holy-himalaya-eco-trek-logo

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna mountain range of Gandaki Province, north-central Nepal

Tour snapshot

Duration:
14 Days
Min Group Size:
2 persons
Location:
Nepal

Overview

Mount Annapurna (8,091 m) is one of the 10th highest mountains in the world, and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the journey that takes you to the base of the Annapurna massifs.

 

The journey to the base camp of Annapurna takes you through the diverse landscapes, stunning mountain views, and varieties of flora and fauna, including lovely people and their joyful traditional lifestyle. The land mark of the base camp is at an altitude of 4,130 m, offering basic accommodation and food. The majestic peaks of Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Khangsar (7,485 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), and Machhapuchhare (6,993 m) accompany you from base camp or throughout the trek.

 

The trek goes through a gradual variation in altitude and a diverse ecosystem. The journey through the verdant forests adorned with rhododendron, picturesque rice paddies, terraced farmlands, unrivaled mountain vistas, and the rich tapestry of Nepalese lifestyle and culture is truly stunning. 

 

There are plenty of Buddhist shrines, gumbas, and mani where you can soak up the serene atmosphere far from the contemporary settings. This trek is a piece of heaven in the mountains, with stunning waterfalls, white water rushing from the icy glacier, a hot water spring, a bamboo forest, colorful rocks, and many other elements to explore.

Highlights

  • Trek to the base of the world's 10th highest peak.

 

  • Explore diverse landscapes and stunning views.

 

  • Experience Nepalese culture and lifestyle.

 

  • Witness a breathtaking sunrise from Poon Hill.

 

  • Visit Buddhist shrines and enjoy hotsprings. 

