How Long Does It Take to Trek Annapurna Base Camp?
 

How Long Does It Take to Trek Annapurna Base Camp?

  • Places
  • By Sanchita Pokharel

Do you love trekking along with challenges and adventure? If yes, then 11 days of Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the best solution that gives you the real thrill of trekking and challenges. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the popular trekking destinations among trekking enthusiasts and mountain climbers. A dream adventure of many travelers, this trek has been the center of attention because of its natural beauty. But the main question is, “How long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp?”

It typically takes around 7 to 11 days to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. However, the duration of the trek is variable and it is hugely influenced by factors like route and acclimatization day. Fitness level, pace, and difficulty level, among many others. The classic Annapurna Base Camp package of Access Nepal Tour and Trekking is 11 days. Therefore, when it comes to how long does it take to trek to Annapurna Base Camp it also depends on the travel agency package’s itinerary. We will talk about it in more detail in this blog.

The reason to trek to Annapurna Base Camp is to refresh one’s mind and soul. We are living in a world heavily influenced and affected by industrialization. This type of environment causes creative blocks and many of us are also tired of the hustle and bustle of city life.

To stop this unhealthy chain, our minds, and bodies need to rest. Going for a trek and enjoying the peace and quietness of nature is the best medicine for modern problems. Furthermore, connecting to nature is one of the best luxurious treats we can give ourselves. So, why not choose Annapurna Base Camp, when it helps you relax, reshape, and get back to being yourself?

Most importantly, beside deciding the destination the major part is planning the trip meticulously and understanding how long does it take to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. These thing are essential for the safety, planning itinerary, and knowing the difficulty level of the trek.

How Long Does It Take to Trek Annapurna Base Camp?

One of the world-famous challenging trekking destinations, Annapurna Base Camp has been on the bucket list of must-visit places in your lifetime. But the real question is how long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp. The typical days to complete the trek of this adventure is between 7 to 11 days.

The duration may increase or decrease as it is significantly influenced by factors like walking pace, acclimatization, fitness level, routes, itinerary, and packages. But the typical time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp is around days which involves reaching the base camp and returning.

Factors that Influence the Duration:

-> Acclimatization Days: Acclimatization day is the process of adjusting your body’s oxygen levels at higher altitudes. This is important to prevent altitude sickness. When you are trekking, your body undergoes several psychological changes like increasing the red blood cell to carry more oxygen when you go to higher altitudes. Since Annapurna Base Camp is located at an altitude of 4,130 meters, acclimatization days are essential. Typically Annapurna Base Camp Trek packages have 2 rest days as an acclimatization.

-> Physical Fitness: The level of your fitness is another part that affects the duration of the trek. The physically fit trekkers, who have prior experience, are healthy and exercise regularly, so it will not take long. They will be able to complete the trek in 5 to 7 days. However, if the trekkers are beginners and not physically fit, it will take some time for them to complete it.

-> Trekker’s Pace: If you are a fast walker and experienced trekker, it will significantly affect how long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp. For this type of trekker, you will complete the trek in a short period of time. Some people might challenge themselves to walk fast and take the trek as a completion to complete it fast. That’s why we recommend you walk at your own pace. This is not competing, we are here to enjoy nature and make memories.

-> Weather Conditions: Annapurna Base Camp is located in the Himalayas region of Nepal, which is the coldest region. Most of the time the temperature at this place is low and cold. During winter there will be severe snowfall and cold. Likewise, the unpredictable weather of this region makes it difficult to trek affecting the duration to complete it. To avoid this, it is recommended to trek to Annapurna Base Camp during the best time which is Spring and Autumn.

-> Package Itinerary: Another influencing factor to complete the trek is the package’s itinerary. There are lots of travel agency which takes you to the Base Camp of Annapurna. Likewise, the package itinerary differs according to the agency. Some packages have extra activities which lengthen the days to complete.

Routes Affecting How long Does It Take To Trek Annapurna Base Camp:

The major influencing factor of how long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp is the routes. There are various routes to reach Annapurna Base Camp. Each route takes different days to complete the trek. Below we have the lists of routes that are usually taken for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

1. Standard Route: The most common itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek is 11 days (7 days to reach ABC and 4 days returning journey). This standard Annapurna Base Camp route starts from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Afterward, the routes take you through Siwai, Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Dovan, Machhapuchre Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and a return journey through Dovan following the same trail.

