Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Destination
Nepal
Accomodation
Teahouse & Lodge
Walking Distance
48 km
Duration
5 Night 6 Days
Max. Elevation
4,130 m | 13,549 ft
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Tea coffee
Best Season
Autumn and Spring
Grade
Moderate

Overview

A complete guide for the Annapurna base camp trek with its cost, itinerary, and best season. ABC trekking is one of the most classical treks that Nepal has to offer, starting with local villages, and slowly making its way to the breathtaking mountain views in the heart of Annapurna region. The sensation of standing on the feet of the tenth-highest peak itself piques the interest of trekkers throughout the world, hence there are thousands of tourists trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp every year. The Guided tour to annapurna base camp will become one of the best memories in the Himalayas of Nepal, which you will remember for life time.

ABC trekking Trip Highlights:
    • Explore not one, but two base camps: Machhapuchre Base Camp (3,700 m | 12,140 ft) and Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m | 13,550 ft).
    • Marvel at stunning mountain scenery and otherworldly views along the route from MBC to ABC.
    • Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush terraced rice and paddy fields to serene alpine meadows.
    • Witness the traditional way of life and rich culture of the Gurung and Chhetri communities.
    • Rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda, washing away trekking fatigue.
    • Reach an altitude of 4,130m (13,550 ft) and complete the trek to and from Pokhara in just 6-7 days.
    • Experience Homestay accommodations, living like a typical Nepali in villages like Chhomrong, Sinwa, and Ghandruk (Options provided).
    • Encounter a variety of birds and wildlife as you traverse the captivating forests.
    • Create lasting memories with a Himalayan vacation in Nepal that will stay with you forever.

Where is Annapurna Base Camp Located?

    The Annapurna Base Camp is located in the northern part of central Nepal within the Annapurna Rural Municipality 10, Ghandruk, Kaski district of Nepal.  The Annapurna shares the border with Manang districts as well. While trekking from Pokhara, it takes seven days to complete the whole ABC trek. Starting from Pokhara we reach base camp within four days with proper acclimatization and then trek down to Pokhara in the next three days.

    The 20-minute helicopter flight takes you to the Annapurna Base Camp if you have very little time, but you can make up for it with a decent amount of money.

    Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Start Point:

    The ABC trek used to start from Nayapul before the road access to Jhinu Danda. Now we drive up to Jhinu Danda on a Jeep and then start our ABC trek on foot and stay overnight at Chhomrong.  The drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda takes 3 hours, and another 4 hours of trekking from Jhinu takes us to Chhomrong, a charming Gurung village.
    While this may be the standard starting point for Annapurna base camp trekking, you can start trekking directly from Nayapul, to trek the true classical base camp trek to Annapurna.  

    Annapurna Base Camp Trekking End Point:

    The trek ends at Pokhara, but the trekking/walking ends at Jhinu Danda. From Jhinu Danda you can take a sharing Jeep and drive to Pokhara. As we follow the same route while trekking back to Pokhara, you can trek to the Ghandruk village, one of the most famous villages of Nepal, as a side tour during the ABC trek.
    Alternatively, you can also trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara from there. Moreover, if you want to explore the Ghandruk village, and trek to the Poon Hill as well then it can be completed within 10 days from Pokhara and 12 days from Kathmandu. 

    Recently, trekking agencies have been promoting the 5 days Annapurna base camp trek, which is unhealthy and dangerous. The international trekkers live in lower altitudes and don’t have much experience trekking in the diverse land structure of Nepal, which makes it even more risky. Taking them to the altitude of 4,130 m on the second day of trekking is pretty dangerous. Altitude sickness is not a small inconvenience, it can be too late if not responded to immediately. So, instead of risking your life to save a day or two in the ABC trek, you can trek the Mardi Himal Trek in four to five days. Yes, the altitude in the Mardi Himal base camp is higher compared to ABC, however, there are treelines until 3500 m for good oxygen circulation and the trekking is short and comparatively easy. 

