Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Destination

Nepal, Annapurna Region

Max. Altitude

4,130m/13,550ft

Difficulty

MediumYou need to have good physical condition and be in top form. You'll also require the right clothes for weather conditions and food items such as snacks or lunch breaks from your hiking adventure; water is essential too! This type of activity takes time, so ensure you're physically able to get enough rest before starting any trips.

Best Season

Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sept, Oct, Nov & Dec

Transportation

Bus, jeep

Start / End

Kathmandu / Kathmandu

Accommodation

Tea house

Meals

B.L.DBreakfast Lunch Dinner

Trek Distance

67.7km/42mile

Route

KTM-PKR-ABC-KTM

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of the most popular trekking adventures loved by trekking enthusiasts and adventurers worldwide. Starting from Pokhara, the trek takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by some of the world’s tallest peaks. Over 9 days, you’ll walk through terraced fields, quiet green forests, and peaceful mountain villages. The final destination, Annapurna Base Camp, sits at 4,130 meters and offers stunning views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and other snow-covered peaks.

The highlight of the trek is not just about seeing mountains, but also about learning about the culture and the everyday life of the people in the Annapurna region. The trail passes through traditional villages like Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Ulleri, and Ghorepani, where you can meet the friendly Gurung and Magar people. You’ll stay in teahouses, try Nepali food, and see Buddhist prayer flags and temples along the trail.

Per Person From

$666

9 Days

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Per Person From$6669 Days

Major Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  • On day 1, you’ll visit Pokhara, the iconic tourist hub in Nepal, and experience boating in Fewa Lake.
  • You will get to witness majestic views of the Annapurna range, Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Himalchuli, Fishtail, and Nilgiri up close throughout the trail, most specifically Annapurna Base Camp.
  • After all the walking, you will get to soak in the natural hot springs on the ridge of Jhinu Danda.
  • You will visit the Traditional Ghandruk village, meet Gurung people, and immerse yourself in their culture and ethnicity.
  • The trek takes you through landscapes from barren wildlands, lush forests, rocky ridges, glacial moraines, and snowy mountains.
  • You will also visit several remote yet beautiful villages, including Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, and Sinuwa.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek at a Glance

Distance, walking time and high point for each day
DayItineraryDistance / TimeAltitude
01Kathmandu to Pokhararoad transfer220 km8 hrs1,400 mKathmandu
02Pokhara to Kimche to Ghandruk4.5 km2 hrs1,940 mGhandruk
03Ghandruk to Sinuwa13.51 km7 hrs2,360 mSinuwa
04Sinuwa to Deurali12 km7 hrs3,200 mDeurali
05Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchchhre Base Camp7.5 km5 hrs4,130 mAnnapurna Base Camp
06Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo14 km7 hrs4,130 mAnnapurna Base Camp
07Bamboo to Jhinu Danda and nearby natural hot springs9.7 km7 hrs2,310 mBamboo
08Jhinu Danda to Siwai to Pokhara6.5 km3 hrs1,780 mJhinu Danda
09Pokhara to Kathmanduroad transfer220 km1,400 mKathmandu
On foot, across 7 trekking days67.7 km38 hrs4,130 m

A typical day on the trail

  1. 5 – 6 amWake, pack, and eat a full breakfast before the trail warms up.
  2. 6 am – 1 pmThe long stretch — forest, suspension bridges and villages, six to seven hours of walking.
  3. 1 – 2 pmLunch at a teahouse, usually dal bhat or Thakali, and an hour to let the altitude settle.
  4. 2 – 5 pmA shorter afternoon leg into the night's village, then tea, dinner and an early bed.

Reviews from our Guests

From travellers who walked this exact itinerary.

★★★★★

I woke up before sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp and my water bottle had frozen a little inside the room. Outside it was completely silent and the peaks turned orange one after another. Prakash pointed out which mountain was which and told us how the sanctuary got its name. I am not a strong trekker and the climb from Deurali was slow for me, but he kept the pace comfortable and never made me feel like I was holding the group back.

