Annapurna Base Camp Trek 14 Days

Tour Info

Trip code

E-012

Starting Point/ End Point

kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/Tea House

Max Altitude

4,130 meters

Duration

14 days

country

Trip grade

Easy

Best Season

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)

Highlights

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.
  • Catch the renowned ‘sunrise' at Poon Hill.
  • Explore traditional villages of Gurung and Magar.
  • Go through the beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests.
  • Beautiful panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli and Dhaulagiri.
  • Visit the beautiful Annapurna Sanctuary.
  • Hike to Annapurna Base Camp at 4130m.
  • Savor in Jhinu Danda natural hot springs.
  • Discover the culture, hospitality and mountain life.
  • An exciting trek through the mountain highlands of the Himalayas for all mountain and nature lovers.

Overview

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most scenic and fulfilling treks in Nepal. The journey leads you through the picturesque mountain villages, terraced fields, rhodoland forests and through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes into the Annapurna Sanctuary in 13 days. Along the way, you will cross through some of the traditional villages of the Gurung and Magar peoples, and witness the warmth and charm of their people. On the way, you will experience an incredible scenic view of some of the famous mountains in Nepal including the majestic peaks of Annapurna, Machapuchare and Hiunchuli.

Poon Hill is one of the most spectacular views in Nepal and a highlight of the trek; as a result these sites are best seen early in the morning, when you can see a beautiful display of sunrise over the Himalayas. From there the hike takes you higher into the mountains to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m), hemmed-in all around by many high snowy peaks. It's an easy trek for everyone with a moderate level of fitness and is the ideal combination of mountain landscapes and cultural highlights along with an incredible trekking experience.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival and trek briefing & welcome Dinner

As soon as you arrive in the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and take you to your hotel. Once you have arrived at the hotel, you check in and rest from your travel before venturing to the nearby streets or simply sitting back in the hotel.

In the evening, you'll meet your trekking guide and other trekkers and get a thorough briefing on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Your guide will give you key details of the trail, the weather and preparations for your adventure. Later, have a traditional Nepali welcome dinner, and you will get an initial taste of Nepali hospitality!

  • Max Elevation: 1,400m
  • Travel Distance: Airport transfer only
  • Travel Hours: Approximately 30 minutes
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meals: Welcome Dinner 
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

In the morning, we depart Kathmandu for Pokhara on a touristic bus through scenic routes. It passes along meandering mountain roads on the banks of scenic rivers and mountainous regions, surrounded by small villages. Throughout the journey, enjoy fresh air, gorgeous mountain views and glimpse the rural life of Nepal.

After a few hours on the road we reach the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, the door to the Annapurna region of Nepal. The rest of the day is under the parent's control and all that is left for them to do is to rest, go for a walk on the lakeside and just get ready for the trekking experience that awaits tomorrow. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,400m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 200 km
  • Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
  • Meals: Breakfast 
Day 3: Drive from Pokhara more than one to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedunga

Breakfast is served and we head through the city for approximately an hour to Nayapul where our hiking really gets under way. The trail runs along the Bhurungdi Khola River, taking one through small towns, fields and lovely countryside. Visit local villages, and have our first taste of life in the Annapurna region.

The trail begins to climb towards the tranquil village of Tikhedhunga in green rolling hills with a stream flowing through the middle of it. Enjoyed a nice first trekking day, giving us a chance to get the feel of the trek in the groove.

  • Max Elevation: 1,540m
  • Travel Distance: Drive: 40 km | Trek: 9 km
  • Travel Hours: 1.5-hour drive and 4 to 5 hours trekking
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 4: Trek to Gorepani

The trek is a bit more difficult today, while we're putting on a lot of ground in elevation. After breakfast time we go on an uphill journey climbing the steps for 2 to 3 hours before ascending through the traditional villages and even more beautiful rhododendron forests. The spring is particularly beautiful with the hillsides highlighted with colorful flowers.

The scenery gets even better as we move higher up the mountain. On a good weather day, you will be able to see amazing views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri that tower over the other hills and valleys around us. In the late afternoon, we reach the quaint little village of Ghorepani with its forests and mountains. After spending some time resting in our tea house, we prepare for the morning hike to Poon Hill.

  • Max Elevation: 2,860m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 12 km
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: early morning hike to poonhill view point for sunrise then trek to tadapani

In the early morning, we walk to Poon Hill, one of Nepal's most popular viewpoints. Shadowed by the rays of the rising sun, snow covered mountains such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare and a few others slowly fade into golden hue, making for an unforgettable experience.

