Journey to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, where you’ll witness the towering peaks of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli up close.
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an exceptional journey to the heart of the Annapurna Massif, reaching an altitude of 4,130 meters. This trek combines awe-inspiring views of iconic peaks like Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli with cultural immersion in traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
The trail winds through terraced farmlands, lush rhododendron forests, and glacial moraines, offering diverse landscapes at every turn. Known for its moderate difficulty, this trek is perfect for adventurers seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of accomplishment as they stand surrounded by towering Himalayan giants.
Trip Highlights
- Witness a golden sunrise from Poon Hill over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhare.
- Stay overnight at Annapurna Base Camp with stunning 360-degree mountain and glacier views.
- Trek through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, terraced fields, and suspension bridges.
- Immerse in the unique Gurung culture of Ghandruk village and visit its local museum.
- Relax in the rejuvenating natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
- Explore trails rich in diverse flora and fauna within a pristine wilderness.
Annapurna Trek 13 Days Itinerary
Our company representative will receive you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. A private vehicle will shuttle you to the hotel that you've booked. Look for a trip briefing later in the afternoon. Welcome to Nepal!
Take a scenic drive to Pokhara on a comfortable tourist bus, passing through lush valleys, terraced farmlands, and picturesque villages. Enjoy a free evening strolling by Phewa Lake or exploring Pokhara’s laid-back atmosphere.
Unlike Kathmandu's fast-paced energy, Pokhara is a haven for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, including the majestic Annapurna Range, it provides a more laid-back environment with less traffic and fewer crowds.
This day’s trek offers a relatively easy start, with a mix of suspension bridges, scenic villages, and iconic stone steps.
After a 2 to 4-hour journey in a private vehicle, you'll arrive at Birethanti (1,039 m / 3,409 ft), where your trek begins. From here, take a couple of hours to hike to Hile (1,495 m / 4,905 ft).
After a break, continue your trek toward Ulleri, a vibrant Magar village perched at a higher elevation.
Today's trek starts with a steep ascent, offering stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchre, and Hiunchuli. As you continue, the trail winds through rhododendron forests, gradually leading to a ridge. Keep an eye out for Forktails and Kingfishers along the way.
The path ascends gently from Ulleri, passing through Banthanti (2,250 m) and Nangethanti (2,460 m). After about an hour, you'll arrive in Ghorepani (2,840 m), a historic village offering a peaceful and scenic rest stop.
Start the day early with a 1-2 hour hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft), where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise over the high Himalayas, including views of Annapurna, Machhapuchre, and Nilgiri.
After spending 1-2 hours soaking in the views, retrace your steps back to Ghorepani for a hot breakfast. From there, begin your trek along ridges and through pine and rhododendron forests towards Deurali (2,960 m / 9,711 ft). Afterward, descend to Banthanti before continuing to Tadapani.
Start the day with a descent from Tadapani through rhododendron forests to the village of Chuile. After crossing a suspension bridge and a short uphill climb, reach Ghurjung village for a brief rest and interaction with the locals.
Continue to Chhomrong (2,140 m / 7,021 ft), where you can relax and enjoy the views. From Chhomrong, descend to the Chhomrong Khola River and then climb uphill through forests to reach Sinuwa (2,340 m / 7,677 ft).
Today, we begin with a climb to Upper Sinuwa, followed by a steep descent to Bamboo, a scenic spot nestled in a bamboo thicket at the bottom of a gorge.
After resting, we continue along the west side of the river, passing a beautiful waterfall and enjoying the vibrant flora and fresh mountain air as we make our way to Himalaya.
The trail then climbs past Hinko Cave, a natural wonder, before reaching our destination for the night, Deurali.
Today’s trek takes us to the iconic Annapurna Sanctuary, beginning with a climb to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). While climbing Machhapuchhre is prohibited, the base camp offers stunning views of this majestic mountain.
Surrounded by soaring peaks, we enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater of breathtaking beauty. After a final two-hour trek, we reach our ultimate destination—Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m / 13,550 ft). Here, the towering snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range greet us, creating an unforgettable panorama.
Today, the trail is retraced, descending 1,700 m (5,577 ft) to the bank of Modi Khola, reaching Bamboo (2,345 m / 7,694 ft). Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Singu Chuli, Tharpu Chuli, and other surrounding peaks.
The trail is followed back to Chomrong, passing Khuldighar and an experimental sheep farm. The path then continues through rhododendron and bamboo fields.
From Chomrong, the trail descends steeply to Jhinu, a village known for its natural hot springs, perfect for a relaxing soak.
From Jhinu, follow the Modi Khola for 3-4 hours to Syauli Bazaar, the trek’s endpoint. This section offers one of the most relaxing walks of the entire trek. After a rest in Syauli Bazaar, take a drive to Pokhara. The road to Nayapul is bumpy and unpaved, lasting 2-4 hours, but from Nayapul, the paved road makes for a smoother 1-2 hour drive to Pokhara.
Drive back to Kathmandu on a tourist bus, relishing the scenic route one last time. Spend the evening exploring Kathmandu before enjoying a farewell dinner hosted by us.
Our representative will shuttle you to the international airport for your departure. Bid farewell to Nepal with unforgettable memories of your Annapurna adventure.
Includes/ Excludes
Includes
- All land transportation in the itinerary.
- Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara for 4 nights, including breakfast (Private room available at an additional cost).
- Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation during the trek (8 nights total).
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government-licensed English-speaking trekking guides (2 guides for groups larger than 7 trekkers).
- Porters to carry luggage (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, with a maximum weight of 18 kg per porter, i.e., 9 kg per trekker).
- Coordinate rescue operations in case of health emergencies (rescue costs covered by your travel insurance).
- All standard meals during the trek (excluding lunch and dinner if it's in Pokhara and Kathmandu).
- A farewell dinner on your final night in Nepal.
- Annapurna Conservation Area permits and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
- Water purification tablets or filtered drinking water throughout the trek.
- Wages, meals, accommodation, insurance, gear, and medication for all staff, including guides and porters.
- Duffel bag, trekking map, sun hat, Buff (neck gaiter), and a complimentary company T-shirt and cap.
- Trip Completion and Appreciation Certificate upon successful completion of the trek.
- All government and local taxes, administrative expenses, and official fees.
Excludes
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (apart from a farewell dinner).
- International flight costs.
- Nepal entry visa fees (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days; can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport).
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, shopping, snacks, boiled bottled water, cold drinks, hot showers, and alcohol).
- Travel insurance, including coverage for emergency high-altitude evacuation. (We strongly recommend securing personal travel insurance.)
- Tips for trekking staff and drivers.
- Personal trekking gear and equipment.
- Excess baggage charges (limit of 9 kg per person during the trek).
- Additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances, such as landslides, weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, or changes in government policies.
- All other costs not listed in the "Includes" section.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Map
Packing List of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Clothing
- Base Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms (2 sets each)
- Trekking Shirts: Moisture-wicking shirts (2-3), long-sleeve shirts (1-2), short-sleeve shirts (optional, 1-2)
- Trekking Pants: Waterproof pants (1), fleece pants (1), convertible pants (optional, 1)
- Outerwear: Heavy down jacket (1), waterproof jacket (1), fleece jacket (1), windbreaker (optional, 1)
Accessories
- Warm Hat (1), Balaclava (1), Neck Gaiter (1), Sun Hat (1)
- Gloves: Lightweight liners (1 pair), insulated gloves/mittens (1 pair)
- Gaiters (1 pair), Rain Poncho (optional, 1)
Undergarments
- Underwear (7-10 pairs), sports bras (2-3)
Footwear
- Socks: Wool trekking socks (5-7 pairs), sock liners (2-3 pairs), optional compression socks (1 pair)
- Shoes: Hiking boots, camp shoes, microspikes
Eyewear
- Sunglasses (1 pair), glacier glasses (1 pair), spare pair of glasses (optional)
Backpacks and Storage
- Main backpack (60-80L), daypack (25-45L), hydration pack (1.5-2L reservoir)
- Waterproof liner/dry bags, small lock
Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping bag (-18°C/0°F rating), sleeping bag liner, sleeping pad
- Travel pillow (optional), sleeping bag stuff sack
Hydration and Nutrition
- Water bottles (2x 1L) or hydration bladder, water purification tools
- Snacks (granola bars, nuts, dried fruits), electrolyte tablets, instant coffee/tea, milk powder
Personal Care and Hygiene
- Toiletries: Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, quick-drying towel, hand sanitizer
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), SPF lip balm
- Bug repellent, sanitary products (for women), laundry detergent
First Aid and Emergency Supplies
- Medications: Painkillers, altitude sickness meds (consult doctor), personal prescriptions
- Bandages, blister plasters, antiseptic cream, rehydration salts
- Tweezers, scissors
Electronics and Gadgets
- Headlamp (with extra batteries), camera (with extras), power bank
- Solar charger (optional), phone (Nepal SIM optional), GPS/maps (optional)
- Portable speaker (optional), adapters/chargers, battery pack, walkie-talkies (optional)
Documents and Permits
- Passport (valid), Nepal visa, trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park, TIMS card)
- Travel insurance (high-altitude coverage), cash (small denominations), passport-size photos
Miscellaneous Items
- Emergency contact list, notebook/pen, entertainment (cards/books)
- Small locks, whistle, sewing kit, zip-lock bags, trash bags, compression bags
- Duct tape (gear repairs)
Essential Info
Best Time to Trek
The ideal seasons for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp are pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and temperatures are moderate. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and vibrant landscapes, while autumn provides unparalleled mountain views after the monsoon has cleared the air. Winter treks are possible but challenging due to extreme cold, and monsoon treks face heavy rain and slippery trails.
Difficulty Level
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is graded as moderate, covering an average of 6–7 hours of hiking per day at high altitudes. The trail includes steep ascents, rocky paths, and some uneven terrain. The thin air at higher altitudes adds difficulty, even for seasoned trekkers. While technical climbing skills are not required, physical and mental endurance is crucial to complete the journey successfully.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Trekkers should have a good level of cardiovascular fitness, strength, and stamina. We recommend regular jogging, hiking, and strength training at least 8–12 weeks before the trek. Practice carrying a daypack with weight to simulate the trek. While the trek is achievable for beginners, preparation significantly enhances your experience and reduces physical strain.
Accommodation and Meals
Teahouses along the route provide basic accommodation with twin-sharing rooms. Facilities include a bed, blanket, and pillow, but heating is limited to communal areas. Meals include local staples such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, and momos. Vegetarian meals are widely available and recommended for food safety. Hot water and Wi-Fi are available at extra cost in most teahouses.
Travel Insurance Requirements
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for the trek. It must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters) and include provisions for emergency helicopter evacuation and medical treatment. Ensure your policy explicitly covers activities in Nepal, and keep a copy of your policy on hand during the trek.
Tips for First-Time Trekkers
For your first trek, start preparing early by focusing on fitness and researching the route. Pack wisely, bringing only essentials to reduce weight. Stay hydrated, eat nourishing meals, and pace yourself. Use trekking poles for stability on steep sections, and wear broken-in hiking boots to avoid blisters. Most importantly, listen to your body and communicate with your guide.
Preparation should include regular hikes on uneven terrain, cardio exercises like running or cycling, and strength training for your legs and core. Mental preparation is equally important; familiarize yourself with the challenges of high-altitude trekking.
Additional Costs to Expect
We recommend setting aside a daily budget of approximately $30 to cover miscellaneous expenses during your trek. Be sure to exchange your money for Nepalese rupees in cash while you’re in Kathmandu.
Beyond the trek package, additional costs include bottled water, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging at teahouses. Tips for guides and porters are expected (approximately 10–15% of the trip cost). Other expenses may include souvenirs, extra meals, or additional gear rental in Kathmandu.
Group vs. Private Trek Options
Our group treks are social and cost-effective, ideal for those who enjoy meeting new people and sharing their experiences. On the other hand, private treks offer flexibility in schedule, pace, and accommodations, catering to your specific needs. Families or those seeking a more personalized experience often prefer private treks, while solo travelers will find group treks more enjoyable and economical.
Annapurna Region Trekking FAQs
While the ABC trek can be done without a guide and porter, having both enhances safety, comfort, and the overall experience. A guide offers local expertise and support, while a porter lightens your load, making the trek more enjoyable and manageable. Together, they ensure a smoother, more memorable journey.
Accommodation along the trek is in teahouses, basic lodges that provide clean rooms with beds, and shared bathrooms. In recent years, the region has been modernized, and you can now find a range of Western foods along with traditional Nepali dishes, especially at lower altitudes. However, at higher elevations, accommodation remains more basic.
The teahouses offer a variety of food, from local Nepalese dishes like dal bhat to international options such as pasta, pizza, and soups. There are also plenty of snacks, including energy bars, biscuits, and fruits.
While Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses, it is not always reliable and may come with an extra charge. Mobile reception is generally available in most areas, but service can be patchy as you ascend higher into the mountains.
If the weather forces a cancellation, we will work with you to adjust your itinerary. We recommend that you factor in extra time in case of weather delays, particularly during the monsoon or winter months.
Budget for additional cuisines and drinks along the trail, hot showers, Wi-Fi usage, and tips for guides and porters.
