We know for a fact that Mt. Everest is world famous, and it comes with a lot of trek credits and you will definitely be praised by your friends for trekking here, but on the other hand we have Annapurna, which is more diverse and has a comparatively lower altitude, it has rhododendron forest and the crowd is also lesser. Both these treks are popular among trekkers and each offer different, yet mesmerizing views. Now to choose from two such amazing treks is a tricky decision, but we hope that you will find your answer by the end of this article.
Trekking
Mt. Everest
The Everest trail is usually popular among the trekkers to get to the basecamp. Many expeditions wai for you here. The route is most classical option in Nepal. You have to cover a great distance and the altitude is higher which makes this trek time consuming, but it’s also worth it. Gyoko Lakes and passes at Cho La are some good detours from the usual trail. Similarly Island Peak provides you with best views in Himalaya.
Annapurna
Annapurna trek is much easier for people who are not that experienced with trekking. There are fewer steep ascents and the altitude is obviously lower. And unlike Everest, you get to choose from various trails, and some of these don’t exceed 2000m altitude. The descent is also a bit more easier and gentler than Everest. You get to trek new terrain everyday at Annapurna.
Getting to the destination
Mt. Everest
Reaching the base camp is easier these days, but earlier there were no roads to reach the base camp. Now travellers can travel by flight to reach the airstrip at Lukla from Kathmandu. The views along the journey are worth it.
Annapurna
You can reach Pokhara, the base camp of this trek, by bus or flight from Kathmandu. Pokhara sits on the shore of Phewa Lake. It’s a peaceful place with zen atmosphere all around. The perfect place to chill it all out.
Scenery
Mt. Everest
If your love for mountains outlives everything else, then Everest is your ideal pick. Because you will be surrounded by mountains here. Although it’s a high-altitude trek, it still provides the best scenery in Himalayas. Gyoko Lake surrounds you on all sides.
Annapurna
This leads you to a different face of Himalayas. You still get to see snow-capped peaks. The trail begins in lower fertile foothills and goes through oak trees, terraced rice fields and rhododendron galore. And if you are a mountain lover, you will not be disappointed here either because you get to see the Machapuchare and Dhaulagiri. Annapurna definitely has more diversity.
Trek Difficulty
Mt. Everest
The Everest base camp trek is done over a period of 12 days. The total distance covered is approximately 150km. Although the trek is more time consuming and difficult, it is still doable, given the fact that you have reasonable perseverance and fitness.
Annapurna
Annapurna trek takes 6 days only. And the distance covered is 49km. For people with less experience in trekking and people who love shorter and less time consuming treks that still manage to give you the experience of a lifetime, Annapurna is the best option.
Communities
Mt. Everest
The valleys around Everest is home to people of Sherpa tribe and Buddhist monasteries. You will feel the spirituality in the air of this place as you pass by.
Annapurna
The trail passes through many rural settlements. You can find some small farming communities here. In the village of Ghandruk, you will find Gurung people. You will find people from Buddhism, Hinduism and Animism here. If you love to witness varied culture, Annapurna is most likely to be the better option.
Based on priorities of cost, culture, landscape and crowds, if we compare Annapurna to Everest Base Camp trek, most people would prefer Annapurna. Given the fact that each of these treks offer different experiences to trekkers, people still prefer treks that provide you with more diversity and less cost and time. For people who are more of an adventurer, Mt. Everest is your ideal call. But if you want to experience the best of culture, scenic views and want to do the same in less time, Annapurna should be the one for you. It’s your time to decide, and we are hoping we helped you do so.