Once we have basked in the sunrise and taken some photos it's back to Ghorepani for breakfast after which we trek, again through good-looking forests and ridges, to Tadapani. The path has great views of the mountains and offers a beautiful surround during the daytime. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,210m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 10 km
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 6 : Trek to Chomrong

After breakfast, we leave Tadapani and begin our journey towards Chhomrong. It follows through a lovely forest of rhododendrons and oak forests and crosses small streams and traditional mountain villages. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna, along with the surrounding hills and peaceful mountain scenery. There are several opportunities to stop, rest, and take in the spectacular Himalayan views before reaching Chhomrong. 

We proceed slowly and gradually to reach Chhomrong, one of the biggest gurung villages in Annapurna region,.The village has spectacular views of South Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare and is the beginning of Annapurna sanctuary.

  • Max Elevation: 2,630ms
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 10 km
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Trek to Dovan

Our seventh day includes a very steep trekking route on which we move past Chhomrong and head further into the Annapurna Sanctuary.The trail descends on stone steps to the river before climbing through beautiful bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forests. The further we go down the valley the quieter the scene is to an ever more distant prospect.

Enjoying small towns and great views of waterfalls and mountains. We arrive at Dovan, a quiet train halt nestled among the trees and mushroom forests with the magnificent rock cliffs in the background, in the late afternoon. 

  • Max Elevation: 2,600m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 11 km
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 8: Trek to Machapuchre Base Camp (MBC)

Rising slowly in the upper valley after breakfast, we follow the trail deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary. The forests begin to retreat, giving way to a dramatic alpine landscape of rocky terrain and towering snow-capped peaks before crossing Hinku cave. Passing through Deurali, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains as the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular.

The imposing Fishtail Mountain, also known as Machapuchare, rises majestically above the valley as we continue climbing higher. We also explore Hiunchuli, taking in its striking beauty alongside the surrounding Himalayan giants. By afternoon, we reach Machapuchare Base Camp, where you'll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the iconic Machapuchare from every direction.

  • Max Elevation: 3,700m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 9 km
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 9: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

Following, after breakfast, a hiking track into the Annapurna sanctuary, following an easy route. It is an amazing natural amphitheatre with some of the highest mountains of the Himalayas.

After a few hours of trekking, we finally arrive at Annapurna Base Camp. From here, you get to enjoy phenomenal views of Annapurna South, alongside Annapurna I, which is the tenth tallest mountain in the world and is considered as one of the most beautiful mountains of the world, including South Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare and more. Take in the fantastic mountain views and enjoy the day for the accomplishment. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,130m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 7 km
  • Travel Hours: 2 to 3 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinne
Day 10: After stunning sunrise views trek down to Bomboo

Annapurna glacial trek is a wonderful opportunity to witness the beautiful dawn over the Annapurna range in the early hours. When the sun is just rising over the snowy summits, the mountains of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Hiunchuli peak begin to take on their stunning hues of gold, orange, and purple which allow one of the more memorable parts of the walk.

We start our descent from Annapurna lookout point after breakfast. After getting back on the road we cross through Machapuchare Base Camp and Deurali and then crest forest before passing through the valleys again as we descend to Bamboo. The lower level is warmer, and gives a relaxing vibe after our adventure at high altitude.

  • Max Elevation: 4,130m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 15 km
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 11: Hike to Jhinu Danda

Having taken breakfast at the teahouse, you proceed down towards Jhinu Danda through Modi Khola Valley. You have the privilege of walking through the villages of Upper Sinuwa. We journey downstairs from Upper Sinuwa before we reach Chhomoring river bridge, before ascending upsteps towards Chhomorong village. You will have an amazing view of the terraced fields, waterfalls, and the hills under the Himalayas.

Once you reach Jhinu Danda, you get an opportunity to enjoy the natural hot spring bath of Jhinu Danda, which is located 15 to 20 minutes down on the Modi Khola river. These hot baths provide you with a relaxing bath with the help of minerals in the hot water. It is the perfect relaxation point for a person who has been trekking for several days. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,780 meters (Jhinu Danda)
  • Trek Distance: 10 km
  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 12: Drive Back to Pokhara

Following your morning breakfast, you head out from Jhinu Danda for the exciting return drive to Pokhara, thus concluding the Annapurna Base Camp hike. This will take you through the beautiful Annapurna Conservation Area and treat you to spectacular sights such as terraced hillsides, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and local Gurung and Magar villages.

On arrival in Pokhara, check in at your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Enjoy exploring attractions that perhaps slipped past you during earlier days of your adventure, and take time to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the Lakeside.

  • Max Elevation: 822 meters (Pokhara)
  • Travel Duration: 3 to 4 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 13: Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist Bus

The day after breakfast we take tourist bus back to Kathmandu, from Pokhara. The one-way drive takes you past riverways, green hills, and through villages of tradition, as you get one last view of Nepal's beautiful countryside.

