feel Nepali hospitality as soon as possible. Let us arrange your transfer to your hotel to ensure that you are free to dive head into the local culture right from the word go without having to source for a car.

It is at the end of this great journey, and when you are probably admiring the surrounding sceneries of the Annapurna Base Camp trek, the last thing that you should bother yourself with is how to get back to the airport. Our drop-off service guarantees that you can enjoy those last few moments of your trip safely, knowing that you have a ride.

How is the Trail of Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek covers high and low trails through forests, paddy fields, local villages, and above the tree line. There are several suspension bridges made by local people. The trail consists of uphill and downhill but has a steeper ascent up to Annapurna Base Camp, while the return route has more descent than ascent. Every day, you will have the experience of walking uphill and downhill, but every new day, you will experience a different route.

The trail passes through Village after Village, terraced farm fields crossing through green hills, Beautiful waterfalls passing through deep gorges & lush rhododendron forests. The last road of trekking from Ghandruk to Nayapul is mixed with gravel and some pitch roads too, where walking takes 3 hours, so if you don’t want to walk, you can take local transportation and reach Nayapul.

Throughout the trek, you get to interact with the local Buddhist communities, and hence, it adds a cultural element to your walk. The trails are physically demanding, but you feel rewarded at every step as the region offers pristine scenic beauty and a culturally vibrant experience.

What is the difference between solo Trek, Private Trek, Or Group Trek?

Solo Trek

The solo trek is the ultimate freedom and flexibility. Trekkers will trek with the company of a guide and porter, thus allowing for a very personalized experience: one can set one's own pace, customize one's Itinerary, and be able to fully immerse oneself in the adventure. You've got the undivided attention of the guide and porter to take care of all details competently and free yourself up to focus on your trek. Trek durations are flexible and can always be extended from 12 days of trekking to 14 days or longer if needed. A solo trek best fits people who enjoy being alone, having time for self-introspection, and wishing to do the trek independently.

Private Trek

Private treks are a nice blend of individuality and bond. You could get your own friends, folks or colleagues along with yourself on a trek. Not only would you have the flexibility to travel on a date that suits you best, but there is also no limitation on a number of members. The duration of the trip can be adjusted to fit your requirements as well. Here, it's just you and your company being with yourself while we manage everything for you.

Group Trek

Group treks, on the other hand, comprise around 2-10 people worldwide. You will be part of a group departing and sticking to an itinerary on a certain date. Everyone has to adhere to some do's and don'ts so that everybody in the group is having a good time. It's a fun way to meet new people, share experiences with them, and maybe make some friends for a lifetime. It's not as customizable as a solo or private trek, but you get to know many interesting people and listen to their stories.

Family Trek

Enjoy a family hiking adventure with just your own family. Ideal for kids of all ages and anyone who wants to take things at their own pace. Worried someone in the family can't walk or will be too slow? Our guides will always be on hand to help you out. You design your own adventure and decide where you want to go and how fast you want to walk. Take as many breaks as you like, walking at your speed is our priority.

What is the highest altitude of the Trek?

The highest altitude reached on the trek is 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp (A.B.C.) on Day 8. The A.B.C. The high mountain scenery is breathtaking and provides panoramic views of the Annapurna mountains. Getting to A.B.C. involves trekking through lush, dense green vegetation, rice paddies, terraced fields and beautiful villages before entering the snow line with fabulous forests of rhododendrons whose deep red bloom will amaze you. From Day 7, when you start from Chhomrong, you begin to ascend into this AbC area when visiting the Himalayan region. After reaching A.B.C. On Day 8, the descent begins with each passing day, returning you closer to lower altitudes as we retrace our steps past Bamboo and other small communities.

Is it safe for solo or female travelers?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is safe for solo and female travelers. Many people have made this trek with no problem. We can’t predict everything, but we at Happyland Treks do our best to ensure your safety and satisfaction. It is highly recommended that you hire a local guide and travel agency that will greatly improve your safety and experience. We have years of experience guiding solo travelers (including female travelers) all around Annapurna as well as in the Everest region, Langtang region, and other parts of Nepal. By choosing a local agency, you profit from their intimate knowledge of the area, for special arrangements if required, and experience handling things if something goes wrong. Solo trekking can be done here, but at least having a guide provides an extra level of security plus comfort that allows you to enjoy the natural environment of the Annapurna immensely.

