Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Duration
15 days
Activities
Tour, Trekking
Max Altitude
4,130m (13,545ft)
Group Size
02-08
Expedition Overview
Facts of the trip
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Arrival On
Kathmandu
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Departure From
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Accommodation
3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara; and teahouses during the trek
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Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara. All meals during the trek
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Best Time
October-December, February- May
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Transportation
Private Jeep or Van
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a breathtaking adventure that takes you deep into the heart of Nepal’s Annapurna region, offering an unparalleled blend of dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and diverse ecosystems. The journey begins in lush subtropical forests, where rhododendrons bloom vibrantly in the spring, before transitioning into terraced farmlands and picturesque Gurung and Magar villages. As the trail ascends, the scenery shifts to alpine meadows and rugged glacial terrain, leading to the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary—an amphitheater of towering peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). The trek’s grand finale at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) rewards trekkers with an awe-inspiring sunrise over the snow-capped giants, making it a dream destination for both seasoned trekkers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
A frequently asked question about the trek is its difficulty level, which is considered moderate and suitable for beginners with decent fitness levels. The journey typically takes 7 to 12 days, depending on the chosen itinerary, with well-established tea houses offering accommodation and meals along the route. Trekkers need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card to enter the region. While altitude sickness is a lesser concern compared to higher Himalayan treks, gradual acclimatization and proper hydration are essential. The best seasons to undertake the trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is stable, and the mountain views are crystal clear. Whether trekking solo or with a guide, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Annapurna Sanctuary: The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, an impressive natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks. The stunning views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m) will leave trekkers in awe. The sanctuary provides a perfect vantage point to experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
- Varied Landscapes: The trek offers a fascinating variety of landscapes, starting from lush subtropical forests at the lower altitudes, full of vibrant rhododendron flowers (especially in spring), and gradually ascending through terraced farmlands and picturesque villages. As you climb, the trail changes to alpine meadows and then to rocky and glacial terrain, providing a diverse trekking experience.
- Magar and Gurung Villages: Along the trek, trekkers pass through beautiful Magar and Gurung villages, which offer a glimpse into the local life of these ethnic communities. These villages are known for their warm hospitality and traditional culture, with their stone houses, temples, and prayer flags. Visitors can learn about the Gurung’s unique customs and lifestyle, making for an immersive cultural experience.
- Sunrise Views at ABC: The highlight of the trek is reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m, where trekkers are treated to an unforgettable sunrise. The first rays of the sun light up the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a magical atmosphere. Watching the sunrise from ABC is a moment of pure Himalayan beauty that is hard to beat.
- Lower Himalayas Trekking: The trek allows trekkers to experience the lower Himalayas in all their glory. The trek starts at relatively lower altitudes and gradually ascends, giving trekkers a chance to acclimatize properly. You will pass through terraced fields, rivers, and waterfalls while being surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
- Easy Accessibility and Tea Houses: One of the best features of the ABC trek is its accessibility. The trek is moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. The route is well-supported by numerous tea houses, offering trekkers comfortable accommodations and delicious local meals along the way. This makes the trek easier and more enjoyable for trekkers of all experience levels.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and Himalayan adventure, making it a highly recommended trek for anyone looking to experience the heart of the Annapurna range.
Itinerary
Arrival day in Kathmandu (Private transportation, Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan intl. airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu (1,400m). After time to get refreshed, evening you will meet and transfer for welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu and after meal briefing about your trip and overnight at Hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 30 Min
- Altitude: 1,400m
- Meals: Dinner
Today, morning we will ready after your breakfast to head on for our relaxing guided day trip to world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley and visit the highlights of Kathmandu and the surrounding areas. We take you to visit the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, one of the most important shrine of Shiva temples on the subcontinent which is place of thousand of devotees, Saddhus (holy men/Baba), and can be seen the cremating body most of the times in the holy riverbank of Bagmati. Hundreds of monkeys are giggling with you and take a time to exploring surrounding area and visit Bouddhanath stupa an another pilgrimage centre which is most popular and important place for Buddhist. You can explore with rounding prayer wheel and flattering colorful flag with melodious chanting noise. After your lunch at Bouddha visit Swoyambhunath stupa also known as monkey temple covering wide range of area with highest point of Kathmandu valley and enjoy the 360 degrees of valley view. After exploring the surrounding areas visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square which is old royal palace of Kathmandu and can be seen lot of temple, architectures and Kumari (living goddess) and walk in a freak street and late afternoon back to hotel and evening briefing about your trip, what is your responsibility, what to do and does not in the trek? Introduce with our fellow trekking staff and chances to ask remaining question and simply relax at the hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 1,400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
