Everest base camp trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Maximum elevation

5,545 meters (18,192 feet)

5,416 meters/17,769 feet

Major Attractions

Mount Everest, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorak Shep, Base Camp of Mount Everest, Khumbu Glacier, Sherpa villages

Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Tilicho Lake, Jomsom, Manang, Poon Hill, Kalopani, Dhaulagiri ranges, Dharapani

Permits

A TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an Everest National Park permit

TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)

Total day / Itinerary 

12-14 days

12-21 days

Things to see on the trek

you will see beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, mountain streams, and terraced fields, as well as traditional villages and monasteries like Sama gompa, Rachen gompa, sho gompa, Lho gompa

you can expect to see diverse landscapes and terrains, including lush forests, and rocky terrain, mountain ranges, traditional villages, and glaciers, rivers, waterfalls, Hindu and Buddhist temples, and monasteries.

Difficulty

The trek is considered moderately difficult and strenuous

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, due to the high elevation and the distance covered.

Total distance

120 km

160-230 km

Side trekking routes

Gokyo Lakes Trek, Three Passes Trek, Renjo La Pass Trek, Island Peak

Thorong La Pass Trek, Tilicho Lake Trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trek, Mardi Himal Trek

Risk of altitude sickness

The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes place at high elevations and there is a risk of altitude sickness for trekkers. Its symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, insomnia, dizziness, and swelling of the hands, feet, and face. In severe cases, it can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs or brain, which can be life-threatening.

There is a risk of altitude sickness on the Annapurna Circuit Trek at the highest point of the trek (Thorong La Pass) is over 5,400 meters above sea level. It is important to acclimatize properly and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

cost

$1300-2000

$1000-2000

Flights

Kathmandu to Lukla

Kathmandu to Pokhara

Trekking routes

The trekking route of the Everest Base Camp Trek starts and ends in Lukla, Nepal. The route passes through traditional Sherpa villages, and lush forests, offering beautiful views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. The main stops on the trek include Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Gorak Shep, and Base Camp of Mount Everest, and return through the same route.

The journey leaves from the town of Besishahar and follows the Marsyangdi River, passing through Magar and Gurung traditional villages, lush subtropical forests, and terraced rice fields. After that, the trail ascends to the Thorong La pass, which provides breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. The journey ends in the city of Jomsom after passing the pass and descending to the revered Muktinath.

Best time September

September to November and March to May

September to November and March to Mayweather

weather

It is usually temperate and sunny during the trekking season, which runs from September to November and March to May. However, it can get chilly and snowy at night, especially at higher elevations.

The daytime temperature is relatively mild and the sky is typically clear during the spring season (March-May), but the evenings can get quite chilly. On the route to the base camp, a rhododendron woodland will be in full bloom at this time.

The days are typically clear and sunny during the fall season (September to November), but the nights can get very chilly, especially at higher altitudes. The base camp can see temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C).

From September to November and March to May, the weather is generally clear with good visibility, and moderate temperatures.

During the winter months, the temperatures can drop significantly, with heavy snowfall at higher elevations, making the trek challenging.

During the monsoon season, the region receives heavy rainfall from June to August, making the trail muddy and slippery, and visibility may be poor. It's also the time when leeches are seen on the trail.

Food and Facilities

Food: Available at most teahouses along the trek route, with varying availability and quality.

Accommodation: Basic lodges and teahouses provide accommodation, with shared bathrooms and dormitory-style rooms. Private rooms are available but can be quite expensive.

Electricity: Limited, typically only available in larger villages and through power generators at some teahouses.

Internet: Limited, typically only available in larger villages with slow connection speeds.

Hot shower: Available at some teahouses but not always reliable and can be quite expensive.

Laundry: Available at some teahouses but quality and availability can vary.

Drinking water: Available at most teahouses, either through taps or by purchasing bottles.

ATM and banks: Not available on the trek route, so it is important to bring enough cash for the duration of the trek.

Food: Food options are available in most towns and villages including local Nepali cuisine, as well as Western-style food. However, options may be limited in more remote areas.

Accommodation: Accommodation is available in the form of teahouses and lodges in most towns and villages. 

Electricity and internet: these facilities are available in most places but may be limited to more remote areas. Some lodges and teahouses may offer to charge services for a fee.

Hot shower: Hot shower facilities are available in some teahouses and lodges. They may also come at an additional cost.

Laundry: Laundry services are available along the Annapurna Circuit trek, but they may be limited or not available in more remote areas. They may also come at an additional cost.

Drinking water: Drinking water is available in most towns and villages along the Annapurna Circuit trek. 

ATM and Banks: these facilities are available in some places along the trek, but they may be limited or not available in more remote areas.

Preparation required physicalphysical physical

Physical fitness and proper training

Adequate gear and equipment

Obtaining necessary permits and arranging for a guide and porters

Acclimatization and planning for altitude sickness

Researching and familiarizing with the itinerary, route, and local culture

Obtaining travel and medical insurance

Vaccinations and obtaining necessary medical clearances

Packing appropriate clothing and supplies

Physical fitness

Acclimatization

Researching the trek and being familiar with the route, facilities, and weather conditions can help you prepare better.

Mental preparation

Obtain necessary permits: 

Insurance

Hiring a guide can be helpful because Guides will help you navigate the route, provide information about the area, and deal with any issues that may arise.

Packingstriking

Hiking boots

Warm and waterproof clothing and shoes

Sleeping bag and sleeping mat

Headlamp or flashlight

Water bottles and water purification tablets

First-aid kit and personal medication

Sunscreen and sunglasses

Hat or beanie

Warm gloves and thermal layers

Down jacket

Rain gear

Personal hygiene items

Camera and extra batteries

Cash and credit card

Travel documents and permits

Warm clothing

Rain gear: Waterproof jacket and pants, poncho, or umbrella.

Hiking gear: Hiking boots, hiking poles, gaiters.

Sleeping gear: Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and a liner.

Headlamp and spare batteries.

First aid kit

Personal hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.

Sunscreen and sunglasses.

Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate.

Camera and extra batteries

Passport, permits, and travel insurance documents

Cash and credit cards

Maps and guidebooks