There is free time on arrival in Kathmandu to relax, shop for souvenirs and explore the Kathmandu city streets. In the evenings you can have a farewell dinner; you can also have a rather great celebration of the successful completion of your adventure in Annapurna Base Camp.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400m
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 200 km
  • Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast 
Day 14: final Departure

Today is the end of the days of your memorable trek in the Annapurna region. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport, depending on your next flight, for onward transit.

As you pass through Nepal, you leave behind wonderful memories of beautiful mountain scenery, traditional villages, spectacular sunrises and the result: making it to Annapurna Base Camp. Hopefully, we’ll see you again in Nepal for a more Himalayan experience in the near future. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,400m
  • Travel Distance: Airport transfer only
  • Travel Hours: Approximately 30 minutes
  • Accommodation: N/A
  • Meals: Breakfast 

Packing List

Using the proper pack is one of the most important aspects of getting ready for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. As you make an ascent into a day of hiking into the mountains, be prepared for the sudden change in the weather conditions near the base of Annapurna (6,400m), particularly at the higher altitudes. Pack the proper outfit to ensure your comfort, warmth and readiness on the trip. Meanwhile, do limit what you pack to make sure you don't pack on too much of a weight.

General

  • Four-season sleeping bag (0°C to -10°C)
  • Down jacket or warm insulated jacket
  • Daypack (30–40 liters) with rain cover
  • Duffel bag for porter transport
  • Waterproof dry bags or packing cubes
  • Sleeping bag liner (optional)

Upper Body

  • Sun hat or cap
  • Warm knitted hat or beanie
  • UV-protection sunglasses
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Light thermal base layer
  • 2 short-sleeve trekking shirts
  • 2 long-sleeve trekking shirts
  • Fleece jacket or warm pullover
  • Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
  • Down jacket for colder evenings

Lower Body

  • Thermal base layer bottoms
  • 2 pairs of trekking pants
  • Comfortable pants for evenings in the teahouse
  • Waterproof and windproof trousers
  • Hiking shorts (optional)

Hands

  • Lightweight gloves
  • Warm insulated gloves for higher elevations

Feet

  • Warm trekking socks
  • Regular hiking socks
  • Waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support
  • Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
  • Lightweight gaiters (optional)

Undergarments

  • Quick-drying underwear
  • Sports bras (for women)
  • Sleepwear or comfortable clothes for the evenings

First Aid and Personal Medications

  • Personal medications
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm
  • Band-aids and blister treatment
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Pain relief medication
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Basic cold and stomach medicine

Other Essentials

  • Passport and copies of important documents
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or a water filter
  • Personal toiletries
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Toilet paper and tissues
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • High-energy snacks, nuts, chocolates, or protein bars
  • Waterproof bags for valuables and documents
  • Trekking poles
  • Earplugs

Optional Items

  • Power bank
  • Spare batteries
  • Camera and accessories
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Travel adapter
  • Book, journal, or playing cards
  • Binoculars
  • Thermos flask for hot drinks
  • Comb and small sewing kit

What's included

  • Use a private vehicle to pick up or drop off at the airport.
  • 2 nights stay in a Three star hotel in Kathmandu with Breakfast.
  • 2 nights accommodation at high elevation in best teahouse/lodge ( réalisé sur place) during the hike.
  • All trekking meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
  • Domestic round tour flights between Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla.
  • Highly qualified, licensed local Sherpa guide in English.
  • Proper porter for trek.
  • All essential trekking permits including KP EN Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and KP Rural Municipality (RMP) Permit.
  • First aid medical kit carried by guide.
  • A daily health check using oximeter.

What's excluded

  • The visa fee for the entrance of Nepal.
  • International Air fare to/from Nepal.
  • Travel and rescue insurance (required, including emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 6,000).
  • Personal trekking equipment: sleeping bag/down jackets (rent if necessary).
  • Meals in Kathmandu.
  • Individual costs with hot steps, Wi-Fi, charging, drinks, and bottled water.
  • Advice to guides and porters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base camp trek is a moderate trek and is fit for the individuals with fair fitness level. While some experience in trekking is advantageous, it is not required as there is enough time in this trek to acclimate with rising altitudes

What is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

This hike is best done in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). In these months the weather tends to be fairly unchanging and the views of the mountains tend to be best.

Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?

Even though Annapurna Base Camp is at 4130 m, majority of the trekker's do not encounter problems while going up and down. Reduce the risk of altitude sickness by walking slowly, keeping water on hand and following the guide's instructions.

What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

There are local teahouses and lodges all the way up the trail that offer accommodation. The rooms are basic but comfortable and have a cosy home after the walk for the night

Do I need travel insurance for this trek?

In the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, traveling insurance is very pertinent. High altitude adventure and emergency evacuation should be included in the terms of your insurance if you fall ill or injured.

What should I pack for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Comfortable trekking clothing, warm clothing, water-proofs and sturdy trekking boots are essential. Personal medications, sun cream and a water bottle are also helpful to have.

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