Annapurna Trek: Guide and Porter Costs
Hiring a guide will cost you $30 daily, but the price can vary depending on the trekking area. A knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience, handle advanced booking and logistics, provide trek information, and make your trip more enjoyable. This is an excellent option for a well-rounded and enjoyable trekking experience. Generally, the porter will charge you $25 daily, but the price can vary depending on the trekking area. A porter can carry up to 30 kg of gear, allowing for easier trekking at higher altitudes. Hiring a porter will help to support the local economy and help the porter sustain their life.
Transportation Cost
Your journey starts when you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Your international airfare will depend on which country you are flying to Nepal from. Besides your international airfare, your cost depends on your chosen transportation. There are two means of transportation: air and road. Traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara by flight will cost between $180 and $248, but traveling by road will cost less. By road, you’ll find different buses, including the local bus, which costs the least.
You can also take a tourist bus, which is a bit more expensive than the local bus. For more comfort, you can take a luxury tourist bus or a jeep, which is comparatively costly but not as expensive as a flight.
Other Expenses
- Wi-Fi: USD 4.30 per day or per device
- Hot showers: USD 2.50-6.00
- Black tea: USD 0.45-1.50
- Milk tea: USD 0.70-2.00
- Hot choclate USD 1.30-3.00
- Coffee cup: USD 0.85-2.55
Annapurna Trekking Permit Cost
Regarding the permit cost, you will need two permits for Annapurna Trekking: the Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit and the TIMS (Tourist Information Management System Card).
TIMS is mandatory for trekking in Nepal. It is valid for one-time use only within the trekking region. However, you can use the same TIMS permit for multiple areas or when joining two or more areas. TIMS maintains records of trekkers and ensures their safety. It cost NPR 2000 per person.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is a must-have permit for anyone exploring the breathtaking Annapurna region of Nepal. This permit is valid for the entire Annapurna region, regardless of the duration of your stay. With a single ACAP permit, you can explore any part of the Annapurna region without making extra payments. It cost NPR 3000 per person.
Note: Both of these permits are valid for a single entry only. You cannot get a refund or transfer to other people.
But remember that you cannot get these permit cards without the following documents:
- Two passport-sized photos
- A copy of your passport
- Travel Insurance paper
- Entry and Exit points
- Itinerary/Route
- Emergency contact information
- Dates of your trek
Why is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek a must-do trek in 2025?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations. It is among the most commercialized trekking destinations, along with the Everest Base Camp Trek; however, there are many things to know about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The ABC trek has been open to the public for several years, but recently, trekkers have realized something new about it quite often. So let’s get into it.
Natural Experience
One particular thing about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is that it is full of amazing wonders. From the majestic Marshyangdi River to the giant Annapurna Massif, the Trek is full of stunning landmarks and places to explore, which are naturally beautiful.
Hot springs
One of the other major attractions the trekkers can enjoy during their expedition is soaking in the hot Springs. During their trekking adventure, they will reach a popular station in Jhinu Danda, renowned for its hot springs. After the long few weeks of trek, soaking in the hot, rejuvenating hot springs is the perfect way to relax your body. Furthermore, older people in the village also believe bathing in the hot springs cures the bones and joints of the aching body.
People and Culture
One of the other reasons for choosing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the chance to see the unique culture and traditions of the people living there. During the expedition, you will meet people from different cultures in Nepal, such as Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Lobas. Various groups of people in the area speak their languages and have their customs. Some people follow Hinduism, while others practice Buddhism. Many people mix these beliefs in their daily lives.
The Lakeside Town of Nepal
Pokhara is one of the prominent cities of Nepal, and over the years, it has gained a reputation for being one of the best tourist hubs. Often known as the lakeside town of Nepal due to its close boundary with the famous Fewa Lake, trekkers from around the world are attracted to the natural beauty of Pokhara.
There are many amazing tourist or trekking attractions in Pokhara, like Fewa Lake, Mahendra Cave, Bat Cave, Gupteshwor Cave, and Davis Falls. Trekkers can easily spend 3 to 5 days in Pokhara and explore the true natural beauty of this amazing town.
Annapurna Range
The Annapurna range is one of the most beautiful Himalayan ranges in Nepal. It is named after the Hindu goddess Annapurna, which means food and nourishment or fulfillment. The rivers that flow from the mountains create greenery and support plant life throughout the year in the lower plains. Annapurna is also considered one of the daughters of Himavat, the king of the mountains.