2. Short Itineraries: Another popular itinerary to trek to Annapurna Base Camp is 7 days itinerary. It is one of the shortest itineraries of the ABC trek. Though the days to complete the trek are short it’s quite challenging because you have to walk back to back with few resting days and acclimatization. This itinerary is mostly suitable for trekkers who are short on time. The route of this trek starts and ends from Pokhara. The excluding part of this itinerary is the extra stays and activities in Kathmandu unlike in typical Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

3. Extended Routes: Most of the experienced trekkers take these extended routes because it is more challenging and require extra days and physical strength. The trekkers who are taking this route walk at a more leisurely pace and take an alternative route like taking a detour to Poon Hill. It also has extra acclimatization days and extra activities like exploring the villages. So, how long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp? This extended route typically takes more than 12 days.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost:

The cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek is US$ 890 per person only. However, the price may vary depending on your traveling style and spending nature. If you are thinking of trekking in comfort then the price may level up with that or if you are a backpack traveler and want an economical trek then it is also possible. Therefore, besides knowing how long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp, understanding the cost or price of it is also equally important.

Below we have a list of a comprehensive breakdown of the costs that should be known before trekking to Annapurna Base Camp:

1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permit Fees:

The Annapurna region permit requirement is mandatory before trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. These permits are made to protect nature and wildlife. Permits are also useful for tallying the data of several tourists visiting this region and contributing to the local communities through the help of revenue generated from permit fees.

Another importance of a Permit is for the safety of trekkers. One of these permits is used to keep track of the trekkers in the region. Fees are Also, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek permit costs are not that much expensive. There are two permits required to trek in the Annapurna region:

  1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): 30 US dollars per person
  2. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: 10 US dollars per person for a group and 20 US dollars for solo trekkers.

Transportation Costs:

Another significant part of traveling that influences the cost of a trip is transportation. Though, trek involves walking, till some part you have to travel via vehicles. Most importantly if you are visiting Nepal from a different country, the flight tickets play a major part in increasing the budget of the trip.

Our starting point to reach Annapurna Base Camp is from Kathmandu and going to Pokhara. For Annapurna Base Camp Trek transportation costs, you have to allocate the budget for two-way flight tickets, drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Siwai, and the return journey. After arriving in Kathmandu, you will have various transportation options.

  • Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara: The bus transportation options to reach Pokhara are either by private tourist bus or local bus. Traveling by Local bus will be quite a hassle though it will be budget-friendly. You can choose a local bus if you are a solo traveler and looking for an economical trip. However, if you are in a group booking a private tourist bus is much recommended. The price may also be less if you go in a group. There are two tourist bus services standard and deluxe. For one way, the transportation cost may fall between $10 to $100 US dollars per person.
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara: Flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara is another short and hassle-free solution. However, the price may go up, costing between $80 to $150 US dollars per person. This option is for those who are short on time and looking for a comfortable trip.
  • Transportation from Pokhara to Siwai: From Pokhara, you have to go to Siwai via transportation. You can either go via local bus or jeep. Hiring a jeep is much easier and they are not even expensive. To hire a jeep, it will cost you around $10 to $30 US dollars per person. Price may go up are down depending on the vehicle and distance.

Accommodation Costs:

Knowing how long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp, where you will be staying throughout the trek is another major part. The significant part to influences your travel cost is accommodation. Throughout your trip of 11 days at Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you have overnight for 10 days.

Moreover, accommodation in remote regions rises up the higher you go due to the transportation logistics. You will have various options of accommodation and you can choose one fitting your budget allocation.

  • Teahouse: Throughout the trek, you will stay in basic teahouses. They will provide basic room services and someplace it will be limited due to the remote location. The cost of a teahouse may range between $5 to $10 US dollars per night. You can also get a deluxe teahouse at a higher price.
  • Hotel in Pokhara and Kathmandu: Since it’s a city, there are various options to stay. Hotel prices may also vary according to the choice of services. Basic hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara will provide standard services with free breakfasts. The cost of a room per night costs between $20 to $100 US dollars. It totally depends on the comfort you choose.

