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Duration
14 Days
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Difficulty
Medium
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Max Elevation
4,130m
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Group Size
2-8 Person
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Accommodation
Tea House/Lodge
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Start/End
Kathmandu airport / Kathmandu airport
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Destination
Annapurna Region
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Best Season
Mar - May and Sep - Nov
Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC): Discover Nepal’s Spectacular Mountain Views
Renowned among outdoor enthusiasts, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers an ultimate trekking experience. It immerse the awe-inspiring mountain vistas, cultural immersion, and a glimpse into traditional Nepali village life.
Also known as ABC in short, This trek introduces trekkers to a pristine ecosystem and showcases Mother Nature at its finest. Despite Being relatively easier compared to other high-altitude treks in Nepal, the Annapurna trek includes thrilling experiences and breathtaking scenery. It covers including gushing waterfalls, terraced fields, lush rhododendron forests, and iconic mountain panoramas.
The trek culminates in the base camp surrounded by towering peaks such as Machapuchare, Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Hiuchuli, and more.
This trek introduces trekkers to a pristine ecosystem, allowing them to witness Mother Nature at her finest. Although considered relatively easier compared to other high-altitude treks in Nepal, it is equally diverse. The journey to Annapurna Base Camp is consists with thrilling experiences. It challenging yet rewarding climbs, and panoramic landscapes. Along the way, trekkers encounter gushing waterfalls, sparkling rivers, and suspension bridges, which add to the adventure. The trail is offers with lush rhododendron and oak forests, providing both shade and a colorful display during the blooming seasons.
Best Time to Trek
The optimal seasons for the ABC Trek are from mid-September to November (autumn) and March to May (spring). These periods offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons, enhancing the trekking experience.
Avoiding Crowds
For those preferring quieter trails, trekking during winter (December – February) is recommended. Although mornings are chilly, daytime temperatures are comfortable with mostly clear skies, ensuring excellent visibility.
Monsoon Considerations
While the ABC is suitable all year-round, the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, clouds, and potential hazards like slippery trails and landslides. This period is not ideal for clear mountain views but may appeal to wildlife enthusiasts due to increased animal activity.
Trip Highlights
- Spectacular Mountain Vistas: Experience awe-inspiring views of towering peaks including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), and Hiuchuli, among others, from various vantage points along the trek.
- Cultural Immersion: Encounter traditional Nepali villages and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Gurung and Magar communities. Experience warm hospitality and learn about local traditions.
- Diverse Landscapes: Trek through diverse landscapes ranging from lush rhododendron forests and terraced fields to rugged mountain terrain and glacial moraines.
- Annapurna Base Camp (ABC): Reach the base camp nestled at 4,130 meters amidst the amphitheater of majestic peaks. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants.
- Natural Wonders: Explore natural wonders such as gushing waterfalls, serene alpine lakes, and the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
- Wildlife and Flora: Encounter diverse wildlife and flora endemic to the region, including colourful rhododendrons blooming during spring, enhancing the scenic beauty of the trek.
- Seasonal Highlights: Witness the splendour of blooming rhododendrons in spring (March to May) and clear skies with excellent visibility in autumn (September to November).
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning landscapes, sunrise views over the Himalayas, and unique cultural moments, making this trek a photographer's paradise.
Annapurna Base (ABC) Camp Trek ~ Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu.
- Maximum Altitude: 1,350m
- Accommodation: Standard Three Star Hotel
Upon your arrival at the airport, a team member will be there to greet you and facilitate your transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Thamel, centrally located in Kathmandu, is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, featuring a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops offering authentic Nepalese goods and trekking equipment. This vibrant area offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and prepare for your adventure.
During your stay in Thamel, you will also have the chance to meet our guide. They will be available to address any questions or concerns you may have regarding your upcoming Annapurna Base Camp trek. This initial meeting is designed to ensure you are fully prepared and informed before embarking on your journey into the Himalayas.
Day 2
Kathmandu to Pokhara (Tourist Bus).
- Maximum Altitude: 822 m
- Travel Time: Approximately 7 Hours
- Accommodation: Standard Three Star Hotel
Start your day by waking up early and savouring breakfast at the hotel before preparing to depart for Pokhara. You’ll embark on a scenic journey by tourist bus, passing through mountains, rivers, temples, and quaint villages along the way. Upon reaching Pokhara, settle into your hotel accommodation. If you’re up for it, take some time to explore the lakeside vicinity. You’ll be spending tonight at a three-star hotel conveniently located at Pokhara Lake.
Day 3
Pokhara to Nayapul (Drive) then trek to Tikhedhunga.
- Maximum Altitude: 1,495 m
- Drive: Approximately 1.5-2 hours
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Trek Distance: 9.2 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
Start your day by waking up early, enjoying a hearty breakfast, and preparing for a long hike ahead. Your destination for the day is Tikhedhunga, which begins with a scenic drive to Nayapul. From Nayapul, your trek kicks off with a brief stop at Birethanti, then leads you through serene bamboo forests, impressive waterfalls, terraced fields, and quaint villages. Passing through Ramghai village, you’ll follow the Modi Khola river upstream until you reach Tikhedhunga, soaking in the picturesque landscapes along the way. This trek promises both natural beauty and cultural immersion, offering a memorable start to your adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal.
Day 4
Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani Trek.
- Maximum Altitude: 2,874 m
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Trek Distance: 12.9 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
The journey to Ghorepani from Tikhedhunga offers stunning views and cultural experiences. Starting with a hearty breakfast, crossing a suspension bridge, and climbing stone steps to Ulleri, a Magar village, sets the tone. A break in Ulleri is followed by crossing streams to Nangethanti for lunch, then onto Ghorepani. Throughout, the Annapurna Himalayan ranges provide a breathtaking backdrop, making it a memorable adventure of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Day 5
Ghorepani to Poonhill (Hike) and Trek to Tadapani.
- Maximum Altitude: Poonhill- 3,210 m , Tadapani- 2,500 m
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Trek Distance: 10.7 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
A morning walk to Poon Hill promises one of the most beautiful experiences of the day. This hill station offers stunning sunrise views of the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After soaking in the memorable sunrise, return to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing on to Tadapani. The trek to Tadapani winds through hills and quiet forests, offering serene surroundings along the way.
Day 6
Tadapani to Chhomrong.
- Maximum Altitude: 2,170 m
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Trek Distance: 9 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
On this day, you’ll trek to Chomrong village, a gateway to the Annapurna region, where you’ll encounter Gurung communities. The journey involves a gradual descent through rhododendron forests, crossing suspension bridges, and passing by lush crop fields. The trail then winds through dense forests where you might spot diverse wildlife. Upon reaching Chomrong village, you’ll be greeted by breath-taking views of Machapuchhre, Nithchuli, and the towering Annapurna South, creating an unforgettable scene right before your eyes.
Day 7
Chhomrong to Dovan.
- Maximum Altitude: 2,600 m
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Trek Distance: 8.6 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
Today, begins with bidding farewell to Chomrong as you embark on the journey to Dovan. The trek involves descending approximately 2,500 stone steps and crossing a suspension bridge over the Chomrong River. From there, you’ll navigate rocky terrains until reaching Sinuwa village, passing through dense forests en-route to Kuldhar at 2,380 meters. Continuing further, the trail leads down to bamboo forests and gradually descends to Dovan, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 8
Dovan to Deurali.
- Maximum Altitude: 3,230 m
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Trek Distance: 7.7 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
Today’s journey continues along a damp path cutting through dense bamboo groves. The gentle rustling of bamboo leaves provides a soothing soundtrack as you trek. The trail winds through enchanting rhododendron forests on the way to Deurali. Passing by the Himalayan Hotel, you’ll ascend past Hinku Cave, and soon arrive at Deurali, where you’ll spend the night.
Deurali is nestled in a narrow gorge surrounded by towering cliffs and adorned with cascading waterfalls, creating a dramatic and picturesque setting for your stay.
Day 9
Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
- Maximum Altitude: ABC – 4130 m , MBC – 3712 m
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Trek Distance: 7 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
On this day, you’ll finally reach the most awaited Annapurna Base Camp following the riverbed along the steep trail. The views of the Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Annapurna, Gangapurna, and others are beautiful. We’ll pass through the forest and hike for two hours to get to the Annapurna Base Camp. Before we reach ABC, we will traverse the Machhapuchre Base Camp. Seeing the inter-dimensional perfection of the Annapurna massif is breath-taking. The view of the 10th highest peak in the world right in front of us is fantastic.
Day 10
Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo.
- Maximum Altitude: 2,310 m
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
- Trek Distance: 16.7 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
After a delightful stay at ABC, it sounds like you’re continuing your journey along the Modi Khola towards Bamboo. The lodges and tea houses nestled among the mountains must provide a serene and peaceful ambiance. The fresh mountain air and tranquil surroundings are sure to create a memorable experience. Enjoy every moment of your adventure!
Day 11
Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda.
- Maximum Altitude: 1,780 m
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Trek Distance: 8.5 km
- Accommodation: Tea house
Continuing along the Khuldigar path towards Chomrong sounds like an amazing journey! The Sheep experimental farm and the sight of large herds of sheep must be quite an interesting highlight of your trek. And those splendid rhododendron clusters in red, yellow, and white hues must add vibrant colours to your surroundings amidst the green forests.
And how wonderful to rejuvenate at Jhinu Hot Spring after a long hike! Natural hot springs are perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a day of trekking. Enjoy every bit of this rejuvenating experience amidst the beauty of nature!
Day 12
Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, then Drive to Pokhara.
- Maximum Altitude: 822 m
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Trek Distance: 8.5 km
- Accommodation: Standard Three Star Hotel
Following the trail along the Modi Khola back to Pokhara sounds like a peaceful conclusion to your trekking adventure. Bypassing the villages of Siwai along the way adds to the cultural and scenic experience of your journey.
Afterwards, a relaxing two-hour drive will bring you back to Pokhara, where you can unwind and reflect on the beautiful memories of your trek amidst the mountains and villages of Nepal.
Day 13
Pokhara to Kathmandu (Tourist Bus).
- Maximum Altitude: 1,350m
- Travel Time: Approximately 7 Hours
- Accommodation: Standard Three Star Hotel
After breakfast, we set out on our journey back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The route takes us through scenic landscapes and allows us to soak in the natural beauty of Nepal one last time before we return to the bustling city. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we settle in for the night, reflecting on our adventures and experiences during our trip.
Day 14
Final Departure.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some leisure time after breakfast to further explore Kathmandu. A team member will accompany you to the airport a few hours before your departure, ensuring a smooth transition as you carry unforgettable memories from your Annapurna Base Camp trek. As your trusted travel partner, Nepal Royal Tourism Holiday Pvt. Ltd. (www.nepalroyaltreks.com), we are grateful for the opportunity to have shared this extraordinary journey with you. Until we meet again, travel safely!
Annapurna Base (ABC) Camp Trek Fixed Departures Dates
Trip Cost Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Airport Pick-up and Drop-off by Private Car
- Standard Three star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (includes bed and breakfast).
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner throughout the trip.
- Accommodation (Mountain Tea house Lodge) with Breakfast.
- Experienced trekking Guide and porter according to your group size.
- Ktm-Pkr-Ktm by Private A/C Car.
- Pokhara - Siwai - Pokhara private Suv.
- Annapurna Conservation Area TIMS and entry Permit (ACAP).
- Lodging and food, salary, insurance, transportation and equipment for Guides and Porters.
- Trekking Duffel bag & sleeping bag.
- Our company T-Shirt that will be complementary
- Certificate of trekking completion.
- All the government taxes.
Cost Excludes
- Any other expenses (including hot and cold drinks, mineral water, alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, toiletries, and any other personal expenses).
- Lunch and Dinner Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guide and porter (optional but expected).
Trip Photo/Video Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
The optimal trekking seasons are from mid-September to November (autumn) and March to May (spring). These periods offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons, enhancing the trekking experience.
The trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves daily trekking of 5-7 hours on varied terrain, including ascents and descents. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but no technical climbing skills are required.
Altitude sickness can be a concern as you ascend to higher altitudes. It’s essential to acclimatise properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually. Your guide will monitor your health and provide guidance on symptoms and prevention.
Essential items include trekking boots, warm clothing layers (including a down jacket), trekking pants, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, a sleeping bag, a headlamp or flashlight, and personal toiletries. Pack light but include items for changing weather conditions.
Yes, travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation, medical expenses, and trip cancellation is highly recommended. Ensure your insurance policy covers trekking up to the altitude of Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters).
ATM facilities are limited along the trekking route. It’s advisable to carry enough Nepali Rupees in cash for your entire trek, including accommodation, meals, and any additional expenses.
You will need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits are obtainable in Kathmandu or Pokhara and are essential for entry into the conservation area and registration purposes.
