Beginners Guide For The Annapurna Base Camp

Eco Nepal Trekkers

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Beginners Guide For The Annapurna Base Camp: Overview

If you are thinking about whether the beginners can do the Annapurna base camp trek or not, how hard is it and will you be able to handle it or not? Then don’t worry in the blog we will let you know everything about the Annapurna base camp trek.

Situated just 190 km far from Kathmandu, Annapurna base camp is an iconic palace that is famous in the world for its rich stunning natural beauty. Starting from the tourist hub Pokhara, this trek has seen many trekkers around the globe to date. Most of the trail paths are in good condition and due to the maximum number of visitors each year you can find more well-established food and accommodation than other regular trekking destinations.

Perfect for both beginners and regular mountain climbers, this trek promises to offer you an unforgettable journey while walking in the stunning landscape. Till now many beginners with good physical fitness and determination have already completed this trek. The main thing required for this trek is preparation. With the right plan, the preparation everything is achievable even this trek.

Let’s read further so that it will be helpful while preparing for the trek.

Highlights of Annapurna base camp trek

Experience awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, including iconic peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m).
Encounter traditional Gurung and Magar villages and their warm hospitality
Walk in the Annapurna Conservation Area and explore the rare species of plants and animals
Breathtaking view from the Annapurna base camp trek
Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda while returning from the trek
Watch the spectacular sunrise view from Poon Hill
Taste the traditional local food in the tea house

Itinerary Sample for the ABC Trek

Remember that the itinerary can be customized also as per your interests and needs. Our main goal is to make your journey more memorable, comfortable, and adventurous. If you have any special requirements or want to discuss itinerary or anything else, feel free to contact us. This is our standard 12-day itinerary.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827 m/2,713 ft), 6-7 hrs
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk then Trek to Chomrong (2,170 m/7,119 ft), 6 hrs
Day 04: Trek from Chomrong to Bamboo (2,310 m/7,578 ft), 5 hrs
Day 05: Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3,230 m/10,597 ft), 5 hrs
Day 06: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,549 ft), 6 hrs
Day 07: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310 m/7,578 ft), 8 hr
Day 08: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,760 m/5,774 ft), 6 hrs
Day 09: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul (2:30 hrs) then Drive to Pokhara (827 m/2,713 ft), 2 hrs
Day 10: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft), 6-7 hrs
Day 11: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 12: Final Departure

The best time to choose Annapurna base camp for Beginners

If you are trekking for the first time in Nepal you need to know that there are two trekking seasons for the ABC trek. The first one is during the Spring and the Second is the Autumn season. Even though it is possible to trek through the year, seeing the weather, temperature, and risk factors we don’t suggest trekking during winter and the monsoon season.

Spring and Autumn are also known as the trekking season or peak season. You can find many trekkers enthusiasts trekking in the season due to more comfortable trekking weather and temperature. Also, with the clear view of the sky and perfect panoramic view of the mountain, good conditions of the trail, these two seasons are ideal times for trekking.

Permits Required

While hiking for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek you need to have Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. You don’t need to worry about getting the permit because we will get this permit for you. This permit is compulsory while trekking in the Annapurna region and you need to carry the permit all the time for your safety purpose.

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

ACAP is one of the important permits that is required for this trek as you will be walking in the conservation area of Annapurna Region. ACAP Permit will cost you around NPR. 3000. Children below 10 years old can get this permit free of cost.

2.Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Another important permit needed for the Annapurna base camp trek is the TIMS Card. This card is used to track and maintain the record of trekkers. Most of the trekking places require this card but it cannot be used multiple times. This card price depends upon the nationality. For the SAARC nations, it will cost you NPR.1,000 and for the other nationalities, it will cost NPR. 2,000.

Continue reading: An Essential Guide to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permit

Required Gear and Equipment for Beginners

The weather in the mountain region especially at the high altitude is always unpredictable. So the trekkers must be prepared for all types of weather conditions while embarking for the trek. From good hiking/trekking boots to warm clothes including the trekking pole for walking, you need to pack everything.

Gear and equipment are like your companion, they will give you protection, comfort, safety, and support throughout the journey. Make sure your trekking gear and equipment are in good condition and if you want you can also buy and rent here in Nepal as well.

Similar article: Nepal Trekking Packing List

How difficult is it to trek to Annapurna base Camp for beginners?

Even though the Annapurna base camp trek is not technical trekking and does not require mountaineering skills there are certain things that you need to know if you are especially a beginner. The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you to a high altitude of 4,130 meters. Also, you need to walk in difficult terrain, narrow trails, uphill downhill, and forest as well you need to walk daily an average of 5-6 hours per day. So you must prepare in advance for this trek.

Beginners Guide For Annapurna Base Camp: Preparation

Here are some tips that you can do to prepare for Annapurna base camp trek

Cardiovascular Training:

Before 1-2 months of booking the trek start doing the activities like hiking, jogging, cycling, or stair climbing.

Strength Training:

You need to be able to walk for 6-7 hours daily during the trek carrying the backpack so building strength is very important before joining this trek. To increase strength you can join the Gym and also practice exercises like squats, lunges, calf raises, and planks in your workout routine.

Hiking Practice:

You can do a short hike near your home palace. While hiking practice walking uphill, downhill, and on rough terrain to prepare for the trek. It will also help you to boost your confidence.

Yoga:

Along with the physical fitness you must be mentally prepared for the ABC trek. Doing Yoga will help you to have a positive mindset, and calmness, manage stress, and most importantly maintain focus which will help to make your journey successful.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost For Beginners

While planning the ABC trek you might be wondering how much it will cost for this trek. Certain factors will determine the overall cost of the trek like flight, transportation, itinerary days, food, accommodation, season, etc. On average ABC trek will cost you anywhere between 600-1000 $. So you choose the package that is suitable for you and consult with the trekking agency about what is included in the package and what is not included.

Worth reading: Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Breakdown

Extra Tips

Here are some extra tips for the Beginners while undertsaking the Annapurna Base Camp trek

Only trek through the registered trekking agency
Hire a licensed Guide and porter for this trek to make the journey memorable
Learn about altitude sickness and its preventive measures
Drink enough water to keep your body hydrated all the time
Do enough preparation for this trek
Get travel insurance
Trek at the best time for maximum enjoyment and safety
Travel in the group for a heavy discount
Respect the local culture and tradition

Must Read: Guide and Porter Hire for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Final Say

Whether you are a beginner or mountain expert trekking in the Annapurna Region and beauty that you find during this trek is unmatched to other trekking destinations. The stunning views of the towering mountain, sunrise view, lush forest, beautiful landscape, warm hospitality, and traditional food, this trek has everything.

Annapurna is one of the must-visit destinations. No matter if you came here for the vacation or the natural beauty, this place will give you a heavenly feeling, and the memories that you will make during the trek will be lost forever in your mind. We hope that this blog about Beginners Guide For Annapurna Base Camp will help you to prepare for this trek. Thanks for reading!!!

Click here to book with Eco Nepal Trekkers: Annapurna Base camp trek – 12 days