Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Tour Details
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is among the most enjoyable trekking trails in Nepal that lead you through the very soul of the Annapurna Conservation Area right up to the base of the tenth highest peak in the world. It takes you through some beautiful terraces, dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, waterfalls, and mountain villages, giving you some incredible views of the massive mountains such as the Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, and Pungda Danda. It also gives you the chance to rejuvenate yourself in the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda.
Apart from breathtaking natural scenery, the trek also offers great cultural exposure as one traverses friendly Gurung and Magar communities whose culture and traditions could be learnt by those undertaking the adventure. This trek thus combines amazing views of the Himalayas, interesting ecosystems and good hospitable communities to offer the best experience for all types of trekkers including the new ones.
The perfect time to undertake the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is either in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These are periods when weather is favorable, clear views of mountains prevail and conditions for trekking are optimal. In spring, one gets to witness the flowering rhododendrons in abundance, while in autumn, the weather is clear.
Itinerary
Our journey starts with the scenic private drive from Pokhara to Hile or Tikhedhunga, which takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Following a short break, we start the trek by walking along the Bhurungdi Khola, through the traditional villages, terraced farms, and green hills. During this section of the hike, you can feel the calmness of the rural Nepal countryside as we cross several suspension bridges and walk through smaller villages where the locals keep their old mountain traditions alive.
The climb becomes tougher as we approach the legendary stone stairway that leads to Ulleri. Our toughest climb of the day involves climbing 2,500 stone stairs, but the stunning views of the valleys and forests are worth it. When we finally get to the picturesque Gurung village of Ulleri, you can have some rest before moving forward. On the schedule of the trekkers’ group, you may spend the night in Ulleri or keep going for a while and camp in the village of Banthanti.
Includes: Private Transport, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Ulleri/Banthanti.
The trekking route today will take us through one of the most beautiful parts of the Annapurna circuit as we move up from either Banthanti or Ulleri to Ghorepani. This route will take us past dense forests of rhododendron, oaks and pine trees, with small creeks and wooden bridges dotting the trail. In spring, the forests come alive with colors ranging from red, pink and white as the rhododendrons blossom.
Continuing upwards on the trekking route, we finally reach the mountainous village of Ghorepani, located amidst the forest at an altitude of 2,874 meters. We check in to our lodges and get comfortable to take in the awesome views of the Himalayas. On a clear day, one can feast their eyes on the majestic Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and other snow-capped mountains in preparation for the wonderful hike to Poon Hill tomorrow.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Ghorepani.
Early morning, we start on an exciting and short hike to the viewpoint known as Poon Hill (3,210 m). As the sun rays fall on the Himalayas, you will get a panoramic view of the snow-clad mountains including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli and other ranges of the Annapurna range. You will have some time to admire the fantastic mountainous sunrise and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains before coming back down to Ghorepani and having breakfast at our lodge.
After breakfast, we go on a trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani via the trail passing through the beautiful rhododendron, oak, and pine forests. The trail is marked by small creeks, waterfalls, and parts of the conservation area of Annapurna. After having a little break at Banthanti, we reach Tadapani (2,590 m) in the afternoon and spend the night at our mountain lodge.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Tadapani.
Your today’s trek starts off with a descent through dense forests and age-old mountain trails followed by walking through terrace fields and a few villages. On the way, you will have the opportunity to witness the lifestyle of Gurung villagers as well as the breathtaking scenery of hills and valleys around you. You will then make your way down to the Kimrung Khola by crossing it with the help of a suspension bridge to start ascending to the village of Chhomrong.
Upon reaching Chhomrong Village which is the entry point to Annapurna Base Camp, you will get the chance to see the magnificent views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South towering over the village.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Chhomrong.
The day starts with a descent from Chhomrong through a number of stone stairs to the Chhomrong Khola. We then have to cross this river using a suspension bridge and begin our ascent through thick forested areas all the way to Sinuwa Village, where we get some time to relax while being surrounded by calm surroundings.
After departing from Sinuwa, we get to see some stunning scenery within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail passes through forests that have bamboo, oaks and rhododendrons. Finally, after traversing through a combination of rocky and ascendant areas, we reach the tranquil village of Bamboo (2,300 m). This village is characterized by towering bamboo plants and vegetation. It is an ideal place to spend the night in a comfortable mountain lodge.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Bamboo.
This trek begins today in further explorations of the Annapurna Sanctuary, as we move away from Bamboo, following the path through thick bamboo and rhododendron forests. We then pass the small village of Dovan and walk along the banks of the Modi Khola till we reach the peaceful area of Himalaya, where we make a halt to have a rest amid the tranquil environment.
As we ascend in altitude, the environment gradually becomes less forested and we begin to witness stunning mountain scenery. The trek passes beyond Himalaya on an ascending route that takes us through rocky terrain, but occasionally drops down near the river before once again rising up to reach Deurali. Throughout our route we will witness amazing vistas of steep cliffs and majestic waterfalls in the Annapurna Conservation Area. By the end of the day we reach Deurali (3,230 m), a small mountain village amidst the breathtaking Himalayan environment.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Deurali.
The today’s hike is considered the best part of the trip, as we continue to get closer to the Annapurna Sanctuary. Walking away from the village of Deurali, we hike the Modi Khola Valley, going deeper into the alpine zone, where the greenery slowly turns into rocky scenery. While hiking, we will be able to enjoy the wonderful views of the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain until we get to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m), having a rest there.
From Machhapuchhre Base Camp, we hike up the glacial valley to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Being surrounded by the mountains on all four sides, the camp gives the amazing panoramic views of the peaks of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre. The unique amphitheater, called Annapurna Sanctuary, provides one of the most picturesque mountain scenery in Nepal. After we arrive at the base camp, you will have the opportunity to rest, enjoy the wonderful views, and prepare for a beautiful sunrise in the morning.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Annapurna Base Camp.
Rise up early to see a stunning sunrise on the Annapurna Sanctuary, with the early morning sunlight shining on Annapurna I (8,091 m) and other Himalayas. Unique mountain amphitheater covered by snow provides the most amazing view in Nepal, which is why this day will be an unforgettable experience of the whole trip. Having admired the amazing views and eaten the breakfast at the base camp of Annapurna, we start to descend.
We will go down by the same way, passing the Machhapuchhre Base Camp, walking down in the Modi Khola valley. We will pass through the alpine landscapes, gradually transforming into thick forest of bamboo and rhododendrons, arriving to Bamboo village.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Bamboo.
As we depart from Bamboo, we head back up the forest trails of the Annapurna Conservation Area, past Sinuwa, and finally back to Chhomrong. After that, the route takes us on an abrupt descent via rice fields and rural settlements to reach the charming village of Jhinu Danda, where one gets to have a view of the beautiful hills.
Once at our lodge, you can check in, keep your baggage there, and walk down to the Modi Khola river to use its hot springs, which are well known for their therapeutic qualities. While surrounded by the calming sound of the river and forest, one is able to unwind and ease away any muscle strain due to trekking through the mountains of Nepal.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, an English-speaking guide, Porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge in Jhinu Danda.
This is our last day on the trail when we travel down through amazing forests, agricultural terraces, and traditional villages with amazing sceneries from the Lower Annapurna region. From Kyumi, the path goes to Syauli Bazaar, where you will have one last chance to explore the charm of the local countryside. In addition, look out for the flora of the area, colorful butterflies, and serene sceneries.
From Syauli Bazaar, we walk on to Nayapul, where our adventure on the trail ends. Here, a private vehicle will take you back to Pokhara. Once there, check into your hotel, get cleaned up in a hot shower, and celebrate the end of your wonderful Annapurna Base Camp Trek!
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Private Vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and Porter.
Price Include/Exclude
Price Includes
All private ground transportation is provided to ensure smooth and hassle-free travel throughout your journey.
Room Arrangement:
Rooms are typically shared by two people (twin sharing). If you prefer a private room, please let us know during the booking process. Private rooms are subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.
Mountain Lodges / Tea Houses:
9 nights of comfortable accommodation in the best available mountain lodges and tea houses along the trekking route.
- Expert Local Guide: Friendly, experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide trained in first aid.
- Assistant Guide: An additional assistant guide will accompany the group if there are more than seven participants.
- Guide Support: Includes guides’ wages, meals, accommodation, insurance, and all necessary trekking equipment.
Porter services (can carry 18 kilos of luggage and share between two clients; both clients are suggested to bring 9 kilos of luggage each).
- Trek Meals: Three freshly prepared meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek, with a selection of local and international dishes.
- Safe Drinking Water: Water purification tablets or drops are provided to ensure safe drinking water throughout the trek.
- Seasonal Fruits: Fresh seasonal fruits served each evening during the trek.
- Conservation Area Permit: Annapurna Conservation Area permit.
- TIMS Card: Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
- Government Fees: All applicable local government taxes, permit fees, and official charges.
- Trekking Gear (If Required): Complimentary use of a warm down jacket and sleeping bag for the duration of the trek. These items must be returned at the end of the trip.
- Trekking Map: A detailed trekking route map is provided as a complimentary souvenir.
Luggage Storage: Complimentary and secure storage for any non-essential luggage or trekking gear at our office or your hotel in Kathmandu during the trek.
- A first aid kit, including an Oximeter to measure pulse and oxygen levels daily in the mountains
- Help in arranging a rescue operation in the complicated health situation (funded by your travel insurance).
- Certificate of Appreciation at the end after the trek.
- A farewell dinner with cultural shows in Kathmandu.
Price Excludes
Visa fees are not included. You can easily obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Current fees are USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, and USD 125 for a 90-day visa.
All drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as hot drinks (tea, coffee, hot chocolate) and cold drinks, are not included throughout the trip.
Tipping (Tips for guides, drivers and support staff).
International airfare to and from Nepal is not included.
Hotel upgrades, donations at temples, schools, monasteries, and other sites, personal hiking gear and equipment, and any additional costs arising from illness, injury, emergency evacuation or rescue, natural disasters, flight delays or cancellations, itinerary changes, or other unforeseen circumstances are not included. Any items or services not specifically mentioned in the “Includes” section are also excluded.