ABC Trek

Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070m) – Tikhedhunga (1,570m)

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and then begin the trek to Tikhedhunga. The trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola river and passes through beautiful villages and forests.

Day 2: Tikhedhunga (1,570m) – Ghorepani (2,860m)

Trek through the dense rhododendron forest to reach the village of Ghorepani. This is one of the most popular stops on the trek, known for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 3: Ghorepani (2,860m) – Poon Hill (3,210m) – Tadapani (2,610m)

Early morning hike to Poon Hill to catch the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue the trek to Tadapani.

Day 4: Tadapani (2,610m) – Chomrong (2,170m)

Descend through the dense forest and cross the Chomrong Khola river to reach Chomrong village. From here, you’ll get the first close-up view of the Annapurna South and Hiunchuli peaks.

Day 5: Chomrong (2,170m) – Dovan (2,600m)

Trek through the Modi Khola valley and pass through the villages of Sinuwa and Bamboo to reach Dovan. The trail is surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls.

Day 6: Dovan (2,600m) – Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m) – Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)

The trail climbs steadily through the Modi Khola valley to reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp and then continues to the Annapurna Base Camp. This is the highlight of the trek, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range.

Day 7: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) – Bamboo (2,300m)

Descend through the Modi Khola valley and retrace your steps back to Bamboo.

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

ABC trek Location

The ABC trek, or Annapurna Base Camp trek, is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It begins in Nayapul and takes hikers through stunning landscapes and charming villages before reaching the Annapurna Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).

Recommended equipment for ABC trek

Here’s a list of recommended equipment for the ABC trek:

• Good quality hiking boots with ankle support
• Warm clothing layers, including a down jacket and fleece or wool sweater
• Rain jacket and pants or a poncho
• Hiking pants (convertible pants are a good option)
• Base layer tops and bottoms made of moisture-wicking material
• Warm hat and gloves
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Sunscreen with high SPF
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Water bottles or hydration system (with a minimum capacity of 2 liters)
• Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures (0 to -10 degrees Celsius)
• Daypack or backpack (with a capacity of at least 30 liters)
• Personal first aid kit with medications for altitude sickness, pain relief, and gastrointestinal issues
• Toiletries and personal hygiene items (including wet wipes and hand sanitizer)
• Snacks (such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit)
• It’s important to keep in mind that the weight of your backpack should not exceed 15-20% of your body weight. Also, it’s recommended to pack light and avoid unnecessary items.

Altitude sickness and how to prevent it 

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common condition that can occur when trekking at high altitudes. It is caused by the decreased air pressure and lower oxygen levels at higher elevations. Here are some tips to prevent altitude sickness during the ABC trek:

• Gradual ascent: It is recommended to ascend gradually, taking time to acclimatize to the higher elevation. This means not gaining more than 300-400 meters (1000-1300 feet) in altitude per day.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and fluids to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration, which can worsen AMS symptoms.
• Rest: Take plenty of rest breaks along the way, especially if you feel short of breath or dizzy.
• Medications: Some medications, such as acetazolamide, can help prevent and treat altitude sickness. Consult with your doctor before taking any medication.
• Diet: Avoid alcohol, smoking, and high-fat foods during the trek, as they can worsen AMS symptoms.
• Oxygen: In case of severe AMS symptoms, supplemental oxygen can be used to relieve symptoms and aid in recovery.
• Descend: If AMS symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to descend to a lower altitude and seek medical help if necessary.

It’s important to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness, which include headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. If you experience any of these symptoms, take appropriate measures to prevent the condition from worsening.

Weather and climate in the Annapurna region

The Annapurna region in Nepal experiences a wide range of weather and climate conditions depending on the time of year and altitude.

During the summer months of June to August, the Annapurna region experiences the monsoon season, with heavy rainfall and high humidity. This can make trekking difficult, with trails becoming slippery and muddy. However, the countryside is lush and green, with beautiful waterfalls and blooming flowers.

From September to November, the weather is usually clear and dry, making it the best time to trek in the Annapurna region. The days are warm and sunny, with cool temperatures at night. This is also a popular time for trekking, so the trails can be busy.

