Nepal is a paradise for trekkers, home to some of the major iconic trekking routes of the world. Some major trekking trails are the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, and many more. Among all, the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek are the most popular ones. However, the ABC vs EBC trek, which one is better, is always a part of a big debate.
For decades, there’s been a debate about which one is the best trek. Despite both of these routes offering various similarities, there are various differences as well. Choosing any one of them depends upon your physicality, experiences, time, and budget.
ABC vs EBC Treks Overview
Everest Base Camp Trek Overview
One of the legendary trekking routes around the world, the Everest Base Camp trek lies at the foot of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha Himal. The EBC trek is famous for its challenging terrains, stunning vistas, and the raw and traditional Sherpa culture.
EBC Trek Difficulty & Duration
Number of days: 14 Days
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights:
- Trek past renowned Sherpa towns like Namche, Tengboche & Dingboche
- Stand at Everest Base Camp (5,364m), a lifetime goal
- Sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,555m) with Everest in view
- Experience Sherpa culture, monasteries & traditional villages
- Walk along the Khumbu Glacier and view the Icefall
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a magnificent masterpiece of nature, with a mixture of different cultures. Renowned for its lush forests, terraced fields, and panoramic mountain views, the ABC trek is a paradise in itself. The trek offers beautiful mountain views, including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
ABC Trek Difficulty & Duration
Number of days: 12 Days
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights:
- Ghandruk village, a traditional Gurung village with stunning mountain views and a rich cultural heritage.
- Trekking through green forests, terraced hills, and beautiful scenery.
- Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) amid Himalayan giants is breathtaking.
- Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
Culture and Local Experience in ABC vs EBC Trek: Sherpa Villages vs Gurung Settlements
The trail to Everest Base Camp trek passes through several Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche. People from the Everest Region are known for their mountaineering skills, Tibetan traditions, and monasteries. You can witness the smiling local people and their unforgettable hospitality while trekking in these regions.
Annapurna Base Camp trek, on the other hand, is renowned for its traditional Gurung settlements such as Ghandruk (one of the oldest and largest Gurung villages), Jhinu, Sinuwa, etc. Gurungs of the Annapurna Region are known for warm hospitality, traditional folk dance, and unique stone houses.
Permit Requirements for ABC vs EBC
It is mandatory to have permits while trekking to any region of Nepal. Each region has a different set of permit requirements. Trekking permits requirement for ABC vs EBC treks:
EBC Trek Permits:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
ABC Trek Permits:
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
ABC vs EBC Treks Starting Points: Ghandruk vs Lukla
EBC trek starting point: After taking a 40-minute flight from Kathmandu, start your Everest Base Camp Trek from Lukla to EBC, passing Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep.
ABC trek starting point: Commence your Everest Base Camp Trek from Ghandruk to ABC, after a drive from Kathmandu to Ghandruk via Pokhara. During the Ghandruk to ABC trek, pass through Jhinu, Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Deurali.
Other Famous Trekking Routes of the Everest and Annapurna Regions
Everest Region Trekking Routes:
Annapurna Region Trekking Routes:
- North Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Ghoerpani Poon Hill Trek
- Mardi Himal Trek
- Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
- Jomsom Muktinath Trek
- Khumai Danda Trek
Conclusion
Both the ABC vs EBC treks are unique blends of natural beauty, cultural significance, and challenges. If you are looking for more challenging routes, along with exploring the Sherpa culture, then the EBC trek is what you are looking for. However, it demands more time, physical effort, and budget.
On the other hand, if you are seeking shorter and easier trekking trails, then the ABC trek might be a better option for you. Explore the beautiful landscape and mountain views, and the traditional Gurung culture, on a budget-friendly and easier route.
FAQs
ABC vs EBC: Which Trek Is Better?
It depends upon an individual’s preferences to determine whether Annapurna or Everest Base Camp is better.
Is Annapurna harder to climb than Everest?
Annapurna is considered an easier trail compared to the Everest.
Can we see Everest from Annapurna Base Camp?
No, you can’t see Everest from the Annapurna Base Camp.
Can beginners do the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
Yes, beginners can do the Annapurna Base Camp trek as its difficulty level is moderate.
Which company is best for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
There are several trekking agencies in Pokhara and different parts of Nepal. Among all, Hi Nepal Travels and Treks Pvt. Ltd. is one of the best trek and travel agencies in Nepal with years of high-quality services.