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When it comes to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, people report back on the amazing views, pretty villages, and the thrill of getting to the foot of one of the world’s highest peaks.
Also, in many cases, what is not brought to your attention before you do it is the other aspect of the trek, which you only get to know by doing it yourself.
This is a journey of the heart. It’s also a series of small surprises, quiet times, and personal issues, which, in the end, make the trip far beyond what you think it would be.
1. It is not just about destination
You expect to see mountains. We all think of the forests, the waterfalls, the snow. What you may not expect is the impact that the people you meet will have on you.
From friendly lodge owners to cheerful porters and fellow trekkers from all over the world, you will make strong connections on this trail.
At the dinner table, you may chat with a person from the other side of the world. Also, you’ll see a local woman climbing steep stone stairs with a huge basket, which will inspire you with her strength.
2. The route is harder than it appears
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is not the toughest in Nepal, but it is far from easy either. What may appear to be a “moderate” trek ends up being very challenging, which is the case with the endless stone staircases.
Climbing up to Chhomrong from Jhinu or from Deurali out of Bamboo will test your patience and leg muscles. Although the altitude is over 3000 meters, it will still leave you breathless and exhausted.
The trail will put you in your place. Also, it will teach you resilience.
3. The weather is unpredictable
In the best of years, the weather in the Annapurna region is unpredictable. We may be walking along in the bright sun, then into a shower of mountain mist and rain.
Mornings have mostly blue skies, but in the afternoons, we see clouds roll in, which also brings in the fog that covers the great peaks.
That is when you will wake up early and see the first light hit the mountains. It is an experience which is unforgettably magical.
4. You’ll see yourself in the best light
When you stand under the great face of Annapurna I or Machhapuchare (Fishtail), you find it hard to put into words a mix of awe, peace, and humility.
Between the large mountains and the peace of nature, you begin to let go of your worries. You notice how your day-to-day issues are but a fraction of what you are a part of. It is a spiritual moment in which words and cameras fail to do justice.
5. You cry, and that’s okay
After days of travel, which pushed my limits and in which I took in all the beauty and struggle, reaching Annapurna Base Camp brought up unexpected emotions.
Some trekkers break down at the base, not from fatigue but from the power of the moment. It is the end of a journey, the silence of the snow, the sound of the wind, and the great sense of accomplishment. Also, for some, it is a moment of healing.
6. Going in is not as easy as it sounds
Everyone is talking about the climb, but few are talking about the descent. What goes down maybe even harder on your knees than what goes up.
You will feel it on every step that you take, on the steep downhill sections like that between ABC and Bamboo or from Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda.
Using trek boards at a slow pace also makes a great difference. Also, don’t forget to stretch!
7. It Transforms You
The ABC trek doesn’t always change what you see on your Instagram feed. That is the big picture; rather, it changes how you see in subtle ways. You become more patient.
You begin to find pleasure in the basics: a warm meal, a hot shower, a good night’s sleep. Also, you start to see your own strength, which is physical and mental.
When you return home, a piece of the mountains goes with you, the faces of people you met, and the peace you found on the trail.
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is not a trip just for the mountains. It is a voyage within. Although the itineraries and packing lists are a must, it’s the best moments, the quiet struggles, and the unanticipated joys that make it a special experience.
If for no other reason than to bring back more than just memories, go out on that adventure with your heart open, you’ll come back different.