How to Plan Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek 14 Days in Kathmandu

Are you an adventure seeker and want to explore the Himalayas? Then, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek might be a perfect fit for you. This trek will take you through stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible hospitality. Planning your Annapurna Base Camp Trek 14 Days can be a bit daunting, but with this guide, you will know exactly what to expect and how to be fully prepared for your journey.

Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. This trek is perfect for novice and experienced trekkers and explores the Annapurna region of the Himalayas, which has some of the highest peaks in the world. The trip is 14 days long, covering a total of 115 kilometers with an altitude of up to 4,130 meters. What’s included in this trek? You will have twin sharing accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Also, the trek’s twin sharing guesthouse accommodation during your trekking days is included. You will be picked up from the airport or your hotel and dropped off in a private vehicle. However, international air tickets, travel and rescue insurance, and Nepal entry visas are not included in the price.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for this trek is at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Ring Rd Kathmandu 44600 Nepal. You will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel. The tour includes a sightseeing day in Kathmandu the day after your arrival, followed by a six-hour tourist bus ride to Pokhara on day three. The trek officially starts on day four in Pokhara, where you will embark on a six-hour trek to Ulleri (2050m/6725ft).

What to Expect

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu (1400 m)After arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative who will take you to your hotel in Kathmandu.Day 2 – Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek PreparationToday, take a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu and finalize all your last-minute preparations with your trekking company. Day 3 – Kathmandu to Pokhara by Tourist Bus Duration: 6 hoursOn the third day, you will take a six-hour tourist bus ride to the beautiful town of Pokhara, home to stunning lakeside views and known as the gateway to the Himalayas. Day 4 – Trek to Ulleri (2050m/6725ft) Duration: 6 hoursThis is the official start of your 14-day trek. You will trek through lush rhododendron forests, climb over 3,000 stone steps, and finally arrive at Ulleri, a beautiful Magar village. Day 5 – Ulleri to Ghorepani (2750 m/ 9020 ft) Duration: 5 hours trekThe trail today is steeper, but the vibrant rhododendron forests and the stunning view of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains will surely mesmerize you. Day 6 – Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill for Sunrise (3210m/10529ft) Trek to Tadapani (2700m/8860ft) Duration: 6 hrsThis is one of the most incredible days of your trek. You will wake up early in the morning to hike up to Poon Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. After spending some time and taking photos, you will continue the trek to Tadapani. Day 7 – Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170m/7120ft) Duration: 6 hours TrekToday’s trek is through the dense forest, and you will be accompanied by the sounds of various birds chirping. After reaching Chhomrong, you will have the chance to witness the beautiful mountain range of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Fishtail. Day 8 – Chhomrong to Bamboo (2310 m/7578 ft) Duration: 5 hours TrekToday’s trek brings you to the picturesque village of Bamboo. The way is filled with waterfalls, and the forests get denser as the day goes by. Day 9 – Bamboo to Deurali (3230 m/10,595 ft) Duration: 4-5 hours TrekToday’s trek route is known for its vast natural geography, and it takes you through thick bamboo and rhododendron forests. After crossing the Hinku cave and experiencing the Himalayan glacial river, you will finally reach Deurali.Day 10 – Deurali To Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft) Via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m/12,139 ft) Duration: 5-6 hours TrekToday, you will experience one of the most breathtaking destinations: the Annapurna Base Camp. You will walk through an alpine forest and finally reach the Annapurna base camp. After spending some time there, you will return to Machhapuchhre base camp for an overnight stay.Day 11 – Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Bamboo Duration: 7-8 hours TrekAfter a relaxing morning and breakfast, you will continue your journey down to Bamboo, where you will enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the local people. Day 12 – Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1760 m/5770 ft) Duration: 5-6 hours TrekOn your way to Jhinu Danda, you can stop by the natural hot springs, where you can take a relaxing dip and rejuvenate yourself.Day 13 – Jhinu Danda to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara Duration: 6-7 hours TrekOn the final day of your trek, you will trek to Nayapul, where you will catch a jeep back to Pokhara.Day 14: Return to KathmanduYou can spend the day exploring Pokhara and take the night tourist bus back to Kathmandu, where our representative will drop you off at your hotel or the airport.

Book your Tour

To book your Annapurna Base Camp Trek 14 Days, head over to Viator’s website and book the tour here: book the tour here. Be sure to book your tour early to secure your spot and to guarantee the best possible experience.

Conclusion

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a breathtaking experience that will leave an indelible mark on your life. With this guide, you’re now equipped with all the necessary information to plan and prepare for your trek. However, keep in mind that trekking can be tough, so make sure to stay hydrated, rest when needed, and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Good luck on your journey!

Most Frequently Asked Questions about Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and scenic beauty. It is a popular tourist destination among travelers from all over the world. Here are the most frequently asked questions and their answers about Kathmandu.

1) What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November and from March to May. During these periods, the weather is mild, and the sky is clear, offering a perfect view of the majestic Himalayas.

