Annapurna Base Camp Vs Annapurna Circuit Trek: Which Trek is right for you?

Why are Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek compared By Hikers?

Many of us have heard about the Annapurna Region, right? Trekking remains a popular option for travel in the Annapurna Region, and trekkers tend to compare the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek because they are well-recognized adventures yet offer very different kinds of exposure. The ABC trek is shorter and easier-one normally takes about 7 to 12 days. It stays at lower altitudes of about 4,100 meters which carry less risk of altitude sickness. In case somebody wants to spend a short time in the mountains and is of moderate fitness, this is the perfect route.

On the contrary, theAnnapurna Circuit Trek is longer and harder. It lasts something like 14 to 21 days and ascends way higher, up to 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. This trek is said to be more challenging because of the altitude severity and long distance. Hence, it grants you more diversity in landscapes and a deeper cultural experience on the way to the many varying villages and ethnic communities.

Comparing Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek: Based on Distance, Difficulty, and Duration

Distance Covered

You walk a total of around 110 kilometers on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Usually, you need to walk 10 to 12 kilometers per day and take 4 to 6 hours to complete the hike. You go along the path toward the base of the tenth-highest mountain, Annapurna. Whereas, the most fascinating part is! the short rapid ABC Trek can be finished just within 5 days, which is a win win situation for those who are limited in time.

 In contrast, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is longer, taking you on a route that is from 160 to 230 kilometers (100 to 140 miles) long. You will usually hike for 5 to 7 hours every day, while the trail takes you around the whole Annapurna mountain range. Along the route, you’ll see green trees, walk over rocky ground, and hike over high mountain passes. The minimum time that anyone can achieve this trek is 10 days, as many adventure seekers who love a rapid way to reach the enchanting Thorung La Pass, opt for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Difficulty Level

So, how difficult are these treks? Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty level is moderate as trekkers who are moderately fit and take a bit of a challenge but aren’t up for something extremely demanding will find this trek ideal. It’s somewhere between easy and hard but needs you to be ready for some challenges. 

You will reach your highest point of 4,130 meters (about 13,550 feet) at the Annapurna Base Camp. A few days have steep sections, while others are more gentle and still need you to prepare for longer walks, sometimes going uphill. However, the paths are well managed with plenty of teahouses for breaks, and you can take a steady pace,

Annapurna Circuit Trek is more difficult than the ABC Trek due to the added challenges of high altitude, long duration, and distance to cover. It’s mostly difficult since crossing Thorong La Pass at such an altitude takes a lot of preparation. The Thorong La Pass leads you up to 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). That's super high! You’re going up, facing thin air, bad weather, and rough terrain that can be challenging if you are a beginner. To know more in depth, you can check our blog entitled: Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty which explains challenges and also suggests tips to overcome as well.

Duration

You can finish the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in less time. Usually, you will need 7 to 12 days to complete it, starting from Pokhara. Because it's shorter, it’s great if you wish to see the wonderful Annapurna region but are short on time, while making it perfect for beginners.

You need more time to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trekking route. Usually, it takes 12 to 18 days, but a few older paths can stretch the trip to 23 days. Since it is longer, it suits people who like spending extra days in the mountains.

Getting In and Out of Trailhead: Transportation Facilities

There are lots of ways to get to and from the trailheads, so access is pretty easy at Annapurna Base Camp and Circuit Trek.

Almost all ABC Trekking adventures start in Kathmandu and then proceed to Pokhara, which is considered the main gateway to the Annapurna Region. Going by bus lets you see the countryside for 6 to 8 hours, but it's only a quick 25-30 minute flight by air. If you are in Pokhara, local buses, taxis, or microbuses are available if you want to get to Nayapul or trailheads such as Tikhedhunga or Jhinu Danda, or you can book a private jeep as well. Most people who trek down from Annapurna Base Camp get to Nayapul and afterward take a bus or car to Pokhara.

Most tourists start trekking to the Annapurna Circuit from Besisahar. There is a day bus every day from Kathmandu which is usually full and very cheap, alternatively, you can opt for a more expensive private car or jeep, taking 5-7 hours. When most people finish their trek, at either Muktinath or Jomsom, they get on a local bus or jeep to return to Pokhara.

