Everest Base Camp Trek vs Annapurna Circuit: Which One is Right for You?

What's the Difference Between Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Everest Base Camp Trek

The EBC trek leads to the base of Mount Everest, the world's tallest mountain, at an altitude of 5,364m. This 11-14 day round-trip trek takes you through some breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Along the way, you will see iconic peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Kangtega, and many others. The journey starts with the flight to Lukla, reported as one of the most dangerous airports in the world. It is also quite famous for its Sherpa culture and people known for thriving on the high altitudes and offering great hospitality. As great as the views might be, with wonderful cultural exposure, it is pretty crowded and relatively expensive, considering other treks; accommodation in such areas also comes at a higher cost.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The ACT is longer and takes 11-21 days to complete, circling around the Annapurna massif, crossing over Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, which is considered one of the highest mountain passes in the world. Its diversified landscapes are varied from subtropical forests to high deserts, while sightseeing views of peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna II, among others, will be great to watch. The trail also passes through Hindu villages, Tibetan-influenced communities, and apple farms. Some of the major highlights of this trek are Thorong La Pass, Jhinu Danda, Tatopani, Manang, Jomsom, and Muktinath. The ACT is less crowded and is more affordable, with easier road access, thus becoming an ideal choice for trekkers in search of diversity at a reasonable price.

Normal Itinerary of Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp Trek

EBC or ACT ? Which trek is more difficult?

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Everest Base Camp Trek difficulty level is a moderate to highly challenging trek that requires good physical fitness and mental preparedness. The trek covers approximately 130 kilometers in 12–14 days, steep ascents, rugged terrain, and high altitudes-from Lukla at 2,860 meters to 5,364 meters at Base Camp. A substantial amount of time is spent in high-altitude regions, adding to the difficulty and requiring proper acclimatization. No technical skills are required, though thin air and the long walking hours need some steady pacing and determination.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

TheAnnapurna Circuit Trek is a moderately challenging trek that has various terrains and high-altitude passes. It measures about 160–230 kilometres, depending on the route, and usually takes 12–20 days. The most challenging part of this trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, which means trekkers have to battle with thin air, steep ascents, and cold temperatures. No technical climbing skills are needed, but good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are necessary to handle the high altitude and physical demands.

Which option is better for you?

While comparing the Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp trek difficulty both are somewhat challenging, though Everest Base Camp is generally regarded as more difficult because you spend more time at high altitudes above 4,500 meters.

We recommended the Annapurna Circuit Trek for beginners. It is relatively longer, but the chances of altitude sickness are less, and the trek is easier to accomplish. The paths are broad and safe enough to walk on. The Everest area is remote compared to the Annapurna region since there are no roads that connect it. Irrespective of that fact, in case of emergencies, both of these areas have a facility of helicopter rescue. Ultimately, you can choose the trek depending on your physical fitness and trekking experience.

Which Trek Covers More Distance?

Everest Base Camp Trek distance

TheEverest Base Camp Trek distance is a 130 km (80 miles) round trip from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, sitting at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). The length of this trek generally takes about 12-14 days, including rest for proper acclimatization

Annapurna Circuit Trek distance

The Annapurna Circuit Trek ranges from 160 to 230 kilometers (100-145 miles) depending on the route and where the trek starts. This classic trek takes 12–18 days to complete and circles the Annapurna massif, crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Daily walking distance in Annapurna Circuit Trek varies between 10–20 kilometers (6–12 miles).

Which option is better for you?

If you have less time and are looking for a shorter trek, the Everest Base Camp Trek might be the best option for you. It takes you to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world within a time frame of just 12–15 days.

How Accessible Are the Starting Points of the Treks?

Everest Base Camp

The Everest Base Camp Trek is pretty easy to reach. Lukla, also known as the gateway to Everest, is where this trek starts. You can reach Lukla by a direct flight from Kathmandu to the nearest airport of Everest Base Camp, named Lukla Airport. However, flights to Lukla are pretty expensive. Alternatively, you can skip the flight and take a bus to Salleri, from where the route goes via Phaplu, and then trek for days to reach Lukla.

Annapurna Circuit

The starting point of the Annapurna Circuit could be reached by bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the gateway to the trek. There are buses that are very moderately priced, though they take longer to reach and require a transfer at Dumre. Private jeeps or microbuses are available, taking you directly to Besisahar without much hassle. Alternatively, you can start the trek from Bhulbhule at 7 km from Besisahar, Syange at 22 km from Besisahar, or Jagat at 30 km from Besisahar; all of these places you can reach by jeep.

Which option is better for you?

I think the Annapurna Circuit is easier to get to because the transportation options are more reliable. Reaching Everest Base Camp is often expensive, and if you don’t take a flight to Lukla, getting to the starting point of the Everest Base Camp Trek can be difficult.

