What is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The ideal seasons are pre-monsoon (February–May) and post-monsoon (September–December). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and the best views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

How difficult is the trek? Do I need prior experience?

The ABC trek is considered moderate in difficulty. A good level of physical fitness is recommended, along with proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory.

What kind of accommodation and facilities are available on the trail?

Teahouses and lodges are available in most villages along the route. They provide basic rooms, meals, and hot showers in some places. It’s advisable to carry personal essentials, warm clothing, and cash for small purchases.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular Himalayan treks, usually taking 7–12 days to complete. The trek reaches an altitude of 4,130 meters, so a good level of fitness and proper acclimatisation are essential to prevent altitude sickness. Along the trail, trekkers are treated to stunning and varied landscapes, from lush forests and cascading waterfalls to breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range. The journey also offers cultural experiences, with visits to traditional Gurung and Magar villages. The best time to trek is during the pre-monsoon (February–May) and post-monsoon (September–December) seasons. Comfortable teahouse accommodations are available throughout the route.

Best Season
Autunm/Spring
Transportation
Hotel/Lodge/Tea House during the trek
Walking Hours
4-5 Hours
Accomodation
Hotel / Tea Houses
Maximum Altitude
4135m.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is renowned for its dramatic slopes, snow-capped peaks, and picturesque valleys. Today, it attracts numerous trekkers from around the world. Beyond its natural beauty, the trail is rich in cultural heritage, making the journey even more rewarding. This trek has quickly become a favourite among adventure seekers, offering breathtaking Himalayan views that will leave your heart smiling. Along the way, the warm hospitality of local tribes adds a special touch, making every stop memorable.

Trip Highlights

Observe gorgeous sunrise from Poon Hill along with a stretching view of the Himalayan range.
Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, two popular tourist cities in Nepal.
Trek through lush forests, valleys, and traditional Nepali villages.
Reach the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp.
Witness stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes on this 7/10/13 days trek in the western Himalayas of Nepal.
Enjoy natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
Spend nights in villages, where you will get to see the lifestyle of the mountain people and their practices.
Learn about the traditions and culture of the Gurung people in Ghandruk village.
Experience hiking through forests ablaze with red rhododendrons in the spring.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Transfer to Hotel

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day relaxing and acclimatizing to the city’s atmosphere. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, visit nearby temples, or prepare for the trekking adventure ahead. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 02 :

Drive to Pokhara (Approx. 200 km / 6–8 hours)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus. The journey passes through picturesque landscapes, including terraced fields, rivers, and charming villages, offering glimpses of rural Nepalese life. Arrive in Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city nestled at the base of the Annapurna range. Check in to your hotel and spend the evening exploring the city or relaxing by Phewa Lake. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 03 :

Drive to Birethanti & Trek to Ulleri (2,020m) – 5–6 Hours

After an early breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Nayapul/Birethanti, the starting point of your trek. From here, begin your trek through lush forests, charming villages, and scenic trails along the Modi River. Pass through traditional Gurung and Magar settlements, enjoying glimpses of local life. The day’s hike gradually ascends to Ulleri (2,020m), a village famous for its long stone stairway. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Ulleri.

Day 04 :

Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,840m) – 5–6 Hours

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before trekking from Ulleri to Ghorepani. The trail ascends through dense rhododendron and oak forests, offering occasional glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere as you pass small settlements along the way. Reach Ghorepani (2,840m), a charming village known for its stunning mountain views. Spend the evening relaxing and soaking in the serene Himalayan surroundings. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Ghorepani.

Day 05 :

Poon Hill Sunrise Hike & Trek to Tadapani (2,610m) – 6–7 Hours

Wake up early to hike to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges—a truly unforgettable Himalayan panorama. After enjoying the view, return to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing your trek to Tadapani (2,610m). The trail winds through lush forests, rhododendron groves, and charming villages, offering glimpses of local life along the way. Reach Tadapani in the afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Tadapani.

Day 06 :

Trek from Tadapani to Sinuwa (2,340m) – 5–6 Hours

After breakfast, continue your trek from Tadapani through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings. The trail gradually descends into a beautiful valley, leading to the village of Sinuwa (2,340m). Along the way, experience the charm of small settlements and the tranquility of the Himalayan landscape. Arrive in Sinuwa by afternoon, where you can relax and soak in the serene atmosphere. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Sinuwa.

Day 07 :

Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,230m) – 5–6 Hours

After breakfast, begin your trek from Sinuwa, ascending gradually through lush forests and scenic trails. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains as you pass small villages and traditional settlements. The trail steadily climbs to Deurali (3,230m), a peaceful stopover offering spectacular Himalayan vistas. Arrive by afternoon, take time to rest, and acclimatize to the higher altitude. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Deurali.

