10 Tips For Doing ABC Trek (Annapurna Base Camp)

23rd Jan, 2017

10 Tips For Doing ABC Trek (Annapurna Base Camp)

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1 – Ask to be a part of a group with your Trekking agency

even if you are planning to (or prefer to) go alone. Bookings in upper Annapurna sanctuary are not guaranteed if you are alone. They prefer to give rooms out to larger groups. Not much of written bookings are taken in most of the lodges - most are verbal commitments to your guide or trekking agency via phone saying they “will have” the room when you arrive – but in busy season the first ones to get there with larger group end up taking your spot. Being of part of a group dose not mean you have to be together with them during the day necessarily as long as you arrive at the same lodge at the same evening. Worst case – you may end up sharing a 6 to 8 person room. But if you still prefer to be on your own schedule – bring a light tent as a plan B if the lodges are full.

2 – No need to panic about squat toilets -

something I got asked frequently by western travelers. More than half of the lodges in all the ABC trek route have western toilets. If yours doesn’t happen to have one – hope on over to the one that has since most of the lodges are jumbled together within few hundred yards and most of the toilets are shared and are located outside. If you see the lodge lady act as if you belong there – if that fails slip 50 Rupees bill. Squatting on a tired knees of six days a trek is like getting a root canal.

3 – Go easy on alcohol.

Not much selection anyway. Best drink by far (for me) is following - order a hot ginger tea and a small bottle of Nepali dark rum (called “Khukuri Rum” – all the lodges carry it) add a few splash of it over tea and some sugar. Mild drink – will warm you up but doesn’t get you too drunk.

4 – Even though most of the lodges have electricity

charging the phone is a hit or miss due to lack of enough outlets and lack of enough power. Have a battery powered or solar powered chargers for your gadgets.

5 – If you need to stay connected get a CDMA sim card

(and a CDMA phone) at KTM. Pretty much works all the way to MBC/ABC.

6. Village with best view of mountains =>

Tadapani. Best place to stop for tea or lunch =>Upper Sinuwa. Village with best view of village itself => Chomrong. Villages you would rather skip staying => Bamboo and Himalaya (because of no view and limited number of lodges).

7 – Skip the Poon Hill trek

(that everyone seem to do early in the morning) if you are continuing on to Tadapani (which most of you will if you are doing ABC). On your way to Tadapani you climb to similar elevation as Poon Hill and get similar view of the Annapurna range on the way.

8 – If you forgot thermal packs –

you can use your aluminum water can as thermal pack when you go to bed. Just go to the Kitchen with the can and ask for it to be filled with hot water.

9 – “Dal/Bhat” Power Rules!!!

As you will soon learn from seeing porters put away heaps of it front their plates – do it at least once.

10 – Leave a day or two extra in your itinerary.

Saw many folks trying to squeeze trek from Chomrong to New Bridge in one day because they have to catch the flight and be back to work on Monday somewhere. Not a pleasant way to end your vacation.

10 Tips For Doing ABC Trek

1. Plan and Prepare: Research and plan your trek well in advance. Understand the route, necessary permits, and required gear.
2. Pack Wisely: Pack lightweight, weather-appropriate clothing and essentials. Don't forget a good pair of trekking boots.
3. Acclimatize Properly: Take your time to acclimatize to the altitude. Stay hydrated and listen to your body.
4. Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated at higher altitudes.
5. Engage with Locals: Interact with local people and immerse yourself in the culture. It enhances the trekking experience.
6. Capture Memories: Bring a good camera to capture the breathtaking views along the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
7. Be Weather Ready: Check the weather forecast regularly and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
8. Respect Nature: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Respect the environment and wildlife during your trek.
9. Stay Informed: Stay informed about trail conditions, updates, and any potential risks on the route.
10. Enjoy the Journey: Take breaks to appreciate the stunning landscapes. Enjoy the journey as much as reaching the destination.

Popular Local Lodges During Annapurna Base Camp Trek

1. Himalayan Tea House

Located in Ghorepani, this cozy tea house offers warm hospitality and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
2. ABC Guesthouse

Situated in Bamboo, this guesthouse provides a comfortable resting place with basic amenities for trekkers on their way to Annapurna Base Camp.
3. Machapuchare Lodge

Nestled in Deurali, Machapuchare Lodge offers a tranquil setting and delicious local cuisine for trekkers on the final stretch to ABC.
4. Annapurna Panorama Lodge

Located in Tadapani, this lodge provides panoramic views of the Annapurna range. It's a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
5. Fishtail Mountain Inn

Found in Sinuwa, Fishtail Mountain Inn offers a welcoming atmosphere and comfortable accommodations for trekkers heading to and from Annapurna Base Camp.