In about seven hours drive you will reach to Pokhara with is the most picturesque spots and an attractive valley. Pokhara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal. Three out of the ten highest mountains in the world (Annapurna I 8091m, Dhaulagiri 8267m, Manaslu 8156m) situated within 50 km of the city, so that the northern skyline of the city offers a very close view of beautiful Himalayas. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 840m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Pokahra to Hile by jeep and trek to Ulleri (2020 m /2-hour trek to Ulleri) . The trail winds its way through bamboo forests and passes by a spectacular waterfall. Overnight in Ulleri.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 2,020m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Annapurna South (7273m) and the Hiunchuli gradually unfold on this pleasant walk uphill through fields and pastures and later through rhododendrons and oak woods. Ghorepani was originally a horse watering post, which has evolved into an important crossroads for tourists and the numerous mule caravans on the Jomoson-Pokhara trip. Overnight in Ghorepani.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 2,775m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We leave early morning for Poon Hill, to catch the early morning sunlight on the panorama of peaks: Dhaulaghiri, Annapurnas, Machhapuchare. This is an option but really worth the while. We then retrace our steps to Ghorepani and continue towards Tadapani through rhododendron woods. Overnight in Tadapani.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 2,540m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After the breakfast and great views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre) and Ganggapurna, we start our trek steep descending towards the Kmrong river. We walk through farmlands and farms growing millet, rice, corn. In the afternoon, we then trekked along the mountain side with dramatic drops into the valley and gentle walk to Chhomrong. Chhomrong is a beautiful village located on the lap of the giant Annapurna massive. Overnight in Chhomrong.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 2,170m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We descend via 2500 stone steps and cross the bridge above Chhomrong Khola. From here it is an uphill climb to Sinuwa. Then we cross a beautiful forest leading to Kuldihar, followed by an easy downhill walk to Bamboo. Overnight in Bamboo.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 2,310m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We pass through a bamboo forest which is damp and cold then ascend steadily with a few steep sections. Later, the forest opens up and we are out in the sun again with astounding views of the glacial river below. It is a steep climb up through a much drier forest before reaching Hinku Cave. From here we can see the trail drop closer to the river before climbing again to Deurali, the most scenic stretch of the day. The vegetation is sparser, allowing magical views of the valley, the river below, and the sheer rock-face cliffs above with bands of wispy waterfalls. Overnight in Deurali.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 3,230m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb gently through a river bed and then over a steep trail leading to the mountain side. The hike from Bagar to Machhapuchhre Base Camp is somewhat strenuous. From Machhapuchhre Base Camp we get excellent views of the majestic Machhapuchhre, Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gandharvachuli and Gangapurna. This is a very rewarding experience. The vegetation disappears on our way to ABC and the path widens as we enter the Annapurna sanctuary. From here, we get sensational views of the south face of Annapurna towering above us. The sanctuary boasts of a dynamic view. Nothing will impede the 360-degree panorama. From the base camp we again get to savor mesmerizing views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South , Annapurna I, Hiunchuli and other peaks. Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 4,130m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From the Annapurna Base Camp we will head back to Bamboo. Today’s trek is downhill, so it shouldn’t be very difficult. Moreover, we will always enjoy company of the extraordinary landscape all around. Overnight in Bamboo.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 2,310m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Bamboo, it is an uphill trek to Kuldighar followed by a downhill walk to Chhomrong Khola. Then we climb the stone steps to Chhomrong. The trail then descends to Jhinu Danda, where we will be resting for the night. Today we will have an opportunity to enjoy the hot springs which is just a 15-20 minute downhill walk from Jhinu Danda. Overnight in Jhinu Danda.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 1,760m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
On our way to Naya Pul from Jhinu Danda, we get to enjoy the amazing hill landscape of western Nepal. We have lunch on the way. Our trek will end at Naya Pul where we board our vehicle to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 840m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We drive back to Kathmandu (Opt to take flight 25 min). After arriving in Kathmandu, we will be escorted to our hotel. We enjoy the day leisurely, do some last minute shopping or explore any landmarks we missed during our first day in Kathmandu. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 1,400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Your wonderful journey in Nepal comes to an end today. A representative from Utmost Adventure will take you to the airport, approximately 3 and 1/2 hours before your scheduled flight.
- Accommodation: No
- Hours: 45 Min
- Altitude: 1,400m
- Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
What's Included
- Pick up from and drop to the international airport in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights in 2-3 star level tourist standard hotel, other possibilites on demand)
- All land transfer as per given itinerary
- Sightseeing tour with an experienced local guide (entrance fees for monasteries, temples, world heritage sites)
- National Park Conservation entry permit fees
- Accommodation:
- Teahouse (twin rooms)
- Meals (3 meals / B.L.D) while on the trek (possible to choose the opiton including only breakfast and order lunch and dinner individually from the teahouse menu)
- Experienced English speaking guide / tour leader, experienced local helpers
- Program according to the itinerary
- Wages, food, accommodation, equipment, insurance and other facilities for staff members
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Nepal entry visa
- Travel insurance / Medical evacuation in case of emergency
- Personal expenses, i.e. soft/hard drinks, tips etc.
