Annapurna Base Camp Trek
A classic trek into the heart of the Annapurnas, this route combines terraced fields, traditional villages, and a dramatic amphitheatre of towering peaks.
Overview
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic and accessible high-altitude treks. It takes 10–14 days to complete this trek and takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary — a high glacial basin surrounded by towering Himalayan giants such as Annapurna (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. The route winds through rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, Gurung and Magar villages, and eventually ascends into what has been described as “a spectacular alpine amphitheatre”.
- Max Elevation: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
- Best Season: Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November)
Duration
14 Days
Location
Annapurna
Difficulty
Moderate
Altitude
4130 m
Best Season
Spring
About the Region
Located in central Nepal, the Annapurna region offers one of the most strikingly diverse landscapes in the Himalayas — from lush lowland rice terraces to some of the world’s highest peaks, including the Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. It is home to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), Nepal’s largest protected area and a haven for biodiversity.
The region’s rich cultural fabric is woven from a mosaic of communities, each with distinct traditions, languages, and ways of life. Its blend of rugged terrain, spiritual heritage, and ecological diversity makes it one of the world’s most celebrated trekking destinations.
While the 14-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp offers a deep dive into the heart of the region, there are several other trekking options in the region. Popular alternatives include the Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek, the Mardi Himal Trek, and the Annapurna Circuit trek — each offering its own unique perspective on the region’s grandeur.
Route
Dive into our curated travel styles and find the perfect adventure that speaks to your heart.
What to Expect
- Physical Challenge: Moderate altitude and some steep ascents/descents.
- Accommodation: Teahouses and lodges with basic facilities.
- Food: Local meals such as dal bhat, momos, Tibetan bread, and pasta.
- Weather: Mild at lower altitudes; cold and potentially snowy near ABC.
Trip Highlights
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), a natural amphitheatre surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.
- Enjoy diverse scenery: terraced rice paddies, rhododendron forests, glacial rivers, and snow-covered landscapes.
- Experience warm hospitality in Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong.
- Close-up views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
- Trek through the Annapurna Sanctuary — a spiritual and geographical gem of the Himalayas.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1–3: Arrive in Kathmandu, explore city and transfer to Pokhara.
- Day 4–5: Drive to Nayapul, trek through Ghandruk to Chhomrong.
- Day 6–8: Trek through Bamboo and Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp.
- Day 9–11: Return via the same route to Jhinu Danda (hot springs) and drive to Pokhara.
- Day 12–14: Explore Pokhara and return to Kathmandu.
Itinerary
Dive into our curated travel styles and find the perfect adventure that speaks to your heart.
1
Day
ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU
Activities: Airport pickup, hotel transfer, rest.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel.
2
Day
KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING & TREK PREPARATION
Activities: Explore Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, or Patan Durbar Square. Gear check and permit arrangements.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel.
3
Day
DRIVE OR FLY TO POKHARA
Activities: 25-min flight or 6–7-hour scenic drive to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside town, and the beginning point of our trek.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel.
4
Day
DRIVE TO NAYAPUL AND TREK TO GHANDRUK – 4/5 HRS
Activities: Drive 2 hours to Nayapul; trek past rice paddies and villages to reach Ghandruk. Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village, has been described as one of the world’s most beautiful villages with cobblestone pathways, scenic mountain vistas, and cultural history.
5
Day
GHANDRUK TO CHHOMRONG – 5/6 HRS
Activities: Ascend through forests and descend into the Chhomrong Khola before a final climb.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Chhomrong.
6
Day
CHHOMRONG TO BAMBOO – 4/5 HRS
Activities: Descend and cross the suspension bridge; walk through forest trails to arrive at Bamboo.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Bamboo.
7
Day
BAMBOO TO DEURALI – 4/5 HRS
Activities: Trek through dense forests with glimpses of Machhapuchhre and glacial rivers.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Deurali.
8
Day
DEURALI TO ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP – 6/7 HRS
Activities: Pass Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and gradually climb into the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Accommodation: Teahouse at Annapurna Base Camp.
9
Day
ABC TO BAMBOO – 6/7 HRS DESCENT
Activities: Early morning views at Annapurna Base Camp, then retrace steps down to Bamboo.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Bamboo.
10
Day
BAMBOO TO JHINU DANDA (1,780M) – 5/6 HRS
Activities: Trek back through Chhomrong and descend to Jhinu Danda for a hot spring soak.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Jhinu Danda.
11
Day
JHINU DANDA TO NAYAPUL AND DRIVE TO POKHARA – 6 HRS
Activities: Final day of trekking through lowland villages, drive back to Pokhara.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel.
12
Day
POKHARA – FREE DAY
Activities: Free day to explore Pokhara, and to indulge in several activities such as boating, or simply sit by the lake with a book.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel.
13
Day
FLY TO KATHMANDU
Activities: 25-minute flight back to Kathmandu, rest or optional sightseeing.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel.
14
Day
DEPARTURE
Activities: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.
Gallery
Dive into our curated travel styles and find the perfect adventure that speaks to your heart.
Pack Smart, Climb Strong
Not sure what to bring?
Our quick guide covers all the mountain essentials.
Explore our curated routes or reach out for a custom plan — your Himalayan adventure starts here.
