Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp - 18 Days

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek

To do this, a combined trip of Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp, the best seasons stand out to be Spring (mid-March to late May), and Autumn (September to November), as during this span of the year, the blooming rhododendrons thrive in the shade of red, with the clear views of mountains and landscapes. During this time frame, the temperature usually ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius and might drop to 0 degrees Celsius to -5 degrees Celsius, near Throung La Pass and the base camp, which is still bearable, considering the fact that it crosses the high elevation above 5000 meters. 

As these particular seasons have the mere chance of precipitation (rainfall and snowfall), the route basically remains dry and easy to undertake, with the captivating views alongside. Due to the mild humidity and stable weather, you can ascend easily without being drained out mentally and physically exhausted, during the daytime, except for the temperature condition, not to go beyond 15 degrees Celsius, within the Annapurna region. Besides, in Autumn, starting from September, the major festivals, such as Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, and several others, fall till the end of November; hence, you get to participate in the boisterous celebration of the locals, gaining a unique insight into the Himalayan adventure.

Besides, trekking to the Annapurna region, in winter and summer, is a bit challenging and not highly recommended, because of the high humidity, high winds, and low temperature, which can go below -10 to -15 degrees Celsius, with a massive amount of rainfall and snowfall. The high precipitation might block the way to the high pass and the base camp as well, which might disrupt the trek in between, if proper guidelines are not followed, with essential gears and weather considerations.

Therefore, for unhindered views of the Himalayan range, and to navigate with ease, without any rapid climatic fluctuations, and avoid the chance of disruption at the same time, the Spring and Autumn seasons are the ideal time to do the Annapurna Sanctuary with the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Difficulty

As it is a combination of both the high altitude treks, this Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp Trek falls under a challenging journey, which can only be done by experienced hikers. The trek usually demands 5 to 7 hours of hiking regularly, with a distance coverage of approximately 12 to 16 kilometers per day, which is quite moderate, considering the fact that it is a high-altitude journey.

However, the strenuous part is not the duration, but the elevation gain that you must go through each day, passing by various kinds of terrains, with continuous uphill walking and descending, for 2-3 hours. The trailhead, while covering the Annapurna circuit route, demands at least a strong physique as the trail is more rugged, steep, and consists of a rocky section, with a crossing of Thorung La Pass at 5416 meters. At the same time, spending on the remote area, with such few facilities and tea houses, is no joke; one must compromise, the premium services and set a proper mindset, hence, a strong mindset and physical fitness are required, so it is suggested to get yourself finely prepared mentally and physically.

On the other hand, the route to Annapurna Base Camp is more gentle, and reaches the highest altitude at 4173 meters, passing through some forested areas, terraced fields, villages, and continuous ascent as well. Meanwhile, you must go along with the licensed trekking guide for safe navigation, as there are many landslide-prone areas and avalanche areas, but they can be easily undertaken by beginners with no prior experience. If you are a beginner, then it is highly suggested to either, choose any of the trips, either Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp, as combining both treks in one single adventure might be too challenging, and experienced hikers must be prepared as well, for the distance coverage and unexpected weather challenges, with proper guidelines and packing overview beforehand.

Altitude Sickness

This Annapurna Sanctuary with Annapurna Circuit Trek crosses the elevation above 5000 meters, with an elevation gain of 400 to 500 meters per day, reaching the highest altitude of 5416 meters above sea level. Trekking to high altitude is one of the challenging aspects of any kind of Himalayan adventure, especially in such an area, where the accessibility to quick medical assistance remains rare, and the only option is the helicopter evacuation, which is covered from your travel insurance, so ensure to get one, for emergency purposes. If you are still wondering. Whether this trek is risky or not, you do not have to worry about situations like severe AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), as such cases are rare if proper guidelines are followed throughout the journey.

On top of that, our Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp itinerary is crafted by a pro expert team, with a gradual ascent of 500 to 700 meters per day, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness, with 1 acclimatization day, before reaching the Thorung La Pass. Throughout the journey, our experienced licensed trekking guide will assist you, ensuring that you are navigating safely through the safe section, avoiding the rapid ascent, which can lead to AMS.

Also, the guides are medically equipped, where they become your first-hand medical assistance when required, for minor injuries occur (just in case), and if such an unexpected condition occurs, then they will act promptly, which will be safe and best for you. Due to the finely crafted package, with a gradual, slow ascent each day, the trip is safe and doesn't possess any risk of altitude sickness. Just hydrate yourself properly and ascend at your own pace, and do not go to higher elevations, beyond the itinerary, if any symptoms like headaches, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, and loss of control, inform the guide immediately, and then he will do what's best for you.

