The Annapurna Base Camp trek brings you into the heart of the Himalayas from the very start of the hike. With so many spectacular high peaks on show it is no surprise this week long hike is high on many people’s itinerary. Whether travelling for a short time or travelling with older children, this trek is for everyone: scenery is incredible, culture is engaging, accommodation comfortable and walking not too strenuous. From the Annapurna Base Camp, and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp the views are of the majestic Machhapuchhre (better known as Fish Tail), Mount Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Annapurna III, amongst others. At the Annapurna sanctuary there is a 360 degree panorama and a near vertical view of the south face of the Annapurna towering above.

The trail passes through interesting villages and terraced farmland, giving an insight into how the locals of this area live. It also winds through rhododendron forests, passes and over glacier rivers and waterfalls, and allows spectacular views of sheer cliffs with rivers running below. And of course the Himalayas provide an awe-inspiring backdrop! With the highest altitude being 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp, and a steady but gentle increase in altitude in the days proceeding, there is little likelihood of altitude related problems. This is also an almost an all-year-round route which fits into most visitors’ Nepal schedule.

Outline Itinerary

INCLUDES AND EXCLUDES

Faqs

Days	Itinerary	Altitude	Time
Day 1	Kathmandu to Pokhara (Drive)	830m	6 - 7 hr
Day 2	Pokhara to Naya Pool (Drive) to Ghandruk	1940 m	5 - 6 hr
Day 3	Ghandruk to Chomrong	2170 m	6 hr
Day 4	Chomrong to Bamboo	2310 m	4 - 5 hr
Day 5	Bamboo to Deurali	3230 m	3 - 4 hr
Day 6	Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp	4130 m	5 - 6 hr
Day 7	Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo	2310 m	7 - 8 hr
Day 8	Bamboo to Jhinu Danda	1760 m	5 - 6 hr
Day 9	Jhinu Danda to Naya Pool to Pokhara (Drive)	830 m	6 - 7 hr
Day 10	Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive)	1380 m	6 - 7 hr

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FAQs

Is it safe to drink the water in Annapurna

No. You cannot drink the water from the tap or streams in Annapurna. Mineral water is not available on the trail. It is expensive to buy (perhaps 10 times more than in Kathmandu). You can use a water purifier or SteriPen.

Am I likely to get altitude sickness on my trek?

Be aware. Elevation on this trek will exceed 3,500m. The possibilities of getting altitude sickness generally start at this elevation. But in order to avoid this, as much as possible, we have designed the itinerary in such a way that it will give you enough time to acclimatize.

Am I at risk and how can I avoid altitude sickness?

There is no knowing who will suffer from altitude sickness. It does not follow that the younger and fitter people will not get altitude sickness where the older and less fit will. It is not related to (general) fitness or age. Talk to your doctor at home. There are prescription medications which help avoid the onset of altitude sickness. But above all, go slowly, listen to your body, be aware of any changes, and listen to your guide if he feels you are showing symptoms (which you might not notice).

What happens if there is need for emergency evacuation while I am trekking?

We will collect your travel insurance policies and details before the trek so that in case of an emergency we can coordinate with your insurance company and the helicopter providers for evacuation.

What about simple medical treatment on the trek?

First aid. On every trek we will carry a first aid kit. We also recommend you carry your own. Here is a checklist recommended by Karen Anderson of things you should bring. Vaccinations are not compulsory in Nepal but to be on the safe side we recommend you comply, where possible, with this list provided by again by Karen Anderson (medical doctor in New Zealand and friend and client of Magical Nepal).

Do I need to buy travel insurance before I come to Nepal?

Yes. Magical Nepal only provides insurance for our own staff. We recommend you buy insurance in your country. Note: Insurance should cover you for the altitudes you are trekking at (not all do). We recommend World Nomads.

Will I need to bring my own sleeping bag or not?

Yes, bring your own or you can rent it or buy it in Kathmandu. Renting a sleeping bag in Kathmandu will cost you $1 or $2 per day. To buy a new sleeping bag in Kathmandu expect to pay around $150 to $200 for one of medium quality.

Will I need to use crampons on this trek?

No. The trails are well marked. Unless you go in mid-winter you will not need crampons. Instead of crampons, carry micro spikes which are not technical, lightweight to carry, cheaper and fit any shoe size.

What happens if I forget to bring something with me from home?

If you forget something it might be extremely hard to find here. Please check here for an exhaustive packing list for (general) trekking in Nepal. If you are not a frequent hiker, you can rent most of the trekking gear in Nepal when you arrive.

Will we be using tents and mattresses on the trek?

No. There are teahouses along the trek. We will not need tents or mattresses.

Where can I leave stuff in Kathmandu when I am trekking?

Anything you don’t want to take on the trek with you can be stored at your hotel or in our office. We suggest you ensure your bag is lockable.

Who will be my guide?

We use local guides. On each trek our guides have been to the relevant areas numerous times. All are experienced, knowledgeable, flexible and authorized licensed guides with the Government of Nepal.

Will I need a porter for my trek?

Preferable. If you use a porter it has double benefit: you can fully enjoy your trek without carrying a heavy bag, and its improves the income of the local community.

How much can a porter carry?

20kg. On average a porter can carry 22kg including their own backpack. So, they can carry up to 18kg of your gear and equipment. We provide backpacks for porters.

Are your staff insured in case of accidents etc.?

Yes. At Magical Nepal we make sure all our staff are well insured.

I hear incidents when porters do not have proper shoes etc. Is this true?

At Magical Nepal we ensure all our guides and porters have proper gear, are well equipped and protected. This is for their own wellbeing and for the wellbeing of our clients.