Cost Comparison of Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek

Permit costs

The three permits you need for trekking in Everest Base Camp are the TIMS card for approximately $17, which works as identification for trekking in Nepal. Then, you will have to pay $30 for entrance into Sagarmatha National Park. Another permit is that of the Khumbu area, which is about $15. In total, the cost for the Everest Base Camp Trek permit is roughly $62. You will be able to get these very easily in Kathmandu before beginning your trek.

For the Annapurna Circuit, you need two permits: the TIMS card for $10 and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for $30. In total, this will be an approximate $40 for the Annapurna Circuit Trek permit. They are pretty easy to obtain in Kathmandu or Pokhara, so this makes getting them quite convenient and relatively easy.

Transportation cost

It is more expensive to get to the start of the Everest Base Camp Trek. You will have to take a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is around $180-200 one way. This flight is scenic, but it totally depends on weather conditions and most often faces delays.

It is easier and less costly to reach the Annapurna Circuit compared to other roadways. From Kathmandu or Pokhara, one can get either to Besisahar or to Chame, common starting points of this trek, by bus or jeep for $10-30. Some trekkers fly to Manang to shorten the trek; this greatly increases the overall cost.

Accommodation and food cost

Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp both treks utilize teahouses for accommodation, but the prices are higher on the EBC Trek. Teahouses on EBC charge from $8 to 20 USD per night for basic rooms, while ACT costs $5 to 15. Food and drinking water is more expensive on EBC, too, with meals 30-50% more expensive. A typical meal on the ACT will be around $4-8, whereas on EBC, it will be $6-12. Prices on EBC go even higher as you ascend.

Additional Expenses

Both treks need similar basic gear, but you’ll need warmer clothes for Everest Base Camp (EBC) because of its higher altitude. Hiring a guide or porter costs about the same, though it’s slightly more expensive for EBC ($25-30 per day) compared to the Annapurna Circuit (ACT) ($20-25 per day). Extra costs like hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi range from $2-5 each, but these are usually pricier on the EBC trek.

Which option is better for you?

When comparing the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit trekking costs, the overall cost of the Annapurna CircuitTrek begins at about $1,200, compared to the starting price of Everest Base Camp Trek is around $1,500. These include all costs associated with permits, transportation, accommodation, food, and other miscellaneous expenses. EBC is more costly because of higher transportation costs, teahouse rates, and warmer clothing at high altitude. If you're wondering which is better, Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit?, then the Annapurna Circuit is a great option.

Tea houses and accommodation options

Everest Base Camp accommodation

Accommodation on the Everest Base Camp Trek is basic, offering twin-sharing rooms and shared bathrooms. As you go up, facilities will become increasingly basic and expensive to maintain supplies. Most rooms, other than the common dining area with its yak-dung stove, are unheated. Accommodation here is costlier, due both to the popularity of the trek and high altitude reached.

Annapurna Circuit accommodation

Annapurna Circuit offers more varied and comfortable lodgings. Compared with teahouses, the facilities are superior with private bathrooms, hot showers, small guest houses to decent lodges. Because this area is at relatively low altitude and has easier access, supplies can be transported without too much of a problem; this means the prices are cheaper and facilities more equipped. Better food can be offered with more reliable electricity.

Which option is better for you?

For more comfort and ease during your trek, Annapurna Circuit is better in terms of accommodation. The lodges at Annapurna Circuit are generally comfortable with private bathrooms and hot shower accommodations, and they have more palatable food options available. Due to the area having a low altitude, the transportation of supplies can be more accessible; therefore, accommodation there is much easier and relatively cheap.

Which trek has better internet/phone connectivity?

Everest Base Camp Trek

The internet and phone connectivity in Everest Base Camp Trek is actually pretty well connected, due to the recent investment in telecom infrastructure. Most of the teahouses offer Wi-Fi, but it usually comes at a price. You will get 3G/4G coverage in many areas up to Gorak Shep, and Namche Bazaar has reliable connections. You can also buy an Everest Link Wi-Fi card, which works in most parts of the trek. However, internet speeds are slow, and bad weather can cause interruptions. Many tea houses also provide charging facilities at extra costs.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit has varied connectivity; cellular and internet access are pretty good in the lower parts of the trek, especially in the villages of Manang and Jomsom, while, as a rule, connection is unreliable over higher passes like Thorong La. Many tea houses offer Wi-Fi, though it is slower and less reliable compared to the Everest Region. Remote sections of the circuit may have little to no coverage.

Which option is better for you?

In my opinion, the Everest Base Camp Trek generally offers better connectivity, especially with reliable service in areas like Namche Bazaar and Gorak Shep, along with the option to purchase an Everest Link Wi-Fi card.

