Hire a Guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek falls into two primary trekking seasons: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Even though the beginning of September to the end of May are very good times for the Annapurna Base Camp, proper preparation is needed during the months of December, January, and February. By choosing the best trekking season, you'll maximize your chances of enjoying clear views, pleasant weather, and a memorable trekking experience to Annapurna Base Camp.

Spring (March to May)

• Weather: The weather is generally stable and warm during the day, with longer days and stable temperatures, making for comfortable trekking conditions. Nights can still be cold at higher elevations, but not as harsh as in winter.
• Scenery:This season is known for its vibrant rhododendron blooms and lush greenery. The clear skies offer stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Autumn (September to November)

• Weather:Post-monsoon, the weather is stable with clear skies and excellent visibility. Daytime temperatures are moderate, and nights are colder but manageable with proper gear.
• Scenery:The landscapes are lush and green after the monsoon rains, and the clear skies provide some of the best views of the surrounding mountains.
• Festivals:This period coincides with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering a unique cultural experience.

Winter (December to February):

While possible, winter trekking to ABC can be challenging due to cold temperatures and the risk of snow blocking the trails. Only experienced trekkers with an experienced guide should consider this season for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Monsoon (June to August):

The monsoon season brings heavy rains, leeches, and slippery trails, making it the least favorable time for the trek. However, some trekkers have still trekked there, being prepared for rain and humidity.

Cost of Hire a Guide, Porter cum Guide and Porter:

The cost of hiring a guide, a porter-cum-guide, or a porter for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek varies depending on several factors, including the trekking agency, the season, and the experience of the staff. Booking through High Pass Adventure ensures that all arrangements are made properly, including permits, insurance, and necessary logistics.

We provide the best guide, porter, or porter-cum-guide for the ABC trek based on your request. All our working teams are experienced, well-trained, and certified by the Nepal Government. Trained guides have extensive knowledge of the area's culture, history, and nature due to their experience. Most guides are fluent in English, allowing them to explain everything in detail.

A porter-cum-guide is a good option if you need assistance with some of your luggage. They have Basic English skills for translation and explanation, and are familiar with the route. This option is more budget-friendly than hiring a professional guide.

If you have previous trekking experience and are doing a solo trek, hiring a porter is the best option. Porters are also experienced and familiar with the routes. They can provide basic English translation and explanation. The cost of a porter-cum-guide is lower than that of both a professional guide and a porter.

The cost of Guide, Porter and Porter cum Guide is given below: - 

Professional and experienced Guide

• Daily Rate: $30 - $45 USD per day. Depends on language guide
• Inclusions: The guide's daily wage, insurance,  food and accommodation.

Porter-Cum-Guide

• Daily Rate: $25 - $35 USD per day.
• Inclusions: The porter-cum-guide's daily wage, insurance, and food and accommodation. This option combines the roles of both a porter and a guide.

Porter

• Daily Rate: $18- $25 USD per day.
• Inclusions: The porter’s daily wage, insurance, and food and accommodation. A porter typically carries your gear, while you focus on trekking.

Luggage Load Carried by Porters 

If you are trekking in Nepal with just a guide, the guide will not carry your luggage because they are professionals and have their own luggage to carry. In this case, you can hire a porter-cum-guide who handles both guiding and carrying your luggage, typically about 10 to 12 kg. If you are in a group, we usually assign one porter for every two trekkers, so each trekker's luggage should weigh around 10 kg. A porter typically carries 20 to 25 kg during the trek in Nepal. Trekking with both a guide and a porter makes walking easier and gives you more free time to enjoy the trek, resulting in a memorable trekking experience in Nepal.

Required Permits and Permits Cost for ABC Trek

For the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, you need two primary permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) Card. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is situated in the Annapurna Conservation Area, so it is necessary to buy the ACAP permits for entrance. The TIMS card is for tracking trekkers, ensuring their safety and security during trekking activities.

Both of these permits are compulsory for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These permits are obtained through registered trekking agencies from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara. It's recommended to obtain these permits in advance to avoid any hassles during your trek.

You must carry these permits with you throughout the entire trek and present them at every checkpoint along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. If you are found trekking without these permits, you will have to purchase them on the spot at double the cost (penalty), or you may be required to turn back.

TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card

• It Cost US$ 20 per person/ per Trek

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits 

• It cost US$ 30 only per person/ per trek

Is Possible doing ABC Trek without a guide?

