Annapurna Base Camp; Best Place to Begin your Trekking Journey.
If you are looking forward to trek and don’t know where to start then good option for you is Annapurna Base Camp trekking. Located at West of Kathmandu, this adventurous trekking provides view some of the highest peaks in the world like Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. One of the most beautiful trekking destinations in Nepal, with stunning views of the Himalayas such as Machhapuchre (Fish Tail) Himchuli, Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri, and many other peaks. The area is rich in flora and fauna, as well as beautiful seasonal wild flowers. On the way, one will come across a natural hot spring where one must relax. Starting from a place known as Pokhara which has unpolluted air, a spectacular backdrop of snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, and surrounding greenery, and stunning natural beauty. Many trekkers find this fantasy land moving uphill to Ulleri followed by gentle sunrays of Poonhill followed by beautiful glossy mountains and descending to the culture and tradition of Ghandruk.
Pokhara is also considered as trekkers’ capital as many popular trekking begins and ends at this place. It is ending point for Annapurna Circuit trekking and starting point of trekking at region of mustang. The Upper Mustang Trekking starts from Pokhara as you will take a flight to Jomsom from Pokhara.
Annapurna base camp trekking is moderately challenging trek filled with adventure, stunning scenery, and enriching experiences. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Massif, glaciers, diverse landscapes, and abundant biodiversity. Traverse through charming settlements and villages inhabited by the Gurung and Magar communities, each with its unique culture and traditions. Immerse yourself in their distinct lifestyle, adding a unique dimension to your journey. Following the Modi Kola, the trail winds through a dense forest boasting lush rhododendrons, bamboo, and alpine trees. This hike doesn’t demand an exceptionally high level of fitness, as we firmly believe that reaching the Base Camp at 4130m is an achievable and promise a beautiful journey filled with lasting memories of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Annapurna region is one of the perfect destination for less experienced trekkers. It is also recommended for those who want to experience trekking but are concerned about time. There are many guesthouses and restaurants, as well as some shops that sell daily necessities. There is no need to worry about getting lost as the trail is well marked.
The best season for trekking at trails of Annapurna Base Camp is between March to May, followed by September to November. Although hiking is still possible in December and January, the winter conditions are a little icy due to temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. If you can walk in snow, you can enjoy the winter scenery as well. However, it is not suggested to do this trek on winter season.
Food and Accommodation
They do have menu offering variety of cuisine from Continental, Asian and others but the taste and quality may differ. Dal Bhat tends to be the good food packed with all nutrients like carb, protein minerals etc. Dal Bhat is usually a rice and lentils with greens and meat. However, it is suggested to avoid meat items while on trekking as it might lead you altitude sickness. It is also better if you do not have any alcoholic beverage as well. The restriction on food and beverage is for the elevation of 3000m and above as in such circumstance the air is thin and the digestive system needs oxygen to breaks down food and uses muscular contractions to move food through the digestive tract. The lodging options available during the trek are generally modest, providing clean facilities but without modern luxuries. While most places offer private bathrooms, at higher elevations, shared bathrooms may be more common. They do charge few dollars for hot water showers as well.
During the trek up to the base camp, drinking water will be available at the teahouses through taps, boiling or bottled water. It is advisable to use water purification solutions such as Striepen to ensure safe drinking water. Bottled water are really expensive so purification tablets are very good option. There are electricity available at every tea house everywhere on the trails. You can recharge your phone and electrical devices. You have to pay nominal charge in many places in order to charge your electronics. They do offer paid Wi-Fi service and charge hourly. Expecting high speed connectivity on remote trail could be unrealistic due to geographical limitation.