Lovenish Kalra
Lovenish rarely uses any social media so if you wish to chat with him about travel, riding and music etc. then you may reach out to him at lovenish.kalra@adventurenation.com
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Mountaineering has always been a significant aspect of Nepal’s tourism industry. This small nation in the Himalayas has welcomed numerous trekkers from around the world in recent decades. Within the country, there are eight out of the fourteen Eight-Thousanders Mountains, and successfully reaching their summits requires a certain skill level and several years of mountaineering experience. However, for individuals who are not trained mountaineers but still wish to witness these magnificent peaks, there are base camp treks available. While all base camp treks provide a unique trekking experience, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek and the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek are the two most popular options.
Annapurna is widely regarded as one of the most challenging peaks to conquer worldwide, and embarking on a journey to its base camp is no easy task either. The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) sits at an elevation of 13,550ft and forms part of the Annapurna Sanctuary, nestled within the Himalayan Annapurna Range. This sanctuary is home to a diverse population with varying religious beliefs, including Buddhism and Hinduism. In the lower regions, you will also encounter small communities of Brahmin and Chhetri people engaged in farming activities. The trek begins at Nayapul, situated 40km northeast of Pokhara, and can be undertaken for most of the year.
Standard Routing: Kathmandu-Pokhara-Nayapul-Ghandruk-Sinuwa-Deurali-ABC-Bamboo-Jhinu-Nayapul-Pokhara-Kathmandu
Must Read: Annapurna Base Camp Trek – A Backpacker’s Guide
Mount Everest, named after Sir George Everest, is the highest mountain on the planet and attracts hundreds of thousands of people from across the globe every year. Climbing on top of the world is obviously something only a handful of people manage to achieve but even trekking to its base camp is considered an accomplishment in itself. The southern base camp of Everest is located at an altitude of 17,598ft and is a part of the Sagarmatha National Park located in northeast Nepal. The Khumbu (Everest) region is home to the extra ordinary Sherpa people known for their endurance. The trek commences from the north-eastern town of Lukla and can be reached by taking an adventurous forty minute flight from Kathmandu.
Standard Routing: Kathmandu-Lukla-Phakding-Namche Bazaar-Tengboche-Dingboche-Lobuche-Gorak Shep-EBC-Gorak Shep- Kala Patthar-Panboche-Namche-Lukla-Kathmandu
Must Read: Lifesaver Tips: Planning Your Everest Base Camp(EBC) Trek
Which option should be selected: ABC or EBC?
As cliché as it may sound, these two treks should not be compared together. As a matter of fact, no two treks should be compared with each other. Still, a comparison, basis various important factors, is done below that might help someone who is contemplating to choose one of these two.
Accessibility and Season
| ABC | EBC |
|---|---|
| People travelling from outside of Nepal may take a connecting flight to Pokhara and then drive to Nayapul. One also has an option of driving from Kathmandu to Pokhara which generally takes around seven hours. Although the trek is doable throughout the year, the summers/monsoons are considered not ideal as the region receives a lot of rainfall and the trail becomes dangerous. Someone looking for a considerably challenging experience should travel during the winters. | Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is the generally the point of origin from people coming from abroad. From Kathmandu, an early morning flight is to be taken to reach Lukla from where the trekking starts. There are primarily two season to do the trek: March to May and Sep to Nov. Although there are some trekkers who embark on this journey during the winters (Dec to Feb) as well, but they have to be prepared for some delays as sometimes a few high passes are closed due to heavy snow and bad weather. |
Acclimatization
| ABC | EBC |
|---|---|
| Acclimatization is crucial when trekking to high altitude areas. This trek has a unique trail that includes both uphill and downhill sections in the beginning, making it easier for trekkers to adjust. The daily altitude gain is around 1500ft, which is manageable and eliminates the need for a rest or acclimatization day. As a result, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is not a significant concern on this trek. | Acclimatizing in the Everest region is the most challenging part of the trek due to a continuous increase in altitude. The Kathmandu-Lukla flight alone involves gaining approximately 4500ft in just forty minutes. Throughout the trek, there is a significant daily gain in altitude. To prevent Acute Mountain Sickness, it is necessary to allocate a few days for rest and acclimatization. Typically, these days are spent in the well-known villages of Namche Bazaar (11,290ft) and Dingboche (14,300ft). |
Terrain and Infrastructure
| ABC | EBC |
|---|---|
| Situated in the lower parts of the Himalayas, this trek presents stunning scenery and breathtaking views of different peaks. At first, you will hike alongside the Burungdi River and Modi River before entering the thick Rhododendron trail and Bamboo forests. The path includes a number of steep staircases, but they lead to suspension bridges that make the exertion worthwhile. It is important to note that the trail from Deurali to the base camp is susceptible to avalanches, so crossing the Modi River may take up some time.
The travel facilities on the journey are quite satisfactory, with plenty of options for accommodation and food readily accessible. If there is a medical emergency, there is a helicopter evacuation service available, so it is important to have appropriate adventure insurance for financial security. |
The terrain and landscape on this trek are quite diverse. At first, you will ascend alongside the Dudh Koshi River from Lukla to Phakding/Namche. Reaching Namche involves some steep climbs and there are also a few exciting suspension bridges to cross. Once past Namche, you will venture into the Rhododendron trail where you may encounter Himalayan wildlife such as Musk deer and the Himalayan Thar. As you ascend further into the higher region of Everest, the environment becomes colder and drier, with less greenery visible after passing Tengboche. Although the trail is relatively easy to walk on, you will find yourself constantly ascending.
Since it is a well-liked trek, the travel facilities are quite satisfactory. There are numerous choices for accommodation and food that can be easily found. In the event of a medical emergency, there is an option for helicopter evacuation, so it is advisable to obtain appropriate adventure insurance for financial security. |
Level of Difficulty
| ABC | EBC |
|---|---|
| ABC is classified as a moderate trek, characterized by a trail that is not dangerous and an average of six to seven hours of trekking per day. The daily increase in altitude is not significant, allowing for easier acclimatization. This trek is suitable for both novice trekkers and those who have previously completed a few easy to moderate treks in the Himalayas. It is recommended for first-time trekkers to prepare for a minimum of two months and to avoid traveling during the winter season for added comfort. | The EBC trek is classified as moderate to difficult. It does not involve any technical skills, but there are multiple steep climbs and staircases along the trail. The daily altitude gain and low oxygen levels at high altitudes add to the challenge. It is recommended to have prior experience with at least two moderate Himalayan treks before attempting EBC, but there are also many first-time trekkers who have successfully completed it. Adequate preparation time of three months is necessary. |
Highlights
| Basis | ABC | EBC |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Altitude | 4,130mt / 13,550ft | 5,643mt / 18,513ft |
| Origin | KTM/Pokhara | Kathmandu |
| Starting Point | Nayapul | Lukla |
| Grade | Moderate | Moderate to Difficult |
| Open Season | Mar-May / Sep-Nov | Mar-May / Sep-Nov |
| Duration ex KTM | 10N/11D | 13N/14D |
| On Trek Acco. | Tea houses | Tea houses |
| Food Availability on the trek | Available in tea houses | Available in tea houses |
| Permit required | Yes (ACAP & TIMS) | Yes (SCAP & TIMS) |
| Major Summits visible on the trek | Annapurna South (7279mt), Fang Annapurna I (8091mt) Ganagapurna (7485mt) Annapurna III (7855mt) | Mt Everest (8848mt) Mt Lhotse (8516mt) Mt Makalu (8485mt) Cho-Oyu (8,201mt) |
Each path you take will lead you to a different mountain pass, a separate river crossing, a distinct village, a contrasting sunset spot, and a personal range of emotions. ABC provides lush green trails and soothing hot springs, while EBC offers the thrilling Lukla flight and ancient monasteries. ABC showcases diverse cultures to explore and a chance to witness one of the most challenging peaks to conquer, while EBC allows you to connect with the incredible Sherpas and marvel at the world’s highest summit.
If one desires, it is best to have both of these incredible experiences. However, if a choice must be made, it ultimately boils down to the fundamental factors. If you have approximately ten days available and are slightly limited financially, opt for ABC. On the other hand, if you can allocate a couple of weeks and have the means to spend a bit more, EBC is the preferable option.
