Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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Get ready for the captivating journey to one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking destinations at the heart of the Annapurna Region, Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This trek will serve you with the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture and the ultimate reward standing at the foot of the world’s 10th tallest majestic Annapurna I. 

Duration
12 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/ 13,549 ft)
Group Size
14
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
Spring (March-May), Autumn (September-November)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights

  • Explore the beautiful land of Lakes and Mountains, Pokhara
  • Witness a breathtaking sunrise from Poonhill over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges
  • Most epic adventure of a lifetime to the base camp of the world’s 10th tallest mountain; Annapurna
  • Stunning close-up view of iconic Macchapuchhre Himal (Fishtail Mountain) from the Machhapuchhre Base Camp
  • Astonishing beauty of Annapurna Region
  • Traverse through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows and engage in local people's vibrant culture, tradition and way of living
  • Experience the natural hot spring of Jhinu Daada
  • Magnificent view of the snow-capped mountains like Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Fishtail, Himchuli Himal, Khangsar, Gangapurna and many more

12 Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview

Your great voyage to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal starts from the beautiful valley of Pokhara and ends there as well. Your jaunt to the Base Camp of Annapurna starts from the lush subtropical forest and passes through the terraced farmlands, charming local villages, oak, and rhododendron forests to the most beautiful alpine meadows of Annapurna Region.

Nepal Annapurna Base Camp Trek has become renowned as one of the most glorious trekking routes in the world which offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery, providing a fascinating insight into the modern hill life of Nepal. This trek to Annapurna Base Camp attracts a large number of tourists because they find everything that the Himalayas have to offer. ABC Trek is one of the most accessible among the well-maintained trails that snake in and around the 55-kilometer Annapurna massif, separated from the gargantuan Dhaulagiri (8167m) by the Kaligandaki, the gorge deepest in the world.

The Annapurna base camp trek in The Himalayas starts from Nayapul following the Modi River and passing through dense stands of rhododendron and bamboo reaching Ulleri then to Ghorepani. You then will have an early morning hike to Poonhill View Point. You will get to have the grand sceneries from the viewpoint catching more than 32 ranges of Annapurna, along with Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. After the delightful sunrise view, you will continue your journey descending from Tadapani to Chhomrong. 

Your steep alpine trek will finally start from Chhomrong. Passing through the beautiful Gurung villages, following the Chhomrong and Modi River, you will reach main stops like Dovan and Deurali. After trudging for some more hours, you will finally reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and the final trod will take you to the Annapurna Base Camp on 8th day. ABC provides you with an unbelievable view of glaciers, mountain ranges and what not. You will get plenty of time to explore the vicinity of Base Camp. 

You will then trek back leaving the Annapurna Sanctuary and retrace the way to Bamboo following the Modi River. Next day, you will trace the sidewalk further to the natural hot spring of Jhinu Daada to relax your fatigue and sore muscles. You will leave Jhinu Daada stopping at Ghandruk Phedi and Nayapul to Pokhara. Along the way to Annapurna Base Camp and back, you will get to enjoy the warmth of local hospitality in traditional teahouses, the serenity of gurgling rivers and waterfalls, and the vibrant traditions of Himalayan communities. 

