The easiest way to get from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp is to travel to Pokhara by tourist bus, local bus, domestic flight, or private vehicle, continue by road to the trek’s starting point (such as Nayapul, Birethanti, Jhinu Danda, Siwai, or Kimche, depending on your itinerary), and then hike for several days to Annapurna Base Camp. If you are planning to hike to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) in Nepal, this is probably the first question on your mind: How do I get from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek doesn’t start in Kathmandu. Instead, you first need to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal’s main gateway to the Annapurna region, and then continue by private car, taxi, jeep, or local bus to the trek’s starting point. From there, it typically takes 4–6 trekking days to reach Annapurna Base Camp, depending on your itinerary, as you pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
Unlike the Everest Base Camp Trek, where most trekkers fly to Lukla, reaching Annapurna Base Camp involves a combination of road or air travel to Pokhara, followed by a scenic drive to the trailhead. The good news is that getting to Annapurna Base Camp is straightforward and suitable for every budget. You can travel by tourist bus, domestic flight, private vehicle, or even helicopter, depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style.
In this guide, I’ll share my firsthand knowledge of the ABC Trek. Over more than a decade of guiding in the Himalayas, the last time I counted, I had stood at Annapurna Base Camp 37 times. I’ll explain every transportation option, including travel times, costs, trekking starting points, and local recommendations to help you choose the most convenient route for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp
The easiest way to reach Annapurna Base Camp is to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus (7–8 hours), domestic flight (25–30 minutes), or private vehicle (6–7 hours). From Pokhara, you’ll continue by road to one of the trek’s trailheads, such as Jhinu Danda, Siwai, Kimche, Ghandruk, or the traditional starting point at Nayapul, before hiking for 4–6 days to Annapurna Base Camp, depending on your itinerary.
Most Trekkers Choose One of These Two Routes
Classic ABC Route via Jhinu Danda: Kathmandu → Pokhara → Jhinu Danda → Chhomrong → Sinuwa → Bamboo → Himalaya → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) → Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
| Day | Route | Altitude | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu → Pokhara | 822 m (2,696 ft) | 200 km (124 mi) | 6–8 hrs drive or 25–30 min flight |
| 2 | Pokhara → Jhinu Danda → Chhomrong → Bamboo | 2,310 m (7,578 ft) | 50 km (31 mi) drive + 10 km (6.2 mi) trek | 2.5 hrs drive + 5–6 hrs trek |
| 3 | Bamboo → Himalaya → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) → Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) | 4,130 m (13,550 ft) | 17–18 km (10.5–11.2 mi) | 7–8 hrs |
| 4 | Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo | 2,310 m (7,578 ft) | 19 km (11.8 mi) | 7–8 hrs |
| 5 | Bamboo → Chhomrong → Jhinu Danda | 1,780 m (5,840 ft) | 11 km (6.8 mi) | 5–6 hrs |
| 6 | Jhinu Danda → Pokhara | 822 m (2,696 ft) | 5 km (3.1 mi) trek + 50 km (31 mi) drive | 1.5 hrs trek + 2.5 hrs drive |
| 7 | Pokhara → Kathmandu | 1,400 m (4,593 ft) | 200 km (124 mi) | 6–8 hrs drive or 25–30 min flight |
ABC via Ghorepani Poon Hill: Kathmandu → Pokhara → Nayapul → Birethanti → Ulleri → Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani → Chhomrong → Sinuwa → Bamboo → Himalaya → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) → Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
| Day | Route | Altitude | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu → Pokhara | 822 m (2,696 ft) | 200 km (124 mi) | 6–8 hrs drive or 25–30 min flight |
| 2 | Pokhara → Nayapul → Birethanti → Ulleri | 2,070 m (6,791 ft) | 45 km (28 mi) drive + 10 km (6.2 mi) trek | 1.5 hrs drive + 5–6 hrs trek |
| 3 | Ulleri → Ghorepani | 2,874 m (9,429 ft) | 8 km (5 mi) | 4–5 hrs |
| 4 | Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani | 2,610 m (8,563 ft) | 13 km (8.1 mi) | 6–7 hrs |
| 5 | Tadapani → Chhomrong | 2,170 m (7,119 ft) | 11 km (6.8 mi) | 5–6 hrs |
| 6 | Chhomrong → Sinuwa → Bamboo | 2,310 m (7,578 ft) | 10 km (6.2 mi) | 5–6 hrs |
| 7 | Bamboo → Himalaya → Deurali | 3,200 m (10,498 ft) | 11 km (6.8 mi) | 6–7 hrs |
| 8 | Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) → Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) | 4,130 m (13,550 ft) | 8 km (5 mi) | 4–5 hrs |
| 9 | Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo | 2,310 m (7,578 ft) | 19 km (11.8 mi) | 7–8 hrs |
| 10 | Bamboo → Chhomrong → Jhinu Danda | 1,780 m (5,840 ft) | 11 km (6.8 mi) | 5–6 hrs |
| 11 | Jhinu Danda → Siwai → Pokhara | 822 m (2,696 ft) | 5 km (3.1 mi) trek + 50 km (31 mi) drive | 1.5 hrs trek + 2.5 hrs drive |
| 12 | Pokhara → Kathmandu | 1,400 m (4,593 ft) | 200 km (124 mi) | 6–8 hrs drive or 25–30 min flight |
Note: Option 1 typically takes 7 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. Option 2 usually takes 11–12 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu if you follow the traditional Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani Poon Hill route. However, you can shorten the itinerary by 1–2 days by driving from Pokhara to Nangethanti or Lower Ghorepani, as the road now reaches Ghorepani.Where Does the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Start?
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek begins with a drive from Pokhara to the trekking trailhead. Traditionally, the trek started from Nayapul, located about 45 km (28 miles) from Pokhara, a drive of approximately 1.5–2 hours. However, with improved road access, you can now begin the trek from several different trailheads, depending on your itinerary and how much walking you want to do.
One of the most common misconceptions is that the Annapurna Base Camp Trek always starts from the same village. In reality, the starting point depends on your itinerary, current road conditions, and your preferred trekking duration. Today, most trekkers begin from one of the following four trailheads:
- Nayapul: Traditional Annapurna trekking trailhead, longer trekking route, and ideal for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill.
- Jhinu Danda: Most popular modern starting point, shorter trekking itinerary, and access to natural hot springs.
- Siwai: Popular road-access trailhead, short hike to Chhomrong, and ideal for shorter Annapurna Base Camp itineraries.
- Ghandruk: Traditional Gurung village with excellent mountain views, ideal for cultural experiences and scenic trekking.
Which Starting Point is Best?
From our experience guiding trekkers on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Jhinu Danda offers the best balance of scenery, trekking duration, and convenience. It allows you to avoid unnecessary road walking while still experiencing the most rewarding sections of the classic Annapurna Base Camp trail.
However, if cultural immersion is your priority, we highly recommend starting from Ghandruk. One of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal, it offers authentic local culture and spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. If you have a few extra days, the classic Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani Poon Hill route is our top recommendation. It takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests, the famous Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of more than 8 mountains, including Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli, before joining the main Annapurna Base Camp trail.
Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Regardless of where your trek begins, your first destination is Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp. Situated approximately 200 km (124 miles) west of Kathmandu, Pokhara is Nepal’s adventure capital and the main hub for trekkers heading into the Annapurna Conservation Area.
There are three primary ways to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Option 1: Tourist Bus (Best Value)
The tourist bus is the most popular way to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, offering the best balance of comfort, convenience, and affordability. Most tourist buses depart from Sorhakhutte in Kathmandu at around 7:00 AM, while night buses typically leave from Naya Bus Park (Gongabu) at around 7:30 PM. The journey follows the scenic Prithvi Highway, passing rivers, terraced hillsides, and traditional towns before reaching Pokhara. For most trekkers heading to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the tourist bus is the best-value transportation option, combining reasonable fares with comfortable travel.
| Travel Time | 7–8 hours | ||
| Distance | 200 km (124 miles) | ||
| Departure Time | 7:00 AM | ||
| Arrival Time | 2:00–3:00 PM (depending on traffic and road conditions) | ||
| Kathmandu Bus Stop | Sorhakhutte (Nayabazar) | ||
| Pokhara Bus Stop | Tourist Bus Park (near Rastra Bank Chowk), Pokhara | ||
| Price | USD 10 (NPR 1,500) | ||
| Stop | 2 meal stops (breakfast & lunch) + 2 toilet break | ||
| Bus Operators | MnS Adventure, Global Vacation, Reliable International, Baba Adventure, New Road Travels, Baniya Travel | ||
| Facilities | Wi-Fi, charging ports, air conditioning (A/C), and complimentary drinking water | ||
| Best For | Budget travelers, backpackers, and those who enjoy scenic road journeys. |
Option 2: Domestic Flight (Fastest & Expensive)
If you’re short on time, flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara is the fastest way to begin your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The flight takes just 25–30 minutes, making it ideal for travelers with limited time, although it is more expensive than the tourist bus.
