Annapurna Base Camp Trek | Your Ultimate Guide

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal – and it’s easy to see why! It not only lets you traverse through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet but also provides ample opportunities to incorporate additional extraordinary destinations into your trekking itinerary.

Plus, it’s easily accessible for most and much cheaper than the Everest Base Camp Trek!

We completed the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in spring 2024, choosing to include the Khopra Danda and Mardi Himal Treks, and loved every minute of it! The well-marked trails lead you from dense rhododendron forests to a stark landscape of glaciers, snow-capped summits and raging ice-blue rivers.

This teahouse trek is a fantastic place to begin your love affair with the Himalayas and we are here to share everything we know to help you plan your epic adventure. In this post, you’ll find everything from the best time to visit to dealing with insurance. We’ll also cover the guidelines for hiring local guides and tips on preparing for your trek.

If you’re already set for your adventure and want to learn more about what to expect for each day, then check out our detailed Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary next. There, you’ll find plenty of images to fuel your excitement and descriptions of the trail conditions throughout.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase of a product we recommend through one of our links, we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you! This helps to support our blog and enables us to continue providing you with helpful tips and exciting adventures, so thank you 🙂

An Overview Of The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

There is no set amount of time or distance for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which can be completed in multiple ways and started from various locations. But regardless of your chosen duration or route, you can expect similar difficulty levels and facilities throughout.

Map Of The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

If you’re like us and prefer to have a GPS map of the area you’re trekking in, we highly recommend signing up for an Alltrails+ Subscription. The premium version allows you to download maps to your phone using the Alltrails App and access them offline, along with a range of other features.

If you subscribe to Alltrails+ and use the code lesstravelled30, you will save 30% on a yearly subscription. 

Below, we’ve created an interactive map for you to explore and analyze the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Giving you a sense of the terrain for your upcoming hike.

For more in-depth maps for each day, complete with GPS-tagged images and points of interest, visit our detailed Annapurna Base Camp Itinerary.

Why Choose The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

If you’re searching for a trek in Nepal that will leave you speechless without having to forego creature comforts like a hot shower and wifi most days, then the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the one for you!

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a fantastic introduction to trekking in Nepal. The valleys are covered in quaint farming villages, meaning you’re never far away from help and the starting points for the trek are roughly 1.5 – 2 hours away from Pokhara – a well-established city that caters to all trekkers’ needs.

For the majority of the walk, you’ll follow well-formed paths and stay in comfortable lodgings. All the while, you’ll be surrounded by a truly incomprehensible landscape that constantly changes from tropical valleys to wild rivers and formidable mountain ranges.

Many people choose between the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for their first adventure in Nepal. Both are incredible options that won’t disappoint, but if you’re looking for a slightly cheaper and less crowded trek, we recommend choosing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

How Hard Is The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

We were pleasantly surprised by the ruggedness of some parts of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Due to its popularity, we expected a well-groomed trail throughout, but numerous sections demanded some concentration to navigate the rocky terrain.

With that said, it is still a relatively easy trail – especially if you’ve opted to hire a porter. You have plenty of time to take it slow and there are many teahouses along the way to stop at if you don’t make it to your planned destination in time.

If you’re reasonably fit and up for an adventure, you can tackle the Annapurna Base Camp Trek without prior multi-day trekking experience. However, if this is your first time trekking at high altitudes, we strongly advise booking with a reputable trekking company to ensure safe acclimatisation as you climb.

Altitude Awareness For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the highest point you’ll reach (and sleep at) is 4,100 m – unless you decide to visit Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,220 m) or Khayer Lake (4,660 m). This altitude is more than 1,000 m lower than Everest Base Camp, making it an ideal first-time trek in Nepal.

However, don’t let this make you complacent. The impact of altitude can start to affect people from 2,500 m. Personally, we noticed the effects from roughly 3,500 m, but this will vary from one person to another.

Altitude affects each person differently, regardless of fitness level. When we ascended past 3,500 m, we experienced sluggishness, shortness of breath, mild headaches, and difficulty sleeping. These are all typical responses and the first three subsided quickly once we stopped walking. 

It’s essential that you ascend slowly, listen to your body and monitor your symptoms carefully to ensure they don’t escalate. Here are some quick tips to avoid altitude sickness and handle any symptoms.

If you’re concerned, trekking with an experienced guide is beneficial as they possess vast knowledge of altitude. They can aid in managing the various effects and identify potential risks. Furthermore, they typically carry emergency oxygen and Diamox to assist in emergencies until further help is available.

Note: For more information on this topic, check out The Longest Way Home’s article on altitude awareness and preventing altitude sickness.

Where Does The Annapurna Base Camp Trek Start & End?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek has three main starting points – Birethanti, Kande, and Ghandruk. All of which are roughly 1 – 3 hours from Pokhara. Previously, Nayapul served as the starting point instead of Birethanti, but with the construction of a new road, Birethanti has become more accessible for trekkers to begin their journey.

Generally, you will begin at one location and end at another. The most common route begins in Birethanti and ends in Ghandruk – or a village near these main locations.

