Introduction
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek in Nepal is one of the most popular and rewarding Himalayan adventures in the world. Nestled at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 ft), the base camp offers breathtaking 360-degree views of snow-capped giants, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. For trekkers seeking a perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural richness, and moderate trekking difficulty, Annapurna Base Camp is an unforgettable journey.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to reach the starting point, the best time to visit, highlights of the trek, and the full trekking itinerary.
How to Reach Annapurna Base Camp
Step 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
Most international travelers fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. The city is well-connected with flights from Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Spend a day here for acclimatization and last-minute gear shopping in Thamel.
Step 2: Travel to Pokhara
From Kathmandu, you’ll head to Pokhara, Nepal’s lakeside paradise and the gateway to the Annapurna region.
- By air: A 25-minute domestic flight.
- By road: 6–8 hours by tourist bus or private car.
Pokhara itself is worth exploring — enjoy Phewa Lake, Peace Pagoda, and vibrant lakeside cafes before you start your trek.
Step 3: Drive to the Trek Starting Point
The classic starting points for ABC are Nayapul, Jhinu Danda, or Ghandruk, depending on your route. A short drive (1–2 hours) from Pokhara takes you there.
Best Time to Visit Annapurna Base Camp
The Annapurna region has two prime trekking seasons:
- Spring (March to May):
- Clear skies, rhododendron forests in bloom, and pleasant weather.
- Popular season with many trekkers.
- Autumn (September to November):
- The best season with crisp mountain views, moderate temperatures, and stable weather.
- Ideal for photographers and first-time trekkers.
Other options:
- Winter (December–February): Fewer crowds but very cold and higher risk of snow blocking trails.
- Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended due to heavy rains, leeches, and landslides.
Full Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
The trek usually takes 7–12 days, depending on your route and pace. Below is a classic 10-day itinerary:
Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)
A short drive to Nayapul followed by a scenic hike through villages, terraced fields, and forests. Ghandruk is a beautiful Gurung village with mountain views.
- Altitude gain: 822m → 1,940m
- Trek distance: ~9 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Track info: Drive 1.5 hrs from Pokhara to Nayapul. Trek uphill through stone steps, terraced fields, and forests. Reach Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village with Annapurna South and Machapuchare views.
- Stay options:
- Hotel Gurung Cottage
- Ghandruk Guesthouse
- Annapurna Guesthouse
- Facilities: Private/double rooms, shared bathrooms, good Nepali meals, some with Wi-Fi.
- Note: Ghandruk is one of the bigger villages, so accommodation here is nicer.
Day 2: Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Descend to Kimrong Khola, then climb uphill to Chhomrong, the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. Stunning views of Machapuchare.
- Altitude gain: +230m
- Trek distance: ~8 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Track info: Descend to Kimrong Khola, cross a suspension bridge, then climb steeply through forests. Arrive at Chhomrong, the last big settlement before entering the sanctuary.
- Stay options:
- Excellent View Guesthouse
- Himalaya Lodge Chhomrong
- Chhomrong Cottage
- Facilities: Rooms with blankets, dining halls, Wi-Fi available for a fee.
- Highlight: Best views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South.
Day 3: Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310m)
Walk through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests. The trail descends steeply, then climbs again.
- Altitude gain: +140m
- Trek distance: ~9 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Track info: Steep descent down stone steps to Chhomrong Khola. Cross the bridge, then ascend through bamboo and rhododendron forests. Reach Bamboo village, named after its dense forests.
- Stay options:
- Bamboo Guesthouse
- Green Hill Lodge
- Facilities: Basic rooms, hot shower sometimes available, hearty Nepali food.
- Note: This is a forested area, accommodation is simpler.
Day 4: Bamboo to Deurali (3,230m)
Steady climb through dense forests and waterfalls. Views of rocky cliffs and glacial rivers.
- Altitude gain: +920m
- Trek distance: ~10 km
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Track info: Steady climb through damp forests with waterfalls. Pass through Dovan and Himalaya Hotel before reaching Deurali, with magnificent valley views.
- Stay options:
- Hotel Deurali
- Shangri-La Guesthouse
- Facilities: Small tea houses, warm dining halls, basic beds. Nights are colder here.
Day 5: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m)
One of the most exciting days. Reach Machapuchare Base Camp first, then continue to ABC. At the top, you’re surrounded by majestic peaks — Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Fishtail. Overnight stay at the base camp.
