11/07/2025
How to prepare for Annapurna base camp trek for all?
Preparing for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is essential to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and successful adventure. Here’s a complete guide to help you get ready:
🗓 First: Best Time to Go
Spring (Mar–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Best weather, festive season and visibility.
Avoid: Monsoon (Jun–Aug) due to leeches and landslides; winter (Dec–Feb) for snow risks and not good visibility.
🏋️ Second: Physical Preparation
ABC Trek is moderately challenging (4,130 m). Start training at least 6–8 weeks before.
Training Tips:
Cardio: Hiking, jogging, cycling – 4–5 days/week.
Strength: Focus on legs, core, and back.
Hikes: Do 5–6 hour hikes with a backpack.
Stairs or hill climbing to build stamina.
🧳 Third: Packing List
Bring light but warm and weather-proof gear.
Clothing:
Moisture-wicking base layers
Fleece jacket & down jacket
Waterproof jacket & pants
Trekking pants and thermal wear
Gloves, warm hat, sunhat
Hiking socks & trekking boots (well broken-in)
Gear:
Sleeping bag (rated -10°C or rented in Pokhara)
Trekking poles
Headlamp
Reusable water bottles & water purification tablets
Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
Other Essentials:
First-aid kit (with altitude meds)
Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
Toiletries & quick-dry towel
Passport & permits (see below)
📝 Fourth: Permits Required
ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project)
You can get both in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
🛌 Fifth: Accommodation & Food
Teahouses along the route offer basic lodging & local meals.
Carry cash (no ATMs after Pokhara).
Try local dal bhat, momo, noodles, and drink lots of fluids.
💡 Sixth: Altitude Awareness
ABC sits at 4,130m – AMS is a risk.
Tips to avoid AMS:
Ascend slowly
Stay hydrated
Rest at least one acclimatization day (often at Chhomrong)
Consider taking Diamox after consulting a
doctor
Follow your guide proper instruction
🚶 Seventh: Typical Itinerary (7–11 Days)
Most common route: Nayapul – Ghandruk – Chhomrong – Himalaya – ABC and back via Jhinu Danda (hot springs!)
Example 10-Day Itinerary:
Pokhara to killu, trek to Ghandruk
Ghandruk to Chhomrong
Chhomrong to Dovan
Dovan to Deurali
Deurali to ABC
ABC to Bamboo
Bamboo to Jhinu Danda
Jhinu to Pokhara
👣 Eight: With or Without a Guide?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended for safety, local insights, and logistics.
Porters can also help carry your load (usually up to 15 kg).
📶 Ninth: Connectivity & Charging
WiFi is available (paid) in many teahouses.
Carry a power bank or solar charger.
NTC SIM card has better reception in the region.
🧠 Tenth: Mental Preparation
Be prepared for long trekking hours, basic comforts, and changing weather.
Stay positive, go slow, and enjoy the majestic Annapurna range!
Those are the things you should have to consider before setting your epic journey in the Himalayas, if you want more details, follow our website here;
www.thehimalayanodyssey.com
