Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Not Rated
Duration

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

55 people

Languages

English

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an immersive journey through the heart of the majestic 70 km Annapurna Range, offering unparalleled views of towering peaks such as Annapurna, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung, Hiunchuli, and Fang. This trek is meticulously designed to facilitate acclimatization, featuring reasonable daily altitude gains. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, the trek also ventures through numerous Gurung and Magar villages, presenting an invaluable opportunity to delve into their distinctive cultures.

The adventure commences with a day dedicated to exploring Kathmandu, followed by a scenic flight along the Himalayan Range to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurnas. Here, you’ll have time to wander along the lake shore and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Starting with a brief drive to Nayapul, the trail winds through lush forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo, ascending the Modi Khola Valley amidst the stunning circle of peaks above. This trek not only showcases the Annapurna region’s rich biodiversity, including its Himalayan wildlife but also its warm-hearted villages perched on terraced slopes, such as the renowned Gurung village of Ghandruk, featuring the Ghandruk Cultural Museum.

The journey’s pinnacle occurs within the awe-inspiring Annapurna Sanctuary, culminating at the Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by a colossal natural amphitheater of rock and ice. Witnessing sunrise here is an experience of a lifetime.

Descending over one night, the return trek introduces the soothing natural hot springs of Jhinu as a rejuvenating stop before concluding the trek with a drive from Dhampus Phedi back to Pokhara for a restful afternoon. The drive back to Kathmandu through the Middle Hill region offers a final glimpse into the serene rural life south of the Himalayas. For those captivated by the allure of Himalayan sunrises and sunsets, our Annapurna Sunrise Trek is another journey not to be missed, promising unforgettable views that etch themselves into the memory.

Highlights

  • Witness exquisite sunrise and stunning mountain panorama from Poon Hill.
  • Arrive at Annapurna Base Camp, nestled at the world's tenth-highest peak.
  • Encounter typical Nepali villages with diverse communities; higher elevations predominantly home to indigenous people.
  • Trek swiftly to Annapurna Base Camp, the foot of the world's tenth-highest peak, swiftly.
  • Immerse in the Annapurna region's stunning beauty and witness towering Himalayan Mountains up close.
  • Ideal for travelers with limited time, offering a condensed version of the longer ABC trek.
  • Discover the wonders of the Annapurna Conservation Area along this scenic and enriching trail.
  • Cross suspension bridges, waterfalls, rivers, and trek through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests along the way.
  • Visit Ghandruk village to explore the lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar communities in beauty.
  • Experience a memorable night stay at the Annapurna Base Camp
  • Discover historical and natural attractions in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.

Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (1 300m/4 260ft)

Upon finalizing all passport, immigration, and visa formalities, our team will greet you outside the airport terminal; look for a board displaying your name for easy identification. We'll then facilitate a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you'll have the afternoon at your leisure to rest or explore the surroundings. The evening is reserved for a warm welcome dinner, providing an excellent opportunity for you to meet your guide. This occasion serves as a prelude to a comprehensive briefing about your upcoming trek, where we'll review the itinerary, discuss essential details, and conduct a thorough check of all necessary equipment and supplies. After this productive session, you'll spend the night comfortably at your hotel, resting up for the adventure that awaits.

Day 2 : Kathmandu – Pokhara (880m/2 900ft), 6-7 hrs Drive

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Pokhara via the Prithvi Highway, offering captivating views of Nepal's rural landscapes, Middle Hill scenery, and significant rivers like the Trisuli Nadi, originating from Tibet. This journey takes you through the verdant lower Gorkha region, lying beneath the towering Manaslu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel to settle in. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Pokhara's highlights, including the mesmerizing Devi’s Waterfall and the mysterious Shiva’s Cave. Cap off the day with a serene evening cruise on the calm waters of Lake Phewa, followed by dinner. Enjoy a restful overnight stay in Pokhara, a city known for its natural beauty and gateway to the Annapurna Circuit.

