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Annapurna Circuit Trek Vs Everest Base Camp

The debate of Annapurna Circuit trek vs Everest Base Camp is like picking between two legendary adventures. These treks are two of the most iconic Himalayan adventures that offer jaw-dropping views of some of the tallest mountains in the world. Apart from the charming hospitality of the mountains and the thrill of reaching some of the most iconic base camps, each trek has its own unique vibe.

If you research the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will discover that this 150-kilometre-long trail can take you anywhere between 12 and 20 days to complete. It's a moderately difficult trek, which takes you to a maximum height of 17,769 feet at Thorung La Pass. Your days will end in cosy tea houses, where you can soak in views of the Annapurna massif and fishtail peaks.
 
On the other side, Everest Base Camp is like the ultimate Himalayan dream that ends with you reaching the base of the world's tallest mountain. The 130-kilometre-long trek can take you 12 to 14 days, which makes it a relatively more challenging experience. On your way, you will reach max heights of 17,598 feet at the base camp and even go to a height of 18,192 feet at Kala Patthar.

In Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp, one trek gives you lush landscapes and gentle altitude gain. The other is a snow-covered, higher-altitude epic with Everest’s shadow looming large. Whatever you choose, you will be signing up for a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure that many want but few get to experience.
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01

Accessibility

Annapurna Circuit Trek
You can start the Annapurna Circuit trek from Besisahar, or Jagat, a more remote point but with direct access to the trail. Both points are easily reachable by road from Pokhara or Kathmandu, and the trail is so well-connected that you won't need a flight. Since it passes through local villages like Muktinath and Tatopani, the trek is easy to access and great if you are a first-timer.

Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, as there are no direct roads. From there, this remote trail winds through the Khumbu region, where you will cross the world’s highest Khumbu Glacier and the intriguing Khumbu Icefall. These places make this a popular trail to Everest if you are a well-experienced trekker.
02

Trip Duration

Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit trek can take anywhere between 12 to 20 days to complete, and it may depend on the route taken and your pace. The main circuit is around 150 kilometres long, but the total distance can increase depending on the route you choose. However, this trek is more flexible as you can end it in different places like Jomsom and Muktinath. You are also free to take a detour to Ghorepani instead of wrapping up the trek at Jomsom or Nayapul.

Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek can take you around 12 to 14 days, which includes acclimatisation days and a round-trip journey from Lukla to the base camp. Since the trek covers about 130 kilometres in total, it's technically shorter than the Annapurna Circuit. But the EBC trail has steeper climbs and higher-altitude hiking than the ABC trek, so you will need to go slow to adjust to the height better.
03

Overall Difficulty And Safety

Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit trek ranks as a moderately difficult trail, so you will need good fitness levels to conquer this one. The trail has gradual ascents along with plenty of teahouse stops and acclimatisation points to make you comfortable. The biggest challenge you will face here is while crossing Thorong La Pass at 17,769 feet, as you will gain altitude really quickly and might get AMS. It's safe here, but weather and altitude sickness can pull you back if you don't plan and acclimatise the right way.

Everest Base Camp Trek
When it comes to the debate of Everest Base Camp trek vs Annapurna Circuit, the first one is slightly more challenging due to higher altitudes and steeper climbs. Since it takes you to a height of 18,192 feet at Kala Patthar, you will need good physical fitness and careful altitude management for this trek. Although it’s well-supported with guides, lodges, and marked trails, altitude sickness is common, so maintaining a comfortable pace and acclimatising properly is super important.
04

The Cost Of The Treks

Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit trek is a more budget-friendly experience. On average, it can cost you anywhere between INR 24,000 to INR 35,000 per person, covering permits, guides, accommodation, and meals. Since the region has more teahouses and better road access, you get to save on transportation and logistics here.

Everest Base Camp Trek
When you compare Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp, the EBC trek is generally more expensive, ranging from INR 47,000 to INR 65,000 per person. This includes flights to Lukla, permits, trek guides, food, and accommodation. Since everything is flown into the Sagarmatha National Park region, prices tend to be higher.
05

Which Trek Is More Beautiful?

Annapurna Circuit Trek
If you are comparing Everest Base Camp trek vs Annapurna Circuit in terms of scenic beauty, the second one surely has more diverse landscapes and an ever-changing terrain. You will see lush rice fields, deep gorges, high-altitude cold deserts, and snow-covered peaks around the Annapurna range. During the trek, you will also pass remote villages like Tatopani and even the world’s deepest gorge at Kali Gandaki, which will make every day feel unique.

Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp trek offers jaw-dropping mountain views at almost every step of the journey. You will get up-close views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, walk through Sherpa villages, and cross suspension bridges over deep valleys. The Khumbu Glacier, Khumbu Icefall, and Sagarmatha National Park are major highlights of this trek that goes from rocky forested paths to snow-covered terrains higher up.
06

Which Trek To Choose To Be More Comfortable?

Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit offers more variety in accommodation, from simple teahouses to comfortable lodges. Since the route is less crowded, you will be able to find many peaceful stops and better chances to rest. The trail also has gradual climbs, which make it easier on your body and let you enjoy a more relaxed and comfortable trekking experience overall.

Everest Base Camp Trek
Since Everest Base Camp trek gets crowded, especially during peak seasons, it can sometimes mean busier teahouses and less privacy for you. However, you will find many lodges on this route with cosy rooms, heating, hot showers, and good food. The trail is more straightforward but steeper in parts, so while the facilities are decent, the altitude gain might challenge your comfort level.
07

Which Trek Is Less Crowded?

Annapurna Circuit Trek
When you compare the crowd level of Annapurna Circuit trek vs Everest Base Camp trek, you will find ABC to have less footfall. This is because it has a longer route, and the multiple entry points spread out the trekkers, giving you more quiet moments on the trail. As you go ahead, you will often find peaceful villages and landscapes without the heavy tourist traffic, which lets you enjoy the beauty in peace.

Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp is one of the most popular treks in the world, so the fact that it gets very crowded is not surprising. The trail often stays busy, something you will witness more during peak seasons like spring and autumn. If you prefer solitude, this might be less ideal, but the strength and energy of fellow adventurers may add a unique charm to your experience.
08

Everest Base Camp Or Annapurna Circuit: The Summary

Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit is where you can go if you want a less crowded trek with stunning and diverse landscapes, traditional Nepalese villages, and a gradual ascent. It’s a great choice when you want a longer adventure with great Himalayan views and friendly locals. Although challenging, it is a rewarding choice if you want comfort and wish to witness a variety of scenery on your Himalayan journey.

Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp is the ultimate bucket-list trek, especially because you get to enjoy the iconic views of the world’s highest peak. It’s shorter than the Annapurna Circuit, but can be more crowded and physically demanding due to the steep terrain and quicker altitude gain. If you want to experience the thrill of standing close to Everest and enjoy a trek that tests your endurance, this is the perfect one for you.

People Also Ask About Nepal

  1. Which trek is harder, Annapurna Base Camp trek or Everest Base Camp trek?

    The Everest Base Camp trek is harder than the Annapurna Base Camp trek. When you compare the Annapurna Circuit trek vs Everest Base Camp, EBC has a higher altitude and steeper climbs, which make it more physically demanding for you. On the other hand, the ABC trek is longer but has more gradual ascents, so you will be able to tackle it with good fitness levels.
  2. How many days does the Annapurna Base Camp trek take compared to the Everest Base Camp trek?

    The Annapurna Circuit trek (150 kilometres) will take you around 14 to 20 days, and this number can change based on how you set your pace and route. On the other hand, the trek to Everest Base Camp (130 kilometres) takes about 12 to 14 days. Since the ABC trek is longer, if you complete the entire trail, it might take you 6 to 8 days more than the EBC trek.
  3. Which trek offers better mountain views, Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp?

    In the Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp debate, both circuits offer breathtaking mountain views. The ABC trek has one eight-thousander peak while the EBC trek has four. The Annapurna Circuit has the Annapurna Massif, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Gandharvachuli peaks in a 360-degree view. On the other hand, you can see close-up views of Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche, and Mt Everest in the EBC trek.
  4. What is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek vs the Everest Base Camp trek?

    The best time for you to try either of Annapurna and Everest Base Camp treks is in the spring months of March to May or autumn months of September to November. These months clear skies, mild weather, and stable conditions, which are perfect for trekking. Although this is the peak season so crowds are more, the clear views and scenic beauty will make it worth the experience.
  5. Which trek is more suitable for beginners, Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp?

