This medium-length trek is suitable for most people, including older children, and is a practically year-round route. Although the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not too strenuous, a reasonable level of general fitness is required to walk an average of 5-7 hours per day. Although this is a relatively year-round trek, the best times to visit are spring and autumn. For those who want to go in the winter or monsoon months, it will prove a little more challenging, but the rewards are fewer other trekkers on the trails. Several routes lead to the Annapurna Base Camp. Especially the one via Poon Hill is the most visited and scenic route of all.
But regardless of when you come, the Annapurna Sanctuary trek has it all! The views, culture, and comfortable accommodations along the trail. What’s more, immediately, you are in the heart of the Himalayas! The mountain vistas are awe-inspiring, with the backdrop of Machhapuchhre (commonly known as Fish Tail), Mount Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, and more!
We will be passing through exciting villages and terraced fields, where there is the opportunity to see how people live in this region. The trail passed through rhododendron forests, along glacier rivers, with sheer cliffs carved out of the mountainside. Annapurna Base Camp lies at 4,130m, and on the way, we will also visit Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m), from where we get a close look at the west face of the mountain. By now, we are in the Annapurna Sanctuary, and on reaching Annapurna Base Camp, we have a 360-degree, uninterrupted view of those spectacular mountains!
Trip Highlights
Learn about the culture of the Gurung people
Pass through rhododendron forests, the national flower of Nepal
Enjoy the changing scenery from cultivated fields and forests to landscapes with little vegetation
Wonder at the spectacular 360-degree mountain views
Enjoy the hot springs at Jhinu
Reaching the Base of the Annapurna mountain
Rural Nepali Lifestyle
View of Fishtail Peak
Many rivers and suspension bridges.
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m) by Tourist Bus.
We will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu and drive to Pokhara. You will be dropped at your hotel in Pokhara as well. After taking some rest, we will explore the lakeside at night and spend the night in Pokhara's lakeside area.
8 hour
Breakfast
Hotel
Hotel Lake Star or Similar Category
Day 2
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070m) & trek to Ulleri (1,960m).
Depending upon group size, either a car, a jeep, or a coaster will be arranged for the short drive to Naya Pool. It is approximately 55 km from Pokhara, the starting point of the Poon Hill Trek. After obtaining all necessary permits, we will trek up to Hile, from where we will continue climbing and reach Tikhedunga, our lunch destination. From there, we will walk to Ulleri. The last hour of the trek up to Ulleri is a bit difficult as we have to trek completely uphill. Ulleri is a small village occupied mainly by tea houses and lodges. There is no difficulty in picking a room because we cannot see the view from any scenario.
5 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 3
Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860m).
Walking up from Ulleri may be extremely challenging, although the trail is paved with ladders before arriving at the gentle, flat section. You need to walk a lot, which may be tiring. The route appears a bit occupied as you have to walk on one of the busiest and well-known trekking trails in Nepal. The Poon Hill Trek can be completed throughout the year, regardless of the climate. There is no such enormous impact of winter even though the Poon Hill will be covered by snow. When we reach Ghorepani, we will climb a little to arrive at Upper Ghorepani, which is progressively more picturesque than Lower Ghorepani.
On this day, we will mostly walk through the forests and villages. It takes 4 to 5 hours to reach Ghorepani from Ulleri. The people living here have a mixed ethnic background. Crossing through small waterfalls, following the suspension bridges we will reach Ghorepani.
5 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 4
Early in the morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) then trek to Tadapani (2,630m).
Ghorepani is a large town with numerous hotels and facilities available. The occupation of people here is mostly related to the Tourism sector. Early morning (4 am or 4:30 am) we will begin walking up to the top of Poon Hill (3,210 m) for about 1 hour. We will view one of the delightful sunrises over the Dhaulagiri Himalayan Range alongside a few other auxiliary pinnacles/peaks from there. It is steep, and a kind of uphill trail; however, it will become increasingly incredible. The view from the tower over Poon Hill offers an extraordinary perspective. The view from Ghorepani and Poon Hill looks nearly the same, and the ranges are comparable. The picture can be changed slightly with a short walk to Poon Hill. Fishtail, Himchuli, Gangapurna, Annapurna South, 12 peaks, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri are some of the mountains visible from Poon Hill.
Moreover, the people in this place seem to be more hospitable and kind. After the Poon Hill trek, we will return to Ghorepani and trek up to Tadapani, which is a 4- to 5-hour walk through the Banthanti village, our lunch stop. From Tadapani to Banthanti, the trail is a mix of ups and downs. Passing through the forests of rhododendron and crossing a suspension bridge, we will reach Tadapani.
