The world-class hiking paths in Nepal include the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is a substantial glacial basin that is situated to the north of Pokhara. Because of the unusual combination of depths and heights, the Annapurna Base Camp hike offers an extraordinarily diverse ecology. The Annapurna Himalayan ranges and other peaks above the 7000-meter level are among the snow giants that surround it. In the summer, it barely receives 7 hours of sunshine per day.
A dense tropical forest of bamboo and Rhododendron covered the south-facing slopes and the north-facing slopes are covered by rain shadow. The sanctuary is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists as it is believed to be the abode of their deities. Annapurna sanctuary was not opened for foreigners until 1956. It is also called an Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. It is the most beautiful trek exploring the diverse ethnic groups and their cultures such as Gurung, Magar, Thakali and glimpse of flora and fauna. The trek offers spectacular mountain views including Machhapuchhere (6,993 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Himchuli (7,246m) while on the trail.
Normally, the trek begins from Nayapul and a strenuous walk via Chhomrung, Bamboo and Deurali leads us to the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).
How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Annapurna base camp trek is not as difficult as the other higher elevation treks in Nepal. Hence, anyone who is willing to put in the necessary planning and training may complete this expedition.
The walk to Annapurna Base Camp winds across some of the tallest mountains in the world. You get a world-class mountain viewing hike while traveling through the renowned Annapurna Sanctuary at a comparatively lower altitude.
Your journey to Annapurna Base Camp will be spent primarily below 4,200 meters. The terrain is difficult, though, with countless numbers of stairs. However, in order to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan Adventure, you will need to complete the necessary training prior to this trek.
What are the risk factors of ABC Trek?
One of the safest hikes in Nepal is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. However, a few natural elements may impact on your adventure journey. The primary risks of this hike are landslides and avalanches. During this journey, you must be careful from Hinku Cave to Machhapuchhere Base Camp since there is a possibility of avalanches and stone falls along this path.
How long is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna base camp hike typically takes 10 to 12 days to complete. However, there are also other shorter routes that can be accomplished in 6-7 days. Therefore, it depends on the path you choose to begin your trek. This trip has the number of beginning and ending locations. It takes more days to finish if you wish to start at Nayapul and trek via Ghandruk, Ghorepani to the Base Camp and concludes at Jhinu Danda.
What kind of accommodations and meals do I expect on this trek?
Don’t expect luxurious accommodations like in the city areas. It is a Himalayan classic tea house trek. So, you will get cozy twin-sharing bed accommodations at local lodges during the trek. Most of the lodges do not have an attached toilet. So, you have to share toilets with other people. And you have to pay extra for the hot shower, battery charging and use of internet.
Comparable to other treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a similar menu. Dal bhat, a meal of rice, lentils, and curry, is the primary local food. Every morning, you may choose from tea, coffee, porridge, boiled eggs, or an omelet for breakfast. For lunch or dinner, you may choose dal bhat, fries, spaghetti, pizza, or fried rice.
Gurung Bread, a deep-fried bread, and Rosti, a full potato dish fried in a pan like a patty, are two unusual meals to eat on this walk. If you're really hungry, get this with two eggs on top. The price of the meals and accommodations may rise as the altitude increases.
Best Time to Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
The best season for this trek is from March to June and beginning of September to the last of November. But, must be cautious and beware from avalanches during monsoon season. The trek leads you to terrain of glaciers. Monsoon season is not recommendable to do this trek.
Standard itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara (850m) – 7 hrs drive
Day 03: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk (1,990m) – 5 hrs trek
Day 04: Trek to Chhomrong (2210m) – 5 hrs trek
Day 05: Trek to Bamboo (2350m) – 5 hrs trek
Day 06: Trek to Deaurali (3140m) – 5 hrs trek
Day 07: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)
Day 08: Trek back to Bamboo (2350m) – 6 hrs trek
Day 09: Trek to Jhinu Danda (hot springs) (1780m) – 5 hrs trek
Day 10: Trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara – 6 hrs trek
Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu
Day 12: Departure from Nepal
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