With its manageable duration and diverse scenery, Annapurna Base Camp trekking in Nepal is an ideal choice for adventurers of all levels seeking the beauty and mystique of Nepal's trekking heritage. Contact Walk Mountain for your unforgettable trekking memories in the lap of the Himalayas!
 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Day-to-day Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • Max Altitude: 850 m/ 2,788 ft (Pokhara)
  • Distance: 205 km (Drive)
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Day 02: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri
  • Max Altitude: 2,020 m/ 6,627 ft (Ulleri)
  • Distance: 12 km (trek), 40.7 km (trek)
  • Duration: 4 hours (trek), 1 hour (drive)
Day 03: Trek to Ghorepani
  • Max Altitude: 2,850 m/ 9,350 ft (Ghorepani)
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 04: Hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani
  • Max Altitude: 3,210 m/ 10,531 ft (Poon hill)
  • Distance: approx. 10 km
  • Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Day 05: Trek to Chhomrong
  • Max Altitude: 2,210 m/ 7,250 ft (Chhomrong)
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 06: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan
  • Max Altitude: 2,580 m/ 8,464 ft (Dovan)
  • Distance: 8.6 km
  • Duration: 6 hours
Day 07: Trek to Deurali from Dovan
  • Max Altitude: 3,230 m/ 10,597 ft (Deurali)
  • Distance: 7.7 km
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 08: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchre Base Camp
  • Max Altitude: 4,130 m/ 13,549 ft (ABC)
  • Distance: 9.2 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 09: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
  • Max Altitude: 2,310 m/ 7,578 ft (Bamboo)
  • Distance: 16.7 km
  • Duration: 8 hours
Day 10: Bamboo to Jhinu Daada
  • Max Altitude: 1,760 m/ 5,774 ft (Jhinu Daada)
  • Distance: 8.5 km
  • Duration: 6 hours
Day 11: Jhinu Daada to Ghandruk Phedi to Pokhara
  • Max Altitude: 850 m/ 2,788 ft (Pokhara)
  • Distance: 47.5 km (drive), 4 km (trek)
  • Duration: 4 hours (trek),2 – 3 hours (drive)
Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude: 1,310 m/ 4,297 ft (Kathmandu)
  • Distance: 205 km (drive)
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Detailed Itinerary
Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all

After the early morning breakfast at the hotel, you will leave for Pokhara through a tourist bus. You will be going through the Prithvi Highway, enjoying the view of the Trishuli River. After driving for 7 to 8 hours, you will reach the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara. 

Pokhara is a beautiful city of lakes which is also a popular destination for starting or ending the trek in Annapurna Region. You can also get to see the view of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges. Pokhara is a tourist hub, having many popular tourist areas, leisure activities and a serenity of nature. Enjoy your night at this popular tourist hub of Nepal.

You will drive to Nayapul after having breakfast at the hotel. Your official start of the trek begins from Nayapul. While on the road, you will see stunning terraced farms along the Bhurungdi River. After a 1-hour drive from Pokhara, you will reach Nayapul. 

Then you will walk through the small Gurung village toward Birethanti “first check-in point”. After showing your trekking documents there, you will move forward towards the hills following the muddy and dusty road. You will have to walk through more than 4000 stone steps and then towards the village and birch forest. After walking more than 3 hours on hill steps you will reach Ulleri (2020m). Overnight at Ulleri.
 

Your day starts with hot tea and coffee with breakfast at the tea house. Today you will be going hiking to Ghorepani. The trail today will be fascinating. As you move from Ulleri, you will have to walk through a stone step uphill then pass through rhododendron and oak forest. As you ascend, you will get to see a glimpse of beautiful Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Himchuli and other snowcapped peaks. 

After walking through the forest and crossing some amazing suspension bridges and waterfalls, you will finally reach Ghorepani. Ghorepani is one of the most popular and busy villages in the Annapurna region. You can find some local food and products which were made by local people. If you are trekking in the best season, you will observe the area enclosed with snow. Overnight at Ghorepani.

Early in the morning, you will walk to Poonhill viewpoint (3,210m/ 10,531 ft), which takes around 45 45-minute uphill walk from Ghorepani. You will get to watch the mesmerizing sunrise over Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail and other snowcapped peaks. You will see 32 Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges along with other peaks. After spending some time at the viewpoint, taking some photos, videos and some hot tea/coffee, you will then walk back to Ghorepani and have your breakfast. 

Then you will descend to Tadapani, passing through the Rhododendron Forest. You will walk downhill towards Tadapani with the stunning view of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Fishtail passing through the lush green forest. Walking further downhill, you will reach Tadapani and call it your day.
 

After the morning breakfast at Tadapani, you will descend to Chhomrong village. You will walk downhill through the rhododendron wooden forests reaching the beautiful Gurung Settlement of Ghandruk. You will then take a steep descent to the Kimron River enjoying the mind-blowing view of Annapurna South and Fishtail Mountain.  After walking up and down a stone step, you will be reaching Chhomrong village. 