6 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 5
Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m).
Today, we will trek for 4 to 5 hours from Tadapani to Chhomrong. We will take an easy route down to Kimrong Khola for Lunch and rise to Chhomrong village. Chhomrong village lies at the base of Himchuli, at an elevation of 6,434m, which provides a closer view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. The place is neat and clean. Along with the Annapurna range and the fishtail mountain, we can view Himchuli, Gangapurna, and so forth. The area is multicultural, and people are kind-hearted.
5 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 6
Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310m).
Today, we will head towards Bamboo from Chhomrong. To reach Chhomrong, we must pass through Sinwa, which is divided into two parts: Lower Sinwa and Upper Sinwa. To reach Lower Sinwa, we will descend downhill for 1 hour from Chhomrong. Soon, we will cross a small suspension bridge and begin climbing for 1.5 hours to Upper Sinwa through the forest. From there, the local area on the Annapurna Trek Route is over, as from that point, only some of the lodges and hotels remain active with reasonable business. Upper Sinuwa has just three hotels. Ahead of Sinuwa, the trail is delicate, with a gradual, flat way until Bamboo. The name of the place is Bamboo because there are lots of Bamboo trees. On the trail, we may encounter a common white-faced monkey.
5 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 7
Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3,200m).
Next up is a trek to Deurali from Bamboo. As it is a high zone, we need to drop down quickly. The height around Deurali is approximately 3,200 meters above sea level. When we continue trekking, the scene begins to change into the high snow-capped eco framework. Passing through Dovan and Himalaya, where just two hotels are found, we will climb up to Deurali via the big Hinku Cave. Small micro-hydro power is in operation near Deurali, where only six lodges are situated. The trek to Deurali via Dovan and Himalaya is mostly uphill. We will walk through a dense forest with the only view of Fishtail Mountain in some parts of the way.
4 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 8
Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via MBC (3,700m).
Today, from Deurali, we will begin to climb towards Annapurna Base Camp. As you may feel less oxygen because of the high snow-capped zone with no trees and shrubs, one needs to walk delicately. Gradually, taking in all the beautiful scenery and enjoying every single minute, we will trek up to Fishtail Base Camp. We will stop there for lunch. Throughout the break, we can climb a little way up towards the edge and icy mass at the close of Fishtail and take a close look at the west side of Mt. Fishtail. The last destination of our trek currently appears more real and intimate than it did previously, as we get closer and closer. Walking for a few hours slowly and continuously, as the dusk/sunset from the hotels near Annapurna looks like a gold painting over the Fishtail ranges.
5 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 9
Trek back from ABC to Dovan (2,600m).
Today we will head for Dovan from Annapurna Base Camp. As we walk downwards, there is no more risk of high-altitude sickness. We will cover nearly two days of camping on the way down. Directly after the dawn/sunrise over Annapurna South and Annapurna I, we will have the most delicious breakfast before walking down from Annapurna Sanctuary. Right down we will effortlessly make up to Dovan.
6 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 10
Trek from Dovan to Jhinu Danda (1,780m).
On this day, we will begin our walk, moving towards Jhinu Danda, one of the most beautiful and natural hot springs. The path from Dovan to Jhinu Danda is somewhat downhill until lower Sinuwa. After having lunch at Lower Sinuwa, we will cross the suspension bridge and walk uphill to Chhomrong. At that point, the way is straight down to Jhinu Danda. Upon arriving at Jhinu Danda, we will spend the day taking advantage of the natural hot spring water and exploring the surroundings. We will spend the night there.
7 hour
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Tea House
Day 11
Drive from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara (822m).
Although a few people trek up to Nayapul, we won't do the same since we are extra. Not just that, being extra is tied to walking on the dusty street where most people are using jeeps. We also use the vehicle and our spare time to eliminate dust and other factors. It would be a 3-hour drive from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara.
3 hour
Breakfast + Lunch
Hotel
Hotel Lake Star or Similar Category
Day 12
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m) by Tourist Bus.
Today is our farewell day, when we will bid farewell to this beautiful place and drive back to Kathmandu.
8 hour
Breakfast
Hotel
The Cost Includes
International airport pickup and drop-off services.
2 nights hotel in Pokhara with breakfast (Hotel Lake Star or Similar).
An English-speaking professional trekking guide for 10 days (including his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).
Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Sofa Tourist Bus.
