Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Introduction
The Himalayas have really bestowed itself upon Nepal. India, Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal being few among the Himalayan countries have some of the greatest of all time treks. Specifically talking about Nepal, the country is diverse in its landscapes, culture, religion, language and in its trek trails. One of the main reasons why Nepal attracts tourists from all around the globe is its exceptionally beautiful treks and for being a home to the world’s tallest mountain, Mt. Everest and Annapurna base camp trek.
Why Annapurna Base camp trek is so popular?
Annapurna Base Camp trek is popular among the trekkers and mountaineers across the world. The Annapurna base camp takes to a whopping height of 8000m above the sea level. There are dynamic trek trails and landscapes enroute the base camp which truly display the diversity of the Himalayas. The views of not only Annapurna peaks but also the neighboring peaks in the area like; Machapuchare, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli are breathtaking. The ABC trek lasts for 10 days and ranges from moderate to difficult level.
How to prepare yourself for the trek?
There are certain things you need to prepare yourself about this trek. This is no surprise that Annapurna Base camp trek ranks in the eight thousands club which is a drastic height to accomplish on foot. Naturally, your body needs to prepare for such drastic heights and adapt to the exhaustion you are going to have from trekking every day for 10 days straight. You need to train yourself everyday for months and run laps and record your time and speed. Build your muscles, especially legs and increase your stamina. Go to the gym, do what you need to do to maintain a healthy strong body, which is fit to climb ABC. you are going to cover 7-9 km per day hence your legs need to be fit and healthy. Also, plan your trip wisely as the plane tickets can be the biggest crunch in your budget.
Your journey begins from Pokhara and here is a brief itinerary describing you route for the trek;
Day1 :
Reach Pokhara by evening and meet the group for orientation and debriefing about the trek.
Day2 :
Depart for Ghandruk/Kimche from Pokhara which is about 55 km away. Then carry on to Komrung from Kimche.
Day3 :
Komrung to Chomrung
Day4 :
Chomrung to Dovan. This is the place from where the trek gets exciting.
Day5 :
Dovan to Machapuchare Base Camp. A breathtaking trek
Day6 :
Machapuchare Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp.
Day7 :
Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo. A trek of 15 km lasting for 8-9 hours.
Day8 :
Bamboo to Jhinu. The descent starts
Day9 :
Jhinu to Pokhara. Goodbye to the most spectacular trek of your life.
Day10 :
it is an extra day that every trek in the Himalayas has. This is an extra day in case of emergencies or unfavorable weather conditions.
Cost of the trek
The cost of the trek to ABC is on an average Rs. 29,950 per person. The cost of the extra day in the itinerary is not included in the above-given cost. The cost includes accommodation, transport, meals, and forest area charges which include registration fees and permits.
What you can do Other than the trek
Along with the adventure in the Himalayas, you also get to shop, interact and experience the authentic Nepali culture and cuisine. Visit the local markets, and villages and buy souvenirs for your loved ones. The most astonishing thing about the trek to ABC is how diverse and dynamic the landscape is en route. The trek trail goes from thick dense forest to snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and huge boulders.
What to carry
Make sure you carry minimum luggage as much as possible as it will be carried by you for 10 days non stop throughout the trek. It is mandatory to go on this trek with trained professionals and expert local who will navigate the trek. When during trek, make sure to carry a high altitude first aid kit, oximeters, oxygen cylinders, trekking gears etc. Take playing cards or a book with you to spend time while resting. Bond with you fellow trekkers, share stories and experiences as these 10 days will be the most life altering period of your lives.
Conclusion
The Annapurna base camp trek is often included in the bucket list of trekkers all around the world. The intimidating and challenging nature of ABC provokes the enthusiasm in the trekkers and a fire in them to complete the trek once in their lives. ABC is one of those ‘once in a lifetime treks’ like Mt. Everest. Climbing ABC is an achievement in itself. The hard work behind it and the trek alone is a challenging task altogether, finishing it does compel you to pat yourself on the back.
