Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Overview

Annapurna base camp trek is the most iconic trekking route with magnifying views of mount Annapurna and its neighbouring peaks. Diverse vegetation, rich in culture and unique landscapes, marks this trek as the most popular in Nepal. Wandering about 115 kilometers on this circuit takes 7-12 days to conclude depending on the pace of trekkers. 

The adventure begins after arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, touring around the ancient historical city of Nepal. Trekkers embark on a mesmerizing scenic flight or drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara lapped at the bottom of Annapurna range, also the gateway to Annapurna base camp trek. Short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, where the actual hike starts. Passing through the remoteness, traced farms and wilderness of dense forest along with proper local interaction and experience. 

Wandering on a trial of the world top 10 mountain range always keeps you high on. The creation of nature has lapped at its altitude of 4130 meters (about half the cruising altitude of a commercial jet), for viewing panorama of mt Annapurna and other surrounding peaks machhapuchhre(fishtail), gangapurna, himchuli etc. 

Exploring the madness of nature and the remoteness of the surroundings takes you to a whole new planet with a variety of vegetation on a walk of a few kilometers. One cannot skip one’s eye on the magnificent views of the Himalayas and the greenery of the hills. Widespread flora and fauna like rhododendron, bamboo forest and alpine tress are inhabited in this region. Capturing the beauty of wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan thar and different kinds of birds during the trail.  

Experiencing the typical remoteness of the country, local people and the way of their living makes you amazed how hard and beautiful it is at the same time. Versatility in the culture and traditions of the people reflects Nepal as a culturally diverse country in the world. Communities of Magar, Gurung, Ghale and Bohtes in the high region are habited in the Annapurna circuit. 

Besides, Annapurna base camp trek has become the world's most popular destination for hikers and travelers to venture into the wilderness of nature. When a rising and setting sun hits the mountains ranges it seems out of this world. You may fall in love with the amazing creation of nature and may not overcome it. 

Highlights
  • Panoramic view of the Annapurna Mountain range and its surrounding peaks like Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Himchuli etc. 
  • Passing through the diverse landscape, lush forest covered with rhododendron and bamboo to high altitude alpine meadows. 
  • Experiencing the local cuisine and culture of Gurung and Magar communities 
  • Removing exhaustion soaking in hot water spring at jhinu dada 
  • Encountering a variety of flora and fauna during the trek 
  • Capturing moments at Annapurna base camp with spectacular views of the mountains. 

Itinerary

The package tour starts after arrivals on Tribhuvan international airport picking up on our own vehicles. Accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu. When you have time, you can do the short tour of the Thamel area and go shopping for the essentials equipment's required for the trek. Overnight at a hotel. 

  • Accommodation:hotel

Starting early in the morning our journey starts from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a tourist bus which provides luxury and is comfy as compared to local vehicles. After about 7-9 hours of driving, we stayed overnight in Pokhara valley on lakeside.  

    Travelling from Pokhara to jhinu we can reserve the auto or use local transport because its only 28 km (about 17.4 mi) from Pokhara valley. Meanwhile, you can visit the hot spring within 30 min of walking distance. The trail passes through the Nepalese villages and farm terrace along the stone trail. After 45 min of hike, you will enter the most charming village chommrong. 

     Enjoying the beautiful mountain ranges Machhapuchre, Gangapurna and Himchuli from there. In chhomrong we rest for our lunch because it is the best place to have lunch with the Glorious Mountain views. The trail descends a stone pathway to the chhomrong khola and keeps climbing to small village named Sinuwa . Our destination for today's trail is in sinuwa. Overnight in sinuwa village. 

      Great breakfast for a great start to the day. The trail leads us in the wilderness of dense forest further on. The route goes deeply down to a rock bank along with thick bamboo at the bottom of the gorge to bamboo (2345m). Ascending the trail along the Modi khola and forest to the Dovan (2500m). Forwarding our steps continuously through serene bamboo and rhododendron mixed forests near the Himalayan hotel (2920m). The area called Hinko cave, was used for a potter's shelter in previous times. On the ridge above Hinko is the stretch of trail that is subject to avalanches. So, to minimize the risk after deurali we planned to cross the avalanches the next morning. 