From December to February, the Annapurna region experiences cold and dry weather, with occasional snowfall. Trekking during this time can be challenging due to the cold temperatures and snow on the trails.

March to May is another popular time to trek in the Annapurna region, with warm temperatures and clear skies. The rhododendron forests in the region are in full bloom during this time, making for a beautiful and colorful trekking experience.

At higher altitudes, temperatures can be much colder and the weather can be more unpredictable. It’s important to be well-prepared for all weather conditions if trekking in the Annapurna region.

Trail conditions and difficulty level

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is a popular trekking destination in Nepal, offering breathtaking mountain views, beautiful landscapes, and diverse cultural experiences. The trail conditions and difficulty level of the ABC trek can vary depending on the time of year and the altitude.

The trek is generally considered moderate in difficulty, with some challenging sections of steep ascents and descents. The highest point of the trek is at Annapurna Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of 4,130 meters above sea level. Altitude sickness can be a concern for some trekkers, so it’s important to take proper precautions.

The trail is well-maintained and marked, with basic tea houses and lodges available for accommodation and meals. However, the facilities can be more basic at higher altitudes.

The trail conditions can vary depending on the time of year, with the monsoon season bringing slippery and muddy trails. During the winter months, snow and ice can make some sections of the trail more challenging.

Availability of food and water along the ABC trekking route

The ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) trekking route is a popular trekking route in Nepal and is known for its stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences. Along the trekking route, there are several teahouses and lodges that offer food and water for trekkers.

The availability of food and water along the ABC trekking route can vary depending on the season and the altitude of the trekking route. In general, lower elevation areas have more abundant water sources and a wider variety of food options, while higher elevation areas have limited water sources and a more limited selection of food options.

Teahouses and lodges along the trekking route generally offer basic meals such as rice, noodles, and vegetables, as well as tea, coffee, and other beverages. Some teahouses may also offer Western-style dishes, but these are generally more expensive than local dishes. It’s also important to note that food prices tend to increase as you ascend higher on the trekking route due to the higher cost of transportation.

Water is readily available along the ABC trekking route, but it’s important to treat or filter the water before drinking it to avoid getting sick. You can bring your water filter or purchase water purification tablets or drops from local stores along the route. Alternatively, you can purchase bottled water, but it’s essential to dispose of the bottles responsibly as plastic pollution is a significant problem in Nepal.

Local culture and customs of the people living in the region

The region surrounding the ABC trekking route is home to a diverse group of people, including ethnic groups such as Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Tamang, among others. Each group has its unique culture, customs, and traditions, which add to the richness of the trekking experience.

One of the most distinctive features of the local culture is their traditional dress. The Gurung and Magar people wear colorful clothing made from locally produced materials, while the Thakali people are known for their woven woolen clothing and caps. The Tamang people wear distinctive jewelry made from shells, beads, and silver.

Local festivals and celebrations are an essential part of the culture in the region. Many festivals are based on the lunar calendar and involve singing, dancing, and feasting. The most significant festival in the region is the Dashain festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil and involves the sacrifice of animals as an offering to the gods.

Another important aspect of the local culture is their traditional beliefs and practices. Many people in the region follow a mix of Hinduism and Buddhism and believe in various deities and spirits. You will find many shrines and temples along the trekking route, and it’s essential to respect these religious sites by removing your shoes before entering and avoiding taking photographs without permission.

Emergency evacuation and rescue services available in the area

The Annapurna Base Camp trekking route is a challenging trek with high altitude and rugged terrain, and there is always the risk of accidents or medical emergencies. In case of an emergency, there are several rescue services available in the area to evacuate and provide medical assistance to trekkers.

Helicopter rescue services are available in the area, and several companies offer rescue and evacuation services for trekkers. These services can be costly, and it’s important to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical and evacuation expenses.

In addition to helicopter rescue services, some areas of the trekking route can also be accessed by horseback. However, this option is not always available, and it’s important to inquire about the availability and feasibility of horse rescue services beforehand. Horse rescue services are generally less expensive than helicopter rescue services but may not be as effective in reaching remote or high altitude areas.

