Nepal without stress

Answers to questions about trekking Annapurna Base Camp (Nepal) in March 2016.

How difficult was the hike overall?
Compared to Georgia, this hike was not difficult for me, the main reason was the normal pace of walking, which was acceptable for me. And even though I was trailing behind, I wasn’t out of breath, I wasn’t worried that I was far behind the group, and I generally had time to take photos and admire the scenery. It was somewhat difficult to spend the night in the cold parts of the hike, but I knew it would be cold, so I was mentally prepared. Personally, I found it difficult to adapt to changing clothes on the road, changing clothes in cold lodges before bed, and trying to shower in a cold room. Those. For me, the main discomfort was caused by a cold overnight stay.

Toughest day of trekking?
For me there was no such day, everything was relatively smooth and without tension. The only thing that made me a little tired were the steps on Chomrong, but I was ready for that, so I didn’t experience any difficulties. The only thing I don’t understand is why we were rushing so fast on the last day of the hike to the jeeps... I realized that this pace was too hard for me.

Should I take porter?
Personally, I think it is necessary. A very acceptable option is 1 porter for two participants. Although, if a person goes hiking with a backpack of up to 10 kg, it may not be necessary, but in general, I think it’s worth strongly recommending, especially for those who are going hiking for the first time and are not particularly physically prepared.

What things (clothing, not food) did you miss on the track? What was unnecessary?
In principle, the set of things was formed according to your list, so everything was enough. I didn't use a couple of extra T-shirts; everything else was used.

How did you experience the effects of altitude (altitude sickness)?
I didn't feel it at all.

How much money did you spend on additional expenses? Is the recommended exchange amount of $300 enough or should I exchange more?
We exchanged $600 between us, some of which we spent on equipment before the hike. We bought puffers, crampons, buffs, hats, microfiber towels totaling about $100 or so. There was enough food for the hike. But it seems to me that the cost of food should still be 20-25 dollars per person, but it would be good to get less. We also spent 150 dollars on souvenirs, quite modest ones at that, and excursions.

Is this how you imagined trekking in the Himalayas? What were the main differences between expectations and reality?
Well, in general, there was no specific idea about the hike initially, so it’s difficult to answer. Initially, we mentally prepared for difficulties of a physical nature, although we actually did not torture ourselves with any physical activity in preparation for the track.

I liked the trail for its diversity, the lodges for their cleanliness and the availability of blankets, the mountains themselves were magnificent. The hot springs were a pleasant surprise. For some reason, I was left with the feeling that little time was spent on the Annapurna base camp itself. Although I really understand that there is nothing special to do there, for some reason I still have the feeling that there was not enough time to admire this mountain range longer.

I would also like to suggest not doing excursions around Kathmandu after the hike. They should be done in the first days of the group gathering. Those. We saw the sights, bought more equipment and went to the mountains. And after the mountains - half a day for souvenirs and home. After all the majestic beauty of the mountains, the last impressions of a dirty and smelly city leave an unpleasant aftertaste. It really worked out well with a longer stop in Pokhara on the way back, perhaps we should consider this option in the future.

What advice would you give to tourists who still have this trek ahead of them?
Listen to the instructor's advice and carefully read the information on the site. This is enough to prepare for the trip.

Yulia Molodozhen, Odessa