Overview

  • Duration 11 days
  • Max Altitude 4130m/ 13550 ft.
  • Group Size 2-10
  • Best Season Sep-Nov, Mar-May
  • Per Day Walk 06-07
  • Accomodation Hotel / Teahouse
  • Start/End KTM / KTM
  • Difficulty Moderate
  • Trip Type Solo / Group /
  • Location Annapurna Region

Annapurna Base Camp trek, otherwise known as ABC trek, is one of the most unique and high-altitude treks. This popular trek provides you a lifetime opportunity of stunning views of snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna Range and the other Himalayas. This trek is a must-do for those who are looking for an adventure-filled holiday in Nepal.

Many trekkers choose this route as a shorter and cheaper alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek.

During the 11 days long day trek, you enjoy the best mountain landscape while treading through the stone steps. At times you climb uphill and sometimes follow the steep ascents towards the base camp of Mount Annapurna.

During the Annapurna Basecamp Trek, you pass through the diverse terrain of Annapurna Sanctuary, exploring the lush green and beautiful forest. Passing through the wooden bridges or suspension bridges above the fast-flowing white water rivers mesmerizes you even more. Similarly, you can choose to exchange conversations with the locals while walking or having a small break in between at the tea house along the trail.

During ABC’s famous and most trekked path, you can view the Annapurna range up close. The stunning view of Mount Annapurna accompanies throughout the ABC trek. While passing through the Annapurna Conservation Area, you can enjoy the various flora and fauna.

Start of ABC Trek

Annapurna Basecamp trek starts from the capital city – Kathmandu. Then, we take one of the comfortable tourist buses or a jeep to Pokhara and stay overnight. The next day trekking to Annapurna basecamp starts as we head to Nayapul from Pokhara. We then trek to Jhinu Danda and pass Dovan to reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). The trail then continues towards the popular Annapurna Base (ABC).

End of ABC Trek

While returning from Annapurna Base Camp, we walk along the same trekking route until Chomrong. However, from Chomrong, we turn our path towards a quaint village of Ghandruk. Ghandruk is a Gurung village that lies near the Annapurna sanctuary. It is a perfect place to relax after completing your trek.

If you prefer some more walk, you can wander around Poon Hill then return to Ghandruk before bidding farewell to the fantastic ABC trekking route. After that, we head back to Nayapul, Pokhara, and Kathmandu, following the trail.

What can I expect during the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking?

During the trek, as we walk past through green forest of Annapurna Sanctuary, you get to see some of the magnificent views of these famous mountains. The local people maintain the trekking trails, making it easy to explore the region. The trekking routes are very safe, and there are no chances of getting lost.

The scenery becomes more dramatic and breathtaking as you ascend higher towards the Annapurna basecamp. As you ascend higher to the top, you will be able to see the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Himchuli(6111m), Annapurna South(7219), Tent peak, Machhapuchhre alias Fishtail(6933m), Annapurna III(7555m) and Ganga and Purna (7454m).

Upon completion of the trek, you will cherish the beautiful views the Annapurna trekking region has to offer and, above all, the hospitality of its people.

Documents Required

Government issued identification:

Carry a valid proof of identification issued by the government for identification. It could be your passport, driving license, or citizenship certificate.

Trekking Permits:

ACAP Permit:

To enter Annapurna Conservation Area, you need a permit from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project office.

TIMS Permit:

Alongside the ACAP permit, you need a TIMS permit as well. To get a TIMS permit, you must submit a copy of your passport and two passport-sized photographs. Note, TIMS card is non-transferable and non-endorsable.

You can obtain a TIMS card in various locations.

    1. Nepal Tourism Board offices located in Kathmandu and Pokhara;
    2. TAAN Secretariat located in Maligaon; and
    3. TAAN Secretariat in Pokhara.

Mountain Routes arranges the customers required permits (ACAP and TIMS).

Travel Insurance:

We advise you to cover your holiday with travel insurance. In addition, it would be best to consider taking out comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, cancellation, baggage loss/theft, and emergency repatriation.
The risks of trekking at a high altitude are significant. Therefore, it is essential to note that most standard travel insurance packages do not include high-altitude trekking.

It would be best if you had travel insurance when you are trying to tackle such a feat, and the travel insurance has to cover activities such as hiking in a country like Nepal.

Over the decade, we have witnessed trekkers airlifted due to altitude sickness or injury. Unfortunately, the cost of a helicopter rescue can be overwhelming on your budget. So unless you can afford that, be sure to get suitable cover.

