Highlights
- Major monuments in Kathmandu and Pokhara are visited for sightseeing
- A multicultural community with friendly locals
- As you enter the lush Annapurna Sanctuary, lose yourself in the natural beauty of the place
- Best sunrise view and panoramic Himalayan vistas from Poonhill
- Take a break in the naturally occurring hot springs at Jhinu Danda after your hike, where the cool waters relieve tired muscles
- While trekking to ABC, take in the traditions and cultures of the Gurung, Magar, and Chhetri communities.
- Enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and experience the lushness of the surrounding wilderness
- Discover the distinctive rites and practices of communities where you may completely immerse yourself in the rich ethnic diversity, like Ghorepani, Chhomrong, Dovan, and Deurali
- The huge Himalayas in front of you, including the world's tenth-highest peak, Annapurna I (8,091m), and Annapurna Base Camp (4200m)
- In Nepal, one of the most well-liked trekking adventures
Overview
Annapurna Base Camp, also known as ABC or Annapurna Sanctuary, is the most popular trekking destination in the northwestern region of Nepal’s Annapurna area. Situated in the heart of the Annapurna Conservation Area, west of Pokhara, the base camp sits at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,547 feet). This short trek offers stunning views of Annapurna I, the first mountain over 8,000 meters to be climbed, along with its surrounding peaks.
Beyond the breathtaking Himalayan scenery, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is known for being relatively affordable, accessible, and shorter in duration. The rich legacy of the Annapurna range and its mountaineering history add significant value to the trek. Unique among trekking routes, the ABC trek is largely forested, featuring a diverse array of flora and fauna. The journey through traditional Gurung and Magar settlements further enhances the overall trekking experience.
Best Time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
While the Annapurna Base Camp trek can be undertaken throughout the year, certain months offer more favorable weather conditions, making the trek easier and the views more enjoyable. The trekking experience varies significantly with each season.
Spring (March–May):
Temperature: Annapurna Base Camp temperatures range from 10°C to 0°C, with warmer temperatures in the lower regions.
Weather: Cool temperatures and almost no rainfall make for ideal trekking conditions.
Highlights: Trails are in perfect condition, and by April, the region bursts into color with red, pink, and white rhododendron blossoms.
Autumn (September-November)
Temperature: Comfortable and cool, ideal for trekking.
Weather: Clear skies and a clean environment enhance the trekking experience.
Highlights: Fantastic trail conditions, along with the festive atmosphere of Nepal’s major festivals, Dashain and Tihar, which add a vibrant cultural dimension to the trek.
Summer (June-August):
Weather: Summer coincides with the monsoon season, making trails wet and slippery.
Highlights: The rain transforms the vegetation into a lush, green blanket. Raging rivers and giant waterfalls add excitement to the trek, despite the challenging conditions.
Winter (December-February):
Temperature: Low temperatures with potential snowfall, leading to snow-covered trails.
Weather: Clear winter skies offer spectacular views of mountains and valleys.
Highlights: Though less popular, winter treks offer the thrill of navigating snowy paths and the advantage of uncrowded trails.
Accommodations:
While the tourism infrastructure in the Annapurna trek regions is basic, there is no need to camp outside unless you choose to do so.
We select the best available accommodations in the trek regions. You will typically stay in twin-sharing rooms with attached bathrooms when available, and in standard twin-sharing rooms in other locations. The lodges along the trek provide electricity, internet, and running water. Hot showers are available at an extra cost.
In Kathmandu, you have the flexibility to choose hotels based on your preferences. The city offers a wide range of hotels and lodges to suit different tastes and budgets. Most trek packages do not include accommodations in Kathmandu.
Itinerary:
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu & transfer to hotel (1350m)
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 3 : Drive to Nayapul & trek to Ulleri (1,960m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 4 : Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 5 : Hike up to Poon Hill viewpoint (3210m) & trek to Tadapani (2,710m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 6 : Trek from Tadapani to Chomrong (2,170m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 7 : Trek from Chomrong to Bamboo (2,600m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 8 : Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3,200m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 9 : Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 10 : Trek from ABC to Sinuwa (2,400m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 11 : Trek from Sinuwa to Jhinu Danda (hot spring) (1760m) via Chomrong; Duration: hours.
Day 12 : Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul & drive to Pokhara (8,20m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Day 13 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; Duration (1,350m): 6-7 hours.
Day 14 : International departure from Kathmandu Airport.
Arrival at Kathmandu & transfer to hotel
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Nayapul and trek to Ulleri
Trek to Ghorepani
Hike up to Poon Hill viewpoint (3210m) & trek to Tadapani
Trek to Chommrong
Trek to Bamboo
Trek to Deurali
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Trek back to Sinuwa
Trek to Jhinu Danda (hot spring)
Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
Drive back to Kathmandu
Transfer to International Airport for your final departure.
What's included
What's not included
FAQs
1.What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a renowned trekking route in Nepal, renowned for its diverse landscapes, terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages. It culminates at the base camp of the majestic Annapurna mountain range, situated at an elevation of 4130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level.
2.When is the best time to do the trek?
The optimal periods to undertake the Annapurna Base Camp trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, you can expect clear skies, moderate temperatures, and breathtaking vistas.
3.What is the level of difficulty for the trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is generally classified as moderate in difficulty. It includes some steep ascents and descents, but does not necessitate technical climbing skills. It is advisable to have basic fitness and prior trekking experience for this trek.
4.What permits are required for the trek?
For the trek, you'll need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Typically, these permits are obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before beginning the trek.
5.What is the accommodation like during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek varies from modest teahouses to more comfortable lodges. These facilities typically offer simple rooms furnished with twin beds and shared bathrooms. Bringing along a sleeping bag is recommended for added warmth and comfort.
6.Do I need a guide and porter for the trek?
While hiring a guide and porter for your trek isn't obligatory, many trekkers opt to do so for added convenience and support. A guide offers valuable insights into the route and local culture, while a porter can lighten your load by carrying a heavy backpack.