We began our trek from Hile, a tiny village an hour northwest of Birethanti. This required a 4WD rather than an average taxi or public bus but it allowed us to cut off an extra day of walking in the valley. We ended in Sidhing after completing the Mardi Himal Trek, which is the most common endpoint for that trek. From here, you will also need to book a 4WD (aka Jeep) to return to Pokhara.

Transport Options From Pokhara For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

If you book through a trekking agency, all transportation will be arranged for you. You will most likely travel in a private Jeep – or at worst, a public Jeep. If you choose to trek solo, you will need to plan your transport before you begin the trek.

Transport Options For Birethanti

• Local Bus: Leaves from the Pokhara Baglung Bus Park and will drop you in Nayapul – you’ll have to walk from there or get a Jeep to take you to Birethanti or Hile. The price is roughly $3 USD and the journey takes approximately 2 – 2.5 hours.
• Jeep (aka 4WD): Hiring a private Jeep allows you to go directly from Pokhara to Birethanti or even Hile. This is the most expensive option, costing roughly $30 USD, but it is the quickest.
• Taxi: You can book a taxi from your hotel in Pokhara and it will cost roughly $20 USD, taking approximately 1 hour – around the same time as a Jeep (though limited to stopping at Birethanti).

Transport Options For Kande

• Local Bus: This bus also leaves from the Pokhara Baglung Bus Park and costs approximately $3 USD. This journey will take roughly 2 hours.
• Taxi: Booking a taxi from your hotel is the quickest option and will have you in Kande in approximately 45 minutes. This option costs roughly $20 USD

Getting To Pokhara From Kathmandu

You have the option to fly, take a bus, or hire a taxi from Kathmandu to Pokhara. We took the bus, enduring an 11-hour journey each way for a distance of only 200 km! While most trekking companies will go with the bus option, you can opt to upgrade to a flight or a private Jeep if you wish.

There are three types of buses which we’ve explained below:

• Local Bus – The most affordable choice, however, it lacks air conditioning, is often overfilled and includes numerous stops, leading to a lengthier journey. Approximately $5 – $8 USD
• Tourist Bus – This is a great middle option, offering both affordability and comfort with air conditioning. Approximately $15 – $25 USD
• VIP Tourist Bus – Most expensive yet still affordable, fitted with comfortable, spacious seats and air conditioning. Approximately $30 – $40 USD

Note: Many online sources claim it’s just a 6-8 hour bus ride. However, after speaking with plenty of other trekkers, we’ve discovered that no one has had a journey shorter than 10 hours in recent times.

That being said, the bus ride wasn’t too bad. We took a tourist bus which had comfortable seats and air conditioning. There were plenty of stops for food and coffee along the way, and our trekking agency covered our lunch at the halfway point.

Unless you’re on a strict budget, we advise against opting for a local bus. We passed several local buses that were completely filled with dust because the windows had to be opened due to the lack of air conditioning.

Best Time To Do The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The two main trekking seasons are spring and autumn. Autumn offers more stable weather throughout the day than spring but attracts larger crowds. We completed the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in early March and encountered storms most afternoons, but consistently woke up to breathtaking sunrises and enjoyed clear days until just after midday.

Another advantage of hiking in spring, besides encountering fewer crowds, is the vibrant display of colours from the blooming rhododendron trees. But if you choose to trek during this season, aim to reach your destination before 2 pm to dodge afternoon storms.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek isn’t recommended during summer as the region cops enormous amounts of rain, leading to very muddy trails and a high risk of landslides along the route.

During winter, many teahouses close, and some trails become dangerous with ice, deep snow, and avalanches. Not to mention the temperatures can drop as low as -30℃.

But we have heard that trekking in February can be amazing for more experienced hikers. You’ll get to enjoy the trails without the swarm of crowds, but you will need to be prepared for freezing conditions and potentially snowy tracks.

Planning Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Possible Routes To Choose For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

As we briefly mentioned earlier in this Annapurna Base Camp guide, there are several ways that you can complete this trek. The fastest route takes approximately 6 days and the longest is 25 days (not including transit from Kathmandu).

Even within the trekking routes, there are multiple points to start and end your trek. The decision often boils down to cost and time. Beginning and ending the trek from main locations is cheaper but may extend the itinerary by an extra day.

When you book with a local trekking agency such as Himalayan Masters, you can discuss route options with them to choose the one that fits your preferences and schedule the best. However, larger companies such as Intrepid will typically have a more rigid schedule with predetermined dates, limiting the ability to customise the route.

Below, we’ve outlined the most common routes for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, including highlights for each. This is by no means an exhaustive list of options, but it is a great place to start.

6-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Start/Finish: Ghandruk
Distance: 62 km
Time: 6 – 8 Days
Elevation Gain: Approx. 4,250 m
Highest Elevation: 4,100 m
Highlights: The fastest option with the least amount of distance

This is the ideal trekking route if you are limited on time and simply want to get in, witness the magic of the Annapurna range, and get out! You can alter the itinerary slightly to begin and end at different locations, changing up the return journey slightly, but this will add on a few extra kilometres.

