When presented with two of the most exciting places to go for trekking in Nepal, you may find yourself torn between the two. This happens when people learn about the Annapurna Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Both have diverse landscapes, amazing flora and fauna and often witness some of the most captivating cultural events in the world. Comparing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek can be all it takes to determine which is ideal for you.
Luckily, we have done all the heavy lifting for you and created a detailed comparison of ABC and AC Trek.
Video: Annapurna Base Camp
Difficulty Rating: Annapurna Base Camp vs Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit trek has a moderate to strenuous rating, which means it is not ideal for beginners.
It includes long trails with many twists and turns, ascents and descents, diverse terrain, and extremely high altitude. All these factors make it especially challenging for beginners or novice trekkers.
However, it provides advanced trekkers with the challenge they need to enjoy the outdoors. It has many tourist attractions and things to do along the way. Its highest point or final destination is approximately 5,400 meters or 17,700 feet above sea level.
The Annapurna Base Camp is classified as a moderate trek. That means it is relatively easier to complete compared to the AC. It includes well-maintained pathways, fewer challenges in terms of terrain and climatic conditions, and can be completed within fewer days.
It starts at an elevation of approximately 1,071 meters above sea level and continues gradually to a final destination of about 4,130 meters above sea level.
Overall, the ABC is highly recommended for beginners and novice trekkers. Of course, advanced trekkers will also find it exciting and memorable. On the other hand, the AC can present multiple challenges to newbies and novices which is why it is a better option for advanced trekkers.
Photos: Braga in Manang Valley en route to Annapurna Circuit
Distance and Time: Annapurna Base Camp vs Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit covers a total distance of about 260 kilometres or 161 miles. You can complete a shorter version of the trek depending on your starting point. Keep in mind that you may choose to take other means of transport to cover some of the distance before embarking on the actual hike.
Because of the long distance, you will require at least 14 days to complete the hike. You can increase the number of days to 21 if you want to move at a slower pace or wish to engage in other activities along the way.
If you choose to trek for 16 days you will need to cover about 20 kilometers every day. You can trek for about 16 kilometers daily if you settle on the 21-day plan.
In most cases, organisers advise trekkers to walk for at least 5 hours daily. To complete the rail within a few days, you may need to keep walking for over 7 hours each day.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek covers a distance of approximately 110 kilometers or 68 miles. Again, this may be shorter depending on the starting point. Organisers allow trekkers to pick an itinerary that is most suitable to their preferences and needs.
For instance, experienced trekkers can complete the distance within 7 days as long as they cover 20 kilometres daily. Advanced trekkers can cover a distance of just over 10 kilometres daily and complete the trek within 10 days.
Beginners can complete the trek in 14 days and will have to cover less than 10 kilometres daily. Trekkers spend 6 to 7 hours on the road before setting up camp or finding accommodation at local lodges or teahouses.
Video: Annapurna Circuit
Route and Terrain Difficulty: Annapurna Base Camp vs Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp trek has several well-maintained paths which makes it a relatively easy place to walk. There are stone stairs, a suspended bridge, and flat footpaths making it easy for just about anyone to move.
The trail has clear markings which eliminates chances of getting lost. Additionally, many people love trekking here which is why there is usually a significant number of people throughout the trail.
On the other hand, the Annapurna Circuit has diverse pathways and terrain. There are some well-maintained paths but you will also encounter areas that feature loose rocks, mud, slippery edges, and thick bushes.
Some paths lead to remorse locations with no clear marking and thus increases chances of more adventure and getting lost. Both treks include things like hot water springs, rivers, lakes, meadows, and forests along the way.
Altitude Difficulty: Annapurna Base Camp vs Circuit Trek
Anyone taking the Annapurna Circuit trek will need to keep hiking to a maximum elevation of 5,400 meters. At that height, the atmosphere becomes thin and that means there are lower amounts of oxygen in the atmosphere.
Because the body is used to high oxygen intake, this change can cause a condition commonly referred to as altitude sickness. The symptoms can set it at an elevation of just over 2,000 meters and include things like nausea, headache, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
The ABC only rises to an elevation of 4, 100 meters but will still pose the same dilemma since you will be going beyond the 2,000-meter mark. An individual’s level of fitness can play a role in how mild or severe this condition can be.
Those of average fitness will almost always experience mild symptoms while those with below average fitness may go through more severe symptoms. The key to beating altitude sickness is to get plenty of rest whenever you reach a significantly higher elevation.
This allows the body to adapt to the conditions and to continue functioning optimally.
Weather Challenges: Annapurna Base Camp vs Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit are located in the same region. You can therefore expect similar weather in both.
To enjoy your adventure, choose a season that is conducive to your level of trekking. As a beginner or novice, the spring season is the most ideal. Temperatures are not too hot or too cold and the skies are clear allowing you to enjoy unmatched visibility of the surrounding areas.
The pathways are quite dry and smooth making for easy walks or hikes. It is also during spring that you will get to witness flowers bloom and animals coming out to enjoy their habitats.
Autumn is another pleasant season to go on both treks. Winter is considered the hardest season for trekking because of the dropping temperature, cold nights, and snowy days.
The monsoon season or summer is not the most ideal but can still work as long as you are ready to cope with higher temperatures and potential rainfall periodically. Winter and summer are the off-peak seasons which is why both routes are likely to be less crowded and accommodation prices will be relatively cheaper.
Accommodation and Food: Annapurna Base Camp vs Circuit Trek
After a long day of trekking, you will need a comfortable place to spend the night. You can set up a tent at designated locations and prepare a meal for yourself before retiring to bed. However, this can be quite demanding since you have to carry your tent and food supplies daily.
A better option is to spend the night in one of the local lodges or teahouses. They are situated along both trekking routes. The good news is that they often have warm beds and ready food and drinks.
You can also enjoy warm water baths if you are willing to pay for them. There are a variety of dishes you can order including local and international cuisine.
The costs of teahouses and lodges will increase as you get to higher altitudes. That means accommodation on the AC route will eventually become more expensive at some point.
In Conclusion
Understanding the differences between the Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit is key to determining which of them is most suitable for you. While both are exceptional trekking destinations, the AC is a slightly harder option.
That said, it is important to note that good preparation is all that is required to overcome both challenges. Get in good mental and physical shape, plan ahead of time, and choose the ideal season to make the journey.