It was possible to trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) without a guide before April 1, 2023, but now it is mandatory to have a guide due to a new rule by the Nepal Government. This rule requires all foreign trekkers to hire a guide for safety reasons. Whether you are trekking solo or in a group, you must hire a guide through an authorized trekking agency.

The government has implemented this rule to ensure the safety of trekkers. There have been numerous accidents and fatalities in remote area treks, and this measure aims to minimize such risks and ensure a safer trekking experience.

Why hire a guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek with us?

You will get numerous benefits by choosing High Pass Adventure for your trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. These advantages make you the best choice for a memorable and safe journey experience. High Pass Adventure employs seasoned guides with extensive knowledge of the terrain, culture, and safety protocols. Their genuine dedication ensures that your holiday is carefully organized to be the most breathtaking experience of a lifetime. They provide invaluable insights and support throughout the trek.

We always offer tailored itineraries based on client preferences and fitness levels with comprehensive package services. Our itinerary and cost details are always clear, with sections indicating what costs are included and excluded. High Pass Adventure prioritizes safety with well-trained guides, first aid kits, and emergency evacuation plans. Regular health checks and acclimatization schedules minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

We are willing to work with you to develop an appropriate itinerary and provide a wonderful mix of high-quality accommodations, intimate small-group excursions, family tours, solitary treks, honeymoon treks, and group treks. Additionally, our guides hire strong porters to assist with carrying the luggage and have a general understanding of first aid equipment in addition to having years of expertise in the trekking industry.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty 

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is considered to have a moderate difficulty level, requiring 5 to 8 hours of walking per day. The trail is well-maintained, with a mix of uphill and downhill terrain at progressively increasing altitudes.

This trek typically takes 9 to 12 days. Moderate fitness is required, but good health, physical fitness, and mental preparedness to ascend to 4,120 meters are highly recommended. Some experience in multi-day hiking or trekking is beneficial.

Starting at Hile or Thikhe Dhunga, where you'll spend your first night at an altitude of 1,500 meters, the trek ascends to 4,120 meters at Annapurna Base Camp. From Deurali to ABC, the trail poses more difficulty due to significant altitude gain and rugged terrain, but it is generally not extreme. Proper acclimatization days, such as staying at Machapuchare Base Camp, help trekkers adjust to the elevation and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

The trek to the base camp of the tenth-highest mountain in the world is definitely not simple. Some sections of the trail are relatively challenging, with steep slopes and rocky terrain within lush bamboo and rhododendron forests. Some parts of the trail can be prone to landslides and avalanches. Snowfall and rainfall can make the trek more challenging, so it is important to prepare with proper seasonal equipment.

Having a guide and porter is highly recommended for successfully completing the ABC Trek without difficulties. A guide will provide valuable information and assistance, while a porter will carry your luggage, making your trip to ABC more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Accommodation in Annapurna Base Camp Trek

There are many accommodations and restaurants along the trekking trail to Annapurna Base Camp up to Chomrong, as new houses and rooms are added for trekkers every year. So, you can easily find comfortable accommodation until Chomrong. However, above Chomrong, there are limited teahouses, and each teahouse has limited accommodations controlled by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. During the peak season, it can be difficult to find a private room, so you may have to share with other trekkers. Almost all teahouses strive to provide the best service for all travelers.

Normally, lodges have one or two private rooms (2 beds per room) with shared indoor bathrooms. Other rooms often have five to six beds, similar to a dormitory. There are no luxury lodges like those found on the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp treks. Teahouses also offer hot showers for an additional fee. Charging electronic devices is usually available for a fee as well, but it's recommended to carry a power bank.

Food in Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Food during the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is primarily provided by the teahouses along the trail. Every teahouse has a food menu, and the food items are almost the same at every teahouse in each location. You can choose food from the menu based on your requirements. Most of the teahouses grow fresh vegetables in their gardens and serve them to customers, especially at lower altitudes.

The cooks are generally trained, but the taste of the food might be a bit different from Western cuisine. Fresh meat is totally prohibited in the Annapurna Base Camp area, so it is advisable to be vegetarian during the ABC trekking routes.

Breakfast:

• Porridge:Oatmeal or other grain-based porridge.
• Bread:Tibetan bread, chapati, or toast with jam, honey, or peanut butter.
• Eggs:Boiled, scrambled, fried, or in an omelet.
• Pancakes:Often served with honey, Jam or chocolate spread.
• Tea/Coffee:Local tea, black tea, green tea, or instant coffee.

