Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit: Which Should You Choose?

Trekking in Nepal can’t be compared to anywhere else in the world. The Himalayan region includes 10 of the highest 14 mountains and as a result the scenery is spectacular, with any trip being a rewarding once in a lifetime experience. The Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit are the two most popular treks in Nepal and adventurists may find it difficult deciding which one to choose (first—at least). Here are the pros and cons of the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit.

Everest Base Camp Trek Overview

Distance: 130km roundtrip

Duration: Around 12 days

Difficulty: Difficult

Highest point: 5545 meters

Trekking to the Everest Base Camp will take you on an exciting and wild adventure through the Himalayan Region. It’s a mountain lover’s dream. The route will take you through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the national park where you’ll also find Mount Everest.

Beginning in Lukla, you’ll spend around 12 days with a guide trekking an average of 15km a day with one or two rest days for acclimatisation. The trek involves rocky terrain and snow with a gradual ascent and high-altitude gains, requiring a good deal of physical fitness and overall good health.

There are many highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek from the scenery and the traditional Sherpa villages to the people you meet. You’ll see the majestic viewpoint of Kalapatthar, the highest point of the trek, which offers panoramic views of the world’s highest mountains. You’ll also see Nepal’s biggest and longest glaciers, Khumbu and Ngozumpa. Finally, of course, arriving at the Everest Base Camp is quite the accomplishment. You’ll encounter those who are about to summit and hear stories from those who already have. You can finally bask in the accomplishment of making it to the base and getting that classic celebratory shot.

Takeaway Points of the Everest Base Camp Trek:

You’ll reach higher altitudes and see more mountain views on the Everest Base Camp Trek. It’s a linear route so the scenery on the way out will be the same as the way back – albeit from a different angle. It’s also a more expensive, but shorter trek than the Annapurna Circuit.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Distance: 260km (if walking the entire route)

Duration: Around 16-18 days

Difficulty: Difficult

Highest point: 5416 meters

This exciting Nepalese trek begins in Bhulbhule and takes you on an adventure through various terrains such as lush green hills, lowland villages, and icy glaciers. You’ll witness incredible views of the surrounding mountains as you make your way through the roughly 260km trek over 16-18 days.

Though still a more difficult trek compared to others around the world, the ascents and altitude gains are gentler and its highest point, Thorung La Pass, reaches 5416m, which is slightly less than the trek to the Everest Base Camp.

There are many highlights during the Annapurna Circuit such as exploring Nepal’s cultural Gurung villages and meandering through bamboo and oak to the forests of rhododendron, breathing splashes of colour into the trek. There’s even several hot springs where you can relax your muscles and take a breather. Another major accomplishment and exciting moment is arriving to the Annapurna Base Camp with its incredible views of Mount Annapurna. It’s certainly an achievement to boast about.

Take Away Points of the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit is slightly easier than the Everest Base Camp Trek because of its more gradual gains and lower altitudes. It is, however, a longer journey but cheaper journey in the end. The Annapurna Circuit offers a unique cultural experience as you encounter several villages along the route.