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ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK

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14 days, 13 nights
Availability : March - June and September - December
Min Age : 10+
Max People : 12

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, our objective is the Annapurna Base Camp which is a natural amphi-theatre surrounded by some of the most spectacular Himalayan peaks. Macchapucchre and Annapurna South dominate the horizon at the beginning of the trek. But later the imposing Annapurna I (8,091m/26,545ft.) mesmerizes those trekking to Annapurna. Despite the name, very few expeditions use Annapurna Base Camp for their attempt on Annapurna I. Instead, they choose to establish a base camp on the other side of the mountain on the Annapurna Circuit trail.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek traverses through the Annapurna Sanctuary which is the sacred home of the Gurung people. The Gurungs are one of sixty ethnic groups in Nepal. And they are one of the predominant race recruited in the famous Gurkha regiment of the British and Indian army. In the beginning, the trek is through terraced rice fields. Continue up and down the infamous, and seemingly endless, Gurung staircases. Thereafter, gradually ascend to old growth and bamboo forests to the Macchapucchre Base Camp. Finally, ascend gradually to the Annapurna Base Camp . Macchapucchre is a holy mountain for the Gurung people. Hence climbing the mountain is prohibited.

Trekking in the Annapurna region is a great first time trek in Nepal. Come join us and experience the culture and hospitality of the Gurung people on this spectacular journey! Do consider adding the Khopra Ridge Trek to your itinerary if you have more time. Also, combine this trek with the Annapurna Circuit Trek for a complete Annapurna experience. We’d be happy to customize a trek for you.

WHY TREK WITH US?

  • All our Annapurna Base Camp Treks are private treks for a minimum of one participant for a date of your choosing. Small groups allow us to provide a private, premium and personalized experience.

Being only two people in the group was a massive advantage we had — it was easier to get helicopters with a smaller group, easier to change where we’d stay on a given day, easier to ask to push further when we felt good, etc. In fact, because of this flexibility, we beat many big groups to EBC, who took many hours longer than us because they had to wait for stragglers, and they ended up missing the views because the clouds had already come in. Basically this helped us get in/out of Lukla more easily, move faster, and adapt the schedule to the changing weather.

Luke L., Chicago IL, USA

  • We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. However, some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Do read this article “Value offered by Crystal Mountain Treks” to learn more about this. We urge you to compare apples to apples.
  • We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff. Additionally, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals.
  • We are also proud to give back to our community through our giving arm – 3 Summits For Nepal – managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff.

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a lodge trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The lodges on this trek are basic and clean. But they are not quite at par with those on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Also, beyond Chomrong, once you enter the sanctuary, because there are limited lodges, single rooms may not be available. So you may have to share. Furthermore, lodges in the Sanctuary (beyond Chomrong) have rooms with 3-4-5 beds. And you may have to share with trekkers from a separate group. To help you avoid sharing with other we will pay extra for the extra beds. But this may not be possible in the busy trekking months of October and November.

Meals on this trek are quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on Lodge treks. All lodges are powered by the local micro-hydropower except those at Annapurna Base Camp which is powered by solar panels. Battery charging fees ranges from Rupees 200-300 per person. Wifi is available at almost all the lodges for a charge of around Rupees 200 per person.

BEST SEASON

Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for trekking in the Annapurna region are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). It is also possible to do this trek in December. Avoid trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in January and February. Do read our blog on Avalanches on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

TREK RATING

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is rated “STRENUOUS”. It is rated 4 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest altitude reached is at Annapurna Base Camp (13,625 ft/4,160m). Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours with one long day of around 7 hours.  Regardless, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

WHY TREK WITH US?

All our Everest Three Passes Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants for a date of your choosing. Our GOAL is to show you the best of Nepal and get you safely to the Annapurna Base Camp and back. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Do read this article “Is Crystal Mountain Treks expensive?” to learn more about this. We urge you to compare apples to apples.

If you are a group of friends and/or family that want to trek together, for every 10 paying participants, we will give one participant a free trek.

Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff. We are also proud to give back to our community through our giving arm – 3 Summits For Nepal – managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Do contact us (info@crystalmountaintreks.com) if you have more questions. We are happy to help.

Trip at a glance

Brief Itinerary - Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Day Description Overnight Altitude
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu Kathmandu 4,200ft/1,340m
Day 2 Exploring Kathmandu Kathmandu 4,200ft/1,340m
Day 3 Kathmandu to Pokhara to Chhomrong Chhomrong 6,900ft/2,090m
Day 4 Chhomrong to Bamboo Bamboo 7,600ft/2,310m
Day 5 Bamboo to Himalaya Himalaya 9,375ft/2,840m
Day 6 Himalaya to Machapuchare Base Camp MBC 12,136ft/3,700m
Day 7 MBC to South Annapurna Base Camp ABC 13,625ft/4,130m
Day 8 Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo Bamboo 7,580ft/2,310m
Day 9 Bamboo to Chomrong Chhomrong 6,900ft/2,090m
Day 10 Chomrong to Tadapani Tadapani 2,630m/8,700ft
Day 11 Tadapani to Ghorepani Ghorepani 2,875m/9,400ft
Day 12 Hike to Pun Hill. Descend to Ulleri. Drive to Pokhara Pokhara 2,700ft/827m
Day 13 Pokhara to Kathmandu Kathmandu 4,200ft/1,340m
Day 14 Final Departure    
Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Detailed Itinerary - Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Day 01Kathmandu

You will be greeted on arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport by a representative of Crystal Mountain Treks holding a placard at the arrival gate. You will then be escorted to your hotel in Kathmandu. Once in the hotel you can refresh and take a rest as the day will be free. In the evening you will be entertained with a welcome dinner (included). During dinner, you will be briefed on the day to day trip and events.

Overnight Hotel Tibet or similar

Meals: D

Day 02Kathmandu

After breakfast, drive to Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, with its two-tiered golden roof and silver door. Shiva, meaning “The Auspicious One”, also known as Mahadeva (“Great God”), is a popular Hindu deity and is considered to be the Supreme God within Shaivism, one of the three most influential denominations in Hinduism. Here, you’ll probably witness a Hindu cremation along the banks of the Bagmati River and many ascetics and Sadhus.

Then on to Bhaktapur, which is located about 20 km east of Kathmandu in the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur is known as the ‘City of Devotees’, the ‘City of Culture’, the ‘Living Heritage’, and ‘Nepal’s Cultural Gem’. It is one of the 3 royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley. The others are Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, and Patan. Bhaktapur is filled with monuments, most terra-cotta with carved wood columns, palaces and temples with elaborate carvings, gilded roofs and open courtyards. As a World Heritage site listed by the UNESCO, Bhaktapur has been heavily restored since a 1934 earthquake severely damaged the city.

Overnight at Hotel Tibet or similar.

Meals: B, L

Day 03Kathmandu to Pokhara to Chhomrong

Early morning flight to Pokhara (820m/2,690ft.) is approximately 30 minutes. A chartered 4 x 4 vehicle will transfer you to the starting point of the trek near Jhinu Danda.

Cross a suspension bridge and ascend steeply to Jhinu. Continue steep ascent for about 2 hours to the Gurung village of Chhomrong. This is the highest permanent settlement in the valley, although there are tea-houses beyond this point. Chhomrong is a beautiful village located on the lap of Annapurna. There are great views of Annapurna South and Fishtail (Machhpuchure) facing across the valley.

Overnight Lodge

Meals: B, L, D

KIMRONG KHOLA to CHOMRONG:
Distance – 3 miles/4.8 kilometers
Ascent – 1,062 feet/585 meters
Descent – 625 feet/191 meters

Day 4Chhomrong to Bamboo

Leaving behind the permanent settlements, you follow the Modi Khola valley towards the Annapurna Sanctuary. You will shortly be at the foothills of the slopes of the Himalayas. Cross a suspension bridge and then trek up to Sinuwa Danda (7,742ft. /2.360m). The trail passes through thick and dark rhododendron forest up to Khuldighar (8,333ft/2,540m). You then enter a forest of predominantly bamboos.

