Annapurna base camp trek difficulty

Annapurna base camp trek is the moderate trekking in Annapurna conservation area with the least difficulties. It is the most popular trekking where we can enjoy the mind-blowing view of Mount Annapurna: 10th highest peak in the world. The Annapurna base camp is located at 4130 m. The high elevation possesses the possibility of altitude sickness as the major difficulty of ABC trekking.

How hard is Annapurna base camp trek?

Annapurna base camp trek is the best trekking that offers stunning views of Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhare (fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, and many more mountain peaks. It is flexible trekking for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The moderately challenging uphills, staircases, and rocky trial makes adventure trekking with increasing your breath. Even the well experienced trekkers need rest while passing the uphills of Deurali. 

Possible Factors of Annapurna base camp difficulties

Altitude

Annapurna base camp altitude is 13,550 feet/4,130m which is in less elevation as compared to Everest base camp at 5364 m. This elevation is enough to cause acute mountain sickness. If we trek at a high pace, then we will suffer from altitude sickness which may be deadly if not cured on time. The Annapurna base camp trek begins from Nayapul located at an elevation of 1070 m. The ABC is the highest elevation of this trekking route which rises 3160m higher than Nayapul. Gaining 3000 m within three days can increase the risk of altitude sickness. 

Methods to prevent altitude sickness in Annapurna base camp trek

• Drinking plenty of water and hydrating the body
• Walking slowly
• Eating hygienic food
• Taking a good sleep

Note: If altitude sickness reaches a severe condition, then we should return to lower elevation or we should evacuate to Kathmandu or Pokhara for medical treatment. 

Long and steep trekking route 

Overall trekking to Annapurna base camp is moderate but some sections of ABC trekking route are difficult. We should walk for a long time, i.e. 7-8 hours daily to reach our destination. The ascending and descending route from Chhomrong to Himalaya hotel and continuous climb from Bamboo to Deurali is challenging. We should do proper exercise and prepare the trek to be able to pass this tough route.

Weather 

The weather in the Annapurna region remains unpredictable, which is one of the factors that increases the difficulty. The rainy days remain more difficult to walk than sunny days. Generally, the days of March, April, May, September, October, and November are the best time for trekking. Weather during summer (June, July, August) and winter (December, January, February) is not so good for visibility of mountains. 

Annapurna base camp route choices

There are two Annapurna base camp trekking routes

• Annapurna base camp classic route

The classic Annapurna base camp trek is seven days hiking that starts from Nayapul and passes through Ghandruk, Sinuwa, Deurali and reaches Annapurna base camp. Even though the route is short, the trekking distance is long and moderately difficult.

• Annapurna base camp combined route

The combined ABC trek is 14 days trekking that includes Poonhill. Trekkers should pass the uphills from Nayapul to Hille, Ghorepani, hike Poonhill and trek to Tadapani, Sinuwa, Deurali and reach Annapurna base camp. It is more challenging than a classic route. 

Tea house availability

There are enough tea houses in Annapurna base camp trekking route. Most of the tea houses are normal with clean rooms and good food. The attached rooms are least available due to the presence of a minimum number of luxury tea houses. We should book earlier to get luxury rooms.

The tea houses remain packed in peak season, so we need to share a common room during April and November. Some tea houses used to be closed during winter season. 

Conclusion

The Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty is moderate. The availability of tea houses, water, wifi, and the best hospitality reduces the difficulties. This trekking route is best for beginners, but there should be proper preparation. We always suggest trekking at the best time (March, April, May, September, October, November) to enjoy the clear view of Annapurna range and its nearby peaks.