Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek are the most sought-after treks of the Annapurna region of Nepal. Remember, these two treks are also the most challenging and strenuous treks the Annapurna region offers.
One could debate which is better based on several factors, such as the duration of the trek, cost, and difficulty. You may still wonder which one fits the best for your choice. Let us help you with that decision by navigating through them all.
Difficulty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek’s highest altitude is at the base camp at 4130 m. The highest altitude of the Annapurna Circuit trek lies at 5416 m in the Thorang La pass. So, based on the altitude, the Annapurna Base Camp trek has a lesser probability of altitude sickness than the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Likewise, The Circuit trek comprises long distances with high altitudes. On the other hand, the Base Camp trek has a shorter distance per day with moderate altitude. Adding to the difficulties, the Annapurna Circuit trek passes through more rugged terrain than Base Camp. Moreover, the Annapurna Base Camp’s trail has fewer off-the-beaten paths.
Therefore, if you are a beginner with little to no trekking experience, go for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. And if you have done a few treks before. And want something more adventurous, then the Annapurna Circuit trek is the one for you.
Note: people who have pulmonary health issues are suggested to stay away from Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Duration of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Duration of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
The duration of both the Circuit trek and the Base camp trek differ. It mainly depends on the route and the days spent acclimatizing. However, the ideal days needed for the Annapurna Circuit trek is about 18 days to 20 days.
Similarly, the ideal days needed for the Annapurna Base Camp trek are 10 days. Keep in mind that it can fluctuate with one or two days based on how much you walk per day.
In conclusion, if you have more than 2 weeks, then go for the Annapurna Circuit trek. But in case you have less time, then trek to the Annapurna Base Camp.
Cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs the Cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
As mentioned above, the duration of the Annapurna Circuit trek is longer. So, you need to spend more money on accommodation and food as you are out on the trail more than the Base camp trek.
Also, the circuit trek passes through more remote areas. And the accommodation facilities are difficult to access as the place gets more remote. So, even per day, expenditure on the circuit trek is more than the base camp trek.
Therefore, The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is more feasible for trekkers with a limited budget.
Accessibility of The Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Accessibility of The Annapurna Circuit Trek
A few factors make The Annapurna Base Camp trek more accessible than the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
First and foremost, the Base Camp trek is easier in comparison. Secondly, it has a larger number of accommodation facilities available. Thirdly, the physical and mental demands for the Circuit trek are more.
Last but not least, the distance between the Annapurna Circuit trek’s final destination from Pokhara is farther than Annapurna Base Camp.
Therefore, The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is more easily accessible than The Annapurna Circuit Trek.
