Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is one of the iconic and all-time demanded treks in Nepal. The trek is a complete package of panoramic mountain views, Gurung culture, as well as the unique flora and fauna. It is one of the easiest and shortest treks in Nepal, yet you will be amazed by its beauty. ABC passes through the Machhapuchhre Base Camp which rewards you with a stunning view of the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak. You will visit two base camps in a single trip, and you won't get an opportunity like this anywhere else in the world.

The grandeur of Himalaya, combined with the adventure and easy accessibility to the trail head, attracts more tourists every year. Between international and domestic tourists, this trek alone covers 70% of trekkers in Nepal, signifying how popular this is.

ABC is located 4130 meters above the sea level. This trek takes 7 to 12 days to complete, depending on the pace of the trekkers and the itinerary. You can go directly to the ABC or take detours to Ghorepani Poonhill, Ghandruk, or both. In this trek, you get the opportunity to see rare animals and plants. You also get to interact with the local people, know their lifestyle and culture, like trying their famous homemade apple pie.  You can see spectacular views of the different mountains like Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Mount Dhaulagiri, Mount Mardi and many more.

The trek is not difficult for skilled and experienced trekkers. However, any person who is physically fit can easily do this. You will hike 5 to 6 hours a day in the high-altitude areas. The base camp has large glaciers and is surrounded by massive snowcapped mountains. The panoramic views of glaciers and mountain peaks is what you will remember your whole life.

Best time for Annapurna base camp trek

You can trek to ABC any season of the year. However, trekking during the monsoon is not advisable because of the heavy rainfall which can make your trek difficult, and you won’t be able to see the mountains clearly due to the darker clouds. Plus, mosquitoes, leeches, and the possibility of landslides can make the trek dangerous.  However, if you are a keen biologist, this is the best time for you, as this is the time most of the animals are active.

Autumn, which is from September to November, is the best time to do the ABC trek. During these months, this trek offers you a clear blue sky with moderate temperatures. You can experience the natural beauty with lush greenery and hear the birds chirping. Similarly, spring is another best time to trek because the trail will offer you with beautiful red and white rhododendrons and other exotic flowers at this time.

Trip Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of the most popular and scenic treks in Nepal, offering stunning views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Here are the highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Trekking Highlights

  1. Panoramic Mountain Views:

    • Enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and other towering peaks throughout the trek.
  2. Annapurna Base Camp:

    • Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, surrounded by a 360-degree panorama of some of the highest mountains in the world.
  3. Machapuchare Base Camp:

    • Visit Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m) for close-up views of the sacred and unclimbed Machapuchare peak, also known as Fishtail Mountain.
  4. Diverse Landscapes:

    • Trek through a variety of landscapes, including terraced farmlands, lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, alpine meadows, and high-altitude glacial basins.

Cultural Highlights

  1. Gurung and Magar Villages:

    • Explore traditional villages inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities, experiencing their unique culture, traditions, and hospitality.
  2. Ghandruk Village:

    • Visit Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village with stone-paved streets, traditional houses, and stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.
  3. Local Teahouses:

    • Stay in local teahouses along the trekking route, enjoying traditional Nepali meals and warm hospitality.

Natural Highlights

  1. Rhododendron Forests:

    • Trek through vibrant rhododendron forests, especially beautiful in spring (March to May) when the flowers are in full bloom.
  2. Hot Springs at Jhinu Danda:

    • Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, a perfect way to soothe your muscles after days of trekking.
  3. Modi Khola Valley:

    • Follow the Modi Khola River, crossing suspension bridges and trekking through narrow gorges and wide valleys.

Adventure Highlights

  1. Moderate Trekking Challenge:

    • The ABC trek is moderately challenging, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. It involves daily hikes of 4-7 hours with gradual altitude gain.
  2. High Altitude Experience:

    • Experience trekking at high altitudes, reaching a maximum elevation of 4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp.
  3. Photographic Opportunities:

    • Capture stunning photographs of towering peaks, lush landscapes, traditional villages, and vibrant flora and fauna.

