Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Trip Overview
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) at 4,130m is one of Nepal's most iconic and popular treks, taking you into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary — a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks. Unlike the Everest region, ABC offers a shorter, more accessible trek with dramatic close-up views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
The trek is famous for its diverse landscapes — from lush rhododendron forests and terraced farmlands to alpine meadows and glacial moraines. You'll walk through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, experience warm hospitality, and soak in natural hot springs at Jhinu Dada.
Unlike technical climbing peaks, ABC is a teahouse trek suitable for beginners and families with good fitness. The highlight is waking up at Base Camp, surrounded by giant peaks on all sides — an unforgettable Himalayan sunrise.
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then follows trails through Nayapul, Ghorepani, Chomrong, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching Annapurna Base Camp.
Best Seasons to Travel
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November) offer the best weather and clearest mountain views.
| Season | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Autumn | Crystal clear skies, stable weather, best views |
| Spring | Rhododendrons in full bloom, warmer days |
Avoid: Monsoon (June-August) – heavy rain, leeches, limited views. Winter (December-February) – very cold at higher elevations.
Notes to Travelers
Who is this for? Beginners, families, and trekkers of all levels. No technical climbing experience required.
Difficulty: Moderate. The highest point is 4,130m, with gradual acclimatization.
Physical Demands: Daily walking of 5-7 hours on stone stairs, forest trails, and mountain paths.
Required: ACAP permit, TIMS card, and travel insurance (recommended).
Accommodation: Teahouses and lodges with basic but comfortable facilities.
Inspiring Note
Annapurna Base Camp is not just a trek — it's a journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Waking up at 4,130m, surrounded by Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli, you'll understand why this is called the "Annapurna Sanctuary." From lush forests to alpine glaciers, from Gurung villages to natural hot springs, ABC offers the perfect Himalayan experience.
Highlights
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✅ Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) – surrounded by giant peaks
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✅ Sunrise over Annapurna I (8,091m) and Machhapuchhre
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✅ Poon Hill sunrise (optional side trip)
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✅ Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
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✅ Natural hot springs at Jhinu Dada
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✅ Rhododendron forests – spectacular in spring
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✅ Traditional Gurung & Magar villages
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✅ Pokhara's lakeside beauty
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✅ Shorter and more accessible than Everest Base Camp
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✅ No technical climbing – suitable for beginners
Quick Reference Table
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Highest Point | 4,130 m (13,550 ft) |
| Location | Annapurna Region, Nepal |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Duration | 12-17 days |
| Best Seasons | March-May & October-November |
| Start Point | Kathmandu → Pokhara → Nayapul |
| End Point | Phedi → Pokhara |
| Accommodation | Teahouses & lodges |
Fixed Departure Dates
Early booking recommended due to limited seats.
Itinerary
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Day 1 : Arrival and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu (1,350m)
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Highlights: Arrival in the capital city of Nepal, welcome by our representative, first glimpse of the Himalayan atmosphere
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Activity: Transfer to hotel, rest and recovery from your flight
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Day 2 : Drive to Pokhara (950m) and Transfer to Hotel
- Highlights: Scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, views of Trishuli River, first glimpses of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, arrival in the beautiful lake city of Pokhara
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Activity: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, hotel check-in, explore Lakeside area, visit Phewa Lake
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Day 3 : Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,480m)
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Highlights: Short scenic drive to the trailhead, crossing suspension bridges, views of Machhapuchhare, traditional villages, Modi Khola river views
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Activity: Drive to Nayapul, commence trekking along the Modi Khola River, pass through Birethanti village, ascend to Tikhedhunga
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Day 4 : Trek via Ulleri (1,960m) to Ghorepani (2,874m)
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Highlights: Steep stone staircase to Ulleri, rhododendron forests, panoramic views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, traditional Magar and Gurung villages
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Activity: Trek from Tikhedhunga, ascend the famous stone steps to Ulleri, continue through forests to Ghorepani village
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Day 5 : Explore Poon Hill (3,210m) and Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
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Highlights: POON HILL SUNRISE - spectacular panoramic view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhare, and more than 30 peaks, rhododendron forests, mountain vistas
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Activity: Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise, return to Ghorepani, trek through rhododendron forests to Tadapani
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Day 6 : Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m)
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Highlights: Dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhare, traditional Gurung village, suspension bridges
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Activity: Trek from Tadapani through forests and villages, cross the Chhomrong Khola, arrive at the beautiful village of Chhomrong
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Day 7 : Trek to Dovan (2,600m) via Sinuwa (2,340m) and Bamboo (2,310m)
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Highlights: Steep descent to the Chhomrong River, ascent through bamboo forests, views of Machhapuchhare, lush greenery, wildlife spotting
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Activity: Descend from Chhomrong, cross the river, ascend to Sinuwa, continue through Bamboo, arrive at Dovan
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Day 8 : Trek to Deurali (3,230m) via Himalaya Hotel
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Highlights: Alpine landscape, Modi Khola river gorge, dramatic mountain scenery, views of Machhapuchhare and Hiunchuli
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Activity: Trek from Dovan through Himalaya Hotel, ascend through steep rocky terrain, arrive at Deurali
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Day 9 : Trek via MBC (3,700m) to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
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Highlights: ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP - 360-degree panorama of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhare, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and surrounding peaks, the Annapurna Sanctuary amphitheater, accomplishment of reaching base camp
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Activity: Trek from Deurali to Machhapuchhare Base Camp, continue along the glacial moraine, arrive at Annapurna Base Camp, explore and celebrate
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Day 10 : Trek Back from Annapurna Base Camp to Dovan (2,600m)
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Highlights: Sunrise views from ABC, farewell to the Annapurna Sanctuary, descent through alpine and forest landscapes, retracing the scenic trail
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Activity: Morning photography at ABC, descend through Deurali and Himalaya Hotel, arrive at Dovan
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Day 11 : Trek Back from Dovan to Jhinu Danda (1,740m)
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Highlights: Relaxing at natural hot springs, views of Annapurna South, descent through bamboo and rhododendron forests, rejuvenation
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Activity: Trek from Dovan through Bamboo and Sinuwa, descend to Chhomrong, continue to Jhinu Danda, enjoy the natural hot springs
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Day 12 : Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul and Drive Back to Pokhara
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Highlights: Final trekking day, crossing suspension bridges, views of Machhapuchhare, completion of the trek, return to Pokhara city
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Activity: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, drive back to Pokhara, hotel transfer, celebration and rest
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Day 13 : Drive to Kathmandu, Transfer to Hotel; Farewell Dinner
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Highlights: Scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, return to the capital, farewell dinner celebration, memories of a successful trek
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Activity: Drive back to Kathmandu, hotel transfer, free time for shopping, farewell dinner with Himalayan Karma Treks
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Day 14 : Kathmandu to Your Port of Destination
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Highlights: Conclusion of an unforgettable Himalayan journey, departure from Nepal
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Activity: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, farewell
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Cost Inclusion
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure in a private vehicle
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan (twin-sharing basis)
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Pokhara on BB plan (twin-sharing basis)
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu (if applicable)
- Kathmandu to Pokhara transportation by tourist bus/private vehicle
- Pokhara to Nayapul (trek start point) and return by private vehicle/local jeep
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
- Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek (twin-sharing basis)
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- One experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) to carry your main luggage (max 15-20 kg per porter)
- Insurance, salary, meals, and accommodation for guide and porters
- Medical kit (basic first aid)
- All government taxes and official expenses
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with the Himalayan Karma Treks
- Complimentary duffel bag from Himalayan Karma Treks for storing and carrying your trekking gear
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport)
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory, covering emergency evacuation and high-altitude trekking up to 4,500m+)
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet, battery charging, hot showers, etc.
- Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, bottled water, and snacks
- Extra meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara beyond the itinerary
- Extra porter services (if required beyond the standard 1:2 ratio)
- Tips for guide, porters, and drivers (recommended but at your discretion)
- Any additional costs due to flight cancellations, weather delays, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances
- Personal trekking gear and equipment (sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, etc.)
- Emergency evacuation and medical treatment costs
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