        Next morning after finishing with our breakfast we start our day 3 straight to Annapurna base camp. The trail leads into the heart of the sanctuary at Annapurna base camp for your overnight stay. The trail goes uphill for a few hours passing some roofless shepherds huts along the side of a moraine, this area often receives strong wind and snowy bounded which are petty dangerous due to the avalanches and heavy snowfall during spring. So, trekkers are recommended to cross this place in the morning before getting hotter.  

        Annapurna Mountain is the most attractive part of the trip. Furthermore, you will enjoy the view of mountains including Annapurna I (8091m), Himchuli (6441) m, Tent peak (5695m), Singa Chulli (6501m), Gangapurna (7544m), and Machhapuchhre (6643m). The rest of the day you have time to explore around the base camp and relax at the base camp as per your interest. The view of mount Annapurna during sunrise and sunsets fit perfect to post on social media. 

          This morning will be your best morning for the trek because the sunrise on the top of the mountain makes everyone day great. You can capture the views of the mountain and share the moments with your close one. After having breakfast and enjoying the scenery, the trail goes deeply down to bamboo via machhapuchhre, deurali, Himalaya Dobhan, and bamboo gathering the boundless moments. Today we glimpse the sunrise and the last evening sunset over Mt. Annapurna I. This area is known as Annapurna sanctuary. After spending time here, we retraced the journey back to bamboo for an overnight stay. 

            Today we headed our journey to jhinu. The trail follows the same route, once we have passed khuldighar there you visit sheep farm, it continuous through rhododendron and bamboo forests with majestic mountains scenery, especially mt. Machhapuchhre. The trail descends very steeply to the jhinu hot springs, where you can relax your body. After having dinner, we stayed here overnight. 

            Again, Following the same route until pitam deurali. Walking continuously for 4-5 hours with the scenic view of Dhaulagiri Mountain we reach small ridge top teahouses with basic accommodation pitam deurali. We overnight stay here. 

              Again, Following the same route until pitam deurali. Walking continuously for 4-5 hours with the scenic view of Dhaulagiri Mountain we reach small ridge top teahouses with basic accommodation pitam deurali. We overnight stay here. 

                After the hot breakfast at the tea houses todays trek conclude with in 5-6 hours walk to phedi. Walking downhills to the Australian base camp form where we can see the view of Annapurna Mountain range. After reaching to phedi we directly drive back to Pokhara valley on jeep and overnight stay in Pokhara. 

                  After ending our trek on Annapurna base camp, we traveled back to Kathmandu on our day 10. After a long drive on the bus, we spent the rest of the day in Kathmandu collecting all the memories during the trek. 

                    This is the last day in Nepal. We will drive you in our own vehicle back to Tribhuvan international airport for the goodbye and farewell. Thanks for joining us on this trek. 

                      Cost Details

                      Includes

                      All Ground Transportation by Private Vehicle 

                      Airport to Airport Transfer in Private Vehicle 

                      3 Night accommodation in Kathmandu on BB Basis in 3-Star category Hotel 

                      Guided Kathmandu Heritage sites  

                      Three meals (breakfast, lunch, and Dinner) during the trek 

                      The best available accommodation is in Tea House Lodge on a twin-sharing basis during the trek. 

                      Highly Experienced and Certified Guide and Porter (1 porter for every two trekkers) 

                      Trekking Guide, Porter Salary, Food, Accommodation, and Insurance 

                      Flight Ticket (Kathmandu – Pokhara– Kathmandu) 

                      All entrance fees and taxes, including Airport Tax 

                      Annapurna conservation area permit  

                      TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) 

                      All Government Taxes and Services Charges 

                      Sleeping Bag 

                      First Aid Medical Kit 

                      Excludes

                      Meals (Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu) are not listed on the itinerary. 

                      Travel Insurance 

                      International Flight Tickets 

                      Nepal Entry Visa fee (Nepal entry Visa can be taken upon your arrival in Tribhuwan International Airport, Single entry Visa fee cost USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days), For Arrival Visa you are requested two Passport size photograph 

                      Soft Drinks including water and other beverages not listed in the itinerary 

                      Snacks and tea/coffee 

                      Personal expenses like bar bills, laundry, and others 

                      Personal Trekking Gears 

                      Internet and Phone calls 

                      Tips for Staffs 

                      Useful Information

                      Best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

                      Trekking at Annapurna base camp depends on various factors like weather, climate visibility and conditions of the trails. Every season offers a unique experience, so choosing the right time for your trek is crucial.  