Necessary permits and entry fees required for the ABC trek

The ABC trek (Annapurna Base Camp Trek) is a popular trekking route in Nepal. To undertake the trek, you will need to obtain two permits:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit costs NPR 3,000 (about USD 25) per person for foreigners and NPR 100 (about USD 1) per person for SAARC nationals. It is required for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: This card costs NPR 2,000 (about USD 20) per person and is required for all trekkers in Nepal. It helps to ensure the safety and security of trekkers by keeping track of their movements in the mountains.

Communication and internet facilities in the ABC Trek

The communication and internet facilities in the Annapurna region, including along the ABC trek, can be limited and intermittent. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Mobile Network Coverage: Mobile network coverage is available in most parts of the trek, but it can be unreliable and weak in some areas. Major carriers like Ncell and Nepal Telecom have coverage in the region, but the signal strength may vary depending on the location.

Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses and lodges along the trekking route, but it is generally slow and unstable due to the mountainous terrain and limited infrastructure.

Satellite Phone: Trekking groups and individuals may choose to bring a satellite phone as a backup communication method. These phones can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and they provide reliable communication in areas with no mobile network coverage.

Communication with Family and Friends: If you need to communicate with family and friends back home, it’s a good idea to inform them of your itinerary and any possible delays. It’s also recommended to carry a power bank or a portable charger to ensure that your mobile phone is always charged.

ATM Machine and Money Exchange 

If you are planning to trek along the ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) trek in Nepal, it is important to know that there are no ATMs or money exchange facilities available along the route. Therefore, you should ensure that you bring enough Nepali Rupee with you for the duration of your trek. Bring about 20-30 Thousand Nepali Rupee for your extra expenses if you are doing package trek, if you are paying your self for food, rooms etc then bring 40-50 thousand Nepali money.

ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) trek FAQs⇓

What is the duration of the ABC trek?

A: The duration of the ABC trek is typically around 7-12 days, depending on the itinerary and trekker’s pace.

Q: What is the best time to do the ABC trek?

A: The best time to do the ABC trek is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is clear and the temperature is moderate.

Q: What is the difficulty level of the ABC trek?

A: The ABC trek is considered a moderate to difficult trek with a few steep ascents and descents along the way.

Q: What is the maximum altitude reached during the ABC trek?

A: The maximum altitude reached during the ABC trek is 4,130 meters at the Annapurna Base Camp.

Q: What is the total distance of the ABC trek?

A: The total distance of the ABC trek is approximately 65-70 kilometers.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a guide or a porter for the ABC trek?

A: It is not necessary to hire a guide or a porter for the ABC trek, but it is recommended as they can provide valuable assistance and information throughout the trek.

Q: What is the accommodation like during the ABC trek?

A: The accommodation during the ABC trek ranges from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges with attached bathrooms.

Q: What is the cost of the ABC trek?

A: The cost of the ABC trek varies depending on the season, itinerary, and services included. On average, the cost can range from $500 to $1000.

Q: What is the food like during the ABC trek?

A: The food during the ABC trek is generally basic but nutritious, with a variety of Nepali and Western dishes available.

Q: What should I pack for the ABC trek?

A: You should pack warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, a sleeping bag, a backpack, a water bottle, sunscreen, and other necessary items for the trek.

Q: Is it safe to do the ABC trek?

A: Yes, the ABC trek is generally considered safe, but it is important to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines throughout the trek.

Q: What is the best way to get to the starting point of the ABC trek?

A: The best way to get to the starting point of the ABC trek is to take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then take a bus or jeep to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek.

Q: Do I need a permit to do the ABC trek?

A: Yes, you need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card to do the ABC trek.

Q: What is the weather like during the ABC trek?

A: The weather during the ABC trek can vary depending on the season, but it is generally dry and sunny during the day with cold temperatures at night.

Q: What are some of the highlights of the ABC trek?

A: Some of the highlights of the ABC trek include stunning mountain views, beautiful landscapes, hot springs, and the opportunity to experience the local culture and lifestyle of the Nepali people.