01. How difficult is Annapurna base camp trek via Ghorepani ?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill is considered a moderate to difficult trek that combines two popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek, providing trekkers with the opportunity to experience the best of both.
The trek involves walking through diverse terrain, including forests, rivers, and many up and downhill climbs on mostly rugged trails in the mountainside. The highest altitude on the trek is around 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), which can cause altitude sickness in some individuals.
The length of the trek is around 10 to 14 days, depending on the itinerary, and requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, most people with average fitness levels can complete the trek.
02. What is the best time of a year to trek ABC trek via Ghorepani?
The best time of year to trek the Annapurna Base Camp trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. Spring (March to May) is a great time to trek as the weather is mild and the trek is filled with blooming rhododendron flowers. The temperature is comfortable, with warm days and cool nights. However, the trails can be crowded during this time.
Autumn (September to November) is another excellent time to trek as the weather is clear and dry, and the skies are generally free of clouds, offering stunning views of the mountains. The temperatures are also pleasant during the day and cool at night. The trails are less crowded than in the spring, providing a quieter and more peaceful trekking experience.
Himalayan Diamond Adventure team recommends April and May for the spring season and September to end of November for the autumn season to have a great trekking experience, as these months are also the blooming and harvesting seasons in the region. However, it's important to note that this trail can be dangerous with avalanches, so we strongly advise against trekking the ABC trail in February and March.
03. How does it look like accommodation and meal options on the way to Ghorepani Annapurna base camp trail?
Along the Ghorepani Annapurna Base Camp trail, there are various accommodation and meal options available for trekkers.
Accommodation options range from basic teahouses to more luxurious lodges, depending on your preferences and budget. Teahouses are simple lodgings that offer a bed, usually with shared bathroom facilities. These teahouses typically have communal dining areas where trekkers can enjoy meals and socialize with other hikers. The lodges provide private rooms with attached bathrooms, hot showers, and other amenities such as Wi-Fi, electricity, and charging outlets.
As for meals, most teahouses and lodges offer a wide range of dishes, including local Nepali cuisine and Western-style dishes such as pasta and pizza. The food is usually prepared fresh and is reasonably priced. It's essential to stay hydrated and well-fed during the trek, and the teahouses and lodges will provide hot drinks like tea and coffee, as well as snacks and other beverages.
04. What Happens If There Is an Emergency?
Our first priority is your safety and security during your stay in the mountains. If you experience an emergency, become ill, or lose your belongings while trekking or climbing in the mountains, it is important to inform your trekking guide or accompanying agency immediately. We will arrange for a helicopter to rescue you immediately and provide medical attention, or report the incident to the nearest
police station to recover your lost belongings. Rest assured that we will take appropriate steps to ensure your safety and well-being in a timely manner.
05. What Essential Documents Do I Need to Bring with Me on Tour?
❖ Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank visa pages
❖ Travel insurance policy document
❖ Photocopies of your passport's personal information page
❖ One or more recent passport-sized photos with a white background (1.5 inch x 1.5 inch)
❖ Completed and signed Nepal visa application form
❖ Proof of accommodation in Nepal (such as a hotel reservation or address)
❖ Valid return flight or travel ticket
❖ Proof of sufficient financial means, such as recent bank statements
❖ Mastercard, Visa, and some cash in USD
❖ Proof of payment of the Nepal visa fee
❖ To obtain a visa for Nepal, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the travel date and you must present either a completed COVID-19 vaccination certificate with QR code or a valid PCR test negative result taken within 72 hours prior to boarding
06. What Type of Insurance Should I Get?
It is essential for foreign travelers to secure insurance coverage while trekking or climbing in Nepal. Although trekking in Nepal is generally safe, but if you're going to mountaineering in Nepal then the travel insurance is compulsory. During trip it can be posed physical challenges and hazards, especially at high altitudes, where altitude sickness is prevalent among trekkers, especially foreign travelers who may not have acclimatized properly. Physical injuries can also occur on mountain trails, and in emergency situations, foreign trekkers may need to be rescued by helicopter and transported to hospitals in Kathmandu, which can be costly if the traveler does not have insurance coverage.
We strongly recommend purchasing a travel insurance package that covers high altitudes up to 4,500 meters, potential medical issues, natural disasters, personal accidents, emergency helicopter evacuation, loss or damage of personal belongings, and trip cancellations. The minimum recommended coverage amount is USD 100,000. There are many insurance companies that offer travel insurance services online.it plan look like
07. What Are Some Popular and Highly Rated Travel Insurance Companies?
We have received positive feedback from our previous travellers regarding the following travel insurance companies: [Company 1], [Company 2], [Company 3]
For Travelers from USA and CANADA........................
