Everything you need to know about Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Standing 8091m above sea level, Mount Annapurna has caught the eyes of people from all over the world. Voted as the best long-distance trek in the world, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is now in season once again. Also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary trek, this is a classic trek to the base of the 10th highest peak in the world, Mt. Annapurna. If you are a trekker by soul, make sure you get this on your must-go list and in case if this is your first time trekking ever, mark it, it will be a once-in-a-lifetime memory, the best one.

Annapurna region contains a series of peaks: 13 of them above 8000m, 16 peaks above 7000m, and the 10th highest in the world Annapurna I. The entire region is secured by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project within the range of 7,639 square kilometers which happens to be the largest conservation area in Nepal. The Annapurna Conversation Area has been providing world-class trekking offers annually in Nepal. Annapurna I is known to be the most dangerous mountain in the world. Many mountaineers have lost their lives while attempting to conquer the summit. After the statistics published in 2007, the casualty ratio increased to 38%. Not any mountaineers dare take the challenge of conquering this majestic Mountain. Maurice Herzog is the first man to climb Mt. Annapurna in 1952 A.D. The Annapurna Conservation Area is a famous trekking region. One of the major trekking routes is the Annapurna Sanctuary route to Annapurna Base Camp. The best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are spring and autumn when the weather is clear and sunny. If you are interested in photography, this trek is definitely your next destination. It’s not the photo you capture, but that one moment you’d be proud of for life.   

Trekkers need to get a Trekking Permit issued by the Department of Immigration under the Nepal Government as there are certain areas that are restricted. These restricted areas are only open for group trekkers and are not issued to the individual trekker. The trek normally lasts 7-12 days depending upon the choice of route and level of your physical fitness. If you are a slow walker, your journey will be lengthier BUT not boring at all. Alongside the trail, you will see green balconies of paddy fields, deep rhododendron forests, and best of all, the Annapurna range all the way to your final stop at the base camp. Trekkers need not worry about their stay. For lodging, one can find furnished rooms with hot showers for less than $2, however because of the difficulty in transportation; the food here costs more than the cost of a room. While on the journey though, it is better you carry essential items like a torch, medicines, some food items, and a pair of warm clothes. The idea is to pack light but right. Before you set off, always make sure to gather information on the weather conditions of different trails you are heading to or if possible take a guide along with you. Here are some more tips for you to complete your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

• Regardless of the number of times you have trekked, the first thing you should remember is to know the territory well. Consult your travel agency if you want someone to guide you throughout the trek. Trekkers must carry maps all the time. You should know where to find shelter and help when necessary.

• Trekkers have options for selecting different routes to reach the base camp. Make decisions wisely by choosing the right trail.

• Annapurna base camp lies at an altitude of 4130 meters. It is a well-known fact that with the rise in altitude oxygen level tends to drop resulting in difficulty in breathing for a person. There are altitude clinics located on several trekking routes in Nepal now, make sure you visit them before you start your journey to the mountains. Trekkers should know how to recognize the symptoms and avoid and cure altitude sickness. Carrying a basic first aid kit can be of help in case of emergencies as such.

• Trekking is considered a physically demanding activity. There is less stopping and more moving which is why it is important for you to stay hydrated in order to avert physical pain while heading uphill nonstop. Consider consuming a good amount of food and water throughout the journey.

• Slow and steady is the key to winning this marathon. Your body starts lacking oxygen as you ascend. The faster you walk more oxygen you need to breathe. There are times when you definitely need to stop and catch your breath, but you would always want to keep your speed slow and constant.

• All be it this trek is the only thing you came all the way from the other end of the globe, never forget that it is still there, all you need is to be healthy to come back again and make it come true. Be rational while making decisions. There is always a next time.

  Annapurna Base Camp Trek can obviously be one great holiday experience with breathtaking mountain views, coming across the traditional Nepali way of living life in the Himalayas. Embrace the magnificent beauty of nature as you stroll through the trails of Annapurna Base Camp. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek gives you the opportunity to encounter the beauty of mountains like Mt. Machhapuchhre (6993m), Annapurna I 8,091 m (26,545 ft), Annapurna II 7,939 m (26,040 ft), Annapurna III 7,555 m (24,786 ft), Mt. Annapurna IV (7525m) Annapurna IV 7,525 m (24,688 ft), Gangapurna 7,455 m (24,457 ft), Annapurna South 7,219 m (23,684 ft).   Trekkers can extend their trip by walking back all the way down. They get an opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature in the Himalayas. Beginning from the foothills of Dhampus, the journey follows to the base camp of Annapurna past the Gurung towns Chhomrong, Dovan, and Deurali, and finally Annapurna Base Camp. Some of the main highlights are the sunrise and sunset views from Poonhill and the natural hot spring in Jhinu Danda. Trekkers can extend their trip by walking back all the way down. They get an opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature in the Himalayas. The journey begins and ends in the city of Lakes, Pokhara.

Trekkers spend almost two weeks on this exhilarating expedition. Concerning the level of difficulty, the trek is considered moderate and doesn’t need a strong physical fitness level. Even unseasoned trekkers and the normal person with sound health can find it easy to finish the trail. Decide whether you want to go in a group or solo, contact a reputed travel agency, and book yourself a flight to Pokhara, that’s where it all begins. Level up your adventurous skill this vacation, and conquer yourself.

Itinerary

Day 01: Welcome to Kathmandu 1360m

Day 02: Early morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara 950m.

Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Naya Pul at 1100m and then start the trek jhinu dada at 1700m.

Day 04: Today we trek from Jhinu Dada via Chhomrong to the Dovan 2130m.

Day 05: Today is the big day of the trek, Ascend through Dovan passing Machhapauchhare Base Camp 3720m to Annapurna Base Camp 4,130 m.

Day 06: Today our trek from the base camp to Sinwadanda is 2340m.

Day 07: Trek from Sinwadanda passing via Landruk walking for 5-6 hours to Tolka 1700m.

Day 08: The last day of the trek from Tolkh to Dhampus 1050m and then back to Pokhara.

Day 09: Today after breakfast, drive a scenic route from Pokhara to Kathmandu valley.

Day 10: Final Departure.