Top 10 Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

• Reach 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass with spectacular mountain views all around.
• You go from green forests of rhododendron to dry Mustang landscapes 
•  Meet people from ethnic communities such as Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetans in villages such as Manang, Jomsom, and Pisang
• Find yourself close to amazing mountains like Annapurna II, III, and IV, Gangapurna, and Chulu Peak
• Observe old houses and many Buddhist monasteries in Manang
• soak your sore muscles and feel better at the hot springs in Tatopani afrer a long journey of trekking
• Visit the old monasteries and special spiritual sites to see Buddhism and the area’s traditions side by side.
• Witness rare animals such as blue sheep, mountain goats, or a very shy snow leopard in the mountains
• Visit Muktinath Temple, famous for its 108 water taps and two holy Kundas.
• Walking by the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki River Valleys, the world’s deepest gorge.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek  Highlights

• Stand close to the tenth-tallest mountain while seeing other amazing mountains all around you at Annapurna Base Camp
• Clear view of Machhapuchhre Base Camp, also known as Fishtail Mountain, almost the whole time while trekking
• Walking through Modi Khola Valley, moving from lush forests into rocky trails as you hear mountain streams beside you
• Visit Ghandruk and Chhomrong, traditional Gurung villages offering warm welcomes and stories that families have kept for many years
• Enjoy views of mountains including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli and plenty of others
• Move up from the warm subtropical forests to the cold alpine areas - it feels like you’re traveling through both time and weather
• Relax in the Jhinu hot springs and experience a wonderfully warm and restorative massage from nature
• Stay in cozy lodges offering traditional Nepali food and meet fellow trekkers
• Get to know the Gurung and Magar people by seeing their customs, tasting their special foods, and learning about life in the mountains
• Discover the many rhododendron forests and watch mountain plants and animals in their habitats

How to Choose Between Annapurna Base Camp Trekking and Annapurna Circuit Trekking?

Confused about which one to go for? The following information will help you decide, based on your time, money, and fitness, for the best trek in Annapurna.

Based on Time

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek usually takes only 7 to 12 days and is more flexible than some other treks. If you cannot take many days off work, this trek is a good way to see mountain views and learn about local ways. On the other hand, the Circuit Trek lasts between 12 and 18 days for most people and can go up to 23 days on older routes. It takes longer because the trail covers more ground and you have to go over the high Thorong La Pass. The Circuit trek gives you more days to explore if you like a long adventure, but for something quicker, ABC is best.

Based on Cost

Usually, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is cheaper than the Circuit Trek. Because it’s shorter, the money you spend on staying, eating, and getting permits goes down. You pay less for transportation since the ABC Trek starts and finishes near Pokhara, a city with many transport options. Because the Circuit Trek lasts longer and travelers need special permits for Mustang, it usually costs more. If your budget is smaller, ABC costs less, but the Circuit Trek needs a bigger budget.

Based on Difficulty And Fitness Level

Although both treks are labeled moderate, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is harder. Getting up Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters elevation increases the difficulty of the route and means you need better fitness while he longer trek and extra high-altitude days raise your risk of altitude sickness. Because the ABC trek’s maximum height is 4,130 meters, it’s easier and good for those with medium fitness or who are new to hiking. ABC is better if you’re just starting out with trekking or don’t want a tough challenge.  For those just starting with trekking or who want an easier challenge, ABC is better. People who have previous trekking experience and want something tougher should pick the Trek to Annapurna Circuit. 

Altitude and Its Challenges: Thorong La Pass Vs Annapurna Base Camp

Thorong La Pass of the Annapurna circuit is much higher than that of Annapurna Base Camp. Thorong La stands at 5,416 meters-high altitude enough to place it among the very highest trekking passes of the world. The climb is steep, hard as the rocks in some places, at times icy as well. The weather may suddenly change with strong winds, snow, or freezing temperatures. Very thin air fills it and it is hard to breathe! So you can be affected by altitude sickness with headaches, dizziness, or nausea so you have to be well-prepared and fit to cross the pass without any problems.

Annapurna Base Camp is lower at 4,130 meters. Although it’s still very high, it comes at about 1,300 meters less than Thorong La Pass! The trek is not steep, meaning your body has time to adjust itself. Nevertheless, you can develop mild altitude sickness, including headaches or problems sleeping, particularly over 3,000 meters. The weather is competitive as well and it may be cold and changeable with a lower risk compared to Thorong La. The ABC trek is an easier option for most people but you’ve got to be careful and slow on the way up. 