A Brief History of the Annapurna Range
The Annapurna Range holds a significant place in mountaineering history. In 1950, a French expedition led by Maurice Herzog achieved a groundbreaking feat by summiting Annapurna I, making it the first eight-thousand-meter peak to be conquered. This movement was a significant part of the history of mountaineering, and it started a trend for many adventure lovers exploring different Himalayan ranges worldwide.
The Annapurna range has many things that trekkers can see and admire. They can see stunning views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhualagiri, Fishtail, etc. Furthermore, the trekkers have different kinds of trekking packages to choose from, like Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal, etc.
Annapurna Sanctuary
The Annapurna Sanctuary is a high glacial area 40 km north of Pokhara. This oval-shaped plateau is over 4000 meters high and is surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range, with most peaks rising above 7000 meters. There is only one entrance, a narrow valley between the Hiunchuli and Machapuchare peaks. The glacial river flows into the Modi Khola River from this area. Outsiders did not explore the Sanctuary until 1956.
The Sanctuary is well known for its captivating encounters with diverse wildlife and the different kinds of vegetation spread across the region. It ranges from a subtropical climate with lush vegetation like Sal, Chir Pine, and rhododendrons to a temperate climate in which Pine, Oak, and more rhododendron forests thrive. Lastly, the sanctuary extends across alpine regions, which are colder and inhabited by junipers, rhododendrons, lichens, mosses, and more.
Like plants and vegetation, different species of animals are also spread around the region. Many common to rare endangered species of animals, like Snow leopards, Red Pandas, muskellunge, etc., are kept in the sanctuary. Bird watching is also a popular and common activity that trekkers enjoy while exploring the refuge. Over 474 birds, with diverse species like songbirds, ducks, and blood pheasants, are found in the conservation area.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route
The Annapurna trek starts when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The next day, you will enjoy a drive to Pokhara. After spending the night there, you will drive to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. From there, you will trek along the bank of the Burundi Khola to reach Tikhedhunga. The trail then climbs to the beautiful village of Ghorepani through Ulleri and Banthanti.
Before leaving Ghorepani village, you hike to Poon Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise. Later, drop down to Tadapani, trekking through forests of rhododendrons. From Tadapani, the trail descends steeply to Kim Rung Khola and crosses a suspension bridge; you climb to Chhomrong. Further, you walk through fine villages like Bamboo, Dovan, the Himalayas, and Deurali to reach Annapurna Base Camp.
After some time at the ABC, you take the same path to Jhinu Danda via Deurali. Jhinu Danda is known for its natural hot spring. Enjoy the hot spring before heading to Pothana. From Pothana, you go down to Phedi and drive back to Pokhara.
Annapurna Trek Distance
The ABC Trek distance from Nayapul to base camp and back is 110 km. This 110 kilometers will be covered in 9 trekking days, i.e., you will cover about 15 km daily. This means the trekkers need to walk for 6 to 7 hours. Covering such a distance daily in a complex mountain landscape demands a few months of cardio exercises and good strength. We can cover the Annapurna Base Camp Trek distance from place to place in a table. So let’s get into it.
| Day |
Place |
Altitude (m) |
Distance (km) |
| 1 |
Pokhara |
827 |
– |
| 2 |
Tikhedunga |
1560 |
7 |
| 3 |
Ghorepani |
2860 |
13 |
| 4 |
Tadapani |
2630 |
5 |
| 5 |
Chhomrong |
2170 |
5 |
| 6 |
Himalaya |
2902 |
7 |
| 7 |
Annapurna Base Camp |
4130 |
12 |
| 8 |
Bamboo |
2310 |
18 |
| 9 |
Jhinu Danda |
1780 |
5 |
| 10 |
Pothana |
1890 |
1 |
| 11 |
Pokhara |
1400 |
5 |
| 12 |
Kathmandu |
|
|
Distance from Pokhara
Pokhara, the lake city or gateway to the Annapurna region, is an attractive tourist hub in Nepal. The ABC trek starts from Nayapul, which is about 40 kilometers from Pokhara. When driving, it takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Nayapul from Pokhara. There are three options to reach Nayapul from Pokhara: private and public vehicles.