Day 3 : Pokhara – Nayapul (1 070m) – Ulleri (2080m/6822ft) 1 hrs 15 min drive, 5-6 hr trek

Departing from your hotel, we journey north, passing through stretches of farmland and dense forest to reach the trailhead at Nayapul. Here begins our trek to the thriving riverside community of Birethanti, situated at 1,000 meters where the Modi and Bhurungdi Kholas rivers converge. Following the Bhurungdi Khola, the trail leads to Sudame at 1,340 meters, ascending steadily along the valley to Tikhedhunga at 1,510 meters. The route then presents a challenging but rewarding climb up long, steep rock staircases to the village of Ulleri, perched at 2,080 meters. It's in this picturesque village that we will spend the night, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape and the warmth of the local community.

Day 4 : Ulleri – Ghorepani (2 870m/9 420ft), 4-5 hrs

Greeting the day early, we're immediately rewarded with a breathtaking landscape and stunning vistas of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, their peaks bathed in the first light of dawn. The day's trek ascends through enchanting, ancient forests of rhododendron and oak, a habitat rich in biodiversity and beauty, punctuated by well-deserved rests. This gradual climb brings us to the significant village of Ghorepani, a place that stands as a vantage point offering remarkable views of Dhaulagiri I and the vast Annapurna Himal. Here, amidst the serene beauty and the cool mountain air, we will spend the night, preparing for the early morning journey to Poon Hill that awaits.

Day 5 : Ghorepani – Poon hill (3 210m/10 530ft) – Tadapani (2 710ft/8 890ft), 6-7 hrs

Rising before dawn, a brief yet steep trek of approximately 45 minutes brings us to the grassy summit of Poon Hill, an iconic vantage point renowned for its panoramic views of the high Himalayas. Here, the horizon unfolds from Dhaulagiri I and Upper Dolpo in the west, across the majestic Annapurnas, to the distinct peak of Machhapuchhare (Fish Tail) and eastwards to Manaslu, presenting an awe-inspiring tableau. Beyond, an expansive sea of Sal forests stretches towards lowland India, offering a striking contrast to the snowy heights. Post-breakfast, the journey continues eastward to Tadapani. This segment of the trail weaves across ridges, through dense pine and rhododendron forests, interspersed with occasional flat stretches. These high points along the path offer magnificent views of the northern snow-capped peaks. The day’s trek, rich in natural beauty, culminates with an overnight stay in Tadapani, providing a peaceful end to a day filled with visual splendor.

Day 6 : Tadapani – Chhomrong (1960m/6429ft), 5-6 hrs

The trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong is a journey of breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness, spanning approximately 5-6 hours. Descending from Tadapani, trekkers are embraced by the dense rhododendron forests, a hallmark of the region, before the trail gradually ascends, revealing the rural beauty of Nepal's countryside. Chhomrong, situated at an elevation of 1960 meters, offers a stunning vantage point of the Annapurna range, with Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) dominating the skyline. This village is a critical gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp and a melting pot of culture, offering insights into the lives of the Gurung community. The path itself is a mix of natural and man-made elements, with stone steps leading into the heart of Chhomrong, where the warmth of local hospitality awaits. This segment of the trek not only challenges the body but also enriches the spirit, offering serene natural beauty and a deeper connection with the local culture and lifestyle.

Day 7 : Chhomrong – Himalaya Hotel (2 840m/9 320ft), 6-7 hrs

Descending a broad stone staircase from Chhomrong, trekkers cross the Chhomrong Khola at 1,900 meters before embarking on an ascent through verdant forests to reach Sinuwa at 2,340 meters, where lunch in this charming village offers a moment of respite. The journey continues through enchanting rhododendron forests into the upper Modi Khola Valley, then down stone stairs into a lush bamboo forest, arriving at the small settlement of Bamboo at 2,310 meters. Beyond Bamboo, the path ascends the canyon side, navigating past several avalanche chutes within an uninhabited forest, leading to Dobhan. A brief 30-minute climb culminates at the secluded Himalaya Hotel, where an overnight stay offers a peaceful retreat amidst the natural serenity of the Himalayas, marking a significant milestone on the trek towards the Annapurna Base Camp.