8-Day Poon Hill & Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Start/Finish: Birethanti / Ghandruk
Distance: 92 km
Time: 8 – 10 Days
Elevation Gain: Approx. 6,950 m
Highest Elevation: 4,100 m
Highlights: Sunrise views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range from Poon Hill, circuit rather than out and back

This is the most popular route for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It forms more of a circuit than the shorter option and gives you the chance to see a breathtaking sunrise from Poon Hill. The stand-out views from Poon Hill showcase the majestic Dhaulagiri range. Additionally, this route features even more impressive rhododendron forests.

10-Day Annapurna Base Camp & Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

Start/Finish: Ghandruk / Sidhing
Distance: 100 km
Time: 10 – 12 Days
Elevation Gain: Approx. 7,800 m
Highest Elevation: 4,220 m
Highlights: Two base camps, sensational ridgeline views of the Annapurna Range, quieter experience on the Mardi Himal Trek

We’re surprised that this route isn’t more popular. The Mardi Himal Trek allows you to gaze down into the valley that you walk through for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and offers sensational ridgeline views of the Annapurna Range. We loved seeing the range from two perspectives and enjoyed a slightly quieter end to our adventure.

12-Day Poon Hill, Khopra Danda & Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Start/Finish: Birethanti / Ghandruk
Distance: 137 km
Time: 12 – 13 days
Elevation Gain: Approx. 10,500 m
Highest Elevation: 4,660 m
Highlights: More challenging trail, incredible views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Range, high alpine lake, much quieter experience at Khopra Danda

If you want to add some extra challenge and deviate from the popular tourist route, you must consider including Khopra Danda in your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This is our second-best recommendation after our full 16-day itinerary below.

Not only does the Khopra Danda trek veer away from the crowds, but it also takes you through some seriously mind-blowing landscapes – the highlights being the views from Khopra Danda itself and on the way to Khayer Lake.

You’ll also have the chance to include a second sunrise mission at Mulde Peak, which is far better than Poon Hill in our opinion.

Our 16-Day Poon Hill, Khopra Danda, Annapurna Base Camp & Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

Start/Finish: Birethanti / Sidhing
Distance: 168 km
Time: 16 – 17 days
Elevation Gain: 13,440 m
Highest Elevation: 4,660 m
Highlights: Incredible views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Ranges, fewer crowds at Khopra Danda and Mardi Himal, three major viewpoints and two sunrise missions

This is the ultimate Annapurna Base Camp Itinerary for those seeking a longer and more challenging adventure. The trek weaves seamlessly between well-known and less crowded paths, offering diverse views of the majestic Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. While this trek demands good fitness due to significant elevation changes, rest assured, the experience is absolutely worth it!

We loved every minute of our trek, finding it to be the perfect route for us. If you want to learn more about our experience, check out our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary.

22-Day Annapurna Circuit & Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Start/Finish: Bhulbhule / Ghandruk
Distance: 340 km
Time: 22 days
Elevation Gain: Approx. 18,000 m
Highest Elevation: 5,416 m
Highlights: Thorong La Pass, Annapurna Base Camp, two popular treks in one

If you are super keen and can’t decide between the Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek, you can join them together for an intense 3-week trek! As you can see by the elevation gain, this trek requires very high fitness levels.

We haven’t completed the Annapurna Circuit so we can’t comment on the highlights of that trek, but we have heard that Thorong La Pass is absolutely incredible and an enormous achievement. However, we have also heard that much of the trail follows a dusty road which doesn’t sound very exciting to us.

Side Trips On The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Our itinerary included four optional side trips – Poon Hill, Khayer Lake, Mulde Peak, and the Jhinu Hot Springs. Each side trip (except Khayer Lake) costs 100 NRP (less than $1 USD) per person to enter and we’re well worth it in their own ways.

Khayer Lake was our first introduction to high altitude and is an extremely worthwhile journey. The side trip takes you through a formidable landscape of rugged peaks before leading you to a seculded alpine lake that few visit.

Poon Hill and Mulde Peak are both short sunrise missions that offer sensational views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Mulde Peak was easily our favourite, but it’s not often part of the regular ABC route unless you include Khopra Danda.

Poon Hill is a popular addition to the ABC trek and is located just above Ghorepani. While it’s ridiculously busy, we still enjoyed the views and the new experience of watching the sunrise with 300 other people!

Jhinu Hot Springs is usually included in most itineraries, allowing you to soak your tired muscles at the end of your trek. We aren’t fond of man-made hot springs, but it was a great way to break up a day of walking.

Do I Need A Guide For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Technically, as of April 1st 2023, it is now mandatory for international trekkers to hire a licensed guide or book a tour with a trekking agency to trek anywhere in Nepal. This has always been a compulsory rule for restricted areas such as Manaslu and Kanchenjunga, but the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) are trying to implement it in all regions.

However, this rule is not policed in the Annapurna region and we passed plenty of solo trekkers who had no issue getting through the trekking checkpoints. But it is unclear whether this will change in the future and fines may apply if you’re found trekking without a guide.

For your first trek in Nepal, we strongly advise booking with a trekking agency or, at the very least, hiring a licensed local guide. Though this trek is quite straightforward, coping with altitude, changing mountain weather, and unfamiliar food can be challenging and even risky if you are unprepared or inexperienced.

Explore The Himalayas With Himalayan Masters

We chose Himalayan Masters for our treks in Nepal and couldn’t recommend them highly enough!

