Annapurna Base Camp Trek -14 Days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek-14 Days Itinerary, Cost 2023/2024

The 14-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a remarkable journey through the scenic trekking trail of the Annapurna Himalayan region in Nepal. This moderately challenging trek takes you through dense forests of oak, rhododendrons, and Himalayan ethnic villages while offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalayan Chain. Poon Hill (3210 m) and Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) are two of the most unique places on the trek towards Annapurna Base Camp. Poon Hill provides a variety of views, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna South. Annapurna Base Camp Trekking offers the chance to see Annapurna from a close-up point surrounded by giant Himalayan mountains in three directions.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek brings you closer to the majestic Annapurna peaks, with the Himalayan mountains surrounding you from three directions. The 14-day itinerary allows enough time for exploration, walking, and rest. The trek begins at Nayapul, which is approximately 1.5 hours away from Pokhara by private transport. This moderately graded trek does not require previous trekking experience and is a popular choice for trekkers throughout the year, except during the monsoon season. Comfortable, neat, and clean accommodations are available along the ABC trekking route.

Annapurna Base Camp is also known as Annapurna Sanctuary. It is an amazing location surrounded by dramatic Annapurna peaks on three sides, creating a natural Amphitheater. The trek to Annapurna Base Camp includes steep climbs, descents, and switchback routes. The trail begins in Nayapul, western Nepal. It winds up the hillsides and then passes through lush forests, eventually reaching Ghorepani. Poon Hill, at 3210m above sea level, offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range. Himchuli, Machapuchhre, and their snow-capped peaks are all visible. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers a shorter but still rewarding itinerary. The trail has some steep sections that lead to settlements with diverse ethnicities, such as Tadapani or Chhomrong. The trail also passes through a lush forest of rhododendrons. The lower oxygen level in the air makes the alpine trail section from MBC challenging. It requires mild acclimatization.

The 14-day Annapurna Base Camp Journey allows you to witness the grandeur of the Himalayan giants. The natural beauty bestowed upon this valley is truly awe-inspiring, with the towering pyramid peaks of Annapurna South and Fishtail dominating the surroundings. Along the way, you can experience the warm hospitality of the local ethnic groups and witness their traditional way of life. The Annapurna Base Camp is the epitome of a destination that combines cultural richness and stunning natural landscapes. As trekkers retrace their steps, they can also enjoy the rejuvenating natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda.

Note: With the extension of the motor road after a short walk from Jhinu; we can make a trip by road up to Pokhara if we want to avoid trekking. If you're feeling like driving, go for it.

How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be considered a moderate journey. The trail is relatively easier than other trekking routes in the area. The risk of altitude sickness is reduced as you gradually gain height. If you notice symptoms of AMS, immediately inform your trekking guide. The trail is a combination of both challenging and moderate trails. It is necessary to be able to walk 5 to 6 hours per day. Know that hiking in the Himalayas can be challenging. You can expect extreme weather conditions. Prepare yourself for anything that is out of your control. You can expect to be surprised at every turn when trekking and hiking in the mountains. The ABC trek offers adventurers and hikers a fascinating and daring route with increasing challenges and difficulties until we reach our goal.

Best time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Except for the monsoon, Annapurna Base Camp trekking can be done throughout the year. However, each season has unique features that the trekkers can prioritize.

Spring: Springtime (March-May) is a paradise of floral blooming. The rhododendron woods dot the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking route, and the spring season looks incredible with various species of wildflowers. The days are warmer and tolerably cold at night. The views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscape can be seen as significant. 

Autumn: Autumn (September-November) is the best preferable season to trek on the Annapurna base camp trekking. Autumn is comparatively colder than spring, but the days hold favorable weather to explore the surrounding views. Autumn is also a festival season in Nepal, and you will get an opportunity to experience the cultural side of Nepal. 

Winter: Winter (December-February) allows an outstanding trekking experience for those who look for the less crowded trail and get sublime scenery around the ABC trekking trail. Undoubtedly, the Himalayan setting of Mt. Annapurna and the surroundings look dramatic with the snowfall. Even the trekking trail remains snowy in the alpine territory, which brings freezing temperatures. Therefore, bring sufficient warm stuff along to stay warm.

What is the Food like during the trek? 

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided during the trek, and breakfast will only be provided in Kathmandu. We host welcome and farewell dinners for our guests. During the trek, we have breakfast and dinner at tea houses or lodges where we spend nights while there will be lunch at tea houses on the way. You have the option to choose from Nepali, continental, Tibetan, and Indian cuisines. As we take care of our guests, we ensure that you are getting healthy food. We prioritize locally produced organic food and also provide you with seasonable fruits. During the climbing session, hygienic, freshly cooked food will be provided.

Note: If you are a vegetarian, let us know in advance so that we can make proper arrangements for food as per your wish during the trek

Is there electricity and WI-Fi on the ABC Trekking Route?

All teahouses, where you'll spend the night during the trek, have electricity. Micro-hydropower or solar panels can charge your iPad, iPhone, and laptop for a small fee. There are no hotspots for free Wi-Fi along the trail. We do not recommend bringing your computer/laptop. Some teahouses offer hourly Wi-Fi but expect to get something other than high-speed connectivity along the remote trails.

Accommodations on the ABC Trek

You will be accommodated in a three-star standard hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the best available teahouses during the trek. All accommodations are on a twin-shared basis. A single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional. Since you will be trekking in remote regions, the services in the teahouses/guesthouse will be essential. We will try our best to arrange rooms with attached washrooms; however, teahouses in some places still need attached bathrooms.

Drinking Water on the ABC Trek

Regarding drinking water, the best option is to treat the local water with chlorine/iodine tablets or a steripen. The tea houses will give you good quality free water and, you can also get along the trail but, you will need to treat it. If you use the tablets, make sure they dissolve completely (about 30 mins). On most treks, you can buy mineral water along the trail. A liter of mineral water at lower-elevation tea houses costs around USD 1. However, higher elevations can cost up to $4, so the cost can add up.