Food on Annapurna Base Camp Trek-13 Days
Trekking to the world's 9th highest mountain is truly an adventure of a lifetime. On the 13-day Annapurna Sanctuary trek, you'll find a convenient and diverse selection of food items available at the tea houses. These meals, prepared by the local community of the Annapurna conservation area, are both common and hygienic, ensuring you stay well-nourished throughout your journey.
Common Breakfast Options:
- Tibetan Breads (fried bread, also called Gurung bread in the Annapurna area)
- Chapati with Cheese (local wheat bread)
- Oatmeal
- French toast with jam, honey, and peanut butter
- Corn Flakes
- Hashed brown, fried, scrambled, and boiled eggs
- Pancakes
- Porridge with milk
- Muesli
- Vegetable items
- Various hot drinks (except espresso and Americano)
Common Lunch Options:
- Different varieties of Thukpa (noodle soup)
- Dahl and Bhat (Nepalese local meal)
- Momos (dumplings)
- Tibetan/Chapati bread
- Macaroni
- Spaghetti
- Sherpa Stew
- Various soups
- Steaks
- Potato dishes
- Sandwiches
- Pizza
- Rice with curry
- Spring rolls
- Burgers
- Yak steak
- Desserts
Common Dinner Options:
- Momos (dumplings)
- Different varieties of Thukpa (noodle soup)
- Dahl and Bhat (Nepalese local meal)
- Tibetan/Chapati bread
- Macaroni
- Spaghetti
- Sherpa Stew
- Various soups
- Steaks
- Potato dishes
- Sandwiches
- Pizza
- Rice with curry
- Spring rolls
- Ramen soups
- Burgers
- Yak steak
- Desserts
Hot and cold drinks
The meals provided in the tea houses are fresh, healthy, and prepared hygienically to cater to mountain trekkers.
At the tea houses, you'll find many non-vegetarian items on the menu. However, we don't recommend consuming meat in high-altitude areas due to concerns about sanitation and health. We strongly advise avoiding meat, alcoholic drinks, and smoking during your trek.
Dessert and Snack Options: Rice pudding, apple pie, fresh fruits, Snickers/Mars bars, popcorn, cakes, and pastries.
Hot Drink Options: A variety of hot drinks such as black or milk coffee, black tea, mint tea, ginger tea, green tea, lemon honey tea, hot chocolate, and hot fruit juices like mango, orange, and pineapple.
Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Conservation Area contains the majority of trekking routes in the Annapurna region, including Annapurna Base Camp. In order to conserve the ecosystem and improve hiker safety, the Nepalese government felt it was vital to safeguard nature and create a better trail system. Therefore, you must obtain the Annapurna circuit trekking permit and TIMS permit for the Annapurna conservation region, before beginning your trek.
Annapurna Conservation Area permit
ACAP, also known as ANCAP, is an entry permit specifically created for the Annapurna Area and stands for Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), which was started in 1986 and covers an area of 7629 square kilometres, is overseen by the Nepal Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). Hence, the protected area must be entered as part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, hence trekkers must obtain an ACAP permit.
Cost of ACAP permit
The cost of the ACAP permit depends on your nationality. The cost of the permit is the same whether you stay in ACA for 5 days, 10 days, or more.
The charge information is as follows:
For SAARC nationals, the price is NPR 200 per person (around USD 2).
For foreigners who are not SAARC nationals, the cost is NPR 3,000 per person (about USD $30).
Children under the age of 10 do not need an ACAP permit. Therefore, they are free to use.
Why is ACAP important?
A protected area containing a variety of wildlife, ACA. The protected area, according to the NTNC, is home to 1,226 species of flowering plants, 105 species of animals, 518 species of birds, 23 species of amphibians, and 40 species of reptiles. Due to security concerns, it is not possible to allow anyone to access a protected area arbitrarily. The National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act intends for
Since 1973, NTNC has supervised traveller admission into this area by authorizing it. One of the main activities involved in the circuit trip is entering the protected area to take in its richness. As a result, obtaining an ACAP permit is now required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. A protected environment with such diversity needs management, and NTNC provides it.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS)
Every foreigner walking in Nepal on popular trails, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek, is required to have a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permit. The acquisition of a TIMS permit is not necessary for all trekking routes, though. Additionally, trekking in restricted zones like Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo is not permitted by TIMS permits. For trekking in locations that are considered to be in the restricted zone, a special trekking permit must be obtained from the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu. Only TIMS permits will be accepted for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Nepal Trekking Agencies Association jointly issued the permit (TAAN).
Cost of TIMS permit
TIMS permit costs vary depending on whether you are walking alone or with a group and whether you are a citizen of SAARC or not. Additionally, the cost of the TIMS permit is unrelated to how long your expedition will last. The cost of a TIMS permit is:
NPR 1,000 per person (about $10) for treks that are arranged through a company. In this instance, the issued permission is blue in color.
For independent trekkers, NPR 2,000 per person (about USD $20) is required (going without a guide or a porter). In this instance, the issued permit is green.
For SAARC nationals trekking with a company, the cost is NPR 300 per person (about $3).
For SAARC nationals trekking independently, the cost is NPR 600 per person (about $6).
Why is the TIMS permit important?
You need a TIMS permit for your own safety. The TIMS permit makes it easier for you and the stakeholders to monitor your travels.
At each checkpoint along the walking trail, after you provide your TIMS permission, you will be added to the system. If you get into an accident or go missing on the path, this can be very helpful for you.
A rescue operation is launched if you fail to check in at a particular checkpoint after an estimated amount of time has passed since the last check-in because it is seen as a sign of an accident or loss of track.
As a result, it's crucial for you to check in at each checkpoint, and your TIMS permit serves as proof of that check-in.
How to get ACAP and TIMS permits?
For each of these two permissions, you must complete out a separate application form. You must provide two copies of your most current passport—one for the TIMS permission and one for the ACAP permit—along with your application.
Two copies of passport size pictures each for ACAP permit and TIMS permit are also required. The permits' fees must be paid in Nepali rupees (NPR).
You can access TIMS and ACAP on
Exhibition Road, Bhrikuti Mandap, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Kathmandu
Dam Side, Pokhara-based Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)
You can also get ACAP entry permit in Besisahar, Lamjung which is 79 km away form Pokhara. Moreover, you can get TIMS from TAAN Lakeside office in Santi Patan, Pokhara.
Packing list for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Several pairs of thermal tops
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker jacket
- Down jacket (provided by the company if you don't have one)
- Comfortable fleece or wool trousers
- At least 2 pairs of trekking pants
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Warm hiking socks
- Trekking shoes with extra laces
- Pair of flip flops
- Underwear and swimwear
- Cotton hiking trousers and t-shirts
- Sun hat or scarf
- Sunglasses
- Sleeping bag (provided by the company if you don't have one)
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Daypack (40 liters or more)
- Headlamp
- Small lock for the daypack
- Reusable water bottles (2 liters)
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Washcloth
- Toiletries (wet wipes, quick-drying towel, toilet paper, moisturizers, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, small mirror, toothpaste and toothbrush, etc.)
- Rain poncho
- Basic personal first aid kit
Difficulty Level of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
After Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp is located at a height of 4130 meters, and this trek path is one of the most well-known and picturesque trekking routes in Nepal. Both experienced and novice trekkers enjoy this trek equally.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is not regarded as being a challenging trek because it is quite adventurous and requires slow, steady walking. Therefore, this journey is regarded as moderate.
Trek difficulties determine the trekking grades. The Annapurna Base camp Trek takes you to an elevation of up to 4,130m/13,549ft. Annapurna Base Camp trekking is a moderate trek even though it has various obstacles. This trek is not too strenuous. It has some sort of difficulties like steep and rugged trekking trails, walking over the stone stairs, continuous walking of 5 to 6 hours per day and so on. However, this trek is easily achievable if you have patience, confidence, and are physically fit. So before starting your trekking you should know the Annapurna base Camp difficulties and prevention to Annapurna base camp trekking.
Distance
The distance to Annapurna Base Camp is one of the main determinants of its difficulty. You will be walking 10 to 20 kilometres per day on this 115 km-long hike. In comparison to other long-distance treks like the Manaslu Circuit Walk, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Kanchenjunga Trek, and many others, the distance covered by this trek is rather modest. An unskilled trekker may take longer to complete the daily walking distance than an experienced trekker. Therefore, the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is perhaps the ideal for novices. It would be better if you choose 12-14 days Annapurna Base Camp itinerary if you are a beginner for mountain climbing.
