Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a breathtaking adventure that takes you deep into the heart of Nepal’s Annapurna region. This iconic trek offers stunning panoramic views of towering peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m).
Winding through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and charming Gurung villages, this trek provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. The trail leads to the majestic Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering an unforgettable sense of peace and awe.
With moderate difficulty and well-established trails, the ABC trek is ideal for nature lovers and mountain enthusiasts looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes with warm Nepalese hospitality.
Trip highlights
- Breathtaking Mountain Views – Witness stunning panoramas of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and more throughout the trek.
- Annapurna Sanctuary – Reach the heart of the Annapurna Himalayas, a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.
- Diverse Landscapes – Trek through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows, offering ever-changing scenery.
- Gurung & Magar Culture – Experience the rich culture, traditions, and warm hospitality of the local communities in villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong.
- Spectacular Sunrise – Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna range from Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill (optional side trek).
Itinerary
Arrive at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will be greeted by our friendly representative. Please look for a sign with your name as you exit the Arrival Terminal Hall after collecting your luggage. You will be escorted to your hotel for check-in.
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, known for its rich history, medieval streets, wooden temples, and decorated palaces. The city offers a fascinating blend of tradition and culture.
Upon arrival at the hotel, you will be offered a welcome drink and the room key. Before you check into your room, a short trek briefing will be held to ensure you're well-prepared for the trekking adventure ahead. Our guide will provide all necessary details, so you’re equipped for the journey.
We recommend arriving in Kathmandu during the morning or day to allow for rest, adjust to the time zone, and explore Thamel, a popular tourist hub for trekking gear and shopping.
🍽️ Meals Included: None
🏨 Accommodation: Standard Hotel
🗺️ Altitude: 1336 Meter
After an early breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive along the Trisuli and Marshyangdi River, offering stunning views of the Ganesh Himal and Mount Manaslu mountains.
The tourist bus departs from Kantipath around 7:00 am to 7:30 am daily. We will provide pickup and drop-off services to and from the tourist bus park.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check in at your hotel.
In the late afternoon, we’ll organize a one-hour boat ride on Phewa Lake, including a visit to the Barahi Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake. Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal, is a stunning focal point of Pokhara, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The Barahi Temple, dedicated to the female force Shakti, is a beautiful two-storied pagoda-style temple, and one of Pokhara's most significant landmarks.
Enjoy some free time afterward, or take a stroll around the lakeside market for souvenirs and local goods.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast
🏨 Accommodation: Standard Hotel
🗺️ Altitude: 827 Meter
After breakfast, you will be met by our trekking guide and take an approximately 2½-hour drive to Kimche Village (1,640m), where we begin our trek. You may stop for lunch at Kimche before continuing the hike.
From Kimche, we will walk for another 2 hours towards Ghandruk, following a scenic route through terraced fields. The trail will briefly follow a jeep track before ascending stone steps into the village of Ghandruk.
Ghandruk is a historical Gurkha soldier recruitment center and home to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), which works on a variety of ecological projects.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
🏨 Accommodation: Local Lodges
🗺️ Altitude: 1940 Meter
Leaving Ghandruk behind, we begin our trek towards Chomrong, passing through several villages and crossing small streams. The trail ascends via a stone staircase that leads to Kimrung Danda, offering a close-up view of the Annapurna South (7219m), Machhapuchhre (6993m), and Hiunchuli (6441m).
From Kimrung Danda, we will descend through a forest path of oak and fir trees, eventually crossing a suspension bridge over the Kimrung Khola. We then make a steep climb to the ridge, finally arriving at Chomrong.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
🏨 Accommodation: Local Lodges
🗺️ Altitude: 2170 Meter
We set off downhill, descending a long section of steps to the valley floor. After crossing the valley, we ascend the other side through farmland and forest to reach Sinuwa Danda. Continuing on, we pass through lush forests adorned with orchids and ferns, eventually walking through bamboo forests before reaching the village of Bamboo.
Finally, we trek onwards to Dovan for an overnight stay.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
🏨 Accommodation: Local Lodges
🗺️ Altitude: 2600 Meter
Your day begins with a gradual ascent, following the trail above the river through dense forest. Along the way, you will cross two streams and pass through tranquil areas offering beautiful scenery. The trail may offer glimpses of wildlife like wild pigs, deer, and snow leopards.
