Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna mountain has established itself as the tenth-highest with a height of 8,091 meters and the deadliest peak in the world.  It could still be used as a fun fact for people who are not mountain or trek enthusiasts that Annapurna is not just a lone-standing mountain that we think, but rather a range that includes thirteen peaks over 7,0000 meters and sixteen more over 6,000 meters.  Annapurna massif, expanding to 55 kilometres ( 34 miles), includes notable peaks Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Macchapucchre. 

The entire Massif belongs to the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is the first and largest  Conservation Area in Nepal and covers around 7,629 square kilometres, which is five Percent of the total land area of Nepal. Rich in biodiversity and Home to over -- 1,226 species of flora and fauna, 195 mammals, 518 birds, 40 reptiles and 23 amphibians. Additionally, it supports 100,000 diverse residents and hosts world's class treks, including the Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit trek. 

The Annapurna Base Camp trek ( ABC), also known as Annapurna Sanctuary, consistently ranks among the most popular short trek destinations among trekkers and tourists every year. The trail is known for its well-established trekking routes that lead you to the colourful tapestry of Nepali Civilization, with shifts in terrain and Landscape. It also showcases panoramic views of the Himalayas in what can be described as an amphitheatre of the sky. 

Annapurna Region has all the wonders of the world—not quite literally, but you get the essence. In this region, Kali Gandkai, being one of the deepest gorges, does justice to its name while leaving you with a feeling of awe and questioning nature’s way of creation. Tilicho Lake is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world and sits at an elevation of 4,919 meters(16,138 feet) above sea level. The world's largest rhododendron forest in Ghorepani also lies in this region. 

Annapurna Base Camp trek is a moderately difficult trek in Nepal and has always lived up to people’s expectations. It can take a minimum of 9 days to a maximum of 21 days, depending on one’s itinerary.  This trek can be done throughout the year; however, the views are Encapsulating and seen wholly during certain months around pre-monsoon and post-monsoon. 

Two of the most popular routes to witness the magnificent and alluring  Annapurna sanctuary start from witnessing the ravenous yet enchanting Marsyangdi river valley at 3600m  and Kali Gandkai-gorge at 2500m in Annapurna range, named after the Hindu goddess of Life and Death, Kali. True to her name, she is fierce yet nurturing. Owing to her fertile and vigorous nature, she sustains the livelihood of many Nepalese by offering sustenance and a source of income. 

The Annapurna Conservation Area is the first and largest protected area, which has allowed residents to live within its boundaries, own their private property, and maintain their traditional rights and access to natural resources. This conservation region is the epitome of tourism, with villagers and wildlife coexisting together in harmony.

No prior experience in trekking is needed, although basic physical training such as swimming, running, cycling, and previous hiking experience—precisely one month before the trek—is highly appreciated on this journey. However, trekking without a guide is not possible and is illegal; this less strenuous trek is an alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek. Nevertheless, the possibility of altitude sickness certainly arises when you're at a high altitude and is a part of the trek, but it is lower than when you are at Annapurna Circuit. 

Prepare for this adventure with all the essentials: a healthy dose of resilience, patience, and stamina. You’re going to need them!

As Sir Edmund Hillary said, “It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves”. The Annapurna Sanctuary, also known as the Annapurna Base Camp  (ABC) trek, takes you to the heart of the Annapurna region. This journey brings you closer to nature and yourself. 

This fourteen-day trek commences from Kathmandu. Leaving behind the crowded hustle-bustle of the capital, trekkers follow the Prithvi Highway to reach Pokhara, where they will spend an overnight stay in this city of lakes.

Start of the trek, on the third day, an early morning drive from Pokhara to Birethanti,  lasting about 2-3 hours. The trek from Birethanti to Ulleri marks the beginning of the trek. The trail involves a mix of gentle and steep ascents and generally takes 3-6 hours. An eager hike on day four, from Ulleri to Ghorepani for 6 to 7 hours, depending on your pace, leading trekkers into one of the largest rhododendron forests in the world in Ghorepani. 

The next morning, at first light, a quick hour or two hike to Poonhill, an ideal vantage point for witnessing sunrise. Returning to Ghorepani, the trek to Tadpani begins,  a typical six to seven-hour trek. On the Sixth day, the trek continues from Tadapani to Chommrong, taking 5-6 hours. 