The Annapurna Base Camp trail is a simpler trekking route, allowing us to take in the stunning Himalayan flora and wildlife, but the rocky mountain terrains are more arduous and demanding than the hilly trails. This trek's mountain trail is rough and occasionally steep. The trail for this walking is covered in snow during the winter months when the temperature is below zero degrees Celsius. Adventure hiking is fairly demanding and challenging, but during certain seasons, there is also a lot of traffic on the trekking trails.
Duration
Normally, it takes 11 to 14 days to complete the trek to Annapurna Base Camp, but if you're pressed for time, you can finish it in 8 to 9 days. You must walk for 5 to 6 hours per day on average. If you're not used to walking or hiking, it may even take you 7 to 8 hours to reach your target for the day. You can experience anxiety and other issues as a result of this. The route for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is determined by the packages created by several trekking companies in Nepal. However, our team at Nepal Horizon Treks will customize the tour itinerary in accordance with your schedule and interests.
Trekkers must improve their stamina and daily walking capacity to get through the Annapurna Base Camp challenge related to duration. They ought to try long-distance walking, hike, and engage in physical activity by climbing and descending hills and valleys. You will become more accustomed to walking and have a more comfortable vacation as a result of all these preparations.
Altitude sickness
There is always a chance of altitude sickness while hiking in a high-altitude area. The majority of the Annapurna Base Camp itinerary starts in Kathmandu, which is located at an elevation of 1300 meters (4,265 feet), and finishes up ascending as high as 4130 meters (13,549 feet) in just a few days. Higher elevations have fewer oxygen levels, making it difficult for your body to adapt to a new environment. When you cross 3,000m/9,842ft, you could start to feel uneasy from the height change and unfamiliar surroundings.
High altitude might cause major issues like dizziness, nausea, headache, vomiting, tiredness, shortness of breath, etc. Such issues will undoubtedly make your trip as a whole rather challenging. Ignoring altitude sickness symptoms will make things worse. Therefore, it is recommended to travel back to a lower altitude area anytime you start to experience any of these symptoms. Additionally, we advise you to take a drug like Diamox, which aids in preventing altitude sickness. Keep oneself hydrated, abstain from smoking and drinking, eat a healthy diet, and acclimate to reduce the likelihood of experiencing the negative effects of altitude sickness.
At least a month before you plan to go on your real expedition, go hiking for a few hours every day. This will enable your body to maintain equilibrium with the surroundings as you steadily gain altitude while hiking uphill. Maintaining your diet and eating warm soup are additional effective ways to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
At such a high altitude, alcohol use is not advised. Although there are some medications available to avoid altitude sickness, it is advised that you rest and take preventative measures rather than using medications.
Weather and temperature
Since the weather in the mountain region is unpredictable, weather and temperature are the two main factors that might seriously complicate a hiking path. The weather, environment, season, and altitude condition all play a role in how quickly the temperature can vary.
The best time of year to hike to Annapurna Base Camp is in the autumn because of the favourable weather and quiet mountain conditions during this time of year. Following autumn, spring is the best time of year to go trekking in the Annapurna region because the days are so lovely and charming, we can experience the lush and lovely Himalayan flora and fauna, stroll through the green terraced fields, and take in the breathtaking and moving views of the snow-capped mountain peaks.
The weather at Annapurna Base Camp undergoes abrupt fluctuations throughout the winter months of December, January, and February when the temperature varies from 9.3°C (48.74°F) to -20°C (-4°F). While trekking, the cold gets intolerable and is challenging. Higher altitude regions still have the majority of their teahouses closed. Similar to this, throughout the summer/monsoon months of June, July, and August, temperatures range from 19°C (66.2°F) to 4°C (39.2°F), causing a strong sun haze and copious amounts of precipitation. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is extremely hazardous and difficult during the winter. In this season, there is a chance for significant snowfall, and the daytime low can drop to minus 17 degrees centigrade and the nighttime high can be below zero.
