Annapurna Base Camp Trek Review: An Unforgettable Experience with Lama and Race Tamang

Post Date: 29 Oct 2026 Post by - Eisley C

Rating: 5/5
Reviewed by: Eisley C (trekked with her partner in September | Nationality: Belgium)
Trek: Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Nepal
Guide: Konchyok Hisi Lama (“Lama”) | Porter: Race Tamang

Quick answer

Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Alliance Treks worth it? For Eisley and her partner, yes. They did the ABC trek in September, and the people made the difference: an experienced, caring guide, a reliable and funny porter, and a trek they call unforgettable.

Eisley’s review, in her words

My partner and I did the ABC trek in September. We were so blessed with our guide Konchyok Hisi Lama or as we call him ‘Lama’. Not only was he the sweetest, he has so much knowledge of the Himalayan mountains and did everything to make our adventure the best experience ever. Our porter Race Tamang, who is stronger than the mules by the way, made our experience so much better. Always helping us, being so reliable and making funny jokes which made us laugh so hard. Thank you so much Race and Lama for giving us this unforgettable experience. If you book a trek with Alliance, make sure to ask for them! ❤️

-Review on Tripadvisor

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Review - Some Glimpses of ABC Trek

What stood out

A guide who knows the mountains. On a trek that climbs for days through villages, forest and high valleys, Lama’s knowledge of the Himalayan mountains and his care for his guests made the difference. Eisley’s word for him, “the sweetest,” says a lot about the atmosphere on the trail.

A porter you can count on. Race Tamang was always helping, always reliable, and quick with a joke. A good porter lets you enjoy the walking without worrying about your bag.

An unforgettable experience. Eisley’s words say it simply: she and her partner would send other trekkers to ask for Lama and Race by name.

The route at a glance

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek leads into the Annapurna Sanctuary, a high glacial basin surrounded by Himalayan peaks. According to Alliance Treks, the standard short itinerary is 7 days round trip from Pokhara, reaching 4,130 m (13,550 ft) at Annapurna Base Camp.

Detail	Information
Region	Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal
Maximum altitude	4,130 m at Annapurna Base Camp
Typical duration	7 days (short itinerary)
Daily walking	About 4 to 7 hours
Difficulty	Moderate; no technical climbing
Accommodation	Tea houses and lodges
Permit	Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), roughly $20 to $25 per person
Best seasons	March to May and September to November

Villages along the trail

You pass through Gurung and Magar villages, including Chhomrong, Sinuwa, Bamboo, Himalaya, Dovan, Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Jhinu Danda. The scenery changes from terraced fields and bamboo forest to open alpine terrain, with Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) getting closer each day. The highlight for many trekkers is sunrise over the Annapurna Sanctuary from Base Camp.

For the full day-by-day plan, read the Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Complete Details.

Trekking in September

September is the end of the monsoon and the start of the autumn trekking season. Late September is usually the better part, as the rain eases and skies clear. Trails may still be damp, so waterproofs and sturdy boots matter. Many trekkers prefer October and November for the clearest views, and March to May for spring flowers. September is a good time if you want fewer people on the trail.

What to pack

Eisley’s review doesn’t cover packing, but Alliance Treks’ guide stresses that a down jacket and a proper sleeping bag are not optional at 4,130 m, and that ATMs stop at Pokhara, so you should carry cash. A rain jacket, warm base layers, broken-in boots and sun protection are also essential. See the full list in the Annapurna Base Camp Packing List.

Why a good guide and porter matter

Safety: A guide notices early signs of altitude sickness and sets a sensible pace.
Knowledge: Local guides explain the villages, culture and mountains, and handle lodges and permits.
Comfort: A porter carries your main bag, which makes the long days easier.
Mood: A cheerful team turns a hard day into a story you’ll still be telling years later, as this review shows.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The short itinerary takes 7 days from Pokhara. Longer versions add rest or acclimatization days.

How high is Annapurna Base Camp?

4,130 m (13,550 ft).

Is the ABC trek difficult?

It’s rated moderate. There’s no technical climbing, but the trail has long ups and downs, and the altitude needs respect.

Is September a good month for the ABC trek?

September falls in the autumn trekking season, though early September can still be wet. Late September is better, and October and November are the most popular months.

Which permit do I need?

An Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at roughly $20 to $25 per person. Your agency can arrange it.

Can I choose my guide and porter?

Eisley’s advice is to ask for Lama and Race when you book with Alliance Treks. Availability depends on dates, so ask early.

Should I do ABC or the Annapurna Circuit?

ABC is shorter and suits trekkers with less time. The Circuit is longer and crosses a high pass. Compare them in Which Is Better: Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit?