Arrival on

Kathmandu Airport
Accomodation

Teahouse/Hotel/Lodge
Maximum Altitude

Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m / 13,550 ft)
Best season

Mar-May & Sep-Nov
Group Size

1 to 20 (maximum)
Transportation

Overland
Tour type

Trekking/Hiking

Overview

Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp is an amazing experience in Nepal’s Annapurna region. The tenth-highest peak in the world, Mt. Annapurna, rises to an astounding 8,091 meters at its base camp, which is reached by trekkers.

You will enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, a protected natural wonderland, as you begin this trip. The route provides a wonderful sensation of altitude difference, taking you from charming lush rhododendron forests to picturesque towns tucked away among terraced farmlands.

Seeing various plant and animal species in their native environments is one of the trek’s highlights. The route offers an amazing view of the Himalayas, including peaks such as Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Machapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), and Annapurna I (8,091 m).

Apart from the breathtaking scenery, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek provides a delightful window into Nepalese customs and culture. Engaging with ethnic communities such as the friendly Magar, Gurung, and Thakali will enable you to thoroughly experience the native customs and culture.

The tranquil atmosphere of the area is further enhanced by the soothing sound of pristine mountain rivers and waterfalls as you approach the Annapurna Base Camp. Filled with the aroma of pine and wildflowers, the chilly mountain air creates a distinct sensory experience.

As you venture farther into the Himalayas, you may even come across uncommon creatures like the Himalayan tahr, langur monkeys, and a variety of colorful bird species.

The connections that form amongst hikers along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are one of its special features. Joking and laughing over campfires in the evenings under a starry sky are the building blocks of enduring friendships.

For those seeking a lengthier adventure, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be converted into the Annapurna Circuit Trek, allowing you to explore more of this interesting region.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 11 Days

Amazing views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South Annapurna I, Khangsar, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhare
Amazing view of the mountains at sunrise from Annapurna Base Camp 4130M
Arrive at the breathtaking Annapurna Sanctuary, encircled by captivating peaks.
Tourist hub Pokhara
Pretty villages and farmland at Ghandrunk
Discover the regional traditions, customs, and the friendly hospitality of the Nepalese people.
Uncover diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat
Insight into rural Nepali life

Day 1 :

Arrival at Nepal's Capital: Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)

Our agent will meet you at the airport in Kathmandu with a traditional flower garland and take you to the hotel that you have reserved in advance. You will meet your guide for a thorough trek briefing regarding the forthcoming journey after checking in and getting ready.

Wander around the busy streets of Thamel in the evening. You can stop by one of the many cafés and restaurants for a meal or do some last-minute shopping. At Destination Guru, we work hard to ensure that your journey to Annapurna Base Camp is unforgettable from the very beginning.

Day 2 :

Road Trip to Pokhara (820 m / 2,690 ft), west of the Kathmandu Valley

Highest Altitude : Pokhara (820 m / 2,690 ft)

Trek Duration : 6-7 hrs

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After filling up with a healthy breakfast, we'll board the charming tour van and go to Pokhara. Awe-inspiring sights of the rushing Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers await you as we travel west of the Kathmandu Valley.

We drive via picturesque villages and verdant hills as we go. We'll pause for a little bite so we can talk to the people before moving on through quaint villages that are graced with little springs.

By late afternoon, we will arrive at Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside town encircled by the Annapurna range. After settling into our accommodation, go around peaceful Fewa Lake to unwind. For the upcoming adventurous adventure, let the mountain breeze blow your troubles away!

Day 3 :

Drive from Pokhara (820 m / 2,690 ft) to Nayapul / Syauli Bazaar / Kimche (1,784 m / 5,853 ft), Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m / 6,365 ft )

Highest Altitude : Ghandruk (1,940 m / 6,365 ft)

Trek Duration : 1 hr drive & 4-5 hrs walk

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following an energetic breakfast, we will travel an hour from the lakefront of Pokhara to Nayapul, where our trip will formally begin. We'll put on our hiking boots and follow the verdant banks of the Modi River, passing through soybean fields and rice paddies.

Along the route, we'll get to see glimpses of the diverse cultures of the Tamang, Gurung, and Magar people who live in quaint villages like Birethanti.

We will finally climb to Ghandruk, the traditional Gurung settlement. We have ample time to see the Gurung Museum and discover the customs of the area. You can drink ginger tea in a teahouse and take in the seductive splendor of the Annapurnas.

Day 4 :

Trek from Ghandruk (1,940 m / 6,365 ft ) to Sinuwa (2,310 m / 7,579 ft)

Highest Altitude : Sinuwa (2,310 m / 7,579 ft)

Trek Duration : 5-6 hrs

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We'll go towards Sinuwa today after enjoying breakfast while admiring the terraced slopes of Ghandruk. The path descends to bridge the Komrong Khola after progressively ascending via a series of villages to Chhomrong Danda.

After that, we'll ascend the stone steps that lead to Chhomrong, a bustling Gurung settlement that serves as the entrance to Annapurna Sanctuary. We will descend to the river once more and then climb through rhododendron forests to our goal of Sinuwa today. Appreciate the captivating vistas of the Himalayas.

Day 5 :

Trek from Sinuwa (2,310 m / 7,579 ft) to Deurali (3,200 m/ 10,500 ft)

Highest Altitude : Deurali (3,200 m/ 10,500 ft)

Trek Duration : 6 hrs

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We'll head uphill to Upper Sinuwa after a filling breakfast, with vistas of the Annapurna range to our north. After emerging into a clearing, we'll descend sharply through bamboo thickets at the base of the rocky gorge's slope.

As the journey continues, we'll pass through Tomo's expansive pasture. We'll progressively climb till we spot far-off peaks over grazing cattle, arriving at Deurali around afternoon. The final destination before reaching Annapurna Base Camp is Deurali.