Himalayan cough
As one travels higher in altitude, the presence of a persistent dry cough in an individual is known as Himalayan Cough. The dry cough mirrors the ascent of the height, rising with it. It assumes a furious shape, occasionally causes a severe dry state, and frequently causes considerable discomfort in the inner neck area. It is one of the most prevalent problems at higher elevations. Furious, protracted coughing that can even tear the chest muscle can be the most severe symptom of the Himalayan cough. If you exert all of your effort, it's incredibly effective.
Type of trekkers
The Annapurna Base Camp trekking trials won't be too challenging for professional and seasoned hikers and trekkers. Anyone who has the stamina to walk on difficult terrain for 5 to 6 hours each day at high altitudes can do this trek in great comfort and without difficulty. This journey will be different for those who have never hiked or trekked in the mountainous area, and it will take longer to complete than the ordinary trekker does. It is advised that you develop the habit of waking up hills and downhills for a few hours each day to prevent the challenges of this walk, as was previously described. Your walking strength will increase as a result.
It will be very challenging for you to walk on the rough and steep routes. Hiring a porter would be a great idea if you wanted to take in the scenery and have a relaxing stroll. During an adventure hike, porters assist you in carrying your belongings because it is not a good idea to carry large loads uphill and through mountainous terrain at high altitude, where the oxygen concentration is lower than at sea level.
Hiring a porter and seasoned Himalayan hikers who are proficient in the language would enable you to enjoy the trip and have a more comfortable day while covering the 115 km of trails.
Lack of training
One of Nepal's most renowned, dependable, and traditional treks is to Annapurna Base Camp since the path is not challenging or steep. The trail that goes to the base camp of the majestic, snow-capped peak that is the 10th highest in the world might be difficult for inexperienced mountain hikers. Therefore, if this is your first time hiking in a mountainous area, you must make the greatest preparation possible.
Before embarking on their adventure to the Annapurna region, trekkers should begin their 6-week training program to ensure that their bodies are healthy, physically active, and in good condition. Nearly 5–6 hours per day of walking is recommended.
If you haven't had any prior preparation, you may have a difficult time catching up to your group and may even have to abandon the adventure trek owing to a lack of stamina and endurance.
Trekking downhill is simpler than climbing uphill. Even a brief period of walking at a higher altitude or uphill will make you feel exhausted. As there is much less oxygen up in the mountains at high altitudes, descending towards the lower region is easier than rising uphill to the higher height.
Budget
Trekking in Nepal is affordable due to the lower cost of living there than in other places. However, in the upper regions, budget management could be a little pricey. People in the high region only use porters and animals for trade because there are still no adequate roads for vehicles. The price of the same product in the lower and higher regions may vary significantly. The product is three times higher compared to the product in lower altitude. Additionally, as there are no ATMs in high altitudes, it is advised to bring enough cash with you on this hike. You need extra money during your trek for your personal expenses.
Frostbites
Your feet can suffer from the cold, but it can also lead to other issues. In the mountains especially at higher altitudes, temperatures drop quickly and the weather is erratic. To prevent severe frostbite on your legs, it is advisable that you wear boots that are extremely cozy and protective. Running shoes won't be enough in that intense cold or meet the necessities. Prior to going outside, make sure your clothing is entirely dry and warm.
The condition known as frostbite is characterized by the freezing of the tissues beneath the skin. The skin is not permanently harmed when frostbite first develops. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, cold skin, and irritated or discolored skin. Hands and feet are most commonly impacted by frostbite. Numbness and clumsiness are typically the first symptoms, followed by a possible white or blue tingle on the skin. The effects of therapy may cause swelling or rupture. Frostbite can potentially lead to hypothermia and limb loss. The risk of frostbite, which can worsen conditions if ignored, is one of the main challenges of climbing to greater altitudes.
Frostbite can be prevented and reduced by dressing appropriately, consuming meals and liquids, avoiding low temperatures, and minimizing vigorous exertion while keeping a healthy core temperature.
Make the adventure trip to Annapurna Base Camp if you have a strong desire to go trekking and experience the lovely Himalayan flora and fauna, the beauty of nature, stunning adventure, and want to be far from the rushing and bustling throng and the busy life of the city. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most stunning and challenging hiking routes. More than 35000 individuals take the adventurous journey to the Annapurna base camp. To face all the challenges and issues of the trek, preparation and moderate, steady walking are essential. The close-up view of the tenth-highest mountain in the world should be sufficient inspiration despite all the challenges.