PR
Priya RaghunathanApril 2026 · Guided by Prakash Dhungana
★★★★★

The strange thing about this trek is that Machhapuchhre is visible for so much of it, and it looks different from every angle. By the time we reached Machhapuchhre Base Camp it felt like meeting someone I already knew. The walk from Sinuwa through the bamboo forest was humid and slippery in places, so take poles. Tea houses got simpler the higher we went but the food was always hot.

TH
Tomas HerreraMarch 2026
★★★★★

We got lucky or unlucky depending on how you see it. Snow fell overnight at Deurali and the trail up was white the whole way. It was slower going and cold, but the sanctuary in fresh snow is something I will not forget. The team checked the conditions in the morning before we set off and were clear that we would turn around if it got worse. It did not, and we made it.

KW
Kenji WatanabeNovember 2025
★★★★★

Nothing prepares you for the moment the valley opens up. You walk for days between steep walls, and then suddenly the whole sanctuary is around you in a circle. I actually stopped and sat down for a bit. Binod gave us plenty of time up there and did not rush anyone, which I appreciated. The tea house at base camp was basic but warm enough, and the dal bhat came fast. Coming down to Bamboo the next day my knees complained, but I would do the whole thing again.

AL
Ava LindqvistNovember 2025 · Guided by Binod Poudel
★★★★★

Whoever tells you this trek is easy has not done the climb up to Sinuwa. It is stone steps for a very long time. That said, once you are past it the trail settles down and the views open up properly. Nabaraj carried extra water for the group on that section without being asked. Reaching base camp on day five felt like a real achievement and the group we ended up with made the evenings fun.

HO
Hannah OstbergOctober 2025 · Guided by Nabaraj Pokhrel
★★★★★

After six days of walking, sitting in the hot springs below Jhinu Danda was the best thing that happened to me all year. You climb down a lot of steps to get there and then climb back up, which sounds silly, but it is completely worth it. The rest of the trek was beautiful too. Ghandruk was lovely in the late afternoon light and the forest above Sinuwa smelled amazing after rain.

DW
Daniel WhitfieldOctober 2025
★★★★★

My journey to the Annapurna Base Camp was truly a transformative experience. This trip made me realise the importance of perseverance and the sense of satisfaction that comes from achieving a challenging goal. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire Himalayan 360 team for making this trip possible. I am deeply grateful for your exceptional services. If you're considering an adventure in the Himalayas, I wholeheartedly recommend Himalayan 360.

Verified purchase

AR
Anugrah RaiAugust 2024

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Day By Day Itinerary

Download this itinerary

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Time:7-14
Travel Duration:8 Hours
Travel Distance:220 km/137miles
Highest Altitude:(1,400m/ 4,593ft) Kathmandu

The first day of the ABC trek starts with breakfast in the Kathmandu hotel. After breakfast, we will take a bus to Pokhara. Along the way, you will see the beautiful Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers and the green, rocky mountains. These rivers connect, and there are also small springs. After about 8 hrs of riding, we will reach Pokhara.

Pokhara is a lovely valley famous for its lakes, including Phewa and Begnas. Tall peaks including Manaslu (8,156m), Annapurna (8,091m), Lamjung Himal (6,983m, Machapuchare (6,993m), and Dhaulagiri (8,169m) surround it. Currently, Pokhara is a tourist haven with numerous modern conveniences. Once in Pokhara, you can either spend your free time resting or exploring the area. Overnight in Pokhara.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Kimche Trek to Ghandruk

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Trek Distance:4.5km/3miles
Ascent:318m/1,043ft
Descend:18m/60ft
Trek Duration:2 Hours
Highest Altitude:(1940m / 6,364ft), Ghandruk

The second trek day begins early in the morning. After a delicious breakfast, we will leave Pokhara for a scenic 2-hour drive to Kimche. Along the way, enjoy views of green hills and mountains. Once we reach Nayapul (1100m), we will begin our trek to Ghandruk, starting from Kimche. The trail passes through the Modi River, traditional villages (Birethanti, Syauli Bazar, Chimring, Chane), terraced fields, and hills with the stunning Annapurna range as a backdrop.