Chhhomrong is a large village of Gurung community offering the incredible views of Mountains like Himchuli, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna. You shall get up early in the morning to enjoy more charming views right in front of your eyes from Chhomrong. 
 

After having breakfast at the teahouse, you will walk to Dovan village by passing Sinuwa. Sinuwa is a small community village where we can see the view of Mt. Annapurna and popular Ghandruk village. You will walk forward to our destination following the Modi River and crossing Bamboo, Rhododendron and Oak Forest. Following the trail, you will reach Dovan where you will be staying overnight.

Today you will enter the alpine vegetation of the Annapurna Region. You will be passing through the rhododendron and bamboo forest and have an amazing view of waterfalls. You have to amble as you enter the mountain area so that you will be less tired and have fewer chances of altitude sickness. 

You will then walk straight up steep stairs and huge rocks. After crossing the Himalaya and Hinku Cave, you will reach Deurali shortly. Stay overnight at Deurali.
 

Today is the most important and memorable day of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. You will be reaching your ultimate destination, Annapurna Base Camp sauntering more than 1000m up from Deurali. The ramble to our junction, Annapurna Base Camp, starts early in the morning. 

You will walk through Birch Forest, ascend through the river channel and climb through the ridgeway of mountains until you reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m). You have to be careful while ascending as there would be a lack of oxygen at the higher altitude. Machhapuchhre Base Camp will serve you with captivating panoramic views of Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Fishtail, Mt. Gangapurna and many more.

You will then continue forward towards the northeast and after 2 hours or so, you will reach Annapurna Base Camp. You will get a breathtaking 360 view of Himchuli, Annapurna South to Annapurna I, Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhre and other peaks from 6000m to 8000m in elevation. You will generally be surrounded by the mountains. Today you will be spending your night on the lap of the Himalayas at Annapurna Base Camp.

Early morning today, you will wake up to see the most magnificent, bewitching sunrise view from the Base Camp of Mt. Annapurna. You will enjoy the view with hot tea and coffee, take some time to click memorable photos and videos and start walking downhill to have breakfast at the teahouse. You will leave the base camp and descend back to Bamboo today following the same trail. Overnight at Bamboo.
 

From Bamboo you will walk straight downhill to Chhomrong after your morning breakfast at the teahouse. You will follow the trail down to Kimrong Khola through the rhododendron, oak, bamboo forest until finally reaching Jhinu Daada. You will take a rest at the tea house of Jhinu daada for some hours and start walking downhill towards the hot spring. Hot Spring is about a 30-minute walk from the lodge.  The natural hot spring will wash away all your fatigue and pain during the trek and it will bring relief and relaxation. You will spend your time in the hot spring and walk back to the teahouse/lodge. Stay overnight at Jhinu Daada.
 

Today marks the last day of your walk on the trail of Annapurna Base Camp, you will enjoy a walk through the hills and steep trails. Walking by the Modi River and crossing through the dense forest, you will take a rest at Ghandruk Phedi. Then you will bid farewell to the Annapurna Region and enjoy the scenic drive to Pokhara. Overnight at Pokhara.

Today, you will return to Kathmandu early in the morning in a cozy tourist bus by following the same Prithvi Highway. While driving, you can see rivers on the left while high hills on the right side. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner with our office team leader, where you can share your experience about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Cost Details
Includes
  • Transportation by bus
  • Accommodation at Lodges/Tea Houses during the Trek (Twin- Sharing)
  • Meals on Full Board during the Trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Experienced & Licensed Local Trekking Guide 
  • Required Permits 
  • Medical Kit for safety of the trekkers.
  • Porter for trekker luggage (if required), one porter for 2 people, maximum weight up to 16 kg for a porter.
  • Farewell Dinner at Kathmandu
  • Certificate of Completion (if required)
Excludes
  • International Airfare, Nepal Visa Fee
  • Private jeep/ Vehicle 
  • Travel & Health Insurance (Helicopter Rescue ride in case of emergency), or any kind of insurance-related things
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Personal Expenses (shopping, snacks, water bottle, soft drinks, souvenir, electricity and others)
  • Other extra costs caused by various uncertainties like landslides, weather conditions, illness, change in governmental policy, etc.
  • Tips for Guide and Potter (expected)
Route Map
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Map
Altitude Chart
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Altitude Graph
Essential Information