Lunch and Dinner:

• Dal Bhat:A traditional Nepali meal consisting of rice, lentil soup (dal), vegetable curry, and sometimes meat. It is highly recommended due to its balanced nutrition and energy content.
• Noodles:Fried noodles, noodle soup, or Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup).
• Rice Dishes:Fried rice or rice with curry.
• Momos:Nepali dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served steamed or fried.
• Pizza:Basic pizza, often with a thick crust and limited toppings.
• Pasta:Simple pasta dishes like spaghetti or macaroni with sauce.
• Soups:Various soups, including garlic soup (recommended for altitude sickness prevention), vegetable soup, and tomato soup.

Recommendations

• Dal Bhat Power:As the saying goes, "Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour!" It's a nutritious and filling option that provides sustained energy for trekking.
• Hydration:Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, tea, and soup.
• Energy Boosters:Carry high-energy snacks like nuts, chocolate, and dried fruits to maintain energy levels during the trek.

Drinking water in Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Safe drinking water is an important factor during the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek. Staying hydrated is essential for successfully completing the trip, especially at high altitudes. Bottled water is available in teahouses and shops along the trek up to Chomrong, but prices increase as you ascend, typically ranging from NPR 100 to NPR 300 per liter.

Above Chomrong, bottled water is completely prohibited due to the high environmental impact of plastic waste in the mountains. However, teahouses provide boiled water for an extra fee, typically ranging from NPR 200 to NPR 400 per liter. Therefore, bringing a water bottle is highly recommended for all trekkers.

There are natural water sources available, such as streams, rivers, and tap water in many places along the trek, but this water should always be purified before drinking. For water purification, you can use water purification tablets, water filters, or UV purification. You can also ask your guide for information about safe drinking water during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. 

Trekking Gear List 

Travel equipment are necessary to pack before you travel.  We hope it is too much to carry from your home to others country but some are the necessary equipment can be hired or buy in Kathmandu around Thamel. These general equipment are for all seasons while on trekking in Nepal, but may be different as per the different season and duration of trekking routes on your chosen trip.

Documents: 

• Passport and 4 passport size photos 
• Travel insurance details (in case an emergency evacuation if needed)
• Boarding passes for flights
• Driver’s license (if needed)
• Cash USD
• Credit/Debit Card (Ensure you have $500 on your card incase an emergency helicopter evacuation is needed)

Sleeping:

• Sleeping bag (Comfort rating -15 Celsius recommended)
• Sleeping bag liner (Optional)

Footwear:

• Trekking boots: one pair  lightweight
• Sandals for city and tea house footwear 
• Shoes for the plane and tea houses (Optional)
• Gaiters for hiking in winter to the base camp
• Thin, lightweight inner socks
• Thick, warm wool hiking socks

Clothing for Body: 
Please make sure that you have non-cotton clothing for trekking:

• Base-layer t-shirts (e.g. running t-shirts)
• Fleece/Windproof jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Down jacket for warmth
• Travel clothes and City Wear
• Underwear
• Base-layer trousers (optional)
• Waterproof trousers
• Trekking trousers
• Trekking shorts (Optional)
• Gloves and wool hat
• bandanna or scarf 

Health Requirements (Basic First Aid Kit)

• First-aid kit; should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea
• Re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking if any particular
• Wet wipes for cleaning can be purchased in Kathmandu

Others: 

• Sunglasses and Sun cream 
• Towel
• Book (reading and writing materials)
• MP-3 /Music, headphones and ear plug (who know some people on group are snoring) as optional.
• Travel wash
• Hand sanitizer, wet wipes
• A day bag: 35 liters
• A duffel or rucksack with straps to go over your back (Max 12 kg of weight for porters to carry)
• Dry Liner or Dry Bag
• Water bottle/thermos/ camel bag: At least 2 L. Nalgen bottles best.

General Toiletries

•  Toilet papers/ tissue 
• Contact lenses, Glasses (if needed)
• 1 medium sized quick drying towel
• Tooth brush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
• Multipurpose soaps (preferably biodegradable)
• Large plastic bags – for keeping items dry inside your kit / duffel bag
• Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, and scrabble. (for luxuries) 
• Binoculars (for luxuries)
• Trail Map/Guide book (if you are alone)