Trekkers considering the Annapurna Base Camp Trek must know how high is Annapurna Base Camp. This knowledge is crucial for preparing for the trek and deciding whether it suits them.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is among the most popular destinations in Nepal. Its scenic trek routes, gorgeous mountain panoramas, vibrant culture, and biodiversity attract trekkers, nature lovers, and biologists worldwide. Moreover, the Annapurna Trek is suitable for any novice or seasoned trekkers.
The trek usually begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. The trek covers a distance of 115 km. Your Himalayan trek starts from a lower altitude towards the higher to reach Annapurna Base Camp. The trekking trails lie inside the Annapurna Conservation Area and go through dense forests, traditional villages, suspension bridges, rivers, glaciers, and waterfalls. En route, you will cross the Machapuchare Base Camp. The standard Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes around 12 days to complete.
The base camp is 4130 meters (13,549 feet) above sea level and is also the highest point on the trek. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers gorgeous mountain panorama views of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Machapuchre (Fishtail), Nilgiri, Himchuli, Dhaulagiri, and more. However, the trek’s high elevation makes it a challenging trek. So, how high is Annapurna Base Camp compared to the other base camps?
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. So, make sure you read to the end!
Table of Contents
Highlights Of Annapurna Base Camp
Take a look at the highlight of My Everest Trip’s 12 days at Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
- Embark on the beautiful journey to the Annapurna region.
- Traverse from subtropical dense verdant to highland meadows.
- Explore the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Hike to Poon Hill Viewpoint (3210 meters) and observe a breathtaking sunrise view.
- Explore the Annapurna Base Camp (4130 meters) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 meters) in Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Witness the spectacular views of the Annapurna ranges, Macchhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and more.
- Dip in the natural hot spring of Jhinu Danda.
- Experience the rich culture and tradition of Gurung and Magar ethnic communities.
How High is Annapurna Base Camp?
The Annapurna Base Camp is right below Mount Annapurna, the world’s tenth-highest mountain, at 4130 meters above sea level. The base camp offers majestic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Machapuchre, and Gangapurna.
Often, many confuse the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek. But the trek takes you to a relatively lower elevation than the Annapurna Circuit, as the trek doesn’t circle the Annapurna massif. Meanwhile, Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek have the same height.
To give you an idea of how high the Annapurna Base Camp is, we will compare it with some other popular mountain base camps:
- The world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest’s base camp, is 5364 meters above sea level. The Everest Base Camp is 1234 meters higher than the Annapurna Base Camp’s height.
- Mount K2 is the world’s second tallest mountain, and its base camp is 5150 meters above sea level. It is 1020 meters higher than Annapurna Base Camp’s altitude.
- Mount Kanchenjunga’s base camp is the world’s third tallest mountain, at 5143 meters. In its comparison, the Annapurna Base Camp lies at a relatively lower elevation of 1013 meters.
- En route to the Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers will cross the Machhapuchhare Base Camp at 3700 meters. The base camp lies beneath Mount Machhapuchhare (6993 meters), famous for its fishtail shape.
Importance of Knowing the Height Of ABC
Knowing the height of Annapurna Base Camp is the number one way to understand the trek’s difficulty and the risk of altitude-related sickness. As you climb to a higher altitude, the oxygen level and air pressure in the atmosphere reduce. This makes breathing difficult and climbing more strenuous for trekkers.
Trekkers can assess their physical condition and make preparations accordingly. They can also compare the height of the Annapurna Base Camp with other trekking destinations in Nepal to decide whether the trek suits them. Likewise, they can plan their itinerary and schedule acclimatization days that suit them.
Knowing the height of the Annapurna Base Camp also allows trekkers to assess the weather and temperature there. This way, they can prepare proper and adequate clothing and gear for the trek. Proper planning and preparation are required to complete this trek. Hence, trekkers need to know the height of ABC before they decide to take the trek.
Altitude sickness and symptoms
Altitude sickness is common among trekkers who ascend high elevations without proper acclimatization. The elevation, temperature, and humidity change can cause trekkers to experience various symptoms of altitude-related sickness. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can be fatal if taken lightly. The syndromes are of three types:
- Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the mildest syndrome. Its symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea, difficulty breathing, dizziness, insomnia, swelling, and loss of appetite.
- High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) is a severe syndrome that occurs when fluid accumulates in the lungs when the body lacks oxygen. Its symptoms are fatigue, shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, persistent dry cough, rapid heartbeat, and blue or gray lips and fingertips.
- High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is a severe syndrome that occurs when fluid accumulates in the brain when the body lacks oxygen. Its symptoms are vomiting, severe headache, lack of coordination, disorientation, and behavioral change.
The best way to prevent altitude-related sickness is to acclimatize properly. It helps the body to adapt to the changing altitude and surroundings. Similarly, it is crucial to stay well-hydrated during the trek. Trekkers must take proper precautions and listen to their bodies to minimize the risk of altitude-related sickness.
Preparation for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp
You need physical and mental preparation for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. Despite the moderate difficulty, the trek requires reasonable fitness, stamina, strength, and endurance. Anyone with the mentioned capacity can join the trek regardless of age and experience. The trek typically takes 12 days.
