Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: A Journey into the Heart of the Himalayas

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is an incredible adventure that takes trekkers to the heart of the Annapurna Massif, at an elevation of 4,130 meters.

ABC trek offers breathtaking views of majestic peaks such as Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m).

ABC Trekking starts from Nayapul or Ghandruk at 1,940 meters and winds its way through the picturesque villages of Chhomrong at 2,170 meters and Bamboo at 2,310 meters, steeply uphill to Deurali at 3,230 meters, to finally reach the Annapurna Base Camp(4130m).

The ABC Trekking trail also offers breathtaking scenery, varying from lush terraced fields and dense rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and glacial moraines in the largest protected area of the world, Annapurna Conservation Area.

Key highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp trekking are the panoramic sunrise view from Poon Hill at 3,210m ( if you are going via Poon Hill) and Annapurna Base Camp with entire Annapurna mountain range, the culturally vibrant village of Chhomrong, and soothing natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, 1,780m, perfect for unwinding after long trekking days.

Before arriving at ABC, trekkers stop at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m), where they can enjoy spectacular views of Machhapuchhre, often referred to as the "Fishtail Mountain." 

The ABC trek Route features significant altitude changes, with daily ascents and descents ranging from 500 to 1,200 meters, making acclimatization crucial to avoid altitude sickness with slow pacing. Actually, no extra acclimatization is required for Annapurna trekking.

Accommodations in Annapurna Base Camp Trek  range from teahouses offering basic but comfortable rooms, hot showers for a fee, and local food such as dal bhat, noodles, and momos, which are available for vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Even the glutton foods are available on the ABC Trekking Trail.

The ABC trek is graded as moderately difficult because of steep ascents, rocky trails, and long periods of walking like 5-7 hours a day coverning 8-10 kilometers; it demands good physical fitness, though prior trekking experience is not necessary.

Annapurna Base Camp trek is easily done even by beginners with some preparation, including cardio and strength training; guided treks offer safety and support.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek transportation options include a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul to Jhino Danda with jeep and public bus and flights to Pokhara from Kathmandu ensure ease of access.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Route lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area, which boasts a diversified flora of rhododendrons and orchids and a fauna of langurs, Himalayan thar, and radiant pheasants. 

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a life-changing trekking experience that involves great landscapes, cultural discovery, and excitement in the Annaurna Himalayas, thus making the trek accessible and memorable to all kinds of trekkers from beginners to experienced trekkers.

Everest Base Camp Trek

The EBC TREK is deep in the Himalayas, offering outstanding views of the world's highest peaks: Everest at 8,848 m, Lhotse 8,516 m, Nuptse 7,861 m, and Ama Dablam 6,812 m. Everest Base Camp trek leads as one of the famous routes in the world.

The Everest Hiking begins with an exciting flight to Lukla (2,860m) either directly from Kathmandu or from Ramechhap and then descends to Phakding (2,610m). In Phakding, trekkers will get a chance to enjoy the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people in teahouses serving simple yet satisfying meals like dal bhat, momos, and noodle soup, while offering accommodation from dormitory-style to private rooms with basic amenities.

From there, the EBC hike will take you to Namche Bazaar at 3,440 meters, a bustling Sherpa town and gateway to Everest, from where acclimatization is a must, due to gaining height to avoid altitude sickness. There are also opportunities to visit nearby viewpoints such as Syangboche (3,780m) for stunning panoramas of Everest and its neighboring peaks.

The Everest Base Camp Trek Route then continues to Tengboche at 3,860 meters, a village known for Tengboche Monastery, which offers views of spiritual Buddhist ceremonies against the stunning backdrops of Ama Dablam and Everest. From there, the Ebc trekking trails goes to Dingboche at 4,410 meters and Lobuche at 4,940 meters, where the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and sparse.

It was on the last settlement before the Everest Base Camp Hiking route, the trekkers reach the place called Gorakshep (5,164m), and from there, they have the tiring hike to Kala Patthar at 5,545m for excellent sunrise views of Everest; finally, to the very Everest base camp at 5,364m, it stands surrounded by glaciers and seracs.

The  trekking to EBC encompasses everything from the dense forests of Lukla to the barren alpine landscapes of Gorakshep, with the possibility of spotting flora and fauna like rhododendrons, blue sheep, and Himalayan monals within Sagarmatha National Park.

Rated as moderately difficult, the EBC Trek presents challenges due to high altitude above 5000m, long walking days (6-8 hours), and cold temperatures. While prior trekking experience and fitness are beneficial, beginners can also successfully complete the trek with adequate preparation, slow pacing and right acclimatization ( at least 2 days- one at Namche and the other at Dingboche).

