Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp trek, nestled in the majestic Annapurna region of Nepal, offers a captivating journey through some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. Starting from the enchanting lakeside city of Pokhara, this iconic trek takes adventurers on a 7 to 12-day odyssey, traversing lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and charming traditional villages inhabited by diverse ethnic communities like Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis. Along the way, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of towering peaks including Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South, culminating in the awe-inspiring amphitheater of Annapurna Sanctuary at an altitude of 4,130 meters. The journey also features opportunities for cultural immersion, relaxation in natural hot springs, and optional side trips to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the Annapurna range from Poon Hill. With well-marked trails, moderate difficulty, and comfortable accommodation options in teahouses and lodges, the Annapurna Base Camp trek promises an unforgettable adventure, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the globe.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Spectacular Mountain Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of towering peaks such as Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South throughout the trek, culminating in the stunning amphitheater of Annapurna Sanctuary at the base camp.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Himalayan region by interacting with ethnic communities like the Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis, experiencing their traditions, and visiting charming villages along the way.
- Natural Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda or Chhomrong, offering a soothing respite for tired muscles amidst the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
- Varied Terrain and Flora: Trek through diverse landscapes ranging from lush rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and glacial moraines, encountering a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and Himalayan wildlife.
- Poon Hill Sunrise: Witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the Annapurna range from Poon Hill, painting the sky in vibrant hues and providing an unforgettable panoramic view of the surrounding peaks.
Short Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara
Day 3: Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga
Day 4: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
Day 5: Ghorepani to Tadapani via Poon Hill
Day 6: Tadapani to Chhomrong
Day 7: Chhomrong to Bamboo
Day 8: Bamboo to Deurali
Day 9: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
Day 10: ABC to Bamboo
Day 11: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda
Day 12: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul and same day drive to Pokhara
Day 13: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 14: Shopping and preparation for final departure
Day 15: Final departure to homeland
Detail Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city.
- Transfer to your hotel.
- Explore Kathmandu’s vibrant streets and cultural sites.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Take a scenic drive or a short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- Explore Pokhara, the picturesque lakeside city.
- Prepare for the trek and rest.
Day 3: Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga
- Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (approximately 1.5 hours).
- Begin trekking from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga (1,540m).
- Trekking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 4: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
- Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860m).
- Ascend steep stone steps through lush forests and charming villages.
- Trekking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 5: Ghorepani to Tadapani via Poon Hill
- Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for sunrise views.
- Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,630m) through rhododendron forests.
- Trekking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 6: Tadapani to Chhomrong
- Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m), descending through forests and terraced fields.
- Enjoy views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.
- Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Chhomrong to Bamboo
- Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,335m), descending to the Chhomrong Khola before ascending to Bamboo.
- Trekking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 8: Bamboo to Deurali
- Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3,230m), passing through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests.
- Enjoy views of Hiunchuli and Machapuchare.
- Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 9: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
- Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), entering the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Reach the base camp and enjoy stunning views of surrounding peaks.
- Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 10: ABC to Bamboo
- Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo, retracing your steps through the sanctuary.
- Trekking time: 7-8 hours.
Day 11: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda
- Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m), where you can relax in natural hot springs.
- Trekking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 12: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
- Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul.
- Drive back to Pokhara.
- Relax and celebrate the completion of the trek in Pokhara.
- Trekking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 13: Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Return to Kathmandu from Pokhara by either flight or road.
- Enjoy your last day in Kathmandu, exploring the city or shopping for souvenirs.
- Departure or extend your stay in Nepal.
Day 14: Shopping and preparation for final departure
- Spend the day shopping for souvenirs in Thamel or exploring the nearby town of Bhaktapur, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
- Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in the morning for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey or flight back home.
Exclude/Include
Included:
- Experienced local guide
- Porters for carrying luggage
- Permits and entry fees to the Annapurna Conservation Area
- Accommodation in tea houses or lodges along the trekking route
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Transportation to and from the trek starting/ending point (often from Pokhara)
- Sleeping bags and trekking poles (sometimes)
- First aid kit
- Oxygen cylinders and emergency evacuation arrangements (depending on the trekking company)
Excluded:
- International and domestic flights to/from Nepal
- Travel insurance (including emergency evacuation insurance)
- Trekking gear (such as clothing, boots, daypacks)
- Personal expenses (such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs)
- Tips for guides and porters (customary, but not mandatory)
- Additional expenses for unforeseen circumstances (such as extra nights due to bad weather)