The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most famous and rewarding trekking routes. Starting from the lush lowlands of Pokhara, this journey takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering Himalayan giants like Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). This moderate-level trek blends natural beauty, rich Gurung culture, and scenic diversity—from green terraced fields and dense rhododendron forests to icy alpine landscapes.
Trip Info
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All Time
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Car/Flight/ Car/ Tourist bus
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4-5 Hours
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Hotel / Tea Houses
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4,130 meters – Annapurna Base Camp
Overview
Perfect for those with limited time yet strong trekking enthusiasm, this 10-day ABC trek promises high-altitude adventure, incredible sunrise views, peaceful trails, and local hospitality.
Trip Highlights
- Spectacular sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m)
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) surrounded by Himalayan peaks
- Trek through charming Gurung villages like Chhomrong and Ghandruk
- Stunning views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli
Itinerary
Drive: 1.5–2 hours
Trek: 4–5 hours
Route
Pokhara → Nayapul → Birethanti → Kimche → Ghandruk
Scenery
Terraced farmlands, traditional Gurung villages, forest trails, and views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
Overnight
Ghandruk
Trek: 5–6 hours
Route
Ghandruk → Kimrong Khola → Kimrong Danda → Chhomrong
Scenery
Stone staircases, rhododendron forests, river valleys, and panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Overnight
Chhomrong
Trek: 5–6 hours
Route
Chhomrong → Chhomrong Khola → Sinuwa → Bamboo → Dovan
Scenery
Dense bamboo forests, waterfalls, moss-covered trees, and the rushing Modi Khola River.
Overnight
Dovan
Trek: 5–6 hours
Route
Dovan → Himalaya → Hinku Cave → Deurali
Scenery
Narrow valleys, alpine forests, rocky cliffs, glacier-fed streams, and increasingly dramatic mountain landscapes.
Overnight
Deurali
Trek: 5–6 hours
Route
Deurali → Bagar → Machhapuchhre Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp
Scenery
Glacial moraines, snow-covered peaks, wide alpine terrain, and stunning views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
Overnight
Annapurna Base Camp
Trek: 6–7 hours
Route
Annapurna Base Camp → Machhapuchhre Base Camp → Deurali → Himalaya → Dovan → Bamboo
Scenery
Morning views of the Annapurna Sanctuary, glaciers, mountain walls, alpine valleys, and forested trails.
Overnight
Bamboo
Trek: 5–6 hours
Route
Bamboo → Sinuwa → Chhomrong → Jhinu Danda
Scenery
Bamboo forests, mountain villages, terraced hillsides, and river valleys.
Overnight
Jhinu Danda
Trek: 2–3 hours
Drive: 2–3 hours
Route
Jhinu Danda → Siwai → Nayapul → Pokhara
Scenery
Farmlands, traditional settlements, riverside trails, and green hills.
Overnight
Pokhara
Pokhara Sightseeing
Scenery
Phewa Lake, surrounding hills, mountain reflections, caves, and viewpoints overlooking the Annapurna range.
Overnight
Pokhara
Drive: 6–8 hours or Flight: 25 minutes
Route
Pokhara → Kathmandu
Scenery
River valleys, terraced hills, rural settlements, and distant Himalayan landscapes.
Complete Trek Route
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Airport transfers (if starting from Kathmandu)
- All ground transportation (Pokhara-Nayapul-Siwai-Pokhara)
- Licensed, English-speaking guide and porter (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- 3 meals per day during the trek (B/L/D)
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System) card
- Government taxes and service charges
Excludes
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- International flights
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, charging)
- Tips for guide and porter
FAQs
General
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate Himalayan adventure suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The trek reaches an altitude of 4,130 m and offers spectacular views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding peaks. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for clear mountain views and comfortable trekking conditions. Explore Himalayan takes care of permits, experienced guides, accommodation, and logistics, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free trekking experience
It is a moderate trek suitable for beginners with good fitness and experienced trekkers alike.
The trek duration range from 8 to 10 days, depending on the route and pace.
The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for the ABC trek. However, it is highly recommended due to the risks associated with high-altitude trekking and emergency situations.
No, previous trekking experience is not mandatory, but basic fitness is recommended.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons for the trek.
Yes, beginners can complete the trek with proper preparation and guidance.
Yes, trekking with a licensed guide is required under current Nepal trekking regulations.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required for the trek.
Altitude sickness is possible above 3,000 m, so proper acclimatization is important.
Teahouses and mountain lodges provide basic but comfortable accommodation throughout the route.
Most teahouses serve Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and basic continental dishes like Dal bhat, momo, dhido, chapati, bread and so on.
Trekkers expect to walk approximately 5–7 hours per day on average.
Trekkers can experience the view of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
Wi-Fi is available in many villages but may be slow and chargeable.
Most teahouses offer charging services for an additional fee.
Temperatures can range from 15°C during the day to below freezing at night.
Warm layers, trekking boots, rain gear, sunglasses, gloves, and a sleeping bag are recommended.
-No, you cannot drink tap water directly during the Annapurna Base Camp trek because it is untreated and can cause severe waterborne illnesses.
Yes, safe drinking water can be purchased or treated along the trail.
No reliable ATMs are available on the trail, so carry sufficient cash is recommended.
Current regulations require trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide.
A moderate level of fitness and regular walking or hiking preparation is sufficient.
Most Annapurna Base Camp treks start from Nayapul, Ghandruk, or Jhinu Danda.
Hot showers are available in most teahouses for an extra charge.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers breathtaking views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. Trekkers pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, waterfalls, and scenic river valleys. The highlight is reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Optional attractions include the famous Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint and the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
The trail can be busy during peak spring and autumn trekking seasons.
Trekkers pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, experiencing local Himalayan culture and hospitality.
The trek offers diverse landscapes, rich culture, and spectacular mountain scenery within a relatively short duration
Explore Himalayan provides experienced guides, personalized service, quality logistics, and local expertise to ensure a safe and memorable trekking experience.