Best Season for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The best time to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends upon the kind of experience that you’re looking for. But undoubtedly, the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is in Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (September, October and November). 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April, March & May (Spring):  During spring, the trail is enhanced by the blooming rhododendrons, pleasant weather and open clear view of mountains. The temperature is moderate making trekking comfortable. This time is also ideal for photographers and nature lovers.  

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December, January and February (Winter): If you wish to avoid crowds and enjoy some alone time with nature then taking this trip during December, January or February could also be an option. The snow-covered trails of Annapurna Base Camp Trek from December to February create a magical wonderland for any travel seekers. However, the temperature during this time could be harsh for most trekkers due to extreme cold, snowfall and closed teahouses in the upper region. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September, October and November (Autumn): In autumn, the skies are clear, offering breathtaking mountain views and stable trekking conditions. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in June, July and August (Summer/ Monsoon): Trekking in the Summer or Monsoon seasons will be affected by rain, unclear weather, and closed view and you can get attacked by the leeches too.

Why choose Annapurna Base Camp Trekking in Nepal?

The ABC, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking adventures offering majestic, breathtaking Mountain views, diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. This customizable 12-day trek takes you to the base of the world’s 10th tallest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8,091 m). The trek will take you through the lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and traditional Gurung Villages in the Western Region of Nepal. 

Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will require two permits: -

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): - This permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, one of the protected regions of Nepal. The funds collected from the permit helps to support conservation efforts and the local communities of the region.

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card: - The TIMS card is essential for tracking trekkers for their safety. It helps authorities monitor trekking activities and provide necessary assistance in case of emergencies. 

Services/ Facilities during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Accommodation Facilities

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from the sub-tropical region of Nepal i.e. Pokhara and ascents to the Alpine Region of Nepal i.e. Annapurna Base Camp. In a well-populated/ developed city like Pokhara, you will be staying at a standard hotel providing many amenities. But during the trek, you will be staying at the Tea House/Lodge with the twin bed. Some places have attached bathrooms, whereas you need to use shared bathrooms in some places. The accommodation style and facilities are pretty similar during the trek.

Meals

For meals, we provide three meals per day (i.e. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner per day) from the selected menu as available in the lodge and tea house. Food during the trek is not so well decorated as in Kathmandu and Pokhara however; most of the food is prepared by the local people in their fields. We highly recommend you try Dal Bhat during the trek. The food is organic, delicious, and quite healthy. 

Drinking water

Safe drinking water is available for purchase at teahouses, but the cost increases as you go higher. Carrying a water purification system, like tablets or a filter, can save money and reduce plastic waste.

Amenities

As you ascend to higher altitude, the amenities are pretty limited. You will be provided with basic accommodation, meals and facilities like one blanket, and pillow. But other than that, you might be required to pay for an extra blanket, use Wi-Fi, and hot water facilities, charge your phones, batteries and many more.

What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty level? Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty is of moderate level. This trek is suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness. The elevation gain is around 2000 m to 3000 m gain. You’ll be trekking for 5 to 7 hours daily and the maximum altitude is at Annapurna Base Camp with an altitude of 4,130 m. So, prior trekking experience is not necessary, but it is recommended to have physical training and exercise.  

Fitness/ Training required for Annapurna Base Camp

This trek is of moderate difficulty, and suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level. The total trek of 12 days, but can be modified according to your schedule by consulting with our trekking expert. Since the trek is not that difficult, regular cardio workouts, strength training, and practice hikes before the trek will enhance your endurance and make the journey more enjoyable. 