Which trek offers better views?

Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a section of the most fantastic high mountain scenery in the world. It offers close-up views of Mt. Everest, at 8,848 meters, and other famous peaks: Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. This trek focuses on high-altitude landscapes, with snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and dramatic sights like the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall; all of these can be seen from several viewpoints in the Everest region. From Kala Patthar, one can see some of the best panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit varies in landscapes and ecosystems, from subtropical forests to desert-like arid landscapes, deep gorges, and high-altitude alpine environments. Mountain peaks in view include the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri-8,167m, Manaslu. From Thorong La Pass (5,416m), magnificent 360º views of the Himalayas are in sight. In addition, attractive villages in route include the place of Marpha and the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki gorge. The changing landscape around makes each day different and exciting on this trek.

Which option is better for you?

Speaking frankly, the Everest Base Camp trek has something to offer in views that you wouldn't want to miss in life. Although the Annapurna Circuit may offer you a variety of landscapes; the Everest Base Camp Trek presents you with a few of the most iconic mountains of the world right in front of your eyes: Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Pumori, Nuptse, and many more. Moreover the views seen from Kala Patthar is just unforgettable, which you will definitely not like to miss either.

Which trek is less crowded?

Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp trek is much more crowded, especially during peak seasons (October-November and March-May). Teahouses along the trail often fill up quickly, and places like Namche Bazaar and Gorakshep can feel busy. You’ll share the trail with many trekkers, especially around key viewpoints and during popular morning hiking hours. Because the trek is famous worldwide and on many bucket lists, it attracts large numbers of people. During peak season, you might need to book accommodations in advance. The narrow trails can sometimes feel congested, especially near popular photo spots.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is less crowded compared to EBC, partly because new roads have reduced the number of trekkers on some sections. The circuit’s length and multiple route options spread people out, so you’ll often walk alone or with just a few others. While places like Manang and the Thorong La Pass can get busier during peak season, many parts of the trail remain quiet. You may also want to head off into side valleys or take alternative routes to avoid the crowds. The top parts of the circuit are generally quiet during peak season.

Which option is better for you?

If you are wondering which Everest or Annapurna Circuit to choose then Annapurna Circuit is slightly less crowded than the Everest Base Camp Trek. The new roads made it possible to reach with vehicle parts of the Annapurna Circuit, therefore reducing the overall number of trekkers there. Longer in length and offering more route variations, you'll often find quiet trails. While places like Manang and Thorong La Pass can get busier, large areas of this trek are still pretty quiet, especially if you take side routes.

FAQs

Which trek is better: Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit for beginners?

For beginners, the Annapurna Circuit trek is generally easier since it encompasses more gradual ascents, and on the route, there are more opportunities to become acclimatized. The Everest Base Camp trek can be more demanding in its steep landscape at high altitude; both are achievable with proper preparation.

Can I trek solo on EBC/ACT?

Yes, you can trek solo in both the EBC and the ACT, but one should be prepared, know the route, and take some necessary safety precautions. It's a good idea to let someone know your plans.

What's the minimum time needed for each trek?

The Everest Base Camp trek requires a minimum of 12 to 14 days for completion, including acclimatization, while the Annapurna Circuit trek takes around 12-14 days, depending on which route you decide to take.

Are ATMs available on these routes?

There are ATMs in places like Pokhara and Kathmandu, but along the trek routes, they are very limited. It is best to carry enough cash for the entire trek.

Which Trek is Better for Families with Kids?

Everest Base Camp is good for families with kids. Even though both treks are excellent, the Annapurna Circuit trek encompasses a high pass known as Thorong La, which is considered very demanding and challenging, especially for young trekkers. The trek to Everest Base Camp has more gradual ascents, is well-supported with teahouses, and boasts great views, making it an ideal choice for families.

What is the best season for each trek?

The best season for both the treks would be Spring-March to May and Autumn-September to November: the weather usually is clear in these seasons and trails are relatively less snowy-just perfect to go trekking.

Conclusion

If you are choosing between the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit, here are things to consider: The Everest one would be great if you ever wanted to see Mount Everest up close and experience Sherpa culture; it is a bit more expensive-starting at $999-more crowded, with flights and lodges also costing more.

The Annapurna Circuit is affordable from $699, less crowded, and offers a variety of landscapes, from forests to deserts, with diverse cultural experiences. It's also better for beginners because of the more gradual altitude gain.

Here at Himalayan Recreation, we have the best packages for both EBC and the Annapurna Circuit, including professional guides, smooth logistics, and full support for your trek. Please do not hesitate to contact us, we'll be happy to help you choose between these two magnificent treks!