If you’re searching for a Nepalese trekking agency that will go to lengths to ensure that your Nepal experience is the best it can be, then look no further!

Use our code TRACKS5 for 5% off your booking.

Begin Your Himalayan Adventure

Guide Options For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Hiking The Annapurna Base Camp Trek With A Trekking Company

Booking your Annapurna Base Camp Trek through a trekking company is the easiest and most inclusive option. It allows you to leave all the planning up to the company and simply enjoy the trek through the magnificent Annapurna region.

Your tour company will organise all of your trekking permits, accommodation and transport for you (excluding your international flight). And on most occasions, your tour will include three meals and three non-alcoholic drinks per day on the trek.

The downside to booking with a trekking agency is that it can be more expensive, you may have to trek with a group, and the dates and itinerary are usually fixed.

However, if you book with a smaller local trekking company like Himalayan Masters, you generally have the freedom to customise your itinerary, trek with your chosen group, and select a date that suits you. Plus, they offer a more affordable tour with minimal variations.

Here is a list of the positives and negatives of booking your Annapurna Base Camp Trek through a trekking agency:

Hiking The Annapurna Base Camp Trek With A Licensed Private Guide

For travellers accustomed to planning their own adventures, hiring a licensed private guide can be appealing. This option can allow you to fully organise your trip before selecting a local guide to accompany you.

Choosing this avenue typically requires you to arrange your own transport, trekking permits and accommodation before and after the trek. During the trek, you will need to book and pay for lodgings and meals as you go. Some lodgings can be called beforehand to secure a spot, which is recommended from Deurali, but it can sometimes be challenging to get through on the phone.

On most occasions, this is a fantastic option for experienced travellers and many form incredible bonds with their guides. However, it’s important to be cautious when choosing your guide and ensure you read reviews and check their license. We encountered several trekkers who found themselves with an inexperienced, unprofessional, or unqualified guide, which significantly impacted their overall experience.

Here is a list of the positives and negatives of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp with a private licensed guide:

How To Book A Tour Or Guide For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

You’ll find a staggering number of certified trekking companies, both Nepalese and internationally operated, and even more licensed private guides conducting business in the Himalayas! This can cause a huge headache when sifting through your options to find the ideal company to book your tour with.

Tips For Finding The Best Trekking Company In Nepal

The first thing we suggest you do is to write down a list of your top priorities that outline what you seek from the company.

Our main focus was to book with a Nepalese company owned entirely by Nepalese individuals. We wanted to make sure our spending directly supported the Nepalese economy.

Our second key priority was to select a company with a strong commitment to sustainability. We heard troubling tales of other trekking companies carelessly discarding trash and old shoes out of car windows, showing a complete lack of respect for the beautiful environment.

Lastly, we combed through reviews to confirm that the company we selected was reliable, safe, and professional. Many believe that Nepalese-run trekking companies aren’t as reliable as international ones and provide lower-quality treks. However, based on our first-hand experience, this is far from the truth.

We learned about Himalayan Masters through a recommendation from a trusted friend, and our interaction with this company was outstanding! This is the simplest method to guarantee you choose the correct trekking company. If you don’t have a friend to rely on, there are various other steps you can take to assist in your search.

• Engage in Facebook groups – numerous Facebook groups, such as this one, are dedicated to assisting fellow adventurers with Nepal inquiries. Just ensure you join a public group, not one managed by a specific trekking company, which could be biased!
• Explore social media – head to Instagram and look up the company using hashtags or their handle. Review feedback from other trekkers about their experiences; if a company has a lot of positive exposure, it’s a good sign.
• Consult a friend – while you may not know someone who has trekked in Nepal, casting your question out there might connect you with a friend of a friend who has!
• Check out reviews – it may sound obvious, but skim through reviews from at least three different sources for a wider range of opinions from trekkers. Different platforms like Google, Trip Advisor, and official websites can offer varying perspectives.
• Ask questions – reach out to all trekking companies you’re considering and ask about any information you require. A company’s responses can provide insight into their professionalism.

Tips For Finding The Best Private Guides In Nepal

As we chose a trekking company for our Nepal treks, our experience in sourcing private guides is limited. However, the aforementioned tips can also apply when searching for the best private guide.

For more information on hiring a private guide for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, We strongly suggest utilising The Longest Way Home’s resource to assist in finding a trustworthy guide.

Do I Need A Porter For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

One of the main reasons why trekking in Nepal is so accessible is the fact that you don’t have to carry all of your own gear. You have the opportunity to hire a local Nepalese porter to carry up to 10 kg of your gear, but it is not mandatory and totally a personal preference.

We were honestly surprised by how many people opted for a porter. Whether this is encouraged by trekking companies or not, we’re not sure. But if you have experience carrying your backpack on multi-day hikes then it isn’t really necessary.

The only difference between other multi-day treks is the altitude and duration. This can be tougher with a full backpack, but chances are your pack will be much lighter than you’re used to carrying.

On the contrary, if you have limited experience carrying a backpack weighing approximately 12 kg or more for multiple days, it could prove to be quite challenging. In this circumstance, we recommend hiring a porter to allow you to ease into the world of multi-day trekking.

