Annapurna Base Camp

Overview

Itinerary

Include & Exclude

Important Info

Equipments

FAQs

Trip overview

  • Activity
    Trekking
  • Duration
    14 days
  • Difficulty:
    Challenging
  • Altitude
    5545 M
  • Group Size
    1 to 12
  • Age
    16 to 65 years

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Duration: 14 days

GBP 2145

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The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and rewarding trekking adventures, leading deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna, this trek offers a dramatic mix of landscapes, cultures, and climates within a relatively short journey.

Starting from the vibrant lakeside city of Pokhara, the trail winds through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, terraced farmlands, and dense rhododendron and bamboo forests. As you ascend higher through Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali, the air grows thinner and the scenery transforms from lush subtropical greenery to rugged alpine terrain surrounded by towering snowy peaks.
The highlight of the journey is reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, a vast natural amphitheater encircled by Himalayan giants. Standing here feels surreal—the sunrise over Annapurna I and Machapuchare paints the mountains in hues of gold and crimson, creating one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the Himalayas.

Throughout the trek, you experience a fascinating blend of culture and nature. Local teahouses along the trail offer warm hospitality, authentic Nepali meals, and insight into the mountain way of life. The route also passes through Machapuchare Base Camp at 3,700 meters, offering a perfect acclimatization stop before the final ascent to Annapurna Base Camp.

After soaking in the incredible views, the return journey retraces your steps down the valley, passing through Jhinu Danda, where trekkers can relax in natural hot springs by the riverside—the perfect way to unwind after days of trekking in the Himalayas.

From the subtropical lowlands to the icy heart of the mountains, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek captures the full essence of Nepal—its beauty, spirituality, and adventure—all within a single, unforgettable journey.

Highlights

  • Trek to Everest Base Camp on a carefully paced itinerary designed for safer acclimatisation
  • Climb Kala Pattar (5545m) for unrivalled views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and surrounding peaks
  • Enjoy the scenic mountain flight to Lukla, taking in breathtaking aerial views of the Himalaya

Itinerary

Day : Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule
Day 1 of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins early in the morning with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. After breakfast, we board a tourist bus that takes us along the winding Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. The journey offers a glimpse of Nepal’s countryside, with terraced farmlands, traditional villages, and distant views of the Himalayan ranges, including Annapurna, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal. Upon reaching Pokhara, the beautiful lakeside city known as the gateway to the Annapurna region, we check into our hotel and prepare for the trek that begins the next day.
After a hearty breakfast, we begin our first day on the Annapurna Base Camp trail. The trek starts with a gradual ascent through lush forests and terraced farmlands, following the gentle flow of the Modi Khola River. Along the way, we pass through charming Gurung villages, where you can experience the warmth of local hospitality and traditional mountain life. The trail offers a mix of shaded jungle paths and open ridgelines with views of the surrounding hills. After enjoying a relaxed lunch along the route, we continue our steady climb until we reach the village of Ghandruk, a beautiful hillside settlement known for its traditional stone houses and panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare.
We begin the third day of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with an early morning start, following the trail that ascends steadily through dense forests and terraced farmlands. The path winds along the Modi Khola River, crossing several suspension bridges and passing through small traditional settlements surrounded by fields of rice, millet, and barley. As we continue, the landscape gradually changes—lush forests give way to more open hillsides with glimpses of snow-covered peaks in the distance. We take a relaxing lunch break along the way before continuing our ascent to Chhomrong, a picturesque Gurung village perched on the hillside. From here, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Annapurna South and the sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), marking the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
We leave Chhomrong after breakfast and begin descending through a series of stone steps to cross the suspension bridge over the Chhomrong Khola. From here, the trail climbs steeply through a lush forest filled with bamboo, rhododendron, and oak trees, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere. The sound of the flowing Modi Khola accompanies us as we make our way toward the village of Sinuwa, a quiet stop surrounded by dense greenery. Continuing deeper into the valley, the path undulates through forested terrain, occasionally opening up to breathtaking views of Machapuchare and Hiunchuli. Along the way, we can take a short break at Bamboo village, known for its peaceful riverside teahouses and nearby hot springs. The day’s journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and the gradual transition into the higher alpine environment that awaits ahead.
After breakfast, we begin our trek through a steep, narrow valley surrounded by dense forests and towering cliffs. As we ascend, the landscape starts to open up, revealing the first glimpses of the majestic Annapurna range. The trail offers a mix of uphill climbs and gentle walks along the riverbanks, with the distant sound of the Modi Khola echoing through the valley. Gradually, the vegetation becomes sparser, and we reach a dramatic point where the valley widens to unveil the breathtaking sight of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli standing tall above us. The trail then leads to the village of Dovan and onwards to Himalaya, both nestled amid serene forests and cascading waterfalls. These peaceful mountain settlements mark our entry into the higher elevations of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Tonight, we stay in Himalaya, surrounded by towering rock walls and the constant hum of the river — a perfect prelude to the alpine landscapes awaiting us higher up toward Annapurna Base Camp.
On the sixth day, we continue our journey deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, following an uphill trail that gradually takes us above the tree line. The air becomes cooler and thinner as we move higher through bamboo and rhododendron forests, eventually giving way to rugged alpine terrain. Along the way, we pass small settlements where prayer flags flutter in the mountain breeze, signaling the deep Buddhist influence of the region. The trail opens up to wide, panoramic views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Hiunchuli — an awe-inspiring sight that makes every step worthwhile. As we continue toward Deurali, the landscape turns dramatic, with steep cliffs, glacial streams, and scattered shrubs replacing the dense vegetation below. You’ll also notice several small chortens (Buddhist shrines) and mani walls along the way, adding a spiritual atmosphere to the high-altitude surroundings. We end the day at Deurali, a serene mountain stop nestled beneath towering rock faces. The evening offers a chance to rest and acclimatize before our final ascent toward Machapuchare Base Camp the next day.
Today is our acclimatization day, allowing our bodies to adjust to the increasing altitude before heading higher toward Annapurna Base Camp. Though it’s a rest day, we’ll stay active to help with acclimatization while exploring the beautiful surroundings. In the morning, we can take a short hike up to the nearby viewpoint for panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding peaks. Those with more energy may continue toward the ridge above Deurali or visit a small glacial viewpoint to experience the raw beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Throughout the day, we’ll soak in the mountain atmosphere, enjoy warm meals at our teahouse, and interact with other trekkers preparing for their summit to Annapurna Base Camp. In the evening, our guide will brief us about the upcoming route, the effects of higher altitude, and safety precautions for the following day’s ascent.
After a restful night and proper acclimatization, we continue our journey toward higher altitudes. Leaving Deurali after breakfast, we follow the trail that gradually ascends along the Modi Khola River. The valley narrows into a steep gorge, and the landscape becomes increasingly barren, with patches of grass and scattered shrubs replacing the dense forests below. As we gain elevation, the views become even more spectacular. Towering peaks such as Machapuchare, Annapurna I, and Hiunchuli dominate the skyline, while waterfalls cascade down rocky cliffs along the trail. We’ll pass through Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m), a stunning spot surrounded by dramatic peaks on all sides. The air feels thinner here, and the silence of the mountains is almost spiritual. After a short rest and lunch at Machapuchare Base Camp, we continue a gradual uphill climb through glacial terrain before finally reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). Here, the full 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna range unfolds—Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Tent Peak all towering above you. We’ll spend the evening soaking in the incredible views and the pure serenity of being in the heart of the Himalayas.