Connectivity along the EBC trekking trail features Wi-Fi and mobile networks in the main villages, while transportation usually consists of flights to and from Lukla. 

Some trekkers prefer taking a jeep ride to Phaplu (2,413m) or Salleri and Thamdanda from Kathmandu to begin their trek. 

Proper preparation, acclimatization, and respect for the environment and local culture will ensure that the Everest Base Camp Trek is an unforgettable adventure for trekkers of all levels of experience.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights vs Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek Highlights

Annapurna Sanctuary: This is a trek to the Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m (13,550 ft), which happens to be a natural amphitheater surrounded by some of the most beautiful peaks in the Himalayas, like Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Machapuchare (6,993 m).

Machapuchare Views: Enjoy stunning views of the sacred, fish-tail-shaped Machapuchare, which is never climbed to retain its sanctity.

Diverse Landscapes: Enter into lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and high-altitude meadows. Local Culture: Take a walk through the traditional Gurung and Magar villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong, which give insight into the unique lifestyles of the Himalayas in Annapurna Conservation Area.

 Hot Springs: Soak yourself in the natural hot springs located at the bank of Modi River at Jhinu Danda for the perfect unwind after a day of trekking.

Duration Accessible: Compared to the Everest Base Camp trek, this trek has a shorter duration, hence ideal for trekkers with limited time; the duration is 7-12 days. 

Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek Highlights Everest Base Camp: Reach the famous Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 m (17,598 ft) and enjoy overwhelming views of Nuptse at 7,861 m and the Khumbu Icefall.

Kala Patthar: Summit at 5,545 m (18,192 ft) for breathtaking views of Everest 8,849 m, Lhotse 8,516 m, and Ama Dablam 6,812 m.

Authentic Sherpa Culture: Immerse in Sherpa culture in the villages of Namche Bazaar and Tengboche that house the famous Tengboche Monastery.

Sagarmatha National Park: See this UNESCO World Heritage-rich in Himalayan flora and fauna.

Fly to Lukla: enjoy this exciting flight to Lukla 2,860 meters above sea level, considered to be one of the most terrifying airports in the world. 

More Difficult Terrain: It is longer-12-16 days-and with a higher altitude, physically challenging for acclimatization.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is filled with lush landscapes, vibrant villages, and moderate altitudes, making it perfect for trekkers looking to have a shorter yet culturally enriched adventure. 

On the other hand, the Everest Base Camp trek is more demanding because it reaches greater heights with iconic views of entire Everest mountain ranges.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Level of Difficulty vs. Everest Base Camp Trek Level of Difficulty

Annapurna Base Camp is considered a moderately difficult trek, whereas Everest Base Camp is more challenging with a higher altitude gain, taking a longer time and hence requiring more acclimatization.

The ABC Trek starts at about 1,070 meters in Nayapul and then to Jhino Danda or Poon Hill, then gradually goes up to 4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp. 

On the other hand, the EBC Trek starts in Lukla itself at 2,860 meters and goes up to 5,364 meters at Everest Base Camp. Usually, Kala Patthar, at 5,545 meters, forms part of a side trek in this area for fabulous views.

Daily hiking distances on ABC Trek are around 6 to 10 kilometers requiring about 4 to 7 hours of walking in a day. On an EBC Trek, usually, longer stretches of the day would be about 10 to 15 kilometers continuously for 5 to 8 hours, depending upon the itinerary and terrain factors.

The ABC route takes around 7 to 10 days, thus the acclimatization process is more natural since the elevation is lower. The EBC Trek takes approximately 12 to 16 days, with at least two days of acclimatization at Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters) and Dingboche (4,410 meters).

The ABC Trek requires moderate stamina, and its elevation makes it suitable for fit beginners. On the other hand, the higher altitude of the EBC Trek requires greater physical endurance and prior trekking experience or training to mitigate risks such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Thus, though  ABC trek can be a possible trip for novices, properly prepared, and an EBC one involves greater physical challenges because it is not only higher and longer, it calls for some relevant past experience with trekking activities.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Elevation Ranges vs Everest Base Camp Trek Elevation Ranges

The ABC Trek starts with altitudes much lower than others do, starting at around 1,070 meters or 3,510 feet in either Nayapul or Ghandruk or Jhino Danda, continuously stretching upward to reach 4,130 meters or 13,550 feet at at the Annapurna Base Camp. This allows much more time for gradual ascension, unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek, whose paths begin higher at 2,860 meters or 9,383 feet in Lukla, reaching a staggering 5,364 meters or 17,598 feet at its base camp.