- Altitude gain: +900m
- Trek distance: ~7 km
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Track info: The trail follows the river, then opens into alpine meadows. Reach MBC, with jaw-dropping views of Machapuchare (Fishtail). Continue to ABC, the ultimate destination. Surrounded by a 360° amphitheater of peaks — Annapurna I (8,091m), Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and more.
- Stay options:
- Annapurna Sanctuary Lodge
- Annapurna Guest House
- Snowland Lodge
- Facilities: Dormitory-style or small rooms, limited electricity, unforgettable sunrise view in the morning.
- Note: Very high demand — rooms fill quickly in peak season, so guides often pre-book.
Day 6: ABC to Bamboo (2,310m)
Wake up early for a mesmerizing sunrise over Annapurna. Retrace your steps back to Bamboo.
- Altitude loss: –1,820m
- Trek distance: ~13 km
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Track info: Wake up early for a golden sunrise over Annapurna. Retrace steps back down through MBC, Deurali, and Himalaya, descending to Bamboo for the night.
- Stay at one of the same lodges as Day 3.
Day 7: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,760m)
Descend to Jhinu Danda, famous for its natural hot springs — a perfect way to relax sore muscles.
- Altitude loss: –550m
- Trek distance: ~8 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Track info: Gentle descent to Chhomrong, then a steep downhill to Jhinu Danda. Relax in the famous natural hot springs by the river.
- Stay options:
- Evergreen Guesthouse
- Hot Spring Guesthouse
- Facilities: Comfortable tea houses, and best part — natural hot springs just a 15-min walk down from the village.
Day 8: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
Final trek down to Nayapul, followed by a drive back to Pokhara. Celebrate with a lakeside dinner.
- Altitude loss: –940m
- Trek distance: ~6 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours trek + 2 hr drive
- Track info: Trek downhill to Nayapul through forests and villages. Drive back to Pokhara. Overnight stay at lakeside hotels.
- After trekking down to Nayapul, take a car/bus back to Pokhara.
- Stay options in Pokhara:
- Hotel Lakefront Pokhara (mid-range)
- Temple Tree Resort & Spa (luxury)
- Hotel Middle Path & Spa (budget-friendly with great reviews)
Trek Highlights
- Panoramic Mountain Views: Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and more.
- Cultural Experience: Gurung and Magar villages with unique traditions.
- Diverse Landscapes: From subtropical forests to alpine meadows and glaciers.
- Hot Springs at Jhinu Danda: Natural spa-like experience in the mountains.
- Flora & Fauna: Rhododendron blooms in spring, bamboo forests, and occasional wildlife sightings.
Difficulty Level and Preparation
The ABC trek is considered moderate. You don’t need advanced mountaineering skills, but good physical fitness is essential.
- Trekking hours: 5–7 hours per day.
- Altitude: Maximum 4,130m at ABC. Mild altitude sickness can occur — acclimatize and hydrate.
- Training: Practice hikes, cardio, and leg strengthening before the trip.
Permits Required
You’ll need two permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 for foreigners.
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card – NPR 2,000.
These are available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Essential Packing List
- Trekking boots and warm socks
- Down jacket and fleece layers
- Thermal wear and gloves
- Rain jacket and quick-dry clothes
- Sleeping bag (can be rented in Kathmandu/Pokhara)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
- Trekking poles
- Water purification tablets
- First-aid kit (including Diamox for altitude)
Accommodation and Food
- Tea Houses: Basic guesthouses along the route with simple rooms and common dining halls.
- Meals: Expect dal bhat (rice, lentils, and curry), noodles, soup, momo, pasta, and tea.
- Wi-Fi & Charging: Available in some places for a small fee.
Travel Tips for Annapurna Base Camp
- Start Slow: Take acclimatization seriously.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily.
- Hire a Guide/Porter: Optional but helpful for navigation, safety, and cultural experience.
- Cash is King: Carry enough Nepalese rupees, as ATMs are not available on the trail.
- Respect Local Culture: Greet locals with “Namaste,” and ask before taking photos.
Conclusion
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is more than just a hike — it’s a journey through Nepal’s cultural heartland, diverse landscapes, and into the lap of the world’s tenth-highest mountain. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, ABC offers a balanced challenge with rewarding views and unforgettable memories.