Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 11 Days
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic treks, offering a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and jaw-dropping Himalayan scenery. In just 10–11 days, you walk through lush forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, high mountain passes, and finally reach the heart of the Annapurna range—Annapurna Base Camp itself.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, either by a scenic drive or a short domestic flight to Pokhara. From there, the trek starts at Nayapul and takes you through charming villages like Tikhedunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chomrong, giving you a glimpse of local life, terraced farms, and colorful prayer flags along the way.
One of the highlights of the trek is the early morning climb to Poon Hill, where you witness a panoramic sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges—an unforgettable experience. As you continue, the trail gradually gains altitude through Machhapuchhare Base Camp, eventually leading you to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), surrounded by massive snow-covered peaks and glacial valleys.
The trek also offers relaxing moments along the way, like the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, where you can soak your tired muscles and enjoy the serene mountain environment. On the descent, the trail gradually leads back to Nayapul and Pokhara, where you can celebrate the end of your trek with a warm meal, reflecting on the adventure.
This trek is ideal for both first-time and experienced trekkers who want to combine cultural experiences, comfortable lodges, and awe-inspiring Himalayan views—all in a relatively short but highly rewarding journey.
Itinerary
Drive/Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara(822m)
- Altitude: 1400
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Lunch/Dinner
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and then Drive to Thikhedhunga(1510m)
- Altitude: 1400
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: B/L/D
Trek to Ghorepani(2850m)
- Altitude: 820
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill(3210m) and then Trek to Tadapani(2610m)
- Altitude: 1540
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Trek to Chhomrong(2170m)
- Altitude: 2860
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Trek to Himalaya(2820m)
- Altitude: 2860
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Trek to MBC(3700m) and ABC(4130m)
- Altitude: 3210
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Trek to Bamboo(2815m)
- Altitude: 2360
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Trek to Jhinu Danda(1420) and Enjoy Hot Spring
- Altitude: 2600
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara
- Altitude: 3200
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Return to Kathmandu via Drive/Flight
- Altitude: 4130
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Our Cost's
Cost Includes
- Professional trekking guide and support staff for safety and smooth trekking.
- Accommodation in tea houses/lodges along the trail.
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
- All necessary trekking permits, including Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu (arrival and departure).
- Transportation to and from the trailhead.
- Optional porters to carry luggage for a more comfortable trekking experience.
- Emergency support and first aid kit available throughout the trek.
- Pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu covering the route, safety, and cultural insights.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal visa fees for entry.
- Travel insurance (mandatory for trekking, including high-altitude medical evacuation).
- Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and hot showers.
- Trekking gear and equipment like sleeping bags, trekking boots, jackets, and walking sticks.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Optional activities or side trips not mentioned in the itinerary.
FAQ's
The ideal trekking seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the Himalayan panorama is at its best.
The trek takes 17 days, covering approximately 110–120 km round trip, including gradual ascents and descents through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and alpine landscapes.
The ABC trek is considered moderate to challenging. Trekkers should have a good level of fitness due to long daily hikes (5–8 hours) and altitudes up to 4,130 m at ABC.
While experienced trekkers can do it independently, hiring a local guide is recommended for safety, navigation, cultural insight, and altitude advice, especially for first-time visitors.
You need:
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Accommodation is mostly in tea houses and lodges, offering basic rooms and meals. Hot showers are available in some lodges. A sleeping bag is recommended for comfort at higher altitudes.
It is suitable for beginners with moderate fitness, proper preparation, and acclimatization. Prior trekking experience helps, but a guide makes the trek much safer.
Yes, tea houses provide Nepali meals like dal bhat, noodles, soups, and snacks. Water purification tablets or boiled water are recommended for safety.