Today, we make our final ascent toward Annapurna Base Camp. Leaving Machapuchare Base Camp after breakfast, we follow a gradual uphill trail that winds through glacial moraine and alpine meadows. The scenery grows increasingly dramatic, with towering snow-clad peaks closing in from all sides — Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare, and Tent Peak forming a breathtaking amphitheater around us. As we climb higher, the air becomes noticeably thinner and colder, and the landscape turns stark and rugged, giving a surreal sense of isolation. The final stretch to Annapurna Base Camp is steady but rewarding, offering panoramic views that get more impressive with each step. Upon reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, we find ourselves standing in the heart of the Himalayas, surrounded by a 360-degree view of the Annapurna range. The sheer scale and silence of the mountains are humbling. After a well-deserved rest and time to take in the incredible scenery, we settle into a cozy teahouse to spend the night under a sky full of stars, with the towering peaks glowing faintly in the moonlight.
This day marks one of the most memorable highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek as we make our way back from the base camp. Waking up early, we witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna range — the golden rays illuminating the icy peaks of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli. After breakfast, we begin our descent from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo, retracing our steps through Machapuchare Base Camp and Deurali. The trail is mostly downhill, passing through rocky paths and lush forests, with frequent glimpses of the mountains behind us. Though descending is easier on the lungs, it can be tough on the knees, so a steady pace is essential. As we lose altitude, the air becomes warmer, and greenery slowly returns to the landscape. By the time we reach Bamboo, the surroundings feel completely different — vibrant with vegetation, the soothing sound of the Modi Khola flowing nearby, and teahouses nestled among thick bamboo groves. After a long day of trekking, we rest here for the night, surrounded by the refreshing forest that marks our return to lower elevations.
In the morning, we enjoy a final look at the stunning mountain scenery before beginning our descent toward Jhinu Danda. The trail passes through dense forests, vibrant with bamboo, rhododendron, and oak, as we make our way down from Bamboo and Sinuwa. We stop for lunch along the way, enjoying the warmth of the lower altitude and the sound of the Modi Khola rushing below. By afternoon, we reach Jhinu Danda, a beautiful hillside village famous for its natural hot springs. After days of trekking through cold alpine terrain, this is the perfect reward. A short walk down to the riverside brings us to the thermal pools, where we can soak and relax our tired muscles while listening to the flow of the river and taking in the peaceful surroundings. The hot springs of Jhinu Danda are said to have healing properties, and it’s a great way to end the day — rejuvenated, relaxed, and surrounded by the serenity of the Himalayas.
Leaving Jhinu Danda after breakfast, we follow the trail that descends to cross the Modi Khola River and then begins a gradual ascent through terraced farmlands and scattered villages. The route offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, with glimpses of the Annapurna range appearing between the trees. As we climb higher, the trail winds through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and magnolia — especially vibrant during spring when the flowers are in full bloom. We pass through small Gurung and Magar settlements, where life flows quietly amidst the mountains. The ascent is steady but rewarding, as each turn reveals wider mountain vistas and crisp alpine air. By late afternoon, we reach Ghorepani, a charming village perched on a ridge surrounded by rhododendron forests. The village offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna peaks, and it serves as the gateway to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. We rest here for the night, preparing for an early morning hike to catch the sunrise from one of Nepal’s most scenic spots.
On the final day of our Annapurna Base Camp Trek, we start early before dawn for a short hike up to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters. The climb takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and as we reach the top, the first rays of sunlight begin to touch the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The view from here is absolutely breathtaking — a golden panorama of mountains including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Nilgiri glowing under the morning sun. Poon Hill is one of Nepal’s most iconic viewpoints and a favorite spot for photographers. We take our time capturing the magnificent scenery and soaking in the moment before heading back down to Ghorepani for breakfast. After breakfast, we begin our descent toward Tikhedhunga, passing through rhododendron forests and charming hillside villages. The trail is filled with the sounds of birds and the laughter of local children along the way. Upon reaching Tikhedhunga, we board a local bus that takes us back to Pokhara. By evening, we arrive in Pokhara — tired but deeply fulfilled — marking the end of an unforgettable trekking adventure through the heart of the Annapurna region.
Today marks the end of your Annapurna Base Camp adventure. After breakfast in Pokhara, we begin our journey back to Kathmandu. The scenic drive of about 200 kilometers follows the winding Prithvi Highway, tracing the course of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers, with beautiful views of terraced fields, green hills, and small roadside towns along the way. For those who prefer a quicker option, you can choose to return by a short 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (not included in the package), offering a final aerial glimpse of the Himalayas you’ve just trekked through. Upon reaching Kathmandu, your memorable Annapurna Base Camp Trek officially comes to an end. You can spend the evening relaxing at your hotel, exploring the city’s vibrant streets, or celebrating the successful completion of your Himalayan journey.

