Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the most popular scenic and cultural trip to the base camp of world’s tenth highest mountain peak – Mount Annapurna.
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is the world famous hiking route that offers the close-up views of Mt. Annapurna along with other mountain peaks.
The trek goes through the terraced paddy fields, scenic remote villages, waterfalls, river and dense colorful rhododendron forests.
Every year thousands of trekkers visit this most popular trek route after Everest base camp.
Abc trek can be done all the time in a year but from September to November and from March to May are considered as best months.
Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the top 10 best treks in Nepal.
If you are planning for a trek in Nepal, consider ABC Trek in 2019 or in 2020. If you are looking for the best travel information, stay updated with us and visit our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Blog.
ABC trek is also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary trek and can be done from 7 days to 14 days.
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Alternative treks to Annapurna Base Camp
Why should I trek Annapurna Base Camp?
- Enjoy the spectacular views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Mt. Fishtail (Machapuchhre) and Hiunchuli.
- Enjoy natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda.
- Experience the natural and cultural beauty of Ghandruk.
- Trek to the heart of the Annapurna massif Himalayas.
When is the best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp?
Although Annapurna base camp trekking can be done all the time in a year but from September to November and from March to May are the best months.
The weather is dry and warm, clear mountain views and sky is clear. Blossoming of wild flowers like Rhododendrons will make your journey joyful and delighted.
Trekking in Nepal in Winter Season
January and February are peak months of winter season in Nepal. As this is the off-season time in Nepal, trekking is not highly recommended.
But, if you are keen to do Annapurna trekking, you can do it. But, follow some precautions and do research before departing.
Trekking in Nepal in January and February at lower altitudes doesn’t be so big issue with the temperatures and snowfall. But, while you go up (higher altitudes above 3000m), there might be a difficulty in trekking.
January and February are the driest months of winter season. There might be chances of less rainfall during winter month in Nepal. But, you may experience snowfall even for single days to many days. The days will be sunny and warmer while night could be chilly so get the right trekking cloths.
Few tea houses are still remaining open while others remain closed. Winter discounts and cheap accommodation, less crowd are the main aspects of the winter trekking in Nepal.
How much does Annapurna Base Camp trek cost?
The cost of ABC trek depends upon the mode of trekking you choose. Here are some factors for Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost.
Cost of Guide and Porter
On average, the cost of guide including his/her food, accommodation and insurance is about $25-30 per day. The porter will cost about $20-25 per day including the same and carry about 15 kg.
For your trip safety, we suggest you to hire a guide/porter.
Accommodation cost for ABC trekking
Most of the tea houses on Annapurna region provides bedding and food to the trekkers. The trekking accommodation costs USD 3 to 5 per night in Annapurna region. These teahouses may have share bed room, toilet facilities, charging on a cost and wifi at a minimum cost.
Food cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trekking
The basic food on the trail is Dal Bhat. The international cuisines like Indian, Italian and continental will be provided on request. You can choose your favourite meal from the food menu available at teahouses.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek permit cost
You need to acquire a TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit to enter Annapurna Base Camp. These documents can be available at Kathmandu and Pokhara. You can get it either from your agencies with a payment USD 10 per person or directly you can buy them from Nepal Tourism Board with a payment USD 20.
What is the standard itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp trek?
In general Annapurna Base Camp trekking can be done from 7 to 12 days from/to Pokhara. If you choose Kathmandu to Kathmandu, it may extend to 2 to 4 days more depending upon your trekking time and level of physical fitness.
How difficult is to trek Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna base camp is moderately difficult trek.
You can enjoy this trek even you are not an experienced trekker. But, at least you need to have a walking stamina up-to 6-7 hours a day ups and down on the remote village trail. Having basic fitness is enough to do this trek.
You will have lots of resting places on the trekking trail. You will find quite a difficult somewhere places where you need to walk for 3-4 hours continuously but be careful of altitude sickness.
Do I need Trekking permits and TIMS for Annapurna Base Camp?
For trekking to ABC, first thing you must require is TIMS and permit. You can get permits either from Kathmandu Nepal Tourism Board or Pokhara. You need to carry this permit throughout the trek and need to show upon in entry check points. TIMS can be obtained at the TAAN Secretariat at Maligaon Kathmandu and in Pokhara.
For obtaining permits, you need to have two passport size photographs and $20/person.