Experience a modern day utopia in the revered Annapurna region of Nepal that puts heaven and other medieval fantasies to shame. The majestic Annapurna (8091m) and Dhaulagiri (8167m) are the major attraction of this region, and the best way to apprehend its irresistible charm is by undertaking the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Travelers relish at the sight of the roaring Kaligandaki River, radiant Gurung culture, awe-inspiring bio-diversity, and the ingenious creation of nature-the Himalayas. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is rather a story than a journey in which the characters are you yourself, the sublime teahouses, and more importantly the silent Himalayas.
As such, the drama begins to unfold from the Kathmandu valley. On the first day, you shall explore the valley and spend some time knowing the guides and porters who shall accompany you during the trek. Head to the Pokhara valley, the gateway of the Annapurna region, via air or road, and admire the numerous landmarks it possess namely the Phewa, Rupa, and Begnas Lakes. The trek starts from Nayapul, and you’ll walk through forested trails to arrive at the Gurung village of Ghandruk. Enjoy the surreal view of Machhapuchhre (6997m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and Annapurna (8091m) from the KimrongDanda and walk on the banks of the Kimrong Khola to arrive at Chhomrong. The path to Bamboo goes through stone steps and after you conquer the uphill climb, Sinuwa welcomes you. The downhill trail leads you to Bamboo and you have to cross lush bamboo forests to reach Deurali and can visit the Hinku cave en route. From Deurali, we walk on the steep trails tothe Machhapuchhre Base Camp which provides us spectacular views of the Annapurna mountain range.You can also see that the vegetation slowly transforms into the snow, rocks, and alpine steppe environs. Thereon, the trek to ABC ensues. Annapurna Base Camp gives the opportunity to witness the sheer magnitude of the Annapurna Mountains. We retrace the trail back to Bamboo and descend to Chhomrong Khola. The naturalhot springs at Jhinu Danda give us time to relax our tired souls. We A short walk while admiring the amazing destination leads us to Nayapul, then to Pokhara and ultimately to Kathmandu where the endearing journey shall end.
The higher altitudes of the Annapurna region are, obviously, severely cold so, you should properly check the time and weather before trekking. The best time to venture into the Annapurna Base Camp is from October to November. During these months, the weather is clear and it’s neither too hot nor too cold. This is also the peak trekking season in Nepal, so, there is bound to be heavy traffic. During the winter and rainy seasons, the route sees less traffic but you might have to compensate the views of the Himalayas during these seasons.
A certain level of physical fitness is mandatory to take the Annapurna Base Camp trek as you need to indulge in lots of heavy climbing. People with leg problems are advised notto take this trek. In the trekking journey, you have to carry a bit of essential that you'll need throughout the trek. They are enlisted below
- Water bottles
- Backpack
- Trekking shoes
- Swiss knife
- Flashlight
- Hand sanitizer
- Trek pants
- Sunblock and Lip Balms
- First Aid
Altitude Sickness is also prevalent while trekking the Annapurna region, where symptoms such as a headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath mark an individual of suffering from the sickness. The common preventions for altitude sickness are:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Take proper time in acclimatizing to the high altitude.
- Bring proper medications.
- Ensure sufficient sleep and rest.
- Take light baggage to prevent strain on the body while trekking.
- In case a person is affected by it, immediate descent from the current altitude is a must and other treatments come thereafter.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is once in a lifetime trek that must be experienced rather than read to witness the true scale of its magnificence and grandeur. Not just an affair with the Annapurnas, the ABC trek involves immersing yourself in the tender care and hospitality of the Gurung communities spread throughout the trail. All in all, the enchanting journey is truly an exemplary trek and a must-do!