Highlights of Taking a Flight
- It takes just 30 minutes to get to Pokhara, compared to the tourist bus, which takes up to 8 hours.
- One of the best scenic flights, offering a close-up view of Mount Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Dhaulagiri, and many more.
- Time-saving options: if you wish, you can start the hike on the same day you depart from Kathmandu. Unlike if you take the tourist bus, you don’t need to stop in Pokhara for a day. You likely spend 7-8 hours on the road.
- Reaching Pokhara early also means an opportunity to enjoy the Pokhara tour. Or if you want to do some practice hiking. There is plenty of short hiking around Pokhara.
There really isn’t a downside to taking a flight, except the cost. But if you don’t mind long travel times, a tourist bus is much cheaper. And they said the overland route between Kathmandu and Pokhara is one of the scenic drives too.
| Flight Time | 25–30 minutes |
| Distance | 146 km (91 miles) |
| Departure Airport | Tribhuvan International Airport (Domestic Terminal), Kathmandu |
| Arrival Airport | Pokhara International Airport |
| Flight Frequency | Multiple daily flights (weather permitting) |
| Check-in Time | At least 1 hour before departure |
| Price | USD 127 (foreign nationals) |
| Baggage Allowance | 25 kg checked baggage + 5 kg hand carry (varies by airline) |
| Airlines | Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Shree Airlines |
| First Flight | Around 7:00 AM (depends on the weather and airlines) |
| Last Flight | Around 7:00 PM (depends on the weather and airlines) |
Note: It is recommended to sit on the right side of the seat when using a bus/plane, so you can enjoy the riverside view and the surrounding green hills and snow-capped mountains while driving or flying.Option 3: Private Car or Jeep (Most Comfortable)
Hiring a private vehicle provides the greatest flexibility. You can leave at your preferred time, stop whenever you like for photos or meals, and travel directly to your hotel in Pokhara without waiting for scheduled departures.
This option is especially popular with families, private groups, and photographers carrying extra equipment.
| Travel Time | 6–7 hours |
| Distance | 200 km (124 miles) |
| Car Price | USD 100 (NPR 15,000) |
| Jeep Price | USD 150 (NPR 22,500) |
| Best For | Families, groups, and photographers |
Although it's the most expensive road option, many trekkers appreciate the convenience and flexibility it offers.Which Transportation Option Do We Recommend?
From our experience, we recommend taking a tourist bus to Pokhara if you have enough time. It’s the most affordable and reliable option, and spending a night in Pokhara gives you time to relax by Phewa Lake, organize your trekking gear, and prepare for the journey ahead.
If you’re short on time, a domestic flight is the best choice. It saves almost an entire day of travel, allowing you to reach the trailhead and begin your Annapurna Base Camp Trek sooner.
Next, we’ll explain how to get from Pokhara to the Annapurna Base Camp trailheads, compare transportation costs, and help you choose the best route based on your itinerary, budget, and trekking style.
Travel from Pokhara to the Trek Starting Point
After arriving in Pokhara, the next step is getting to your Annapurna Base Camp trekking trailhead. Thanks to improved mountain roads, vehicles now reach much farther into the Annapurna region than they did a decade ago. Today, most trekkers start their hike from Jhinu Danda, Siwai, Ghandruk, or Nayapul, depending on their itinerary and preferred trekking duration.
The drive from Pokhara to the trailhead is a scenic journey through terraced farmland, traditional Gurung villages, and the beautiful Modi Khola Valley before entering the Annapurna Conservation Area. Choosing the right starting point can help you save time, reduce road walking, or enjoy a longer and more scenic trekking experience.
Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp Trailheads
| Trailhead | Distance | Drive Time | Road Condition | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jhinu Danda | 62 km (39 mi) | 3–4 hrs | Mostly paved, then rough mountain road | Standard 5–7 day ABC Trek, hot springs |
| Siwai | 58 km (36 mi) | 3 hrs | Similar to Jhinu Danda | Shorter first trekking day |
| Ghandruk | 55 km (34 mi) | 2.5–3 hrs | Mostly paved with mountain road | Cultural and scenic itineraries |
| Nayapul | 42 km (26 mi) | 1.5–2 hrs | Fully paved | ABC via Ghorepani Poon Hill |
Transportation Options from Pokhara
| Transport | Best For | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Jeep | Budget & solo trekkers | Affordable, frequent departures, direct to trailheads | Departs when full, limited luggage space |
| Private Jeep | Families & groups | Flexible departure, comfortable, photo stops, more luggage | Higher cost |
| Local Bus | Budget travelers | Cheapest option, local experience | Slower, crowded, multiple stops |
Annapurna Base Camp Route Map From Pokhara
Local Expert Tips and Common Transportation Mistakes
After organizing Annapurna Base Camp treks for many years, we’ve found that transportation planning can significantly affect your overall experience. Here are a few recommendations we regularly share with our guests.
