Cost Includes:

Transportation: Private car/jeep from Pokhara to Nayapul.

Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off at the domestic airport in Pokhara by car.

Helicopter Flight: Shared helicopter ride from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara.

Accommodation: Best possible teahouse/lodge accommodation (generally twin-sharing rooms).

Meals: 3 standard meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.

Experienced Guide: Government-licensed English-speaking Sherpa expedition and trekking leader. For groups of 8 or more, an assistant guide is provided.

Porters: Strong and helpful Sherpa porters with safety equipment and walking gear. One porter for two trekkers, covering their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance.

Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fees.

Evening Fresh Fruits: Fresh fruit served every evening after dinner.

Taxes and Official Expenses: All government, local taxes, and official expenses included.

Rescue Assistance: Assistance in case of health complications (funded by travel insurance).

Certificates and Gifts: Appreciation certificate from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking after the successful trek and a branded T-shirt.

Oxygen Monitoring: Oxygen meter to monitor pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate daily (helpful for Altitude Mountain Sickness symptoms).

Extra Guide Support: Additional assistant guide for groups of 8 or more.

Cost Excludes:

International Flights: Airfare for international flights.

Visa Fees: Nepal entry visa (easily obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport; $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, and $125 for 90 days).

Accommodation and Meals in Kathmandu: Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before or after the trek.

Lunch and Dinner in Pokhara: Meals in Pokhara.

Hotel Stays: Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Additional Night Stay: Extra nights in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure.

Drinks and Snacks: All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, hot beverages, and extra food/snacks on the trek.

Personal Gear: Personal clothing and trekking gear.

Travel Insurance: Must cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation.

Tips: Tips for guides and porters (recommended by local culture).

Unforeseen Expenses: Additional costs due to unforeseen delays or issues such as landslides, weather conditions, or changes in itinerary.

Weather on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The weather in the Annapurna region can be unpredictable, and temperatures can vary significantly depending on the altitude and time of year. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best seasons for the trek, offering clear skies and moderate temperatures. Winter (December-February) can be very cold, especially at higher altitudes, while summer/monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rainfall and increased risk of landslides.

Food During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

During the trek, you'll be provided with three standard meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food is simple but nutritious, consisting mainly of dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, momos (dumplings), and Tibetan bread. Vegetarian options are widely available. At higher altitudes, the food options are more limited but still fulfilling. It's also advisable to carry some energy bars or snacks for extra energy on the trail.

Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Accommodation along the Annapurna Base Camp trek is generally in teahouses or lodges, which offer basic facilities. Rooms are usually shared (twin beds), with simple bedding. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the lodges become more basic. At Annapurna Base Camp itself, accommodation is minimal, but you'll still find cozy lodges with essential services. While staying in the teahouses, expect communal dining rooms with a warm stove and a friendly atmosphere.

Packing List for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Packing the right gear is crucial for a successful trek. Here is a suggested packing list:

Clothing:

Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers
Insulating layers (fleece or down jacket)
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Trekking pants and shorts
Warm gloves, hat, and scarf
Comfortable trekking boots
Woolen socks and liners
Sunglasses and sunscreen

Essential Gear:

Sleeping bag (4-season for colder weather)
Trekking poles (helpful for steep ascents/descents)
Water bottle or hydration system
Headlamp with extra batteries
Daypack for short hikes around the base camp
First aid kit with necessary medications
Camera or smartphone for photos

Miscellaneous:

Power bank for charging devices
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, wet wipes, etc.)
Snacks like energy bars, trail mix, and nuts
Travel insurance documents and photocopies of passports

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization

Altitude sickness can occur when trekking at higher elevations, so it's essential to acclimatize properly. Trek slowly and allow time for your body to adjust to the thinner air. If you feel symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, notify your guide immediately. The guides will ensure you're well taken care of and may recommend a rest day to aid in your acclimatization.

Helicopter Flight Back from Annapurna Base Camp

The helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara is a scenic experience, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, glaciers, and surrounding valleys. It’s a quick and comfortable way to descend after completing the trek, allowing you to avoid the long walk back down. However, flights are subject to weather conditions, so flexibility in your schedule is advised.

With proper preparation, your Annapurna Base Camp Trek with a helicopter return will be an unforgettable adventure!

Vertical Madness and Himalayan Miracles

“Not a mountain person? Neither was I. But something about Annapurna's raw beauty demanded surrender. Our Sherpa guides were part navigator, part philosopher, part miracle worker. Moments of pure exhaustion mixed with absolute wonder. The helicopter ride back felt like floating above my own limitations, watching a landscape that had just rewritten my understanding of personal strength.”

Annapurna Base camp Trek Chopper Return

Cost Includes:

Cost Excludes: