Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek - Which Trek You Should Go For?

Home to some of the highest summits in the planet, Nepal is undeniably the finest mountaineering destination on the globe, since long, people all over the world have been approaching here to experience sheer adventure. The fame of hiking in the nation has opened several new routes for adventurous seekers.

Among several treks, Annapurna is another distinguished peak among mountaineers. If you ask any experienced trekker which one is better Annapurna base camp trek or Annapurna Circuit trek he will be confused for sure – because both of them has their own different experience.

The route of Annapurna circuit trek brings varying sights, from about 100 waterfalls to pine forests. This lush landscape changes to arid slopes with shrubs, scattered here and there, just as you reach Manang. Now, Manang is an interesting place. From Manang, the terrain becomes a bit rough as you are required to make a somewhat steep ascent across grasslands and past juniper trees.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek route is quite similar if you consider the varying terrain and changing views. Its first leg, which includes a drive, also takes you past several waterfalls, and the initial phase of the trek is uphill through forests. The hiking trip also involves a sharp ascent to Poon Hill, about 10530 feet above sea level. Some of the longest grass in the Himalayas, I have seen. It is almost like the African savannah at the top.

The ABC Trek has a maximum elevation of around 13780 feet, whereas the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you to over 17770 feet. So, you see that there is a difference of almost 4000 feet in the two hikes, which is quite a lot. You may be able to see some greenery at 13780 feet, but at 17770 feet, it is only barren lands, snowy cliffs and vast glaciers. If you don’t consider yourself fit enough for harsh weather conditions, then choose the ABC trek, whereas if you are seeking a challenge and are fit enough to counter the effects of altitude sickness, then you must go for the ACT.

So, here is the comparison I made between the Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks. Even after all this deliberation, I am not able to make my mind on which way to go. So, I think it is better to go on both as both of them are amazing in their own specific way. In every way Annapurna trekking is adventurous and beautiful.