Overnight Lodge

Meals: B, L, D

CHOMRONG TO UPPER SINUWA (lunch stop):
Distance – 3.08 miles/5 kilometers
Ascent – 1,483 feet/452 meters
Descent – 1,096 feet/334 meters

UPPER SINUWA to BAMBOO:
Distance – 2.51 miles/4 kilometers
Ascent – 606 feet/185 meters
Descent – 686 feet/210 meters

Day 05Bamboo to Himalaya

Today is a short trek of around 4 hours to aid acclimatization. The trail passes through thick bamboo, rhododendron and oak forest to the village of Dobhan (8,530ft/2600m). Continue to ascend gradually following the trail above the river up the side of the canyon. The trail continues through avalanche chutes and a few landslides to Himalaya.

Overnight Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D

BAMBOO TO HIMALAYA (Lunch and Camp):
Distance – 4.47 miles/7.2 kilometers
Ascent – 1,997 feet/610 meters
Descent – 283 feet/86 meters

Day 06Himalaya to Machhapuchare Base Camp

Today is another short trek day, again, to aid with acclimatization. You will find yourself above tree line with amazing mountain views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I (26,545ft/8,091m), Annapurna III (24,786ft/7,555m), Gangapurna (24,455ft./7,454m), and Machhpuchure. The trail from Himalaya climbs gently through a river bed and rises steeply over the side of the mountain. Cross Hinku cave (10,400ft/3,170m). and Deurali (10,597ft/3,230m). About half an hour past Deurali, you will find yourself in the middle of a river bed surrounded by giant snow covered mountains.

Overnight Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D

HIMALAYA to MACHHAPUCHARE BASE CAMP (Lunch and camp):
Distance – 5.64 miles/9 kilometers
Ascent – 2,931 feet/895 meters
Descent – 227 feet/69 meters

Day 7Machapuchare Base Camp to South Annapurna Base Camp

From Machhapuchare Base Camp, it is approximately 2 hours trek to Annapurna Base Camp – a collection of four hotels on a hillock. The view of the south face of Annapurna is fabulous from ABC. The vegetation fades and you enter alpine country. The trial takes you along a stream and climbs to a few huts along a moraine. Annapurna Base Camp is a natural amphitheater and offers a 360 degree panorama view of the mountains.

Overnight Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D

MACHHAPUCHARE BASE CAMP TO ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP (Lunch and camp):
Distance – 2.14 miles/3.44 kilometers
Ascent – 1,379 feet/420 meters

Day 08Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo

Wake up early to witness the sunrise on the Annapurna ranges. Today is all downhill. After breakfast, you start your descent to Bamboo through MBC, Deurali, Hinku cave, Himalaya and Dobhan. After lunch, you re-enter the bamboo forest.

Overnight Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D

ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP to BAMBOO:
Distance – 12.25 miles/20 kilometers
Ascent – 510 feet/155 meters
Descent – 6,307 feet/1922 meters

Day 9Bamboo to Chomrong

Today you continue down through the forest to Sinuwa and on to lower Chhomrong. Then again you ascend on the never-ending staircases to Upper Chhomrong.

Overnight Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D

BAMBOO to UPPER SINUWA:
Distance – 2.51 miles/4 kilometers
Ascent – 686 feet/210 meters
Descent – 606 feet/185 meters

UPPER SINUWA to CHOMRONG:
Distance – 3.08 miles/5 kilometers
Ascent – 1,096 feet/334 meters
Descent – 1,483 feet/452 meters

Day 10Chomrong to Tadapani

The trail continues steeply through thick mixed forests. Trek through Bhaise Kharka (Buffalo pasture) to Tadapani (far water). Look out for wild Langurs up on the tall trees. Rhododendron trees in this area are not shrubs but grow to become 90 feet or more.

The views of Annapurna South, Macchapuchare and Hiunchuli are spectacular from Tadapani.