Included

  • Pick up from and drop off to Tribhuvan Airport to your hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Transportation (local, private or flight) as outlined in itinerary
  • Accomodation during trekking
  • Licensed and experienced guides and porters
  • Necessary permits for trekking

Excluded

  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Entry Visa fee to Nepal
  • Insurance
  • Accomodation in Kathmandu
  • International airfare
  • Personal expenses (alcohol, shopping, beverages, meals, etc)
  • Hot shower and battery charging at the teahouses.
  • Tips for porter, guider or driver (they expect tips*)

Important Info

We’ve shared this information to make your travel planning a little easier. Some details can change with the season or the way you like to travel. If you’re unsure about anything, just reach out — we’ll happily share tips and advice that fit your plans perfectly.

Equipments

Clothing

  • Trekking shirts (2-3)
  • Trekking trousers/pants (2) and hiking shorts (optional)
  • Fleece jacket or warm mid-layer
  • Waterproof and windproof winter jacket
  • Ski trousers or overpants
  • Base layers/thermals (top and bottom, merino wool ideal)
  • Gloves: inner gloves and waterproof gloves/mittens
  • Warm hat (wool or fleece)
  • Sunhat or sports cap
  • Neck gaiters or balaclavas
  • Hiking socks (thermal and regular wool/synthetic blend)
  • Spare underwear

Footwear

  • Worn-in waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support
  • Lightweight trainers or walking shoes for evenings
  • Gaiters (especially for winter or muddy conditions)
  • Sandals or flip-flops for accommodation comfort

Backpack & Bags

  • Large backpack (45-65 liters depending on your style)
  • Comfortable day pack (30-40 liters) for daily essentials
  • Dry bags or waterproof covers for protecting gear
  • Duffel bag (for porter, limit approx 10 kg)

Sleeping Gear

  • Four-season sleeping bag rated for low temperatures (down sleeping bags recommended)
  • Sleeping bag liner for extra warmth and hygiene
  • Small travel pillow or pillowcase (optional)

Trekking Accessories

  • Trekking poles (adjustable and lightweight)
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with sun protection
  • Water bottles (1-2 liters) and/or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or filtration system
  • Travel towel (microfiber)
  • Personal first aid kit including painkillers, blister care, disinfectants
  • Hand sanitizer and biodegradable wet wipes
  • Small biodegradable bags for waste (toilet paper disposal)
  • Passport photos for permits
  • Trekking permits and identification documents

Electronics and Miscellaneous

  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Power bank and universal plug adapter
  • Camera with batteries and memory cards
  • Optional: E-reader, binoculars, journal and pen, playing cards

Optional Comfort Items

  • Safety whistle (for emergencies)
  • Hand warmers or hot water bottle for cold nights
  • Small gifts or souvenirs to exchange with locals

Female Travelers

  • Moisture-wicking, quick-drying women’s underwear designed for comfort and hygiene on long treks
  • Sports bras or supportive trekking bras made of breathable fabric
  • Small, resealable waterproof bags for discreet disposal of feminine hygiene products
  • Biodegradable sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups (consider water sanitation for cups)
  • Compact privacy poncho or cover for changing clothes in open areas
  • Extra hand sanitizer and personal hygiene wipes
  • Women-specific hiking socks and properly fitting lightweight gloves for better comfort
  • Lightweight scarves/shawls for sun protection and modesty in local villages
  • Anti-chafing balm to prevent skin irritation during long walks
  • Personal safety items such as a whistle or personal alarm
  • Lockable money belt or pouch to secure valuables

FAQs

What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
It is a long-distance trekking route circling the Annapurna mountain range, known for diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and the high Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m.
Yes, as of 2025, trekking without a licensed guide is illegal and risky; guides enhance safety and cultural experience.​
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card are mandatory and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Manang.​
Scenic villages (Chame, Pisang, Manang), Thorong La Pass, Muktinath temple, and views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare mountains.
Yes, many extend their trek to include ABC for more mountain views but this requires additional days and fitness.
Tea houses along the route offer basic rooms and meals; standards improve closer to populated areas.
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are ideal for clear skies and moderate temperatures.
Thorong La Pass is at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), the most challenging and highest point of the trek.
Not legally in 2025; solo trekking without a guide is prohibited for safety reasons.
Coverage is patchy; better in towns like Manang but often unavailable in remote sections.​

Best Seller

Duration: 14 days

GBP 2145

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Best Seller

Duration: 14 days

GBP 2145

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Continue

  • Subtotal

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