Pokhara-Nayapul by private car or taxi.
Jhinu Danda-Pokhara by sharing jeep or local bus.
Hotel-Bus Station-Hotel transport by private car or taxi.
Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
09 nights accommodation in mountain tea house lodge (twin-sharing basis).
Seasonal fruits after the dinner during the trek.
NEST branded water bottles with purification tablets.
NEST branded duffle bags for the trek.
NEST branded sleeping bags (-20/-25 degrees) during the trek (if required).
A pulse oximeter to provide a daily report (SpO2 and bpm).
NEST branded Annapurna Base Camp Trek maps.
NEST branded warm hats.
Trekking poles (if required).
All government tax and service fees.
First aid kit box.
The Cost Excludes
Nepal Visa Fees (15 Days- USD 30, 30 Days- USD 50, and 90 Days- USD 125).
Travel Insurance (must include coverage for medical expenses and emergency evacuation).
Food and accommodation in Kathmandu.
Food in Pokhara (except breakfast).
Any kind of drinks or bar items during the trek.
Personal expenses (phone calls, bar bills, battery charge, boiled water, laundry, hot shower, snacks, and Wi-Fi in the mountain).
Additional costs due to changes in the itinerary.
Porter for the trek (A porter for 10 days costs USD 260).
Private transportation from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
Tips for guide and porters (Expected).
Any additional services not listed in the included section.
More Information About ABC Trek
Food and Accommodation
You will eat in the place where you stay in the mountains. Most of the food menus are available in the tea house and lodge of the Annapurna region. Additionally, you can enjoy both vegetarian and non-vegetarian items while on trek ABC. The non-vegetarian menu may offer chicken, pork, and even a Yak steak. As you need protein while hiking, it's essential to consult with your guide to ensure they are hygienic.
Lunch and Dinner
"Dal Bhat Pawer, 24 Hour." It is a famous saying in Nepal. A variety of rice menus, including the Dal Bhat set, Veg Fried Rice, Mixed Fried Rice, Pasta, Macaroni, Spaghetti, Spring Rolls, Sandwiches, and Momo, are available in excellent quantities for lunch and dinner.
Breakfast
Chapati, Pancakes, Tibetan bread, Porridge, various soups, and eggs made into omelets are well-known breakfast options.
Best Time
Weather conditions are crucial when planning a trek in Nepal. February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December are considered the best times for the ABC Trek.
Difficulty
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is rated as a moderate Trek. Various factors, including the number of hours of hiking, distance, and altitude gain, among others, determine difficulty ratings. However, the primary concern is altitude sickness and the process of acclimatization. As it is a moderate trek, the chance of being sick in Annapurna is less compared to Everest Base Camp. The hike starts at 1960m in Ulleri and gradually increases to 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp over 12 days.
Itinerary
When designing an itinerary, always allow for extra days for acclimatization. Based on research, you should hike not more than 6-7 hours of hiking and 400-500m of altitude gain each day below 3,000m. It should be a buffer day in 3,000m and below 5,000m. And no more than 4,00m between 3,000 - 5,000m. If you keep this ratio even for the first time, high-altitude hikers will survive with no symptoms of sickness.
Drinking Water
You might see a local guide drinking tap water, but is it safe for tourists to do so? It all depends on your immune system. Locals are used to drinking tap water, but that doesn't mean you have to. "Prevention is better than a cure." I wouldn't suggest drinking tap water; instead, you can purify and drink it. Several water purification tablets are available on the market. Bottled water is also available for purchase. However, they are not environmentally friendly after use, as proper recycling facilities are not readily available in the mountains.
Permit
You are required to have two different permits to complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. You need a TIMS card, which costs USD 20 per person for group trekkers and USD 30 for independent trekkers. With Tims, you need an ACAP permit, which costs USD 30.
Transportation to the Trailhead
For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, first, you need to drive to Pokhara (4 hours) and Nayapul (2 hours) from Kathmandu in a local bus or private jeep. You can also take a 1-hour and 15-minute flight to Pokhara. At the end of your journey, the trek finishes at the Annapurna Base Camp. To return to Kathmandu, you must drive back from Pokhara to Motkyu and then take a local jeep, a private jeep, or a flight.
Communication and Wifi Facilities
There is wifi available in the Annapurna region. If you want to have your own cell phone data carriers, "Ncell" has better internet speed and coverage.