- Start early: Leave Kathmandu early to avoid traffic and reach Pokhara with plenty of time to relax before your trek.
- Fly if you are short on time: Save almost a full day by flying between Kathmandu and Pokhara, especially in spring and autumn.
- Allow extra time during monsoon: Keep 1–2 flexible days in your itinerary in case of landslides, road closures, or weather delays.
- Carry a small day bag: Keep your passport, permits, valuables, medicines, rain jacket, water bottle, and camera with you.
- Book transportation in advance: Reserve buses, flights, or jeeps early during peak trekking seasons to secure your preferred departure.
- Don’t underestimate travel time: Although Kathmandu and Pokhara are only about 200 km (124 mi) apart, the journey usually takes 7–9 hours by road.
- Avoid tight flight connections: Spend a night in Kathmandu before your international flight to allow for unexpected travel delays.
- Choose the right trailhead: Jhinu Danda, Siwai, Ghandruk, or Nayapul, depending on your itinerary, available time, and trekking preferences.
- Check seasonal road conditions: Road access can change after heavy rain or maintenance, so confirm the best trailhead with your trekking agency before departure.
FAQs About Getting to Annapurna Base Camp
The fastest option is to take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (25-30 minutes), drive to Jhinu Danda or Siwai (3-4 hours), and then begin trekking. Flying saves around a full day compared to traveling by road.
No. You can drive to villages such as Jhinu Danda, Siwai, and Ghandruk, but the final section to Annapurna Base Camp is only accessible on foot.
No. A guide is not mandatory for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Independent trekking is currently permitted, so you can reach Annapurna Base Camp without a guide if you’re confident in your navigation and mountain trekking. However, hiring a licensed local guide can enhance your experience by providing route guidance, local knowledge, cultural insights, and assistance in case of emergencies, especially if it’s your first trek in Nepal.
Most itineraries take between 7 and 11 days, including transportation to and from Kathmandu. The exact duration depends on your route, pace, and whether you travel by road or air.
If you have limited vacation time, flying is usually the best option. It significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to spend more time trekking in the mountains.
For most trekkers, Jhinu Danda offers the best balance of accessibility, scenery, and trekking duration. Ghandruk is an excellent alternative if you’d like to experience a traditional Gurung village and don’t mind an extra day of walking.
Yes. Annapurna Base Camp is considered suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. Proper preparation, gradual altitude gain, and a sensible itinerary greatly improve the trekking experience.
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November), when the weather is generally stable, mountain views are clear, and trekking conditions are at their best.
Yes. Helicopter charters and return flights from Annapurna Base Camp can be arranged, subject to weather conditions and availability. The private helicopter costs around USD 2,200, and sharing costs USD 600. These are popular with travelers who have limited time or want a scenic return journey.
One-way flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara typically costs USD 127 for most international travelers when booked directly with the airline. Discounted promotional fares may occasionally be available through trekking agencies or tour operators. Nepalese citizens and some resident categories are eligible for lower domestic fares. Flight prices vary depending on the season, availability, and airline.
Tourist bus fares generally range from USD 10 to USD 20 per person, depending on the level of comfort and services provided. Standard, deluxe, and luxury buses operate daily between Kathmandu and Pokhara, with most departures in the morning.
Kathmandu and Pokhara are connected by multiple daily flights, with the exact number depending on the season, weather, and airline schedules. During the busy spring and autumn trekking seasons, several departures are usually available throughout the day.
Most tourist buses to Pokhara depart from Sorhakhutte, which is about a 10 to 15-minute walk northwest of Thamel. Some premium bus operators may use different departure points, so it’s best to confirm the location when booking your ticket.
Conclusion
Getting from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp is easier than many first-time visitors expect. Whether you choose a scenic tourist bus, a quick domestic flight, or a private vehicle, the journey unfolds naturally in stages- from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the lakeside city of Pokhara, and then into the traditional villages, forests, and mountain landscapes of the Annapurna region.
For most trekkers, we recommend traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus or domestic flight, then driving to Jhinu Danda and taking a well-paced trek to Annapurna Base Camp. This route offers the best balance of convenience, scenery, and value.
If you’d rather avoid the hassle of arranging transportation, permits, guides, accommodation, and other logistics separately, NEST Adventure can organize every aspect of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Feel free to contact us at nestadventure@gmail.com for personalized advice or to start planning your adventure.