Transportation Facilities

For the 18-day Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the package itself covers the transportation facilities to reach and return from the trekking trail, hence you do not have to pay extra for the vehicle cost. To start the journey, we will take a regular 6-7 hour bus ride to Besisahar, from Gongabu (Balaju), just a few kilometers away from Thamel, Kathmandu, where the trekking guide will come to pick you up at the hotel. Then, after reaching Besisahar, we will take a shared jeep to Dharapani, the starting point of the walking trail.

After descending from Thorung La Pass and reaching Muktinath, we'll take a sharing jeep drive to Tatopani, entering the regular route to Annapurna Base Camp, from where the foot trail starts, and end with a sharing jeep drive from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara. To return to Kathmandu, we will take a luxury tourist bus from Kathmandu, with a 7 to 8 hours of roadway long drive. 

The transportation used on this Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek is basically on a sharing basis, via jeep and bus ride, and comfortable for a long journey; however, if you want to upgrade the transportation to private ones, then you can add extra cost, and upgrade the package. 

Accommodations during the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek with Annapurna Circuit

A total of 17 nights ' accommodation is included in our Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp package, where the lodges and tea houses are well-maintained and hygienic enough to settle in. The bedding configuration will be basically on a sharing basis, at the upper trailheads; hence, you must share your room with one of your fellow partners in your group. If you are trekking solo, then a private room will be provided, ensuring comfort and safety at the same time. Also, take note that, while the lower routes might have private washrooms, at the higher elevation, the bathrooms are generally on the sharing basis in an eastern manner. Each room has cozy bedrooms, pillows, and comfortable blankets, with clean bedding for a comfortable goodnight sleep.

Also, take note that electric sockets and wifi availability aren't available in the room; you must head to the dining area for charging and internet, with an additional cost of $ 3 - $ 5 depending on the hourly basis. On the other hand, other amenities are available in every tea house, such as laundry, hot showers; however, additional cost must be paid for such facilities, as basic requirements become luxury at high elevations and remote areas within the Annapurna region. 

Meals and Drinking Facilities

Throughout the Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp Trekking, the standard meals, including Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, will be provided, with a wide range of options, from asian and local cuisine to Western foods, as it is the famous trailhead of the Himalayas. For breakfast, you can find Tibetan local meals, like Tibetan bread served with egg and curry with a cup of tea or coffee, bread with either jam or butter, oat meals, porridge, muesli, and seasonal dry fruits.

Whereas, for lunch and dinner, you can find similar options, such as the ultimate Dal Bhat served with veg or non-veg curry, lentil soup, pickle, rice, and spinach, which can be refilled as much as you can, that consists of all the nutrients, and keeps you energized for a 5 to 6-hour long-duration hike. Other options like pizza, spring rolls, chowmein, pasta, thenduk, ramen, noodle soups, momo (dumplings) can be found in every tea house. The meals are served in the dining area with heating areas to keep you cozy and warm, where you can interact, along with keen-minded hikers like you. The menu will be provided to you, which you can look over and order accordingly. Also, take note that if you are allergic to some food items, then inform us beforehand. Veg, non-veg, and vegan options are available in every tea house, so mention your dietary preference to either the trekking guide or directly to the locals. 

For the beverage option, from cold drinks, like energy drinks, Coke, Fantas, and hot beverages such as tea, coffee, and hot water are available throughout the trip. Use a water purification tablet to purify the drinking water, or buy bottled water if you are not comfortable with regular tap water, which costs somewhere between $ 0.3 to 0.8 $ per bottled water.

Travel Insurance

Even though this Annapurna Circuit with the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is safe to undertake, travel insurance is compulsorily required as it is a high-altitude trek that crosses over 3000 meters per day, and reaches the 5416 meters at the highest elevation. The accessibility to medical emergencies is difficult, with only a few health services and medical assistance, and if any unfortunate critical condition like altitude sickness occurs (just in case), then the only option is helicopter evacuation, so consider the most important thing on your itinerary, which is heli evacuation over 4000 meters.

Besides, while attaining the insurance, make sure to check thoroughly, and make sure that it includes medical bills, injuries, theft, luggage lost, and trip delay or cancellation at the same time. Having a good policy saves thousands of dollars, and ensures that you hike with a free mind, rather than worrying about what might happen in the future that could ruin the trip due to overthinking. Hence, the insurance for this trek remains mandatory for safety purposes. Also, after booking is made, make sure to send us a photocopy of your insurance policy as well, if you have acquired one. 

What permits are needed for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp?

To do this combined trek to the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp, two permits are required: firstly, the ACAP, and secondly, the TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System Card), where the permits can be obtained either from Pokhara or Kathmandu. After your bookings are made, the required permits will be arranged by us, and it is included in our costing; hence, additional cost is not required. 

