How to Plan Your Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek in Kathmandu

If you’re looking for a breathtaking trekking experience in Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek should be on your radar. This 12-day trek takes you through stunning landscapes, from terraced rice paddies to dense forests, and ultimately to the base of the majestic Annapurna mountain range.

To make the most of your experience, it’s essential to plan ahead. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your ABC Trek in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Overview

The ABC Trek is a 12-day guided trek through the Himalayas, with the base camp located at an altitude of 4,130 meters. The trek is considered moderately challenging and requires a good level of fitness. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning views of the Himalayan range, crossing suspension bridges, and trekking through beautiful forests filled with rhododendron trees.

What’s Included

Before booking the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it’s important to know what is included in the package. This will help you understand what expenses you’ll need to cover during the trek. The following items are included in the cost of the tour:

• Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
• Kathmandu – Pokhara (Both way) in tourist bus
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
• Nepalese visa fee and international airfare to and from Kathmandu
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trekking
• Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
• Experienced English-speaking trekking guide including his transportation, salary, equipment, and insurance
• Porter service for your luggage

Please note that the cost of the tour does not include:

• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara except the Farewell dinner
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, sweets, snacks, etc.
• Travel insurance

Meeting and Pickup

You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point is Tribhuvan International Airport, Ring Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal. If you choose the pickup service, you’ll need to select a pickup point in Kathmandu.

It’s important to confirm the pickup time with the local provider in advance of your experience. The activity is open every day from 12:15 AM to 11:45 PM, starting on October 16, 2019, and ending on March 22, 2024. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

What to Expect

The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes 12 days, during which you’ll hike through stunning landscapes, encounter local culture, and challenge yourself physically. Here’s what you can expect during the trek:

• Stunning views of the Himalayan range
• Crossing suspension bridges over rivers
• Walking through beautiful forests filled with rhododendron trees
• Encounters with local culture and traditions
• Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at an altitude of 4,130 meters
• A dip in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda

Additional Info

Before booking the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, here are a few additional things to keep in mind:

• Your confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• The trek is not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals are allowed
• It is not recommended for pregnant women or people with high blood pressure or heart problems

Booking Your Tour

Ready to book your Annapurna Base Camp Trek? You can book directly through the Viator website at this link. On the website, you’ll find more information about the tour, including additional reviews, ratings, and frequently asked questions from previous guests.

Conclusion

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an experience of a lifetime, and proper planning is essential to make the most of it. By understanding the itinerary, what’s included, and what to expect, you can be fully prepared for the trekking adventure of a lifetime. Don’t forget to book your tour before you go!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kathmandu

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal, located in the central part of the country. It is a vibrant city, rich in history, culture, and traditions, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. However, like any travel destination, Kathmandu has its fair share of concerns and queries that travelers have before they visit the city. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Kathmandu.

1. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has a subtropical climate, which means it receives rainfall during most of the year. The best time to visit Kathmandu is during the autumn season (September to November) or spring season (March to May). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities, such as trekking and hiking.

2. What is the culture of Kathmandu like?

The culture of Kathmandu is a unique blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and other ethnic traditions. It is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, as evident from its ancient temples, monuments, and shrines. The people of Kathmandu are friendly and hospitable, and they take great pride in their cultural heritage. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering religious sites in Kathmandu, and conservative dressing is encouraged.

3. Where are the best places to visit in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Square. Other popular tourist attractions include the Garden of Dreams, Thamel, and the Narayanhiti Palace Museum.

4. How do I get around Kathmandu?

The most convenient way to get around Kathmandu is by hiring a taxi or using ride-sharing apps such as Uber or Pathao. Local buses and microbuses are also available, but they can be quite crowded and uncomfortable. Walking is another option, but it can be challenging due to the city’s narrow and uneven streets.

5. Is it safe to travel to Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is generally a safe city for travelers. However, as with any destination, there are certain precautions that one should take to ensure personal safety. Visitors are advised to remain vigilant, especially when traveling alone or at night. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common in tourist areas, so it is essential to stay aware of your surroundings.

6. What are the local customs that I should be aware of in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has several local customs that visitors should be aware of. For instance, it is customary to greet others with the traditional Nepalese greeting “Namaste,” which means “I honor the spirit in you.” Removing your shoes before entering religious sites is also a common custom in Kathmandu. Visitors should also dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas.

7. What is the currency used in Kathmandu? Where can I exchange money?

The currency used in Kathmandu is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange currency at banks and exchange counters located throughout the city. It is advisable to exchange money only at authorized exchange centers to avoid counterfeit money. ATMs are also widely available in Kathmandu.

8. What are the best souvenirs to buy from Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs to choose from. Some of the best souvenirs to buy from Kathmandu include prayer flags, hand-knitted sweaters, handmade paper products, thangka paintings, and pashmina shawls.

9. What is the food like in Kathmandu?

Nepalese cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices and flavors. Traditional Nepalese food typically includes rice, lentils, vegetables, and meat dishes. Popular Nepalese dishes include momos (dumplings), dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and curry), and Newari cuisine (traditional dishes popular in the Kathmandu Valley).

10. Can I trek in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers, with several trekking trails located within a few hours’ drive from the city. Popular treks from Kathmandu include the Langtang Valley Trek, Helambu Trek, and Shivapuri National Park Trek.

Conclusion

Kathmandu is a fascinating city to explore, with so much to see and experience. With this guide to the most frequently asked questions about Kathmandu, you are now better equipped to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city. Remember to respect the local customs, keep an eye on your personal belongings, and most importantly, have fun!