It takes 4 to 5 hours to reach Ghandruk from Nayapul. Ghandruk village (1940 meters) in Kaski District, Nepal, offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Overnight stay at the teahouse or lodge at Ghandruk.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House or Lodge

Day 03: Trek from Ghandruk to Sinuwa

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Trek Distance:13.51km / 8.3miles
Ascent:1544m/5,066ft
Descend:1124m/3,688ft
Trek Duration:7 Hours
Highest Altitude:(2,360m/7,742ft), Sinuwa

The third day of the trek starts with breakfast at Ghandru. Today we will leave for Sinuwa, our next destination. It’s a day of both ups and downs, starting with a gradual climb to Kimrung Danda, followed by a descent to Kimrung Khola (River). From there, we climb steadily again to reach the lively Chhomrong village. Chhomrong is one of the most developed villages on the ABC trail. Also, the view of the Annapurna range from Chhomrong is truly breathtaking.

After a short rest, we will continue on a steep downhill trail to cross the river, then start a final uphill stretch toward Sinuwa. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung settlements. The trail offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural charm, with opportunities to observe local farming practices and explore the region’s unique flora and fauna. If the weather is clear, views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) will greet you in Sinuwa. We end the day with dinner and an overnight stay at a teahouse in Sinuwa.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House or Lodge

Day 04: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Trek Distance:12km /7.4miles
Ascent:1070m/3,510ft
Descend:230m/755ft
Trek Duration:7 Hours
Highest Altitude:3,200m/ 10,499ft Deurali

The trek starts from Sinuwa after an early breakfast. Today’s trek is also going to be longer. The journey begins with a climb to Upper Sinuwa. After that, we will take a steep descent along a rocky path that leads to a peaceful place, Bamboo. We will have a short break there. After resting, we will continue on the west side of the river and follow a scenic trail that passes by small waterfalls and rich green forests.

The trail slowly climbs again, passing Hinko Cave, a large overhanging rock that once served as a natural shelter for early trekkers. After a steady hike, we will finally arrive at Deurali, where we will spend the night. Dramatic cliffs surround the area and offer a peaceful setting with stunning mountain views, especially as the sun sets behind the peaks.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House or Lodge

Day 05: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchchhre Base Camp

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Trek Distance:7.5km /4.6miles
Ascent:930m/3,051ft
Trek Duration:5 Hours
Highest Altitude:4,130m/13,550ft Annapurna Base Camp

Today’s trek takes us deeper into the heart of the Himalayas as we make our way to the Annapurna Base Camp. Our first stop is Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m), which sits right below the stunning peak of Machhapuchhre, also known as “Fishtail” mountain because of its unique shape. From here, we are surrounded by towering peaks on all sides. This natural bowl of snow-capped giants is what’s called the Annapurna Sanctuary. After a short rest and some warm tea, we continue the final two-hour trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).

As we arrive at base camp, get ready for a moment you’ll never forget. Massive peaks like Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre rise all around you. The snowy mountains shine brightly in the sun. Tonight, we stay at a teahouse here, right in the heart of the Himalayas.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House or Lodge

Day 06: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Trek Distance:14km /8.6miles
Ascent:30m/98ft
Descend:1850m/6,070ft
Trek Duration:7 Hours
Highest Altitude:4,130m/13,550ft Annapurna Base Camp

Now that we have reached the serene Annapurna Base and have explored the area, we must descend and retrace our steps. We will follow a path that leads us out of the Annapurna Sanctuary and the Modi River Valley. Our goal for today is to reach a quiet stop called Bamboo, which is 2,350 meters (7,700 feet) above sea level. The Bamboo is a small village with only a few teahouses and lodges. Overnight stay at either the teahouse or the lodge, depending on which is available.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House or Lodge

Day 07: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda and nearby natural hot springs

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Trek Distance:9.7km/6miles
Ascent:510m/1,673ft
Descend:1040m/3,412ft
Trek Duration:7 Hours
Highest Altitude:2,310m/7,579ft Bamboo

After a long walk from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo the day before, today’s trek is more relaxed. We start the trek by heading downhill toward Kimrong Khola, then climb gently through peaceful forests filled with rhododendron, bamboo, and oak trees. The sounds of birds and rustling leaves make this part of the trail feel calm and refreshing.

