Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the classic treks in Nepal without a doubt. Naturally ornamented with diverse landscapes, vegetation, and Himalayan vistas, and rich in culture, ABC Trek is an iconic Trek in the Annapurna Region. It is a trekking paradise for those who want to stand tall at the foothill of the 10th highest peak in the world, Annapurna (8091m). The Annapurna Base Camp lies at an altitude of 4130 meters. It is popular among both experienced and novice trekkers. However, before departing on this trek, it is very crucial to be aware of the difficulties you may face. Nevertheless, with proper planning, preparation, and health conditions, anyone can achieve this trip successfully.

How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The highest point of ABC Trek is 4130 meters at Base Camp. The ABC Trekking route is Nepal's most popular trekking trail after Everest Base Camp Trek. However, ABC Trek is considered as a moderate grade of difficulty compared to EBC Trek.Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is popular among beginners, solo trekkers, experienced ones, and even group trekkers as well. Diverse landscapes, rugged trails, changing vegetation, and rich Gurung culture, make ABC Trek a lifetime experience. However, to make your trek more enjoyable and achievable, you need patience. Therefore, with slow and steady peace having a little bit of patience, you can complete this trek without any extreme difficulties.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance is one of the major aspects that determines Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty. You will cover approximately 116 KM throughout this trek. The distance of the trek is very short compared to other trekking like Annapurna Circuit Trek,Manaslu Circuit Trek, EBC Trek, and many others. Experienced trekkers can cover 15-20 Km per day on average on this trek. However, beginners have to cover 10-12 Km per day on average to complete this trek successfully. If you are a novice trekker then always go for an 11-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

How long is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Generally, trekking to Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes 11-14 days. However, if you are short of time, 8-10 days are enough to complete this trek. Nevertheless, the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be challenging and physically demanding. Trekkers need to walk 6-7 hours a day covering 12-15 Km. Walking long distances in less time can lead you fatigue or even altitude sickness problems. Therefore, as a novice trekker, always choose long trekking packages.

Altitude sickness during Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Another determining factor of Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty is Altitude sickness. There is always a risk of Altitude sickness aka Acute Mountain Sickness during high altitude trek. Almost the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary starts from Kathmandu at 1400 m of elevation. Therefore, walking up to 4130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp within a week can hit you with Altitude sickness. The common symptoms of Altitude Sickness you can feel during the trek are:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Short of Breathe
• Loss of appetite

Before it gets worse, always inform your guide about your problem. Communication is key when you start feeling the symptoms of altitude sickness. Moreover, proper acclimatization is necessary before you gain more altitude during the trek.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Weather

Annapurna Base Camp Weather is another determining aspect of Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty level. The weather in the Himalayas always depends on the different seasons. During the Winter Season, the temperature remains between 8 to -20 degrees Celsius. The weather at the Base Camp is unbearable which makes ABC Trek more difficult. Likewise, most of the teahouses in higher elevations are closed during the winter season. Furthermore, the time of monsoon also can be troublesome because of heavy rainfall and muddy trails. The temperature remains between 4 to 19 degrees Celsius during the Monsoon.

So, when is the best time to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek? The months of autumn and spring are considered the best time for ABC Trek. These two seasons offers perfect weather with mild temperature. You can see the clear views of mountains in the open blue sky.

Things to know before the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Here we have provided some of the tips and guidance before you trek to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

• Take rest from time to time while walking. Keep your walking pace slow and steady.
• Focus on drinking plenty of water. Drink at least 4-5 liters of water in a day.
• Prepare yourself physically and mentally. Cardio and strength exercises before the trek helps a lot.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol as much as you can throughout the trek.
• Be aware of the food and drinks you consume in the teahouses.
• Acclimatize properly.
• Use your trekking gear and equipment appropriately.
• Carry your first aid kit and necessary prescribed medications.
• Hire a guide or porter from a trusted trekking agency.
• Keep up to date about the weather before you proceed the next day of your trek.
• Inform your guide or porter if you feel signs and symptoms of Altitude sickness.
• Choose the best time to do the trek.

Is ABC Trek Suitable for you?

Well, if you want to plan trekking in Nepal, and explore the Himalayas, then trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is the best option. Despite all the difficulties, the ABC trek offers magnificent views of Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Mt. Fishtail, and Mt. Makalu. Apart from towering peaks, natural and cultural beauty provides you with a lifetime experience in the Annapurna Region. Therefore, if you are physically and mentally sound with enough time, this trek is suitable for you.

Classic Trek Nepal organizes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary for our valuable clients forecasting the client’s time and safety. Our experienced and government-licensed holder guide will make sure that you will have a joyful trek with us. Moreover, with many years of experience in the Annapurna region, our guide will always assist you with any difficulties. Therefore, if you are planning to do any kind of trek in the Annapurna Region, pleasecontact us.