Leaving Chommrong behind, the trail progresses towards Annapurna, the last stop before reaching the ABC camp. On day eight, after a 6-7 hour trek, trekkers arrive at the final destination: Annapurna base camp. Familiar with the tails by now, the return journey begins, tracing back to bamboo on day nine and Jhinu on day ten. The eleven-day trek marks the end of the trek from Jhinu to Syauli Bazar, followed by a drive to Pokhara. 

The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes approximately 7- 8 hours, though this can vary. The road is often under construction or maintenance for almost the entire year due to natural calamities like landslides in the rainy season, the complex nature of Nepal's geography, and ongoing government efforts to improve convenience for both locals and tourists. Therefore, while embarking on this journey, travellers themselves must exercise caution and patience.  

Alternatively, there is also a newly constructed airport in Pokhara, and a flight to Pokhara can be customised into the trek itinerary for those with time constraints or who are prone to motion sickness.  

Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Nepal is characterised by four main seasons: summer, spring, autumn, and winter, which can be delineated into pre-monsoon, monsoon, and pot-monsoon phases. The weather at Annapurna Base Camp, being at a high elevation, isn't consistent and frequently unforeseeable at most times. Nonetheless, spring and autumn are regarded as peak seasons among trekkers. 

Spring

The spring season, spanning March, April, and May, is considered one of the best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The weather and temperature are relatively stable,  which is both preferred by wildlife and the ecosystem. The skies are mostly clear due to low precipitation, offering excellent visibility and creating a picturesque environment alongside the dry and navigable trail routes. 

Minimum and Maximum Temperatures: 

• March: Average maximum 4°C (39.2°F) to average minimum -8°C (17.6°F).
• April: Average maximum  8 °C (46.4 °F) to average minimum -4°C (24.8°F) 
• May:  Average maximum14°C ( 57.2°F) to average min 0 °C (32°F). 

Summer

Nepal's summer, which coincides with the monsoons in June, July, and August, blesses the Annapurna region with heavy rainfall and high humidity. As a result, the terrain becomes muddy and slippery, increasing the difficulty of the trek. The persistent rainfall decreases visibility, with rare and fleeting glimpses of the Annapurna peak.  Trekkers are generously served a buffet of risks of natural calamities, including landslides, flooding and treacherous terrain, making sure the adventure indeed becomes an unforgettable one. 

• June: Average maximum 16°C (60.8°F)to  average minimum 3 °C (37.4°F)

• July:Average maximum 18°C (64.4°F) to average minimum 6 °C (42.8°F)

• August: Average maximum 19°C ( 66.2°F) to average minimum 7 °C ( 44.6°F)

Autumn 

Autumn in Nepal lasts from September to October, and November is arguably the best time to trek. It is considered a golden season in the trekking community. The fresh start with clear-crystal skies without relentless downpours. October is the best month, this is the most loved season for Nepalese, especially children, as it coincides with the country's biggest festivals in Nepal, Dashain and Tihar and is accompanied by the longest holidays. There is excellent visibility and unobstructed views of prominent Himalayan peaks and ethereal sunrise and sunsets.  There is a possibility that the trail may be overcrowded and expensive.  Nevertheless, this is the best time to go.

• September: Average maximum 20°C (68°F), average minimum 0°C ( 32°F)

• October: Average maximum 16 °C  (60.8°F), average minimum -6 °C (21.2°F)

• November: Average maximum 11°C (51.8°F), average minimum -10 °C (14°F)

Winter

While the winters in the Annapurna region are harsh, the glistening snow and rugged mountains are a beautiful contrast and certainly a sight to behold. The trails are less crowded but snowy during this time, but the harsh temperatures, snowstorms, and risk of avalanches remain. The tea houses at the Annapurna base camp are not available, so it is always necessary to inform them firsthand. There is clear visibility, and snow dramatically enhances the beauty of the Annapurna region. 

• December:Average maximum 9.3°C (48.74°F), average minimum -14 °C (6.8°F)

• Janurary:Average maximum 7 °C (44.6°F), average minimum -19 °C (-2.2°F)

• Feburary:Average maximum 6°C (42.8°F), average minimum -20 °C (-4°F)

Required Permits for ABC Trek 

Nepal Tourism Board has mandated a few permits for treks and tours in Nepal regarding the safety and tracking of their entry data. Trekking permits are acquired by trekkers who need them for entry into conservation and restricted areas for trekkers in Nepal.  

