Annapurna Base Camp Trek
A classic 14-day Himalayan trek into the Annapurna Sanctuary, reaching 4,130m surrounded by Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
- Duration 14 Days
- Difficulty Challenging
- Group Size 12 People
- Max Altitude 4130m
- Region Annapurna
Overview
The Annapurna region centers on Annapurna I, the tenth-highest peak in the world, and is known for dramatic valleys, rivers, and Gurung/Magar mountain culture. This trek climbs through farmland, rhododendron forest, and alpine terrain to reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m, ringed by Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South.
Itinerary
-
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the hotel. Evening trek briefing.
-
Day 2 Drive to Pokhara
Scenic drive along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers with hill and mountain views. Free evening at Lakeside.
-
Day 3 Drive to Nayapul & Trek to Tikhedhunga
Drive to Nayapul, then trek along rivers and villages before reaching Tikhedhunga.
-
Day 4 Trek to Ghorepani
Challenging uphill climb through terraced fields and rhododendron forest to Ghorepani, a well-known viewpoint village.
-
Day 5 Sunrise at Poon Hill & Trek to Tadapani
Early sunrise hike to Poon Hill for panoramic Himalayan views, then trek through forest to Tadapani.
-
Day 6 Trek to Chhomrong
Descend through forest before climbing up to Chhomrong, a Gurung village with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
-
Day 7 Trek to Bamboo/Dovan
Descend and climb through forested trail beneath steep cliffs along the Modi Khola valley.
-
Day 8 Trek to Deurali
Continue along the Modi Khola valley through Himalaya and Dovan toward Deurali.
-
Day 9 Trek to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Enter the Annapurna Sanctuary via Machhapuchhre Base Camp, arriving at ABC surrounded by major peaks.
-
Day 10 Sunrise at ABC & Trek back to Bamboo
Witness sunrise over Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding peaks, then descend back to Bamboo.
-
Day 11 Trek to Jhinu Danda
Descend to Jhinu Danda and relax in the natural hot springs by the riverside.
-
Day 12 Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara
Short trek to the road, then a private vehicle transfer back to Pokhara. Evening at leisure by Phewa Lake.
-
Day 13 Drive to Kathmandu
Return drive to Kathmandu with free time for shopping or optional sightseeing.
-
Day 14 Final Departure
Transfer to the airport for departure.
Cost Details
What’s Included
- Trekking route map
- First-aid kit
- Porter service, one per two trekkers, including insurance
- Private transport for Pokhara-Nayapul and Nayapul-Pokhara legs
- Full board meals during the trek
- English-speaking trekking guide, including salary, insurance, meals, and accommodation
- Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu transfers
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast, twin-sharing
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast, twin-sharing
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS card
- Government taxes and service charges
What’s Excluded
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except included hotel breakfasts)
- Personal travel and trekking insurance
- Wi-Fi, drinks, laundry, device charging, hot showers during the trek
- Sightseeing/monument entrance fees in Kathmandu
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver
- Nepal visa fee
Highlights
- Forest trails: Rhododendron and bamboo forest sections with rich birdlife.
- Teahouse comfort: Overnight stays in lodges with local and international food.
- Mountain views: Close views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South.
- Varied scenery: Landscape shifts from farmland to alpine glacier terrain within days.
- Local villages: Traditional Gurung and Magar settlements along the route.
- Poon Hill sunrise: One of the most popular sunrise viewpoints in Nepal.
- Jhinu hot springs: Natural hot springs to relax in after the trek.
- Annapurna Sanctuary: Trek into the natural amphitheater of peaks surrounding the base camp.
Why Choose This Trek
- Well-established route: One of Nepal's safest and best-marked trekking regions.
- Accessible for most fitness levels: Non-technical trail, achievable with normal fitness and preparation.
- Comfortable lodging: Teahouses offer proper beds, food, and hot showers, unlike camping treks.
- Cultural immersion: Passes through Gurung and Magar villages with local hospitality.
- Good value: Strong scenery-to-cost ratio compared with other Himalayan treks.
- Extended acclimatization: 14-day pace gives extra rest and acclimatization days, lowering altitude sickness risk.
Essential Information
Spring (March–May) offers blooming rhododendrons and clear visibility. Autumn (September–November) has the most stable weather and is the most popular season. Winter is cold but quiet; monsoon brings rain and leeches but lush scenery.
Rated moderate. Suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Around 5–7 hours of walking per day, maximum altitude 4,130m, no technical climbing skills required, though good general fitness is recommended.
Teahouse/lodge accommodation on a shared, twin-sharing basis throughout the trek. Basic but comfortable, with hot showers and Wi-Fi available at extra cost in most villages.
Full board meals included during the trek — dal bhat, noodles, soups, momos, pasta, and pancakes are common. Vegetarian options are widely available at teahouses.
- ACAP: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
- TIMS Card: Trekkers' Information Management System card
- Rain jacket: Windproof/waterproof outer layer and trekking pants
- Personal kit: Personal medicines and toiletries
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle
- Trekking boots: Sturdy, broken-in boots with warm socks
- Down jacket: Insulated jacket plus thermal base layers
- Sleeping bag: Often provided by the trekking agency
Acclimatization matters above 3,000m. Drink 3–4 liters of water daily, walk at a steady pace, and watch for headache, nausea, and dizziness as early symptoms of altitude sickness.
