Everest Base Camp Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Which is Better?

Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Trek are both the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Trekkers all around the world are more likely to have both of the trekking routes, as they offer absolutely the most amazing Himalayan views you can have in Nepal.

But, Everest Base Camp Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which is better? In this blog, we will discuss the differences in difficulty, terrain, scenery, altitude, cost and logistics, crowds, etc. on both of the trekking routes.

If you are planning to trek in Nepal and have some experience trekking at higher altitudes, then you can try both treks to enjoy the best experience in Nepal.

Everest Base Camp Trek: An Overview

Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal that takes you to the closest view of Mt. Everest, which is known as the tallest mountain peak in the world.

The trek usually starts from Kathmandu, but you can take the alternative route starting from Jiri. The 45-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu takes you to Lukla village, which is a popular starting point for trekking in the Khumbu region.

The permits required for this trek are the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, the Sagarmatha National Park permit, and the Khumbu Rural Municipality Entry Permits.

On this trek, you pass through several beautiful villages, including Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Kala Patthar, etc. The Everest Base Camp Trek is challenging yet exciting, as it offers you an insight into the natural and cultural richness of the Himalayan region.

Considering the itinerary and the route you choose, this trek can be completed in 13–17 days.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: An Overview

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is yet another popular trekking route in Nepal that is widely popular for the stunning Himalayan views, lush forest and traditional villages.

The trek usually starts in Pokhara, one of the most beautiful cities and the major tourist hub of Nepal. You can consider starting the trek from Kathmandu too.

It is a challenging trek and usually takes 7–13 days to complete, considering the itinerary and route you choose. It is fit for both beginners and those who have trekked earlier at higher altitudes, but it requires moderate fitness as this trek involves trekking at higher altitudes.

The route is easier and more comfortable but it can be challenging as you reach higher altitudes. The trek starts with the drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. From Nayapul, the trek starts and you cross several villages, suspension bridges, stoned roads, waterfalls, and waterstreams.

This trek is popular in the spring season as the route is completely filled with the rhododendron forest, offering vibrant color to the forest.

Also, as it is fit for beginners, are you unsure about what to do during the trek? Here are some of the best tips for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for beginners that you can consider while trekking.

Which is more difficult? Everest Base Camp Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are both difficult, as this trek involves trekking at higher altitudes. But the Everest Base Camp Trek is more difficult as you have to trek at a higher altitude and the difficulties lie within the days of the trek and the routes to follow.

The Everest Base Camp Trek is physically demanding, as you have to trek to higher altitudes and cover longer distances. Although the trail is well-maintained, there are some steep sections and high-altitude passes that can be challenging.

On the other hand, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is relatively easier than the EBC Trek if it has to be compared with the trails. In addition to the well-maintained trail, there are fewer steep sections and the trail mostly passes through village areas, so it is not that difficult to hike on.

The highest point during the EBC trek is Kala Patthar, which is at an elevation of 5,545 meters. As you are required to hike to a higher altitude of more than 5,000 meters, altitude sickness is a major concern. If you do not properly acclimate before traveling to a higher altitude, you run the risk of contracting mountain sickness.

Read here about acute mountain sickness.

While the maximum elevation you can cover in the ABC trek is only 4,130 meters, which is way less than the EBC trek, there are still chances of altitude sickness.

Also, the distance you have to cover during the trek can cause difficulties as you have to walk for 6-7 hours a day at a normal pace. Remember, the shorter the days of the itinerary, the more difficult the trek is. So, it is important to plan wisely, considering the number of hours you can walk in a day.

The Everest Base Camp Trek usually takes 13–17 days with the acclimatization days, whereas the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be completed within 7 days of the trekking. You can extend the trek days to 10 days too.

So, overall, the EBC trek is more likely difficult than the ABC trek, but still, difficulty may arise at anytime in any condition, so it is important to be prepared well before embarking on any trek.

EBC Trek vs ABC Trek: Which is Longer?

The duration of the trek is dependent on your preference, the itinerary you choose and the route you want to trek. In between the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the EBC trek is longer as it requires a minimum of 13 days to complete considering the difficulties.

The trek to Everest Base Camp takes 13 days if you follow the Everest Base Camp 13-day trek itinerary made by Blue Lake Travels and Tours, while the ABC Trek can be completed in 6, 7 and 10 days.

It is never good to rush during the Himalayan trek, so it is better to pre-plan the itinerary so you don’t have to go through the difficulties during the trek.

Talking about the distance, the EBC trek is approximately 130 kilometers, which is about 81 miles. You have to trek for 6-7 hours in a day with two days of acclimatization at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche if you have a 13-day itinerary.

