If you’re planning a trek in the Himalayas, then you should learn how to prepare for it before you begin. There are a number of important things to keep in mind, such as difficulty level, Permits, and Seasons. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your trek.
Moderately difficult
If you’re looking for a trek that’s adventurous and rewarding, consider the moderately difficult trek to Annapurna Base camp. This hike is a challenging experience combining diversity of culture and nature, and requires a good level of preparation and stamina. You’ll need to prepare for five or more hours of walking each day, and some basic fitness training.
The best time to hike the Annapurna Base Camp is in the autumn or winter months, when the weather is cooler and the mountains are shadier. The temperature may drop to as low as minus 17 degrees, but overall the trek is moderately difficult.
Seasons
Autumn is a popular time for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal. Although there is snow on the mountain, the weather during the lower valleys is still pleasant. It is also warm in comparison to winter days, making this season one of the best to experience this beautiful mountain range.
While there are other seasons to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, spring and autumn are the best times to visit this spectacular mountain range. You’ll enjoy stunning views, fresh trails, and more diversity of birds and mammals. The weather during these seasons is also relatively quiet, with fewer avalanches and heavier snowfall.
The weather in autumn is mild, with daytime temperatures of about 18 to 20 degrees Celsius and colder nights of seven to 12 degrees Celsius. You’ll likely have fewer crowds during this season and prices of accommodations, food, and tea are less expensive than during the warmer months.
Permits
If you are planning to do a trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, you must have the proper permits before you start your adventure. This region is a popular trekking destination in Nepal. Not only is the scenery spectacular, but it’s also easy to reach and accessible. This route is ideal for beginners, and you will find plenty of accommodations and food along the way. You will also have to purchase two permits.
The first permit is called an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. This permits allows you to trek within this area, and it will cost NPR 3,000. Once you have your permit, you’ll need to show two passport-style pictures to prove your identity. You can buy the permits online, or from a trekking agency.
Food
While hiking to Annapurna Base Camp, one of the most important things to consider is the food you eat. As you climb higher in the mountains, the variety of food choices becomes smaller. For breakfast, porridge is a good choice as it is healthy and provides the right amount of energy. It is also light and contains a lot of fiber and is packed with minerals.
While on your trek, you will also have the chance to experience the local culture and traditions. You can attend events such as the Annapurna Tourism Festival and Honey Hunting Festival, which are celebrated on the foothills of the Annapurna range. In addition, you will be able to observe the Hindu festival Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated in the Annapurna region in the spring.
Accommodations
Accommodations when trekking to Annapurna base camp are varied and depend on the season and altitude. During the peak season, March-May, the route is packed, while from September-December, it is less crowded. Generally, tea house accommodation costs around $2-5 a night. Tea houses offer simple but welcoming accommodations with friendly local hospitality.
The trek is risky, and it is highly recommended to hire a professional guide to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Accommodations in this region are not the same as those in more expensive lodges. In addition to the trekking experience itself, you’ll have time to experience the local culture, enjoy a sightseeing tour, and engage in a variety of activities.
Tea house accommodations are the most common type of accommodations available during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. They are run by locals and provide basic facilities. Most tea houses offer a bed and a mattress, as well as a blanket and pillow. The tea house usually has an attached bathroom, but amenities diminish as you reach higher altitude. You may have to pay extra for hot water or charging devices.
