Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Everest Region Trekking

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trek into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary on a 12-day journey through traditional villages, rhododendron forests and high Himalayan valleys to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters.

12 Days / 11 Nights Moderate 4130 m 2-12
Trip Overview

About This Journey

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most rewarding Himalayan journeys, combining spectacular mountain scenery, traditional villages, forests and the dramatic natural amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary. The journey begins in Kathmandu before traveling to Pokhara, Nepal's famous lakeside city and gateway to the Annapurna Region. From the lower foothills, the trail passes through traditional settlements, terraced farmland and rhododendron forests before gradually entering the high mountain valley. Trekkers pass through Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 meters. The sanctuary is surrounded by some of the region's most impressive peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp offers an unforgettable panorama as the surrounding mountains are illuminated by early morning light. The return route descends through the same valley before reaching Jhinu Danda, where trekkers can relax near the natural hot springs when conditions permit. With a moderate level of difficulty and diverse landscapes, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is suitable for active travelers looking for a classic Himalayan trekking experience without reaching the extreme elevations found on some other Nepal treks.

Trip Highlights

  • Reach Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 meters
  • Enter the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre
  • Visit Machhapuchhre Base Camp
  • Experience sunrise surrounded by Himalayan peaks at Annapurna Base Camp
  • Trek through beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests
  • Explore traditional Gurung and mountain villages
  • Walk through terraced farmland and scenic river valleys
  • Visit Chhomrong, one of the major villages on the ABC route
  • Relax around Jhinu Danda and its natural hot spring area
  • Experience Pokhara before and after the trek
Day by Day

Trip Plan Details

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Meet the trekking team for an introduction, equipment check and briefing about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

1400 m Airport transfer and briefing Welcome dinner or according to package plan Hotel in Kathmandu

Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara through Nepal's scenic middle hills, river valleys and countryside. Arrive in Pokhara and prepare for the trek.

822 m Approximately 6-8 hours by road Approximately 200 km Breakfast Hotel in Pokhara

Drive from Pokhara toward the Annapurna foothills and begin trekking through terraced farmland and mountain settlements to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk.

1940 m 4-5 hours trekking Approximately 8-10 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house in Ghandruk

Continue through forest trails and river valleys with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre before reaching Chhomrong.

2170 m 5-6 hours trekking Approximately 9-10 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house in Chhomrong

Descend toward the Chhomrong Khola, cross the river and climb through forests before continuing into a beautiful bamboo and rhododendron valley.

2310 m 4-5 hours trekking Approximately 7-8 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house in Bamboo

Follow the valley through dense forest and gradually gain altitude, passing Himalayan settlements and waterfalls before reaching Deurali.

3200 m 5-6 hours trekking Approximately 9 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house in Deurali

Continue higher into the Annapurna Sanctuary as the landscape becomes increasingly alpine. Reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

3700 m 4-5 hours trekking Approximately 6-7 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house at Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Make the final gradual ascent through the Annapurna Sanctuary to Annapurna Base Camp. Enjoy close views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

4130 m 2-3 hours trekking Approximately 3-4 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house at Annapurna Base Camp

Wake early to experience sunrise over the Annapurna Sanctuary. After breakfast, begin the descent past Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali and Himalayan toward Bamboo.

2310 m 6-7 hours trekking Approximately 14-15 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house in Bamboo

Retrace the forest trail toward Chhomrong before descending to Jhinu Danda. If time and local conditions permit, visit the nearby natural hot spring area.

1780 m 5-6 hours trekking Approximately 9-10 km Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea house in Jhinu Danda

Complete the final section of the trek and take local transportation back to Pokhara. Enjoy the evening around the lakeside area.

822 m Trekking and road transfer Varies according to trailhead Breakfast, Lunch Hotel in Pokhara

Travel back to Kathmandu according to the selected transportation plan. Transfer to your hotel or airport according to your onward travel schedule.

1400 m Approximately 6-8 hours by road Approximately 200 km Breakfast
Know Before You Go

What's Included?

Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara according to the itinerary
  • Tea house or mountain lodge accommodation during trekking
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during trekking days
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter support according to group size
  • Transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara according to package plan
  • Transportation between Pokhara and trekking trailhead
  • Required trekking and conservation area permits
  • Guide and porter meals, accommodation and insurance
  • Basic first-aid support
  • Government taxes and service charges

Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel and emergency evacuation insurance
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Hot showers, battery charging and Wi-Fi during the trek
  • Alcoholic, bottled and specialty beverages
  • Extra meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Additional accommodation caused by weather, road or personal delays
  • Emergency evacuation expenses
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Any services not specifically listed under included services

Accommodation

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with locally operated tea houses or mountain lodges throughout the Annapurna Base Camp trekking route.

Transportation

Airport transfers, transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara according to the selected package plan, and local road transportation between Pokhara and the trekking trailhead.

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided during trekking days. Tea houses generally offer dal bhat, noodles, soups, rice dishes, potatoes, pasta, eggs and other locally available meals.

Good to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful answers before you plan this journey.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is generally considered moderate. Trekkers should be comfortable walking for several hours each day on mountain trails with frequent uphill and downhill sections.

The highest point of this itinerary is Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 meters above sea level.

March to May and September to November are the most popular trekking periods because these seasons generally offer favorable trail conditions and clearer mountain views.

Healthy beginners with good physical preparation can complete the trek. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not generally required.

The Annapurna Sanctuary offers views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and several neighboring Himalayan peaks.

Accommodation is provided in locally operated tea houses or mountain lodges. Facilities become simpler as the route reaches higher elevations.

Yes. Tea houses along the route serve a range of trekking meals including dal bhat, soups, noodles, rice, potatoes, pasta and eggs.

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking activities, medical treatment and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.

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