Last week my phone buzzed with a message from Nepal. It was Prashant, one of our porters, sending me a photo of his newborn daughter Diyaa, his third child. Prashant calls me Mum. So when that photo came through, it felt like getting a picture of your own grandchild.

This is what people don't tell you about trekking in Nepal. Yes, there's the altitude and the training and the gear lists. All of that matters. But underneath all of it is something that will surprise you if you're not expecting it. The people. Not just the people you trek with. The people who make the trek possible.

Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Himalayas, and one of the most accessible for first-time Himalayan trekkers. But accessible doesn't mean easy. The question I hear most often is: am I actually fit enough to do this?

It's a fair question, and it deserves a straight answer rather than vague reassurance. The reality depends on where you're starting from, how much time you have before departure, and whether you're willing to prepare with intention. Here's what you actually need to know, from someone who has led multiple groups to Himalayan Base Camps with a 100% summit success rate.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is achievable with the right preparation.

This gear guide shares exactly what you need to pack, based on experience, to help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for the trail.

Planning to trek Annapurna Base Camp?

This practical training guide covers cardio, strength, hills, altitude preparation and a simple 12 week plan to help you arrive confident and ready.