The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) is one of Nepal’s most popular and breathtaking trekking routes, offering trekkers an incredible blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Annapurna region, this trek leads you to the foot of the majestic Annapurna massif (4130m), surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and serene landscapes.
Perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, the trek showcases the Himalayan charm, diverse ecosystems, and unique Gurung and Magar cultures along the trail.
With Mountainfit’s 15+ years of expertise, we ensure a safe, well-planned, and enriching experience as you trek through some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth.
Key Facts about Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Location: Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal
- Duration: 13 days (10 days of trekking)
- Maximum Altitude: 4130m (Annapurna Base Camp)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
- Accommodation: Tea houses/guesthouses along the route
- Starting Point: Nayapul (1-hour drive from Pokhara)
Why Trek with Mountainfit Adventures?
- Expert Guidance: Led by seasoned guides with extensive knowledge of high-altitude trekking.
- Safety First: Comprehensive safety measures, including acclimatization and experienced trek leaders.
- Personalized Experience: Small groups for personalized attention and immersive experiences.
- Trusted Service: Known for exceptional service, seamless logistics, and reliable support.
Brief Itinerary for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Day 1-2: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m) and drive to Pokhara (827m). Explore the city of lakes and relax before the trek.
Day 3: Drive to Nayapul (1070m) and trek to Tikhe Dhunga/Ulleri (1540m).
Day 4: Trek to Ghorepani (2860m), passing through rhododendron forests and picturesque villages.
Day 5: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3210m) for a stunning sunrise, then trek to Tadapani (2630m).
Day 6-7: Descend to Chhomrong (2170m), followed by a trek to Himalaya (2920m).
Day 8: Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4130m), passing through Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m) with panoramic Himalayan views.
Day 9-10: Descend through Bamboo (2310m) and trek to Marque, followed by a jeep ride to Pokhara.
Day 11-12: Sightseeing in Pokhara and return to Kathmandu by flight or drive.
Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu.
Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Witness panoramic views of Annapurna I (8091m), Machhapuchhre (6993m), and Dhaulagiri (8167m).
- Explore charming Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong.
- Experience diverse landscapes, from terraced fields and subtropical forests to alpine meadows.
- Visit the famous Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas.
- Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda (optional).
Why Choose Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers an unparalleled Himalayan experience within a relatively short timeframe. The trek is well-suited for first-time trekkers and seasoned hikers alike, thanks to its moderate difficulty and well-established tea house facilities.
Whether you’re looking to conquer new heights or immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek promises a life-changing adventure.
Start planning your trek today and embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!
- Witness breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8091m), Machhapuchhre (6993m), and Dhaulagiri (8167m).
- Explore culturally rich Gurung and Magar villages, including Ghorepani and Chhomrong.
- Visit the iconic Poon Hill for a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Experience diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows.
- Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda (optional).
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, meet our team for a warm welcome. Transfer to Hotel Manang for check-in. Briefing about the trek and free time to explore the city. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara (827m) | 200 km | 7-hour drive
Drive west from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist coach. Enjoy the scenic journey along the Trishuli River, with views of terraced fields and rolling hills. Arrive in Pokhara and check in to your hotel. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
Day 3: Pokhara to Nayapul (1070m) to Tikhe Dhunga/Ulleri (1540m) | 10 km | 3.5-5 hours trek
Drive 1 hour to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. Begin trekking through terraced fields and small villages, reaching Tikhe Dhunga or Ulleri. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 4: Tikhe Dhunga/Ulleri to Ghorepani (2860m) | 12 km | 6-7 hours trek
Ascend steep stone steps through rhododendron forests and traditional villages. Arrive at Ghorepani, a beautiful village with stunning views of the Annapurna range. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 5: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210m) to Tadapani (2630m) | 12 km | 6-7 hours trek
Start early to hike up to Poon Hill for breathtaking sunrise views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Return to Ghorepani, have breakfast, and continue trekking to Tadapani through dense forests. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 6: Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170m) | 10 km | 6 hours trek
Descend through forests and cross suspension bridges, followed by a steady climb to Chhomrong. Enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 7: Chhomrong to Himalaya (2920m) | 10 km | 6 hours trek
Trek down to the Chhomrong River, then ascend through bamboo and rhododendron forests, passing Dovan and Bamboo villages to reach Himalaya. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 8: Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m) | 12 km | 6-7 hours trek
Climb steadily, passing Hinku Cave and Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Continue to Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 9: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m) | 13 km | 7 hours trek
Descend through the same trail, enjoying different perspectives of the stunning landscapes. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 10: Bamboo to Marque (1780m) | 10 km | 7 hours trek + 3-hour jeep ride to Pokhara
Trek downhill to Marque village, passing lush forests and small settlements. From Marque, drive 3 hours by jeep to Pokhara. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
Day 11: Pokhara City Exploration (827m)
Enjoy a relaxing day exploring Pokhara. Visit Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and the World Peace Pagoda. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
Day 12: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1350m) | 25-minute flight
Take a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Spend the day exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites or shopping for souvenirs. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 13: Final Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your onward flight. Depart with unforgettable memories of your Annapurna adventure.
