Difference Between Everest Base camp & Annapurna Base Camp

Wondering whether to go for Everest Base Camp trek (EBC) or Annapurna base camp trek (ABC)? Let me guide you through as I have concurred Everest Base Camp before and recently returned from Annapurna Base Camp. Therefore, I believe I’ve acquired a firm grip on the advantages & disadvantages, similarities and dissimilarities between both treks.

If you’re in Nepal for just 2 weeks and planning about doing either Everest Base camp trek or Annapurna base camp trek, I’d suggest due to the variety in landscape. The EBC trek starts and concludes at such a lofty elevation that the landscape remains considerably consistent all through the hike. The ABC trek starts outside of Pokhra where it’s hot and dry. The route pursues a river and at the starting my mate and I were able to swim around in cascades & swimming holes due to the scorching sun. We strolled through lots of trees & Rhododendron forests enclosed the route. But this scenic and warm landscape immediately transformed as soon as we got near to base camp. The day before we arrived at the base-camp we got trapped in a snowstorm. The next morning we strolled to Annapurna Base Camp from Machhapuchhare Base Camp during sunrise where we had to hike through the snow. Though in some ways the Everest was more classic due to the cruel conditions & the exhilaration of being able to witness the highest mountain in the globe, Annapurna displayed the diversity & spectacle of the Grand Himalayas.

Another huge difference amid the 2 treks was during Everest Base Camp I had a porter and guide, and for Annapurna Base Camp trek I went with a mate and we carried our own luggage and had no tour guide. However, for the Everest base camp trek, I’d certainly suggest having a guide and porter. Due to the height, I felt eased out to have somebody carrying my baggage. It made the entire experience much more enviable.

Another big difference amid the 2 treks is that Annapurna circuit trek is less crowded compared to Everest Base Camp. I personally didn’t experience this because I went to Everest Base Camp at the starting of the hiking season and it wasn’t that swarmed, but I heard that during the middle of the trekking season, it can be really wild in terms of tourist influx. If you are planning for EBC trekking, I’d suggest going at the starting of the trek season to avoid yourself from the heavy crowd. However, the Annapurna Circuit remains less crowded compared to the EBC.

Overall, I’d say that both of the treks are unbelievable, but they’re certainly different experience and it relies on what you’re looking for. Wish you a happier and safer trekking experience!