Annapurna base camp tek
At a Glance
  • Duration11 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max. Altitude4,130 M
  • Group Size01-16
  • Trip StyleWalking & Hiking
  • StartsKathmandu
  • EndsKathmandu
  • Best TimeAll the year
Highlights
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a captivating journey that takes you to the heart of the Annapurna region in Nepal. 
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek provides an up-close spellbounding mountain view of the majestic Annapurna peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other surrounding peaks. 
  • Walk along a trekking trail that takes you to the village of the brave Gurkhas, especially the village of the Magar people.
  • The trail leads through lush rice paddies, enchanting rhododendron forests, and high-altitude landscapes.
  • The trek concludes at the Annapurna Base Camp, where you’ll stand in awe of the towering 7,000 and 8,000-meter peaks.
A well-liked trekking route that takes you right into the heart of Nepal's Annapurna region is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or ABC Trek. The allure of the walk is its picturesque paths that wind through verdant woods and rice terraces before progressively rising to the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp, situated at an astonishing 4,130 meters above sea level. Hiunchuli (6,441 meters), Machapuchhre (commonly known as the Fishtail, at 6,993 meters), Annapurna I (8,091 meters), and Annapurna South (7,219 meters) are just a few of the world's highest mountains that can be seen from the journey. The hike ends with a sunrise view over Fishtail Mountain and includes a stop in Ghandruk, renowned for its stunning views of Hiunchuli and Annapurna South. The Annapurna region is abundant in both natural resources and culture.
The name of the culturally and environmentally diverse Annapurna region comes from the Sanskrit phrase "The Goddess of Harvests." Ascending through tropical jungles, hikers come to experience snow-covered peaks as their backdrop. Trekking offers breathtaking views, cross-cultural interactions, and a sense of achievement. Regardless of your level of experience level, this is a trip that will never be forgotten.
The second-best trek in Nepal is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which is frequently listed among the World's Best Ten Treks. It has every kind of peak you could desire to see, including Annapurna I, the tenth-highest mountain in the world, and provides vistas of the eight-thousanders one after another. Every component—from isolated locations to breathtaking walking routes—is essential to the realization of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Hikers arrive at Fishtail Mountain's base just before dawn to see the first rays of sunlight that turn the entire mountain golden. One should not miss the vista of the group of mountains from the base camp. It is only the greatest; in fact, it might even be superior to everything else.

Exploring to Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

The route to Annapurna Base Camp Trek is quite different from Annapurna Circuit but both routes lie in the ACAP areas project. Starting from Nayapul, we head towards the villages of Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and finally to the base camp itself. On our way back, we resort to the hot springs available in Jinudanda for a natural hot bath. The duration of the ABC trek varies based on the chosen route. It might take 6 to 7 days with the direct route covering approximately 80 kilometers. The trek can extend up to 12 days if combined with other trails like the Annapurna Circuit, Poon Hill, or Mardi Himal. The trail is accessible from several starting points, and the most common one is from the beautiful lakeside town of Pokhara. The trip is graded as moderately difficult and requires 4 to 6 hours of walking every day. You reach an altitude of over 4000 meters when you reach the base camp.  We organize food, logistics, trekking permits, and all necessary transfers for you in this trek. You can relax and just focus on the trekking experience!
How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

This trek is neither physically demanding nor is its trekking route impossible to cover. The path presents both moderate and challenging stretches. The trekking trail features both ascents and descents, and you’ll walk on such a trail at least for one day for a distance of 15 km. This can be difficult for you, but it rewards you with an intimate view of the mountain. The trekking trail is stone-paved. Through such a trail, you reach your destination on time. The entire trek distance would cover 100 km plus, and the highest point you’ll reach during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek exceeds 4000 m. This could be one of the causes of altitude mountain sickness, but rest assured, our trekking guide is equipped to provide immediate medical attention to manage any symptoms effectively.