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
1.400m.
resize
First of all, you have to come to Nepal. Representatives from our hotel, the Holy Himalaya Hotel, will come to pick you up at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. We’ll give you orientation about the trek after you have settled in the hotel. Explore the colorful bazaar of Thamel.
2
Day 2: A free day in Kathmandu (1,400 m.)
1,400 m.
resize
On the second day, you will be going on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley, which includes visits to Boudha Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Those who have not opted for the sightseeing tour may spend their day self-exploring Kathmandu's ancient city on their own and making necessary purchases for trekking gear, as well as getting some rest before a long trek begins.
3
Day 3: Flight from Kathmandu (1,400 m.) to Pokhara (822 m.), drive to Ulleri (2,050 m.), and trek to Ghorepani (2,874 m.)
2,874 m.
30 mins flight, 3 hours drive and 4 hours trek
resize
We will have an early morning flight to Pokhara. We can witness the majestic mountain chain, which includes Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Mansalu, and Annapurna on the northern snow line, and the lush green Mahabharat range and river valley below or in the southern part, while you are flying to Pokhara. It is just half an hour’s flight, and once we are there at the airport, after that, we will drive to Ulleri for 3 hours. (2,050 m) and start to walk on the lovely green trail to Ghorepani.
4
Day 4: Explore Ghorepani (2,874 m.)and visit Poonhill (3,210 m.)
3,210 m.
3 Hours
resize
This day promises an extravagant treat for sunrise lovers. We will hike up to Poon Hill, perfectly timed to watch the majestic sunrise over the Himalayas. From this viewpoint, over 32 peaks of the Annapurna range, including the Dhaulagiri 8,167 m, Nilgiri 2,637 m, and Machhapuchhre mountains, reveal themselves in all their glory with the unfolding of dawn. Then the famous Poon Hill welcomes us to capture the beauty in our cameras, perhaps to our heart's full content. Following our time on Poon Hill, we descend down to our lodge, where a hearty breakfast is calling us. Energized with energy, we will enjoy the exciting exploration of Ghorepani village, rich in its cultural and traditional atmosphere. Eventually, restful repose in Ghorepani against a serene background concludes our day's itinerary.
5
Day 5: Trek from Ghorepani (2,840 m.) to Tadapani (2,630 m.)
2,840 m.
5 hours
resize
We will make a trek to Tadapani on this day, at 2,630 meters. On the route to Tadapani, we first cross through Deurali at 2960 m, then through Banthanti at 2,100 m while walking on the ridges that wind through the richly forested pines and rhododendrons. Then, as if unfolding, the panorama keeps coming into view, surrounding and embracing us in a breathtaking beauty. The upward trail ends as we reach the picturesque destination of Tadapani for views of the tranquil and awesomely beautiful vista awaiting our arrival.
6
Day 6: Trek from Tadapani (2,630 m.) to Chomrong (2,165 m.)
2,630m.
6-7 Hours
resize
Day nine holds a slight variation depending upon our last night stay; proper breakfast in the morning proceeds on towards Chomrong, situated at an altitude of 2,165 m via Chuile. First, it follows a trail to beautiful Ghandruk Village and steeply moves downward to the Kimron River for a final end in the welcome ambiance of Chomrong. We will pursue striking views of Annapurna South and the major Machapuchhre peak at an altitude of around. Chomrong village, tucked away under the magnificent massif of Annapurna, has long been used as an overnight haven among trekkers heading toward Annapurna Base Camp.
7
Day 7: Trek from Chomrong (2,165 m.) to Dobhan (2,600 m.)
2,600 m.
6-7 Hours
resize
From Chomrong, the journey goes toward Dobhan. In return for our efforts on this route, we get awesomely breathtaking views of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Huinchuli. Uphill ascent for a while, then along the river, on tricky terrain to the top of the edge. The hard climb is compensated by the brilliant scenery around, including the brilliant village of Chomrong. Descending to a bridge, we are faced with another climb to Sinuwa Danda at 2,340 meters, which provides all-encompassing views of the surrounding landscapes and snow-capped peaks. Our path then goes through enchanting oaks, rhododendrons, and pine forests, leading us to Bamboo, nestled amidst bamboo and rhododendron trees beside the Modi River. Finally, a gradual climb through the forest's cool shadows brings us to Dovan, our resting place for the night.
8
Day 8: Trek from Dobhan (2,600 m.) to Macchapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m.)
3,700 m.
6-7 Hours
resize
From the greenery of Dhoban, the trek goes downhill until it reaches a small bridge, from where a short uphill climb leads to Deurali. We then trek along the high current of the Modi River to reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, which is on the north side of the mighty Mt. Machhapuchhre. This serene campsite has a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains, offering a magical view of Huinchuli, Annapurna South, and Annapurna I. Feel the awe-inspiring beauty of these towering peaks with the serenity of the Himalayan landscape.
9
Day 9: Trek from Macchapucchre BC (3,700 m.) to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m.)
4,130 m.
5 hours
resize
Today is considered one more vital leg of our journey northwestward to meet the famed Annapurna Base Camp, also popularly known as ABC. Our trek brings us in close vicinity to the array of the majestic Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu (8,163 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Pisang Peak (6,091 m), and Paungda Danda (4,755 m), not forgetting scores of other peaks measuring 6000 to 8000 meters in height. This day promises to be engraved in our minds forever as we are bewitched by the unparalleled beauty of the snow-capped peaks surrounding us.
10
Day 10: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m.) to Bamboo (2,310 m.)
4,130 m.
7 hours
resize
As we leave Annapurna Base Camp, the trek back down the trail now takes us out of this magical Annapurna Sanctuary and away from the Modi River Valley. The tranquil retreat of Bamboo is our destination for today, where we rest after all the day's adventures. En route, we are presented with breathtaking panoramas of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Singu Chuli (6,501 m), Tharpu Chuli (5,695 m), and other major peaks—a constant reminder of our fantastic undertaking.
11
Day 11: Trek from Bamboo (2,310 m.)to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m.)
2,310 m.
6 hours
resize
After a fulfilling journey from ABC to Bamboo yesterday, we now head to Jhinu Danda today. Today's route starts with a downhill trek to Kimrong Khola and then goes uphill through tranquil forests covered with rhododendrons, bamboo, and oaks, leading us toward our destination. Many people are lured by its exotic charm, and therefore, Jhinu Danda sees thousands of visitors every year. Famous for hot springs, we have been really looking forward to soothing our tired muscles in the waters of the hot spring. We feel this is going to be a therapeutic experience amidst the lush greenery of rhododendron forests and green vegetation, reminding us of the healing power of nature with its tranquil beauty, hence offering a serene conclusion to the trekking adventure.
12
Day 12: Drive from Jhinu Danda (1,780 m.) to Pokhara (822 m.) via Birethanti (1,025 m.)
1,780 m.
5 hours drive
resize
We leave Jhinu Danda today, still on our final day of trekking, and head down the dust road, tracing the right bank of the Modi Khola. This will be a leisurely day, an easy, quiet day to end the trek with. On the other side of the regular trail, there is a beautiful natural hot spring at this icy, cold river, which we can visit and take a bath in as well. After approximately three hours of gentle trekking, I will drive to Pokhara. If you are in a rush to return, you can fly back to Kathmandu on the same day as well. Otherwise, you can add a few days to your trip to explore the beautiful city.
13
Day 13: Flight from Pokhara (822 m.) to Kathmandu (1,400 m.)
1400 m.
35 minutes flight
resize
We begin our last day with an early morning flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, gifting ourselves a scenic flight where we can see the majestic mountain peaks from a bird's-eye view. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we can either go out and rest or use what little energy is left in the tank to hit the streets of this pulsating city. And after ten days of trekking, the rich culture and vibrancy of Kathmandu call, providing just the right opportunity to get soaked up in its charm before bidding farewell to this never-to-be-forgotten adventure.
14
Day 14: International departure or starting a new trip
resize
Our team will see you reach the airport in time for your flight on your last day in Nepal, as per your schedule. You will go back home with all the unforgettable adventures reflected in your heart, having the spirit of Nepal in your heart. Safe journeys, and may your adventures continue wherever you go. Or you can start a new trip.

Included/Excluded

Airport pick-up and drop
All domestic transportation
Accommodation in Kathmandu at star rated hotel (Holy Himalaya Hotel or similar)
Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmanudu
Expenses and insurance of all the trekking staffs
Lunch and Dinner during the trek.
Personal trekking equipment and clothing
Trekker's Insurance
Sight seeing entry fees
Personal expenses
Anything else not mentioned in the inclusion list.

Service Fee Only, Explore Nepal Fully!

Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
annapurna-base-camp-trek

FAQs about Annapurna Base Camp Trek

1. What is the best time of year for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, mountain views are clear, and trekking conditions are ideal. Spring brings blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crystal-clear Himalayan panoramas after the monsoon season. Winter trekking is possible with proper preparation, while monsoon season can bring slippery trails and reduced visibility.

2. How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. You will walk around 5–7 hours daily on stone staircases, forest trails, and mountain paths. While the trek is physically demanding, it is achievable for beginners with preparation and determination.

3. Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the best beginner-friendly Himalayan treks in Nepal. No technical climbing skills are required. First-time trekkers with good physical fitness can complete the journey comfortably with proper pacing, acclimatization, and guidance from experienced trekking staff.

4. What is the highest point on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The highest point of the trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level. From the base camp, trekkers enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and other Himalayan peaks.

5. What permits are required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

You will generally need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and, depending on the trekking arrangement, a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits are required to enter and trek within the Annapurna region. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek will arrange all necessary permits for you, making the process simple and hassle-free.

6. What accommodation is available on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Accommodation during the trek is mainly in tea houses and mountain lodges run by local families. Rooms are generally simple, clean, and comfortable. Lower elevations may offer attached bathrooms, while higher elevations have more basic facilities with shared bathrooms. The warm hospitality of the local communities adds to the trekking experience.

7. What meals are provided during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Tea houses along the route offer a wide variety of meals, including Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal), soups, noodles, pasta, fried rice, potatoes, pancakes, eggs, and bread items. Vegetarian and vegan meal options are widely available, and trekkers can also enjoy tea, coffee, and hot drinks throughout the journey.

8. Are vegetarian and vegan meal options available on the trek?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan meals are easily available on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Most tea houses provide options such as vegetable curry, lentils, rice, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. If you have dietary restrictions, it is recommended to inform us in advance so arrangements can be made accordingly.

9. What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek usually begins from Pokhara, followed by a drive to the trekking starting point such as Nayapul or Jhinu Danda. The trail passes through beautiful Gurung villages, forests, rivers, and terraced landscapes before reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and finally Annapurna Base Camp. Many trekkers also combine the trek with Poon Hill for sunrise views.

10. What is Machhapuchhre Base Camp and do we pass through it?

Yes, trekkers pass through Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. Located at around 3,700 meters, MBC offers stunning close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and acts as an important overnight stop before ascending to ABC.

11. Are hot springs available on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route?

Yes, natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda are one of the highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Many trekkers enjoy relaxing in the warm natural pools after long days of walking. The hot springs are believed to help relax muscles and reduce fatigue.

12. What communication and internet services are available on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Most tea houses along the Annapurna Base Camp route offer WiFi services, though speed and reliability may vary at higher elevations. Mobile network coverage is generally good in many villages, with NTC and NCELL SIM cards working in most areas. However, connectivity may become limited in remote sections.

13. How do I charge my electronic devices during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Electricity is available in almost all tea houses along the route. You can recharge phones, cameras, and power banks for a small fee, especially at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank is recommended for added convenience during the trek.

14. How cold does it get on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Temperatures vary depending on the season and altitude. During spring and autumn, daytime temperatures are usually pleasant, while nights at higher elevations can fall below freezing point. Winter months are much colder, especially around Annapurna Base Camp, so warm layers and proper trekking gear are essential.

15. What makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek unique?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is unique because it combines mountain scenery, culture, forests, villages, and high Himalayan landscapes in a relatively short duration. Trekkers experience Gurung culture, rhododendron forests, waterfalls, hot springs, and a breathtaking amphitheater of snow-capped peaks surrounding Annapurna Base Camp.

whatsapp-icon