The ABC trek generally involves daily ascents that are not very extreme, mostly averaging 400-600 meters per day (1,300-2,000 feet). On the other hand, EBC has a height gain of around 500-800 meters in one day (1,600-2,600 feet) on some days, such as going to Namche Bazaar at 3,440 meters (11,290 feet) and to Gorakshep and EBC.

Acclimatization days on the EBC trek are usually taken at Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters) and Dingboche (4,410 meters). Acclimatization on the ABC trek is less formal and it is, actually, not required at all because of its overall lower altitude.

Kala Patthar, at 5,545 meters (18,192 feet), is the highest point on the EBC trek and far surpasses that of ABC, thus increasing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness, which is an issue above 3,000 meters, especially on the steeper, higher EBC route.

Even with its higher altitude and increased AMS risk, the EBC trek's gradual itinerary and acclimatization days help reduce health issues. Meanwhile, the ABC trek, though less demanding, still offers breathtaking alpine landscapes.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Trail vs Everest Base Camp Trekking Trail

The EBC and ABC trails are two of the most famous routes in Nepal for trekking, each with its unique challenges and experiences awaiting the trekkers.

The EBC trail is steeper and more challenging, especially the section from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche at 3,440-3,860 m and the ascent from Lobuche to Gorakshep at 4,910-5,164 m.

In comparison, the ABC trail has a more gradual ascent, but it still features steep climbs, such as the stretch from Chhomrong (2,170 m) to Sinuwa (2,340 m), which includes many steep stone steps and descents that can be hard on the knees for the beginners.

The EBC trek includes high-altitude challenges like crossing the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, especially near Gorakshep, where the thin air makes each trekkers hard to breath. Therefore, trekkers doing EBC Trek should be careful about it. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Transportation vs Everest Base Camp Trek Transportation 

The difference between the Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks becomes somewhat more pronounced when it comes to transportation and logistics.

For ABC, the starting point is usually Pokhara. To get to Pokhara from Kathmandu, one can take either a 25-minute domestic flight or a 6-8-hour drive by a tourist bus. From Pokhara onward, jeeps or buses take trekkers to the trailheads like Nayapul or Jhinu Danda, depending on the itinerary. These starting points are reached via a 2- to 4-hour drive north of Pokhara on rugged and sometimes dusty roads. Of course, jeep rides confer flexibility, but sometimes be affected by landslides or poor road conditions throughout the monsoon season.

In contrast, EBC requires a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla-35 minutes but most usually delayed or canceled due to weather conditions. Lukla is the only access to the trail, and as such, trekkers are at the mercy of this flight. During peak seasons, delays at Lukla create logistical headaches. Other options include helicopter flights or driving by jeep for 10-12 hours to Phaplu/ Salleri or Thamdanda, with an additional 2-3 days of trekking to Lukla.

ABC relies on road transport, and that gives more flexibility compared to EBC, which relies on the airport at Lukla. At the same time, while the road trips for ABC while dringing along the Prithvi Highway from Kathmandu to Pokhara can be quite rough, the flights for EBC, though efficient, are more susceptible to disruptions.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits vs Everest Base Camp Trek Permits 

The two permits required to begin the Everest Base Camp Trek are the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit. Foreigners will have to pay NPR 3,000 for a Sagarmatha permit, whereas the permit at the municipality costs NPR 3,000. The permits are available at both Kathmandu and Monjo.

For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. The ACAP is also NPR 3,000 for foreigners, and the TIMS card costs NPR 2,000 for independent trekkers or NPR 1,000 if arranged through an agency. These permits are available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Both permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara from the Nepal Tourism Board offices, though they are also issued at the various entry points en route. However, there might be minor delays and/or added fees. Travelers are advised to bring along their passports, passport photos, and cash to pay for it.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Legacy vs Everest Base Camp Trek Legacy

The ABC was one of the first treks in Nepal to open up to international trekkers after the Annapurna region opened in the 1950s. It's a rich combination of natural beauty and culture, stopping at iconic Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong.

The EBC is closely connected with the history of mountaineering and follows the footsteps of great legends such as Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, who conquered the summit in 1953. It is a dream journey for people inspired by the world's tallest peak.

ABC Trek is famous for its spectacular landscape with an amphitheater-like shape, surrounded by towering peaks such as Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. It is also noted for its rich biodiversity in the Annapurna Conservation Area.

EBC generally proffers dramatic landscapes, iconic Khumbu Glacier, and an extremely rich Sherpa culture depicted in villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche.