Day 8: Himalaya Hotel – Machhapuchhare BC (3 700m/12 140ft) – Annapurna BC (4 130m/13 550ft), 6-7 hrs

As you ascend, the dense forests gradually give way to the stark beauty of alpine grasses and bushes, marking the transition into the higher reaches of the Himalayas. At Hinku, 3,100 meters above sea level, explorers are greeted by a mysterious cave, adding an element of adventure before crossing a narrow valley and navigating past avalanche tracks to reach Deorali at 3,140 meters. The trail’s geology, with the canyon’s fascinating side walls, becomes a highlight, alongside the increasingly dramatic views of the sacred Annapurna Sanctuary. Approaching a ridge, the path ascends to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) for lunch, offering the first full views into the Sanctuary. From MBC, a gentle two-hour trek up grassy slopes leads to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) hotels, nestled on the glacial moraine of Annapurna South. Here, you stand in awe, some 4,000 meters beneath the towering peaks that form the Sanctuary's close-knit ice walls, offering a profound sense of accomplishment. Spending the night at Base Camp allows for moments of reflection under the immense peaks, with the promise of a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna massif.

Day 9 : Annapurna Base Camp – Sinuwa (2 340m/7 680ft), 6-7 hrs

Before the break of dawn, venture to the glacier's edge for an unforgettable visual experience, capturing the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. The panoramic ring of peaks unfolds clockwise from Hiunchuli, encompassing Annapurna South, the towering ice wall crowned by Annapurna I, and moving through Singu Chuli (Fluted Peak), Tent Peak (Tharpu Chuli), to Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and the iconic Machhapuchhare. The moment is made all the more profound by the audible grind of the glacier shifting in its ancient U-shaped valley below. Following breakfast, retrace your steps down to Bamboo, then ascend slightly to reach Sinuwa. Here, a more comfortable and relaxing night awaits, allowing for rest and reflection on the journey's experiences thus far. Sinuwa provides a serene backdrop for an overnight stay, nestled amidst the majestic silence of the Himalayas, marking another memorable day on your trek through this extraordinary landscape.

Day 10: Sinuwa – Jhinu Danda (1 750m/5 740ft) Pokhara (910m/2 900ft), 2-3 drive

Begin your descent to the Chhomrong Khola, then tackle the steep steps back up to Chhomrong. From there, journey to the small hamlet of Taglung, before taking a side path that descends sharply to Jhinu Danda. Here, indulge in lunch and perhaps enjoy a rejuvenating dip in the celebrated hot springs located on the river bank below the village. After relishing the warmth of the hot springs, ascend back to the village and continue your descent to cross the Modi Khola at New Bridge. Then, embark on a drive to Naya Pul, connecting to the Pokhara-Baglung Highway, leading you back to Pokhara and your hotel. For a deeper insight into the region's geography and culture, consider visiting the Mountain Museum. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Pokhara, reflecting on the journey's incredible experiences and the tranquil beauty of the Annapurna region.

Day 11 : Pokhara – Kathmandu (1 300m/4 260ft), 6-7 hrs drive

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway, a journey that unveils the diverse and captivating landscapes of rural Nepal. As you traverse through the Middle Hills, the route offers picturesque views and a closer look at the daily lives of the local communities. Alongside, the road parallels major rivers like the Trisuli Nadi, originating from the Tibetan plateau, adding a serene backdrop to your journey. The drive also takes you through the lower reaches of the Gorkha region, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Manaslu. This return trip not only connects two major cities but also bridges the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal, culminating in an overnight stay in Kathmandu. Here, you can reflect on the entirety of your journey through the heart of the Himalayas, carrying memories of the landscapes, people, and experiences that define this incredible adventure

Day 12 : Final Departure

It's time to bid farewell. Ensure your luggage is packed, leaving nothing behind. We welcome your feedback. Our team will escort you from your hotel to the international airport according to your flight schedule. If you have extra days and wish to explore more, we offer various adventurous and relaxing trips in Nepal.

Customize Trip

Allow our experts at Nature Heaven Treks and Expedition to help you Plan one of the most Memorable Vacations based on your interests with their in-depth knowledge of the Himalayas, they can craft the journey of your dreams considering your preferred location, time frame, and Budget.

  • Pickup from Kathmandu International Airport as per your arrival date and time.
  • 2 nights of accommodation in Kathmandu based on a 3-star category
  • Tourist bus ticket to Pokhara from Kathmandu
  • 2 nights' accommodation in Pokhara based on the 3 Stars category
  • Taxi to the trek start point (Birethanti) from Pokhara
  • All necessary entry permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  • One professional English-speaking trekking guide, all necessary insurance, meals, and allowances
  • 9 nights of twin-sharing accommodation during the trek
  • 3 meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Taxi to Pokhara from the trek's endpoint (Siwai)
  • Tourist Bus Ticket to Kathmandu from Pokhara
  • One map of Annapurna Base Camp trekking
  • Farewell dinner before you depart from Nepal
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket (you could return after the trip)
  • Trekking gear duffel bag for your trekking stuff (if you take a porter)
  • Airport transfer services as your departure date and time
  • Kathmandu city tour monument fees
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu Pokhara except welcome and farewell dinner
  • All the soft and alcoholic drinks
  • Mineral water
  • Boiled water
  • Personal expenses
  • Electronic devise recharge
  • Wi-Fi
  • Travel insurance and evacuation
  • Tipping

English

Tour's Location

How long does it take to hike Annapurna Base Camp?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek typically takes about 7 to 12 days, depending on the chosen route, walking pace, and acclimatization stops.

How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical fitness due to steep paths, high altitude, and daily long-distance hiking.

How much does it cost to trek at Annapurna Base Camp?

The cost of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp typically ranges from $900 to $1,300, covering permits, guides, accommodation, food, and transportation.

Is Annapurna Base Camp for beginners?

Annapurna Base Camp is suitable for beginners with good physical fitness, as it provides manageable trails and excellent infrastructure, despite its moderate challenges.

Do you need a sleeping bag for Annapurna base camp trekking?

Yes, a sleeping bag is recommended for Annapurna Base Camp trekking due to cold nights, especially in teahouses that might not provide sufficient bedding.

What is the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

The best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for clear weather and views.

What is the cheapest price for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

The cheapest price for the Annapurna Base Camp trek can start around $900, including essential services like permits, guides, accommodation, and meals.

Why is Annapurna Base Camp famous?

Annapurna Base Camp is famous for its stunning Himalayan views, diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and accessibility for trekkers of varying skill levels.

Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek crowded?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek can be crowded, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn). Early morning starts and traveling in off-peak months can help avoid the largest crowds on the trails.

How do I prepare for Annapurna Base Camp?

Prepare for Annapurna Base Camp by increasing cardiovascular fitness, practicing hikes with elevation, packing appropriate gear, and acclimatizing to altitude gradually.

What food is served at Annapurna Base Camp?

At Annapurna Base Camp, teahouses serve a mix of Nepali and Western foods like dal bhat, noodles, soups, rice dishes, pancakes, and eggs.

Is there a mobile network in Annapurna Base Camp?

Mobile network coverage in Annapurna Base Camp is spotty but available. Ncell and Nepal Telecom provide the best service, though connectivity can be unreliable.

How many steps are in the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek involves thousands of steps, particularly notable on the section to Ulleri. Total steps vary significantly based on the route.

Is there snowfall in Annapurna Base Camp?

Snowfall at Annapurna Base Camp occurs mainly in winter (December to February) and occasionally during other seasons, especially at higher elevations.

How many kilometers is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek spans approximately 70 to 80 kilometers round trip, varying slightly depending on the specific starting point and route taken.

Is avalanche risk in Annapurna Base Camp?

Yes, there is an avalanche risk in Annapurna Base Camp, particularly in certain sections. Trekkers should be cautious and consider local guidance and weather conditions.

How cold does it get in Annapurna Base Camp?

Temperatures at Annapurna Base Camp can drop below freezing, typically ranging from -25°C to 10°C, with colder conditions at night and in winter months.

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