On the other hand, the ABC trek is around 110 kilometers if you choose to go on a 9–10 day itinerary. You can have a day of acclimatization at the higher altitude and you are required to walk for 5–6 hours a day at a normal pace.

In conclusion, the duration of the trek is dependent on the itinerary and route you choose to take. Remember to plan the itinerary wisely or you may get a package with us, as we can just plan everything for you.

EBC and ABC Trek: Which has better weather conditions?

The weather condition is dependent on the time you choose to trek. While the best time to trek in Nepal is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), the ABC trek still has better weather conditions than the EBC trek.

But why is the weather condition of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek better than that of the Everest Base Camp Trek in the best seasons? It is because the ABC region mostly has lush hills surrounding the trek, which offers absolutely the best weather conditions for trekking.

Although the weather condition of the EBC trek in the best seasons is comfortable, it is not predictable as you are surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks and the weather may change at any time.

Whether you are trekking to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp, it is important to choose the ideal time for trekking. We suggest you do the trek in the spring and autumn seasons, as these seasons offer clear and sunny weather, clear skies with absolutely beautiful scenery and everything is just perfect for hiking.

EBC Trek vs ABC Trek: Which is more expensive?

While the costs of both treks are not exactly comparable, the cost depends on how you prepare, how many days you wish to trek, what’s your plan for the days, how comfortable you want to be on the trek, and what accommodation and food you choose to have.

But, if it is to be compared with the days of trekking, EBC is clearly more expensive than trekking. If you are starting the trek from Kathmandu, then the flight to Lukla can be an additional cost, making it expensive.

Also, the Everest Base Camp Trek involves trekking at higher altitudes, so the accommodation and food costs at the higher altitudes can be expensive compared to those at lower altitudes.

With this, we can get to know that the Everest Base Camp Trek is typically more expensive than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek due to its higher altitude and longer duration.

For the detailed cost breakdown for the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you can follow up on the links provided.

Which has more crowds? Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Everest Base Camp Trek is more popular compared to Annapurna Base Camp Trek, so the crowds are likely higher on the EBC trek during the peak seasons.

But, as of the recent update, Annapurna Region received over 24,000 trekkers in a month. Trekkers these days mostly want easier treks with the best view of the mountain ranges, so the ABC trek is more likely to get more crowds too.

Overall, the crowds during the trek are dependent on the time you are trekking. As spring and autumn are considered the peak seasons of trekking in Nepal, both the EBC and ABC treks receive a higher number of trekkers at this time.

With this, it is important to plan wisely the time you are trekking. Book the flights and teahouses early. Or you may get a package with Blue Lake Tours and Travels, too.

Permits Required: EBC Trek vs ABC Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek: which is worthy?

Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek are both worth it if you are a trekking enthusiast or nature lover. Both treks offer the best experience of trekking in the Himalayan region.

Whether it is enjoying the stunning views of the snow-capped mountain ranges or experiencing the unique culture of the Nepali community, you have them on both of the treks.

If you are a beginner, then it will be a better option to have the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, as it is comparatively less difficult than the EBC Trek. By the way, if you are a beginner, then you must check out the article on Annapurna Base Camp Trek for beginners, as we have also provided the best tips to follow during the trek.

The EBC Trek is more difficult than the ABC Trek but it’s not impossible for beginners with these 8 best tips for beginners.

We know choosing the trek in between the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be difficult but with this article, you might have an idea of which trek to begin with. If you have any queries, feel free to comment down below or send us an email at info@travelagencyinnepal.com!

Also, you can checkout other trek and travel blogs on our website that can help you with the insights of trekking in Nepal.

THANK YOU

Frequently Asked Questions

Which trek is more challenging, Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp?

The difficulty of each trek can vary based on personal preferences and fitness levels. Generally, the Everest Base Camp Trek is considered more challenging due to its higher altitudes, longer duration, and potentially harsher weather conditions. Annapurna Base Camp is often seen as more accessible for beginners.

What is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp?

Both treks have optimal trekking seasons. For Everest Base Camp, the best time is generally considered to be pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn). Annapurna Base Camp also has similar peak seasons, offering the best weather conditions and mountain views.

What are the accommodations and facilities like on the EBC and ABC treks?

Both treks offer a range of accommodation options, including teahouses and lodges. However, Everest Base Camp tends to have more developed facilities due to higher tourist traffic. Annapurna Base Camp also has good facilities, but the infrastructure can be comparatively simpler.

What are the permits required for the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp treks?

For the Everest Base Camp trek, you need to obtain the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Village Municipality Entry Permit. And, for the ABC trek, you need to obtain the TIMS and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).