Day 6 :

Trek from Deurali (3,200 m/ 10,500 ft) to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 m/12,139 ft)

Highest Altitude : Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft)

Trek Duration : 5 hrs

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We've all been looking forward to this day, our successful climb up to Annapurna Base Camp! After a reviving breakfast and saying farewell to Deurali, we'll proceed on the arduous but worthwhile ascent to Bagar.

We will continue to climb, stopping often to allow for acclimatization, until we reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m). The Annapurna range spreads majestically before our eyes from this vantage point; it is a sight that will never be forgotten.

After that, we'll climb up to ABC, which is at 4130 meters, to finish our high-altitude mission! Securing a comfortable spot at the campsite beneath the majestic ice-capped peaks of Annapurna South, we will commemorate our exceptional achievement.

Day 7 :

Trek from Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,550ft) to Bamboo (2,310 m / 7,578 ft)

Highest Altitude : Bamboo (2,310 m / 7,578 ft)

Trek Duration : 7 hrs

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We will relish the sunrise vista over the magnificent mountains as we awaken before the first rays of dawn touch the peaks. After a substantial breakfast, we quickly retrace our steps through hazy clouds, passing Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

We pass Dovan, the Himalaya Hotel, and Hinko along the way. We will eventually make it to Bamboo for our overnight stay.

Day 8 :

Trek from Bamboo (2,310 m / 7,578 ft) to Jhinu Danda (1,760 m / 5,774 ft)

Highest Altitude :Jhinu Danda (1,760 m / 5,774 ft)

Trek Duration : 6 hrs

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We'll take the same route that leads out of the bamboo forest to Chhomrong after breakfast. We'll go beyond Khuldighar through calm rhododendron trees and bamboo thickets, passing teahouses bustling with hikers.

When lunchtime arrives, we will continue downward through the forest on our way to Chhomrong. We will eventually reach the serene Jhinu Danda hot springs by detourning from the main track.

Let the thermal waters here in the middle of nature heal your tiredness while you relax amidst lush terraces.

Day 9 :

Trek from Jhinu Danda (1,760 m / 5,774 ft) to Jhinhu Bridge (1,150 m / 3,773 ft), then Drive to Pokhara (820 m / 2,690 ft) via Nayapul (1,050 m / 3,445 ft)

Highest Altitude : Pokhara (820 m / 2,690 ft)

Trek Duration : 1 hr walk & 2 hrs drive

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We'll say goodbye to the Jhinu Danda and follow the Modi Khola downstream on a gently graded dirt trail on the last day of the walk. After a relaxing three hours walking along the river, via terraced farms, we will arrive at Siwa, our final experience of village life.

Here, our vehicle will pick us up and take us on a picturesque trip back to Pokhara through the foothills. Arriving in Pokhara by late afternoon, toast your accomplishment with a traditional Nepalese meal beside the placid Fewa Lake.

Day 10 :

Drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)

Highest Altitude : Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)

Trek Duration : 6-7 hrs drive

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Say goodbye for the last time to the Annapurna sanctuary this morning before boarding a tourist bus that will take you down a breathtaking roadway to Kathmandu. Take in the sights of rushing rivers and lush valleys as we make our way back to the bustling capital.

Day 11 :

Final Departure

Meals : Breakfast

When your thrilling voyage across the Himalayas comes to an end, our representative will take you to the airport so you may catch your flight home.

We hope that your experience gave you amazing mountain views, enduring friendships, and lifelong memories. I hope the essence of the high Himalayas remains engraved in your heart for eternity!

FAQs

Expand all

What is so captivating about Annapurna treks?

Annapurna treks provide a comprehensive experience of Nepal. It offers a peak into diverse Nepali landscapes, cultures, and altitudes, making them a perfect introduction to the country.

How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Depending on the precise itinerary chosen and the pace of the trekker, the trek lasts anywhere from 7 to 12 days.

Is this trek difficult?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is generally considered easy to moderately challenging, depending on your fitness level. The highest point is 4,130 meters at the Annapurna Base Camp.

What permits are required for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are required. These permits can be acquired in Pokhara or Kathmandu.

What is the lodging like during the Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Lodging will be in lodge-to-lodge arrangements, typically with twin-sharing rooms equipped with essentials. However, we suggest you carry a sleeping bag for warmth.

Do I require travel insurance for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

Yes, it is strongly advised to get travel insurance for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It offers crucial protection against unforeseen occurrences like medical emergencies, journey interruptions, or evacuations due to accidents or illness. Having complete insurance provides you with financial security and peace of mind while on your adventure.

I am a vegetarian. Will I get enough vegetarian food during the trek?

Yes, vegetarian food is available and recommended for hygiene reasons in the trek regions.

Is there clean drinking water available on the trek?

There are teahouses and lodges along the trekking path where you can buy bottled water. Using water filtration techniques is an environmentally responsible and affordable way to reduce plastic waste and save money. Filling your reusable water bottle from streams and taps by carrying water purification tablets or a filter ensures clean and secure drinking water access.

Can I hire trek gear in Nepal?

You can purchase trek gear in Kathmandu at reasonable prices, and there are shops where you can hire trek gear. We can introduce those shops to you.

Is Wi-Fi available in the trek regions?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available at hotels/tea houses/lodges, but you may need to pay a small fee.

Can I do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with children or as a family?

Yes, families and children are welcome to participate in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. However, it’s crucial to take into account your kids’ ages and physical capabilities. Younger children could require carrying or the use of a sturdy child carrier. Trekking organizations can offer family-friendly accommodations and itineraries, ensuring a secure and pleasurable trip for the entire family.