Destination
Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Ultimate 12 Days Itinerary
Duration
12 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Start/End
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Best Seasons
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Transport
Private Car/Jeep
Accommodation
Teahouses/Lodges
Permits
TIMS Card, ACAP Permit
Overview of Annapurna Base Camp Trekking
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most iconic and rewarding Himalayan journeys. It takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna region and brings you face-to-face with some of the most magnificent snow-crowned peaks on Earth: Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and others.
In addition to providing breathtaking views of the mountains, this traditional trail introduces you to the Gurung and Magar cultures, terraced fields, alpine scenery, rhododendron forests, and natural hot springs.
Whether you're a beginner looking for your first Himalayan adventure or an experienced trekker craving a soulful mountain escape, trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is a life-changing experience.
Annapurna Trek Highlights
- Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO heritage sites.
- Scenic drive or flight to Pokhara, the city of lakes.
- Discover Gurung culture in Ghandruk village.
- Trek through lush forests, terraced fields & alpine meadows.
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) with 360° mountain views.
- Stay overnight at Machhapuchhre and Annapurna Base Camps.
- Relax in Jhinu Danda’s natural hot springs.
- Enjoy stunning landscapes and starry nights.
Annapurna Base Camp Itinerary Overview Chart
Day | Activity | Elevation | Duration |
Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,300 m | – |
Day 2 | Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Prep | 1,300 m | 6-7 hours |
Day 3 | Drive/flight to Pokhara | 822 m | 7-8 hours (by road) |
Day 4 | Drive to Ghandruk | 2,012 m | 2.5-3 hours drive |
Day 5 | Trek to Sinuwa | 2,340 m | 6-7 hours |
Day 6 | Trek to Deurali | 3,230 m | 6-7 hours |
Day 7 | Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) | 4,130 m | 5-6 hours |
Day 8 | Trek down to Bamboo | 2,310 m | 6 hours |
Day 9 | Trek to Jhinu Danda | 1,780 m | 5-6 hours |
Day 10 | Trek to Syauli Bazaar, Drive to Pokhara | 822 m | 3 hours trek 2 hours drive |
Day 11 | Drive/”flight” to Kathmandu | 1,300 m | 6-7 hours |
Day 12 | Departure from Kathmandu | 1,300 m | – |
Annapurna Base Camp Day-by-Day Itinerary in Detail
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300 m)
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. After immigration, meet your guide or driver who will transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. Evening walk and optional welcome dinner.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation (1300 m)
Spend your second day in Nepal roaming around the capital, preparing for the trek. Explore Kathmandu's major heritage sites during the daytime:
Swayambhunath
Pashupatinath Temple
Boudhanath Stupa
Patan or Kathmandu Durbar Square
In the evening, attend a pre-trek briefing and check your gear.
Day 3: Drive to Pokhara (7-8 hours) (822 m)
Have breakfast and board a tourist bus early in the morning. The journey passes through hills, river valleys, and charming villages. Arrive in Pokhara by late afternoon.
Spend your time in the heavenly city of Lake, as you will have plenty of time after arrival. Dine at one of the cozy and lavish restaurants on the shore of the beautiful Fewa Lake.
Overnight in one of the luxurious hotels near Fewa Lake.
Note: You can enhance your package by adding an extra day in Pokhara, as the stunning beauty of the city tempts many tourists. You can also take a flight to Pokhara (includes an extra charge).
Day 4: Drive to Ghandruk (2.5-3 hours drive) (2012 m)
Begin your Annapurna journey by driving past Nayapul to Ghandruk village.
As this is a short drive from Pokhara, you will reach Ghandruk Village early, so you have enough time to explore this beautiful village, famous for the Gurung culture and tradition.
You can also visit the old Gurung museum and try on the Gurung dress.
Enjoy cultural charm and fantastic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
Day 5: Trek to Sinuwa (6-7 hours) (2340 m)
After having a local breakfast at Ghandruk Village, begin the hike early.
Descend to the Kimrong Khola, then ascend steep stone steps to Chhomrong. Chhomrong Village is one of the major villages in this route, where you can explore the culture and tradition of the local Gurung community.
Continue the trail through terraced slopes and forests to reach Sinuwa.
Spend your night at Sinuwa.
Day 6: Trek to Deurali (6-7 hours) (3230 m)
Begin your trek early after having a quick breakfast in Sinuwa. You will trek through bamboo and rhododendron forests, passing Bamboo, Dovan, and the Himalaya Hotel.