Both treks are very popular, though EBC is a favorite of tourists who want to experience the worldwide fame of Everest, while ABC is preferred by trekkers seeking varied cultural and natural experiences, including brilliant mountain scenery within a shorter period.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Preparations vs Everest Base Camp Trek Preparations

The ABC and EBC treks have different preparations owing to the fact that they come with different challenges and altitudes.

In the case of the ABC trek, trekkers should be in good physical shape, but it usually involves a less demanding climb and shorter ascent compared to the EBC trek.

In contrast, the EBC trek requires more intense physical training because of the higher altitude and longer days of trekking.

Both treks require knowledge of how to prevent altitude sickness, but the risk is higher on the EBC trek due to the higher altitude of 5,364 meters.

In packing for ABC, general trekking equipment is enough, but EBC needs extra gear for cold weather, as the temperature significantly drops at Everest Base Camp and Kalapattar.

While both treks have teahouse accommodations, EBC is more remote, and the facilities can be very basic, which means trekkers will need to bring extra supplies like light foodstuffs.

Many trekkers who are planning to go on an EBC trek start training with inclines or go on altitude hikes to get ready for the challenging ascents and changes in elevation.

Speaking of mental preparation, the EBC trek requires more resilience because of its longer duration, colder conditions, and higher altitude.

To put it in a nutshell, the Everest Base Camp Trek requires more intense preparation with respect to physical fitness, gear, and mental preparedness, especially in response to higher altitude.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Reviews vs Everest Base Camp Trek Reviews 

Annapurna Base Camp trek encompasses the diversity of landscapes: from the lush forest to breathtaking mountain scenery; likewise, it shows diverse flora and fauna that amazes trekkers during their trek. A lot of tourists consider ABC peaceful and prefer this camp compared to the noisy EBC.

On the other hand, EBC trekkers have mostly spoken about the great view of Mount Everest and the fulfillment that one gets when he reaches the highest peak in the world. The trail tends to be more crowded and commercialized, which can affect the overall trekking experience for some.

At the end of the ABC trek, many adventurers feel a deep sense of satisfaction, as the trail is relatively easier compared to other trails, even though it has its own challenges. For many, the journey is less about extreme physical exertion and more about appreciating the beauty and cultural richness of the Annapurna region in grand Annapurna Conservation Area.

EBC trekkers often refer to the enormous mental and physical strength required for reaching the base camp, while the feeling of accomplishment is overwhelming after one has faced altitude sickness and tough conditions. Both treks are rewarding in their own ways, but they differ greatly in terms of difficulty, crowd, and landscapes that trekkers get to see.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Foods and Accommodation vs Everest Base Camp Trek Foods and Accommodation 

Although similar in many ways, there are some striking differences in food options and accommodations between the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek. Both trails have staple meals like dal bhat, momo, and thukpa. These are filling and happen to be pretty standard dishes in both regions for the purpose of energizing trekkers. However, at the higher altitudes of the Everest Base Camp Trek, it often has a more limited selection, with fewer local specialties beyond the basics. While in contrast, Annapurna Base Camp Trek will normally have a wide range of food, including some international dishes like pasta, pizza, and fried rice, due to its greater volume of tourists.

In terms of costs, the prices of food on the Everest Base Camp Trek are higher, especially as you ascend. For example, a meal in Namche Bazaar might cost around $5-$8, but as you go further up, it could increase to $10 or more. On the Annapurna side, meals in Pokhara start at a lower price, around $3-$6, but do rise slightly with altitude.

Accommodation prices are somewhat similar on both treks, with basic guesthouses on both routes. However, the Everest region has fewer options at higher elevations for food and lodging that costs little costly in Everest region accommodation. One night accommodation in Everest Base Camp Trekking Trails costs between USD 6-15.

On the whole, the Everest Base Camp Trek is more costly and less varied than the Annapurna Base Camp, especially at higher elevations such as Dingboche or Gorak Shep.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Pack list vs Everest Base Camp Trek Packlist 

Comparing Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) with Everest Base Camp (EBC) in terms of equipment requirements, both treks will require similar gear; however, they differ in terms of altitude and conditions. For both treks, important gear includes a good, strong backpack, waterproof jacket, trekking shoes, sleeping bag, and layers of warm clothes. However, the 

EBC Trek requires more detailed gear owing to its higher altitude, cold temperature, and longer time. Trekkers on the EBC route should have an oxygen mask, insulated gloves, and a more robust sleeping bag.

Trekkers can buy all the gear along the trails, but it is widely available in Pokhara for the ABC trek and Lukla or Kathmandu for the EBC trek. Actually, there are shops selling jackets, boots, and gloves along these parts, but the quality and prices vary. Generally, gear bought along the trail tends to be more expensive than what you would find in Kathmandu or Pokhara because of limited availability.