Annapurna base camp helicopter trek?
Our Nepal Horizon team also prepare 9 day Annapurna Base Camp Heli trek package for you. This is a quick journey to Nepal's Annapurna region. You can take an Annapurna Helicopter Tour from Pokhara or Kathmandu. It is a popular helicopter travel location around the globe. You will fly over many kinds of wood, villages, rivers, and agricultural terrains in just a few hours while taking this helicopter tour to Annapurna at the most affordable price. Along with this, you may enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre, Himchuli, and Myriads mountains.
The Nepali Annapurna Himalayas may be explored in about four hours with a heli tour to ABC. The voyage to the Nepalese Himalayas is purposeful and unforgettable. Any age group and physical condition can take an Annapurna Heli tour. Many tourists are eager to visit the site since the Annapurna base camp trek is one of the well-known treks in Nepal, a country surrounded by the Himalayas. We know you have a very busy time, so we prepared this package for you to complete your trek in a very short period of time and offers you a quick glimpse of the Annapurna region. During your journey to Annapurna Base Camp heli trek you can glimpse the pananromic view of Annapurna mountian along with other high range mountains too. Additionally, you will explore the sherpa and nepali culture and village.
Water on Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 13 DaysWater is readily available at every trekking lodge or shop along the way, with bottled mineral water costing around 1-3 USD per liter. The Annapurna region has many water sources where you can refill your bottle from taps or natural sources. While this water is generally safe to drink, it's advisable to use a LifeStraw or water purification pills. It's recommended to drink at least 2-4 liters of water per day to stay hydrated.
Booking and payment process
Nepal Horizon Treks (P) Ltd. is a fully licensed and government-approved trekking and adventure company in Nepal, with registration number 148253/72/073. Our affiliations with various local and international tourism bodies allow us to provide top-notch services. We warmly invite adventure lovers to join us and become a part of our "mountain family," offering a home-like experience during your travels with us.
To secure your booking, we require a 10% deposit of the total trip cost in advance. This ensures that we can arrange all necessary reservations, including hotels, guides, trekking permits, and transportation. The remaining balance can be settled upon arrival, with cash being preferred, though credit cards are also accepted. Additionally, please send your passport details, travel insurance information, and flight details when making your booking.
Last-minute booking
Travelers can make last-minute bookings up to one day before the trip begins. For these bookings, full payment is required at the time of reservation. You can secure your spot by filling out our online form, sending us an email, messaging us on WhatsApp, or giving us a call.
Our dedicated team emphasizes our shared responsibility to honor local culture and preserve the environment. We advocate for:
- Respecting local laws, customs, and beliefs.
- Seeking permission from guides before engaging in activities within the community.
- Maintaining cleanliness and properly disposing of waste.
- Supporting initiatives that benefit local communities and promote sustainable tourism.
- Nepal Horizon Treks actively participates in the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) and organizes eco-conscious trips to foster environmental awareness among travelers and communities alike.
Safety and Satisfactions during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 13 Days
PRIORITIZING YOUR SAFETY - Our utmost concern is the well-being of our clients and staff members.
Throughout this guided trek, you'll be accompanied by experienced and amiable trekking guides or Sherpas hailing from the same mountainous regions of Nepal. Equipped with essential safety gear and a first aid kit, our guides ensure your safety at every step. While we recommend bringing personal medications, rest assured that we're prepared to handle emergencies. In case of mountain sickness or unforeseen circumstances, our team stands ready to arrange helicopter rescues for prompt evacuation to lower altitudes or Kathmandu.
Accommodation Option on Annapurna Base Camp Trek- 13 Days
Accommodations on the mountain are simple, typically found in tea houses or trekking lodges. Rooms are usually shared, equipped with wooden beds, blankets, mattresses, and pillows. While attached bathrooms aren't available everywhere, the views from these rooms are spectacular. Single rooms are available, except at Himalaya and ABC, and are provided for solo female travelers.
Rest assured, we'll ensure your stay at the best available tea houses, offering magnificent mountain views and scenic surroundings throughout the trek.
In Kathmandu, a wide range of luxury hotels awaits your selection. Should you desire, we're happy to assist in booking 4 to 5-star accommodations upon request.