Which one offers the best view: Annapurna Circuit Vs Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is like having a mountain buffet on a plate!! Since you walk around the whole Annapurna range in an enormous circle, you view mountains from all different perspectives. The absolute highlight is Thorong La Pass, from where you have a deep view into the mysterious Mustang region and from where you can look back at the peaks you have been circling. The western segment of the circuit will show you brown, Tibet-like landscapes that are truly distinct. You shall be able to behold great peaks of Annapurna II, III, and IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and distant giants such as Dhaulagiri and Manaslu!  There are new mountain personalities to come into view every day.

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek provides a different kind of magic. Instead of gazing at the mountains from afar, you enter into their hearts! The Sanctuary itself is a high mountain basin encircled by a complete ring of peaks. Visualise yourself at a mega stadium with some of the world’s highest mountains as its backdrops, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. When you get to the Base camp, you will be literally at the center of a mountain crown. Sunrise here colors the snow-covered peaks golden pink!

Accommodation and Amenities: Which is better?

Thinking of where you shall be spending the night? The teahouses on the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Route are quite developed and better in terms of comfort. Because this trek is shorter and more popular, the last few years have seen the lodges here undergo tremendous improvements.. Most of them now provide hot showers (at times for a small fee), reasonable electricity for charging phones, and even Wi-Fi in other places! The rooms are simple yet cozy and often only have two beds with heavy blankets.  The higher up you are, particularly past Chhomrong, the facilities become basic, though still comfortable.

Accommodation along the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail is more varied. Good news? In popular areas such as Manang and Jomsom, Teahouses are very nice, with good facilities and some have attached bathrooms! However, in remote areas, particularly around Thorong La Pass and rural villages that receive fewer tourists, the teahouses are very basic. Imagine shared toilets, no hot water, and not many things to choose from the menu. The western part of the circuit (Jomsom to Pokhara) has better amenities compared to the eastern portion. One unique thing about the circuit is that you get different cultural influences in the teahouses and more of the Tibetan style up north, and more Gurung and Thakali influence elsewhere.

For starters or people seeking more comfort, Base Camp Trek usually will provide better overall accommodation.

Which one is beginner-friendly?

Thinking, which trek could be a better one for your first experience of the Himalayas? How about breaking it down in simple terms?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is known to be friendlier for beginners and here is why: For one, it is shorter as the majority of hikers finish the trail in 7-12 days, and that’s much less daunting to most than the 14-21 days of the Annapurna Circuit route. The routes on the Base Camp route are usually well-kept and visible with many teahouses. Although there are difficult uphill sections, the paths are non-technical and fairly easy. With a maximum altitude of 4,130 meters, it is high enough to provide you with a genuine mountain feel, but less prone to serious altitude issues with most people. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek also has the beginner-friendly element that you are not too far away from help if needed. The trail is more populated with other hikers and guides, and evacuation would also be faster in case someone gets sick or hurt. 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is more difficult for novices. The length is long enough to test the physical strength and mental toughness. Proper acclimatization is necessary before crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m and the risks here are also higher for altitude sickness. Weather conditions are likely to be more severe and especially around the pass. The Circuit also calls for more planning and preparation in advance. Several of the areas are remote and emergency services may take longer to reach them. Even beginners stand a chance on the Circuit with proper preparations, a good guide and if they take things slowly.

Permits and Guides

Before your big adventure in the Annapurna Region, you require some special documents known as the permits! Think about them as a type of entrance ticket to a special nature park. You need two major permits for both the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

To begin with, you must have a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) costing USD 20. This card is used in monitoring all hikers in the mountains. If anything goes wrong, rescuers can search for you where you are!

Second, you are required to have an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area permit) costing USD 30. This money helps to ensure the conservation of the pretty mountains, plants and animals. It also supports local villages where they have schools and clean water. 

Do you need a guide? The good news is that both treks could be had with or without guides. Many people trek on their own, using the well-marked routes and teahouses for overnight accommodation. Yet, having a guide is of great advantage. Guides know where to go for the secret spots, tell stories about local culture, and come to your aid when you get sick, and deal with all the dull stuff like logistics. They cost about $25-30 per day. For any first-time mountain hikers, a guide increases the safety and fun of your adventure. And on top of that, hiring guides help local jobs, which is awesome!