Outline Itinerary:

  • Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu airport meet and greet
  • Day 02: Kathmandu sightseeing + Trekking Preparation day
  • Day 03: Drive to Pokhara by tourist bus. 6 hours. Overnight at Pokhara
  • Day 04: Pokhara Drive to Trekking starting point and then trek to Tikhedhunga(1570m). 4-5 hour Trek
  • Day 05: Tikhedhunga –Ulleri- Ghorepani (2850 m.) 5-6 hrs.
  • Day 06: Ghorepani-Poonhill (3210) - Tadapani(2680m) 7-8 hrs.
  • Day 07: Tadapani - Chhomrong (2140 m.) 5-6 hrs.
  • Day 08: Chhomrong - Dovan (2505 m.) 5-6 hrs.
  • Day 09: Dovan - Deurali (3100 m.) 3-4 hrs.
  • Day 10: Deurali –MBC- Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m.) 5-6 hrs.
  • Day 11: Annapurna Base Camp - Bamboo (2335 m.)5-6 hrs.
  • Day 12: Bamboo – Jinudanda (1610m) 4-5 hrs.
  • Day 13: Jinudanda – Nayapul- Pokhara.
  • Day 14: Pokhara- Kathmandu by Drive or Fly.
  • Day 15: Departure to your own destination or extend the trip.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01 :Arrival at Kathmandu airport meet and greet We will be awaiting your arrival at the Tribhuvan International airport. After you land, leave all the trouble in our hands. We will then transfer you to your hotel. Relax and rejuvenate yourself till the evening. We request you to come and join the welcome dinner to celebrate the glorious trek that lies ahead.
  • Day 02 :Kathmandu sightseeing + Trekking Preparation day You’ve come all the way to Nepal and not exploring the capital city, Kathmandu is not acceptable. Which is why we will take you to explore the various and abundant ancient monuments inside the capital. You will be guided to two different World Heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. Overnight at Kathmandu.
  • Day 03 :Drive to Pokhara by tourist bus. 6 hours. Overnight at Pokhara Today, we travel to the jolly Lake city of Pokhara. If we happen to be going there on a tourist bus, we will depart from the hotel early in the morning. We hope you will enjoy the 6-hour scenic drive through lowlands, rivers, and hills. Another way to get to Pokhara is by boarding a 25-minute mountain flight amidst the Himalayas.
  • Day 04 :Pokhara Drive to Trekking starting point and then trek to Tikhedhunga(1570m). 4-5 hour Trek Early in the day, we take a short drive to Nayapul, which will be the beginning stage of this trek. From Nayapul, we stroll along the Modi Khola and complete the way Birethanti and then to Tikhedhunga. Over night at Guesthouse.
    Note: Nowadays Driving option available by Jeep.
  • Day 05 :Tikhedhunga –Ulleri- Ghorepani (2850 m.) 5-6 hrs. Yet another day and yet another trail filled with adventure await our arrival. Climb through trails beside cascading rivers and walk through fields, blossoming rhododendron forest, and cool oak forests. Ghorepani, one of the biggest Gurung settlements, is the place we spend our night for the day. Over night at Guesthouse.
  • Day 06 :Ghorepani-Poonhill (3210) - Tadapani(2680m) 7-8 hrs. Early morning hike to Poon hill( 3210m) Its about 1 hour hike to arrive Poon hill then after spending some time there we will back to Ghorepani then trek to Tadapani. We encounter one of the key features of our trip, as we catch the enchanting sunrise with a trek in the early hours of dawn. After we gaze at the sunrise and the Himalayan panorama, to our heart's content, we trek down to Tadapani. We get to Tadapani, just in time to catch the sun setting for the day. Overnight at a tea house.
  • Day 07 :Tadapani - Chhomrong (2140 m.) 5-6 hrs. Another calm trek is yet to be conquered. The trail takes us through descents and leads us to the Kimrong stream. We proceed as we come across the Gurung village and eventually to Chomrong which offers us spectacular views of the majestic Himalayas. Overnight at a tea house.
  • Day 08 :Chhomrong - Dovan (2505 m.) 5-6 hrs. Today, we make our way to Dovan. But before that, we traverse through terrace farmlands and villages which goes downhill to the Chhomrong Khola. Another suspension bridge, which leads us uphill through rhododendron forests, the villages of Sinuwa, Kuldighar, Bamboo and onto Dovan. Overnight at a tea house.
  • Day 09 :Dovan - Deurali (3100 m.) 3-4 hrs. After breakfast, we slowly trek to our next destination Deurali. The short trekking day along the shrub land and grasslands to Himalaya. You can see the lovely waterfall along the way. From Himalaya we will walk up to reach Deurali, the way up to Deurali is beautiful. Overnight at Teahouse.
  • Day 10 :Deurali –MBC- Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m.) 5-6 hrs. After breakfast slowly trek to Machhapuchhre Basecamp (MBC). The terrain switches from sub-tropical forest to alpine. Then slowly trek to ABC. Time to achieve and conquer the highlight of our trek! We begin in the early hours with a 2-hour climb ascent which brings us to the Annapurna base camp. Voila! Here we are, at the destination! We assure you tremendously and jaw-dropping up-close views of the Annapurna ranges, Hiunchuli, Tent peak, Fishtail, Gangapurna. Overnight at Tea-house.
  • Day 11 :Annapurna Base Camp - Bamboo (2335 m.)5-6 hrs. After you are done collecting an assortment of memories and pictures, we make our way to Bamboo. Morning enjoys with excellent view, waking up at the foot of the mighty Annapurna I. Then we trek downhill to Bamboo a long and beautiful trekking day. Overnight at a tea house.
    Note: Nowadays staying over night at Annapurna Base is not much places, mostly trekkers staying at MBC and early morning hike to ABC and back. If still snow, early morning hiking and trekking to ABC icy and slippery so we might needed spikes( basic crampons).
  • Day 12 :Bamboo – Jinudanda (1610m) 4-5 hrs. After breakfast trek and enjoy the view of the subtropical forests once more. After 5 hours of the walk, we will reach to Jinudanda, where we will spend our night. This place is eminent for the normal hot spring, where we can loosen up and wash off our tiredness.
    Hot spring: We need to walk down to the river.
  • Day 13 :Jinudanda – Nayapul- Pokhara. From Jinudanda, you will trek back towards Nayapul along the course of Modi River. From Nayapul, you will take a short drive back towards the city of Pokhara. At night, you can investigate the city and its way of life in the Lakeside region which generally takes into account visitors. Overnight in Pokhara. 5 hours trek
    Note: If you wanna arrive Pokhara early you might get jeep from Siwai on extra costs.
  • Day 14 :Pokhara- Kathmandu by Drive or Fly. Eventually, the time has come to say our goodbyes to the charming Lake city of Pokhara. If we happen to be going to Kathmandu on a tourist bus, it will take us almost 6 hours to get there. We hope you will make the most of your final chance to savour the lush forests and White Water Rivers. However, if we happen to be going to Kathmandu on a mountain flight, it will take us 25 minutes amidst the Himalayas. After we get back, take time to relax and rejuvenate yourself and later join the farewell dinner in celebration of your accomplishment.
  • Day 15 :Departure to your own destination or extend the trip. It’s the day to say bid farewell to the beautiful land of Nepal. Our company representative will take you to the airport. In case our country has enchanted you so much you desire to further explore, we are always there to extend your trip.