Eventually, you will reach Deurali, nestled in a narrow valley with towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Enjoy your evening in the peaceful atmosphere of Deurali. One of the best places for meditation.
Overnight at a lodge in Deurali.
Day 7: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (6-7 hours) (4130 m)
Today will be memorable, as you will be heading towards the Annapurna Base Camp, a stunning place surrounded by snow-crowned mountains.
You will ascend via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) into the stunning Annapurna Sanctuary.
Reach ABC (4,130 m) by afternoon. Enjoy a 360° amphitheater of Himalayan giants. Don’t miss the opportunity to take photographs of the stunning mountains around you.
If you are a photography enthusiast, you’ll enjoy clicking crystal-clear images of stars, constellations, and even the Milky Way.
Spend the night at ABC.
Note: Keep your pace slow, and stay hydrated, as today you will cross 4000 m altitude, so there will be a chance of altitude sickness. You can also extend your package by spending an additional day in ABC.
Day 8: Trek down to Bamboo (5-6 hours) (2310 m)
Retrace your steps down to Bamboo after spending a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Annapurna Base Camp.
Passing through alpine meadows and forests, enjoy the tranquil nature.
This day involves a steady descent, offering different perspectives of the route you climbed.
Spend the night at a lodge or tea house in Bamboo.
Note: As you leave Bamboo, be careful on the steps as the climb is steep.
Day 9: Trek to Jhinu Danda (5-6 hours) (1780 m)
After spending the night resting in the peaceful Bamboo, hike back up to Chhomrong.
From there, descend steeply to Jhinu Danda.
You can treat yourself to a rejuvenating dip in the natural hot springs located beside the Modi River. Highly recommended to experience the natural hot spring, which will help you heal from the long trek.
Day 10: Trek to Syauli Bazaar, Drive to Pokhara (2-3 hours trek, 2-3 hours drive) (822 m)
Enjoy your final trekking day with an easy descent from Jhinnu Dada.
Walk downhill through New Bridge to reach Syauli Bazaar, a place famous for traditional meals (Dal Bhat), where a vehicle awaits.
A short drive brings you back to Pokhara for a restful evening.
Day 11: Drive to Kathmandu (6-7 hours) (1300 m)
After breakfast, drive to Kathmandu, passing through rolling hills and villages. Check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring Thamel, a famous tourist area.
Take home handmade souvenirs and consider a massage or spa treatment for relaxation.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell Nepali dinner with traditional music and cultural performances.
Note: You can also take a flight to Kathmandu (including an extra charge).
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu (1300 m)
You’ll be transferred to the airport according to your flight schedule.
Say farewell to Nepal with unforgettable memories of your ABC trekking adventure.
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Essential Packing Guide
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderately difficult trekking route, which requires some basic trekking gear:
Head
Hat or cap
Scarf
Sunglasses
Beanie
Body
Thermal layers
Warm and Waterproof jacket
Thermal Gloves
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Neck buff
Waterproof gloves
Footwear
Trekking shoes
Hiking boots
Warm Hiking socks
Gaiters
Essentials/Equipment
Sleeping bag
First aid kit
Trekking poles & Duffel bag
Water Bottles and Hydration Bladders
Raincoat
High-energy snacks
Reliable oxygen supply
Maps & Compass/GPS
Medicines (if any)
Optional
Powerbank
Books
Camera
Art gears
Any other essentials for your comfort
Note: Don’t carry any unnecessary stuff as it will cause problems for yourself.
Seasonal Breakdown to Trek Annapurna Base Camp
Your experience at Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) can be greatly impacted by the time of year you choose to trek there. There are four distinct seasons in the area, and each has its charms and difficulties. However, because of their consistent weather, excellent visibility, and comfortable trekking conditions, spring (March-May) and autumn (September–November) are generally regarded as the best seasons for the ABC trek.
Autumn (September to November) – Peak Trekking Season
Autumn is one of the most popular times for ABC trekking, all thanks to the post-monsoon freshness that clears the air and enhances visibility. The skies are crisp and blue, the trails are dry, and the mountain views are simply spectacular.
Highlights:
Crystal-clear panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding peaks.
Daytime temperatures are mild (12–20°C at lower altitudes).
Festive atmosphere with major Hindu celebrations like Dashain and Tihar.
Ideal for photography and stargazing at high altitudes.
