Nepal vision | 15/05/2025
Back in 2024, after thoroughly researching the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek and finally locking in the details, I found myself standing at the starting point of one of Nepal's most iconic trails.
Like many others, ABC had long been on my bucket list. It was not just for the promise of snow-capped peaks and rhododendron forests but also the challenge and sense of perspective such a trek can bring.
Despite my research and my imagination of what my day would look like, I was wrong, as the walk in the lap of the Himalayas alongside the natural and cultural gems of Annapurna was magical.
But today I am here to share more of the things I really wish I’d known before starting the trek—the kind of details that rarely show up in glossy travel write-ups but can make or break your experience out on the trail.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview at a Glance
Annapurna Base Camp is located in the heart of the Annapurna region, passing by appealing views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. It will satisfy your heartfelt curiosity about the flapping chorten, spinning prayer wheel, and scattered small monasteries.
My journey begins in early October, as it is considered to be the best time to explore the alluring beauty of the trek. Alongside the great weather, comfortable temperature, and cultural highlights of the region, my 10-day journey includes nearly 61 miles of trail, 20,000 feet of elevation gain, and close to 30,000 relentless stone stairs. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is anything but a walk in the park.
The initial days started in the valley of Pokhara, where I immersed myself in the alluring beauty of the surrounding Machhapuchhre. Now begins your official trek as you gain elevation with the first clear look of the majestic Annapurna South and the Himchuli range.
In the upcoming days, you mark your way to the Deurali and then MBC (Machapuchare Base Camp). As you climb, Annapurna I and Annapurna South tower over you.
I was fortunate to encounter rare endangered species in the Annapurna Conservation Area, such as the elusive Himalayan tahr and the snow leopard.
The finale comes when you reach the Base Camp, surrounded by the Annapurna II, III, IV, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre, and feel the sense of accomplishment of those physical challenges encountered throughout the trek.
But I did something different. I decided to skip the Poon Hill excursion, which is often added to the ABC trek, especially for sunrise views. While I was disappointed to miss the chance to see the iconic sunrise over the mountains, my body was starting to feel the strain from the stairs, and I needed to pace myself.
The Poon Hill detour would have added about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and an additional 1200 feet (365 meters) of elevation to Day 3.
Given my exhaustion after Day 2’s intense climb, I chose to rest and adjust my pace. Still, if you’re feeling good, it’s a fantastic addition for some unforgettable sunrise views of Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, and the surrounding peaks.
The Stairs Are No Joke
One of the biggest physical challenges of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is the crazy number of stairs. Every single day, I climbed thousands of stone steps, uphill, downhill, and everything in between. At times, it felt like I was stuck on an endless staircase winding through the mountains.
I read several resources and blogs beforehand, but very few mentioned the stairs or gave them the attention they truly deserve.
Believe me, they’re one of the most complex parts of the whole trek. Your legs will burn, and your knees will definitely feel it. By Day 3, I was already reaching for ibuprofen just to keep going. So if you have knee problems or joint issues, this is something you really need to think about in advance.
The constant stepping up and down is way more demanding than walking on flat ground or gentle trails. But if you go in mentally prepared and pace yourself, it’s totally doable.
Physical Fitness Training
My journey would have been even more challenging without my guide, Pushkar Basnet, who encouraged me to start training a month before the trek began.
For my physical preparation, I started by simply walking more and taking the stairs whenever I could. I also consulted with my trainer, who helped me create a routine that combined cardio, strength training, and flexibility workouts. For that month, I could really feel the difference in my stamina and strength.
I also joined a local rock climbing arcade, which was a fun way to build both physical and mental endurance. At the gym, I used the stair-climbing machine, which was especially helpful—it felt just like the long uphill stretches of the trek. Thanks to all of this, I was able to handle the physical challenges much better than I expected.
Mental Strength Matters More Than Physical Fitness
Before I started the Annapurna Base Camp trek, I had to be really athletic to make it through. But after doing it, I realized something surprising: being mentally strong was more important than being in top physical shape.
Don’t get me wrong—being active helps. But what really got me through the hardest days wasn’t big muscles or a running habit. It was stubbornness. I just kept telling myself, “One step at a time. Keep going.” That mindset helped me more than anything else.
There were moments when I was sore, tired, and out of breath—but instead of pushing too hard, I learned to pace myself. Taking it slow, resting when needed, and staying positive helped me build endurance as the days went on. You don’t need to rush or prove anything. The goal is to finish strong, not fast.
So if you’re someone who hasn’t trained like an athlete but really wants to do this trek, you absolutely can. As long as you're healthy, prepared, and mentally committed, your determination can carry you far, even through thousands of stairs and long days of walking.
What I Would Do Differently
- Pace myself better from the start.
I would avoid pushing too hard on the first few days and take more breaks to save energy for the longer climbs ahead.
- Do more prep for knees and joints.
To handle the stairs better, I’d add more joint-friendly exercises like squats, lunges, and stair training before the trek.
- Bring better gear for support.
A good pair of trekking poles and well-fitted knee support would have made a big difference on the steep descents.
- Stick to my own pace and listen to my body.
Skipping the Poon Hill side trip was a smart move for me. Don’t be afraid to rest when your body needs it.
- Train smarter, not harder.
I learned that training doesn’t mean exhausting yourself—it means consistently preparing, being balanced, and being kind to your body.
Final Thoughts: Why It Was Still Worth It
The final wordings of my whole journey is that despite those sore legs, steep stairs, and long days, the moment of the Annapurna Base Camp trek was all worth it. The alluring mountain views, the friendship built along the trail, and the observation of those cultural and natural gems were all magical.
If you want a trusted team to guide you, I highly recommend Nepal Vision Treks. Their care, experience, and support made my journey smoother and more meaningful. They truly know how to make the trek not just a hike but a life-changing adventure.
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