2) What are the top tourist attractions in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu offers a variety of tourist attractions, including historical landmarks, religious sites, and natural beauty. Some of the top tourist attractions in Kathmandu are:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Durbar Square
• Thamel
• Garden of Dreams

3) What is the transportation system like in Kathmandu?

The transportation system in Kathmandu is not very organized, but there are various modes of transportation available. You can travel by bus, taxi, or rickshaw. Please note that the traffic can be very congested in Kathmandu, so it is best to avoid peak hours.

4) What should I wear while visiting religious sites in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has several religious sites, and it is important to dress appropriately while visiting them. Men and women should cover their arms and legs, and women should wear clothes that cover their heads. You should also remove your shoes before entering the religious sites.

5) What are some popular Nepalese dishes that I should try in Kathmandu?

Nepalese cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and unique taste. Some of the popular dishes that you should try in Kathmandu are:

• Momo (steamed dumplings)
• Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice)
• Chatamari (Nepalese pizza)
• Sel Roti (sweet fried bread)
• Thukpa (spicy noodle soup)
• Sekuwa (grilled meat)

6) Is it safe to travel to Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is generally a safe place to travel, but travelers should take certain precautions. It is best to avoid traveling alone at night, and make sure to keep your valuables safe. You should also be aware of pickpockets and scam artists.

7) What is the currency used in Kathmandu?

The currency used in Kathmandu is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange your currency at the airport, banks, or money exchange centers.

8) What are some cultural norms that I should be aware of while in Kathmandu?

Nepalese culture is unique, and there are some cultural norms that travelers should be aware of. Here are some of them:

• Never touch anyone’s head, as it is considered disrespectful.
• Always use your right hand for eating, handshakes, and giving and receiving things.
• Do not point your feet at people or religious sites, as it is considered rude.
• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s house or religious site.

9) What are some popular trekking destinations near Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is the gateway to the Himalayas, and there are several popular trekking destinations near Kathmandu. Some of them are:

• Langtang Valley Trek
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Gokyo Lakes Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Trek

10) What is the altitude of Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is an incredible destination with an abundance of culture and history to explore. Home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, bustling markets, ancient temples and stupas, the city is full of amazing things to see and do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning tourist, here’s how to make the most of your time in Kathmandu.

1. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa – Monkey Temple

Swayambhunath Stupa is a must-visit destination when in Kathmandu. Built-in the 5th century, this iconic stupa is considered one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. The site is also known as the Monkey Temple because of the large population of monkeys that inhabit the area. Visitors will need to climb up more than 300 steps to reach the stupa, but the climb is worth it for the incredible views of the city.

2. Explore Durbar Square

Located in the heart of the city, Durbar Square is a stunning complex of palaces, temples, and courtyards that date back to the 12th century. The site was once the palace of the Nepali Royalty, and today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can admire the intricate wood carvings and intricate architecture of the temples and palaces. Don’t forget to visit the Kumari House to see the living goddess of Nepal.

3. Take a Trekking Tour to the Himalayas

Kathmandu is known as the gateway to the Himalayas, and taking a trekking tour is the perfect way to experience these majestic mountains up close. There are a variety of tours available, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Visitors can trek along the Annapurna Circuit or even climb to the base camp of Mount Everest. Whatever your experience level, there’s a trekking tour for you.

4. Visit Pashupatinath Temple

Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and visitors can witness the daily rituals and offerings to the deity. Visitors should also take a walk along the river to see the cremation ghats, where Hindus perform last rites for their loved ones.

5. Shop at Thamel Market

Thamel is the tourist hub of Kathmandu, and its bustling markets are a shopper’s paradise. Visitors can buy traditional handicrafts, clothing, and authentic Nepali souvenirs. Don’t forget to bargain with the vendors for the best prices.

6. Enjoy a Local Meal

Nepali cuisine is delicious, and there are plenty of restaurants and street food vendors to try the local dishes. Visitors should try popular dishes like momos, dal bhat, and thukpa. For a unique dining experience, head to Bhojan Griha, where you can enjoy a traditional Nepali meal while watching cultural performances.

7. Visit Boudhanath Stupa

Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The stupa is located in the Tibetan neighborhood of Kathmandu and is an important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Visitors can walk around the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and watch the monks chanting and praying.

8. Take a Cooking Class

If you’re interested in learning how to cook Nepali cuisine, a cooking class is a great way to do it. Several cooking schools in Kathmandu offer classes where you can learn to make momos, dal bhat, and other local dishes.

9. Visit Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site located just south of Kathmandu. The square is home to several temples, palaces, and courtyards that date back to the 14th century. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture and artwork of the buildings and temples.

10. Attend a Festival

Kathmandu is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. Visitors should try to attend one of these festivals to experience the local culture and traditions. Some of the most popular festivals include Holi, Diwali, and the Nepal International Marathon.

Conclusion

Kathmandu offers an incredible range of culture, history, and adventure for every kind of traveler. By following these tips, you’re sure to have an incredible time in this beautiful city. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos, try the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Kathmandu.