The Annapurna Base Camp is never Easy. It is the trek that takes us to the 10th highest peak in the world. The ABC trek involves lots of twists and turns and ups and downs. However, when you walk over the tedious stone-paved steps, it also adds adventure to your whole trek.
We, Nepal Base Camp Treks Pvt. Ltd offers a slew of outstanding and budget-friendly Annapurna Base camp package(s) tailored to meet the demands of every travel enthusiast. Our treks will be conducted with experienced trekkers who have visited this region several times. Using that knowledge, they will systematically plan the trek. They look after accommodations, travel, food, and the trekking routes. They ensure everyone in the group gets an experience of a lifetime.
Although demanding, if you have a strong, fit body and a positive mindset- you can visit it and experience the regal beauty of this place.
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How Difficult Is The ABC Trek?
Located at an altitude of 4130 meters, the Annapurna Base Camp trek has numerous challenges. It is moderately difficult, and grades are 7 out of 10. This means that with a good level of fitness, you can complete the trek and be safe in the Annapurna Region.
You will come across plenty of variations in the weather and temperature. The higher you reach, the thinner the air gets. With that, you must also trek through the strenuous uphill route. As you reach an altitude of 2500m, there is a high chance that you will show signs of altitude sickness. However, for those who are both physically and mentally strong, a word of advice is not to drink alcohol during your trek. Also, avoid sleeping pills.
The Annapurna Base Camp covers an approximate distance of 115km and takes 10-14 days to complete. Each day, you must walk 10-20 km (give or take). Furthermore, you will encounter long and steep 3,300 stone stairs, which involve a different level of complication. Most first-time trekkers experience exhaustion during the trek, and to overcome this difficulty, you need to trek wisely. Don’t try to overdo the walks. Consume a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Be aware of your limits, and don’t waste too much energy as you continuously trek those rough and rugged trails.
If this is your first ABC trek, we recommend opting for longer packages. This will allow you time to get ample rest and enjoy the trek to the fullest. We suggest you perform some physical exercises and training prior to the trek.
Detail On Factors Causing Difficulty for ABC Trek
Distance and Altitude
One of the major factor for the increase in difficulty grade of the trek is its distance and elevation. The trek covers over 115 kilometers in total. Thus, it requires a continuous coverage of 10 to 20 kilometers daily. Although the trek distance is short compared to Annapurna Circuit trek, its rugged terrain and diverse landscapes add some difficulty.
Nestled at an altitude of 4130 meters, altitude can be another difficulty in your trekking journey. The high altitude can cause altitude sickness. The decrease in air level at higher altitudes can create shortness of breath, headache, loss of appetite, and dizziness among the trekkers. Such problems can make your overall trip quite challenging.
Long Duration
If you are trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, you should know that it takes around 11 to 14 days to complete. If you want to complete it in short days, you can also finish it in about 8 to 10 days. However, it is also considered a little long compared to the 4 to 5 day trekking route in Nepal.
Not only that, but the continuous week-long trek also demands 7 to 8 hours of walking daily. This can be one reason for the increase in the difficulty level of your trek. If you are not used to walking continuously and have never gone hiking, this can be a huge problem, sometimes leading to anxiety.
The Trekking Trial
Although the Annapurna Base Camp is not hard as the Everest Base Camp trek, its continuous up and down can create difficulty among the trekkers. Making your way through the trail, you need to pass through twists and turns, rocky boulders, and steep stone steps. The trek may not require good fitness level, but it is important for you to have stamina and have some level of endurance.
One of the major difficulties is walking over 3300 stone steps. To overcome this trekking trial, you should be in good physical condition. For further safety, we recommend you keep a slow pace. Also, you can encounter dangerous wild animals like snow leopards or bears on the trail. These animals can also be life-threatening.
Weather and Temperature
Another difficulty includes unpredictable weather and unstable temperatures across the trail. Making your way up the high altitude in the Himalayas, you should know that the weather keeps on changing. This could be another problem for the trekkers. The continuous up-and-down degrees, along with rain and snow, can create huge problems during the trek.
The temperature on the trail can range between 9.3°C/48.74°F and -20°C/-4°F. The weather is most favorable during spring and autumn. Sometimes, the cold can become unbearable. We highly recommend that you do not make your trek in Summer and Winter. These two seasons have the most unfavorable weather conditions, creating a huge level of risk. Sometimes, it can be life-threatening.
Packing Gear List
If you are planning for your trip to Annapurna Base Camp, there are certain things you need to be prepared for. Always carry all the essentials, and make a packing checklist. Here’s what you can pack to have a safe trek towards ABC:
- Backpack (50-70 liters)
- Trekking boots
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Fleece Jacket
- Trekking pants
- Gloves
- Wollen hats
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Sleeping bags
- Daypack (20-30 liters)
- Treeking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Reusable water bottle
- First aid kit
- Personal hygiene items
- Snacks and energy bars
When Should You Take This Trek?
The best time to embark on this wonderful yet difficult trek is probably in autumn (between September and November). During this phase, you will get a stable climate, crystal clear views, and washed trails (due to the monsoon rains).
But if this period is not convenient for you, then the second peak time to embark on this wonderful trek is between the months (March and May). You will get a wide variety of vibrant Magnolia, Rhododendron, and other Alpine blooms.
Furthermore, planning your trek during the Spring will allow you to get a clear glimpse of popular mountain peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and more.
If you want to take part in this remarkable expedition, call 977-9851111874/ 977-9745152385 to learn the cost of each Annapurna base camp trek and its specific duration.