Packing List/Hiking Gear For Annapurna Base Camp Trek
1 (10 to -15 Degree Celsius) Lightweight & Windproof
19
Thermal Inners (Upper & Lower)
1 Pair – For Warmth During Night & Cold Climates
20
Trek Pants
2 – Synthetic
21
Windproof Jacket & Pants
1 Pair – Lightweight, Water Resistant & Windproof
22
Poncho
1 – For Rain Protection
23
Sleeping Bag
Lightweight, High Quality Goose Down (-10 to -20 Degree Celsius)
Foot Wear
24
Trekking Shoes
1 Pair – Waterproof, Ankle Support & Good Grip
25
Socks (Cotton & Woolen)
5/3 Pairs – Wool For Cold & Cotton For Light Use
26
Slippers or Flip-Flops
1 Pair – Lightweight, Optional Camp Footwear
27
Crampons
Consult With NEST Adventure
Personal Utilities
28
Sunscreen Cream
SPF 30 or Above
29
Toilet Paper & Wipes
Biodegradable Preferred
30
Moisturizer
For Dry Skin
31
Lip Balm
With SPF
32
Hand Sanitizer
Alcohol Based
33
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Travel Size
34
Towel
Quick Dry Microfiber Preferred
Medications
35
First Aid Kits
Basic First Aid Kits (Consult With A Doctor)
36
Altitude Sickness Medicine
Diamox or Similar (Consult With A Doctor)
37
Pain Relief Medicine
Paracetamol or Ibuprofen
38
Antibacterial Powder
For Bacterial Use
Important Gears
First Aid Kit
Oximeter
Water Bottles
Sleeping Bag
Down Jacket
Base Layer Tops and Bottoms
Day Pack
Duffel Bag
Fleece Pants
Fleece/Wool Gloves
Fleece/Wool Hat
Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
Hiking Boots
Hiking Pants
Hiking Socks
Insulated Jacket
Long Sleeve Shirts
Rain Jacket
Rain Pants
Sport Sunglasses
Sun Block and Lip Balm
Sun Hat
Regularly using Medicines
Other Gears
Camera
Batteries
Charger
Portable solar charger or backup charger
Water purifier
Reading and writing materials, if you have Book Craze
Headphones
Travel Games
Travel Documents
Airline Tickets
Copy of Passport (2 Copies)
Nepal Visa
Travel insurance
Passport Photos (4)
Valid Passport
Required permits
Altitude Sickness and Its Prevention
Altitude sickness is the effect of high elevation on the health of people, which is caused by the low amount of oxygen in high altitudes. It mainly occurs above 2500 meters.
Causes
Dehydration
Increase in elevation
Low level of oxygen
Use of alcohol
Symptoms are temporary, but in some cases, they can be severe and even dangerous, so it is essential to prevent them.
Symptoms
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Headache
Dizziness
Swelling of hands, feet, and face
Nose bleeding
Shortness of breath
Rapid pulse
Dry cough
Fever
Preventions
Altitude acclimatization
Pre-acclimatization
Medication
Oxygen enrichment
Keep yourself hydrated
Do not use alcoholic substances
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp?
The best time to trek in the Annapurna region is March to May and September to October.
What kind of accommodation facility in Annapurna Base Camp?
On the way to Annapurna Base Camp, accommodations are typically in tea houses and lodges. Similarly, you can also find luxurious hotels if you can afford them.
What are the permit requirements for Annapurna Base Camp?
We require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) to enter the Annapurna region. The cost of the permit is Rs 3,000 for foreigners and Rs 1000 for SAARC countries, inclusive of VAT.
Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficult?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be categorized from an easy to an arduous trek. It depends on the trek route you choose.
How are the trails of Annapurna region?
The trails are mixed. You have to go straight up as well as descend through the steep and rocky trail.
Can I trek Solo to Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, you can trek solo in the Annapurna region because it offers many easy and moderate treks that can be completed with a normal level of fitness. Also, the trek is easily accessible from Pokhara. Accommodation facilities are easily accessible in this region.
What kinds of equipment are needed to trek ABC Trek?
Basic hiking gear is enough for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. You can read the equipment checklist on our website https://www.nestadventure.com
What kind of facilities is available in Annapurna Base Camp?
Every kind of facility, including water, electricity, Wi-Fi, charging, and hot showers, is available in Annapurna. You need to pay an additional amount to enjoy these facilities.
How many days does it take to complete Annapurna region?
The trek to the Annapurna region typically takes 7 to 16 days to complete, depending on the specific trek you are undertaking.
What kind of food will be served during the trek?
Normal to high-quality food is served according to the will of trekkers in the Annapurna region.