Day 08 :

Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) – 5–6 Hours

After an early breakfast, start your trek from Deurali toward the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). The trail passes through the famous MBC (Machapuchare Base Camp) area, with dramatic mountain scenery, moraine landscapes, and glacial streams. As you approach ABC, the full panorama of the Annapurna Massif unfolds, surrounded by towering peaks. Arrive at Annapurna Base Camp in the afternoon, take in the breathtaking 360-degree Himalayan views, and celebrate reaching one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking destinations. Overnight stay in a teahouse at ABC.

Day 09 :

Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,345m) – 6–7 Hours

After enjoying a final morning at Annapurna Base Camp, begin your descent toward Bamboo (2,345m). The trail passes through diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows, forests, and charming villages, offering a different perspective of the Annapurna range. Take in the serene surroundings and peaceful mountain atmosphere as you descend. Arrive at Bamboo by afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Bamboo.

Day 10 :

Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m) – 5–6 Hours

After breakfast, continue your descent from Bamboo through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming local villages. The trail gradually leads to Jhinu Danda (1,780m), famous for its natural hot springs. Upon arrival, you can relax and soak in the warm springs, a perfect way to rejuvenate tired muscles after days of trekking. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views of the Modi River valley. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Jhinu Danda.

Day 11 :

Trek from Jhinu Danda to Syauli Bazaar & Drive to Pokhara (Approx. 4–5 Hours Trek + 1 Hour Drive)

After breakfast, begin your final trek from Jhinu Danda to Syauli Bazaar, passing through terraced fields, small villages, and riverside trails. Enjoy the last glimpses of the Annapurna foothills along the way. Upon reaching Syauli Bazaar, drive back to Pokhara, where you can relax at your hotel and celebrate the completion of your trek. Spend the evening exploring the city or enjoying the serene views of Phewa Lake. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 12 :

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (Approx. 6–8 Hours)

After breakfast, depart from Pokhara and enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The journey offers stunning views of rivers, terraced fields, and quaint villages along the way. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in to your hotel and spend the evening relaxing or exploring the city. This marks the conclusion of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 13 :

Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport – Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your onward flight. Bid farewell to Nepal, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Annapurna Base Camp trek, breathtaking Himalayan scenery, and the warm hospitality of the local people.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

International & Domestic Airport Transfers: Convenient pick-up and drop-off services by car for both international and domestic airports.
Meals During the Trek: Enjoy three daily meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—during your trek in the mountains.
Accommodation in Kathmandu: Two nights of standard accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, on a twin-sharing basis, including breakfast.
Experienced Trekking Guide: An English-speaking, government-registered trekking guide with extensive knowledge and experience.
Sherpa Porters: Strong and supportive Sherpa porters equipped with proper safety and walking gear. Includes their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter per two trekkers).
Flights: Return flights between Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Local Transportation: Transportation by car or jeep from Pokhara to Siwai and from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara.
Porter and Guide Expenses: All food, accommodation, insurance, and transportation costs for the porter and guide.
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card.
Gear Rental: Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if needed), to be returned after the trip.
Trekking Lodge (Tea House) Stays: Comfortable lodging throughout your trek. (Accommodation Notice ) "During peak trekking seasons (mid-March to end of May & mid-September to end of November), teahouses in regions such as the Himalayas, Deurali, MBC, Annapurna Base Camp, and Bamboo typically offer shared rooms with 4–5 beds. Private rooms are generally not available during this time due to high demand. Please be prepared for shared lodging, as this is the standard accommodation setup in these high-traffic areas."
Assistant Guide: An additional assistant guide for groups larger than 8 people.
Fresh Fruits: Seasonal fresh fruits are provided daily.
Completion Certificate: An appreciation certificate awarded after a successful trek.
Emergency Assistance: Support for arranging emergency rescue operations in complex health conditions (funded by travel insurance).
Oximeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.

Cost Excludes

Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Nepal Entry Visa Fee: Visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport costs $30 USD for 15 days, $50 USD for 30 days, and $125 USD for 90 days.
Travel and Medical Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance.
International Airfare: Flights to and from Nepal.
Personal Expenses: Any personal expenditures, including shopping and souvenirs.
Beverages and Extra Food: Costs for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, soups, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and any additional food or drinks purchased along the trek or in tea houses.
Desserts and Sweets: All desserts and sweet items such as chocolate, cake, pie, and pudding.
Hot Showers and Battery Charging: Charges for hot showers and battery charging at tea houses.
Tips: Tips for your guide, porter, and driver.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs