23 Nov 2023 Outdoor Himalayan
Are you planning to trek at Annapurna Base Camp in the mountains in Nepal? Is anyone here a beginner and looking for a guide for the trek? We, Outdoor Himalayan Treks present an article “Beginner Guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek” to provide the necessary insights and ease the trekkers to prepare and plan for the trek.
Annapurna Base Camp trek is also popular as the ABC trek which is a classic trek in the vicinity of the Annapurna region. This is a perfect trek that offers a stunning array of picturesque views, changing landscapes, local authentic villages, a diversity of flora and fauna, and towering snow-capped mountains (Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, etc.) in the circumstances.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an amalgamation of nature and culture that treats trekkers with phenomenal views of the beautiful Annapurna region. Not only is this, but the cultural immersion with the locals and experiencing their culture and traditions is one of the highlights of the trek. Below is the beginner guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
1. Research and Planning:
For trekking in the mountains in Nepal, research and planning are key elements. Without proper research and planning, the trekking experience will be painful rather than fun. For the best experience of trekking in the Annapurna region, we recommend thorough research and planning in the following aspects:
Select the right tour operator:
Selecting or choosing the right tour operator is the main factor in trekking in Nepal. If you choose the right tour operator half your work is accomplished. They help you prepare the itinerary that best fits your preferences. Make sure to choose the local tour operator as they are well-versed in the region, and prices are reasonable. You have also the flexibility of customization. While selecting, go through reviews and customer feedback.
Season/Best Time of the Year:
In the mountains of Nepal, weather and temperature are unpredictable. Annapurna Base Camp trek can be done throughout the year but for beginners, we recommend trekking in the peak seasons. It is the best time of the year to experience the best offerings during the ABC Trek.
In Nepal, Spring (Mar-May) is the peak season followed by Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the best season to trek in the Annapurna region. Trekkers can witness the panoramic mountain views, lush greenery, blooming flowers during Spring, snow-capped mountains, locally operated teahouses, and moderate temperatures with stable weather.
Trekking Permits:
Trekking in the Annapurna region requires compulsory trekking permits. These permits can be easily attainable and your tour operator looks after its arrangement, hence no need to worry. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card are the mandatory permits for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Its prices are as follows:
a. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
NPR 3000/person (Foreigners)
NPR 1000/person (SAARC nationals)
b. Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
NPR 2000/person (Foreigners)
NPR 1000/person (SAARC nationals)
NPR 500/person (Foreign Officials and their families)
2. Choosing an Itinerary:
For the comfortable Annapurna Base Camp trekking experience, choosing an ideal itinerary is the best decision any trekkers can make. The standard ABC trek itinerary is 10-14 days depending on the trekker’s pace and trek routes. We, Outdoor Himalayan Treks offer three different trek route options for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Trekkers can select the route that best aligns with their preferences.
Trek Route 1:
Tikhedhunga-Ulleri-Ghorepani-Poonhill-Tadapani-Sinuwa-Dovan-Deurali-ABC-Bamboo-JhinuDanda
Trek Route 2:
SyauliBazaar-Ghandruk-Chhomrong-Sinuwa-Dovan-Deurali-ABC-Bamboo-Jhinu-Nayapul
Trek Route 3:
Tolka-Jhinu-Sinuwa-Himalaya-MBC-ABC-Bamboo-Jhinu-Syomrong
3. Physical Fitness:
Physical Fitness plays a vital role in deciding your trekking experiences in the mountains in Nepal. The geographical structure of the trails in the Annapurna region is full of ascend, descend, steep slopes, and rugged. Trekkers need to walk daily for several hours on those trails. For beginners, it is a bit demanding but for the trekkers with good physical fitness, it is not a big deal.
We recommend trekkers participate in physical exercises including cardiovascular exercises and short hikes a month before the ABC trek. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful.