Ideal Season to Travel to the Annapurna Base Camp 

March, April, and May are the best months for trekking in Nepal because the days are longer and the weather is warmer compared to December, January, and February. Because of the favorable situation, you will have a lot of great outdoor activities to do on your list. One of them is that you will easily access all the popular attractions of the Annapurna region. This is the main reason you visit the Annapurna region, and you do that to see the vistas of the breathtaking Mountain View.  March, April, and May pay you off brilliantly. On the other hand, August, September, October, and November are the months in which you will have a better opportunity to see the crystal view of the mountain. These are also the best months because the monsoon lasts from June to July in Nepal. As a result, the days are clear and beautiful.  The winter weather in Nepal sets in at the end of November. December, January, and February are colder months, but if you can endure the cold and overcome its natural hardships, you will find the trekking trail of the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking less crowded which will give you several advantages on accommodation, privacy, food menu, etc.

Accommodations and Meals during Annapurna Base Camp Trek

On this trek, we adopt a vegan diet, which is beneficial for your health. This diet is rich in carbohydrates and protein, essential nutrients for your muscles and central nervous system. The meals we provide include rice, pulses, curry, potatoes, garlic, and ginger, among other things. Garlic, a local remedy for altitude sickness, is particularly beneficial. A meatless diet at high altitudes aids digestion.
As for accommodation, we recommend lodges. These lodges provide warm blankets, and some even offer attached bathrooms. You can take a hot shower and stay connected with your loved ones via WiFi, available for a nominal fee.

How to book Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Hiking Adventure has brought you this unique itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek with intense planning and detailing. The routes have been carefully planned to cover maximum ground in a short period while ensuring you receive the most efficient and enriching experience.

Guide and Cost for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

A well-informed guide with excellent communication skills will travel along with you so that your journey will be laden with information about the region, its people, and its customs. We have the most competitive cost for the trip along with quality. Hiking Adventure hopes to give you the ultimate experience in Annapurna trekking, as you visit places that will make you fall in love with the simplicity of nature and the serenity of the high mountains.

Safety and Insurance for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Acute Mountain Sickness, or AMS, is a serious risk as we ascend to higher elevations. If you feel headache, fatigue, and restlessness during the trek, you will need to inform your trek leader. After that, measures will be taken to help you feel at ease. In most cases, descending to a lower point and acclimatizing helps. In serious cases, emergency evacuation can be easily organized at your request. Helicopters are used in such evacuations, which can get costly. So, we recommend that you have proper insurance that covers these risks. Apart from that, you will need to stay alert and follow the safety guidelines provided by your trekking leader.

You will arrive at the capital city, Kathmandu. Our representatives will aid you in your transfer to the hotel. Kathmandu is a vibrant city with a large population and where the roots of culture and traditions still run deep. You can visit a few of the beautiful landmarks this city has to offer such as, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and the Basantapur Durbar Square.

  • Max. Altitude:1350m
  • Accommodation:3-Star Hotel / Kathmandu
  • Meals:Welcome Dinner

From Kathmandu, you will have the option to either take a comfortable drive or a short flight towards another major city, Pokhara. Considered to be a tourist hub, this city sees droves of tourists from in and out of the country. Once in Pokhara, you can visit the beautiful Phewa Lake that lies in the heart of the city, with hills overlooking it on all sides. These hills house the Peace Pagoda and a little above the skyline, a beautiful view of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri can be seen.
Note: Private Car drive/ Flights will charge extra. Please contact us if you'd like a private drive or flight.

  • Max. Altitude:825m
  • Accommodation:3-Star Hotel / Pokhara
  • Meals:Breakfast

From Pokhara, you will take a short drive of 2 hours to Nayapul, a small settlement lying in the foothills of great mountains. From Nayapul, a trek of 5 to 6 hours will take you to Ghandruk, a village on an elevation of 2000m inhabited mostly by the Gurung community of Nepal. The trail lies alongside the Mardi River and consists of uphill routes. From Ghandruk, incredible views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre can be seen.

  • Max. Altitude:2000m
  • Accommodation:Tea house / Ghandruk
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You will take a trail from Ghandruk and trek for 6 hours in order to reach Chhomrong. The village of Chhomrong lies at an altitude of 2100m. The trail takes you through narrow hilly unpaved paths, sparsely populated with trees, which open to a wide ridge with beautiful views of lush green hills. The village of Chhomrong lies on the side of a terraced hill, and its skyline offers a beautiful view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.