    The Annapurna Circuit trek is more suitable for beginners due to its gradual climbs and better chances of acclimatisation. To deal with the Everest Base Camp trek, you will need some experience and high fitness levels as it is more challenging because of the higher altitude and steeper trails.
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03 May 2017
Excellent
Having trekked in the Sahayadris for over 4-5 years now and after doing two himalayan treks in the previous season, I wanted to do a more challenging trek. So finally I decided to climb the base camp of the highest mountain in the world. The majestic mountain range had been in my bucket list for many years. Now seemed to be the right time, and so I set off in search of the "Everest". I always thought how difficult could it be to climb mountains, after all, it just takes putting one step ahead of the other. I was wrong, it indeed turned out to be more difficult than I imagined. This is due to the rarefied air in the atmosphere, that makes breathing difficult. Even a nominal gradient while ascending seems to be a task. But thankfully I wasn't hit by any symptoms of AMS ( Acute Mountain Sickness ) which makes the mountaineer's job tremendously difficult at high altitudes. On the trek, it was the promise of some awesome photos, that helped me carry through many steep climbs. But, the sheer beauty of the barren mountains with clear blue sky in the backdrop and the ferocious Dudh Koshi River inspired me not to give up but to keep climbing. During the climb of Kala Patthar, I learnt the importance of balance and concentration, even when you are exhausted beyond limit. On the Kala Patthar summit day, I set out at 4 in the morning, climbing through the mountain with a 50-70 degree gradient; sub zero temperatures, chilly winds and freezing weather. It was total dark and the only thing I could see through my head torch was the next step. From this moment till 6 am in the morning, I only thought about the awesome feeling of summiting and achieving my goal. As the air was thin, I concentrated on breathing properly and adequately and took synchronized baby steps. And, finally at 6:30 am I reached the Summit (5643m)! The view of the sunrise on Everest was just spectacular and the feeling of having summited, exhilarating!! The Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar expedition made me realize that to achieve a goal, it is important to believe in your own efforts and strength (Both Physical and Mental).But more than that, we should be grateful towards the ecosystem around and factors beyond our control which play an equally important role in our journey to achieve anything.
30 July 2018
Excellent
Trekking the adorable Himalayas is always a must on the “to do” list of an avid trekker. After trekking over the Sahyadris and taking a few treks in Karnataka I decided to place my foot on the Himalayan Mountain Ranges. Going through the various options from Chadar, Sandakphu, Roopkund, Hampta Pass, etc. I finally narrowed down to the Everest Base Camp. The very thought of following the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay thrilled me to the core. The sight of having a close encounter with the highest point on earth just pushed further my excitement levels. After a series of e-searches and consulting with other fellow trekkers, I finally made up my mind to enroll for the 14 day EBC Trek with Thrillophilia. The EBC Trek was by far my best trek so far. Though the thin air made the ascent difficult and more challenging, I am glad that I was able to complete the trek. The amazing view of snow clad mountains, the vast greenery and above all the company of similar fun-loving folks made the trek a memorable one. Kudos to the team at Thrillophilia. The trek was not only organized well but the pricing was also reasonable. All the questions, concerns, doubts and apprehensions I that had were properly attended by the travel consultant at Thrillophilia, Miss Madhuri Mathur despite some of them being repetitive. The representatives Mr. Subid Sahoo and Mr. Nitish Singh as well as the trek Guide Mr. Bijay along with his assistants were all friendly and helpful. I will definitely suggest my pals to go for this trek. I wish to do it again sometime soon. Cheers, Vignesh
20 October 2014
Rameshwar Bharadwaj Everest Base Camp Trek
Excellent
A good trek at a very reasonable price is what I need to say about this trek first of all. I had a comfortable and good stay at the base camp. The camping was a great fun and I enjoyed to the core. Heard that this was the most challenging trek of Nepal and so I decided to try this out. This was obviously challenging but I could make it out till the end. it was just out of the world experience
23 September 2015
Sucheta Namboothiri Everest Base Camp Trek
Excellent
The mountains were brilliant and nice, the clear sky after the summer monsoon had dusted away the dust and we hence got a chance to have a clear view of the whole peak and the adjacent places. The days we spent at the camp base was cooler even though it could have been more long.
15 April 2019
Manjunath Manjunath Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Excellent
The trekking was very good. Also as we had a small group all the arrangements were good. As we did not expected more snow it was fun walking in snow for full day to reach the ABC. The view was spectacular at the base camp and got quiet good photos. Guide/Porter was very co-operating and helped us a lot while walking in the snow (as we did not had proper shoes to trek in snow :) )
Excellent
I booked this tour as my first solo trip and I was amazed by its execution. We covered many old temples and monuments in a perfect span of time. The trip truly was amazing from the places to the people and the team were all very friendly. The food was delicious and pure. Will definitely plan our next trip with you.
Excellent
I booked this trip from India to Nepal with my family. Nepal has best surroundings with cool environment and the highest mountain peaks. Everything mentioned was good and taken care of, the best thing was the time management, the staff and driver were friendly and gave a feel f home. It was an amazing trip which we visited and truly worth it. Would recommend anyone visiting, would try and visit with Thrillophilia.
Excellent
We booked this tour after going thoroughly to the plan and it was interesting, so we finally decided to pick it and it. The places are filled with ancient temples and cool surroundings. All the transportation mentioned were managed by the team and it was on time, with a well-behaved driver. It was wonderful and absolutely recommended.
Excellent
We booked this tour with our friends from Chennai. The great mountains range in Nepal make the whole trip more beautiful and scenic. Everything for the trip was well planned and specially the food served was mouth watering. Totally recommendable.
Excellent
Nepal has it all being it spirituality, nature, adventure and history! It was fun visiting the summits for the sunrise early morning. The hotels were really comfortable which drained out all the tiredness of the day and freshens us every next morning. It was a fun a trip looking froward for more.

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