As you continue, you will reach Hinko Cave and then ascend further to reach Deurali. From here, the trail leads through a riverbed before climbing up the mountainside, where there are avalanche-prone areas, so caution is needed. As you hike further, you will reach Bagar, where the trail continues to Machapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). MBC offers breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Gangapurna.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
🏨 Accommodation: Local Lodges
🗺️ Altitude: 3720 Meter
Today marks the highlight of your trek as you walk into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. You will be surrounded by awe-inspiring views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna II, Roc Noir, Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhare, all towering above you.
The trail leads you directly to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), where you will stay overnight and take in the stunning panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
🏨 Accommodation: Local Lodges
🗺️ Altitude: 4130 Meter
Wake up early to witness the magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas from Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). After breakfast, begin your descent from ABC, retracing your steps through MBC, Deurali, Dovan, and finally reaching Bamboo.
Descending is much easier, and you will pass waterfalls cascading from high cliffs, as well as lush forests with stunning views of Fishtail and Hiunchuli mountains along the way.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
🏨 Accommodation: Local Lodges
🗺️ Altitude: 2400 Meter
From Bamboo, you will ascend steeply to Kuldi Ghar, then continue to Sinuwa, following stone steps that lead you to Lower Chhomrong. Afterward, you’ll tackle a challenging section of thousand stone steps to reach Upper Chhomrong. From there, descend to Jhinu Danda.
Jhinu Danda is renowned for its hot springs, offering you the opportunity to relax your sore muscles. The hot springs are a 20-minute walk downriver along the Modi River through beautiful rhododendron forests. This peaceful dip is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of trekking. (Note: Hot springs are closed during the monsoon season from June to July).
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
🏨 Accommodation: Local Lodges
🗺️ Altitude: 1760 Meter
Today marks the final stretch of your Annapurna Base Camp trek. After breakfast, begin by crossing the bridge and reaching Kyumi village. As you leave the high Himalayas behind, you’ll pass through terraced landscapes and lush greenery, providing a peaceful contrast to the high-altitude trek. The trek to Kyumi village takes about 2 hours. From here, you’ll take a local jeep to Nayapul (approx. 4 hours), and then drive to Pokhara.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have the afternoon free to relax. You can hire a boat on Phewa Lake for a scenic ride or explore the lakeside district, filled with shops offering souvenirs, clothes, and plenty of cafes and restaurants to refuel after your trek.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch
🏨 Accommodation: Standard Hotel
🗺️ Altitude: 827 Meter
After breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey back to Kathmandu. You can choose to either drive or fly back:
By Road:
Take the Prithvi Highway, constructed by the Chinese in 1975. The drive offers stunning views of Brahmin and Chhetri villages, with their ochre-colored houses. Cross the Madi Khola near Damauli, where you may catch views of the Annapurnas. Pass by the Marsyangdi hydroelectric project, and soon arrive at Mugling, where the Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers meet. The road ascends to the Kathmandu Valley rim, offering breathtaking zigzag views before reaching Kathmandu.
By Air:
Alternatively, you can take a 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu for an extra cost of USD 99 per person, which includes airfare and transport in both cities.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check-in at your hotel. You have the evening free to relax, do last-minute shopping, or join a celebratory dinner with your trekking guide.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch
🏨 Accommodation: Standard Hotel
🗺️ Altitude: 827 Meter
Today marks the end of your incredible journey in Nepal! After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight time.
We hope you have enjoyed the adventure and that Nepal has left you with unforgettable memories. We look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure in this beautiful country!
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast
🏨 Accommodation: Standard Hotel - Check out
🗺️ Altitude: 1336 Meter
What’s Included
When you board on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the inclusions may vary depending on the specific trekking package. However, a typical guided trekking package will generally cover the following:
- Permits and Fees - i). Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area. ii). Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: A registration card that helps track trekkers for safety and emergency purposes.
- Transportation - i) Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu tourist bus tickets: Transportation (car/Van/Hiace/Bus depending on group size) to the starting point of the trek. ii) Local transport: In some cases, local transport might be included for transfers between villages or to/from trailheads. iii) Arrival and departure
- Guide and Porter - i) Licensed Trekking Guide: who is familiar with the trail, can provide valuable cultural insights, and ensure safety on the trek. ii) Porter: porter to carry your gear (usually up to 10 kg). This makes the trek more comfortable, especially with the varying altitudes and terrain.
- Accommodation - i) Standard hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and during trekking Tea Houses/Lodges: Accommodation is typically provided in tea houses or guesthouses along the route. These are basic but comfortable, offering rooms with beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. A tea house or lodge is available in most villages along the trail. ii) Room and Board: Accommodation is generally on a full-board basis, meaning breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. Most meals are Nepali-style dishes (like dal bhat, noodles, mamos), although some lodges offer Western options.
- Meals - Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. Tea house meals typically consist of traditional Nepali food such as dal bhat (lentils and rice), momos (dumplings), soups, and noodles during trek and breakfast at Kathmandu and Pokhara ii) packages also include snacks (energy bars, fruits, etc.), though drinks (other than tea or water) might be extra.
- Insurance (for Guide/Porter) - Insurance: Reliable trekking agencies provide insurance for your guide and porter, covering emergency evacuation and accidents.
- First Aid Kit - Guides usually carry a basic first aid kit for emergencies, although it’s recommended to bring your own personal first aid supplies, especially for common trek-related issues like blisters, headaches, or digestive issues.
- Communication (Emergency) - In case of emergency, there may be access to satellite phones or radio communication in remote areas.
What’s Not Included
- International Flights - Airfare to and from Nepal is not included in the trekking package.
- Travel Insurance - While the guide and porter might be insured, trekkers are expected to arrange their own travel insurance covering trekking-related activities.
- Personal Expenses - Items such as snacks, drinks (including bottled water, soft drinks, or alcohol), and personal items (like toiletries) are generally not included.
- Visa Fee - The cost of obtaining a Nepal visa is not included in the package.
- Tips - While not mandatory, tips for your guide and porter are generally appreciated and expected.
- Extra Services - Optional services, such as extra accommodation, extra meals, or activities (e.g., paragliding, yoga classes), are generally not included.
- Trekking Gear - sleeping bags, down jackets, or trekking poles, though it’s often better to bring your own high-quality gear. You basically rent gear on cheap price.
FAQs
The ABC trek is considered moderate. It involves daily hikes of 5–7 hours with some steep ascents and descents. A reasonable level of fitness is required, but no technical climbing experience is needed.
The best seasons for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp are:
- Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms and clear skies.
- Autumn (September–November): Stable weather and excellent mountain views.
- Winter (December–February): Cold but quieter trails with occasional snowfall.
The highest altitude is 4,130 meters (13,549 feet) at Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).
Prior trekking experience is not mandatory, but being in good physical shape helps. Regular cardio workouts, hiking, and leg-strengthening exercises are recommended.
Yes, you need the following permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Your trekking agency will arrange these for you.
Accommodation is in local lodges (teahouses) with basic but comfortable facilities. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with common or attached bathrooms. In major stops like Pokhara and Kathmandu, hotels with standard amenities are provided.
You will receive three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). The menu typically includes Nepali, Tibetan, and continental dishes such as Dal Bhat (rice & lentils), noodles, pasta, soups, momos, and pancakes.
Yes, safe drinking water is available at lodges. You can:
- Refill your bottles with boiled water (available for a small fee).
- Use water purification tablets or a filter.
- Buy bottled water (not recommended due to environmental concerns).
Key items include:
- Trekking boots (comfortable & well-broken-in)
- Warm clothing (layers, fleece, down jacket)
- Rain gear (especially during monsoon season)
- Sleeping bag (recommended for colder months)
- Trekking poles (helpful for descents)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen & hat (for sun protection)
- First-aid kit & personal medications
Yes, altitude sickness can occur above 3,000m. To minimize the risk:
- Ascend gradually and take acclimatization breaks.
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
- Be aware of symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness).
- Descend if symptoms worsen.
Wi-Fi is available in most lodges (for a small fee), but connectivity may be unreliable. Mobile networks work in some areas (NTC & Ncell SIM cards provide better coverage).
In case of serious altitude sickness or injuries:
- Immediate descent is recommended.
- Emergency helicopter evacuation is available (ensure you have travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking).
- Local medical posts and lodges can provide first aid.
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. It should cover:
- High-altitude trekking (up to 4,130m)
- Emergency medical evacuation (including helicopter rescue)
- Trip cancellations & lost baggage
Yes, the trek can be done solo, but hiring a guide and/or porter is recommended for safety and a better experience.
Road Map