    How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

    The trek to the ABC is a moderately difficult trek, which has become more accessible recently. With 5 to 6 hours of trekking every day, it is perfect for beginners with good fitness levels and experienced trekkers who want to enjoy the panoramic views from the base camp during this trek. The difficulty also depends on the season you are trekking, so the ideal seasons for trekking are Autumn and Spring. If you are a beginner, avoid off-seasons like summer and winter.

    While the risk of altitude sickness is minimized with the 6-day itinerary, you still need to be wary of unpredictable weather. Also, rest assured the rescues during the Annapurna base camp trek can be started quickly if any unforeseen circumstances occur during the trekking. 

    Annapurna Base Camp 6 -Days Trekking Elevation:

    The hike starts from Jhinu dada, with an elevation of 1,780 m (5,838 ft) to ABC at an elevation of 4130 m (13,549 ft) via MBC 3,700 m (12,140 ft).
    While the suggested altitude gain per day is 500 m to 800 meter only, trekkers will gain about 800 m to 950 m every day. This is within safety limits as tree lines are up to 3000m, and acclimatization here will be perfect for high-altitude trekking.

    On first day of ABC Trek:
    Highest Altitude: Sinuwa = 2,340 m (7,677 ft) 
    Starting Altitude: Pokhara = 822 m  (2,690 ft)
    Altitude gain: 1520 m (4,986 ft) 

    On second day of ABC Trek:
    Highest Altitude: Deurali = 3,200 m (10,498 ft)
    Starting Altitude: Sinuwa = 2,340 m (7,677 ft)
    Altitude gain: 860 m (2,821 ft)

    On third day of ABC Trek:
    Starting Altitude: Deurali = 3,200 m (10,498 ft)
    Highest Altitude: ABC = 4,130 m (13,550 ft)
    Altitude gain: 930 m (3051 ft)

Overview of Annapurna base camp trekking Cost|Itinerary|Season:

The first day of the Annapurna base camp trekking starts from Pokhara, driving to Jhinu Danda, and trekking to Chhomrong. We will stay overnight at Chhomrong. Here in Chhomrong, you can choose to stay at a local homestay like a typical villager or choose to stay in a lodge.

On our second day, we will trek from Chhomrong to Dovan. From Dovan the Machhapuchchhre base camp is a day's walk. From here, we will trek early in the morning as Deurali is an avalanche-prone zone and a bit risky to cross during the day. The MBC on the fourth day of our trek offers mesmerizing views of Mount Macchapuchre widely known as Fishtail Mountain. The Annapurna base camp lies 2 hours away from here so if you aren’t tired then you can directly trek to the ABC on the fourth day. 

On the fifth day, we trek to ABC from Macchapuchre base camp and spend the whole day appreciating the beauty of the mountain ranges and glacial views. We will spend overnight at the base camp. The next day, we trek down to Dovan and spend the night there.
On the seventh and final day of the ABC trek, we trek back down to Jhinu Danda, soak our bodies in the Jhinu Danda hot springs, and then again drive back to Pokhara.

How are Annapurna base camp trekking food and accommodation? 

The food and accommodation during the ABC trek are pretty basic, just what you will expect in the mountain area of Nepal.

There are teahouse or lodge accommodations that offer a twin shared bedroom with two beds. The amenities are very basic such as beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. Very few hotels in the lower region offer private bathroom facilities during the whole trip. The main emphasis of the tea houses is to provide a basic but comfortable place for trekkers to rest during their journey.

The food during the Annapurna base camp trek features a list of organic products that are perfect to provide essential energy for the trekking journey. Other than that you can find a lot of choices like toast, egg, porridge, soup, pancakes with tea, and coffee as breakfast. 

For lunch options like Nepali Dal Bhat, rice dishes, noodles, spaghetti, pasta, pizza, burgers, dumplings, and other options, for different preferences. Dinner choices are also similar to that of the lunch menu with added items like a warm bowl of soup during the chilly nights.

While you can find various food items on the menu we advise you to stick with the Dal Bhat and vegetables as they are the perfect source of energy during the long trek. We recommend you think about the nutritional needs of your body during the trek, rather than what your tongue determines the best.

What is the Highest altitude during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The highest altitude during the Annapurna Base Camp trekking is the Base camp, at an altitude of 4,130 m (13550 ft). The second highest point is the Machhapuchre Base Camp at an altitude of 3712 m (12179 ft), from where we trek towards ABC. 