Buying Insurance For Trekking In Nepal

Organising insurance is undoubtedly the biggest hassle when planning the Annapurna Base Camp Trek – or any trek in the Himalayas for that matter. Most standard insurance policies do not cover hiking above 3,000 m and may exclude helicopter rescue services as well.

From talking to the owner of Himalayan Masters and the staff at the international hospital in Kathmandu (where we landed after using our insurance on the Everest Base Camp Trek), we found out that Allianz is the most dependable insurance company, followed closely by Covermore.

We used our Commonwealth Bank credit card insurance, which partners with Covermore. Other than a little frustration with them continuously emailing us asking for the same information, they covered our evacuation from the trek and our hospital stay.  Additionally, Covermore has a representative in Nepal who can easily coordinate with your trekking company – alleviating some of the stress off your shoulders.

When selecting your insurance, make sure to opt for the adventure package that typically covers trekking up to 6,000 m and includes helicopter rescue. If you cannot locate this information, consider looking for a different insurance policy that explicitly mentions it in their Product Disclosure Statement.

What Permits Do I Need For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need to obtain the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

Currently, as of 2024, the TIMS card costs roughly $15 USD per person for foreigners and the ACAP costs $22.50 USD per person for foreigners.

When you book with a trekking agency, these permits and fees will be included in your tour cost and organised by the company. We just had to provide our company with the following documents:

• a photo of our passport (with at least 6 months remaining before expiry)
• travel insurance information
• Nepal tourist visa that extends past your tour completion date
• 2 passport-sized photos

If you choose to trek independently or with a private guide, you will need to organise your trekking permits yourself. This can be done at the Tourism Service Centre in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

How Much Does It Cost To Hike To Annapurna Base Camp?

The price that you’ll pay for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek varies from one company to another and also depends on the length of time you choose. Typical prices range from $800 USD to $1,500 USD for an 11 – 14 day itinerary.

Generally, you will pay more for an international company without receiving any significant differences in the trip. Himalayan Masters is one of the cheaper options for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek while still including high-quality accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

The main differences that you’ll find among trekking companies are the quality of the accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and the level of comfort for transport between the two cities. 

Additionally, some companies will include the cost of a porter while others will have this as an add-on. If you don’t want to use a porter, choosing a company that doesn’t include this cost is a great way to save money.

Pro Tip: Trekking companies typically lower the cost per person as the group size increases. It can be highly cost-efficient to gather a group of 4 to 8 friends for the trek if possible.

Here is a breakdown of expenses covered by Himalayan Masters and what you should anticipate from other trusted trekking companies. If you intend to trek to Annapurna Base Camp with a personal guide or independently, remember to include these extra costs.

Extra Expenses To Expect For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

In addition to the expenses covered by your trekking company, these are some extra costs that you will need to factor into your budget.

Extra Expenses To Expect Along The Trek

When planning for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek, remember to budget for extra costs like hot showers, wifi, charging, toilet paper, additional food, and drinks.

You might find souvenirs in larger villages but expect higher prices than in Pokhara or Kathmandu for similar items.

• Hot showers: roughly $2 – $4 USD per person and available at most teahouses along the trek
• Wifi: between $2 – $4 USD per person, becoming more expensive and less reliable at higher altitudes
• Charging electronics: approximately $2 – $4 USD per device (use a power bank to save money) and becomes less reliable and more expensive at higher altitudes
• Extra snacks and drinks: A pot of tea averaged from $4 – $8 USD and snacks such as chocolate bars and dessert cost roughly $2 – $4 USD, sweet biscuits are generally cheaper
• Toilet paper: You need to supply your own toilet paper, which costs roughly $1 – $3 USD per roll and is available to purchase from most teahouses

To save money during the trek, we purchased wifi for just one device and brought a portable charger to then use for our various electronics. You can also save money by stocking up on biscuits and snacks from trekker’s shops in bigger towns such as Chhomrong and Ghandruk.

How Much Cash Do I Need To Take With Me On The Trek?

If you decide to book the Annapurna Base Camp trek through a trekking agency, then you will only need to bring enough cash for the above-mentioned extras. We budgeted $10 USD each per day, which was mostly used for pots of tea and biscuits! 

We finished the trek with roughly a third of our money left over, but we didn’t take showers every day and only bought wifi when there was no phone service.

If you choose to hike the Annapurna Base Camp Trek independently or with a private guide, you will need to bring cash for food, accommodation and extra expenses along the trek. To be safe, we suggest budgeting for at least $50 – $60 USD each per day (not including transport costs).

What To Pack For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Figuring out what to pack for a week to two-week trek can feel daunting, but you may be surprised by how little you really need! The key focus is on keeping warm as you ascend to higher altitudes.

To help you organise your trip, we’ve compiled a comprehensive packing list for trekking in Nepal – including guidance on renting items like a sleeping bag or down jacket. You can access the complete Nepal Trekking Packing Guide here. Or if you just want a handy checklist to help tick off your items, then download the PDF below.

Downloadable Packing List For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For our trek, which we completed in March, we found that the blankets were warm enough on most nights and our guide continuously asked us if we required extra blankets as well. This meant that we didn’t really need to pack our winter sleeping bags for this trek, which would have lightened our packs!

