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Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  • Private
  • Family
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking
Ghandruk Museum
Duration12 Days
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude4130 M
ActivitiesTrekking
Group Size1-12
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Best TimeMarch - May & September - November

About the trip

The snow-capped mountain peaks of the Himalayas carry a mystique that has drawn many an adventurer to their abode for decades. Of these great mountains, Mount Annapurna man-ups both the force of nature and human strength.

It's one of the major renowned trekking routes in northern central Nepal. Further adventure takes you to the foot of the 10th highest mountain in the world. These surrounding peaks of Annapurna Base Camp create a rundino of the most fascinating sight: the famous Mount Fishtail-Machhapuchre, Grand Dhaulagiri, the tall Annapurna Massif, and many other peaks. You can enjoy amazing views at every step and create lifetime memories throughout your trip.

We begin our trek from the lakeside town of Pokhara into the heart of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

It flows past paddy fields over which farmers go about their life normally – hills adding to the backdrop. The temperature drops as you keep climbing and rhododendrons, bamboo and pine trees make up the foliage. This is a place of magic where gods truly seem to meet, their icy tops touching the sky. Among such mountains stands high Annapurna I at 8091 meters, its tough snowy slopes good for even the best. Other members of this heavenly group are Annapurna South, Machapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  • Majestic sunrise views from Poon Hill (3,210 M)
  • Close-up views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountain
  • Opportunity for wildlife sightings including Himalayan Thar and various bird species
  • Breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna mountain range
  • Cultural encounters with Gurung and Magar villages and their hospitality
  • Diverse landscapes including lush forests, alpine meadows, and glacial moraines
  • Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
  • Tranquil atmosphere of Annapurna Base Camp itself

But the ABC Trek isn’t just about altitude and vistas; it’s also a cultural odyssey. Along the way, we encounter Gurung and Magar villages, where prayer flags flutter in the mountain breeze.

Finally, after days of anticipation, we arrive at Annapurna Base Camp. The air thins, and our breath mingles with the crisp mountain breeze. The amphitheater opens up, revealing a panorama of ice and rock.

Prayer flags flutter at the edge of the world, and we stand humbled by the vastness. The sun rises, casting a golden glow on the peaks, and we know we’ve reached a sacred place.

Join us, not merely as a traveler but as a seeker. Seeker of vistas that steal your breath, of stories etched in stone, of connections that transcend borders. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek isn’t just a journey; it’s an invitation—to witness the sublime, to dance with the elements, and to find yourself in the vastness.

Feel free to customize your itinerary based on your schedule and preferences! We're excited to craft a personalized trip just for you, ensuring it's exactly what you're looking for. Let us know your interests and availability, and we'll create an adventure that suits you perfectly.

So, pack your dreams, tie your shoelaces, and step into the embrace of the mountains. The Annapurnas await, ready to etch your name in their icy heart.

Itinerary

This is the suggested and usual schedule of Shikhar's Annapurna Base Camp Trekking. Everyone does, however, have various travel preferences as we are aware of. We therefore offer tailored designs geared to meet your specific needs and preferences. Right now, get in touch with our experienced staff to create the perfect travel plan completely satisfying your requirements and tastes. Please find the "customize trip" button that fits your travel today.

Trip PlanExpand All

Our rep will welcome you when you get at the airport. Then S/He will whisk you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. You have the whole day once you check in at the hotel. You can stop at surrounding locations or meander about Thamel's streets. On the other hand, you can lounge around the hotel and enjoy the surroundings.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Accommodation: Hotel

We'll head to the bus park to board our bus to Pokhara after eating breakfast about 8 in the morning. Pokhara is approximately 210 kilometers from Kathmandu, which will take us 7-8 hours to reach.

It’s a scenic drive which takes us along the scenic Trisuli and Marsyangdi River.

Pokhara is a beautiful lake city, situated in the lap of the Himalayas. If the weather is clear, you will be able to witness Mount Fishtail(Machhapuchre), and surrounding peaks in all its glory.

We reach Pokhara at around 3 in the afternoon. After checking in at the hotel, you can take a deserved rest after a long drive or you may explore by the beautiful Phewa Lake.

In the evening, you can try the Nepali style dinner, widely known as Thakali Khana, which includes variety of curry, pickles, rice, lentils, and several other items.

Max Altitude: 822 m / 2,697 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

After having our breakfast early in the morning, we start our drive towards Birethanti which takes approximately one and half hours. We then start our trekking to Ulleri via Tikhedhunga.

The route is flat and easy until we reach Tikhedhunga as we pass through several picturesque villages along the way, where take a break and have our lunch.

