Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty
Any healthy and fit individual can do Annapurna Base Camp Trek without any previous trekking experience. Annapurna Base Camp Trek route follows forested trails that ascend through remote settlement areas and steep sections. There are many ups and downs throughout the trek. That's why the trekkers have to be able to keep their stamina. You will be walking 5 to 6 hours a day.
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is considered a moderate trek in the Himalayas. Therefore, it is recommended for beginner trekkers. Apart from terrain, other factors that make Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days tough are the remoteness of the region and altitude. Flaws like unstable network connection, unavailability of hospitals, limited food menu, and scarce of other modern comforts add to the difficulty level for some travelers.
Even though Annapurna Base Camp Trek is quite a doable trek, you have to be determined to complete it. Prepare your body and mind before joining the trek. Go on short hikes if possible. Get used to walking long hours carrying a day pack with essentials. You can also work on strengthening your muscles and core body strength in the gym.
Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness
One thing trekkers have to pay more attention to during the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is altitude sickness. Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you above 4000 meters, and it can trigger altitude sickness for some trekkers. As you will be traversing at a high altitude and see a change in attitude every day, your body must adjust to the elevation.
People also refer to altitude sickness as acute mountain sickness (AMS). It's a common illness traveler face during high-altitude journeys. You don't have to worry about it during the trek. A little awareness will help you complete the trek without any issues.
We have maintained a constant pace in elevation during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days, which keeps trekkers away from altitude sickness.
Symptoms of altitude sickness
- difficulty in breathing
- nausea and vomiting
- headache
- dizziness
- loss of appetite and insomnia
Don't take symptoms of altitude sickness lightly. If the symptoms progress, then it can be fatal. You may have to get air evacuated to the nearby hospital for critical treatment.
You will be accompanied by our experienced trekking guide, during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. He will assist you during any emergency.
We want you to be assured that our guides are certified to offer first-aid and other assistance during any emergency. Plus, they also have extensive experience in tackling adverse circumstances in the Himalayas.
Preventive measures of altitude sickness
Regardless of your trek experience and fitness, you might have suffered from altitude sickness. So, be careful and keep yourself hydrated during the trek.
Eat a balanced diet, and try to incorporate as many nutritious options and fluids as you can in the meals.
Do not consume alcoholic drinks or smoke as it may dehydrate your body.
In case you see symptoms of AMS, then inform your guide and take the proper measures. Listen to his advice, and do not push yourself.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Solo/Private/Group
If you want to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek solo, then you can opt for our private trek option. It allows you to custom create the itinerary and departure date as per your requirements. You will be guided by a private trekking guide and porter during the trek.
To book a private Annapurna Base Camp Trek, contact us anytime.
Likewise, if you are a solo traveler, you can join our departure date and trek with other trekkers from all around the world. We have small groups, and as per the members, we offer an assistant guide too.
If you are trekking with your friends and family, you can also do a private group trekking with your loved ones.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Best Time
If you want to enjoy the best trekking season in the Himalayas, then trek in spring or autumn. The pleasant climate, stable weather, and fantastic views made spring and autumn the best season for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Likewise, trekking in winter (December to February) and monsoon/summer (May to September) may bring many obstacles during the trek. These are the off-seasons, so people avoid trekking at this time of the year.
Spring (March to April) and Autumn (October to November)
Everything is just on point in spring and autumn in the Himalayas, which makes treks smooth and excellent. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 0°C. The night and morning are comparatively cold, so you will need a few warm pieces too. Likewise, the mild climate and beautiful flowers along the route enhance the journey.
Trekkers from all around the world hit the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route. The days are long and bright, with clear views of the mountains.
Winter (November to February)
Winter trek is possible with precautions and preparations. You can trek in the early days of the winter. However, there will be a chance of extreme snowfall, route blockage, and avalanches. You have to be extra packed and cared for on the trek.
The temperature drops below -10°C and unstable weather can add up to the challenge of winter trekking. Besides all the adversity, we have heard time and again from our travelers that the winter landscapes during the Annapurna Base Camp trekking are out of this world.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek permit
Trekkers need to get two permits from the government of Nepal to go on Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days. The permits are Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card. The permit cost is included in our Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost, and we will arrange all the permits for you in advance.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for SAARC nationals: Nrs 200 per person
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit cost for foreigners: Nrs 3,000 per person
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for children below age 10: Free
TIMS Card cost for SAARC nationals: Nrs 600 per person
TIMS Card cost for trekkers going with local agency: Nrs 1000 per person
TIMS Card cost for independent trekkers: Nrs 2000 per person
Accommodation of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
You will either spend the night in a teahouse or lodge during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for 12 Days. Thankfully, the Annapurna region is one of the most developed trekking regions in Nepal. The trekking route has a range of accommodations.
We will book you the most comfortable and clean space to spend the night. The rooms will be small with or without a private washroom. The services in the teahouse/lodge are the bare minimum, so do not expect treatments like in the city.
We usually book twin shared rooms, therefore if you need a single room, let us know while booking the trip. We highly suggest you carry a warm sleeping bag because the teahouse's blanket will not be enough to spend cold nights.
*Note: In case of early arrival or departure, all additional costs have to be managed by the traveler.