The cost of the ACAP permit depends on your nationality, whereas the cost of the TIMS Card remains the same for everyone, individuals, no matter their nationality they carry, and it remains free for children below 10 years old. 

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP cost): NPR 3000 (USD 28 per head) for foreigners and USD 8 (NPR 1000) per head for SAARC nationalities
• Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS Card fee): NPR 2000 (USD 18 per head)

Packing List for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek with Annapurna Circuit

To do the 18-day Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp Trek, at such a high altitude, and a long journey in the remote Himalayan region trekking route, where the weather and climatic conditions are frequently changing, some packing considerations must be made for a smooth journey. Here are some of the packing gears and equipment checklist for the Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp for 18 days:

Clothing Items

• 5-6 Dry Fit T-shirts or Dry Fit T-shirts
• Long-sleeved T-shirts (4 to 5)
• Breathable Lightweight Hiking Pants (2-3)
• Rainproof and windproof jackets (1 to 2)
• Woolen Gloves (screen touchable 1 pair)
• Light Gloves for lower altitudes
• Brimmed Hat, Cap, or scarf to cover up the head from high sun exposure
• Down Jacket or Puffer Jacket
• Comfortable Trousers - to wear in a tea house
• Hiking shorts - to wear at lower altitudes

Footwear

• Hiking Boots - Go rex ( 1 pair)
• Comfortable slippers with proper grip
• Flip Flops - to wear in the tea house comfortably
• 5-7 pairs of cotton socks
• Long socks (3-4 pairs)

Equipments

• Trekking Poles (1 pair) must be adjustable
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV-protected)
• 35 L to 45 L Duffle Bag
• Day Backpack to keep your essentials - 15 L to 20 L
• Waisted Bag - to store gadgets, cash, travel documents
• Sleeping Bag - will be provided by us

Miscellaneous Items

• Travel Documents - permits, passport-sized photos, travel insurance
• Toilettries - Toilet papers (rolls), biodegradable soaps, shampoos, wet wipes or tissues, hand sanitizers, hand towels, etc.
• Power Bank (at least one), extra batteries, and chargers
• First Aid Kit - oximeters, and a water purification tablet
• Skin care - Moisturizers, Lip Balms, Sunscreen SPF 40+, etc.

Booking Procedure

To make your bookings for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp package, you just have to pay 10% of the total trip cost, and the rest of the amount can be paid after you arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal. After your booking is made with us, we will notify you via Gmail or WhatsApp with a receipt of your payment, which will also mention the payment method. The payment can be made either through our website or in person, if you are already in Nepal.

Being a member of TAAN (Trekkers Association Agency of Nepal) and NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association), your booking is safe with us, and in the professional hands, having with more than 2 years. Meanwhile, for the last-minute booking for the Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek, you must pay 100% of the total amount, as we need to arrange all the required logistics at the last minute; however, the last-minute booking must be done at least 3 to 4 days before. If you have any confusion or queries, then email us at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com or WhatsApp, Viber us at +977 9851016814. 

Tips for Successful Annapurna Circuit with ABC Trek (Wi Fi, Charging, Porter, Tipping, Personal Expenses)

• The Wi Fi or Internet accessibility is available throughout the journey, in every tea house, at the dining area; however, extra money is required, charged by the tea house, especially at the higher elevations, from somewhere between $ 2 to $ 3.
• Electric sockets aren't available in rooms, in many sections, and only charging can be done in the dining area, where you will be charged on an hourly basis.
• The charging area becomes highly packed, which might be frustrating for you to wait in a queue to recharge your gadgets, so consider bringing 1-2 power banks, so in an emergency, you can power up phones and connect back to your love life.
• Buy an NTC SIM card while being in Kathmandu, for direct call, and internet usage as well, where you can get a 4G data pack, by paying NPR 120/- (USD 8) that lasts for a week.
• Consider carrying cash, and do the money exchange in any ATMS, or currency exchange spots in Thamel or the International Airport, even though debit and credit cards might work in some places, most places do not accept the cards. If you have Nepali Rupees, USD (Dollars), Euros, or Indian Currency, then you are good to go. Estimate daily personal expenses, for beverages, tipping, laundry, showers, and carry the cash accordingly.
• For the gears and essentials, you can either buy or rent them in Thamel, Kathmandu, whereas we will provide you with some of the essentials like a duffle bag, a sleeping bag (must be returned), a company T-shirt, and a cap; hence, excluding these, you can buy others. If you want any kind of assistance, then we will guide you.
•  A porter can carry a maximum of 22 kgs of the weight limit, where the weights can be shared between two trekkers. As this package does not include a porter, you must pay an additional cost for the porter service. 
• If you are happy and satisfied with our crew members, then it is highly suggested to tip them, appreciating their hard work to make your trip a successful journey.