The 12-day Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you from the busy city of Kathmandu to the middle of the high mountains along the route. During the travel, you will be able to witness the Annapurna I (8,091 meters | 26,545 feet), Annapurna II, Annapurna South (7,219 meters | 23,684 feet), Fishtail (6,993 meters | 22,943 feet), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters | 26,795 feet), Ganagapurna, and several more peaks.
On this Annapurna base camp trekking, you will pass by the dense forest and the ups and downs of the Mahabharat range through Bamboo, Jhinu, and Deurali. Also, you can get to see wooden and suspension bridges that make the trip more adventurous.
People of the Gurung and Magar communities are the majority along the way in the villages of the Annapurna region. While Brahmins are also present, they are a minority in these parts of the region. You will be living in the traditional guest houses increasing the familiarity with Nepalese tradition and culture.
The low altitude of this hike makes this route rich in resources compared to Everest Base Camp Trek. The journey is cost-effective compared to any other mountain hike due to this reason as well. The Base Camp is only at an altitude of (4,130m. | 13,549 ft.) making the hiking a comfortable expedition to the middle of nature.
Best Time For The Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The best season and time to visit Annapurna Base Camp is Autumn and Spring.
During Autumn (September-November), there will be beautiful, joyful, landscapes. Since several festivals occur during this time, this season offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in the region's rich culture.
In springtime( March-May), the route is filled with wildflowers, green trees, and blooming rhododendron forests with clear skies.
12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Why Should You Do It?
The 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek is moderately challenging. This ABC trip will let you experience the culture and nature in a single trip to ABC. The Annapurna region is inhabited by the people of Gurung and Magar communities and a minority of Brahmins. The hike is done at a relatively low altitude decreasing the chances of falling victim to Altitude sickness. The route is not challenging with fewer ups and downs making it accessible to most of the age groups.
You will be able to experience the culture and tradition of locals in this Annapurna region and enjoy the festivities and activities during the time of your journey. Moreover, this exploration is one of the cost-friendly choices for most of the travellers coming to Nepal. Unlike the Annapurna circuit trek, which circles the Annapurna massif and reaches its highest point at Thorong La Pass, the Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you directly to the heart of the Annapurna region.
Requirements For Guides And Permits For ABC Trek
The Trek to ABC requires you to have one permit, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
The cost of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit:
For Foreigners: $30
SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 (about $ 10)
The Annapurna Base camp trekking falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project and due to this requires you to have an entry permit.
As for the guides' requirements, Nepal has banned solo travelling since April 2023. The permit is provided with the help of a travel agency and guides too. The guides are required for you to travel safely and experience the most this journey has to provide.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days Budget Requirements
The 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek has a price range of $600-$850. This cost depends on the duration of the journey, the number of individuals, modes of transportation, food, and accommodation.
This hike is comparatively at low altitude so there are luxury choices for you as well. The budget for this adventure will depend upon how you want it.