When to Trek Annapurna Base Camp VS Annapurna Circuit?

Timing is quite important for mountain adventures! The best seasons for both treks are two major seasons, the spring (March to May), and the autumn (September to November). These times provide you with awesome views of mountains and pleasant temperatures for walking.

Spring brings beautiful flowers! The Annapurna Base Camp Hike is particularly magical in April with red and pink rhododendron flowers in red, white and pink blooms. It is like taking a walk in a natural garden with mountain views. Spring temperatures are heating up still of not too hot so you can remain comfortable.

Autumn has the clearest sky views of the mountain, so these two treks are most popular during this time, especially in October. The air is crisp and clean, just great for those postcard pictures! Summer monsoon rains are followed by stable weather and no chance of rain and snow thus the trails are dry and safe to navigate.

Thorong La Pass can be challenging when there is too much snow, therefore, winter trekking (December-February) is quite risky. The pass could also be closed after the heavy snowfall. Both treks face the problem of freezing cold temperatures and icy, snow-covered trails that become hard to navigate in winter.

The summer (June-August) is when monsoon rains are frequent, making trails muddy and blocking mountain views behind clouds. However, the northern part of the Annapurna Circuit is under a rain shadow and receives less rain so some bold hikers hike the Circuit in monsoon when the trails are quiet and the land is green. The Base Camp Trek should definitely be avoided during the monsoon as the leeches come out and the trails are slippery and dangerous. All in all, October-November is the most consistent weather for both treks, with spring being a beautiful second choice!

Mountains and Landscape

The Annapurna Region is a magical natural park with various beautiful parts! The Annapurna Base Camp Trek means you are taken into the Annapurna Sanctuary.  As you trek up from lush forests, you see the trees get smaller till you are in an area that has only rocks and snow. The landscape is completely different every day as you trek. The star mountains you will view include the Annapurna I (the 10th highest mountain in the world!), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (the one which looks like a fish tail!), and Hiunchuli. These giants surround you in a circle when you get to the base camp and you feel small, but mesmerized!

Annapurna Circuit Trek exposes you to a much greater diversity of landscapes. Since it passes through the entire mountain range, you have a taste of four different worlds! The trek begins through green, humid forests where there are bamboo and banana trees. Then it ascends through the pine forests to mountain deserts that resemble Tibet. The northern part is different from the other side; it is dry, with colored rock formations, caves and ancient villages.

Circuit enables you to look admire of a greater variety of mountains, remote glimpses of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, and many others. You’ll also trek through the world’s deepest gorge (Kali Gandaki) and view marvelous river valleys created by ancient glaciers before taking you to Poon Hill for watch 19 notable peaks in golden sunrise.

Both treks display the magnificent beauty of the mountains, but the Circuit is more diverse, whereas the Base Camp helps you feel as if you are among the giants!

Packing and Preparation Tips for Annapurna Circuit Vs Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