Food during the trek
You will find delicious dishes to dig in during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek package includes three meals a day. The meals are offered, as per the menu of the teahouse/lodge. As you will be trekking in a less developed area, the options will be limited and expensive.
You can see things like porridge, oatmeal, muesli, toast, eggs, soup, sandwiches, tea, coffee, etc for breakfast. While for lunch & dinner, there are heavy dishes available like dal bhat tarkari, fried veggies, curries (non-veg/veg), chapati, momo, pizza, burger, pasta, Tibetan Bread, noodles, thenduk, thukpa, etc.
You might have noticed mostly Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, and a few Continental cuisines are available on the menu. Likewise, you can refill your water bottles in every teahouse along the route.
Trek Responsibly
The more trips we lead in the Himalayas, the more aware we have been, of the importance of eco-friendly ventures. We are proud to say all of our adventures activities are designed, keeping the safety of the environment in mind. While trekking with us, you will not harm nature in any way. We will make sure of that.
We are strict with our practices when it comes to sustainable travel. And we urge our guests to follow our guidelines during the trek. From collecting the waste and throwing it in the proper place to carrying reusable water bottles and buying local Nepali products, we do a range of things to make our guests responsible travelers.
Travel Insurance
We advise trekkers to have travel insurance during Annapurna Base Camp Trekking. Because it is a high elevation journey in a less developed region, sometimes medical emergencies may arise even with our best efforts. And the best shot you got in a situation like that is air evacuation to a nearby hospital.
Trust us, if you do not have travel insurance, then getting immediate medical assistance can get tricky. You have to pay the heli charges upfront, and the medical bills may look ugly. Therefore, having travel insurance is always a good idea.
Your travel insurance should cover helicopter evacuation (up to 6000 meters) and hospital bills. Some trekkers also get insurance for their valuables and flight cancellation.
*Note: Stay away from scams and double-check all the conditions in the travel insurance.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Safety
Traveling to a new country can be overwhelming, especially when you are exploring remote areas. We understand the doubts and the fears you may get. Therefore, we make sure at Scenic Nepal Treks to make you feel at home. We will not only be your trekking partners but your friends too.
Business is the second thing for us. Creating genuine memories, lifelong friends, and offering top-notch service is what we thrive for. And during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days, we will make sure you are safe and secure in the mountains.
Our professional and experienced crew will guide you through every step and help you get close to the locals. With us, you don't have to worry about anything. Just focus on enjoying the trip. We will take care of everything else.
Last Minute Booking for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
We only take last-minute Annapurna Base Camp Trek bookings if we are confident of arranging all the accommodations, permits, etc, on time. At the same time, we also hope the traveler who books the trip at the last minute is aware of the challenges trekking in the Himalayas poses and is confident enough to complete the trek.
Before we confirm the booking, you have to deposit 100% of the package cost within 24 hours of notice. After the deposit, we will begin arranging things for you, and you have to be available in Kathmandu/Pokhara one day before the beginning of the trek.
Travel Tips (electricity, internet, ATM, luggage, tipping, personal expenses)
- Charging electronic devices may cost you a few extra bucks during the trek. The lodges usually have charging booths, where you are allowed to charge the devices. Some places may ask for extra money for the service. The solar charger and extra batteries are a good alternative.
- Cellular data and WiFi both get unstable and unreliable as the elevation increases, so choose your option wisely.
- You will not find an ATM on the trekking route to withdraw cash, so get it in the city. You'll need money to buy extra beverages, snacks, hot showers, etc.
- A duffel bag will be your main luggage during the trek. It is carried by a porter and shouldn't exceed 10kgs.
- Feel free to tip the crew members as per your wish and satisfaction. Every group member can tip USD 5 to the tour guide, USD 2 to drive, and USD 100 to the porter/guide.
Equipment & Packing List
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Also, understand that the items listed below will vary a little according to the season and the trek duration. The weight limit for your luggage is 15 kg.
Important documents and items
- Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
- Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
- Dollars, pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and purchasing your own drinks and gifts
- Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc.
Head
- Bandana or headscarf, also useful for dusty conditions
- Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
- Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Prescription sunglasses (if required)
Upper Body
- Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops
- Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
- Down vest and/or jacket *
- Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
Hands
- 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
- 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
- 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)
Lower Body
- Non-cotton underwear briefs
- 1 pair of Hiking shorts
- 1 pair of Hiking trousers
- 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
- 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers
- 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric
Feet
- 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
- 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
- 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, “broken-in”)
- 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
- Cotton socks (optional)
- Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version
Sleeping
- 1 sleeping bag (Scenic Nepal Treks will provide you)
- Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
- Rucksack and Travel Bags
- 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
- 1 large duffel bag ( Scenic Nepal Treks will Provide you)
Medical
- Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
- Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
- 1 skin-blister repair kit
- Anti-diarrhea pills
- Anti-headache pills
- Cough and/or cold medicine
- Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
- Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are a respiratory depressant.
- Water purification tablets or the water filter
- 1 set of earplugs
- Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
Toiletries
- 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
- Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
- Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
- Deodorants
- Nail clippers
- Face and body moisturizer
- Female hygiene products
- Small mirror
- Personal Hygiene
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Tissue /toilet roll
- Anti-bacterial handwash