Includes

  • Local Guide
  • Airport Pickup and Private transfer to hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • All trek permits (Annapurna National Park Permit and TIMS)
  • Overland transfer to and from trekking start and end point.
  • Lodge accommodation during trekking.
  • All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during trek.
  • Only Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • One porter for 2 trekkers.
  • Basic First aid kit.
  • Farewell Dinner.

Excludes

  • Visas and travel insurance
  • Food in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Bottled drinks and beverages
  • Evacuation (will be done in your account)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters
  • Single supplement Charges
  • Laundry, Phone services, Personal Expenses
  • Add-Onn trips
  • Tea breaks, chocolates or other snacks
  • Delay and cancellation because of natural phenomenon
  • International flights to Kathmandu

10 things to carry on Annapurna Base Camp Trek

1. Water Bottle:

There are water streams on the way, but the seemingly clean water doesn’t get carried out. Drinking untreated water can spoil you trekking to the amazing scenery of Mt Annapurna.
Carry enough water for the entire duration of your trek. Even though you buy water bottles at tea houses, we recommend carrying your own medicated water.

2. Camera and Batteries:

A good camera is essential as it helps you capture those special moments you cherish for your lifetime. But running low on power would be the most disappointing of a lifetime. Hence, it is always handy to have extra batteries for your camera.

3. Sunscreen and Sunglasses:

Wear sunscreen lotion to protect yourself from sunburn. Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. Especially during April, walking on long stretches of snow exposes you to direct sunlight. Such long exposures for long-duration might lead to snow blindness.

4. Power bank:

It is wise to carry a power bank to charge your devices. It is because you get to charge your devices and electronic items in tea houses most of the time. However, with the surge in the trekkers, you might not charge as required. Also, if the power socket is different than the one you need for your device, the power bank is your last resort.

5. Trekking poles:

Trekking Poles are handy when walking uphill. These Poles help you stabilize yourself and prevent falls. You may also use them as walking sticks. Trekking poles take the stress off your joints. It frees your arms for some exercise to help keep your hands from swelling while you’re gaining elevation.

6. First aid kit:

A small first aid kit may be helpful for minor injuries. Include bandages, gauze (or cotton balls), medical tape, and a compression bandage if you’re going trekking.

7. Money belt:

We advise you to carry money in a money belt. Unfortunately, the ATM facility is not available in the Annapurna sanctuary trek. Hence, we advise you to carry cash.

8. Gaiters:

Wear gaiters to protect your legs against thorny bushes or other sharp objects. You can get comfortable gaiters from the shops at Thamel.

9. Medication:

You must take all of your prescription and over-the-counter medicines on the trip. Similarly, bring along any other medication you need. If you don’t bring them with you, there will be no way to get them needed during the trek.

Likewise, we suggest carrying medications for upset stomachs or diarrhea. You may also want to carry some painkillers if you get a headache or backache.

10. Toilet paper and Hand sanitizer:

Since Nepalese people don’t use toilet paper, there won’t be any available trekkers. However, if you want to use some toilet tissue during your trip, there are plenty of places where you can get it. Also, if there isn’t any soap available at the communal sink, then it’s a good idea to bring some hand sanitizer just for cleaning up afterward.

As we ascend higher, the comfort of an indoor toilet is non-existent.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Map (Itinerary)

  • Day 1 :

    Arrival at Kathmandu (1400m/ 4600 ft.)

  • Day 2 :

    Kathmandu to Pokhara (827m/ 2713 ft.)
    Distance: 210 km / 130 miles
    Time: 06 -07 hrs drive

  • Day 3 :

    Pokhara to Nayapul to Jhinu Danda (1780 m / 5,840 ft.)
    Distance:   8.5 km /  5.29 miles
    Time: 01 hrs drive / 06:00 hrs walk

  • Day 4 :

    Jhinu Danda to Dovan (2505 m / 8218 ft.)
    Distance: 13.7 km / 8.5  miles
    Time: 08:00 hrs walk

  • Day 5 :

    Dovan to MBC (3700 m/ 12139 ft.)
    Distance:  13 Km / 8.1miles
    Time: 07:00 hrs walk

  • Day 6 :

    MBC to ABC and back to Dovan (2505 m/ 8218 ft.)
    Distance: 18.8 km / 11.68 miles
    Time: 09 hrs walk

  • Day 7 :

    Dovan to Chhomrong (2174 m/ 7146 ft.)
    Distance: 11.2 km / 7 miles
    Time: 04-05 hrs walk

  • Day 8 :