4. Acclimatization:
Trekking in the mountains in Nepal means gaining elevation above 2,500 meters. During the Annapurna Base Camp trek, the maximum elevation gain is 4,130 m which is the Annapurna Base Camp itself. Altitude sickness is normal above 2,500 m in the mountains. Thus, acclimatization is vital to prevent altitude sickness. It helps your body to adapt to the high-altitudes and surroundings. Take acclimatization rest as designed in the itinerary and if any health concern arises immediately inform the guide.
5. Guides and Porters:
Guides are compulsory to trek in the Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal. Porters are not mandatory but for beginners, we recommend hiring a porter for a hassle-free trekking experience. Trekkers’ safety is the utmost priority. Hence, certified licensed guides who are experts in this field are assigned. They have in-depth knowledge of the region, can speak English fluently, are technically competent, and can perform safety rescues. Furthermore, the itinerary is designed to comfort the trekking experience for trekkers.
6. Accommodation and Meals:
Locally-operated teahouses and guesthouses are accommodation types during the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The accommodation is basic which has rooms with 2 beds, a mattress, pillow, and a quilt. At peak season, sharing a room must be done. So, it’s better to book in advance. For the facilities like using Wi-Fi, hot water, shower, and laundry, trekkers must pay an additional charge.
Full-board meals are provided at the teahouses and has a variety of options from Nepali Dal-bhat to some continental dishes. Steamed mo:mo, hot thukpa, soup, porridge, pancake, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc. are some meal options during the ABC trek. Drinking water is easily available. Trekkers can buy a bottled water or fill water at teahouses. We suggest carrying a water bottle, and water purification kit to prevent water borne diseases.
7. Communication:
Internet facilities during the ABC trek are available but networks may be unstable. Mostly in the lower regions, internet facilities are stable and as the elevation rises networks are unstable. For communication, phone signals are there but unstable at the higher regions. To use the internet, purchase a local Sim card and buy a data pack. For emergencies, there is a satellite phone facility.
8. Packing Essentials:
For a better trekking experience in the mountains, suitable packing is also a key factor. Packing essential lists are provided by the tour operator. Here is a tentative list for packing essentials for the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Sleeping bag
Down jacket
LED headlight
Water bottle
First-aid kit
Water purification solution
Trekking poles
Raincoat
Sunglasses
Full fingers gloves
Socks
Thermal cap
Fleece
Sunscreen
9. Budgeting:
For a successful and memorable trekking experience, budgeting is the prime factor to consider. Wisely budgeting must be done. We suggest carrying enough local Nepalese currency while trekking as availability of ATMs and banks are fewer. ATMs may not be in working conditions. Accommodation and meals prices increases as you ascend higher. With the right tour operator, budgeting is easily manageable as everything is well designed. We advised carrying extra in case of emergencies or unforeseen events and to cover your expenses.
10. Health and Safety:
Staying healthy is essential for enjoying and successfully completing the Annapurna Base Camp trek. We recommend performing necessary health check-ups and stay healthy before embarking this ABC trek. To stay safe and healthy during the trekking, eat well, stay hydrated, and strictly follow the trekking guidelines. Take a basic first aid kit and if feeling uneasy inform the guide immediately.
11. Travel Insurance:
Travel Insurance is compulsory for trekking in the mountains as it acts as a safety weapon. If you are a beginner trekker, it’s a wise decision to get a travel insurance. Get travel insurance from trusted company and make sure it cover all medical emergencies, flight cancelations, emergency evacuations, loss of luggage, and high-altitude trekking.
12. Responsible Trekking:
Every country is different and has diverse geographical structure and culture. Hence, it is essential to respect the environment, local customs, and traditions. While trekking in the Annapurna region, make sure to dispose the waste properly. For taking photographs, ask for permission.
13. Enjoy the Journey:
The ultimate purpose of the trekking is entertainment and enjoyment. Trekkers’ can’t afford to miss it and shouldn’t as well. After all proper planning and preparation, it’s time to enjoy the trekking journey. Appreciate the beauty of the Annapurna region, adore the towering peaks, lush greenery, and scenic landscapes, interact with locals, and enjoy each and every moment.
TAGS: Annapurna Base Camp Annapurna Base Camp Trek annapurna region Beginner Guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek