Annapurna Base Camp

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular Himalayan journey located in central Nepal. It takes you right into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by some of the most stunning peaks in the region.

This is a moderate to challenging trek, usually completed in 10 to 13 days. It starts from Pokhara and passes through beautiful villages, lush forests, and terraced farmlands. The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, offering close-up views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and other peaks.

Along the way, you’ll experience local Gurung culture, stay in cozy tea houses, and even relax in natural hot springs. The best times to go are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is clear and the views are at their best.

Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a captivating journey that takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna range in Nepal. Set amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, this trek offers unparalleled views, diverse landscapes, and an authentic experience of Nepali culture.

Starting from the bustling city of Pokhara, the trek leads you through picturesque villages, dense rhododendron forests, and scenic terraced fields, gradually ascending toward the base camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). Along the way, you'll pass through diverse ecosystems, encounter local Gurung and Magar cultures, and experience the serene beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

The trek is moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for trekkers with a good level of fitness. The best times to visit are during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons, when the weather is clear, and the views are at their best. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Day 2: Drive to Pokhara (820m) – 6 to 7 hours
Day 3: Drive to Nayapul & Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
Day 4: Trek to Ghorepani (2,860m)
Day 5: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) & Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
Day 6: Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Day 7: Trek to Himalaya (2,920m)
Day 8: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
Day 9: Trek to Bamboo (2,310m)
Day 10: Trek to Jhinu Danda (1,780m) – Hot Springs!
Day 11: Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara
Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu
Day 13: Departure Day

Trail Overview

Follow a carefully crafted route that takes you through charming villages, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain views as you make your way to Annapurna Base Camp. Each day brings a new landscape, a new experience, and a deeper connection to the Himalayas.

Includes and Excludes

Includes

✅ Airport pickup and drop-off service
✅ All ground transportation during the trip
✅ 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
✅ 2 nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
✅ Comfortable teahouse stays during the trek
✅ All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
✅ Licensed English-speaking trekking guide and porter
✅ Trekking permits (ACAP & TIMS)
✅ First aid kit and emergency support staff
✅ Use of duffel bag for the trek

Excludes

❌ International airfare
❌ Nepal entry visa fees
❌ Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
❌ Personal trekking gear and clothing
❌ Travel insurance (mandatory)
❌ Tips for guide, porter, and driver
❌ Extra nights in case of early arrival, late departure, or trip delays
❌ Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and bottled water
❌ Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging in teahouses

What to Expect

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is more than just reaching a destination — it’s a journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and elevations. Expect to walk 5–7 hours a day on well-established trails that pass through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages.

You’ll stay in cozy teahouses offering basic comfort — clean beds, warm meals, and mountain hospitality. Mornings are crisp, days are sunny, and nights can get chilly, especially at higher altitudes.

Altitude gain is gradual, but you’ll feel it as you go higher. Our itinerary is designed to help you acclimatize safely. Meals are nourishing and mostly vegetarian — think dal bhat, noodles, pancakes, and hot tea.

Wi-Fi and charging are available in most villages for a small fee, but expect limited connectivity. This is your time to unplug, slow down, and immerse in mountain life. From sunrise views at Poon Hill to the awe-inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary, every step offers something new.

FAQs

The trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It does not require prior trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness will make the journey more enjoyable. You’ll be walking 5 to 7 hours a day on a mix of uphill, downhill, and uneven paths. The gradual gain in altitude makes it manageable for most hikers, and our itinerary is designed to allow your body time to adjust.

While it’s possible to trek independently, we highly recommend going with a guide — not only for your safety, but also for deeper cultural insight and ease of logistics. Our guides are locals who know the terrain, weather patterns, and villages well. They also help you interact with local communities in a more meaningful and respectful way.

Yes, permits are required for trekking in the Annapurna region. You’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. Both are included in our package, and we handle all the paperwork for you, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

You will be staying in traditional teahouses along the route. These are local guesthouses that offer basic but comfortable lodging — typically private or twin-share rooms with simple beds and shared bathrooms. Meals are served in a common dining area with a cozy fireplace, and you’ll get a chance to chat with fellow trekkers and local hosts.

Annapurna Base Camp sits at 4,130 meters (13,550 ft), which is relatively moderate in terms of altitude. While the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) is lower than in higher treks like Everest Base Camp, symptoms can still occur. Our itinerary is designed to help you acclimatize properly, and our guides are trained to recognize and respond to any signs of altitude-related illness.

The most popular seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and beautiful mountain views. Spring brings rhododendron blooms, while autumn offers the clearest weather. Winter is also possible, but trails can be icy and temperatures extremely cold, especially at night.

You’ll need comfortable trekking clothes, a warm jacket, a sleeping bag, sturdy hiking boots, and essentials like a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a headlamp. A full gear list is available on our website to help you pack smartly and lightly.

Yes, most teahouses along the trail offer electricity for charging devices and Wi-Fi access for a small fee. However, the quality of the connection varies and can be unreliable, especially at higher altitudes. We recommend bringing a power bank and using the opportunity to digitally detox and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.