Food and Drinks Costs:

Trekking requires more energy as it involves walking for long hours back to back. To get energy, you have to eat nutritious and healthy food. Though we can compromise on comfort, we can’t compromise on food. The crucial part of trekking and to keep your body healthy and avoid any health-related issues.

  • Meals: There are variety of meals option. The most popular and typical food is Nepali dish Dal Bhaat Tarkari (Rice, lentil soup, vegetables, chicken curry, and pickles). If it doesn’t fit to your taste bud then you also have other international options like fried rice, MO: MO (dumplings), Chowmein (noodles), sandwiches, bakery items, curry dishes, spaghetti, macaroni, lasagna, oats, pizza, porridge, and other international dishes. They will cost between $5 to $10 US dollars. Price will increase at high altitude due to the remote location.
  • Snacks and drinks: For snacks you will have options like chocolates, biscuits, or packaged noodles (WaiWai), and many more. They  may cost around $2 to $5 US dollars. Bottled water or mineral water will cost around $1 to $3 US dollars.

Costs for Guides and Porters:

Nepal’s government has made trekking without a guide or solo band because of safety reasons. Moreover, trekking with guides is even more helpful as they know best about the place, local culture, and routes. In any case of challenges or medical conditions, the guide can help you by giving basic first aid treatment.

  • Guide: Professional, Government-licensed, and English-speaking guide costs around $20 to $30 US dollars per person.
  • Porter: If you are traveling for professional reasons or have heavy packages, you will need a porter. They are essential to carry trekking gear like sleeping bags, jackets, or poles. They will cost between $15 to $25 US dollars. 

Trekking Packages:

If you like organized, planned, and stress-free trips, going via a travel agency and buying packages is more convenient. For trekking in the Annapurna region, Access Nepal has many cheap and economical packages like Annapurna Circuit Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, and many more. Furthermore, the package price also differs according to the comfort, services, and add-ons.

  • Basic Package: The cost of a basic package of Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from $890 US dollars. Access Nepal provides many discount offers and during those times, you can grab that chance and enjoy the exclusive deals. These packages cover the costs of transportation, accommodation, meals, guides, porters, and basic services.
  • Deluxe Package: The cost of a deluxe package ranges from $1000 to $2000 US dollars per person. In the deluxe package, the services you will upgraded to a premium. It covers the costs of accommodation, meals, private transport, helicopter flights, guides, porters, and high-end services.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Map:

For a more visual understanding, here is the detailed map of the Annapurna Base Camp trek routes. It will highlight the places and important landmarks you should know about.

How long does it take to trek annapurna base camp?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route Map

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty:

Annapurna Base Camp Trek’s difficulty is moderate to challenging. As we are already aware how long does it take to trek Annapurna Base Camp, finding the difficulty level is another important aspect of trekking. Annapurna Base Camp takes you to a higher altitude of a maximum being 4,130m. Trekking to this destination requires walking for long hours, ascending, and descending along rough and uneven routes or terrains.

Walking for long hours on difficult terrains and in high altitudes is not easy, especially during the winter and rainy seasons. Though Annapurna Base Camp Trek is known for being difficult, it’s not completely impossible. If you are a beginner trekker but physically fit then you can also do it.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Day in Kathmandu

Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara

Day 3: Drive Pokhara to Siwai then trek to Ghandruk

Day 4: Trek to Chhomrong, 5 to 6 hours

Day 5: Trek to Dovan, 5 to 6 hours

Day 6: Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Day 7: Trek to ABC and back to Dovan

Day 8: Trek to Jhinu Danda

Day 9: Trek to Siwai, drive to Pokhara

Day 10: Drive to Kathmandu

Day 11: Departure day from Kathmandu

So, what is your decision? Are you going to trek to Annapurna Base Camp with Access Nepal Tours and Trekking? Our packages are carefully designed by the professional and are all-inclusive packages. From transportation to accommodation, food, and highly experienced guides, Access Nepal gives you the best moments through traveling.

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