TIMS

Trekkers must acquire the trekking information management system( TIMS ) card. This initiative was started to gather information about trekkers to regulate the trekking industry, ensure trekkers' safety, and regulate illegal trekking activities in Nepal. The TIMS card can be purchased in the Nepal Tourism Board ( NTB) office in Kathmandu and Pokhara or at any registered trekking industry authorized to issue it. There is also E-TIMS, a streamlined and progressive electronic version. 

1. Non- SAARC trekkers-  2,000/- per person

2. SAARC trekkers: 1,000/- per person

Annapurna  Conservation Area Permit:

Every trekker wishing to trek in the Annapurna region, encompassing Annapurna Base Camp, must obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ( ACAP). The collected fees portion goes to the development for the conservation of this area. 

1. Non SAARC trekkers: NPR 3,000

2. SAARC trekkers: NPR1,000

The exact amount in NPR can vary slightly due to the fluctuation in the current exchange rate. A trekking agency like Swotah can help trekkers obtain it swiftly if the required document is given. 

Packing List for Annapurna Base Camp trek 

Gear is an important consideration during trekking that cannot be neglected or overlooked. Proper preparation and thorough research should be conducted before embarking on this odyssey. The trekking in Annapurna Base Camp is for around 9-11 days and takes up to an elevation of  3,303 meters (10,837 feet). 

Challenges ought to come when you put yourself out there. However, there is no problem without a solution. Having said that, here's the comprehensive packing list, curated with the help of experienced guides and team members to pack for the Annapurna Base Camp.  

Backpack, Day pack and Small bag 

Swotah provides a free duffle bag( Backpack) of around 100L that has all your required essentials, which are to be carried by our porters. 

A day pack of around (25L-30L) is to be brought by trekkers, although it is not mandatory, as it can be left in the hotel you first checked into. However, if trekkers wish to carry their bags, they can do so, but hiking with additional weight can quickly tire people. 

Swotah recommends a small and light backpack for trekkers. These backpacks can carry items that you need frequently and promptly, such as documents, snacks, chargers, water bottles, and first aid kits, making them extremely helpful and lightweight. 

Essential Clothing

The extreme fluctuation of elevation sometimes results in an inclination towards either too-thick or too-thin clothing items. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to pack without overdoing anything.

1. Headwear

2. Hat or Cap

ABC Trek will give you all the vitamin D that you've been missing for a very long time, for 5-7 hours a day. Therefore, protect your head and face for better visibility and from harmful rays while enjoying the sun kisses. 

3. Beanie or Knitted hat

Nepal is one of the world's exporters of woollen and hand-knitted items. It has ample options for items like gloves, beanies, hats, cardigans, and sweaters made of yak or sheep wool. It can be purchased anywhere, but the Thamel area has explicitly many shops. They are warm and produced by Nepal's weather, so don't worry about whether they can be taken on the ABC trek or not. 

4. Neck gaiter or buffer

This versatile and multi-purpose piece of clothing can be used as a snood, tube neck scarf, neck scarf, neck tube, neck snood, or even an accessory item. It can also be used as a neck protector, neck warmer, or nose and mouth protector. 

5. Sun Glasses

Investing in good quality sunglasses that protect the eye from UV rays and reduce glare reduction because the eyes are sensitive organs. Additionally, cases of temporary blindness while trekking are not unheard of. 

6. Handwear

Comparatively, hands are exposed more than any other body part. As mentioned previously, there are good quality knitted gloves found here in Nepal that were made to withstand the cold.

Clothing 

• Thermal Underwear

•  Lightweight Thermal Tops and Bottoms

• Handwear: Inner Gloves and Outer Gloves

Mid Layers:

•  Soft Fleece Jacket

• Down Jacket ( Puffer Jacket)
  
  

Outer layers

• Waterproof pants

• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket ( Rain Jacket)

Footwear:

• A few pairs of thermal socks

• A few pairs of hiking socks

• Gaiters

• Trekking Sandals

• Trekking Boots
  
  

Equipment, Gears and Accessories

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping bag liner

• Gaiters

•  lightweight foldable Trekking poles

• Headlamp

• Microspikes

• Hydration

• Waterbottle

• Hydration bag

Navigation and safety

• Maps

• Compass

• Altimeter Watch

• GPS device

• Compass

• Headlamp

• Extra Batteries

• Whistle

• Swiss Knife
  
  

Snack and Food

• Energy Bars

• Nuts and Seed

• Granola Bars

• Chocolate

• Peanut Butter

• Biscuit or cookies

• Instant noodles

• Dehydrated Meals

• Instant soup

• Tea bags and Coffee

• Electrolyte

Transportation

Nepal never fails to surprise; expecting the unexpected should be the only motto here. The only way to best describe Nepal's transportation system could be a rollercoaster ride, minus the fun part and added jerky and time-consuming parts. 