What to Expect
Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek-15 Days
- Walking through beautiful, calm, peaceful, and naturally built rocky and rugged trails
- Traditional Nepalese Foods and cuisine
- Exploration of beautiful and typical Gurung Villages and experience of their great hospitality service
- Astounding rhythmic waterfalls, turquoise lakes/ ponds, rivers and creeks, and beautiful gorge, etc.
- Stunning panoramic mountains vistas form the several viewpoints and hill stations
- Stunning panoramic mountains vistas form the several viewpoints and hill stations
Equipment List
Accommodation
We will be staying at a 2/3-star hotel in Kathmandu and in tea houses during the trek. All rooms are on a twin-shared basis. Single bedrooms can be arranged upon request and will incur an additional cost. Fourteen Summit will arrange rooms with attached washrooms; however, some tea houses in certain locations only offer shared washing and toilet facilities. Additionally, please note that single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and in trekking regions at lower elevations, but they may be harder to find at higher altitudes.
Meals
All meals will be provided during the trek. However, upon request, we can arrange only breakfast during the trek, and trekkers can order lunch and dinner individually from the tea-house menu. In Kathmandu, breakfast will be available, and there will be welcome and farewell dinners for our guests. While on the trek, we will have breakfast and dinner at the tea-houses or lodges where we spend the night, and we will have lunch while en route to our next destination. The menu typically offers a variety of options, including authentic Nepalese, Tibetan, continental, and Indian cuisine.
Team Composition
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, a 13-day trip, is considered a moderate trek. Travelers who can comfortably walk for 5-6 hours a day on both uphill and downhill terrain will likely find this trek fulfilling. To prepare for the Annapurna trek, it’s advisable to engage in regular jogging and exercise at least a month before the trek begins.
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp should be relatively easier for those with prior experience walking or trekking in high-altitude environments. While past hiking experience can be beneficial, no technical skills are required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart, lung, or blood diseases, should inform Fourteen Summit before booking the trek.
Physical Condition & Experience Requirements
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered a moderate trek. Travelers who can walk for up to 5-6 hours a day on both uphill and downhill trails will find this trip fulfilling and enjoyable. It’s advisable to prepare for the ABC trek by jogging and exercising regularly for at least a month before starting. Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp should be relatively manageable for those with experience in hiking or trekking at high altitudes. Determination, good physical health, a positive attitude, and average physical fitness are all favorable conditions for successfully completing the trek. Past hiking experience can be an asset, but no technical skills are required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart, lung, and blood diseases, should inform Fourteen Summit before booking the trek.
Best Time to Travel
The best time for trekking to the Kanchanjunga Base Camp is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer moderate temperatures and guarantee amazing views throughout the trip. While it is possible to undertake this trek during winter, the cold temperatures may not be suitable for everyone.
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FAQ
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a moderate to challenging trekking route in Nepal that leads to the base camp of Annapurna I (8,091m), the 10th highest mountain in the world. The trek typically takes 6 to 12 days, passing through diverse landscapes, including lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, rivers, and alpine terrain, offering stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri.
The ABC Trek is moderately difficult, requiring 5-7 hours of trekking per day. The trail includes many stone steps, steep ascents, and descents but does not reach extreme altitudes like the Everest Base Camp Trek. Proper physical fitness, endurance, and gradual acclimatization are necessary, especially as the trek reaches 4,130m at ABC.
The best seasons for the ABC Trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are breathtaking. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons, while autumn provides crisp visibility. Winter (December-February) trekking is possible but comes with cold temperatures and snow, while monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rain and leeches.
Yes, trekkers need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara and are checked at multiple points along the trek.
The trek typically takes 6 to 12 days, depending on the route and trekking pace. A common itinerary includes stops at Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), and ABC, with the return trip often being faster. Some trekkers combine the ABC Trek with Poon Hill for an extended journey.
Accommodation consists of tea houses and lodges, offering basic rooms with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Lower altitudes have better facilities like hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging ports, while higher altitudes have more basic amenities, and food prices increase as supplies are carried up manually or by mules.
Although ABC (4,130m) is not as high as some other treks in Nepal, altitude sickness can still be a concern, especially for those who ascend too quickly. It is recommended to stay hydrated, take acclimatization breaks, and ascend gradually. If symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea occur, resting or descending is advised.
The trek can be done independently, as the trails are well-marked, but hiring a guide provides cultural insights, safety, and navigation assistance. A porter can help carry luggage, making the trek easier, especially for those who want to enjoy the journey without carrying heavy loads.
The trek typically starts from Nayapul, which is about a 1.5-2 hour drive from Pokhara. Some trekkers start from Ghandruk or Jhinu Danda for alternative routes. The trek usually ends at Jhinu Danda, from where a jeep ride back to Pokhara is available.
The ABC Trek is unique because it offers a short yet rewarding journey into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering peaks. Unlike other treks, it takes trekkers into an amphitheater of mountains, providing a 360-degree panoramic view of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. The mix of diverse landscapes, rich Gurung culture, and natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda makes it one of Nepal’s most popular trekking experiences.