Drinking Water

Drinking water is easily available on the Annapurna trek. You can buy boiled or filtered water from teahouses and guesthouses en route. You can also fill up water from taps, but purifying the water using either SteriPEN or water purification tablets is important. You can buy purification tablets from marts, pharmacies, or drug stores in Kathmandu Pokhara and SteriPEN from your home country.

Plastic mineral water bottles are banned beyond Chhomrong. But you can carry plastic bottles up until Ghorepani. Beyond Chhomrong, you cannot find packed plastic bottles of mineral water, so do plan accordingly and carry a refillable bottle and iodine drops / Chlorine tablets.

How to Use The SteriPEN?

Step 1: Fill the bottle with water.

Step 2: Turn the SteriPEN on and put the UV light in your bottle.

Step 3: Stir it around until the SteriPEN tells you the water is purified, about 48 to 90 seconds.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Accommodation

Accommodations throughout the trek in Annapurna Himalaya are simple. It will be a twin or triple sharing room; in some, it can even be a dormitory with up to four beds. The very nature of the teahouses or guesthouses is just to provide shelter and a place to rest. There will be simple bedding available, with shared bathroom and shower facilities outside your room. Hot showers are available at an extra cost.

Lodging is basic but clean, and it offers any trekker a warm roof at the end of a long day. You are advised to carry your sleeping bag, which adds warmth and comfort. Reservations via trekking agencies and guides get one assured of a place to sleep, as the tea houses tend to fill up rather fast during peak trekking seasons.

Food during the Annapurna Base Camp trekking

Food in the Annapurna Base Camp trek is simple but varied. Every teahouse has its menu, and you can order all sorts of dishes, local and continental. However, we recommend trying the local dish Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepal dish. Dal Bhat consists of lentil soup (dal), Bhat (rice), vegetables, and sometimes pickles / curried meat. It’s wholesome and gives you the fuel to keep hiking along during the trek.

While all the food you eat is hygienic and healthy, it may not taste exactly like what you eat in cities like Pokhara/ Kathmandu or your home country. But teahouses provide tasty and hygienic food for everyone to have their fill for breakfast, Lunch and dinner.

Mountain Sickness on Annapurna Base Camp Trek

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or Mountain sickness can be a real problem for trekkers, especially during the 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek. More specifically, it tends to develop if one has to rise too steeply, for example, to heights of over 2500 meters, where the oxygen concentration is considerably lower.

While undertaking the ABC trek, chances of AMS are seen when you gain altitude and even more so after Chhomrong (2,170m), MBC (3,700m) and especially at ABC (4,130m). Some of the signs of AMS include Headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath and sleeplessness. It can also progress to High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), which are deadly conditions.

How to Prevent AMS?

To avoid altitude sickness, the ascend must be taken gradually to allow the body to adapt to the new environment. There are general rules to follow; for instance, one shouldn't climb more than 300-500 meters above 3,000 meters in any one day. Taking a lot of water, avoiding alcohol and taking foods that are light and rich in carbohydrates are also recommended.

Training requirement for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Although formal training is not required to complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, some pre-trek preparation will help you enjoy the trek all the more. Start light exercises a couple of weeks before your trek to begin building your stamina and endurance. Walking on an incline regularly or going for hikes or brisk walks in a nearby park/neighborhood for a week prior to your trip would also be beneficial. There’s no need for heavy weight lifting or training, but if you have had prior experiences with treks, that would work in your favor. However, even without any sort of exercise, you can expect to complete the trek as people of various age groups and fitness levels undertake this journey every year.

Typical day on The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The journey begins with 1.5 hours of driving from Pokhara to Nayapul. On a typical day of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek We wake up early and meet for breakfast in the teahouse dining room around 7 am. Following breakfast, we prepare those items carried in by the porters in our duffel bags and ready our day packs, stocking them with water, sunscreen, snacks and other essentials. We set out around 7:45 am and started trekking with our guide on a route he detailed to us the night before. Normally, the hike would take 5-7 hours, depending on which teahouse we have lunch. After arriving at our accommodations, there is a menu that we go through and order dinner items. During or after dinner at approximately 7 pm, our guide will go over the following day's route and any of the day's highlights.