By the afternoon, we reach Jhinu Danda, a popular village known for its natural hot springs. These warm pools are just a short walk downhill from the village. They are the perfect place to soak and let your tired legs recover. Many trekkers say this is one of the best parts of the whole trip. We’ll stay overnight at a teahouse in Jhinu Danda.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation:Tea House or Lodge

Day 08: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwai drive to Pokhara

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Trek Distance:6.5km/4miles
Ascent:35m/115ft
Descend:285m/935ft
Trek Duration:3Hour
Highest Altitude:1,780m/6,393ft Jhinu Danda

Today is the final day of trekking. We wake up early and eat breakfast in Jhinu Danda, after which we continue our journey back to Pokhara. We leave Jhinu Danda and walk along a dirt road beside Modi Khola. This part of the trek is the most relaxing.

After about three hours of walking, we reach Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi. We leave the trails and drive through the beautiful countryside to Pokhara. We will spend the night in Pokhara and prepare to go to Kathmandu tomorrow.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Day 09: From Pokhara drive back to Kathmandu

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Travel Duration:220km/137mile
Travel Distance:220km
Highest Altitude:1,400m/4,593ft Kathmandu

Today, we leave for Kathmandu early in the morning after breakfast. After reaching Kathmandu, check into your hotel and prepare for an evening celebratory dinner. Here concludes your trek to Annapurna Base Camp. We hope you had an amazing trekking experience and will join us for another trek in Nepal.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary FactDetails
Meals:Breakfast, and Dinner
Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Included/ Excluded

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

Transfer

  • Kathmandu -Pokhara, Pokhara- Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • Pokhara to Kimche Private Vehicle
  • Siwai to Pokhara by sharing a local jeep
  • Airport transfer
  • International flight
  • Domestic flight

Accommodation & Food

  • 2 Night in Pokhara 3 Star hotel (sharing basis)
  • 1 Night Kathmandu 3 start hotel (sharing basis)
  • 6 night in mountain tea house lodge (sharing basis)
  • Food: 9 Breakfast, 7 Lunch, 7 Dinner
  • Extra night in kathmandu
  • Extra night in Pokhara
  • Extra night during Trekking
  • Soft and hard drinks during the trip

Support

  • One guide During the trek
  • Porter to carry bags (2:1 Porter)

Permit & Insurance

  • ACAP permit fees.
  • TIMS card fees
  • Travel insurance that covers emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation (compulsory)

Others

  • Gov. and local tax and agency service charges
  • Free luggage storage services in Kathmandu
  • Appreciation Certificate after the successful trek
  • Free consulting services before & after trek book
  • Farewell dinner at the end of the trek
  • Trek leader for more than 12 trekker groups
  • Staff insurance, salary, equipment, food & clothing
  • MEDICAL KIT: Comprehensive Medical kit
  • Personal clothing and gear and Personal expenses: shopping, snacks, boild water, drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, calls, battery charging, extra porters, etc.
  • Tips for staff (it is expected)
  • All other costs and expenses not listed in “including”
  • Additional cost: Additional costs incurred due to causes beyond our control, for example weather conditions, landslides, itinerary modifications, illness, government policies change, strikes, etc.

Route & Elevation

Route map of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, from Pokhara through Ghandruk and Chhomrong into the Annapurna Sanctuary
Kathmandu → Pokhara → Ghandruk → Chhomrong → Annapurna Base Camp, returning by Jhinu Danda.
01k2k3k4kD1D2D3D4D5D6D7D8D9Annapurna Base Camp 4,130 m
Highest point reached on each day, plotted against distance walked. Metres on the left, day number along the bottom.

Departure Dates

No fixed departures are on sale for this trip right now. and we will run it privately. The season just gone is below.

Every departure below runs 9 days and costs $666 per person. None of them are on sale — the dates are here for the rhythm we run the trip on.