Spring (March to May) – Second Best Season, Nature at Its Best
Spring is a colorful and vibrant time to trek the ABC route. The trails come alive with blooming rhododendron forests, magnolias, and wildflowers, making it one of the most scenic times to be in the Annapurna region.
Highlights:
The rhododendron bloom turns forests into a sea of red, pink, and white.
Mild temperatures and relatively stable weather conditions.
Excellent for wildlife spotting, especially Himalayan birds and butterflies.
Less crowded than autumn, but still lively with trekkers.
Monsoon (June to August) and Winter (December to February)
Although the Annapurna Base Camp trek is most popular in the spring and autumn, some hikers prefer the winter and monsoon seasons. These times present a distinct set of difficulties, but they also offer unexpected benefits to those who are brave and prepared.
During the monsoon, because of the extreme downpour, the trails are mostly slippery and muddy, and full of leeches. Also, there’s always a risk of landslides.
It is possible to trek to Annapurna Base Camp in the winter, but the temperatures are extremely cold, especially above 3,000 meters. Trails are frequently covered in snow, and nighttime lows at ABC can be as low as -15°C.
Note: It’s highly recommended to avoid trekking during monsoon or winter as the climate is not favorable.
Witness Flora and Fauna in the ABC Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, also called the Annapurna Sanctuary trek, is home to a surprisingly wide variety of wildlife and bird species in addition to being a sanctuary for stunning mountain views and cultural significance.
You can witness a variety of flora and fauna, some of which are rare or endangered, as you ascend from subtropical lowlands to alpine meadows.
The Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA), Nepal's first and largest conservation area, covers an area of more than 7,600 square kilometres. You will encounter mixed forests with habitats of pine, oak, and rhododendron.
Birdwatchers will be thrilled to learn that the Annapurna region is home to over 470 different species of birds. Among the frequently seen ones are the Himalayan Monal (Danphe), which is the national bird of Nepal, the Himalayan Griffon Vulture, the Golden Eagle, the Snow Pigeon, and the Blood Pheasant
Due to human activity, sightings can be uncommon, but your chances are increased by quiet trails and early mornings. The Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, and other notable mammals can be found in the area. If lucky, you can also witness some of the rare animals such as the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear.
Note: Do not disturb the wildlife or pluck any plants during the trek. Leave only footprints and take only memories.
What’s Included in the ABC Trekking Package
Transportation cost
Accommodation
Meal (Breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Guide and Porter
Permit
First Aid
What’s not included in the ABC Trekking Package
International Flight
Nepal visa
Travel Insurance
Beverages (alcohol, soft drinks, or any other)
Personal expenses
Trekking gear and clothing
Add-ons
All that are not in the included list
Altitude Sickness and Safety
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) involves reaching an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), which places it well within the zone where you can suffer altitude sickness. Altitude sickness happens when your body cannot adjust quickly enough to lower oxygen levels at higher elevations.
Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness:
Headache (most common)
Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness or light-headedness
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Shortness of breath at rest
Difficulty sleeping
Safety Tips for Altitude Sickness
Ascend gradually and steadily to give your body time to adjust to the higher altitude.
Maintain proper hydration by consuming three to four litres of water every day to aid in your body's adaptation to decreased oxygen levels.
Steer clear of sleeping pills, alcohol, and cigarettes, as these can exacerbate the symptoms of AMS by suppressing breathing.
Consume enough energy-dense meals regularly to aid in your body's effective acclimatisation.
If your doctor prescribes Diamox (acetazolamide), take it as a preventative measure.
Recognise the signs of AMS. Keep an eye out for headaches, nausea, exhaustion, lightheadedness, and appetite loss.
If symptoms start, stop climbing. If they continue or get worse, rest at the same elevation or go down.
For severe symptoms, descend right away. You may need to evacuate by helicopter if you experience symptoms like disorientation, tightness in your chest, or loss of coordination.
Never disregard symptoms related to altitude; prompt action can save lives. Speak with your guide or medical professional.
Guidelines to Follow During the ABC Trek
To ensure that your trek to Annapurna Base Camp is safe, pleasurable, and careful of the environment and local communities, follow the guidelines.
Walking slowly and steadily, especially at higher altitudes, is essential for adjusting to the increased elevation, and it's crucial to avoid alcohol or smoking.
Carry essential items, keep your daypack light, and ensure it includes layers, rain protection, water, and snacks for long-distance trekking.
Properly dispose of your trash, use refillable water bottles, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife while hiking.
Use biodegradable soap, use communal wash areas responsibly, use hand sanitizer frequently, and pack toilet paper and tissues for use when needed.
Limited charging facilities and extra costs require additional batteries, power banks, and offline maps/apps. Mobile signals are available in some areas, but not constantly.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek requires preparation, flexibility, and prioritization of health and safety, promoting enjoyment and responsibility throughout the journey.
Be aware of the cultural sensitivities when taking photos, dress modestly, learn Nepali greetings, and remove your shoes before entering temples or homes.
Why Annapurna Base Camp with Us?
Hi Nepal Travel and Treks Pvt. Ltd. is a reputed travel and trekking agency in Nepal, known for its commitment to safety, personalized service, and expertly guided Himalayan adventures that showcase the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic local experiences. We offer highly professional guides with years of experience to ensure you get the best trekking adventure that lasts in your memories forever.
ABC Trek Cost Breakdown
Several variables, including group size, travel preference (guided or independent), season, and lodging and food preferences, affect the overall cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Here is a summary of the main elements that contribute to the total cost:
Guide and Porter Services: You need to hire a certified trekking guide to improve your experience with culture, safety, and navigation. Porters make your journey much more pleasurable by helping to carry your load. The size of the group and their level of experience determine rates.
Accommodation: You will stay in local tea houses or lodges during the trek, which provide simple rooms with either private or shared amenities. Season and altitude both slightly raise costs.
Food and Drinks: Meals are served at tea houses along the ABC trek route; these usually consist of Nepali (Dal, Bhat, Local Vegetables, pickles, etc), Tibetan(Thukpa, dumplings, etc.), and simple Western cuisines (Pasta, pancake, fried rice, sandwich, etc.). The food availability depends on location and the type of tea house or restaurant you choose.
Meals are typically less expensive at lower elevations, but because of transportation expenses, prices increase as elevation increases. Other costs include snacks, drinks, and bottled water.
Transportation: Transportation costs may include a bus or private car from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Ghandruk, return transport from Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara, and Pokhara back to Kathmandu.
Permits: To trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area, you'll need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card. These can be arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Gear & Equipment: If you don’t already own trekking gear, you may need to buy or rent items like: down jacket, trekking poles, a backpack, boots, and layered clothing. Pokhara and Kathmandu have many rental shops catering to trekkers.
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a unique journey that combines breathtaking mountain scenery, rich cultural experiences, and personal triumph. It offers unique rewards such as navigating through rhododendron forests, soaking in hot springs, and gazing at the stars from the Annapurna Sanctuary. With proper preparation, mindful pacing, and curiosity, this trek is a life-changing experience for both seasoned hikers and first-time trekkers. The warmth of Gurung hospitality and snow-crowned peaks like Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre invite a deep connection with nature and culture.
FAQs
How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The ABC trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It does not require technical climbing skills but involves long walking days, some steep ascents and descents, and high altitudes. With basic fitness and proper acclimatization, it is achievable for most trekkers.
Can the guide speak English?
Yes, the majority of certified trekking guides in Nepal are fluent in English, have received training in effective communication, describing the trek's natural and cultural highlights, and helping with safety and logistics.
Can I extend the days from the regular package?
Yes, you can extend your tour package according to your desire. But you need to inform in advance.
Is it necessary to hire a guide?
Yes, hiring a guide is mandatory. As it ensures your safety and you will have your best experience with them.
Can I shower during the trek?
Hot showers are available at most tea houses along the ABC trek route, particularly at lower elevations like Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and Jhinu Danda, but may be limited or unavailable higher up the trail.
Can I charge my phone in the Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, you can charge your phone in Annapurna Base Camp; however, most of the tea houses use solar energy, so during cloudy days, the chances might be limited. It’s better to carry power banks to avoid charging problems.
How many hours will I trek per day?
On average, you’ll trek 5 to 7 hours per day, depending on the section and your pace. Some days involve more ascent and are more physically demanding.
Can I trek solo to the Annapurna Base Camp?
It’s not recommended to travel alone in any trekking region of Nepal, as the government has prohibited solo treks to ensure safety. If you’re travelling alone, then you must hire a guide.
Can I wear casual shoes on the ABC trek?
No, you must wear proper trekking boots, which are comfortable and waterproof. Boots also support your ankle on rough and slippery surfaces.
What can I do to get relief from my trekking stress?
You must take proper rest for proper recovery. You can also visit a spa for relaxing massages and a hot bath for quick recovery.