Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Best Season for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The best time to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends upon the kind of experience that you’re looking for. But undoubtedly, the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is in Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (September, October and November). 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April, March & May (Spring):  During spring, the trail is enhanced by the blooming rhododendrons, pleasant weather and open clear view of mountains. The temperature is moderate making trekking comfortable. This time is also ideal for photographers and nature lovers.  

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December, January and February (Winter): If you wish to avoid crowds and enjoy some alone time with nature then taking this trip during December, January or February could also be an option. The snow-covered trails of Annapurna Base Camp Trek from December to February create a magical wonderland for any travel seekers. However, the temperature during this time could be harsh for most trekkers due to extreme cold, snowfall and closed teahouses in the upper region. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September, October and November (Autumn): In autumn, the skies are clear, offering breathtaking mountain views and stable trekking conditions. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in June, July and August (Summer/ Monsoon): Trekking in the Summer or Monsoon seasons will be affected by rain, unclear weather, and closed view and you can get attacked by the leeches too.

Why choose Annapurna Base Camp Trekking in Nepal?

The ABC, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking adventures offering majestic, breathtaking Mountain views, diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. This customizable 12-day trek takes you to the base of the world’s 10th tallest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8,091 m). The trek will take you through the lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and traditional Gurung Villages in the Western Region of Nepal. 

Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will require two permits: -

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): - This permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, one of the protected regions of Nepal. The funds collected from the permit helps to support conservation efforts and the local communities of the region.

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card: - The TIMS card is essential for tracking trekkers for their safety. It helps authorities monitor trekking activities and provide necessary assistance in case of emergencies. 

Services/ Facilities during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Accommodation Facilities

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from the sub-tropical region of Nepal i.e. Pokhara and ascents to the Alpine Region of Nepal i.e. Annapurna Base Camp. In a well-populated/ developed city like Pokhara, you will be staying at a standard hotel providing many amenities. But during the trek, you will be staying at the Tea House/Lodge with the twin bed. Some places have attached bathrooms, whereas you need to use shared bathrooms in some places. The accommodation style and facilities are pretty similar during the trek.

Meals

For meals, we provide three meals per day (i.e. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner per day) from the selected menu as available in the lodge and tea house. Food during the trek is not so well decorated as in Kathmandu and Pokhara however; most of the food is prepared by the local people in their fields. We highly recommend you try Dal Bhat during the trek. The food is organic, delicious, and quite healthy. 

Drinking water

Safe drinking water is available for purchase at teahouses, but the cost increases as you go higher. Carrying a water purification system, like tablets or a filter, can save money and reduce plastic waste.

Amenities

As you ascend to higher altitude, the amenities are pretty limited. You will be provided with basic accommodation, meals and facilities like one blanket, and pillow. But other than that, you might be required to pay for an extra blanket, use Wi-Fi, and hot water facilities, charge your phones, batteries and many more.

What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty level? Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty is of moderate level. This trek is suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness. The elevation gain is around 2000 m to 3000 m gain. You’ll be trekking for 5 to 7 hours daily and the maximum altitude is at Annapurna Base Camp with an altitude of 4,130 m. So, prior trekking experience is not necessary, but it is recommended to have physical training and exercise.  

Fitness/ Training required for Annapurna Base Camp

This trek is of moderate difficulty, and suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level. The total trek of 12 days, but can be modified according to your schedule by consulting with our trekking expert. Since the trek is not that difficult, regular cardio workouts, strength training, and practice hikes before the trek will enhance your endurance and make the journey more enjoyable. 

You need to have a positive mindset and adaptability for basic accommodations, unpredictable weather, and long trekking days. For the essentials, Proper trekking boots, layered clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag (provided by the company), trekking poles, Water purification tablets, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. 

Travel Insurance required during the Annapurna Base Camp Hike

On any kind of high-altitude trekking, we recommend that you for insurance. Insurance is necessary to avoid any kinds of risks and mishaps from occurring. As you will be ascending to a higher altitude, there might be very few medical facilities. So, it would be better to have insurance before trekking. Also, ensure that your policy covers emergency evacuations, including helicopter rescues, which are costly but crucial in case of emergencies.

Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost ranges from $900 to $1,500 per person, depending on the trekking package, Accommodation facilities, Meals, permits, modes of transportation, Guide and Porter services. On a standard itinerary, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek budget costs around $800 to $1000. If you customize the itinerary, the Annapurna base camp trek cost per person can range from higher to lower, depending on the above outlined factors as well. 

If you are planning to customize the itinerary, make sure to contact WalkMountain for the best price and suggestion under your budget and requirements by consulting with our panel of experts.