Online Global Health Insurance
Travelex
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Good Neighbor Insurance (International Health)
International Health
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MultiNational Underwriters
TIC Travel Insurance Coordinators Ltd
Travel Assist
TraveLite
For Travelers from England...................................
Specialty Group (UK) Limited
FirstAssist Services Limited
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For Travellers from EUROPE and SLOVENIA...........................
Assistance CORIS
For Travellers from AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND
Cover More Travel Insurance
CGU Insurance Limited
For Travellers from SOUTH AFRICA........................................
Travel insurance Consultants Pty. Ltd.
08. How Do You Stay Healthy During a Trek in Nepal?
To maintain good health during a trek in Nepal, it's important to maintain a balanced diet and proper hydration. Avoid consuming junk, stale, heavily spiced, and roasted foods, as well as meat, fish, eggs, and samosas. Instead, opt for fresh, locally prepared meals and ask your guide for recommendations. Drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water, and check the expiration date of bottled drinks like Coca Cola and Sprite. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or tea. Walk at a comfortable pace to prevent acute mountain sickness, and make sure to keep your body warm by wearing appropriate clothing.
09. How Far Will You Walk Every Day?
The distance you will walk each day on the Annapurna Base Camp trail via Ghorepani Poon Hill can vary depending on your itinerary and pace. Typically, you will walk between 3 to 9 hours per day, covering a distance of around 4 to 19 kilometers (3 to 10 miles). Some days, such as when ascending to Poon Hill, you may walk less distance but take more time due to the steep ascent. Other days, such as when approaching Annapurna Base Camp, you may cover more distance as the terrain becomes less steep. It's important to note that the trail includes many uphill and downhill climbs, which can be physically demanding, especially at higher altitudes.
10. Can You Trek Alone in Nepal?
It is possible to trek alone in Nepal, with the exception of some restricted areas where a guide is required for permit purposes. However, trekking alone in high mountain regions, particularly above 3,500 meters, is not recommended. Nepal is a hilly country with steep ups and downs, and there is a risk of rock falls, getting lost, and suffering from altitude sickness. It is highly advised to have a guide or porter for assistance in case of any emergency, or for help with rescue or hospitalization.
11. Is Nepal Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Nepal is a safe destination for solo female travelers, as the government takes measures to ensure their safety. However, trekking alone in high mountain regions, particularly above 3500 meters, is not recommended. The country's hilly terrain, with steep ups and downs, poses risks such as rock falls, getting lost, and altitude sickness. It is highly recommended to have a guide or porter for assistance in case of an emergency, or for help with rescue or hospitalization.
12. Why Should You Go Trekking in Nepal?
You should visit Nepal at least once in your life to witness its diversity and vibrant festivals. As the birthplace of Buddha and home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, Nepal offers a chance to explore its diverse ethnic groups, cultures, religions, and traditions. With eight of the world's tallest 8,000-meter peaks and popular treks like the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, Nepal is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
13. Will You Have to Carry Your Own Stuff?
When trekking alone, you'll need to carry your own gear. Hiring a porter will allow them to carry heavy luggage, while you carry the rest. It's recommended to pack light to avoid excessive weight and minimize the risk of acute mountain sickness, allowing for a more enjoyable trek.
14. Can You Store Extra Baggage or A Suitcase at The Hotel? Is There Any Cost?
Most of the hotels will not charge any extra cost for storing extra baggage or suitcase at the hotel. It is a good idea to do this if you will return back to the same route. Make sure that you don’t leave any jewelry, electronics or items of value in the baggage.
15. Is There Any Weight Limit for Domestic Flights?
For domestic flights in Nepal, the free baggage weight limit is usually 10-25 kgs with an additional luggage extra charge you per kg Nepalese rupees 100 to 125. The free cabin/handbag limit is around 5 kgs.
16. How Long Can I Stay in Nepal with a Tourist Visa?
A Nepal Tourist visa can be issued for 15, 30, or 90 days with the fees changing depending on the number of days you will remain in the country.
17. How Can I Extend a Nepal Visa?
You can extend your Nepal Visa at the headquarters of the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The office in Kathmandu is the only office of the Immigration Department which extends both tourist and non-tourist visas. The Immigration Office in Pokhara is only authorized to extend tourist visas.
You have to apply for an extension of your Nepal visa before it expires. If you apply afterward, you will have overstayed your visa, and you can be fined or even detained or arrested. You can extend a tourist visa for 15 days for a fee of USD 45. You have to pay an additional USD 3 for every day after that.