Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary Preparation and Tips

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Activities: Airport pick-up and transfer to hotel, pre-trek briefing in the evening.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Drive to Pokhara

• Drive Time: 6-7 hours.
• Activities: Scenic drive to Pokhara, leisure time in the evening to explore Lakeside.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara.

Day 3: Drive to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga

• Drive Time: 1-1.5 hours.
• Trekking Time: 3-4 hours.
• Altitude: Tikhedhunga (1,540m).
• Accommodation: Tea house in Tikhedhunga.

Day 4: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours.
• Altitude: Ghorepani (2,860m).
• Accommodation: Tea house in Ghorepani.

Day 5: Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani

• Trekking Time: 6-7 hours (including Poon Hill visit).
• Altitude: Poon Hill (3,210m); Tadapani (2,630m).
• Accommodation: Tea house in Tadapani.

Day 6: Tadapani to Chhomrong

• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours.
• Altitude: Chhomrong (2,170m).
• Accommodation: Tea house in Chhomrong.

Day 7: Chhomrong to Himalaya

• Trekking Time: 6-7 hours.
• Altitude: Himalaya (2,920m).
• Accommodation: Tea house in Himalaya.

Day 8: Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp

• Trekking Time: 6-7 hours.
• Altitude: Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m); ABC (4,130m).
• Accommodation: Tea house at ABC.

Day 9: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo

• Trekking Time: 7-8 hours.
• Altitude: Bamboo (2,310m).
• Accommodation: Tea house in Bamboo.

Day 10: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (Hot Springs)

• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours.
• Altitude: Jhinu Danda (1,760m).
• Activities: Enjoy the hot springs.
• Accommodation: Tea house in Jhinu Danda.

Day 11: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara

• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours to Nayapul.
• Drive Time: 1-1.5 hours to Pokhara.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara.

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu

• Drive Time: 6-7 hours.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

• Activities: Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Key Inclusions

• All local transfers in Nepal as per the itinerary, including private vehicle to and from Pokhara.
• Accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and tea houses during the trek.
• All meals during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• Experienced English-speaking guide and porter services (with a porter to client ratio of 1:2).
• Annapurna Conservation Area permit and TIMS card.
• First aid and emergency arrangements.
• Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.

Pricing

• For a premium service, including all the above inclusions, prices typically range from $1,200 to $2,000 per person. This price range accounts for the level of accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, the guide-to-client ratio, and additional services such as private porters, upgraded meals during the trek, and any extra activities or sightseeing tours in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Preparation and Tips

1. Fitness Preparation: The ABC Trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical condition. Clients should focus on cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and regular hiking to build stamina and prepare for the trek's demands. Incorporating hikes with elevation gain and carrying a backpack will simulate the trek conditions.
2. Altitude Acclimatization: The trek reaches altitudes of over 4,000 meters, where the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) increases. It's essential to follow the itinerary's acclimatization days and ascend gradually. Advise clients to monitor themselves for symptoms of AMS and communicate any concerns with their guide.
3. Gear and Clothing: Recommend a comprehensive packing list that includes:Warm clothing layers for cold mornings and evenings, including a down jacket, fleece layers, and thermal underwear.
   • Waterproof and sturdy hiking boots that are well broken-in to prevent blisters.
   • A quality sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C, especially during the colder months.
   • Sun protection, including sunscreen with high SPF, lip balm with sunblock, sunglasses with UV protection, and a sun hat.
   • A reliable headlamp, spare batteries, a water purification method (tablets or a water filter), and a durable daypack.‍
4. Travel Insurance: Stress the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking up to 5,000 meters, including emergency evacuation and medical expenses.‍
5. Vaccinations and Health Check: Encourage clients to consult with a healthcare provider for a pre-trek check-up and to get advice on necessary vaccinations.

Additional Tips

• Hydration: Advise drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and help mitigate the effects of altitude.
• Cultural Respect: Inform about respecting local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly, removing shoes before entering homes and temples, and asking permission before taking photos of people.
• Environmental Responsibility: Emphasize the importance of minimizing environmental impact by packing out all trash, using biodegradable soap, and avoiding single-use plastics.
• Nutrition: Encourage eating a balanced diet during the trek. The lodges provide a variety of meals, and it's crucial to consume sufficient calories to maintain energy levels.
• Mental Preparedness: Prepare for the physical and mental challenges of the trek. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and being mentally prepared for such variations is crucial.
• Safety and Communication: Stress the importance of staying with the group and maintaining open communication with the guide, especially regarding health issues or concerns.
• Smart Packing: Pack light, focusing on essentials. Layering is key to managing changing temperatures. Waterproof bags or covers are recommended to protect gear from rain.
• Local Currency: Ensure carrying enough Nepalese Rupees in smaller denominations, as ATMs are not available beyond Pokhara, and card transactions may not be accepted in many places.