Comprehensive Packing List for 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Here's a comprehensive packing list to guide you:

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking t-shirts
• Thermal tops and bottoms
• Fleece jacket or down jacket
• Insulated pants (1 pair, optional but recommended for cold nights)
• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Waterproof trekking pants
• Lightweight trekking pants
• Warm hat/beanie
• Sun hat or cap
• Warm, insulated gloves
• Lightweight, waterproof gloves (optional)
• Sturdy trekking boots (well broken-in)
• Camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)
• Warm socks
• Moisture-wicking underwear (4-5 pairs)

Gear and Equipment:

• 40-50L backpack with rain cover
• Daypack (optional, 20-30L for side trips)
• Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C to -15°C)
• Sleeping bag liner (optional for added warmth)
• Adjustable trekking poles (highly recommended)
• Reusable water bottles
• Water purification tablets or filter
• Hydration bladder (optional)

Personal Items

• Biodegradable soap and shampoo
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Quick-dry towel
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer

First Aid Kit:

• Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic, blister care)
• Personal medications (include Diamox for altitude sickness)
• Pain relief (ibuprofen or paracetamol)

Miscellaneous:

• Trekking map/guidebook
• Multi-tool or knife
• High-energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, dried fruit)
• Passport (and copies)
• Visa (if applicable)
• Permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS card)
• Cash (Nepalese Rupees, in small denominations)

Things To Know During the 14 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Toilet and shower in the mountain lodge

The tea houses or mountain lodges include both western and squat toilets, but the western toilets are mostly available. For convenience, it is recommended to take a hot shower because cold showers can be very uncomfortable, especially in the mountains. Hot water is either by using a gas geyser or hot water bucket system, but please be informed that the hot water service is charged per person, depending on the house and starts from $3-$5 per head. For personal items, you are encouraged to pack shower essentials like shampoo, soap and toilet paper. Carrying your supplies is much more comfortable, and it is usually much more hygienic as well.

Mobile, camera battery charge and WIFI on the trek

You cannot charge your devices in your room or the teahouse as there are no sockets or multi plugs. You will have to go down to the communal areas of the teahouse, such as its hall, where there is a charging station. Charging has an extra cost, and it costs around $3 to $5 per device per time you charge, be it a phone, camera or anything.

WiFi is available in most tea houses; however, as you can understand, being in a remote mountain region, WiFi cannot be compared to the one at your home. Costs for WiFi are usually $3-$5 and not promised to have a stable or good internet connection. We recommend buying a local SIM card at KTM before your trek since it has better connectivity, and you can use it as a backup in case you have an emergency.

Money Exchange

Currency exchange in Kathmandu is easy and convenient. You will be able to exchange your money at the hotel or at the several currency exchange shops that you can find in the vibrant Thamel district. There are also banks in the city where you can make the exchange. The district of Thamel alone has more than 1,000 ATMs, so getting some local money won't be a problem. Your trekking company will also gladly offer assistance with currency exchange as required. The lakeside city of Pokhara also has plenty of opportunities for currency exchange, whether it is through accommodations or banks throughout town. However, note that there are no places along most routes in the mountains that allow for foreign currency exchange services, so come well-prepared beforehand.

Travel and Trekking Insurance in the High-Altitude

High-altitude trekking in Nepal, such as Annapurna Base Camp, requires travel and trekking insurance. This is highly recommended and, in other ways, quite essential in emergencies such as altitude sickness, injuries, or any other accidents that may require helicopter evacuation. Costs of evacuation and medical issues are very high and difficult to meet without any coverage. Other risk factors include medical expenses and luggage safety. Don't forget to buy it, because it would be an assurance for your peace of mind and financial protection during your trek. Find out more in our article for detailed advice on choosing the right travel insurance for your trek.

Weather in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The weather in the Annapurna region can be highly changeable, but each season and month of the year has its own special charm. The most favorable seasons for trekking the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are spring (from March to May) and autumn (from September to November), while the monsoon season isn’t normally recommended as there is heavy rain. A monthly breakdown of weather trends when trekking from Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) looks as follows:

January:

There are cold temperatures with snowfall in January at ABC, significantly at higher altitudes. During the day, temperatures can be as cold as -10°C and as warm as 5°. Although the sky remains clear, trails are icy; the sky remains clear, so trekking can sometimes be hard.