However, due to this trek being extremely popular, the teahouses experience a very constant turnover and some of the linen wasn’t very clean. We highly recommend packing a sleeping bag liner and a pillowcase – or an inflatable pillow.

What To Expect On Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Accommodation On The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a teahouse trek, where you stay in lodges located in villages along the trail each night. For those who are accustomed to remote multi-day treks, this will feel like absolute luxury. But if you’re new to multi-day trekking and travelling in less developed countries, be prepared for VERY basic facilities.

The accommodation throughout the trek is all quite similar, consisting of a shared dining area, simple twin rooms (or more), and communal toilets and showers in most cases. In larger villages such as Ghorepani and Chhomrong, you might get lucky with a private bathroom – or an ensuite toilet at the very least – but it’s best not to expect this luxury.

Many of the teahouses had seen better days, but the ones we stayed in were clean and tidy. The rooms typically had nothing more than single beds with fitted sheets, a pillow and a thick blanket. Most teahouses had both a western-style toilet and a traditional squat toilet, but be prepared to use squat toilets on some occasions. The showers usually had weak water pressure and lukewarm temperatures, but they got the job done!

At the higher altitudes, you’ll generally find a cosy fireplace in the dining hall where you can hang gear to dry. However, at these altitudes, running water isn’t always available so remember to bring hand sanitiser!

Food And Water On The Trek

What Food To Expect For Meals

We were pleasantly surprised by the dining experience throughout the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Each teahouse had a similar menu that consisted of some local dishes, other Asian cuisine and their take on popular Western meals.

Opting for local Nepalese or Tibetan meals was the safest option, and we were consistently satisfied with the dal bhat – it offered great value with a generous second (or third) serving! Another of our favourites was fried veg noodles (chow mein), which was sometimes plain but full of freshly grown veggies.

As you would expect, the Western dishes were average and sometimes their take on popular meals was interesting – to say the least! With that said, we did enjoy the cheesy tomato pasta at various teahouses, which was loaded with cheese!

For breakfast, you can expect to find porridge, muesli, Tibetan bread, chapati and eggs at every teahouse. Some will also offer a big breakfast option which generally consists of eggs, potatoes and either chapati or Tibetan bread, and your choice of tea or coffee – this was our go-to and the best value for money.

For vegetarians and vegans, there are plenty of options including dal bhat, chow mein and potatoes prepared in various ways. We chose to eat vegetarian on our trek as the meat storage and transportation are questionable. We found that the nutrients we received from the dal bhat and chow mein were more than enough to keep us sustained.

Snacks & Desserts

The snack selection available at the teahouses is limited and quite pricey compared to Kathmandu. Snickers bars and sweet biscuits are commonly available, but healthier choices like muesli bars are rare. 

We brought muesli bars as backup, but the generous lunch and dinner servings meant we hardly needed them!

All menus featured some dessert choices, which included the popular Snickers roll – a deep-fried Snickers wrapped in dough (don’t add the custard, trust us. Just look at the above photo… yuk) – and chocolate pudding or rice pudding. But we usually opted for cookies instead as it was much cheaper.

Navigating The Drinking Water Situation

The water in Nepal is unsafe for Westerners to consume. Our stomachs are not accustomed to the bacteria present in the water sources, which poses a high risk of bacterial infections, viruses, and parasites.

In Kathmandu, the locals themselves avoid drinking the water, leaving you with the choice of purchasing bottled water or using the dispensers available in hotels. The water quality in the mountains is marginally better than in Kathmandu, deemed safe for locals to consume. However, it is still unsafe for us and we must treat the water to prevent any illnesses.

We used the Sawyer Squeeze filtration system to filter our water, along with water purifier tablets. We added the extra step of using tablets because almost all filtration systems don’t kill viruses.

You can get away with only using the purifier tablets on most occasions, but we found that the water was sometimes murky at the more remote locations – especially on the Mardi Himal Trek.

Bottled water is available in most villages along the trek, but this is very wasteful and expensive. Each bottle of water costs approximately $1 – 2 USD and is only 500 ml or less. If you don’t have any way to treat the water, you can pay for boiled water which removes all viruses and bacteria – as long as the water is boiled properly.

Wifi, Phone Service And Charging Electronics On The Trek

Don’t Rely Solely On Having Wifi For Your Trek

While almost every teahouse will offer wifi at a price, it is not always reliable – especially in bad weather or at higher altitudes. We often found that our little amount of phone service worked better than the wifi.

With that said, you will be connected on most days of your trek if you don’t want to purchase a SIM card.

Choose NTC For Your Phone Provider

There are two phone providers in Nepal – NTC and Ncell. Ncell is the most commonly available, but it has limited coverage in the Himalayas. We suggest purchasing an NTC SIM card for trekking.

NTC has better coverage compared to Ncell, but it is still limited to just local calls and texts at higher altitudes.

The best place to purchase this SIM card is at this store in Kathmandu, many others will rip you off. You should expect to pay roughly 50NRP ($0.40 USD) for the SIM card and then 900NRP ($7 USD) for 20GB for 28 days.

Charging Electronics On The Annapurna Trek

At lower altitudes, especially near larger villages, you’ll typically find power outlets in the rooms that you can use for free. However, as you ascend, the villages start to rely on solar and have limited electricity. This is where you’ll need to start paying for charging and utilise the communal power outlets in the dining area.

