Trek Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks. Walk through lush subtropical forests, terraced rice paddies, and traditional Gurung villages before ascending to the stunning base camp at 4,130m. With panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare (Fish Tail), and Hiunchuli, this is one of Nepal's most rewarding treks.
Highlights
- 360-degree panoramic views from Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
- Walk through the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary
- Experience Gurung and Magar village culture
- Lush rhododendron and bamboo forests
- Stunning views of Machapuchare (Fish Tail)
- Relaxing finish in the lakeside city of Pokhara
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A carefully designed itinerary with proper acclimatization to maximize your chances of success.
Scenic 6-hour drive or 25-minute flight to the lakeside city of Pokhara.
Drive to the trailhead at Nayapul and begin trekking through villages to Tikhedhunga.
Climb the famous stone staircase and trek through beautiful rhododendron forests.
Pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill for sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Continue to Tadapani.
Descend through forests and rice terraces to the charming Gurung village of Chhomrong.
Enter the Annapurna Sanctuary through bamboo and rhododendron forests.
Trek through Machhapuchhre Base Camp and ascend to Annapurna Base Camp. Spectacular 360-degree mountain views.
Enjoy sunrise at base camp, then begin the descent through varied terrain to Bamboo.
Trek to Jhinu Danda and enjoy the natural hot springs by the Modi River.
Final trek to Nayapul. Drive back to Pokhara. Celebration dinner by the lakeside.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Airport transfers and ground transportation
- Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
- All meals during the trek
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Porter service
- ACAP and TIMS permits
- First aid kit
Not Included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear and equipment
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (lunch/dinner)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters
Cost & Dates
Trip Cost
- Price based on 2+ person group
- Group discounts available for 4+ trekkers
- Solo traveler supplement may apply
- Custom itineraries available on request
Best Dates
Best Season
Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Oct-Nov)
Duration
10 Days
Start/End Point
Kathmandu / Pokhara
Note: We run trips year-round on custom dates. Contact us to plan your preferred departure date.
Packing List
Here's what we recommend you bring for this trek. Items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu if needed.
Clothing
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Fleece jacket or down sweater
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- T-shirts (3-4)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Gloves (liner + waterproof outer)
- Warm socks (4-5 pairs)
- Underwear (5-6)
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Camp shoes or sandals
- Gaiters (optional)
Equipment
- Backpack (30-40L daypack)
- Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C rated)
- Trekking poles (pair)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2x 1L)
- Water purification tablets
Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
Accessories
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank
- Dry bags for waterproofing
- Snacks and energy bars
- Notebook and pen
Frequently Asked Questions
Moderate fitness is required. You should be able to walk 5-6 hours per day on hilly terrain. Regular cardio exercise for a few months before the trek is recommended.
Yes, the trail is well-maintained and our experienced guides ensure safety. The acclimatization profile is gradual. Avalanche risks are minimal during the recommended seasons.
Winter treks (December-February) are possible but the trail above Deurali may have snow. Temperatures drop significantly at base camp. Spring and autumn remain the best seasons.
Guest Reviews
What our trekkers say about their experience
Maria Garcia
Spain · March 2024
The Annapurna Base Camp trek was magical! Waking up surrounded by the Annapurna massif was surreal. The teahouses were cozy and the food was surprisingly good.
Oliver Brown
Australia · November 2024
Perfect trek for those wanting a shorter but equally stunning experience. The natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda were a perfect way to end the trek.
Yuki Tanaka
Japan · October 2023
Beautiful scenery throughout the trek. The sunrise at ABC was the highlight of my trip to Nepal. Our guide was excellent and very caring about our wellbeing.