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Cost:

The Annapurna base camp trek cost mostly depends on the number of days you want to trek and the number of people in the group. The more people the cheaper it becomes on per person basis.

The detailed Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost breakdown:

Full package basis:
80 $ per person/day which includes:

i)Transportation from Pokhara to Nayapul
ii) Accommodation throughout the trek
iii) Breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
iv) Permits, TIMS, and other taxes
v) Transportation back to Pokhara.
vi)Experienced, Government licensed English-speaking guide 
vii) Every expense of the Guide like food and accommodation
viii) Guide Salary

Excludes:

i) Everything not included in the included section


Half  Package Basis:
55$ per person/day which includes:

i) Transportation from Pokhara
ii)Transportation to Pokhara 
iii)Accommodation during the trek
iv) Breakfast
v) Permits, TIMS, and other taxes
vi) Experienced English-speaking government-licensed guide:
           1) Every expense of the Guide like food and accommodation
           2) Guide Salary

Excludes:
1) Lunch and Dinner
2) Everything not included in the included section

Guide and porter service:

i) Very experienced English-speaking guide for 30$ per day.
        1) His food and accommodation
        2) His salary

ii) Porter (carrying max 20 kg) for 25$ per day
        1) His food and accommodation
         2)His salary

Alternative routes to Annapurna Base Camp 7-Day:

Day 1: Pokhara to Ghandruk drive and trek to Chhomrong (Drive 3 hrs & trek 5 hrs):

The drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk is just what you would ask for, during the start of the ABC trekking. From Annapurna I to the tip of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV,  Annapurna II, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre, you can enjoy all these mountains during your drive. 

Yes, you can see the mountains from Pokhara as well, however, the drive during this route provides you the sensation of moving closer and closer to the mountains. After 3 hours of driving, we reach the Ghandruk Village. Ghandruk is a famous Gurung village and many tourists visit Pokhara just to stay overnight in Ghandruk village. The traditional stone houses, the local Gurung community, terraced farming, etc add to the appeal of Ghandruk village even more. 

After exploring the village, we have our lunch here and then trek toward Chhomrong. The trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong takes you 5 hours of trekking via Kimrong Danda. The route takes us down, and following the bank of the Modi River, we again ascend for a while. After ascending we leave the Modi River and cross the bridge over Kimrong River. After, crossing the village we reach Jhinu Danda, a place famous for its hot springs. From Jhinu Danda we trek towards Chhomrong. Overnight stay at Chhomrong village.
We can offer you a homestay service, to live like a local in Chhomrong.

Day 2: Chhomrong to Dovan:

After breakfast at Chhomrong, we leave for Dovan. From Chomrong Village, the trail descendants along the long stone staircase through the village, passing the other teahouses and houses on the way. After the long descent, we will cross the suspension bridge over the Chomrong Khola. There can be mules crossing the bridges, so we need to wait for our turn. After, crossing the bridge we then ascend through more small farms. We pass through bamboo and other villages where you can see locals weaving Doko, Nanglo, and so on. Finally, we reach Dovan, after clearing in the forest where there are several teahouses. Overnight stay at Dovan.

Day 3: Dovan to Deurali:

After breakfast at the teahouse, we leave for Deurali. The rich biodiversity along Modi Khola & bamboo forest offers the perfect natural experience. Heading further from here the alpine area/forest clears and becomes thin and finally near Deurali the tree line becomes very thin. One thing you will remember during this trek route is the stunning views of the Macchapuchre, also known as Fishtail Mountain. 

We trek while passing the Himalaya Hotel at first and Hinku Cave, finally reaching Deurali. The avalanche-prone area close to the village looks fascinating and the mountain backdrop adds even more dramatic scenes. Overnight stay at Deurali. From here the trekking itinerary for beginners and expert trekkers is the same, so refer to the itinerary above. 