February:

The weather is just like January but slightly milder. The trail keeps carrying snow & ice as it nears the base camp.

March:

Towards late March, spring shows its face as temperatures begin to rise. For most parts of the day, it will range from about -5°C up to 15°C (23°F to 59°F). It is when flowers blossom at lower altitudes, which is ideal for trekking.

April:

It is one of the best months for trekking: mild weather and clear skies. Temperatures range from 0°C to 20°C (32°F to 68°F).

May:

The last month before the monsoon. Warm days (5-25 °C, 41-77 °F), increasing humidity, but may have occasional showers.

June:

Monsoon season begins. Heavy rain makes trails slippery and difficult. Temperature remains warm, between 10°C-25°C (50°F to 77°F), but visibility is poor because of the rain and clouds.

July:

The monsoon season is at its peak. Trekking is not recommended at this time of the month as there will be heavy rain and chances of landslides on the trail.

August:

This is similar to July, with high rainfall. Trails are waterlogged, and landslides are common. Best avoided for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp.

September:

The monsoon begins to recede, and the weather clears. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This starts the autumn trekking season with improving trail conditions.

October:

October is one of the most popular months for trekking. Clear skies, mild temperatures (5°C to 20°C / 41°F to 68°F), and excellent visibility of the Annapurna range make it ideal for trekking.

November:

The weather is similar to October, but with cooler temperatures as winter is coming. Daytime season averages between 0°C (32°F) and 15°C (59°F). Clear sky and less crowded hiking trails.

December

Temperatures drop, especially at higher elevations. Snow begins to transform the landscape and trails, and cold can be biting. Daytime temperatures range from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F).

Nepal Tourist Visa Information

When visiting Nepal, please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months upon arrival. You will also need pages vacant in your passport for visa stamps and a passport-size photo to submit with your visa application. Please make sure you qualify on these before starting any journeys. If you don’t comply with this regulation, you might get denied at the point of entry or have issues with the immigration office of Nepal. Visa regulations can vary quickly, so always check either official sources or Embassy details on their websites. All visitors to Nepal for tourism purposes must obtain a tourist visa except for a few countries which get an on-arrival visa. Here are the key points:

Types of Tourist Visas:

These include tourist visas, which are issued for different periods, including 15 days, 30 days and 90 days, respectively.

Application Process:

Visa on arrival can be procured at the airport in Kathmandu – Tribhuvan International Airport or at the land border checkpoints. The documents that the applicants will require include a valid passport, which must have at least 6 months’ validity upon entry into the host country and a completed and signed visa application form.

Visa Fees:

The fee charged for the visa depends on the period that the foreigner intends to spend in the country. For the visa fee, it is wise to carry the exact amount in USD.

Visa Extension:

if the travelers choose to stay in the country longer than the visa granted, they are allowed to do so at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or some other places in the country.

More Details:

For further information on Nepal tourist visas, including current fees, entry points, and visa regulations, you can refer to the [Nepal Immigration Department's official website.

Tipping - Tips to the Guide and Porter

should tip your Guide and Porter after completing your trek. There is no fixed amount for tipping; whatever you want to provide in the tip depends on your hand. Tipping is the gratitude for those who worked hard during your journey as a guide and porter. Tipping is always encouraged and has become part of the tradition for the trekking services. Guides and porters are responsible for your safety, comfort and your experience throughout the trekking exercise. They move around the difficult terrains, transport goods, and services and have extensive information of the area.

Tipping is a practice that has been embraced in Nepal where trekkers reward their hard working guides and porters. A well-tipped guide or a porter not only gets the feeling that they are appreciated, but also have the morale to continue giving out the best services to other trekking enthusiasts.

Trekking Feedback

After finishing the trek, Happyland Trek Company will organize a farewell dinner in Kathmandu. This would also be our last chance to share your travel experience and feedback on the trip. We will discuss your trekking experiences, which places were good, and if they faced any problems and difficulties during their treks. Feedback and reviews are crucial for improvement. No one can tell it better than you, who have traveled with us. Also, your online platform reviews (on TripAdvisor/Google Reviews) are very helpful for other travelers when choosing an operator and could help us continually improve our services.