One of the best and most liked trekking trails in the Himalayas; the Annapurna base camp trek is truly amazing. With great mountain views, landscapes, flora, and fauna as well as the local rural settlements, the trek offer one experience. Getting into the heart of the Himalayas, witnessing the grandeur of the majestic nature, and getting insight into the local culture and lifestyle, experiences are absolutely once in a lifetime. What makes the Annapurna Base Camp trek so special?
The trek can be combined with some other lower altitude treks. But Ghorepani Poon hill is the most popular and probably the best option for it includes some amazing sceneries. The likes of Poonhill, Gurung hill, and Tapadapani are the places from where some of the best views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges can be enjoyed. Walking along the river, crossing several jaw-dropping suspension bridges, receiving greetings from locals, sharing the ever-winding trail with ponies, etc are so unique and beautiful.
Every year Annapurna base camp attracts thousands of trekkers. As the number speaks for itself, this is truly rewarding and special trek in the Himalaya. Here I would like to share what really makes it so special.
Easy Access
The Annapurna region is connected with major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara with various transportation means. Unlike other Himalayan region, you could start the trek by taking any means of transportation which is easily available. It gives you the options which makes things easier to plan based on your time and budget.
Level of Difficulty & Altitude
The trek takes you to the base camp of the one of the highest mountains on earth. But like nowhere else, it’s just slightly above 4000m you have to ascend. Trekking along the pretty easy trail just for a few days will take you to the base camp of world’s 10th highest mountains without having to climb higher like in other Himalayan base camp treks. It’s really unique. So, unlike the name suggests the trek is with moderate difficulty. This trek is absolutely suitable for senior citizens and also for the children. If you would like to skip an overnight stay at Base camp, you could still do and enjoy the trek without spending a night above 4000m.
Flexible itinerary
Depending on your time and interest, you could choose either a longer or shorter version of itineraries like Annapurna base camp trek 14 days or Annapurna base camp trek 11 days. The trek can be done and equally enjoyed in as minimum as a week. But if you could afford a longer holiday and want to see more, the program can be customized to your preference. As it includes the different routes, it’s not like walking the same trail faster. So, you could still trek at a relaxed and comfortable pace even if you go with a shorter version.
Diverse scenery and flora & fauna
The sceneries of the Annapurna are really jaw-dropping. The ranges like Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri can be enjoyed if you also include Poon hill as part of the trek. The views of the mountains, valleys, rivers, and villages are so diverse and enchanting. The 360-degree view of the mountains at the base camp is simply second to none. And in terms of flora and fauna, the Annapurna base camp trek is so rich. More than 1200 species of flowering plants are found here. If you trek during the Spring of March, April & May, you will be awestruck by the blossoming rhododendrons which with glittering mountains look absolutely gorgeous. More than 100 species of animals and almost 500 types of birds are found. Coming across some of them will certainly add thrill to your adventure.
