The Annapurna Base Camp trek is an amazing journey that blends
adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. A unique trekking experience
is promised by Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). This 4,130 m height trek offers
unmatched views of the Himalayas, peaceful surroundings, and the opportunity to
fully experience Nepal's vibrant culture.
Best Time to Visit Annapurna Base Camp:
The best times to trek to ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) are spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is usually clear, the skies are blue, and the temperatures are moderate which is ideal for trekking.
Annapurna Base Camp Overview
Starting Point : Nayapul
Duration : 7 to 12 days
Max - Elevation : 4,130m
Difficulty Level : Moderate
Best Season : Mar-May, Sep-Dec
Permission : TIMS & Annapurna Sanctuary Permit
Detail Overview
Duration | Depending on your pace it ranges from 7 to 12 days. |
Max - Elevation | 4,130m |
Difficulty | Moderate to challenging – This trail is appropriate for hikers with a basic level of fitness. |
Best Season | Mar-May, Sep-Dec |
Starting Point | Nayapul |
Highlights
The excitement of arriving at ABC, the
hospitality of Gurung communities, and the sunrise views at Machapuchare.
- Stunning Mountain Views: Panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
- Cultural Experience: Visit traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Chomrong.
- Diverse Landscapes: Trek through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows.
- Flora and Fauna: Explore Annapurna Conservation Area, home to wildlife like Himalayan tahr and snow leopards.
- Short Duration: 7-8 days trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).
- Tea House Lodging: Comfortable tea houses offering local food and cozy accommodations.
- Physical Challenge: Moderate trek with rewarding views and altitude experience.
- Natural Hot Springs: Relax in Jhinu Danda's natural hot springs.
- Pokhara Access: Trek begins and ends in scenic Pokhara, a lakeside city with Himalayan views.
Annapurna Base Camp Itinerary
Leaving the Kathmandu city behind, we take a 6 hours’ drive to Pokhara early in
the morning. Moving alongside the Trishuli River and enjoying the amazing view
of green hills, mountains and landscapes we reach Pokhara which is also known as
“City of Lake”. After reaching Pokhara, if the time permits we will do boating
in Phewa Lake and stroll around the lakeside. Relax and prepare for the
adventure ahead. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
After breakfast, you'll take a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (about
1.5 hours), the official starting point of the trek. Upon reaching Nayapul, we
begin our first day of a trek to Ghandruk which takes about 5 hours to reach.
Following the flow of Modi Khola River, we make our way to the village of
Birethanti. We then ascend gradually to Ghandruk relishing the beautiful view of
lowland rice fields. Continuing along the trail, you’ll arrive at Tikhedhunga or
Ulleri, which is located on a hillside and offers beautiful views of the
surrounding area.
Ghandruk is a large Gurung village which offers the stunning view of Annapurna
South (7219m), Machhapuchhre(Fishtail) (6993m), & Annapurna III (7755m).
You’ll spend the night in a local teahouse, enjoying the hospitality of the
region. Overnight at Lodge.
On day 3, you’ll begin your trek to Sinuwa, a journey that takes 6 to 7 hours.
The trail from Ghandruk initially descends and then ascend through steep stone
staircase enjoying the majestic view of Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli
(6441m), Fishtail Mountain (6993m), and Gangapurna (7455m). We also pass through
the densely forested trail full of rhododendrons, oak and pines trees, and few
beautiful villages before finally arriving at Sinuwa. s you gain altitude,
you’ll start to experience the changes in landscape from subtropical forests to
alpine meadows. The views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South become even more
dramatic as you get closer to your destination. Stay overnight in Sinuwa.
On the fourth day, we begin our trek with a mild descends for a while, we then
climb uphill until we reach the village of Deurali, located at 3,230 meters. The
trek takes about 5-6 hours, passing through dense bamboo forests. he higher you
go, the more the scenery changes, with the landscape becoming increasingly
alpine. The rhododendron and oak forests give way to more open areas, and you’ll
start seeing spectacular mountain views. We also stumble across shrines on our
way to Deurali. The air will be thinner here, so it's important to take it
slow and acclimatize. Stay overnight in Deurali, which offers a peaceful
environment and views of Annapurna I and Machapuchare.
Day 5 is the highlight of the trek, where you reach Annapurna Base Camp
(ABC).The trek takes about 4 hours and is relatively short compared to the other
days. However, it’s a steady climb that takes you through MBC (Machapuchare Base
Camp) before you reach the Annapurna Sanctuary.As you approach ABC, you’ll be
greeted by a stunning 360-degree view of towering peaks like Annapurna I,
Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli. This is one of the most stunning
and serene locations in the Himalayas. You’ll have time to take in the views,
relax, and enjoy the incredible surroundings. Stay overnight in a teahouse at
Annapurna Base Camp.
After an early morning sunrise view at Annapurna Base Camp, you’ll start your
descent. Trekking back to Bamboo takes 6-7 hours, retracing your steps through
the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trek from ABC is mostly downhill, but it’s still a
long day of walking. The trail takes you through MBC and Deurali, and then
continues descending through Bamboo. As you descend, the air becomes warmer and
the vegetation starts to change, transitioning back to dense forests and
lower-altitude plants. Bamboo is a quiet, picturesque spot with stunning views
of the surrounding mountains. You’ll spend the night in a teahouse in Bamboo.
On day 7, you’ll continue your descent from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, a small
village famous for its natural hot springs. This 4-5 hour trek is mostly
downhill and will take you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and through
the villages of Sinuwa and Chomrong. Upon reaching Jhinu Danda, you’ll have the
opportunity to relax in the hot springs, a perfect way to soothe your muscles
after days of trekking. Jhinu Danda offers a peaceful setting with views of the
mountains, and you can enjoy a restful night here before the final leg of the
trek.
On the final day of your trek, you’ll trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul (5-6
hours), where you’ll conclude your trekking adventure. The trail is mostly
downhill, passing through the village of Birethanti and other small settlements
along the way. Once you reach Nayapul, you’ll take a short drive back to Pokhara
(1.5 hours). This marks the end of your trek. In Pokhara, you can relax by Phewa
Lake, do some shopping, or simply unwind after your journey. Overnight in
Pokhara or continue to your next destination.