Then we begin to ascend slowly on stone paved steps headed for Ulleri. Renowned for its breathtaking surroundings, Ulleri is a lovely Magar village located 2,060 meters above sea level and a main destination for hikers. It shows traditional Nepali architecture among terraced fields and provides panoramic views of the Himalayan heights.

Max Altitude: 2,060 m / 6,760 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Today's route leads us across the captivating rhododendron woodland, where the blooming blossoms create bursts of color on the walkway, therefore adding still another level of attractiveness.

As we climb, charming towns like Banthanti and Nangee Thanti—each offering glimpses into the native way of life—appear.

Mostly Magar people live in Ghorepani, a beautiful town hidden behind a dense rhododendron forest. Ghorepani offers trekkers accommodation options and amazing views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges.

Max Altitude: 2,860 m / 9,380 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Rising early at 4 a.m., eager about the highlight of the day, we quickly got on our way to Poonhill. Perched at an elevation of 3,210 meters, promises an awe-inspiring spectacle: the sunrise casting its golden glow over the magnificent peaks of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhare (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), Lamjung Himal (6931m.), and countless other snow-capped giants.

Hiking down to Ghorepani, we have our breakfast and trek further to Tadapani.

Most of the trail we are on today is covered in rhododendrons and pine forests, which blossom in a riot of color in the spring. The lovely flowers transform the forest, painting it in shades of red, pink, and white, producing a captivating and picturesque landscape.

Max Altitude: 2,590 m / 8,497 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

After a big and delicious breakfast at the hotel, we set off on our hike, descending through mixed forests and over rapid streams. We cross the stream and ascend to Chhomrung, where we pause for lunch.

Following lunch, we will descend to Chomrong Khola and then rise to Sinuwa (2340 meters).

Sinuwa is a small village known for its peaceful environment and beautiful natural surroundings. The hamlet offers minimal services to tekkers and acts as a comfortable rest break on our journey.

Max Altitude: 2,340 m / 7,767 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Starting from Sinuwa, we progressively climb through lush rhododendron forests and bamboo groves. The trail provides glimpses of the magnificent Modi Khola river below as it travels through the valley.

The terrain becomes increasingly difficult and rocky as we approach Deurali, which is at an elevation of around 3,200 meters. Along the route, we pass through charming Himalayan villages and take in stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) (6,998 meters) and Hiunchuli (6,441 metres).

Max Altitude: 3,200 m / 10,500 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

The road we now follow runs directly toward the heart of Annapurna Santuary. From Sinuwa, we keep rising among alpine terrain and glacier streams. Among the amazing amphitheaters of great mountains the road finally spirals into are Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.

Along the road, we pass lush meadows studded with brilliant wildflowers to produce a stunning image against the great Himalayas.

Arriving at ABC, we are amazed and pleased to be surrounded by big mountains and vast views. Annapurna Base Camp towers 4,130 meters above sea level.

For visitors, the base camp offers a haven and the best vantage point for views of sunrise and sunset across the Himalayan snow-capped terrain.

Max Altitude: 4,130 m / 13,550 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Seeing the spectacular daybreak above the great Himalayas from Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), we go back to Sinuwa.

Getting Sinuwa from ABC should not be too difficult for most hikers. Still, descent sometimes causes issues including unstable or wobbly legs. Should you be in such a position, relax! Just contact our guide; they will arrange for you to stay at Bamboo instead. It's only around six to seven hours from ABC, and you will have the tools you need to seamlessly carry on your journey.

Max Altitude: 2,340 m / 7,767 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Having a good breakfast, we began our trek to Jhinu. We walk for around three hours before at last reaching Jhinu Dada.

Our trip to Jhinu among the most interesting is presented by the chance to explore the naturally occurring hot springs hidden close to the settlement. These quiet thermal baths offer the perfect opportunity for tired trekkers to unwind and refresh their bodies among the warm waters after days of walking.

After our leisurely walk in Jhinu, we set off a wonderful journey to Pokhara, meandering across almost one and a half hours of stunning landscape.

Max Altitude: 822 m / 2,697 ft Meals: Breakfast & LunchAccommodation: Hotel

We walk to the bus station from our breakfast at the Pokhara hotel. From there we board a tourist bus to return to Kathmandu. We will at last reach Kathmandu after a picturesque 6-7 hour trip including a lunch stop.

Optional: You can take flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu at an additional cost.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Your wonderful Annapurna Base Camp Trek ends today. Following breakfast, our representative will transport you to Tribhuvan International Airport, 3 hours before your departure time, for your onward flight.

