Annapurna Base Camp trek
Trip at a Glance
-
Country: Nepal
-
Trip grade: Moderate
-
Destination: Annapurna region
-
Activities: Trekking
-
Accommodation: Hotels/Lodges
-
Meals: Full-board on trek
-
.png)
Transportation: Private vehicle or Local Bus
-
Maximum altitude: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
-
Group size: 2 pax min
-
.png)
Best Season: Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the best trekking adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal that takes you to the base of Mt. Everest. Mt. Annapurna is the 10th highest peak in the world. It’s one of the most popular treks in Nepal, with it’s primary highlights being it’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, and challenging terrain. Upon reaching the Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers will be awestruck by the 360-degree mountain panorama of the majestic peaks like Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machapuchhre (6,993 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m).
The trekking trail that leads to Annapurna Base Camp is trekking along lush green forests of rhododendrons, rice paddies, terraced farmlands, and small mountain villages. Other highlights of the trek include observing the local culture and tradition of Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Lobas communities as you hike along, relaxing in natural hot springs, and witnessing spectacular Himalayan views.
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is considered a moderately graded trek with some steep ascents and descents, though no technical climbing skills are required. One should have a good level of fitness, and with better acclimatization, this trek is achievable.
Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from Pokhara with a drive to Kimchi and a trek to Ghandruk. The trail then proceeds through dense forests, traditional villages, and terraced farmlands. The trail is filled up with a wide array of flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, Himalayan goats, and birds such as the colourful Danphe pheasant. As the trek moves ahead, the views become more awe-inspiring, and the terrain becomes more rugged.
You will be trekking in one of the most beautiful trekking regions in Nepal and finally reach the Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, where a majestic Himalayan panorama awaits.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a rewarding trekking experience in the Himalayas suitable for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a truly unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlight
- Visit the lakeside city of Pokhara.
- Witness a stunning close-up view of the Annapurna ranges, Mt. Fishtail, & other peaks.
- Dazzling waterfalls and lush green rhododendron woodlands.
- Witness two 8000-meter peaks: Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) & Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m)
- Access to the sacred Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Ghandruk is a typical Gurung community beautiful village.
- Amazing natural hot spring in Jhinu Danda.
What are the key highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is preferred for its spectacular natural beauty and cultural diversity. It is one of the most popular and picturesque trekking routes in Nepal which combines a diversity in landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and astonishing Himalayan views.
1. Stunning Mountain Views
The trek offers stunning sweeping views of the Annapurna Massif, which includes Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and other majestic peaks.
From Annapurna Base Camp, the views of the sunrise and sunset are especially amazing.
2. Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) 3,700 meters
A picturesque stop before Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) at 3,700 meters offers stunning close up views of Machhapuchhre ‘Fishtail’ and the surrounding peaks including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna..
3. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) 4,130 meters
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a natural amphitheater surrounded by snow-capped peaks. ABC is an amazing glacier basin which offers a distinctive bowl-shaped landscape. The final stop on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). You will get 360° Mountain Panorama of towering peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Gangapurna (7,455m). Sunrise & Sunset are majestic from ABC with the golden glow of the sun reflecting off the snow-capped peaks.
4. Diverse Landscapes
The trek passes through a range of environments, including as alpine meadows, terraced fields, bamboo woods, and thick rhododendron forests. The visual attractiveness of the trek is enhanced by the contrast between these sceneries.
5. Cultural Encounters
Trekking through traditional Gurung villages gives you a chance to explore the hospitality and culture of the area. One of the trek's pleasant aspects is getting to know the friendly people and discovering more about their way of life.
6. Hot Springs at Jhinu Danda
After days of hiking, many trekkers choose to stop at Jhinu Danda for a soothing dip in the natural hot springs, which offers a much-needed break. The body is revitalized and fatigued muscles are relaxed by the warm, mineral-rich waters. Trekkers can easily access the hot springs because Jhinu Danda is a frequent stop along the trekking path. At the end of the Annapurna base camp trip, it is frequently added as an additional activity.
Best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp trek can be done throughout the spring (March to May) as well as the autumn (September to November) seasons. These months bring clear skies, mild temperatures, and stable weather patterns, so it is the ideal time to trek in the Annapurna region. The trek's beauty improves immensely, as the spring season is a particularly popular time. The rhododendrons are blooming quite fully then.
However, the autumn season is less crowded than the spring season but stunning views of the surrounding mountains can also be witnessed. Because trekking trails can be slippery and dangerous due to the region's heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to August), avoiding this time is the best idea.
Annapurna Base Camp trek accommodation
The majority of the accommodation options along the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek are mountain lodges popularly known as teahouses offering basic meals and lodging. You will find rooms typically basic, with two single beds or a double bed. Although bedding is typically provided, it's normally advised to bring your own sleeping bag for added warmth and hygienic reasons.
Bathroom and toilet facilities differ at different locations. While some teahouses have common squat toilets, others may have attached restrooms with Western-style toilets. Some teahouses offer hot showers, however availability can vary and costs may differ, particularly as you go to higher elevations.
Meals are served in the communal eating areas at most of the teahouses. In addition to other alternatives like noodles, soups, and eggs, Nepali cuisine like dal bhat (lentil soup, rice, and veggies) are frequently served at meals. Eating only cooked food and drinking only purified water is highly advised. Additionally, dining places are communal spaces where trekkers can socialize, mingle, and warm up.
How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is widely considered to be moderately challenging. It involves rigorously trekking through diverse terrains and potentially encountering harsh, high-altitude conditions, including dense forests, wide valleys, and steep ascents. A sufficient level of fitness and enough endurance are required for the trek, but no technical climbing skills are needed.
One needs to acclimatize to the altitude properly gained each day. Also, slow walking at a similar pace is recommended to prevent altitude sickness. Annapurna Base Camp trek is generally doable for most reasonably fit people, assuming they have both the right training along with preparation before the trek’s departure.
Annapurna Base Camp trek distance
It's important to understand that the distance of the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek can vary slightly based on the route you choose. The trip up to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is roughly 110 kilometers (68 miles). The round-trip distance from the starting location near Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp and return is included in this figure.
There are both uphill and downhill portions in the walk, which can greatly affect how far away and challenging it seems. Daily distances can alter from day to day, with some days requiring lengthier treks. You hike for six hours and ten kilometers every day on average. At Annapurna Base Camp, the trek reaches its highest point at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
- Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Kimchi (2.3 hrs) & trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/2 hrs)
Drive by private vehicle from Pokhara to Kimchi is 40 km which takes about 2.3 hours. Trek from Kimchi to Ghandruk (1,940m) is roughly 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), and takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m/5 hrs)
The trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2,170m) is approximately 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) taking five hours.
- Day 05: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2600m/5 hrs)
From Chhomrong to Dovan (2,600m) hike is 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) which takes five hours.
- Day 06: Trek from Dovan to Deurali (3200m/5 hrs)
From Dovan to Deurali (3,200m) is 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) and takes five hours.
- Day 07: Trek from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m/3-4 hours)
It’s 4 km (2.5 miles) from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC, 3,700m) taking three to four hours hike.
- Day 08: Trek from Machhapuchchre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m/2-3 hrs)
The distance from Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC, 4,130m) is around a 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) which takes two to three hours.
- Day 09: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m/6hrs)
From Annapurna Base Camp (ABC, 4,130m) to Bamboo (2,310m) is about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) taking six hours hike.
- Day 10: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda ( 1780m/6 hrs)
It’s approximately 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m) taking six hours hike.
- Day 11: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Syauli Bazaar & drive to Pokhara (822m/3-4 hrs) 2-3 hrs drive
From Jhinu Danda to Syauli Bazaar (1,220m) is 8 kilometers (5 miles) taking three to four hours hike. Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara is approximately 40 km taking 2–3 hour drive.
Annapurna Base Camp trek permits price
The Annapurna region is protected under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). The project has been playing a significant role in both environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. ACAP aims to preserve the Annapurna region's varied wildlife and plants. Preserving forests, wildlife, and other natural habitats is part of this. ACAP seeks to minimize the adverse effects of tourism on the environment and indigenous cultures.
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is inside the ACAP region, so an entry fee is required known as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees. Annapurna Conservation Area permit fee is NPR 3,000 (which is roughly equivalent to $25-$30 USD)
Besides ACAP fees, there’s another permit applicable called Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. TIMS was designed as a system to monitor and track trekkers in Nepal, primarily for safety and security purposes. The fee is NPR2000 which is equivalent to about US$17.
Annapurna Base Camp trek altitude sickness
Although it is generally thought to be less severe than on treks like the Everest Base Camp journey, altitude sickness is a serious concern on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. Acute mountain sickness (AMS), often known as altitude sickness, is a condition in which your body finds it difficult to adjust to the lower oxygen levels at higher elevations. The elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) on the ABC trek is high enough to cause AMS in certain people.
The typical signs of altitude sickness are headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping. To avoid altitude sickness during ABC trek is to ascend slowly so that your body has time to adjust. Don’t rush while trekking. There should be enough rest/acclimatization days especially at higher altitudes.
Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. Maintain your energy levels by eating a balanced diet. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol as these might trigger altitude sickness. You should pay attention to your body and be mindful of any symptoms and let your guide or other hikers know about them. If your symptoms are severe, descend down right away.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Drive or fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6-7 hrs)
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Kimchi (2.3 hrs) & trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/2 hrs)
Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m/5 hrs)
Day 05: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2600m/5 hrs)
Day 06: Trek from Dovan to Deurali (3200m/5 hrs)
Day 07: Trek from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m/3-4 hours)
Day 08: Trek from Machhapuchchre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m/2-3 hrs)
Day 09: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m/6hrs)
Day 10: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda ( 1780m/6 hrs)
Day 11: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Syauli Bazaar & drive to Pokhara (822m/3-4 hrs) 2-3 hrs drive
Day 12: Drive or fly to Kathmandu from Pokhara (6-7 hrs)
Day 13: Final Departure
Arrive in Kathmandu and one of our representatives will receive you and then transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the time is free to explore the city where your hotel is located which is usually at Thamel – the popular tourist hub in Kathmandu where every needs and facilities for the tourist are located like hotels, pubs, restaurants, departmental stores, trek gear shops etc. Or you can simply rest at your hotel if you are jet lagged and get ready for an amazing Himalayan trek.
Early in the morning drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara in a tourist bus. The journey takes you through scenic landscapes, offering glimpses of rural life, terraced fields, and stunning views of the Himalayas (weather permitting). The drive is around 200 kilometers (125 miles) long and usually takes between 6 to 7 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. You can also drive by a private vehicle.
The bus will finally arrive at the tourist bus park in Pokhara and you will check-in hotel in Pokhara. The rest of the time is rest at hotel or you are free to explore Pokahra if you wish.
Option: You can choose to either take a private vehicle for Kathmandu/Pokhara overland drive or fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu (25 minutes flight)
You start your walk from this small village, which is reached after a two and a half hour drive from Pokhara. Ascend the well constructed stone stairs to Ghandruk, a typical Gurung village inhabited by valiant Gurkha troops. Look about the village. You may visit a lot of interesting locations, such as the Gurung Museum. Additionally, a Buddhist monastery is close by. Engage with the locals and become fully immersed in their mountain culture. Savor breathtaking views of the Annapurna range.
Resuming our trek from Ghandruk, we embark on the uphill route to Ghandrukot for about an hour and then take an immediate descent to the Kimran Khola (river). Surrendering to the frequent ups and downs along the route, we make yet another ascent from Kimran Khola, after which we are gifted with a comfy walk for about an hour. Pleasure is short-lived; hence we again have to take a steep ascent to eventually reach Chhomrong, which is the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, and lies tucked at the very base of Himal Chuli. Gurungs are the main inhabitants of Chhomrong and it is the last permanent settlement in the valley.
Trailing along the Modi Khola (river), we kiss goodbye to the inhabited foothills of Chhomrong. We the cross a suspension bridge and head to Sinuwa Danda. From here, we embark on a seemingly flatter trail picketed with rhododendron bushes alongside and make an ascent to Khuldighar. What a bumpy trek it is!! The route again slides very steeply down a rocky bank, then to our relief, flattens out, running through bamboo bunches and rhododendron forests, finally getting us to Dovan.
Making a trivial ascent through the bamboo bunches and thick rhododendron forests up the side of gorge, we start our fifth day. We continue our way forward as we pass by the Himalaya Hotel and cross the small bridges over two different streams. As we traverse through some solitary places through the forest, we might get a chance to spot some wild lives like pigs, deer and rarely, snow leopards. Climbing further to the Hinko cave (3100 m), we approach Deurali.
A bit tough day for us compared to the hikes we have had so far! But we needn’t worry so much as the toil definitely pays off when we get to behold the mesmerizing site of Fishtail Mountain. Commencing our trek to the Machhapuchchre Base Camp, we make our way up a river bed and then follow the steep route alongside the mountain. It is important that we be on our toes as we move ahead because this happens to be an avalanche zone and a slight wind and rain could leave us stranded and secluded within the mountains! As said earlier, although the hike is comparatively scratchy, we will be compensated by the soothing vistas of Mt. Himchuli, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Gangapurna and the very classic, Mt. Fishtail.
This 2 -3 hrs of trek takes us through the trail that sans vegetation and we can see the snow streams here and there. We follow the wide route into the Annapurna Sanctuary and then ascend a few huts alongside a moraine which gets us to the base camp of Annapurna. From here, we can relish the unobstructed mountainous panorama of Annapurna, Himchuli and Machhapuchchre. This region gets the nomenclature of “Annapurna Sanctuary” as it is fortified from all sides by the mountainous hoop of Annapurna range. Besides, it is regarded to be sacred as there is a belief that it happened to be the dwelling place of many deities. This region receives seven hours of sunlight a day and hence has a diverse eco -system.
Thank god, the ascents are all over and now we will get set to make our way back following the downhill routes through the Machhapuchchre Base Camp, Deurali and Dovan till we arrive at Bamboo. On the way, we get to relish the views of waterfalls, Mt.Fishtail and Himchuli.
From Bamboo, we continue our descent to Jhinu Danda via Sinuwa and Chhomrong. The Annapurna Base Camp trek continues back through beautiful rhododendron forests down to Sinuwa. From Sinuwa, the trail leads us slightly upward to the lower Chhomrong. We then trudge up a thousand stone steps to upper Chhomrong and then wrap up the day’s trek making a final relieved descent to Jhinu Danda.
We walk for three to four hours from Jhinu along the right bank of the Modi Khola (River) to Syauli Bazaar, which marks the finish of our trek. Among the best and most tranquil walks of the entire trek, today's stroll qualifies. We are going to take a little break in Syauli Bazaar. Before long, we head to Pokhara via Naya pul which is 2-3 hours journey.
After breakfast drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara by a tourist bus retracing the same highway route which you took earlier. Upon reaching Kathmandu, check-in hotel and the rest of the time is free to explore or rest. In the evening is Farewell Dinner at one of the authentic Nepali Restaurant with a cultural show.You can also drive by a private vehicle.
Option: You can choose to either take a private vehicle for Pokhara/Kathmandu overland drive or fly to Kathmandu from Pokhara (25 minutes flight)
The trip concludes and our office representatives will take you to the international airport in Kathmandu to catch your onward flight to your next destination or fly back home. You need to be at least 3 hours prior to your flight time at the airport.
Thank you for visiting Nepal and we hope your Himalayan Holiday has come true. Have a safe flight back home!
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop services.
- Kathmandu/Pokhara/Kathmandu transfers by a tourist bus or private vehicle (Option: Flight)
- Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu & Pokhara with breakfast as per itinerary.
- All trekking accommodations with Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner at local lodges.
- Four seasonal sleeping bags (to be returned after trip completion) & Marron Treks duffel bag
- Pokhara/Kimchi& Syauli Bazaar/Pokhara transfers by private vehicle.
- A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the trekking guide)
- Experienced Government licensed English Speaking Guide & Porter (1 porter for two people) including their food, accommodation, salary & insurance.
- Permits for Annapurna Conservation Area and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
- Farewell dinner with Nepalese cultural program.
- All government and local taxes.
What is not included?
- International airfare.
- Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (USD30 for 15 days)
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
- Other expenses of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower etc.)
- Personal trekking equipment.
- Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
- Tips for guides and porters (Tipping is expected).
Route Map
Trip Info
Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 4- or 5-star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (4-star), Hotel Manaslu (4-star), Radisson (5-star), Yak & Yeti (5-star), or similar. During the trek, you will be accommodated in a local mountain lodge, better known as Tea House. These lodges and teahouses provide good services and are equipped with basic amenities. We will endeavor to provide you with the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.
Meals
We never compromise the quality of food or the health of the trekkers as well as the crew members. Generally, we opt for the fresh and nutritional local community food available. You could make your delicious pick from an array of traditional foods like sweet potatoes, buckwheat barley, etc. This way, you could not only get a real sense of the local culture and life patterns but also contribute to promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Besides, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian, and Indian cuisines like pizza, spaghetti, French fries, soups, breads, masala curry, etc. are also available in the restaurants for your retreat.
Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is a serious risk while trekking in the Himalayas. It's important to acclimatize properly by spending a few days at lower altitudes before heading higher. By spending time at lower altitudes before pushing higher, your body has time to adjust. Our trekking packages have enough acclimatization days planned where you'll be spending a day or two at lower altitudes, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Electricity & drinking water
For an additional cost, you can use the electricity in all tea houses and lodges to recharge your batteries. The lodges have packaged mineral water for sale, or you can fill your bottle with boiling water. To make water drinkable, you can use water purification tablets too. But, due to hygienic issues, you should avoid drinking water from taps, rivers, or wells in trekking areas.
Communication
At lodges, restaurants, and hotels, Wi-Fi is available for an additional fee in the most popular trek regions, like Everest and Annapurna. However, at high elevations, phone calls are the only means of connection. Our office in Kathmandu is in constant communication with your trek guide. In Kathmandu, you can purchase a local SIM card for communication purposes. At high elevations, the mobile signal might not be as strong, though.
Luggage
Our porters are paired with one trekker for every two hikers, and one porter can safely carry 30 kg maximum weight. Therefore, we advise you to fill your duffle bag not more than 15 kg with your belongings. You may carry a small backpack with your valuables and informational documents. The things you are not taking along on the trek can be stored in a hotel in Kathmandu free of charge.
Typical Trek Day
Mostly your trek day starts with breakfast at 7-8 am, followed by a 3-4 hour morning trek. Lunch break is around an hour, then you continue trekking to your destination for the day. After reaching the teahouse lodge, you can relax, explore nearby areas, and enjoy dinner at 6-7 pm. Evenings involve socializing, a trek briefing, and leisure activities before bed.
Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. Having travel insurance with you makes your trip secure and hassle-free.
Our Guides
Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you can actually connect with nature, culture, and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides who are very well-versed in the culture, life patterns, and every single detail pertaining to the trek region you are traveling in. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining but also equally informative.
Porter and Staff Care
When it comes to high-altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitudes are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. All our field staff are covered by insurance.