You need to have a positive mindset and adaptability for basic accommodations, unpredictable weather, and long trekking days. For the essentials, Proper trekking boots, layered clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag (provided by the company), trekking poles, Water purification tablets, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. 

Travel Insurance required during the Annapurna Base Camp Hike

On any kind of high-altitude trekking, we recommend you for insurance. Insurance is necessary to avoid any kinds of risks and mishaps from occurring. As you will be ascending to a higher altitude, there might be very few medical facilities. So, it would be better to have insurance before trekking. Also, ensure that your policy covers emergency evacuations, including helicopter rescues, which are costly but crucial in case of emergencies.

Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost ranges from $900 to $1,500 per person, depending on the trekking package, Accommodation facilities, Meals, permits, modes of transportation, Guide and Porter services. On a standard itinerary, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek budget costs around $900 to $1100. If you customize the itinerary, the Annapurna base camp trek cost per person can range from higher to lower, depending on the above outlined factors as well. 

If you are planning to customize the itinerary, make sure to contact WalkMountain for the best price and suggestion by consulting with our panel of experts.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Equipment Lists
Head
  • Sun Hat or Cap
  • Scarf
  • Light balaclava
  • Warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
Upper Body
  • T-shirts (Long sleeve/Short sleeve)
  • Thermal Base Layer (for cold regions)
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof, windproof shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket
Hands
  • Soft Lightweight gloves
  • Hard Shell outer gloves (for harsh conditions)
Lower Body
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
  • Thermal trousers/leggings
  • Hiking shorts/ pants (convertible)
  • Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
  • Waterproof/ Quick drying pants
Feet
  • Thin, lightweight inner socks
  • Thick, warm technical hiking socks
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Gaiters
Toiletries and Personal Items
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Lip Balm with High SPF
  • Toilet Paper/ Wet wipes
  • 1 medium sized quick drying towel
  • Tooth brush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Small mirror
General Gears and Equipment
  • Sleeping bag rated to 0o F (provided by company)
  • Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
  • Trekking Bag/Duffel bag
  • Large plastic bags for keeping items dry inside trek bag
  • Trekking Poles
  • Water bottles (insulated for cold weather)
Medications and Personal Necessities
  • Basic First Aid Kit (provided by company)
  • Diamox (for Altitude Sickness)
  • Water Purification Pills
Snacks and Other Extra Items
  • Energy bars, chocolates and nuts
  • Camera (extra memory card and batteries)/ Smart phone
  • Power bank (essential for charging devices, solar powered options are great)
  • Pocket knife or multi tool
  • Few passport size photos and photocopy of passport (in case necessary)
Annapurna Base Camp Trek FAQs

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and iconic destinations, leading to the base of Annapurna I (8,091 m), which is the 10th tallest mountain in the world. The trek offers stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural experience and hospitality from the people of Gurung and Magar Village. 

The Annapurna Base Camp trek usually takes around 7 to 12 days, depending on the starting point and the required (customized) itinerary.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek maximum altitude is at Annapurna Base Camp with the height of 4,130 m above the sea level.

The altitude of Annapurna Base Camp is 4,130 m and the Annapurna Base Camp altitude in feet is 13,549 ft. 

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is of moderate difficulty, suitable for trekkers with average fitness. There is no technical climbing during this trek but it does include steep ascents, stone steps and altitude challenges. 

No, trekking experience is not necessary. But, make sure to do some exercise before going for ABC Trek.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek total distance of round hike from Pokhara is around 98 km (60 miles).

Yes, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card are required for ABC Trek. 

The best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is March, April, May and September, October, November, undoubtedly as they are the best season with clear skies, and excellent mountain views.  

Teahouse lodges with basic amenities are available throughout the trail.

Yes, ABC trek is quite safe for solo trekkers but hiring a guide or porter is advisable for safety and navigation.

Yes, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is very safe for trekkers.

Warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag, and trekking poles are recommended.

There is moderate risk of altitude sickness during the trek. As the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp is at 4,130 m, that can cause mild symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). So, acclimatization and hydration are crucial.

Yes, but charging facilities may have additional costs at higher altitudes.

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