Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC Trek) stands out as one of the most popular and picturesque base camp treks in Nepal, nestled in the heart of the Annapurna region. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges, this trek winds through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, charming villages, and a rich array of flora and fauna.
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is classified as moderately difficult, the trek does not demand technical climbing skills but involves challenging aspects such as steep ascents, descents, and elevation changes. Annapurna Base Camp is a high-altitude glacial basin north of Pokhara and lies at an altitude of 4,130 meters below a ring of eleven major peaks of Nepal.
The main attractions of the Annapurna Base Camp trek are reaching Annapurna Base Camp and the breathtaking views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m).
There are several starting and ending points for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. However, if you have sufficient time, we recommend combining a visit to Ghorepani Poon Hill with Annapurna Base Camp. This trek begins at Nayapul and concludes at Dhampus Phedi. It represents the longest version of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Alternatively, it is possible to conclude the trek in Nayapul or Simrung village to reduce the overall trekking duration.
Nayapul is about an hour's drive from Pokhara. From Nayapul, you will first trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill (3,210 m). Poon Hill is an excellent vantage point for the entire Annapurna region. It offers magnificent views of the mountains, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,041 m), Bharha Shikhar (7,647 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,434 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna II (7,939 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Lamjung Himal (6,988 m), and many other snow-capped mountains. Additionally, it provides a magnificent view of the sunrise.
After visiting Poon Hill, the trek continues to Tadapani, Chhomrong, Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, Deurali, and finally reaches Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m) and Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). However, some trekkers go to Annapurna Base Camp first and come back via Ghorepani Poon Hill on the way back.
After relishing the experience at Annapurna Base Camp, you will proceed towards Chhomrong Village using the same route you took to reach Annapurna Base Camp. Trek down from Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda. Near Jhinu Danda, there are natural hot springs that you can visit and enjoy a bath if you are interested – it could be a pleasant experience during the trek.
After Jhinu Danda, you will reach the bank of the Modi River downstream. Nowadays, motor road access to Simrung is about a 20-minute walk from Jhinu Danda. If you are tired or don't have time to trek to Dhampus Phedi, take a local jeep to Pokhara. From the banks of the Modi River, you will continue trekking almost upstream to Landruk village, Tolkha, and Pitam Deurali.
But you will trek down from Pritam Deurali to Pothana, Dhampus village, and Dhampus Phedi. The trek concludes here, and you'll proceed to Pokhara by private transport. The following day, either take a tourist bus or a flight back to Kathmandu.
16 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek includes 11 days trekking (13 days from Kathmandu), one day sightseeing in Kathmandu and two days for arrival and departure from Kathmandu.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Stand at the Annapurna Base Camp surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers, and a breathtaking amphitheater of mountains.
- Reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, nestled beneath the iconic Fishtail Peak, and enjoy stunning mountain vistas.
- Experience beautiful mountain meadows, lush forests, terraced fields and the varied landscape of the Annapurna region.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other peaks.
- Visit to Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
- Encounter diverse ethnic communities, including Gurungs and Magars, and experience their unique cultures, traditions, and warm hospitality.
- Encounter diverse flora and fauna, including orchids, bamboos, rhododendrons, and a chance to spot wildlife such as Himalayan tahr and various bird species.
- Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, providing a soothing experience after days of trekking.
- Visit to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city, the best place to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Stay overnight in teahouses along the route, rest, enjoy local food and share experiences with other hikers.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost
The cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trekking package depends on various factors. These include the duration of the trek, the size of the group (Larger groups might be able to negotiate better rates, while solo trekkers or small groups may pay a premium for personalized services), the level of services included (budget, standard, luxury) and the reputation and standard of the trekking company you choose.
The Alpine Adventure Club announces the cost and some fixed departure dates for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for groups joining in 2024 and 2025, the cost includes the standard service. If you wish to participate in a private trek, the cost will be different.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek 16 Days Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival and transfer to hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation
Day 03: Kathmandu to Pokhara (850m) drive by Tourist Bus
Day 04: Pokhara Drive to nayapul trek to Tikhedhunga (1577 m)
Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2855 m)
Day 06: Visit Poon Hill then trek to Tadapani (2610 m)
Day 07: Trek to Chhomrong (2170 m)
Day 08: Trek to Dovan (2600 m)
Day 09: Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 m)
Day 10: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m)
Day 11: Trek to Bamboo (2310 m)
Day 12: Trek to Jhinu Danda (1780 m)
Day 13: Trek to Pothana (1900 m)
Day 14: Trek to Dhampus Phedi drive to Pokhara (850 m)
Day 15: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1350m) drive by Tourist Bus
Day 16: Drive to Airport for flying your own destination