u/Objective-Map-826

Hi everyone,
I’m from Bangalore, India, and I’m planning to do the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek this October. This will be my first multi-day Himalayan trek. The only trek I’ve done before is Kudremukh in Karnataka (around 25 km in a day), so I’m still a beginner when it comes to high-altitude trekking.

I have a few questions:

1. Is hiring a licensed guide currently compulsory for foreign trekkers on the ABC route? I’ve seen mixed information online.
2. Are there any recent changes to permits, trail conditions, landslides, or route closures that I should know about for October? ([Nepal Tourism Board](https://ntb.gov.np/plan-your-trip/before-you-come/tims-card?utm\_source=chatgpt.com)⁠)
3. Is ABC a reasonable choice for someone with my experience, provided I prepare well?
4. Any tips on fitness, packing, or things you wish you had known before your first ABC trek?

Also, if anyone is planning to do the ABC trek in October and is open to having a trekking partner, feel free to comment or send me a DM. It would be great to connect!
Thanks in advance!