6 departures.

February 20261 departure

  • Mon23FebTue3Mar

    Departed

    Departed

March 20265 departures

  • Mon2MarTue10Mar

    Departed

    Departed
  • Mon9MarTue17Mar

    Departed

    Departed
  • Mon16MarTue24Mar

    Departed

    Departed
  • Mon23MarTue31Mar

    Departed

    Departed
  • Mon30MarTue7Apr

    Departed

    Departed

FAQs for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Information

Difficulty

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate-level trek. For beginners, it can be among the best options for starting their trekking journey. However, the trekkers still need to be wary of certain difficulty factors. These include;

Long Duration

The ABC Trek usually lasts between 5 and 11 days. You will need to walk 6-7 hours daily. The exact length depends on your chosen route and how fast you want to go. When deciding how long to trek, consider your health and fitness. The duration affects how your body adjusts to high altitude and how it handles physical exertion. A longer trek gives you more rest days and allows for slower climbs.

High Altitude

One of the significant difficulties that ABC trekkers will likely face is the problem at higher elevations upon reaching Annapurna Base Camp. There are several difficulty factors at high altitudes, like dynamic weather, snowy trails, and the potential for altitude sickness. Even during the best time for trekking, this problem persists, making high altitude even more problematic during the off-season.

Rugged Terrain

During the trek, you will need to navigate stone steps, rocky paths, and uneven surfaces. The changing landscape requires flexibility and physical activity, especially when climbing steep areas. Some parts of the trail are narrow and winding, with occasional views of cliff edges. This can be tough for those afraid of heights or worrying about falling. You must have good balance and physical endurance to navigate the trek safely.

Best Season & Packing List

The best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp are Spring (March, April, May, and June) and Autumn (late September, October, and November). Winter (December to February) and Monsoon (June to August) are off-season.

Spring

The Spring season starts in March and ends in May. During this season, the weather and temperature are excellent and suitable for trekking. Furthermore, in the Spring season, the ABC trails are filled with colorful blooming flowers and lush jungles, which makes the trekking experience even more cheerful.

Autumn

The Autumn season begins in September and ends in November. Nepal has autumn in September, October, and November, also called pre-winter. This season offers some of the best weather after the monsoon and before winter. Trekkers can expect moderate temperatures, warm days, and cool mornings and evenings. The skies are usually clear, providing beautiful views of the Annapurna range during the day. Daytime temperatures average between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures drop to around negative 3 to 4 degrees Celsius. Autumn is also the harvest season, so travelers can see farmers working in their fields. One downside to this time is that the trails can be crowded with other trekkers.

Monsoon and Winter season

The two off-seasons of trekking ABC are winter and monsoon season, where trekking itinerary booking is lower than other seasons. From June to August, Nepal experiences monsoon and summer seasons with daytime temperatures of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, dropping to -1 to -2 degrees at night. While the monsoon rain offers relief from the heat, it also brings challenges like leeches, landslides, and potential flight delays. Trekking is still possible, but expect muddy trails and obstructed mountain views. Winter trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is challenging due to extreme weather, with 0 to 5 degrees Celsius daytime temperatures and nighttime drops from -10 to -15 degrees. This season offers seclusion but comes with risks, such as snow-covered trails and avalanches. We do not recommend winter travel to ABC.

0 of 61 packed

Clothing

Trekking Gears

First Aid and Medicines

Weighing It Against the Alternatives

If you are still deciding, this is how Annapurna Base Camp Trek sits against the trips people most often weigh it against — on days, distance, difficulty and cost.

This trip compared with the alternatives
TripDays / DistanceDifficultyFrom
Annapurna Base Camp Trekthis trip9 days67.7 kmMedium$666
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek9 daysMedium$688
Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour9 days834.6 kmEasy$440
Mardi Himal Yoga Trek9 days51.8 kmMedium$770
Sikles Eco Home Stay Trek9 daysEasy$740
Langtang Valley Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp TrekA full head-to-head on scenery, crowds, cost and culture.

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