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off 
  • Drop to Nayapul and Pick up from Nayapul by Private Van
  • Hotel in Pokhara and Kathmandu with breakfast Included
  • Farewell Dinner by Company
  • Trekking Accommodation, Twin Sharing in Basic Tea-house 
  • English-speaking guides/ Who has excellent knowledge.
  • Porters for 2 guest one porter
  • All meals( Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)  with hot tea 
  • Fresh Fruits after dinner every evening.
  • Transportation to and from the trail head
  • All necessary documents and permits for trekking
  • Trekking equipment including sleeping bags       
  • Staff insurance, medication and equipment
  • All Govt. and Local Taxes, First Aid Kit
  • Beautiful T-shirts by Company
  • Free Tripmap
  • Special Caring
  • Trekking Certificate by Destination Unlimited.               

Cost Excludes

  • International airfares, Kathmandu sightseeing and entrance fees
  • Single Supplimentary US$ 250
  • Travel/trekking insurance/ Nepal entry visa fees
  • Domestic flights worth US$ 125 one way
  • Mountain rescue charges or insurance
  • Bottled drinks on trek (cold and alcoholic) and hot drinks which is not mentions above
  • Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Additional food or drink on trek in addition to three standard meals
  • Personal expenses, Emergency Expenses, road blocked, snakes, desert.etc 
  • Which is not mention in email
  • Tips(Tipping are expected)
Rated 5/5 based on 6 reviews
  • Chris Goh
    Singapore

    ABC Adventure

    Rating:

    Thank you Ashok for your excellent service and support in organizing our recent hike to ABC. I would specially like to express my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to your guide, Rai Badal as he was very attentive to our needs and always had our best interest in his planning and execution. He showed constant care, concern and I would not have been able to complete my hike without his support and encouragement. Thank you Badal! You are a gem and my guardian angel!

  • noimage
    Malaysia

    Great trip

    Rating:

    Destination Unlimited came through with flying colors again for us!!! Great job!!!! Helmed by Ashok Niroula, everything was well organized — good lodgings, a wonderful, amicable, responsible guide — in the person of a young man named Badal Rai, who made sure we were safe, comfortable & well fed all the way. It was a wonderful trek — despite rain, hail, snow & a near avalanche above us (Badal reacted very quickly & whisked us to safety to wait it out before continuing onward). Many Thanks Ashok & Badal!!!

  • Burdette A. Sindang
    Malaysia

    Annapurna Base Camp- April 2018

    Rating:

    I did ABC trekking via Destination Unlimited Treks in April this year. Ashok is extremely prompt with his responses, helpful and accommodating. He constantly checked to see if we have arrived at every location, even till the very last day (that I landed safely at my home country). I had a very attentive and experienced guide (Gangga) and porter (Om) to whom I've bonded and grown very fond of throughout my 8 days journey. I was really well taken care of and though I went solo, I felt safe with them. I hope to go again and will definitely do it through DUT. Thanks DUT for making this a memorable experience!

  • Leon Chai
    Malaysia

    Amazing Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp

    Rating:

    Our team have 7 members from Kuching, Malaysia, dated 26/4/2018-7/5/2018, with Destination Unlimited amazing services and guards, we all 7 members managed to trek to ABC within schedule, also with very good trekking guard and 4 porters take care of our daily living stuffs safely. We all have no worries but enjoy every steps and mountains view of Annapurna.

  • noimage
    Netherlands

    Excellent experience and service

    Rating:

    The three of us had an excellent trekking to ABC via Destination Unlimited. From the beginning until the end Ashok (the owner) provided excellent service, very clear and fast communication and perfectly managed the expectations. We would definitely recommend this agency and trip. Also due to the friendly, funny and helpful guide Hari and porters Ira and Raam.

  • Jean Lai
    Malaysia

    ABC: Excellent attention to detail!

