Trekking

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Max altitude: 4,130 m / 13,550 ft
Group size: 2+
Grade: Moderate
Best season: March–May, September–November

Accommodation: Hotel + Teahouse

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most spectacular Himalayan trekking adventures, taking travelers deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering snow-covered mountains, dramatic valleys, lush forests, and traditional mountain villages. Reaching an elevation of approximately 4,130 metres, Annapurna Base Camp offers an extraordinary close-up experience of some of the world’s most impressive Himalayan peaks.

The journey begins in the beautiful city of Pokhara and follows scenic mountain trails through traditional Gurung villages, terraced farmlands, dense rhododendron forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque river valleys. Along the way, trekkers pass through charming settlements such as Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and Bamboo, experiencing the warm hospitality, culture, and traditions of local Himalayan communities.

As the trail gradually climbs into the Annapurna Sanctuary, the landscape transforms into a spectacular alpine environment surrounded by magnificent Himalayan giants. The route passes through Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching Annapurna Base Camp, where trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and surrounding peaks.

Unlike many longer Himalayan expeditions, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers an incredible high-mountain experience within a relatively manageable timeframe. With comfortable teahouse accommodation, beautiful natural scenery, and rich cultural encounters, it is an excellent choice for trekkers seeking an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

The trek requires reasonable physical fitness and preparation, particularly for long walking days and the increasing altitude. Proper acclimatisation, weather awareness, and responsible trekking practices are important throughout the journey.

Trek Highlights

Reach Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 metres.
Explore the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary.
Enjoy close-up views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Visit Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Experience traditional Gurung villages and Himalayan hospitality.
Walk through beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests.
Explore scenic mountain settlements including Ghandruk and Chhomrong.
Enjoy natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, subject to route arrangements.
Experience diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine mountain terrain.

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Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Receive a trek briefing and complete the necessary preparations for your Himalayan adventure.

Day 2: Kathmandu – Pokhara

Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus or private vehicle, enjoying beautiful views of rivers, terraced farmlands, green hills, and traditional settlements. Upon arrival, explore the lakeside area and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Pokhara.

Day 3: Pokhara – Nayapul – Ghandruk

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or the designated trailhead and begin trekking towards Ghandruk. Follow scenic trails through terraced fields, traditional settlements, and beautiful countryside landscapes before reaching this charming Gurung village.

Day 4: Ghandruk – Chhomrong

Continue trekking through forested hills, stone-paved pathways, and scenic mountain landscapes. Pass traditional settlements and enjoy beautiful views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre before reaching Chhomrong.

Day 5: Chhomrong – Sinuwa – Bamboo

Descend through stone staircases towards the Chhomrong Khola and cross the suspension bridge before ascending towards Sinuwa. Continue through beautiful forests and narrow mountain trails to reach Bamboo.

Day 6: Bamboo – Dovan – Himalaya – Deurali

Follow the trail through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, passing Dovan and the Himalayan settlement. Continue ascending alongside mountain streams and waterfalls towards Deurali, surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery.

Day 7: Deurali – Machhapuchhre Base Camp – Annapurna Base Camp

Continue through the spectacular alpine landscape towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Enjoy magnificent views of surrounding Himalayan peaks before proceeding to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), where the impressive mountain amphitheatre offers an unforgettable experience.

Day 8: Annapurna Base Camp – Machhapuchhre Base Camp – Bamboo

Wake up to breathtaking Himalayan scenery before beginning the descent. Retrace the trail through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan before reaching Bamboo.

Day 9: Bamboo – Sinuwa – Chhomrong – Jhinu Danda

Descend through beautiful forest trails towards Sinuwa and Chhomrong before continuing to Jhinu Danda. Enjoy the surrounding natural scenery and, if time and conditions permit, visit the area’s popular natural hot springs.

Day 10: Jhinu Danda – Siwai – Pokhara

Complete the final section of the trek towards Siwai or the designated roadhead. Drive back to Pokhara through scenic countryside, river valleys, and traditional settlements.

Day 11: Pokhara – Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus or private vehicle, enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the journey. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Nepal.

Day 12: Kathmandu – Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your international flight schedule, concluding your memorable Annapurna Base Camp trekking adventure.

Included / Not included

Included

Airport transfers in Kathmandu, as specified.
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, as specified.
Tourist bus or private ground transportation according to the itinerary.
Experienced English-speaking trekking guide.
Porter services, according to the selected package.
Guide and porter wages, meals, accommodation and insurance.
Teahouse or mountain lodge accommodation during the trek.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking period, if specified.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Applicable trekking registration and documentation arrangements.
Basic first-aid support from the trekking team.
Government taxes and service charges included in the quotation.

Not Included

nternational airfare.
Nepal entry visa fees.
Personal travel and medical insurance.
Emergency helicopter evacuation and medical expenses.
Personal trekking equipment, clothing and footwear.
Personal expenses, snacks and beverages.
Hot showers, Wi-Fi and device charging where separately charged.
Tips and gratuities for guides and porters.
Additional accommodation and meals outside the agreed itinerary.
Additional transportation not specified in the package.
Expenses resulting from flight delays, road closures or itinerary extensions.
Any services not specifically mentioned under Cost Includes.

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More information

Important Information

Trek Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. Suitable for trekkers with reasonable physical fitness and preparation for consecutive days of walking.

Maximum Elevation: Approximately 4,130 metres at Annapurna Base Camp.

Trek Duration: Generally 8–12 days, depending on the selected route, starting point and transportation arrangements.

Best Season: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally preferred for favorable trekking conditions and mountain views.

Accommodation: Comfortable teahouses and mountain lodges are available along the main route. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations.

Meals: Traditional Nepali meals and common international trekking dishes are generally available at teahouses.

Permits: Applicable Annapurna Conservation Area and trekking registration requirements must be confirmed before departure.

Altitude and Acclimatisation: Proper acclimatisation is important, particularly when approaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.

Weather Conditions: Mountain weather can change quickly. Snowfall, rain, and poor visibility may affect trail conditions and trekking schedules.

Fitness and Preparation: Trekkers should be prepared for several hours of walking daily, including steep stone staircases, uphill sections and downhill trails.

Insurance: Appropriate travel insurance covering trekking at the planned maximum elevation and emergency helicopter evacuation is strongly recommended.

Responsible Trekking: Respect local culture, minimise waste, follow designated trails and support local mountain communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high is Annapurna Base Camp?

Annapurna Base Camp is situated at approximately 4,130 metres above sea level.

How many days are required for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

A typical package takes around 7–12 days, depending on the route and whether Kathmandu and Pokhara travel days are included.

Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners with reasonable physical fitness and adequate preparation can undertake this trek. A gradual itinerary and appropriate acclimatisation are important.

What is the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp?

Spring and autumn are generally the most popular seasons because of favorable trekking conditions and mountain visibility.

Can Annapurna Base Camp be combined with Ghorepani Poon Hill?

Yes. The two treks can be combined into an extended itinerary, allowing visitors to experience the famous Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Is a trekking guide necessary?

A knowledgeable local guide is strongly recommended for navigation, cultural understanding, altitude awareness and assistance throughout the journey.

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Fantastic people, great experience, very easy My friend and I were recommended Sherpa climbing by someone who had used them previously. The whole experience from our end was very easy, we reached out to Phanden and let him know what we wanted to do. From…