Day 4: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp, 4130 m (ABC):

We set out early from Deurali after breakfast at the teahouse.  The trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) typically takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on your walking pace. Given the high altitude, we should take it slow and steady. Take short breaks, rest, and stay hydrated during the hike. The path from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is less steep than anticipated.
MBC is about a 2 to 3-hour trek from Deurali. From MBC, it takes a maximum of 2 hours to reach ABC. During the trek from MBC to ABC, you'll encounter small streams, and if you're trekking in February, March, or April, you may walk on snowy terrain depending on recent snowfall.

At Annapurna Base Camp, you're treated to breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8,091 m | 13,549 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m | 24,787 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m | 23,684 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m | 22,963 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m | 24,459 ft), Khangsar Kang (7,485 m | 24,557 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m | 21,132 ft), Singhu Chuli (6,501 m | 21,329 ft), Gandarba Chuli (6,248 m | 20,499 ft), Bharha Chuli (7,647 m | 25,088 ft), and more. The panoramic vista from the base camp is an unforgettable sight. The ridge line extends from Hiunchuli to Annapurna III, encompassing Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Gangapurna, making it a major highlight of this trekking.

Day 5: ABC to Dovan:

Following breakfast at the ABC teahouse, we trek back to Dovan. We start the trek early morning from ABC to cross Deurali before noon. This part of the trek is relatively more manageable, as we'll be retracing the path from the previous day. Descending is generally easier than ascending, particularly at higher altitudes.

Depending on your fitness and your stamina, you can stay at  Bamboo or trek down to Dovan. After trekking for approximately 5 hours from ABC, we will finally arrive at Dovan. We'll spend the night here.

Day 6: Dovan to Chhomrong:

After our breakfast at the tea house, our fifth day of trekking takes us from Dovan to Chhomrong. The trail passes through a lush rhododendron-filled forest, providing a natural experience after our days at higher altitudes. After approximately 5 hours of trekking, we arrive in Chhomrong via the village of Sinuwa.
Teahouses are the typical accommodation option in Chhomrong, offering a comfortable stay. 

Alternatively, for those seeking a more immersive experience of the rural lifestyle of Himalayan villages, we can arrange a homestay. It's important to discuss this option with us before starting the trek, as proper arrangements need to be made for homestay.

Day 7:Chhomrong to Jhinu and drive to Pokhara:

On the final day of our 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek, we begin with breakfast at the teahouse or local homestay. Our trek from Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda is a 2-hour journey, followed by an additional 30-minute trek to reach the soothing Jhinu Danda Hotspring.

In the hot spring, we take in a relaxed bath, washing away fatigue and dirt from our bodies while enjoying a calming sensation. Following this refreshing experience, we trek back to Jhinu Danda and then conclude our ABC trek with a 2 hours drive back to Pokhara.

Best Season to trek Annapurna Base Camp:

The best time to trek the Annapurna Base Camp is similar to other treks in the Himalayas of Nepal. The spring with its greenery and the Autumn with its clear days are the best seasons for Annapurna base camp trekking.  

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Spring:

  • Mid-February to Mid-May
  • Ideal for casual and beginner trekkers.
  • Minimum rainfall, clear skies, and vibrant rhododendron forests.
  • Occasional snowfall for added adventure.
    Annapurna base camp during spring season, filled with snow and trekkers trekking and clicking photo at the information post, clicked by north nepal trek

 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn:

  • September to first weeks of December
  • Universally accepted as the prime trekking season.
  • Dry days, comforting warmth during the day, and chilly nights.
  • Local Harvest festivals and cultural festivities add attractions.
    Annapurna Base Camp during Autumn Season, filled with trekkers enjoying the 360 view of  Annapurna Range.

 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Summer:

  • June to August
  • Challenging with frequent rainfall and muddy trails.
  • Trails filled with leeches, making it less favorable for beginners.
  • Isolated trails appeal to experienced hikers.
  • Green scenery and isolation attract nature admirers.

Winter trekking at Annapurna Base Camp:

  • Mid-December to Mid-February 
  • Snowfall on the trails.
  • Rarely recommended due to heavy snowfall and extreme cold.
  • Isolated trails, the perfect choice for some trekkers.
  • Requires an experienced guide, rescue insurance, and a suitable sleeping bag for extreme cold (up to -20°C).
    Annapurna base camp trekking during winter season

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Photo

February March April Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary for Expert Hikers

  1. day 1

    Drive from Pokhara to Jhinudanda and Trek to Sinuwa

  2. day 2

    Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali

  3. day 3

    Deurali to ABC

  4. day 4

    ABC to Dovan:

  5. day 5

    Dovan to Chhomrong:

  6. day 6

    Chhomrong to Jhinu and drive to Pokhara:

What's Included?

    • All ground transfers by jeep before and after the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
    • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, and his food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance.
    • The best available twin or triple-sharing teahouse accommodation during the trek. 
    • All meals ( 5 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches & 5 Dinners incl. hot drinks ) along the trek.
    • Complete trekking arrangements with the required TIMS for trekkers and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) permit. 
    • First aid medical kit with Oximeter.
    • Trekking poles & Sleeping bag, if necessary. ( return after the trek )
    • Government taxes, TDS, and Office Service charges. ( No hidden charges )
    • North Nepal Trekking achievement certificate.
    • Fresh/Dry fruits along the trek and tea/coffee break during the trek. 

What's Excluded?

  • Excludes anything related to international flight airfares, such as Nepal entry visa fees, excess baggage charges, international flight tickets, etc.
  • Extra night accommodations due to changes in the itinerary.
  • Supporter/porter services for carrying your 30 kg luggage combined during the trekking and their expenses.
  • Personal expenses before the trek (e.g., renting sleeping bags, buying trekking shoes) and during the trek (any shopping, boiled water, tea coffee (if more than 3 times), cold drinks, alcoholic beverages, hot showers, telephone calls, Wifi, cell-phone, camera battery recharges, etc).
  • Travel insurance covers high-altitude helicopter rescue and evacuation and medical costs.
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and porters.
  • Additional costs resulting from delays caused by natural/uncontrollable phenomena such as bad weather, landslides, and changes of plans (itinerary modifications) due to safety concerns, illness, and other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Lastly, the "What's Included?" section does not explicitly list all costs and expenses.

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Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Company Reviews

2024-01-06

5 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

We completed a 5 day Annapurna Base Camp trek with North Nepal Treks and had a fabulous time! Communication with Mohan before the trek was excellent, and we felt well-prepared. Upon arrival we were picked up and met our guide (Shiva) and porter (Don) and made our way to the start of the trek on a long jeep ride.

Typically Annapurna Base Camp is done in 7 days or so, so we knew 5 would be aggressive. It ended up being more difficult than we anticipated (especially living at sea level), but Shiva did an outstanding job keeping us on track and setting expectations. I feel like we really lucked out getting both Shiva and Don as both were *outstanding* and far exceeded my high expectations. With 25 years of experience in the mountain, Shiva seemed to know everything and everyone. We were always staying in the best accommodations and receiving the best meal service. At one point my wife had a small bout of stomach illness at Annapurna Base Camp, and both Shiva and Don were extremely helpful in navigating a stressful situation (she was ultimately fine hours later and we enjoyed a beautiful sunrise view at the top!). Don was also frequently helping us out with various tricky hiking areas, and in taking many amazing photos. We also got very lucky with weather and had perfectly clear views each day.

After a long five days, we made our way back to Pokhara, and at Mohan's office they even arranged for a surprise anniversary cake to celebrate our 3rd anniversary (which occurred on the final day of our trek)! I had mentioned our anniversary casually to Shiva, and it was so awesome they thought to do this!

At some point we will come back to Nepal and do a longer trek, and we will absolutely be doing it again with North Nepal Treks, and requesting both Shiva and Don if they are available to go lead us once again. Everything went extremely well and we are very, very happy with out experience. Everyone at North Nepal Trek's office (including Mohan himself) and our guide/porter were simply fantastic.

Ben Hughes
2024-01-06

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The organization of Mr. Mohan, the head of the agency, gave us a wonderful 7 days in the Annapurna area.
Lalu our guide led us to our long-dreamed-of destination to the MBC and on to the ABC. His care and his professional experience made this advancement possible for us. It was an incredible, fantastic experience. We felt safe and in good hands at all times. Lalu is a wonderful person and funny companion
We will carry this incredibly great experience in our hearts forever

Andrea Schritter

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