Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Answer: This is a very important question for all visitors. Clients should classify themselves as to what type of adventure they are capable of undertaking. This depends on their physical fitness level, previous experience, acceptable risk level and desired experience. Trekking in Nepal is considered a trek, it can depend on the difficulty and skill required. Easy trekking is considered class 1 to 4 terrain which is mostly flat with hills and some rocks but is non-technical and does not require any ropes. Class 5 to 6 trekking is considered difficult. Difficult trekking in Nepal means you may have to navigate high altitude paths which may or may not require the use of ropes and crampons. Mountaineers are expected to traverse steep rock, ice and glacial terrain which requires the use of specialized techniques and equipment. Whatever you are considered, AlpineTrav Treks is committed to providing organized and high quality services on all our trekking and mountaineering packages. Most of our clients who leave Nepal comment that they consider their experience luxurious because of AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions.

A: When people travel to Nepal they will encounter very different cultures, attitudes and ways of doing things that are different from their native culture. Please keep in mind that Nepal is a developing country so you should not always expect streamlined travel arrangements. Many of the expedition operators and tourist related business people can speak English, but very few native people and a lot of elderly people speak very little English. The general hygiene of most people and the handling of food might also be a surprise to most people. We advise a deliberate transition for your dietary needs that includes not eating at small unhygienic food stands and staying away from meat for the first few days. Toilets may also be at a lower standard than what you may be used to. You can expect in most villages that a toilet is just a hole in the ground. If you have a flexible attitude, a good sense of humor, can go with the flow this will maximize your enjoyment and your adventure experience in Nepal. It can be very encouraging to your tour leader and guide if your express to them that you are accepting that things might not be going to plan because of the unpredictability of Nepalese logistics.

All bookings are made through AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions Pvt. Ltd. based at Boudha 6, Kathmandu, Nepal. Travel Booking Terms To book your holiday you must send us a completed booking (enquiry) form or email us directly with details, for information. Learn more about our book. How to Book a Trip?

The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies, moderate temperatures, and panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri range. Winter is also doable, though colder, while monsoon season (June–August) brings heavy rain and leeches.

Yes, you need two permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara and are essential for trekking legally in the region.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. While it doesn’t require technical climbing, trekkers should be prepared for daily hikes of 5–7 hours, elevation gains up to 4,130 meters, and varying terrain. With proper preparation and pacing, even first-time trekkers can complete it successfully.

For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, pack layers including:

1. Moisture-wicking base layers
2. Insulating fleece or down jacket
3. Waterproof outer shell
4. Trekking boots and socks
5. Sleeping bag (rated for cold nights)
6. Trekking poles, sunscreen, sunglasses, water purifier, and personal first aid kit

Packing light but efficiently is key for comfort during the trek.

Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek consists mainly of tea houses—simple lodges offering a bed, meals, and basic facilities like shared bathrooms and hot showers. As you ascend, amenities become more basic, but the hospitality of the local communities remains a highlight of the trek.

Yes, altitude sickness is a potential risk as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek reaches over 4,100 meters. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. To prevent it, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and allow time for acclimatization. Descend if symptoms worsen.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek typically costs between $799 to $999, depending on whether you’re trekking independently or through a trekking company. Costs cover permits, accommodation, food, transportation, guides/porters, and gear rental if needed. It’s one of the more budget-friendly high-altitude treks in Nepal.

Yes, solo trekking is allowed on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, and the trail is dotted with plenty of lodges. However, hiring a local guide or porter can enhance safety, provide cultural insight, and aid in navigation—especially during the off-season or unpredictable weather conditions.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek reaches up to 4130m/13546ft, where conditions range from warm and sunny at lower altitudes to freezing cold at higher camps. Packing correctly is essential for safety, comfort, and enjoyment.

Clothing

Base Layers

• Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3, quick-dry, mix of long and short sleeves)
• Thermal tops and bottoms (2 sets, light and medium weight)

Mid Layers

• Fleece jacket or pullover
• Down or synthetic insulated jacket (lightweight but warm)

Outer Layers

• Waterproof and windproof shell jacket with hood
• Waterproof trekking pants

Trekking Pants and Shorts

• 2 trekking pants (quick-dry, stretchable)
• 1 trekking short (optional, for lower altitudes)

Underwear and Sleepwear

• 4–5 pairs moisture-wicking underwear
• Sports bras (2–3 for women)
• Warm sleepwear

Headwear

• Sun hat or cap
• Warm beanie or wool hat
• Buff, neck gaiter, or scarf

Gloves

• Inner liner gloves
• Insulated or windproof outer gloves

Footwear

• Trekking boots (waterproof, broken-in, ankle support)
• Lightweight camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)
• 4–5 pairs trekking socks (synthetic or wool blend)
• 1–2 pairs warm wool socks (for cold nights)

Gear and Accessories

• Backpack (30–40L for daily essentials, with rain cover)
• Duffel bag (60–80L, for porter use, waterproof preferred)
• Sleeping bag (rated –10°C or better, four-season)
• Trekking poles (adjustable, shock-absorbing)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Headlamp with spare batteries
• Water bottles (2 × 1L) or hydration bladder (2–3L)
• Water purification tablets or filter
• Quick-dry travel towel

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap
• Tissue rolls or pocket tissues
• Deodorant (small size)
• Moisturizer (for dry, cold weather)

Health and Safety

• Personal first-aid kit (band-aids, blister pads, antiseptic cream)
• Altitude sickness medicine (Diamox if prescribed)
• Pain relievers (Ibuprofen or Paracetamol)
• Oral rehydration salts or electrolyte powders
• Prescribed medicines
• Insect repellent (for lower altitudes in spring/summer)
• Dust mask or scarf

Electronics and Extras

• Smartphone and charger
• Portable power bank (minimum 10,000 mAh)
• Camera with spare batteries and memory cards
• Plug adapter (Type C/D/M, 220V in Nepal)
• Book, Kindle, or cards for evenings
• Small notebook and pen

Documents and Money

• Passport with photocopies
• Trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS, usually arranged by agency)
• Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter rescue)
• Cash in Nepalese Rupees (ATMs not available on the trail)

Packing Tips

1. Domestic flights and porters usually allow 15–20 kg per person, so pack efficiently.
2. Use a layering system to handle quick weather changes.
3. Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
4. Carry reusable bottles and purify water instead of buying plastic bottles.
5. If using a porter, keep only daily essentials in your backpack.

Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with AlpineTrav Treks. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather or health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.