Overnight Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D

CHOMRONG to GURJUNG:
Distance – 4.16 miles/6.7 kilometers
Ascent – 799 feet/244 meters
Descent – 1,366 feet/416 meters

GURJUNG to TADAPANI:
Distance – 2.37 miles/3.81 kilometers
Ascent – 2,322 feet/708 meters
Descent – 10 feet/3 meter

Day 11Tadapani to Ghorepani

Ascend through rhododendron forests gently to Banthati and then to Deorali. Continue to Ghorepani (literally translated as horse water) on a ridge with a big cluster of lodges.

Overnight Lodge.

Meals: B, L, D

TADAPANI to DEURALI:
Distance – 4.9 miles/7.9 kilometers
Ascent – 2,126 feet/648 meters
Descent – 779 feet/237 meters

DEURALI to GHOREPANI:
Distance – 2.45 miles/3.95 kilometers
Ascent – 381 feet/116 meters
Descent – 1,160 feet/353 meter

Day 12Ghorepani to Pokhara

Wake up early (4ish) and hike steeply (1 hour) to Pun hill (10,600 ft.) to view the sunrise over the Himalayas. From Pun hill, there are unobstructed views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Tukuche (6,920m), Nilgiri (6,920m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Glacier dome (7,193m).

After breakfast at Ghorepani, descend steeply to Ulleri. Board a 4 x 4 for drive to Nayapul and onwards to Pokhara.

After your long shower, enjoy the rest of the day for shopping, relaxing or exploring on your own.

Overnight: Temple Tree or similar

Meals: B, L

GHOREPANI to PUN HILL (One way):
Distance – 1 miles/1.6 kilometers
Ascent – 981 feet/299 meters
Descent – 0

GHOREPANI to ULLERI:
Distance – 4.54 miles/7.3 kilometers
Ascent – 302 feet/92 meters
Descent – 2,133 feet/650 meter

Day 13Pokhara to Kathmandu

You take the mid-afternoon flight back to Kathmandu. After you arrive in Kathmandu, you take some time off to get fresh and get ready for sightseeing in the valley. In the evening you will be entertained to a farewell dinner in Kathmandu. You will stay the night at Hotel Tibet or similar. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 14Final Departure

The final day, you will be escorted to the airport for your flight home. If your flight is later in the evening then you can take a walk around town. (Breakfast)

Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Cost Information - Annapurna Base Camp Trek

PER PERSON PRICES (valid until December 31, 2027)

Group size PLATINUM PACKAGE Group size SILVER PACKAGE
1 participant $3,000 (includes single supplement) 1 participant 2,300 (includes single supplement)
2 – 4 participants $2,600 per person 2 – 4 participants $1,750 per person
5 or more $2,300 per person 5 or more $1,550 per person
Single Supplement $300 Single Supplement $200

 

  • US$250 PER PERSON DISCOUNT ON TREKS IN MARCH, MAY, LATTER HALF OF NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER on the PLATINUM PACKAGE.
  • US$100 PER PERSON DISCOUNT ON TREKS IN MARCH, MAY, LATTER HALF OF NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER on the SILVER PACKAGE.

These packages are ALL INCLUSIVE – almost everything is included in the trip price. Budget an additional US$2,500-US$3,000 extra for your international airfare, tips, bottled beverages, Nepal visa, a couple meals in Kathmandu etc. See the “price excludes” section to learn about the extras. Please inquire for quote in AUS$/GB£ or Euros.

Payment policy:

  • A 20% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking.
  • Balance is payable a week prior to departure or on arrival in Kathmandu.

Cancellation policy:

  • Deposit is non-refundable. But if you cancel a month prior to trek start date, your deposit will be applied to any trek you undertake with us anytime in the future.
  • No refunds for unused services once trek begins.

Price Includes

SERVICES PLATINUM PACKAGE SILVER PACKAGE
All airport transfers ✔️ ✔️
One full day sightseeing in Kathmandu and entrance fees to monuments ✔️ ✔️
Three nights twin sharing hotel accommodation in Kathmandu 3 or 4 star (Ambassador or similar) 2 star (Tibet Guest House or similar)
One night twin sharing hotel accommodation in Pokhara 4 star (Temple Tree) 2 star (Big Pillow inn or similar)
Airfare: Kathmandu to Pokhara ✔️ ✔️
Airfare: Pokhara to Kathmandu ✔️ Tourist bus to Kathmandu
Lodge accommodations Ensuite rooms where available Private rooms with common toilet
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (Three meals a day on the trek) Choose from Menu Fixed meals
Boiled water for drinking twice a day ✔️ X
Unlimited hot Beverages (Coffee, tea, hot lemon, hot chocolate) ✔️ Limited to twice per day
Use of down jacket, duffel bags, micro-spikes, 0 F rated sleeping bag ✔️ ✔️
Guide and staff wages, equipment and meals ✔️ ✔️
Guide and staff insurance ✔️ ✔️
Use of Steripen for water sterilization ✔️ ✔️
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS card ✔️ ✔️
Chartered Transfer: Pokhara to Jhinu and Banthati to Pokhara ✔️ ✔️

 

 

  •  

Price Excludes

  • Your international airfare (US$1,500-$2,000)
  • Nepal Visa (US$50)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary (2 dinners in Kathmandu: US$50)
  • Bottled beverages and packaged snacks (US$ 100)
  • Battery charging and showers (US$50)
  • Tips and gratuities (US$ 200 per person approximately)
  • Personal equipment (a suggested list will be mailed to you)
  • Travel insurance (This is required – US$ 300 – 500)
  • Other expenses of a personal nature
Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Map (double click on the map to zoom in)

Photos

Options

If you don’t have 15 days to spare, we recommend the fast paced Annapurna Base Camp trek. You could deduct up to 5 days from the trip. Contact us for a program that might suit you better.

You can combine this trek to add the Khopra Ridge.

And, YES, we would be happy to custom-design any of our program for you for a minimum of two participants.

Crystal Mountain Trek Icon
Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

When is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

It is possible to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp through out the year besides June, July and August which are the peak monsoon months. However, there are two preferred seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Spring (March through May) and Fall (October through December). Day time temperatures range in the 50’s and 60’s Fahrenheit (10 to 15 Centigrade) while night-time temperatures are in the 30’s and 40’s Fahrenheit (0 to 5 Centigrade). Expect night time temperatures of below Freezing near the Annapurna Base Camp. Expect some late-afternoon showers in the Spring which is the also season when rhododendrons and magnolias are in bloom. October is historically regarded as the best month to trek with clear skies and better views of the mountains.

We highly encourage you to trek in the Winter months of December, January and February when days can be quite sunny and warm (40F – 5 Centigrade) although you should expect temperatures below freezing on most nights above (9,000 ft.). But the trails and lodges aren’t as crowded. You should expect snow during these months and Yak trax (https://yaktrax.implus.com/) are highly recommended. We offer a $150 per person discount for treks in the Winter.

How much does it cost to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

You can: A) organize your own trek B) choose a Nepali company or C) choose a western guided trek. Option A is the cheapest. If you’re doing the Annapurna Base Camp trek on your own look to pay around $30 per person per day (without alcoholic beverages) for meals and accommodations. Add cost of guide and/or porter plus airfare and permits. Option B is mid-range and can cost between $1,000 – $2,000 with varying inclusions and exclusions. Make sure you understand what is included and what is not included in the package. The best way to choose a Nepali company is to ask for references. Option C would cost above $2,500.

How fit do I need to be to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Anyone who is reasonably fit and can hike 8-10 miles a day can sign up Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This is a roller-coaster trek with a lot of ascents and descents (some quite steep). So the better shape you are in, the more you will enjoy the trek. Children as young as six and adults over seventy have walked to Annapurna Base Camp. It is advised that anyone with a pre-existing condition consult their doctor before signing up for a trek.
We rate the Everest Base Camp Trek a 4 on a scale of 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging).

What kind of food should I expect on the trek?

