Annapurna Base Campअन्नपूर्ण बेस क्याम्प

⚠ Travel Notes

• ·Altitude sickness is a real risk at 4,130m despite the relatively short approach — the ascent from Pokhara to ABC can be completed in 5-6 days, which is fast enough that some trekkers develop AMS symptoms; do not skip acclimatization nights at Chhomrong or MBC
• ·The Annapurna Sanctuary is prone to avalanche closure, particularly the section between Deurali and MBC — this route can be blocked without warning after heavy snowfall, and trekkers have been stranded for multiple days; check conditions before entering the gorge
• ·Monsoon season (June–August) makes the trail to ABC genuinely hazardous — leeches are heavy below 3,000m, landslides regularly cut the path near Bamboo and Dovan, and the gorge section becomes dangerous; most experienced operators avoid this window
• ·Two separate permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card — both must be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trailhead; there are checkpoints that verify these
• ·Guesthouse accommodation fills quickly during peak season (October–November and March–April) — the trail is heavily trafficked and the number of lodges at ABC itself is limited; booking ahead or starting early in the season avoids the worst crowding
• ·Machhapuchhre is a restricted peak and entry into the sanctuary requires staying on designated trails — independent off-trail exploration is not permitted under ACAP regulations
• ·Temperature at base camp drops well below freezing at night even in October — trekkers underestimating the cold at 4,130m relative to the warm lower valleys frequently arrive without adequate sleeping gear; a minimum 3-season sleeping bag is necessary