Choosing a private vehicle from Pokhara to Nayapul is wise as it is efficient, comforting, and not as expensive due to the shorter distance. Nayapul is located in the stunning Annapurna range, which provides magnificent scenery with breathtaking mountain beauty and the chance for vibrant cultural immersion.
Significant Highlights of Pokhara:
Phewa Lake: This picturesque lake is the heart of Pokhara, offering boating, paddleboarding, and stunning views of the Annapurna Range and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak.
Davis Falls: Davis Falls is another amazing highlight that trekkers can explore. It is a fantastic view of the strong, white waterfall falling from the rocky cliff and mixing with the river.
Accommodation Option For Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The journey generally begins in the city of Kathmandu. So, on the first day you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll stay in Kathmandu and have accommodation there. Accommodation costs depend on where you visit, either in an expensive or a budget hotel. A good range of hotels will fit your budget; you can choose from the most expensive hotels to mid-range and budget hotels in Kathmandu.
As you climb altitude and reach the barren, remote areas, your accommodation mode changes to the teahouse. The teahouses are tiny, wide homes with twin beds that you have to share with the other trekkers.
The teahouses have single rooms with attached bathrooms and twin beds, so you must share them with the rest of the trekkers. In the high-altitude tea house, you will get services like a huge dining room, internet connection, and a hot bath, but you may have to pay a certain amount.
Food options during the ABC Trek
Regarding meals, there would be a wide variety of food and beverages, as Kathmandu is the top tourist destination and the capital city of Nepal. Kathmandu serves local and international cuisines. The trekkers will have three daily meals in high altitudes: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The meals that you can get during your trek are tea, coffee, Chapati, Roti, Bread, Soups, pancakes, Thukpa, Local Nepali Dal, Bhat, Ghundruk, Dhindo, Dumplings, etc, and Western foods.
Transportation Option For the ABC Trek
Transportation is the primary aspect trekkers must consider while exploring the ABC trek. You will need to use modes of transport to explore the different types of routes. The trekkers need to board the modes of transportation as they travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Nayapul, Nayapul to Pokhara, and then Pokhara to Kathmandu. Here are some of the ways of transport that you will use during this trek.
Tourist Bus
You can travel by tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara or vice versa. Buses are much cheaper. Tourists find that the tourist buses are more comfortable and private than normal public buses. This journey is exciting for those who love scenic routes and are in Nepal for the first time. However, reaching the destination takes about seven to eight hours, which might be difficult for trekkers not used to the drive.
Private Car
Private cars are another option for transportation. You can take a private car from Kathmandu to Pokhara, return, and go from Pokhara to Nayapul. It is the second most expensive mode of transport, costing from $500 to $800 per car. However, it is also the quickest mode of transport, taking about half the time to get there compared to the tourist bus.
Flight
Flight is the most expensive mode of transportation, as it takes about 25 minutes to reach Kathmandu from Pokhara or when returning. It can cost about $500 to $1000 per person, depending on the season you have booked your trek.
Seasonal Guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Spring and autumn are the best times to venture to the Base Camp Trek. These two are the peak seasons for exploring the Annapurna region. The weather is usually stable during this time of the year, essential for a successful trek. Likewise, the climate is mostly moderate, and the views are phenomenal. The vegetation is also at its peak, and you will become part of vibrant festivals.
Spring Season
In Nepal, spring includes months from March to May. During these two months, hundreds of trekkers trekked around the Annapurna region, including the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The days are warm, with chilly mornings and nights. The lower area is more generous than the upper region. The average temperature during the Annapurna trek in April ranges from around ten °C to 0 °C. Especially in April, the route is covered with colorful rhododendrons, lush green vegetation, and other flora.
Autumn Season
September, October, and November are the months that fall under autumn in Nepal. This is the second-best time of year to traverse ABC. Just after the end of the monsoon, the trail is filled with a fresh, earthy smell, which makes the journey soothing. The average temperature ranges around 20 °C in the daytime and 5 °C at night. The best part of trekking in autumn is witnessing and becoming part of the biggest festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Chhat, etc.
Summer/Monsoon Season
July to August includes both summer and monsoon in Nepal. Even though summer is the best season to trek in the Himalayas, the monsoon ruins the journey with heavy rainfall and unclear views. Traveling in these months requires careful planning, yet a successful trek is not guaranteed. These are our least favorite months on the Base Camp trek. The trail also gets slippery and full of bugs, with temperatures between 5 °C and 23 °C.
Winter Season
Another season that is off for trekking in the Nepalese region is the winter season. The dynamic weather, freezing temperatures, and remote areas of the Annapurna region make the trek to ABC extremely tough in the high Himalayan hills. In the winter season, the chances of blizzards, snowstorms, and avalanches are expected, which is why the accommodations on the mountain are closed.
A Day in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an exciting adventure. A typical day involves exploring, meeting people, and visiting new places. The trek usually starts between 5 AM and 6 AM.
Morning
5 AM to 6 AM
You wake up early and get ready. Pack your gear for the day. After about half an hour, enjoy a delicious breakfast. Please don’t skip it, as breakfast gives you energy for the trek.
6 AM to 1 PM
After breakfast, you can start your trek. The weather is cool at first, but gets warmer as the day continues. Depending on the season, you may need rain gear. In spring, expect warm, sunny weather. Explore villages, ancient temples, monasteries, and caves during the trek. Talk with locals, learn about their culture, and try regional foods. After 6 to 7 hours of walking, it’s time for lunch.
Midday
1 PM to 2 PM
Here is lunchtime. After a long trek, it’s essential to eat energizing food. Your guide will take you to a local restaurant for Nepali or Thakali food, like rice, lentils, and vegetable curry. Take a break and listen to your body. After about an hour, continue your trek.
2 PM to 5 PM
In the afternoon, after lunch, you will continue your trek. The pace of the trek drops due to tiredness and a bit of humidity. You will continue trekking in the hills and ridges of the Annapurna region. The sun starts setting as time passes, so it’s time to move forward and reach the new teahouse before sunset.
Night
5 PM to 7 PM
Around 5 PM, arrive at the teahouse. Relax, freshen up, and explore the area. You can walk around the village to see attractions like restaurants, temples, and monasteries. In some villages, locals gather around the fire to sing, dance, and share stories. Feel free to join them.
7 PM to 8 PM
Dinner is served at the teahouse from 7 PM to 8 PM. You’ll find many options, including local Nepali dishes and Western items like pizzas and burgers. Eating healthy and carb-rich foods is a good idea, but don’t overeat, as it might make sleeping hard.
8 PM to 10 PM
Aim to go to sleep by 10 PM. Good sleep helps you feel refreshed for the next day. You’ll feel tired during the trek if you don’t get enough rest. The rooms provide plenty of bedding for a warm and comfortable sleep. This is the typical routine for a day on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
How Tough is the Journey to Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is among Nepal’s most common and accessible trekking destinations. However, it can prove to be a bit difficult for beginners. Certain factors make the ABC trek difficult, so let’s get into it.
Difficult Terrain
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers various landscapes. You will see everything from dry, subtropical areas to lush green forests, rocky peaks, and snowy mountains; each type of terrain provides a unique experience. However, these different landscapes can be challenging to trek. The trails have many ups and downs, with steep climbs and descents daily. Could you make sure you are physically fit to handle these rugged terrains?
Long Distance and Duration
The Annapurna Base Camp trek lasts 10 to 21 days or more. Each day, for about 6 to 7 hours. This trek can be tough because it requires a lot of energy and involves long walks you will trek f. Remember to take breaks to adjust to the higher altitudes. It’s essential to prepare and stay strong during your journey. Different Annapurna Base Camp trek packages vary in length.
Altitude Sickness
When the body cannot adjust to the low oxygen and atmospheric pressure in high-altitude mountains, you might become sick and experience altitude sickness. Also known as acute mountain sickness, this condition can impact numerous trekkers and mountaineers.
At an altitude of 3,000 meters, the oxygen level begins to decline. You should know the potential effects of altitude sickness. Common symptoms of altitude sickness are headaches, fatigue, Nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, inability to sleep, and loss of appetite.
What are the Remedies for Altitude Sickness?
Altitude Sickness is very tough to deal with during the high-altitude trek, so you must be prepared for its remedies. Here are some of the remedies for altitude sickness:
- You should limit how fast you ascend.
- You should sleep at a lower altitude.
- It would be best if you took rest days to acclimate.
- Medications like acetazolamide or nifedipine can prevent and treat altitude sickness.
Although the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is among the easiest treks in Nepal, trekkers still need to prepare for it. Preparing for any high-altitude trek in Nepal will make your adventure more accessible and help you deal with the various difficulties of the ABC trek. As a beginner, you must prepare even more for the trek to avoid problems. Here are some of the ways to prepare for the ABC trek.
Documents
To trek the short Annapurna base camp trek, you must possess specific permits, like a TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. So, before reaching the Annapurna region, you must know how to get these documents and what additional documents you must submit. You also need to pay a certain amount for the required permits.
Physical Preparation
Another preparation you need before heading out for the high-altitude trek is to increase your physical stamina and energy endurance. Could you ensure you are growing your cardio and also focus on building your strength? Preparing physically for your trek beforehand will help you overcome the physical difficulties of the ABC trek.
Mental Preparation
Another way to prepare for the ABC trek is by being mentally fit. Please make sure you expect the ABC trek to be challenging and that you face adversities during the high-altitude trek. Before reaching a high altitude, you must focus on breathing by getting involved in meditation and yoga. So, you can control your breathing during high altitudes, making your mentality even stronger.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is an essential document every trekker must have before heading out for high-altitude trekking like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Travel insurance creates a safety and security bracket regarding emergency medical conditions and prevents you from incurring unnecessary medical expenses.
I want to point out that medical expenses in Nepal are high. Furthermore, if the trekkers need a helicopter rescue, it alone can cost over $5000, and the rescue team will not operate until the fee is paid. You must have travel insurance that covers health care and helicopter evacuation up to 4,000 meters. Please check with your insurer to ensure your insurance includes emergency helicopter evacuations.
Communication and Internet Facilities During the ABC Trek
Communication is one of the essential aspects of the ABC trek. The trekkers are often in the high Himalayas, in freezing temperatures, with remote facilities, which may make them homesick. Hence, communicating with your loved ones daily and updating them about your condition is essential. It is also important to communicate with the trekking agency in Kathmandu.
Three mobile networks, NTC, Ncell, and Smart Mobile Network, provide communication services to trekkers at high altitudes. Trekkers can buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu, but the signal might be weak at higher altitudes. Trekkers can contact their trekking teams by phone through their guides at least once a day. The guides are always ready for emergencies, even at higher altitudes.
Thanks to our digital world, there is internet access in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. However, there are limited internet options along the trek. Offer Wi-Fi and mobile data coverage, which is available in certain areas.
However, the connection can be weak and may drop anytime during your hike. The higher the trekkers reach, the lower the quality of the internet becomes. Furthermore, you might get a WIFI connection in some teahouses, but you may have to pay a bit extra.
IS Annapurna Base Camp Trek Safe For Beginners?
Yes, ABC Trek is safe for beginners. It is one of the most accessible trekking destinations, where most trekkers pass through easy routes until they reach remote villages and settlements. The ABC trek is known as user-friendly. The trails are well established, there are proper tea houses, and the trek guides operating in the area are also well-experienced.
However, beginners need to make proper planning and preparation to make the trek even safer. A high-altitude trek invites the chance of altitude sickness, which can be prevented by proper acclimatization and hydration. Moreover, physical training and building stamina or endurance are also essential to protect yourself from injury, fatigue, or illness throughout the trek.
Everest Base Camp (EBC) vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) | Which to Opt
Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks are two of the most popular treks in Nepal. Hence, there is always a dilemma about which trekking destination is better and more attractive. Several factors make these two treks comparable. So let’s get into it.
Trek Duration
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is about 110km, whereas the EBC trek is about 130km. The ABC trek is shorter as trekkers have to climb lower altitudes. The average duration of the ABC trek is about 10 days, whereas the EBC trek lasts about 16 days.
Accessibility
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is easier to access than the EBC trek. You can reach the Annapurna region by land. However, getting to the Everest region by land is tough, so often, trekkers board flights to Lukla either from Kathmandu or Ramechhap. Hence, if you’re looking for a high-altitude but accessible trek, then the ABC trek is the one to choose.
Budget Friendly
The ABC trek is more budget-friendly than the EBC trek. This is mainly because of the lower altitude and the shorter duration, as transportation, meals, and accommodation are cheaper in the ABC than in the Everest region.
Difficulty level
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is 4,130 meters. This is the highest point you will reach during the ABC trek. In comparison, Everest Base Camp is at 5,364 meters, and the highest point of the Everest trek is 5,555 meters at Kala Patthar Viewpoint. Most trekkers go to Kala Patthar for stunning views in the early morning. Treks above 5,000 meters are generally more difficult. Therefore, Everest Base Camp treks are more challenging than Annapurna Base Camp. Higher altitudes mean less oxygen, making hikes more tiring. The temperature also drops at higher elevations.
ACT vs. ABC Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek and ABC Trek are the two most popular treks in the Annapurna Region, with their merit and demerits.
| Annapurna Circuit (ACT) Trek |
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What would you like to pack for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
Below is the list of things you will need during the trek. We also offer a printable checklist for the Annapurna Trek Packing list while traveling with us.
Headwear
- Sun cap / Woolen hat
- Sunglasses
- Neck warmer / Neck gaiter
- Headscarf
- Balaclava
Bodywear
- Waterproof jacket
- Lightweight thermal tops
- Fleece Pullover or Jacket
- Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt
- Down jacket
- Soft jacket
Handwear
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight gloves
Bodywear
- Hiking pants
- Underwear
- Fleece pants
- Light thermal trousers
- Hiking shorts
Footwear
- Trekking boots
- Cotton socks
- Hiking socks
- Running shoes
Trekking Equipment and Gears
- Trekking backpack
- Trekking poles
- Head torch with extra batteries
- Water bottle
- Sleeping bag
- Water purification
Toiletries
- Drying towel
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Biodegradable bar soap
- Nail clippers
Extra items
- Travel documents
- First aid kits
Things to Know
Money Exchange
Before booking the ABC trek, knowing about the Nepalese currency and the country’s current exchange rate is essential. The exchange rate is about USD 1 = NPR 133. It is recommended that major currencies be brought and exchanged for Nepali rupees in Kathmandu. Legal currency exchanges are available in Thamel for a quick and easy experience. ATMs are also available, but be aware that withdrawal fees may apply. If you have Indian Rupees, only INR 100 notes are accepted in Nepal.
Travel Visa
All foreigners, except Indians, need a visa to enter Nepal. Most people can get a visa at Kathmandu airport or immigration checkpoints along the borders. You will need a valid passport for at least six months, two passport-sized photos, and a visa fee. A 30-day visa costs approximately 5,000 NPR. For more details, you can visit https://www.immigration.gov.np/.
Is the Solo Annapurna Base Camp Trek possible?
The ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) trek, a renowned Himalayan adventure, has recently been subject to new regulations that significantly impact solo travelers. The Nepal Tourism Board has implemented a rule mandating that a licensed guide or porter accompany all foreign trekkers. This decision was made to enhance safety concerns and to support the local economy.
Some reasons for banning solo travel came into play, as it increased safety and provided earning opportunities to guides and porters. At first, the ban on solo travel impacted the demand for the trek, and visitors decreased, but over the past few years, it has recovered a bit. Furthermore, the availability of group discounts has also attracted trekkers to visit ABC in groups. MyEverestTrip has also been providing a vital group discount, enabling you to enjoy the ABC trek at an affordable fee with your friends or family.
Alternative Treks in the Annapurna Region of Nepal
There are a few alternatives to the ABC trek. They are Annapurna Circuit Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and Mardi Himal Trek. So let’s take a look at some of the factors that you can take into consideration.
Cost Factor
Annapurna Circuit Trek is more expensive than the Ghorepani and Mardi Himal Treks. This is due to its longer duration and higher altitude, which increases the cost of other expenses like transportation, accommodation, and meals.
Accessibility Factor
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is more accessible than the Mardi Himal trek, ACT, or ABC trek. It requires less physical strain on your body, whereas the Annapurna Circuit trek is more challenging than the other treks. The Mardi Himal trek is more complicated than the Poon Hill trek but is more accessible than the ABC or the ACT trek.
Duration
The ACT trek has more trekking duration, which lasts from 12 days to 15 days, whereas the Poon Hill trek lasts from 5 to 10 days. The Mardi Himal trek lasts about 7 to 11 days, and the ABC trek lasts about 10 to 12 days.
Why Choose MyEverestTrip?