Meals on the Annapurna Base Camp trek start out being quite varied especially at the beginning of the trek. But it becomes sparser as you ascend to the Annapurna Base Camp. In general, expect porridge (Oatmeal), toast, eggs (any style), muesli, hash browns, sausages etc for breakfast. And sandwich, pizzas, momos, noodles (dry and with soup), rolls, fried rice, Indian bread with vegetables etc for lunch and dinner. And expect Nepali dal-bhat (rice-lentils with vegetables and/or meat) at all the lodges.

Ours is an OPEN menu. Meaning we allow our clients to order anything from the lodge menu besides bottled beverages, specialty coffee and packaged snacks. We also don’t limit the number of items per meal as long as you aren’t wasteful. When choosing your trekking company, ask if meals are fixed or if you are only allowed to order one item from the menu. If this isn’t the case, costs can add up over 15/16 days.

Check out our article on food options for vegetarians.

Can I drink the tap water? How can I get water that is safe to drink?

Nepali tap water is NOT safe to drink. Even if you see the locals drinking water straight from the tap, never drink water before boiling or sterilizing. Bring water purifying tablets or other water purifiers. At higher elevations during the coldest times of year the water will freeze, so you’ll need to buy boiled water from teahouses. If you plan to use a STERIPEN, bring wide mouth water bottles. You would need at least 2 one-liter water bottles for the trek. Even if you plan to bring a hydration pack, bring 1 one-liter water to sterilize the water before pouring into your hydration pack.

Crystal Mountain Treks will provide you with a Steripen to use on the trek for no charge.

Do read our blog on safe drinking water options: Hydration on treks in Nepal

Is there mobile signal on the trek? Can I get wi-fi?

Most of the places on the Annapurna Base Camp trek route now has cell coverage. In some locations, lodges will offer wi-fi for between $1 to $10 per hour. You can also buy a Sim card with 5GB or 10GB data for under $25: do this in Kathmandu.

How should I prepare for this trek?

The more physically fit you are, the more you will enjoy the trip. There are three aspects to training for any trek.

1) Cardiovascular Training will make your body more efficient in using oxygen. Running, walking, swimming or biking, or any combination of these are great for cardiovascular conditioning.

2) Strength Training by either using free weights or machines at the gym will build hiking strength. Walking stairs, especially with a pack will simulate the hiking environment. We also recommend practicing squats. Trekkers will encounter low hanging obstacles to duck under, and many toilets are at ground level, which requires a low squat.

3) Endurance Training is where you build endurance in the months leading up to your trek, slowly increase your length of training sessions. By the time you are 2 weeks from the scheduled trek date you should be able to ascend 3,000 ft. in a 3-4 hour period.

In the end, the more your training simulates a trek, the better off you will be. So hiking 4-5 hours outdoors, uphill and downhill, about once or twice a week in addition to other cardio vascular training at the gym or at home will greatly benefit and prepare you for the trek.

Check out our article on training for treks.

Are there ATM's on the Annapurna trek?

No, ATM’s are not available.

What are the toilets like? Will I have a chance to shower?

Most tea houses have a common toilet. Some tea houses, especially those at the beginning of the trek, have en suite rooms. While squat toilets are more prevalent, newer lodges have Western style toilets.

It is possible to shower in a few of the lodges. And hot shower usually means a bucket of boiled water. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $2-$5 for this service.

What gear do I need for this trek? Can I rent some of the gear in Kathmandu?

Layering is key. And it’s always recommended to trek with good branded gear. A good pair of hiking boots that’s been broken in is very important. Good top and bottom base layers, a mid layer (fleece or capilene), and an outer layer (Gore-tex or other material). If you tend to get cold quickly, bring a down parka especially for the evening at the lodge. On most days, you’d be hiking in a convertible hiking pant that can be converted into shorts and one or two top layers.

if you’re trekking with Crystal Mountain Treks, we provide a sleeping bag (rated to 0 degree F or -17 degree C), duffel bags, down jacket and Steripen for water purification to our clients for no charge.

It is possible to buy cheap and relatively functional gear in Kathmandu – convertible pants, down jackets, fleece, Gore-tex jackets. But remember, you get what you pay for. Wool gloves, hats, socks are available too.