What is included in the tour
- National Park and Conservation Area Permits, including TIMS Card.
- All airport transfers (domestic and international) in private vehicles.
- Transportation during the trek, including:
- Road transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
- Accommodation:
- Lodge accommodation during the trek on a twin-sharing basis.
- 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
- Experienced trekking guide and assistant guide (as per group size).
- First aid kit for emergencies.
- Merchandise from Mountainfit Adventures.
What is NOT included in the tour
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at the airport).
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
- Personal expenses, including:
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except those included).
- Snacks, beverages, and bottled water during the trek.
- Laundry, phone calls, and internet usage.
- Trekking gear and personal equipment (can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu/Pokhara).
- Bag offloading/porter charges beyond the included weight limit.
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (at your discretion).
- Optional activities in Kathmandu and Pokhara, such as sightseeing tours or adventure sports.
- Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances, such as delays, strikes, or natural disasters.
- Any item not mentioned in the "Inclusions" section.
1. Flights
- Book Early: Due to high demand, especially during peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), it’s recommended to book your flights to Kathmandu and from Pokhara well in advance.
- Flight Delays: Domestic flights in Nepal, especially the Pokhara-Kathmandu route, may experience delays or cancellations due to weather conditions, so always plan some buffer time in your itinerary.
- Allow Time for Kathmandu Exploration: Arriving a day or two before your trek starts gives you time to acclimatize, rest, and explore Kathmandu.
2. Weather
- Check the Weather: The weather in the Annapurna region can be unpredictable. Be prepared for rain or snow, especially at higher altitudes. Always check the forecast before setting out each day.
- Layer Your Clothing: The weather varies greatly with altitude. Dress in layers, with moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer. This helps you adapt to changes in temperature throughout the day.
- Pack for All Seasons: While it can be warm in lower altitudes, temperatures can drop drastically at night in higher regions, so pack a good sleeping bag, warm jacket, gloves, and hat.
3. Money
- Carry Local Currency: The local currency (Nepalese Rupee) is necessary for personal expenses like snacks, beverages, or souvenirs in the tea houses. ATMs are available in Pokhara and Kathmandu, but not on the trek route, so carry enough cash for the duration of your trek.
- Credit Cards: While some shops in Pokhara may accept cards, most places on the trek will not, so ensure you have enough cash for your needs.
- Tipping: It’s customary to tip guides, porters, and drivers for their services. The tip amount depends on the level of service, but an average tip for guides is around $10 per day, and $5 per day for porters.
4. Fitness
- Physical Preparation: While the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, a good fitness level is crucial. Engage in cardiovascular and strength training exercises, focusing on endurance, stamina, and leg strength (e.g., hiking, running, squats).
- Acclimatization: Make sure to follow a slow pace and allow proper rest and acclimatization at higher altitudes. Overexertion can lead to altitude sickness, so it's essential to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of water, and ensure you are eating energy-dense foods (like nuts, energy bars, and fruit) throughout the trek to maintain your energy levels.
Additional Tips:
- Packing: Ensure you pack only what is necessary. Lighten your load to avoid unnecessary strain while trekking, as it will enhance your experience.
- Stay Positive: Trekking in the Himalayas is both challenging and rewarding. Keep a positive attitude, and be prepared for the physical and mental challenges that will come along the way!