My Everest Trip is among the reputable trekking agencies in Nepal. We have some fantastic and exciting features that are bound to attract tourists visiting Nepal.
Airport Pickup and Drop-off
Hassle-free travel from the moment you land in Nepal. Our representative will help you board your hotel and return to the hotel during your departure.
Safety first
MyEverstTrip’s priority is always your safety. They have experienced personnel and guides whose mission is for you to enjoy the stunning Annapurna region while being safe and secure.
Best Experience
The services trekkers receive from MyEverestTrip are among the best. They guarantee the best services trekkers will find anywhere in Nepal. The trekkers can choose from different types of services, including trek, tour, helicopter tour, Overland tour, and motorcycle tour.
Last Minute Booking
MyEverestTrip offers a convenient last-minute booking option for spontaneous travelers. Even if you have not planned your trip, you can still embark on an unforgettable adventure by booking your trek just a few days before departure. Their experienced team will immediately respect your request and quickly arrange all the details, including booking accommodation, guides, and permits, to give you the best experience.
Customizable itineraries
MyEverestTrip offers customizable itineraries that match your interests and preferences. Whether you’re an experienced trekker looking for a challenge or a beginner wanting an easy walk, their team can create a trip just for you. You can pick from popular trekking routes like Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley, or choose unique off-the-beaten-path trails. You will get the chance to change the duration of the trek, the side trips, and the day-to-day activities during your trek.
Experienced Guides and Porters
Another primary reason for choosing MyEverestTrip is the chance to work with experienced guides and professional porters. Guides help with navigation, safety, and security, whereas porters help carry heavy luggage from teahouse to teahouse.
Eco Trekking and Sustainability on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp trek combines adventure with eco-friendly practices, protecting nature and preserving local culture. MyEverestTrip promotes sustainability through eco-friendly accommodations and minimal-impact trekking. Engaging with local communities supports traditions and fosters meaningful connections. Trek responsibly and be part of a sustainable future in the Himalayas.
Why the 12-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek May Be Better for You
The Himalayan region has no shortage of treks for all tastes and types of travelers. The caveat is that they are not always accessible to everyone and have different physical readiness requirements, altitudes, and costs. The Annapurna Base Camp trek for 12 days is your best bet if:
- You are a beginner or intermediate trekker. The ABC trek is less arduous than other high-altitude routes and journeys. If you’re taking your first steps in the Himalayas, it may be safer and easier for you. Still, you should never underestimate this trek or consider it a walk in the park. All trekkers must have great fitness and endurance to do the Annapurna hike.
- You want to take your kids with you. Aiming for extensive treks to get your little ones into this natural hobby is a bad idea. The short ABC route is more suitable for this purpose and can be conquered by teens. However, you must ensure your kids are in good shape to face the challenge of ABC trekking for 12 days, covering 100+ km, and dealing with altitudes of over 4000m.
- You are looking for spectacular scenery. Our itinerary allows you to witness the natural beauty intrinsic to the Annapurna region in all its glory. The eye-catchers during this trip include lush hills, alpine meadows, rice fields, marvelous forest trails, and Annapurna mountain views that will take your breath away in a flash. There’s an abundance of Instagram-worthy spots to capture this scenery.
- You are not into crammed experiences. Even if you go for it in the hottest season, this 12-day Annapurna Base Camp trek will be less crowded than the EBC. It’s better for a more peaceful, down-to-earth experience. Book our program in the off-season if you want to trek with as few people as possible.
At My Everest Trip, we are licensed to organize Annapurna trekking in Nepal for adults and teens. We’ll cover the legally required guidance and ensure you get the “WOWs” you’ve come to Nepal for.
ABC Trek Costs
My Everest Trip’s commitment to fair pricing for all travelers is absolute. We do not charge foreign trekkers more for no reason.
The total cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek may differ for enthusiasts from other countries. The discrepancies can be explained by the lower rates that Nepalese people qualify for to obtain the TIMS card and the ACAP. As a foreign citizen, you should also plan for visa-related expenses before you arrive in Kathmandu (neither visa nor insurance costs are included in this program).
Other reasons foreigners may need to pay more for a 12-day Annapurna Base Camp trek involve the rates charged by local service providers. While our fees are fixed, local teahouse providers or other establishments may mark up the cost of products or services not included in this itinerary.