• Both treks require good layering but Trek to  Annapurna Circuit needs more extreme temperatures gear because there will be hot days in the low lands (25°C), freezing nights at high altitude (-10°C) and all of it, while Base Camp Trek has a narrower range and thermal underwear, fleece for those low and higher warm altitudes.
• Prepare your feet with proper boots and socks, and break in hiking boots a month ahead of either trek, but those headed for the Annapurna Round Trekking should go with more durable, ankle-supporting boots for the longer distance and varied terrain, while ABC trekkers may sometimes get by with sturdy hiking shoes.
• The Base Camp Trek has ATMs in Pokhara and some bigger villages (such as Chhomrong), but once you’re on the Circuit Trek, particularly in remote areas like between Manang and Muktinath, you might not see an ATM for a week and so the Circuit trekkers need to carry extra cash.
• You need a sleeping bag rated below -10°C (14°F) for the trip. The tea houses supply blankets yet these items do not provide adequate protection from the cold.
• For Trekking Annapurna Base camp, there will be stair climbing and uphill walking preparation for 4-6 weeks before your trek because this trek has many stone steps, but lengthier and endurance training such as hikes for longer distance, carrying your bags helps if you are going for Circuit Trek where you will walk for long continuous days.
• Both treks are high enough to cause altitude sickness as the  Annapurna Circuit Trekking goes to the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)  and  Annapurna Base Camp is at 4,130m. You should consult their doctor regarding medications for altitudes such as Diamox, and you should learn about altitude sickness symptoms.
• Carry 2-3 liter capacity water bottle and keep water purification tablets or purchase a filter for your water before your journey. 
• Using trekking poles acts as a support system that reduces knee strain while descending downhill. The poles help maintain stability when navigating through rocky terrain and the glacier section.
• Both treks need sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, although particularly in the high desert areas and Thorong La Pass, the sun is really intense and can reflect off snow so bring a stronger sunscreen (SPF 50+) and better sunglasses with side protection.
• In the case of the Base Camp Trek, power is much more reliable with many teahouses providing charging; however, on the Annapurna Circuit Trek it may be unavailable for days, particularly in remote areas. It will be advisable to carry additional power banks for cameras and phones.
• In your first aid kit, you should pack extra blister treatment, stronger pain relief, altitude sickness medication and broad-spectrum antibiotics (prescribed by your doctor). Carry it in you daypack!

Can I combine both the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek in one trip?

Want to combine these epic treks for a complete Annapurna exploration? It is possible to combine both the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek into one trek lasting between 18 to 26 days which can be arranged with many trekking companies.

 It will enable you to view the best of two worlds simultaneously, such as the landscapes of variety, rich culture and high passes of the Annapurna circuit but also the close-ups of massive peaks and natural glory of the Annapurna Sanctuary on the ABC Trek.

This combined mostly starts with the Annapurna Circuit that includes crossing the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters above sea level and exploring the traditional villages of Manang and Mustang. Following the completion of the circuit section, the trek continues to Annapurna Base Camp which is the route where you can see the amazing view of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre and the other giant peaks. During the journey, you can even visit natural hot springs in Tatopani and have a chance to observe some amazing viewpoints like Poon Hill.

But remember, this combined trip is both physically challenging and involves good fitness and acclimatization due to the high altitudes and duration involved. 

Recommended Combined Trip for Annapurna Circuit Trek and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Now, let us look at some stunning combination options for the Annapurna Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a combination of the highest lakes in the world at 4919 meters. The route involves going over two high passes of Thorong La Pass and Kang La Pass. Trekkers get a chance to tour remote villages, Tibetan Buddhist culture, deep gorges, and breathtaking mountain views.

Want a different option? Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nar Phu Valley crosses high passes such as the Kang La and Mesokanto La, and this is wilderness trekking. Nar Phu is a limited, less-frequented region which is famous for its untouched Himalayan landscapes and Tibetan culture. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill is a mixture of the ABC route, including a Poon Hill trip, a famous viewpoint that provides spectacular sunset views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri hills. It is a shorter trek that allows the you to see the close-up views of the mountains of the sanctuary as well as the classic Poon Hill wide-ranging views, through rhododendron forests, and colorful Gurung settlements.

Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek combines the famous Annapurna Base Camp route with Mardi Himal, another less-explored trail having breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. It entails a hike through the forests, alpine meadows and remote villages.

Annapurna Base Camp Khopra Trek is a combination of the route to Annapurna Base Camp and the Khopra Ridge Trek, which will enable you to see a broad range of mountains from Khopra Danda. It will take you to traditional villages, through lush forests, and rarely visited trails.

Conclusion: Which One To Choose?

The decisions between Annapurna Base Camp trekking, Annapurna Circuit trekking, and combinations are matters of time, your fitness and how adventurous you want to be. If you are time constrained and you want to do something moderately hard with some very close views of the mountains and good stay then the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or its combinations such as Poon Hill or Mardi Himal will be your choices. Greater and more strenuous hikes through diverse landscapes with high mountain passes and cultural experiences will be the memories of a lifetime granted by the Annapurna Circuit and its extensions like Tilicho Lake and Nar Phu Valley.

Combining both treks is for experienced trekkers wanting to explore a little more of the Annapurnas in one go. Do consider your fitness level, how well you have reacted to altitude, and how many days you have before making a choice. Whichever trek you may choose, the Annapurna Region assures you of breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and memories for a lifetime.