Bring along a power bank so that you are only charged for one device, as you’ll pay per device you charge. We carried one 20,000mAh power bank which was more than enough for the days we couldn’t charge.

Pro Tip: Charge your power bank before making your way to Duerali and Annapurna Base Camp, these places are more expensive and unreliable.

Money & ATMs On The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

There are no ATMs or EFTPOS machines along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or any of the additional routes we included. The last ATM you will have access to is in Pokhara, where you will need to withdraw all the cash you’ll need for your trip, including funds for your return transport if you are not trekking with a tour group.

We budgeted $10 USD per person, per day and had at least a third left over at the end. However, we were happy to have a bit extra so that we didn’t have to worry about affording extra pots of tea or cookies when we wanted them.

We never felt unsafe carrying a large amount of cash on the Annapurna Trek. We kept our money and passports in our backpacks in a waterproof pouch, but if you’re anxious, you can use a money belt.

Pro Tip: We found that the Nabil ATMs offered the most cost-effective option for cash withdrawals, with a fee of 700 NRP ($5 USD) per transaction and a maximum withdrawal limit of 37,000 NRP ($277 USD).  Make sure that you visit an ATM that’s enclosed, it’s best to use one that’s attached to the bank where possible.

What Temperatures Can I Expect On The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

During our March trek to Annapurna Base Camp, the weather followed a consistent pattern each day. Clear skies greeted us in the morning, providing a beautiful warm start, but by early afternoon, clouds moved in over the valley, bringing thunderstorms.

This is very common for spring, but autumn often sees fewer thunderstorms – which is why it is the most popular trekking season. But no matter which trekking season you choose, you can expect warm days and cool nights – progressively getting colder as you gain altitude.

For the most part, we were happy walking in a light Merino t-shirt or long-sleeve and breathable pants. We then had a lightweight fleece jacket and rain jacket to layer up when the sun was hidden or the cold wind started blowing.

Once we reached camp, we rugged up with a down jacket and fleece trackies and cosied up by the communal fire, which was usually lit by 5 pm.

We experienced some unprecedented snow at Annapurna Base Camp and had several nights below -2℃ when we were at altitudes over 3,500 m. The rooms aren’t insulated so pack warm base layers and opt for an extra blanket if offered.

Other Important Information For Trekking To Annapurna Base Camp

Being Sustainable On The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Limit Your Plastic Usage

Even though we expected the waste situation to be bad in Nepal, we were shocked by just how bad it was on the Annapurna Trek! Rubbish lined the trails throughout the region, seriously taking away from the beauty of the mountains.

While a large portion of the rubbish comes from locals due to the lack of a waste management system and are forced to burn or bury their waste, we were sadly surprised by the number of tourists we saw littering.

While the situation isn’t perfect, there are rubbish bins positioned along the trails and at every teahouse. We made an effort to reduce our plastic usage and picked up as much as we could with a plastic bag we had been given. 

We easily reduced our waste by filtering water into reusable bottles and opting for unpackaged food. However, this wasn’t always effective since teahouses offer limited snack choices beyond Snickers bars and cookie packets.

Additionally, if you have any gear that has reached the end of its life, wait until you return to a larger town or city to dispose of it, sparing remote mountain villages from the burden.

Respect The Wildlife And Keep To The Trails

The Annapurna region is protected as a conservation area and is home to thousands of unique and wonderful plants and endangered animals such as the Kashmir Musk deer and the Himalayan Musk deer.

Please be respectful when you’re travelling through the Annapurna Conservation area by sticking to the trails and keeping your distance from the animals. Ensure you don’t leave any food lying around that might attract animals as this is detrimental to their health.

Preparing For The Physical Challenge Of The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek requires a good level of fitness to tackle the high elevation gain and steep trails. You can always opt to shorten the longer days by staying at villages in between, but we still suggest making time to physically prepare for the trek.

For preparing for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the most effective method is to get out on as many hikes as possible, choosing ones with significant elevation changes. If hiking isn’t readily available or you lack time, consider exercising at home or in the gym. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) or a comparable workout is highly advantageous for hikers, enhancing both strength and cardiovascular fitness at the same time.

We’re big fans of Centr Fit for home workouts. With a wide variety of classes catering to all levels, their short-term training programs are fantastic for preparing you for treks in Nepal.

Sadly, there is no definitive way to prepare yourself for high altitudes. Replicating the exact conditions is unfeasible, and even the most physically fit hikers can succumb to altitude sickness. However, you can reduce the likelihood of altitude sickness by enhancing your fitness level.

FAQs For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

How Difficult Is The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is physically demanding, involving at least a 5,000 m elevation gain on the shortest route. However, groomed trails along most of the trek and numerous villages for breaks make it more manageable, allowing for shorter and easier days.

This makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek a fantastic option for your first adventure into the Himalayas, where you can alter the route to suit your physical ability. But if the length of the trek and the huge elevation gain is putting you off, we highly recommend checking out the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek instead.

How Long Does It Take To Hike Annapurna Base Camp?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be done in as little as 6 days, but the recommended duration is 10 -12 days. We added the Khopra Danda Trek and the Mardi Himal Trek to our itinerary, which made our total duration 16 days (without including driving days).