Alternatively, if you so like, you might prolong your holiday and explore Nepal's beauties more thoroughly! Discover Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur to open a universe of possibilities; then, go much farther. Let us set up a variety of fascinating events so you may fully appreciate the rich history, culture, and beauty of this amazing nation.

Meals: Breakfast
Couldn't find what you're after?Reach out to our travel experts, who are eager to plan your trip according to your personal travel preferences.
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Cost Details
Included
  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport
  • Two nights in a tourist category(Alike: Hotel Simal) hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included
  • Two night in Pokhara in a similar standard hotel including breakfast
  • All transportation for the trek
  • Local guest house accommodation in mountain
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) fees
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
  • Government-authorized, experienced guide and porters
  • Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters
  • Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Sleeping bag, trekking stick and duffel bag (to be returned after completion of the trek)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Service charge and government taxes
Excluded
  • International airfare
  • Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (besides breakfast)
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, etc
  • Monument entrance fees during tour
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
Route Map
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Map
Altitude Chart
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Altitude Graph
Dates & Availability
Departure Date
Status
Price
Departure Date
Starts: October 22, 2024Ends: November 02, 2024
Status
Guaranteed
Price
US$750

Shikhar Adventure accepts no responsibility for weather-related problems, property damage, or other issues. We will, however, do our utmost to assist you in dealing with your issues. Weather-related delays in transportation to and from Pokhara might last for many days. To prevent missing a trip return to your home nation, schedule flights to and from Kathmandu several days in advance. If your flights go well, we'll help you plan activities for your buffer days. If you have a tight schedule and the roads out of Pokhara are delayed, you can take a flight back to Kathmandu for an extra cost.

Essential Information

How difficult is it to trek Annapurna Base Camp?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek which is also known as Annapurna Santuary trekking is a moderate trekking. The trail is relatively easier than numerous others treks in Nepal, however it promises both challenges and triumphs.

The difficulty level varies depending on factors like the weather conditions, and individual fitness levels. Some patches of the trek are steep and demanding, and some offer easier route through beautiful landscapes.

As an experienced trekking team, we are confident that practically anyone over ten years can successfully finish this adventure. The gradual ascent to the Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters should be relatively simple for both novice and seasoned trekkers. So, whether you're just a beginner or someone who is used to high altitude and trekking, keep in mind that you've got this!

Shikhar Adventure offers customizable hiking packages. You can tell us about your needs, requirements, fitness level, and any other relevant information, and we will personalize your journey accordingly.

What time of the year is best to trek Annapurna Base Camp?

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp mostly depends on personal tastes and the kind of experience you're looking for. The two main seasons for treking are generally spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Spring, from March until May

The moderate spring weather brings vibrant rhododendron blooms and rich flora to life in the landscape. Usually clear, the sky provide breathtaking views of the nearby mountains. But this is also a popular period for trekking, thus the paths and teahouses should get more traffic.

Autumn (September through November)

Conversely, autumn delivers consistent temperature and clear sky, so providing comfort. The monsoon rains have cleaned the air, offering first-rate view of the Himalayan heights. The reduced traffic on the paths than in the spring also makes a more peaceful walking experience possible.

Although the ideal seasons to hike to Annapurna Base Camp are spring and fall, every season offers special appeal and benefits.

Monsoom, from June to August,

Trekkers are rewarded by vivid vegetation and blossoming flowers along the path during the monsoon season, even if rain may cause paths to get slipper. Although trekking at this season calls for prudence and readiness for wet and muddy circumstances, the rich nature produces a beautiful scene.

Winter (December to February)

The Annapurna area is covered in snow in winter, providing amazing views of the Himalayan heights shining in the winter sunlight. Trekking in this season does, however, provide unique difficulties since the routes may be covered with snow, which makes navigating more difficult and maybe dangerous. Still, winter trekking at Annapurna Base Camp may be rather beautiful for those looking for a slower and more daring experience.

The optimal moment to start this journey will ultimately rely on your calendar, tastes, and degree of weather condition tolerance. Annapurna Base Camp guarantees an amazing trip among stunning scenery and cultural contacts regardless of the time you decide to hike.

Which permits will I need for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Two licenses are needed to visit Annapurna Base Camp: the Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).

Obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board and the TIMS office in Kathmandu from the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), the ACAP permit For the ACAP, the permits cost thirty dollars; for the TIMS, they run about twenty.

Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

If you are part of a party more than six adventurers, the cost for the basic 12-day expedition is reasonably US $750.Not to worry for smaller gatherings! Our pricing changes with participant count to guarantee everyone gets the best deal available. Discover the amazing Annapurna area with Shikhar Adventure on a budget that fits you!