As a landlocked country, Nepal relies on air and road transportation. Access to air travel is minimal compared to road travel. Private and public transportation is almost always the key. There are few instances in rural areas, even walking for days.

Swotah offers a customizable selection of trip packages that can be upgraded from the classic public bus to a private jeep, and if the place allows, they can also be arranged by air.

Guide & Porter

Annapurna Base camp trek without a guide is illegal. Guides are mandatory while trekking in Nepal, with the new rule implemented in the spring of 2023.  Trekkers do not have to worry about the guides being inexperienced or untrained.  A guide must have registered trekking licences from the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Association, have completed basic and advanced mounting courses from the Nepal Mounterring Association (NMA), and have years of experience.

Guides working in Swotah have lived years in the wilderness and guided thousands of treks successfully. 

Porters are not mandatory, but having one can make the whole trek easier, safer, and lighter. Porters are also a sort of entry requirement to become guides. They familiarise themselves with the trail, work in nature, and undergo official hardcore training to be promoted to the position. The ideal weight for them to carry is typically between 20- 25 kilograms (44 to 45 pounds), as extreme weight can hamper their overall well-being, considering the elevation and risks of altitude sickness. 

Water during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trekkers are primarily concerned about the consumption and quality of water. An ideal amount is 3-4 litres a day, consumed at regular intervals, to help prevent altitude sickness. Carrying reusable water bottles over single-use plastic bottles for hydration minimises waste production and promotes sustainability. Out in the wild, there are plenty of natural water streams, springs, and rivers. Moreover, directly consuming water from the source without purification can be foolish and may lead to water-borne illness,  taking several days to recover. 

There are a few other options for purifying water, listed below in ascending order of cost and availability.  

1. Boiling water is a basic, simple, yet effective way to purify water. It is available at every tea house, although they may charge a few bucks. 

2. Water Purification Tablets: These are lightweight, affordable and easy to carry and are effective but may leave an aftertaste.

3. Portable water filters: An expensive investment but sustainable and are pretty heavy to carry 

4. UV purifiers: A costlier option provides quick purification and relies on solar power and batteries. 

 Essential Documents

 To ensure that you have all the necessary documents for your VISA, permits, and SIM card, ensure that you have the following:

• Passport with validity for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Carry multiple copies of your passport.

• Tourist Visa: You can obtain a tourist visa on arrival or apply for one at Nepelase’s embassy before your trip

• Permits:  Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ( ACAP) 

• Trekkers Information Management System

Telecommunication during ABC Trek

To all those trekking for the digital detox and, on the other hand, worried about the internet connectivity and coverage in the Annapurna region, rest assured that it is not a secluded area. It is a commercialised zone that supports eco-tourism. 

Internet connection and coverage

Almost all the tea houses in this Annapurna Base camp route feature wifi availability. Most of them offer for free, while some may charge a few extra bucks at higher elevations. However, due to the minimal wifi bandwidth used by many people, the internet connectivity may be slow. Right wifi is the only one, and no other options exist.

Aside from Wi-Fi, there are plenty of other options for internet connection, such as mobile carriers and satellite phones. Swotah provides one sim to all the trekkers. However, it is easily available and accessible in every part of Nepal. 

Nepal Telecom

Nepal Saar Doorsanchar Company Ltd, popularly known as Nepal Telecommunication or Namaste or NTC among Nepalis, has been one of the most trusted public telecommunication companies in Nepal since 2032 B.S. ( 1975-1975 A.D.). Both e-sim and regular sim services with 4G LTE and VoLTE are provided on a frequency band of 1800 MHz as standard in all seven provinces, including Annapurna Base Camp. This is the first time the 4G service was available at such a high altitude.

The process of purchasing a SIM in Nepal is hassle-free. It is available at the designated kiosk at Tribhuvan International Airport, NTC, or any authorized sellers in the local shop in Nepal. As mentioned earlier, certain documents need to be submitted before obtaining the SIM, and it takes an hour to activate it. Generally, the cost of a SIM can range from(USD1-USD5), and there are a few additional charges for data plans, voice calls and text services.

Ncell

Previously known as “mero sim”, later rebranded as Ncell Axista, it is one of the largest private internet providers. The competition between NTC and NCell is neck and neck; Ncell provides pretty much the same services as NTC, with a few flexible and advanced options such as Connect (a portable Wi-Fi hotspot) and data plans. The price is similar and costs around( USD1-USD6 ), available at Tribhuvan International Airport and any other authorized centres. 

There is no huge difference between NTC and NCell. However, trekkers prefer NTC at higher elevations and NCell at lower elevations, considering the coverage and usage, if you are confused about what to buy. Go for both and see for yourself.

Satellite Phone 

A satellite phone is similar to terrestrial mobile telephones. It has pretty much the same features, including voice calling, text messaging, and low bandwidth. But you should not go the extra mile and pull the stunt to get this phone. As mentioned earlier, Annapurna is not a secluded region but a rural area, and this phone comes with a pretty hefty price tag. 

Charging during ABC Trek

Electricity is accessible at all the teahouses, where you will stay overnight during the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

The teahouses you're staying in provide the charging station facility. Although it may cost a few bucks, it becomes worth every penny every penny when you're connected to the outer world. Alternatively, solar batteries and power banks can also be used. 

Accommodation on the Annapurna 

The hard and fast rule of accommodation, the higher the elevation, the greater the price. The price tends to go higher in peak seasons, necessitating booking options. 

Kathmandu and Pokhara offer elegant, extravagant, and luxurious options as well as comfortable yet affordable lodging. The Spectrum of accommodation caters to the needs of all travellers with varying needs and budgets.

Numerous accommodations in the lower elevation have European-styled and Asian-style toilets and also hot and cold showers. They are well-equipped to meet tourists' needs and offer a wide array of amenities and foods. 

Have lower expectations as you progress along the path. As you ascend higher, the number of accommodations decreases, and only basic comfortable lodging becomes available. At the Annapurna Base Camp, for instance, there are only a few lodging options.

Swotah provides accommodation facilities to those who book a tour with us. Each room is well equipped with two beds and a toilet, which may be communal or private.

Camping options Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Undoubtedly, camping in the Annapurna region is possible; it's not like people have never done it before, and it is not an entirely new concept. Although camping is an option, it requires additional equipment and expenses and is generally done in a secluded area. Annapurna base camp, however, is not such. There is a well-established trail with accommodation options available at every other stopover. 

If you wish to camp at the Annapurna base camp, Swotah can facilitate that experience for you. 

Foods During Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is also known as the “teahouse trek.” Nepal, home to a diverse ethnic group, allows trekkers to taste authentic local cuisine as well as food from other countries. At the end of the day, what matters is how to gain energy for the next day's trek. 

Swotah provides a hearty three-sit meal a day (BLD) while “trekking ”. 

Breakfast on the Annapurna Base Camp Trail

• Gurung Bread with Jam or Honey
• Gurung Bread with Cheese
• French toast
• Plain Pancake
• Apple Pancake
• Chocolate Pancake
• Chapatti w / Cheese/ Omelet 
• Plain Omelet
• Onion/Tomato/Cheese Omelet
• Boiled Egg
• Oat Porridge wHoney/Fruits 
• Muesli w/fruit/hot milk
• Vegetable Soup 
• Set Breakfast
  

Lunch/ Dinner  on Annapurna Base Camp Trail:

• Dal Bhat ( The OG) 
• Thakali Khana Set 
• Egg fried rice
• Veg Fried rice
• Spaghetti
• Pasta 
• Pizza
• Burger
• Macaroni 
• Dumpling(MO:MO)
• Hot dog
• Sandwiches 
• Noodle/ Chowmein
• Spring Roll with chips 
• Soup
• Drinks on the Annapurna Base Camp trail
• Black tea
• Milk Tea
• Lemon Tea
• Ginger Tea
• Mint Tea
• Masala Tea
• Hot Milk 
• Hot Chocolate 
• Mustang Coffee
• Black Coffee
• Ginger Lemon Honey
• Coke/fanta/sprite
• Can Juice 
• Red Bull
• Mineral Water
• Boiled Water

Hard drinks are available throughout the trail. However, elevation, trekking, and hard-drinking do not go together, and it may severely affect the body. The prices are on the pricier side, as they increase incrementally with the gain in elevation.

Altitude Sickness

The primary concern when trekking in higher elevations is altitude sickness. Acute motion sickness, positively correlated with elevation and mountains, is often caused by rapid exposure to a low amount of oxygen at higher elevations too quickly. Annapurna Base camp at 4,130 meters is no indifferent. Acute mountain sickness typically progresses through three stages, ascending the severity from mild to life-threatening. 

Acute mountain sickness ( AMS): AMS is a common and mild form of altitude sickness. It starts with similar symptoms to a hangover, such as headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath. It occurs when the body can’t rapidly adjust to lower oxygen levels at higher elevations.

High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE):  AMS progressing on the risky side HAPE affects the lungs, potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Generally occurs 2-4 days after rapid ascent to altitudes higher than 2000- 2500m. Symptoms are usually severe, such as chest tightness, general weakness, a persistent cough, coughing up white or pink sputum ( a frothy liquid),  decreased exercise tolerance, slow recovery from exercise and a bluish tinge to the lips and often worse at night.

High-Altitude Cerebral Edema( HACE): Generally does not occur in most cases.HACE is rare and occurs at an elevation of 3000m or higher, affects the brain, and can be fatal if not treated promptly. It is often associated with a  late or end-stage of the spectrum of altitude disorders. Symptoms include confusion, fever, vision change, altered mental state, severe headache, fast heart rate ( tachycardia), and other signs constantly overlapping with AMS but severe.

The chances of AMS occurring in the Annapurna region are relatively higher than those of HAPE and HACE.

Nevertheless, Swotah has highly trained and experienced guides who ensure that the chances of Altitude sickness are low through proper acclimatization and local remedies. Nevertheless, first aid is also on standby.

LGBTQ

Legally, basic human rights, such as the freedom to love someone, are not criminalized, unlike in neighbouring countries. Same-sex marriage was recently recognized, marking a "historic landmark," which should have occurred much sooner, given that the bill was passed around 2009. Nepal is progressive in its way but still has a long way to go. 

On a societal level, society is indeed shifting every day; there are hardly any cases or issues regarding hate crimes against the LGBTQ community in Nepal, neither against Nepalis nor tourists. Interestingly,  education about the spectrum of the LGBTQ community regarding gender and sexuality is minimal.  And their curiosity may come as offensive and inadvertently offend people. Essentially, the older generation might come across as disrespectful and conservative at times, but the new generation is certainly more open to progressive approaches and respect. Also, it depends on the individual. Overall, Nepal is safe for the LGBTQ community.

Swotah family is inclusive, a proud ally, and accepting of the LGBTQ community as well as minorities. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek for Female Trekkers

Nepal is becoming increasingly popular among female solo travellers. While every nation has its own set of challenges, Nepal is still relatively safe in many aspects, including women's safety, particularly compared to other nations.  Annapurna Base Camp is no different. Given the positive number of reviews from female travellers, it is assuredly a safe destination for travellers. However, violent cases involving tourists are a rarity and seldom reported. This being said, there can always be expectations on rare occasions. Nevertheless, it is better to be cautious and follow safety protocols in any given situation. 

Annapurna Base Camp for Elderly Trekkers

Nepal, hypnotizing in its way, has often remained on everyone's bucket lists for years. Most people who come to Nepal have already experienced a significant portion of their lives, as it takes quite some time to finally tick it off the list. That being said, older people can certainly trek to Annapurna Base Camp with proper planning, the right team, adequate preparation, physical fitness, and careful acclimatization. 

Annapurna Base Camp Treks with Kids

Parents often find themselves in a dilemma about whether to take their children on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Trekking with kids adds to the safety concerns for parents, requiring heightened vigilance throughout the journey. 

Furthermore, the inherent difficulties and potential risk of altitude sickness are significant factors to consider. Due to their vulnerable nature, it is generally not recommended to undertake trekking with children under the age of two. However, hiking with children above this age is possible, but they are encouraged to take safety precautions and ensure a secure and pleasurable expedition. 

Tipping Culture

Tipping Recommendation
We recommend allocating 10-15% of your total tour cost to tipping guides, drivers, and other hardworking staff who ensure your experience is unforgettable. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a meaningful way to support the seasonal workers who dedicate themselves to making your trip extraordinary.

By booking with us and participating in the tipping culture, you are directly contributing to Nepal’s local economy and helping sustain the tourism workforce. This support is crucial in retaining talent within the country and addressing challenges like brain drain.

Your generosity makes a lasting impact—thank you!