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Essential information about Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The world-class hiking paths in Nepal include the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is a substantial glacial basin that is situated to the north of Pokhara. Because of the unusual combination of depths and heights, the Annapurna Base Camp hike offers an extraordinarily diverse ecology. The Annapurna Himalayan ranges and other peaks above the 7000-meter level are among the snow giants that surround it. In the summer, it barely receives 7 hours of sunshine per day.

A dense tropical forest of bamboo and Rhododendron covered the south-facing slopes and the north-facing slopes are covered by rain shadow. The sanctuary is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists as it is believed to be the abode of their deities. Annapurna sanctuary was not opened for foreigners until 1956. It is also called an Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. It is the most beautiful trek exploring the diverse ethnic groups and their cultures such as Gurung, Magar, Thakali and glimpse of flora and fauna. The trek offers spectacular mountain views including Machhapuchhere (6,993 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Himchuli (7,246m) while on the trail.

Normally, the trek begins from Nayapul and a strenuous walk via Chhomrung, Bamboo and Deurali leads us to the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).

How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Annapurna base camp trek is not as difficult as the other higher elevation treks in Nepal. Hence, anyone who is willing to put in the necessary planning and training may complete this expedition. 

The walk to Annapurna Base Camp winds across some of the tallest mountains in the world. You get a world-class mountain viewing hike while traveling through the renowned Annapurna Sanctuary at a comparatively lower altitude. 

Your journey to Annapurna Base Camp will be spent primarily below 4,200 meters. The terrain is difficult, though, with countless numbers of stairs. However, in order to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan Adventure, you will need to complete the necessary training prior to this trek.

What are the risk factors of ABC Trek?

One of the safest hikes in Nepal is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. However, a few natural elements may impact on your adventure journey. The primary risks of this hike are landslides and avalanches. During this journey, you must be careful from Hinku Cave to Machhapuchhere Base Camp since there is a possibility of avalanches and stone falls along this path.

How long is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna base camp hike typically takes 10 to 12 days to complete. However, there are also other shorter routes that can be accomplished in 6-7 days. Therefore, it depends on the path you choose to begin your trek. This trip has the number of beginning and ending locations. It takes more days to finish if you wish to start at Nayapul and trek via Ghandruk, Ghorepani to the Base Camp and concludes at Jhinu Danda.

What kind of accommodations and meals do I expect on this trek?

Don’t expect luxurious accommodations like in the city areas. It is a Himalayan classic tea house trek. So, you will get cozy twin-sharing bed accommodations at local lodges during the trek. Most of the lodges do not have an attached toilet. So, you have to share toilets with other people. And you have to pay extra for the hot shower, battery charging and use of internet. 

Comparable to other treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a similar menu. Dal bhat, a meal of rice, lentils, and curry, is the primary local food. Every morning, you may choose from tea, coffee, porridge, boiled eggs, or an omelet for breakfast. For lunch or dinner, you may choose dal bhat, fries, spaghetti, pizza, or fried rice. 

Gurung Bread, a deep-fried bread, and Rosti, a full potato dish fried in a pan like a patty, are two unusual meals to eat on this walk. If you’re really hungry, get this with two eggs on top. The price of the meals and accommodations may rise as the altitude increases. 

Best Time to Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

The best season for this trek is from March to June and beginning of September to the last of November. But, must be cautious and beware from avalanches during monsoon season. The trek leads you to terrain of glaciers. Monsoon season is not recommendable to do this trek.

Standard itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara (850m) – 7 hrs drive

Day 03: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk (1,990m) – 5 hrs trek

Day 04: Trek to Chhomrong (2210m) – 5 hrs trek

Day 05: Trek to Bamboo (2350m) – 5 hrs trek

Day 06: Trek to Deaurali (3140m) – 5 hrs trek

Day 07: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)

Day 08: Trek back to Bamboo (2350m) – 6 hrs trek

Day 09: Trek to Jhinu Danda (hot springs) (1780m) – 5 hrs trek

Day 10: Trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara – 6 hrs trek

Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu

Day 12: Departure from Nepal

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Manaslu Circuit Trek – Unspoiled Himalayan Region in Nepal

Trip Overview

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is comparatively a new trekking circuit trail and is getting more popular as a new trekking destination in Nepal. The magnificence of Mt. Manaslu, as the eighth highest mountain in the world, is the special attraction of this trek. The region sees less than 10% trekkers compared to other established trekking routes in the Manaslu region, which makes the trail remain peaceful. Thus the region is a blessing for anyone seeking peace and happiness amidst nature. Manaslu Circuit Trek is rich in its beauty with the inclusion of isolated and off beaten trail, as only a few people, actually decide to make the trek. It is favorable for those who want to explore the off the beaten track and lesser-visited mountain on the Great Himalaya Trail. The circuit is a remarkable trek with magnificent views of Mount Manaslu (8156m) and the Ganesh Himal Range, among others. As you move along the trek route you will find climatic, vegetation, cultural, wildlife diversity, and encounter an interesting blend of authentic Hindu and Tibetan-style Buddhist villages along with the trial. See several of the tallest mountains in the world, experience the cultures, and enjoy a physical challenge.
Trek safely, with a local guide without the fear of getting lost.
There are basic guesthouses all along the trail so you can decide if you want to camp or stay at the teahouses/guesthouses.

You can merge the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley, a beautiful, secluded valley where century-old Tibetan traditions prevail. The trek is usually done on a basic teahouse basis unless you want to go off route where camping is the only possibility.

How Manaslu Circuit is different from other regions Treks?

Unlike other treks and routes, this trek circumnavigates around Mt. Manaslu, making a complete circle, which will grant you an opportunity to have a 360-degree view of Mt. Manaslu making this trek unique and different to other treks.

The upper valley is in the Manaslu region is highly influenced by Tibetan culture which will serve as a phenomenal chance to enrich your cultural knowledge amidst the staggering views of mountains and beautiful landscape.

Besides, Manaslu Circuit trek can easily be reached on 6-7 hrs drive from Kathmandu, while treks on other restricted regions of Nepal are only attainable by domestic flight.

Plus, less than ten percent trekkers go to Manaslu, so the fewer visitors and remoteness also adds more exclusiveness to this trek, which is filled among absolute serene ambiance and isolated areas never leaving behind the peace of mind and the calm routes.

Trip Highlights

  • Eight highest peaks of the world Mt. Manaslu (8156 meters) and various towering mountain views surroundings.
  • The diverse range of wildlife and vegetation.
  • Explore the primitive life of the village people of the Manaslu region.
  • Adventure of the Larke La and 360-degree amazing mountain vistas.
  • Peace and less crowded trek.

Trip Facts
Trekking Duration: Min 13  to 20 days
Maximum elevation: 5,200 meters
Trek grade: Moderate
Best Season: March to May and September to November
Transport: Jeep and Bus
Distance of each day hike: 12 to 18 KM
General Itinerary :   Kathmandu > Soti Khola > Machha Khola > Jagat > Ekkli Bhatti > Bihi > Lihi > Samagaun > Dharamsala > Bhimphedi > Tilje > Tal > Jagat > Bahundada >Beshisahar > Kathmandu
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Mandatory 

As the trek happens to be in the restricted region of Nepal, you will need special restricted Manaslu area permits from immigration with the help of a local company. As addressed by the government for safety purposes, two trekkers are compulsory for the trek with an authorized trekking guide and the followings are the permits required for the trek:

– Manaslu restricted area special trekking permit.
– MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit)
– ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
– TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System)

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