There are quite a few branded stores too. North Face, Moutain Hardwear, Marmot and Sherpa. If you’re coming from Australia or Europe, items in these shops are probably cheaper than back home. But if you’re coming from the US, it’s better to buy branded gear at home.

What are the vaccinations required for Nepal?

No vaccinations are REQUIRED. There are some that are recommended. Check out websites of the following for immunization that are recommended:

1) CIWEC hospital in Nepal

2) CDC (Center for Disease Control)

11 Reviews
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Ian J

Couple Traveller

We had an amazing g trip with crystal mountain, the advance arrangements were done very thoroughly and communication was excellent. When we arrived we were taken care of in an exceptional way both in Kathmandu and on the trek itself. Our guild Pema is really a great man and so helpful with information and history related to the surrounding area and along the path. Pema went out of his way to support our trip with unique cultural information and experiences.Our porter Prem worked hard and was such a pleasure to work with. Jwalant supplied additional support to us beyond our trekking dates with logistical support in Kathmandu which was extremely helpful .We look forward to another trek in Nepal with Crystal Mountain!

November 11, 2024

Caroline L

Couple Traveller

We returned a week ago from our trip and trek in Nepal. It was the first time for my husband and myself that we visited Nepal. We feel so lucky that we were referred to go with Crystal Mountain Trek. They are an excellent touring company and let us adjust the original itinerary to fit our needs. We wanted to acclimate longer before starting the trek. Jwalant quickly made the changes.
All the details were well organized and after the devastating monsoon in early October, the guide and his assistant walked the whole trek to review the conditions of the trail and guesthouses to make sure that the trek was doable and everything was open.

We thoroughly enjoyed the company of our guide Rinji and the assistant guide Phurba. They made us feel so welcome in their country, they have a great humor and entertained us with their musical talents. Our group of 8 felt like a fun team and the 6 guests definitely had a tough time parting from them. We hope it is only an “Au Revoir”, not an “adieu”.

Should I be able to visit Nepal again, I will go with Crystal Mountain Trek.

Jwalant, Rinji, Phurba, Harsha,
Thank you for making this trip a beautiful lasting memory.

October 31, 2024

Louis K

Family Traveller

The company fulfilled every expectation we had. We completed the Annapurna Base Camp trek and trekked to Pangboche and part way to the Amadablam base camp. The guides and porters were excellent and knowledgeable. We learned a great deal about the country, people, traditions and mountains. The itinerary was organized to assure we did not suffer from high altitude illness with adequate acclimatization. The lodges were always comfortable with some more basic than others. We stayed at one lodge that seemed a bit out of the way only to awake in the morning to views of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse that were spectacular. It was evident the company knows the routes well, selects lodges and restaurants of people with whom they have long standing relationships. Our guide went out of his way to provide me with an opportunity to visit two hospitals which as a health care professional was an exciting opportunity, I highly recommend Crystal Mountain Treks and am already considering returning next year.

June 25, 2023

Ruchika A

Group Traveller

I am so excited to share my invaluable experience with Crystal Mountain Treks. We had a great time on our 10 day Annapurna base camp trek. Their planning was seamless and the staff service was beyond excellence. They also took care of us before and after the trek. I have come back with fond lifetime memories. Looking forward to some more trek experiences with Crystal Mountain Treks.

June 7, 2023

Meenu A

Group Traveller

CMT made my first trekking experience to ABC immemorable with their highly professional team of guides and porters and of course Jwalant organised it so thoroughly that there is no reason to complain
Highly Recommended this experience has ignited my passion for trekking
We went from 8th to 18 th May 2023 in a group of 13 people with 4 guides who were par excellence in their profession Lakpa the leader was most humble and proficient with a great sense of responsibility Pemba and Nigma ever smiling full of energy and ready to help made our trek so easy and pleasant Nima the quiet one helping behind the scenes
Next year it is going to be EBC and most certainly with Crystal Mountain Treks and then the next and the next and so on
Thank you all and thank you Jwalant

May 16, 2023
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