Can Beginners Do Annapurna Base Camp?

Yes, you can do Annapurna Base Camp Trek without being an experienced hiker. However, we recommend ensuring you have a good level of fitness so you can enjoy your trek. But in regards to the trail difficulty, the majority of it is straightforward and your guide will help you through any of the difficult sections.

Is Annapurna Base Camp Harder Than Everest Base Camp?

The Annapurna Base Camp and the Everest Base Camp Trek are both quite similar in duration and difficulty. Both follow a well-maintained trail for the majority of the route with comfortable accommodations along the way. However, due to the Everest Base Camp Trek reaching higher altitudes, it is regarded to be more difficult compared to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Can You Sleep At Annapurna Base Camp?

Yes, there are several teahouses scattered along the flat expanse beside the mighty glacier. Staying at ABC provides you with an incredible sunrise opportunity just outside your door. While some will opt to stay at Machhapuchhre Base Camp and trek to Annapurna Base Camp in the morning, we suggest staying at ABC. The only reason we would recommend staying at MBC is if you don’t have warm enough gear for the forecasted temperatures.

Which Month Is Best For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The most popular months to trek to Annapurna Base Camp are April and October. These months provide the most reliable and warmest weather. However, if you’d like to avoid some of the crowds and you’re not afraid of slightly cooler weather, then we recommend booking between late February and early March or November.

Is Annapurna Base Camp Worth It?

The short answer is yes, the Annapurna Base Camp is 100% worth it! You’ll encounter magnificent landscapes, receive warm local hospitality throughout your journey and have the opportunity to stand beneath a mighty 8,000 m + mountain!

However, it is one of the most popular treks in Nepal and it doesn’t provide much of a challenge for experienced trekkers. If you’re searching for something more remote, challenging and quiet then we recommend checking out the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek instead.

How Fit Do You Need To Be For Annapurna Base Camp?

There are several steep sections and quite a lot of elevation gain and loss throughout the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, including one giant day of descending. It requires a moderate level of fitness, but there are plenty of villages along the way for breaks and to stop if you don’t make it to your planned destination.

Can I Do The Annapurna Base Camp Trek Alone?

Technically no, as of April 1st 2023, you are required to hire a local guide or book your tour with a trekking agency. However, this isn’t currently policed for the Annapurna region and we met many solo trekkers who had no trouble going through the permit checkpoints.

With that said, they may begin to police solo trekkers more closely in the future and you may incur fines if you don’t book with a local guide.

Where To Stay Before And After Your ABC Trek

If you decide to book your Annapurna Base Camp Trek through a trekking agency, your tour will most likely include one night’s stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after your trek.

If you’ve chosen to trek with a private guide or wish to extend your stay in either city, here are our top suggestions for places to stay in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Pokhara

The most popular place to stay in Pokhara is Lakeside, where you’ll find plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants and retail stores lining the beautiful Phewa Lake.

• Hotel Queens Park – This is where we stayed and really enjoyed it. The staff was very friendly, the shower had good pressure and hot water, and the rooms were comfortable. However, it’s a bit pricier compared to similar quality options.
• Pokhara Backpackers Hostel – A more budget-friendly option where you have plenty of opportunities to meet fellow adventurers.
• Hotel Middle Path & Spa – For those looking for a little more luxury and facilities without paying crazy prices, this is a fantastic option that includes a spa, pool and gym.

Kathmandu

If you’ve only got a few days to spare, then Thamel or nearby is the top choice for travellers. This suburb allows you to stay close to all the action and avoid hectic taxi rides through the busy city.

However, if you are planning to spend a little while in Kathmandu and would rather escape the chaos, then we highly recommend basing yourself in Boudhanath.

Here are our favourite places that we stayed at in Thamel and Boudhanath:

Thamel

• Daali Hotel & Apartment – This was our favourite hotel in Kathmandu, with the best buffet breakfast and a prime location.
• Himalayan Ghar – For those on a budget, the quality of the Himalayan Ghar is unbeatable. While the buffet breakfast didn’t match the Daali’s, the secluded location was pleasantly quiet.

Boudhanath

• Ananda Tree House Eco Stay – Ananda’s offers a welcoming homestay with a delightful vegetarian cafe on the ground floor. The spacious rooms and central location make it ideal for exploring Boudhanath.

Other Resources For Travelling In Nepal

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
• What To Pack For Trekking In Nepal
• Best Restaurants In Thamel, Kathmandu
• The Best Cafes & Restaurants in Boudhanath, Kathmandu
• The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Itinerary
• The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek Guide

Final Thoughts

Wow, this is a ton of information! Planning a trek in Nepal may feel overwhelming at first, but breaking it down step by step will help everything make sense!

Just remember to utilise the experience of a trekking agency if that is the path you choose to take. But don’t forget to do your research before selecting a trekking company – or simply pick Himalayan Masters, who are highly recommended by us! 

We hope that this guide has helped you decide whether the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the Nepal trek for you! We can guarantee that you won’t be disappointed with the incredible hospitality and the mind-blowing landscapes that follow you throughout your journey.

If you have any further questions about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, drop a comment below or DM us on Instagram.