    Rating:

    Given that this was my second time here, I wanted to attempt the ABC trek alone, but a recent pneumonia scare and a knee injury a couple of months back made me rethink my initial decision. Meet Yaksha Kumar, my trekking guide from Destination Unlimited Treks, without whom- I couldn't have done it all. His concerns are careful, and even painstaking, but never pedantic. He is silly, honest and kind - a combination of forgotten virtues in today's dog-eat-dog world. He surprises me with local fruits from his bag-pack every now and then, and I try to return the favour with snickers and yogurt bars, which are lame processed rubbish compared to what he offers. He says I exude a melancholic disposition, and I suppose that's why his sunny disposition can be very welcoming when the trek gets challenging. Ashok, the owner, has been very kind and patient in dealing with my questions and requests before and during the trek. He is not a 'business-man', he is a friend, and for this - I will call him again when I return to Nepal to attempt the EBC in 2019.

Q.1. How difficult is Annapurna Base camp trek?

Ans: Annapurna Base camp trek is not as difficult then Everest base camp it even not necessary rope and ice axe, its complete trek by foot. But we needed regular exercise. If reguler excerciser people anyone can make it. 

Q.2. What are the best trekking seasons in Nepal?

Ans: Nepal welcomes most of the trekkers during spring [March - May] and autumn [September - November]. In these seasons, the panorama of the Himalayas is pleasing, the weather is very lovely, and the views typically are transparently clear. Rhododendron flowers blossom in high altitude forests. The scenic view of nature is awe-inspiring which will definitely make you feel cheerful. During winter [December - February], it's very cold in the high altitude. Regardless the panoramic view of the Himalayas, it’s not suitable to trek during winter. However, trekking at lower altitudes is not affected in winter.

Q.3. What’s the weather like in Nepal?

Ans: Weather is a crucial factor for the trip to Nepal. There are four weather seasons in Nepal. It’d be easier for you to plan your journey to Nepal if you know about the weather pattern in Nepal.

Spring: March-May:  Spring is the best season to travel Nepal. This season is considered as the favorite season for trekking in Nepal. During March to April, the weather is clear and the temperature is moderate. The forests are full of blossom, the views of Himalayas are mostly crystal clear, and the atmosphere is joyful.

Summer: June - August: Summer season, also known as monsoon season, is the most difficult season for trekking. In fact, it’s is not a season for trekking as trekking routes are highly affected by the rain. However, city sightseeing tours are possible. Rafting it's also possible which will be fun and adventurous. But there is no chance for peak climbing and expeditions.

Autumn: September - November: Autumn is a favorite trekking season for trekkers all around the world. Every trekking routes in Nepal are full of trekkers. Cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan also welcomes hundreds and thousands of travelers all around the world. The weather is enjoyable and pleasing. The panorama of the Himalayas is transparently clear and spectacular. Also, this season is the season of festivals in Nepal. The tourists join Nepalese in celebrating two biggest festivals in Nepal, Dashain, and Tihar.

Winter: December - February: Winter is not the famous season for the trek. The trekking route in high altitudes will be full of snow. However, you can always take a tour of the city. Pack some winter clothes and you will be good to go.

Q.4. Children's can join this trek?

Ans: Off course can join this trek, children should above 8 years old would be ideal and safe.

Q.5. I am only one person interested for this trek, can i trek solo? 

Ans: Surely can trek solo, there is little bit extra cost for single solo trekkers but you will have private guide. There is group joinig system as well. Contact us for further details.

Q.6. Do i need trekking or travel insurance for this trek?

Ans: Yes better to have own insurance policy in case something happends during the trekking. But annapuna Base camp very less chance to use insurance policy.

Q.7. Any chances to get High Altitude Sickness?

Ans: ABC maximum height is 4130m high so, very less chance get serious high altitude sickness but some tourist from low land or who never been to trekking before can get little be of headache or can feel something but no need to worry its normal.

Trip Map

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Key Information

  • Trip Cost US$ 750
  • Trip Duration 15 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty Moderate
  • Trip Style Trekking
  • Accomodation Hotel + Lodges
  • Max Altitude 4130
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No of people Price P.P
1-1 Pax US$ 750
2-4 US$ 750
6-8 US$ 699
10-12 US$ 650
14-16 US$ 625
18-22 US$ 599