To get the best prices and quality, it is better to purchase trekking gear in Kathmandu or Pokhara before embarking on the trek. Both Kathmandu and Pokhara have various shops that deal in trekking gear, such as The North Face, Sherpa Adventure Gear, and Mountain Hardwear, offering a wide selection of durable and reliable equipment.

The most important things to do are test your gear beforehand, wear breathable fabrics, and break in your boots to avoid blisters. If you do not want to carry everything, you might consider renting things like sleeping bags from Kathmandu for EBC Trek or from Pokhara for ABC Trek .

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Success Rate vs Everest Base Camp Success Rate 

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and Everest Base Camp (EBC) treks are among the most sought-after trekking routes in Nepal, each providing distinct experiences and challenges.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Success Rate

The Annapurna Base Camp trek reaches the height of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). The death rate for trekkers along this route is relatively low, usually less than 1%. Most deaths are related to complications from acute mountain sickness (AMS), which can be prevented with proper preparation and acclimatization.

Everest Base Camp Trek Success Rate

The Everest Base Camp trek rises to 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). Estimates put the success rate for trekkers reaching the base camp at over 95%. However, about 70% of trekkers reach EBC, while only around 50% reach the summit of Kala Patthar at 5,645 meters (18,520 feet). About 30% of trekkers return to Lukla by helicopter, avoiding the trek down.

Success Rate Factors

Key factors contributing to success rates for both treks are altitude sickness, poor acclimatization, physical fitness, and weather conditions. In the case of the ABC trek, AMS is a huge factor, even at much lower altitudes. In the case of the EBC trek, the higher altitude increases the risk of AMS, and therefore proper acclimatization becomes necessary.

Tips for a Successful Trek

Proper Acclimatization: Go up the altitude gradually to give time to your body to adjust.

Physical Training: Do regular aerobic and muscular exercises before going on a trek.

Keep Your Body Hydrated and Fed: Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food to keep your energy levels up.

Pay Attention to Health: Watch for signs and symptoms of AMS and visit the hospital if necessary.

Season: The best time to do this trek is during the recommended seasons: from March to May and September to December.

These are some basic tips that can help trekkers in having a safe and successful adventure to Annapurna or the Everest Base Camp.

Possibility of Altitude Sickness in Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Possibility of  Altitude Sickness in Everest Base Camp Trek

Altitude sickness is a big factor in both the Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks, though the risk of altitude sickness is different because of the altitudes reached during trekking and the acclimatization strategies. In the EBC trek, higher altitudes increase the risk of altitude sickness, especially when the trekkers reach 5,364 meters at Everest Base Camp. The risk increases with height and could affect trekkers at over 4,000 meters, especially places such as Dingboche, which is 4,410 meters above sea level, and Lobuche, which stands at 4,940 meters.

In contrast, the Annapurna Base Camp trek reaches its peak at 4,130 meters at Base Camp and generally remains at a lower altitude, which reduces the risk of altitude sickness. However, trekkers might still face symptoms as they climb to areas like Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 meters) and Annapurna Base Camp, making proper acclimatization essential.

Both treks require acclimatization planning to avert altitude sickness. Acclimatization for EBC involves one rest day at Namche Bazaar, 3,440 meters above sea level, and another at Dingboche to adapt to the higher altitudes. In the case of ABC, the resting at Tadapani for a day allows a gradual ascent to the height of 2,630 meters but it is not mandatory.

Prevent altitude sickness by ascending slowly, staying well-hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and consuming light meals. If symptoms arise, it's important to descend to lower altitudes without delay.

Final Words

The ABC and EBC treks are the two most popular destinations in Nepal for trekking, as both offer unique experiences. While both treks promise breathtaking views and a sense of adventure, they differ in terms of difficulty and landscape.

While the maximum elevation one can gain from Everest Base Camp Trek is 5,364 meters at EBC, whereas the Annapurna Base Camp Trek only offers a maximum height of 4,130 meters and is normally more moderate in trekking grade. Thus, it has become suitable for trekkers looking for something less stressful.

The Everest trek provides views of the highest peaks in the world, such as Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, while the Annapurna trek presents great vistas of the Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri mountains. Besides that, the Annapurna trek is famous for its varied landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows.

Both treks are accessible from the nearest airports: Lukla for Everest and Pokhara for Annapurna. However, the EBC Trek attracts more tourists annually, making it a busier and more popular choice.

In the end, this is going to be a question of your personal preference regarding adventure, scenery, and difficulty level, but both will create lifetime memories.