  • Max. Altitude:2100m
  • Accommodation:Tea house / Chhomrong
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From Chhomrong, a trek of 6 to 7 hours will take you to Himalayan Hotel, located at an altitude of 2850m. The trail will take you through dense forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and oak which is common flora in this region.

  • Max. Altitude:2850m
  • Accommodation:Tea house / Himalayan Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From the Himalayan Hotel, you will trek towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Located at an altitude of 3700m, this Base Camp offers you a beautiful and direct view of Machhapuchhre, which is also considered to be one of the most beautiful mountains in the world due to its twin peaks which looks like a fish’s tail, hence the name- Machhapuchhre. Along with Machhapuchhre, you will see a panoramic view of Annapurna I, Annapurna South and Himchuli. Overnight in Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

  • Max. Altitude:3700m
  • Accommodation:Tea house / Machhapuchhre Base Camp
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

rom Machhapuchhre Base Camp, you will trek directly to Annapurna Base Camp. The view from Annapurna Base Camp is considered to be one of the best, which includes views of massive mountain peaks of the Annapurna Ranges, such as Annapurna I, Annapurna South and so on. During the winters, the grassy slope where the base camp lies is covered in snow. Such a view coupled with small Chorten with fastened colorful prayer flags is incredibly serene. You will also trek back towards the village of Sinuwa, through forests of oak and rhododendron with occasional views of Machhapuchhre.

  • Max. Altitude:4100m
  • Accommodation:Tea house / Sinuwa
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You will take a relatively shorter trail of 4 to 5 hours in order to reach Jinudanda from Sinuwa. You will trek along the Madi River Valley which draws its name from the river that runs across it. Located at an altitude of 1200m, Jinudanda is actually famous for its natural hot springs which helps you take away fatigue and stress in your body due to stress.

  • Max. Altitude:1200m
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From Jinudanda, you will trek back towards Nayapul, once again following the course of Madi River. From Nayapul, you will take a short drive back towards the city of Pokhara. In the evening, you can choose to explore the city and its lifestyle in the Lakeside area which mostly caters to tourists.

  • Accommodation:3-Star Hotel / Pokhara
  • Meals:Breakfast & Lunch

You have the option to take a comfortable drive to take a flight from Pokhara back to the capital city, Kathmandu. Once in Kathmandu, you can choose to explore the city, its streets and its culture which provides a unique ambiance.

Note: Flight to Kathmandu will incur extra charges.

  • Accommodation:3-Star Hotel / Kathmandu
  • Meals:Breakfast & Farewell Dinner

Congratulations! Your trek has come to a beautiful end. Our representatives will aid you in your departure. We hope that you have had a wonderful time and will join us in the future for such treks and expeditions once again.

  • Meals:Breakfast

Route Map

Service Details

Includes
  •  Airport pickups and drops via a private vehicle
  •  3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
  •  Tea-house accommodation during the trek
  •  All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
  •  Welcome and farewell dinners
  •  Ground transportation Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu on an air conditioned tourist bus.
  •  An experienced, English-speaking and licensed trek leader
  •  Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  •  Salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation of staff
  •  Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
  •  Duffel bag, t-shirt and trekking maps
  •  All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP, TIMS)
  •  First Aid kit (carried by your trek leader)
  •  All government taxes
Excludes
  •  Nepal Tourist Visa fee
  •  International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  •  Excess baggage charges
  •  Lunch/dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  •  Travel and rescue insurance
  •  Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  •  Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)
Essential Information

Packing list for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek 

  • A torch: If the power goes out in the middle of the night. 
  • Backpack
  • Water filter: Any water filter because there are various water taps along the route where you can refill water, and it is also environmentally beneficial.
  • Waterproof and sturdy boots
  • Sunglasses
  • Hiking Poles: Sustains the climb while passing through steep terrain.
  • Lightweight mittens (Windproof Gloves): This would prevent cold freezing hands and make high altitude viewing points more enjoyable.
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Shampoo and soap: In case the lodge fails to provide these
  • Thermal Layer
  • Towel
  • Camera and portable charger
  • Mosquito spray
  • Sleeping Bag: In Ghorepani, it will get chilly, so use summer sleeping bags with blankets.
  • Waterproof/ Windproof dress (Jackets, Shirts)
  • Snacks: Prices rise as you ascend, so it’s better to stock up on hiking snacks.
  • Rehydration salts/electrolytes: Dehydration is possible at altitude, so bring some electrolytes.
  • Poncho/raincoat

Annapurna Base Camp Trek-12 Days FAQs

  • You can customize the trip. That means you can budget the trip accordingly. You can travel the Annapurna region on a decent budget. The region has a range of accommodation options from a budget lodge to mid-range to high end. You might not find the accommodation in the mountain luxurious but you will have everything that you will need for a night like the bed, pillow, blanket, and form. Some rooms even have attached bathrooms. There is a fireplace in the dining hall of a lodge. Enjoy the best fire experience place that you haven’t enjoyed in your home country. For lots of options, contact the CEO of our company.

  • The latter is and will always be on the top of the list. The maximum elevation of the trekking trail of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is 4000 m plus, while that of the Everest Base Camp Trek is 5000 m plus. The Everest region is colder than the Annapurna region. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is easier and shorter than the Everest Base Camp Trek. The flight to Lukla can be delayed or canceled due to bad weather. You always have a high possibility to start the Annapurna Base Camp Trek on time, and you can also complete it on schedule. Annapurna region receives more rainfall than the Everest region during June and July. Nightlife on the mountain during the Annapurna base Camp Trek is the main highlight you will cherish throughout your life. There is no such a night in the Everest Base Camp Trek.

  • Ensure peace of mind through our trekking guides and porters. They know trekking issues because they are aware of and familiar with the region. They also know every solution to every issue you are likely to face during trekking. Since they know how to respond to the unwanted situation in the Annapurna region quickly, they will make your trek efficient. They are always 101% sure that they can run the trek smoothly. You will find them taking care of your securities from beginning to end. As they are well-versed with the trekking trail of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will find them as problem solvers in advance whether it is about the trail you are going to walk or the accommodation you are going to spend your night or the weather that will hinder your progression. One thing is sure, you will become more professional at trekking by trekking with our trekking guides and porters. We guarantee the result by making the Annapurna region safer to travel with our years of experience.

  • Because you will be spending nights at two base camps. They are always rewarding because they are home to mountains. You are in the mountain base camps. These base camps are perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a getaway to the mountains. After you enter the national park, you will have an opportunity to observe the local culture and all the preserved natural attractions of the park, including fauna and flora. Poon Hill, which has a reputation for being a long time charming place for trekkers, lets you have a great experience with the stunning view of the mountains. In your trekking agenda, you will see the exceptional beauty of the mountains like Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and Gangapurna (7,455m). Lamjung Himal, Annapurna South, Annapurna 1 (8,091 m ), Annapurna II, (7,937 m ), and Annapurna III (7,555 m).  

  • Catch the first glimpse of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre from Pokhara itself. The scene is mesmerizing specially from across the Fewa Lake. From Nayapul, the trek officially starts. The first stop, Ghandruk, provides a great insight into life in the hills, and the native Gurung Culture. They are known to be very hospitable, simple and elegant. Enjoy stunning view of the mountains as you move forward. Travel faster between Kathmandu and Pokhara on a domestic flight. Non-natives know Machhapuchhre by it’s nickname – the Fishtail Mountain. This is because the peak starkly resembles the tail of a fish. We will also witness other famous peaks in the Annapurna Range. However, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna dominates the landscape most of the time.

  • It’s easy to get overwhelmed with what to pack during a trek. Generally, you need to have a good pair of trekking boots, windcheaters, a warm jacket, trekking socks, sticks, first aid kit, along with other common trekking gears available in the market to buy and rent.
    You can do this either at your home country or in one of the trekking shops in Thamel . We provide free assistance in buying/renting these accessories if you are in Nepal. It’s good to have a water filter opposed to buying bottled water. If you have any questions, you can always contact us.

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