While on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, trekkers trek on rough and rocky terrains for 5 to 6 hours daily. The steep ascend and descent makes the trek more demanding and requires good muscle strength. Many novice trekkers can find the trek quite challenging. To prepare for such challenges, trekkers must undertake exercises and training at least two months before their trek.
Cardio exercises such as running, jogging, hiking, swimming, and cycling help build strength, stamina, and endurance. Yoga is also helpful in boosting breathing techniques. It is beneficial when ascending to higher elevations with lower oxygen levels. You can also hire a trekking guide and porter to make your hike to Annapurna Base Camp more comfortable.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek also requires mental fitness. For mental preparation, trekkers can start by researching the trek, its routes, and its challenges. This gives them an idea of what to expect from the trek and builds mental resilience. The remote trails lack proper infrastructure, and no luxurious accommodations are available. Trekkers must also prepare to face the changing weather.
Comparison With Other Base Camp
So, how high is the Annapurna Base Camp compared to other popular trekking destinations in Nepal? In the table below, we have compared the maximum elevation and difficulty of Annapurna Base Camp with other trek destinations.
| Destination | Duration | Max altitude | Difficulty level |
| Annapurna Base Camp Trek | 12 days | 4130 meters | Moderate |
| Annapurna Circuit Trek | 14 days | 5416 meters | Strenuous |
| Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek | 6 days | 3210 meters | Easy |
| Mardi Himal Trek | 9 days | 4500 meters | Moderate |
| Everest Base Camp Trek | 12 days | 5545 meters | Moderate |
| Manaslu Circuit Trek | 14 days | 5160 meters | Strenuous |
| Kanchenjunga Trek | 24 days | 5143 meters | Strenuous |
Best Time For Annapurna Base Camp
Nepal has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The seasons hugely influence the weather and temperatures, influencing the trekking experience. The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is possible throughout the year. But spring and autumn have ideal weather conditions. It is possible to trek to the base camp in summer and winter, but the extreme weather makes it quite challenging. Here are the briefs of these two seasons:
Spring (March to May)
The spring season is one of the best and most favorable times for the trek. The weather is pleasant and warm, and the days are longer, brighter, and sunnier. Spring is also when the flora and fauna are the most active. The entire rhododendron forests and flower beds are in full bloom. Trekkers are also most likely to encounter rare wildlife like red pandas, musk deer, Himalayan monal, etc.
Aside from the great weather, precipitation is low during spring. Hence, the trails are dry, and there is no risk of landslides or mudslides. The visibility is also excellent. You can witness the gleaming mountain vistas in their full glory. The daytime temperature ranges around 15 to 20°C, while the nighttime temperature can drop up to 8°C.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another fine season for ABC Trek. The weather is crisp and mild, with clear skies. It is one of the most comfortable trekking seasons in Nepal. There are slight chances of rainfall during early September, but it ceases as the month progresses. The autumn foliage also adds to the beauty of the vibrant landscapes. Since the rainfall in the previous season cleanses the atmosphere and surroundings, the views are brilliant.
It is the best time to witness the stunning view of the Annapurna mountain ranges. Since autumn is also a harvest season, the biggest Nepalese festivals fall now. Thus, trekkers can enjoy the festive atmosphere along with the beautiful scenery. The average daytime temperature ranges between 12 and 20°C. Meanwhile, the nighttime temperature can range between 3 and 4°C.
Conclusion
By now, you should have the answer to the question of how high Annapurna Base Camp is and the importance of knowing its height. You can plan the itinerary for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek that suits you the best. Likewise, you can prepare physically and mentally to tackle any obstacles during the trek. Now that you understand the challenges of the trek, you can start the trek with full preparation.
My Everest Trip is the ultimate stop if you want to tour or trek in Nepal. We will do our best to provide you with the best trek experience. Visit our website or get in touch today directly for more information.
FAQs
Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?
The Annapurna Base Camp is a moderate trek that does not require prior experience or technical skills, so it is ideal for beginners. Similarly, no age restrictions exist, and anyone with reasonable fitness can take the trek. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the best options for beginners.
What is the difficulty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty is moderate and requires good health and fitness. The trails are physically demanding, as the trek leads to steep ascends and descends. Likewise, trekkers must walk 5 to 6 hours daily on varied terrains throughout the trek. It takes around 12 days to complete the trek.
What permits are necessary for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek requires a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card and an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project Entry Permit). Trekkers can obtain the permits via a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu or Pokhara. My Everest Trip’s 12-day ABC Trek includes the permits.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness during Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek journey, you get to an altitude of 4130 meters. Some trekkers can experience the symptoms of altitude sickness due to high altitude. Proper acclimatization is necessary to avoid the risk of altitude-related sickness.
What kind of accommodations can I expect during Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Along the routes of Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will usually find tea houses, lodges, guest houses, and homestays. These places offer basic facilities such as beds, blankets, and pillows. You must pay additional costs for other services like hot water/ shower, internet, and charging devices.