                       

                      Spring (March to May): 

                      Whether during the month of march to May in Nepal remains mild and pleasant, which is the best season for doing Annapurna base camp trek, clear visibility with blossom rhododendrons all around the trek. 

                      Clear visibility, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks Annapurna i, Machhapucchre and Himchuli and the wilderness. The temperature during the day is moderate and chilly at night. 

                       

                      Autumn (September to November): 

                      Another popular time to hike Annapurna base camp with cooler temperature compared to spring, also provides a clear crystal sky. The trails remain less crowded, offering great views of the mountain's ranges. Temperatures are moderate during the day but a bit colder at night. 

                       

                      Winter (December to February): 

                      Winter brings cold and snowfall to the Himalayan region of Nepal, but trekking to the ABC is still possible for experienced trekkers. Decrease the crowd in trails, perfect blend of experiencing nature in a peaceful manner. Despite the challenges, trekking in winter offers different views of mountains with lights. 

                       

                      Summer (June to august): 

                      Monsoon starts with heavy rainfall in most part of Nepal including Annapurna base camp, some part of Annapurna circuit receive maximum rainfall among the country.  Trekking to ABC is not recommended due to the risk of landslide muddy and wet trails encounter with liches mosquitoes etc. Means of accommodation are also limited during the monsoon. 

                      In essence, the best time to trek Annapurna base camp is during the spring and autumn seasons.  which offers the best weather, climatic conditions and best views of the mountains and nature. 

                       

                      Accommodation  

                      Annapurna base camp offers trekkers more than just natural wonders. Accommodation plays a pivotal role in shaping the experience of the trekkers. The trail promises adventure, and the best accommodations along the way promise warmth, rest and cultural immersion. 

                      The tea houses in the villages are found on the Himalayas trekking, facilitates with basic accommodation on the trails. It can be the cozy accommodation during the Annapurna circuit. It serves the best meals of the Himalayas with fresh vegetables and fruits. These traditional grounded tea houses are often family run, providing comfortable amenities such as a warm bed, nursing meals and the unforgettable ambience of mountain life. Furnishing with wooden roofs and common dining brings you together with the exciting faces of the trekkers. 

                      In well settled villages trekkers found commonly guesthouses with more upscale facilities than tea houses, and this accommodation may surprise you with Wi-Fi, a variety of menus and occasionally attached bathrooms. The most amazing part of it is scenic from the windows of their rooms through proper sunlight passes and view of the snowy mountains. 

                      Further up, near the base camp the accommodation becomes much more primitive, focusing on essentials comfort and warmth but in its own beautiful way. These higher altitude lodges understand the weary trekkers' needs, providing hot meals, thick blankets and a sense of security. 

                       

                      Route  

                      For the best and easiest way to trek to Annapurna base camp you have to allocate 7-11 days. Pokhara is the gateway for the Annapurna base camp which is the most popular tourist destination in Nepal for the tourist with adventures activities. Most trekkers make this city their first relaxing point before and after a hectic trek.  

                      Trekking in the Annapurna base camp is the most exciting and thrilling experience. There are usually three trekking routes, (Ghorepani poon hill trek route, Ghandruk trekking route, and Dhampus trekking route) commonly used by trekkers to reach the Annapurna base camp. These all-routes lead to one same village and one way to reach the Annapurna base camp. Before Ghorepani Phoon hill trek was the most popular among the tourists but nowadays two other routes are also mostly visited. 

                       

                      Cost  

                      Various factors play vital roles including the duration of trek, the season, the type of accommodation and modes of transportation you need. Likewise travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara different means of transportation is available if the trekkers wish a comfortable travel flight may be suitable which cost higher and more comfortable as transport through bus, jeep etc. On average the Annapurna base camp trek ranges from $700 to $1500 per person, depending on the level of comfort and services that you require. 

                      During the package tour, the cost typically includes the cost of transportation at and to the end point of the trek, accommodation in hotel lodges or guesthouses, meals and the services of the guide and porter. Some may also include the cost of travel insurance permits and equipment rental in their package.  

                      The cost may be more expensive in the peak seasons, which started from September to November and March to May due to the higher demand and the better weather conditions.