    Choomrung to Ghandruk (1940m/ 1205 ft.)
    Distance:  7 km / 4.35 miles
    Time: 05:00 hrs walk

  • Day 9 :

    Ghandruk to Nayapul to Pokhara (827m/ 2713ft.)
    Distance: 8.6 km / 5.3 miles
    Time: 03 hrs walk / 1:00 hrs drive

  • Day 10 :

    Pokhara to Kathmandu (1400m/ 4600 ft.)
    Distance: 210 km / 130 miles
    Time: 06 -07 hrs drive

  • Day 11 :

    Depart Map

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp trek Itinerary (Detailed)

  • Day 1 : Arriving at Kathmandu

    The day you arrive in Nepal at Tribhuwan International Airport for Annapurna Base Camp Trek, representatives from Mountain Routes will pick you up from the airport and drop you at your respective hotel.

    Once you freshen up, we explain your trekking schedule and routes, along with the necessary preparations to make for the trip.

    After the orientation session, you can rest a while in the hotel or head out to explore the beautiful city of Kathmandu.


  • Day 2 : Kathmandu to Pokhara (827 m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hours

    On the second day of our Annapurna base camp trekking, we start from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a tourist bus or a jeep. It takes about 6-7 hours to reach Pokhara.

    Upon reaching Pokhara, we visit some prominent attractions in Pokhara like Fewa Lake, Shanti Stupa, Davis Falls, etc. At night, you can enjoy strolling around the beautiful Fewa Lake Side.


  • Day 3 : Pokhara to Jhinu Danda (1770 m) Trip Duration: 6 hours

    The third day begins with traveling to Jhinu Danda from Pokhara. We take a jeep to Birethati via Naya Pul. It takes about an hour or so to reach Naya Pul. From Naya Pul, we start our trek to Birethati. It takes us half an hour to reach Birethati from Naya Pul.

    The trail from Birethanti then follows a gentle trail along the newly constructed motorable trail. Then, we reach a high suspension bridge connecting Jhinu Danda and Simroong. The thrill it offers is gratifying while walking on the suspension bridge. Crossing the bridge, we step forward to Jhinu Danda, where lies the excellent natural hot spring on the bank of river Modi.

    We stay overnight at Jhinu Danda.


  • Day 4 : Jhinu Danda to Dovan (2600 m) Trip Duration: 8 hours

    Today’s trek from Jhinu Danda to Dovan will be a bit stretchy. The trail follows many ups and downs along the way. Close and fantastic view of Mt Fishtail, Annapurna South, Himchuli along the way makes it easier to complete the trek. Mesmerizing natural beauty, turbulent Himalayan river, local people of the region, and their lifestyle, adds beauty to the trek making it more meaningful. Leaving Choomroon, Sinwa, and Bamboo behind, we finally reach Dovan in the evening.


  • Day 5 : Dovan to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) (3700 m) Trip Duration: 7 hours

    We start early and follow the trail on day fifth of our Annapurna region trek. Upon reaching Deurali (3200 m), we will behave lunch. After lunch at Deurali, the journey continues where we cross a narrow gorge of Mt. Machhapuchhre on the right side and Himchuli and Annapurna South on the left side.

    The stream flowing down from the Annapurna Base Camp produces a beautiful melancholy that makes walking enjoyable. We stay overnight at Mt. Machhapuchhre Base Camp.


  • Day 6 : MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (4130 m), back to Dovan Trip Duration: 7-9 hours

    Day six of our Annapurna Base Camp trekking starts from MBC to Annapurna Base Camp.

    This day is one of the best days of our whole trek. We enjoy the views of the mighty Himalayan range from the base of Mt Annapurna up close and tall. The thrill of the trek is all about the panoramic view of the Himalayas around us, including mount Himchuli, Annapurna South, Tent peak, Fishtail. Annapurna III, Ganga and Purna, and many more including, mighty Annapurna I and others, can be enjoyed with great pleasure.

    After spending some time in the Annapurna Base Camp, we return to Dovan for an overnight stay, following the same trail we used while going up.


  • Day 7 : Trek from Dovan to Choomrung (2170 m) Trip Duration: 4-5 hours

    Today, on the 7th day of our trekking in Annapurna region Nepal, we follow the trail from Dovan to Chomrong. It takes about 4-5 hours and is a steep climb downhill. So, it can be a bit stretchy on the legs. Chomrong is a small village that resides on the hillside and provides a fantastic view of Mount Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. After reaching Chomrong, we can enjoy the view and roam around the village. Overnight at Chomrong.


  • Day 8 : Trek from Choomrung to Ghandruk (1940 m) Trip Duration: 4-5 hours

    Our 8th day of the Annapurna region trek is an easy climb down with only about 200 meters difference in elevation. It takes us about 4-5 hours to reach Ghandruk from Chomrong. First, we need to cross the Kimrong Khola and climb the Kimrong Danda. You can witness the fantastic scenery of the Annapurna range that accompanies us along the way. After crossing the Chomrong pass, we reach Ghandruk, staying overnight.


  • Day 9 : Ghandruk to Nayapul to Pokhara Trip Duration: 3 hours + 1.5 hours

    We trek from Ghandruk to Naya Pul and then drive back to Pokhara. You can enjoy the stunning view of the sunrise Gurung village of Ghandruk. To view the sunrise, we make sure you wake up before sunrise.

    After sunrise and some breakfast, we gradually descend to Naya Pul. They descend from Ghandruk to Nayapul, the last one of our Annapurna Base Camp trek. Upon reaching Naya Pul, we head back to the beautiful city of Pokhara via jeep. It will take us about one and half hours.


  • Day 10 : Pokhara to Kathmandu Trip Duration: 6-7 hours

    We return to Kathmandu via roadways on the tenth day of our Annapurna region trekking. It will take us about 6-7 hours. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will drop you off at the respective hotels. Rest of the day, you can enjoy the nearby destinations exploring the beautiful city of temples. You don’t want to miss to shop some souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

    We suggest you not miss Thamel’s nightlife.


  • Day 11 : Departure

    Today is our last day of the Annapurna region trekking, and the same day, you will be heading back home. Our representatives from Mountain Routes will pick you up from your hotel and drop you at the airport.

    We will share our goodbyes and wish each other luck for the coming days. You will then board the flight with nothing but beautiful memories and the best experience.


Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where can I leave my stuff in Kathmandu when I go to Annapurna BaseCamp?

    We suggest you carry only the essentials. You can leave your extra belongings at your hotel in Pokhara, Kathmandu, or our office.

  • When should I start preparing for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

    It’s always better to start planning the trek as early as possible. The earlier you begin, the more time you have to prepare yourself physically and mentally.

    If you are new to the Himalayas, we recommend starting your preparation six months before your trip. It gives you enough time to get used to the altitude and weather conditions.

  • How challenging is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

    Annapurna Base Camp is considered a moderate trek, so no previous experience is required. However, most of the trek involves a long duration trail that goes up and at times steep ascents too.

    If you have a problem with the ankle, then be cautious.

    Also, weather plays a vital role when you are trekking. It can snow on the trails if you go in mid-winter. Instead of crampons, carry micro spikes and carry lightweight to give you the confidence to trek.

  • What kind of accommodation do I get during this trek?

    We provide you with basic accommodation during the trek. We accommodate you in a sharing room with a mattress and a blanket/quilt. In addition, we can offer you sleeping bags if needed.

    Most teahouses or guest houses provide accommodation with a western flushing toilet. However, you can expect squat toilets outside the room in the higher elevation.

  • What sort of meal/food can we get during the trek?

    The tea houses or the guest houses are the places to eat. You can order from the menu provided by the business.

  • What is the best way to get the drinking water during the trek?

    You can buy a water bottle that is safe to drink or refill the water available in tea houses for an extra payment.

  • Is there only one guide or porter for trekkers, or will both be on the trip?

    One porter will carry luggage ( max 15kg in total) of two trekkers and one guide.

  • What are the chances of High Altitude sickness during the ABC trek?

    Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you to 4130m / 13550 ft high, so there are chances of high altitude sickness depending on every individual. For example, if you feel shortness of breath, dizziness could be the symptom of High Altitude sickness. Therefore, we recommend you not push yourself but rest and adjust to the altitude in such cases.

  • What level of fitness is required to reach Annapurna Base Camp?

    Though Annapurna Base Camp Trek doesn’t require any special skills or experience, people who want to enjoy nature at its best must be physically active and keep themselves healthy. As a result, you may need to walk longer distances than usual during the hike.

  • What is the weather like in the Annapurna Base Camp?

    The weather in the Annapurna Base Camp is quite windy and snowy. You can find somehow different weather types in as per the season. We have listed what you encounter during each season apart from some exceptions.

    • Autumn (mid-September to end-November) peak season for the trek.
    • Winter (End-November to March).
    • Spring (Mid-March to May) peak season for the trek.
    • Monsoon (June to mid-September).
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