Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 15 Days

  • Duration15 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty LevelModerate
  • Max Altitude4,130m

About Trip

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, is one of the go-to trails in Nepal. It’s accessible, exciting, not too difficult, and offers incredible mountain views. The Annapurna region is home to some of the highest mountains in the world – it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to share their presence! Enjoy lush forests, charming Gurung, Magar, and other ethnic villages, all while admiring fantastic mountain vistas.

The first few days of the journey are actually the toughest, as you traverse the steep ascents and descents from valley to valley, sometimes along steep stone staircases. However, if you take time to rest and appreciate the scenery along the way, it is not too difficult. Plus, the lush rhododendron and bamboo forests and exciting suspension bridgesdistract you from the strenuous climb.

One highlight is reaching Poon Hill, a spectacular viewpoint from Ghorepani. If you’re up for an early morning wakeup call, the sunrise is one of the best you will ever see. About an hour’s climb up the hill plops you to a viewpoint with sunlit views of Dhaulagiri (8167 meters), Tukuche (6920 meters), and many more. The panoramic view is stunning and excites us even more for the mountain views that lie ahead.

Before you know it, you are walking at the same level as the clouds, closed in by the staggering Himalayan peaks. Continue hiking along the alpine meadows, scattered with massive boulders, up to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 meters). From here to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m), Annapurna South (7219 meters), Annapurna I (8091 meters), Annapurna III (7555 meters), Hiunchuli (6441 meters), Gangapurna (7454 meters), and the unique pyramid-like peak of Machhapuchhre (6993 meters) can be seen. Arriving at ABC is a most magnificent feeling. The glacial basin is closed in by the sheer mountains.

Full of energy from the awesome mountain views, we begin our descent. Though we are on the same trail, the way down is no less exciting than the way up. Take it slow and enjoy the scenery you missed on the way up. At JhinuDanda, soak in the cleansing water and let your muscles heal up. Throughout the trek, enjoy the beautiful hospitality of Gurung, Magar, and other ethnic groups. Their kindness and generosity is hard to beat. From Nayapul, we head back to Pokhara for some exploration and relaxation. Chill out by lakeside, letting your body rest after the memorable adventure.

Why Choose Ashmita for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek ?

Ashmita Treks and Tours believes in giving you the best tour experience possible. We love Nepal and are passionate about showing visitors the authentic side of Nepal. our passion shows through. Since 2007, our knowledgeable staff and guides have strived to fulfill and exceed all of our clients’ expectations. We have been recommended by Lonely Planet travel guide books Trekking Agency highly rangket based on Adventure Outdoor Activities organizer for Nepal, Sikkim and Darjeeling Himalaya region as well as hundreds of past clients.

Highlights

  • Majestic sunrise view from Poon Hill
  • Spend time with and learn about Gurung, Magar, and other local ethnic groups
  • Mind-blowing views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli and other Himalayan peaks
  • Lush rhododendron and bamboo forests that are filled with life
  • End the trek at Jhinu Hot Springs – a relaxing place for your body and mind
  • Visit Kathmandu’s famous UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Visit in-depth commentary on religious and cultural landmarks

Itinerary

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Dear Guest This is our regular Itinerary and most people have done this itinerary. So If you have any special request on this itinerary you can contact us via email. We can Customize this trip with your request. If you want to make it shorter or longer or want to add some other tours with this package please mention on your email, we will work out on your request. 

Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival to TIA, we pick you up and take you to your hotel. In the evening, we brief you on the upcoming adventure. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 1 hours
  • 1,400m
  • Rest Day

Take breakfast in the hotel and then join us for a sightseeing tour of some of Kathmandu’s famous UNESCO World Heritage sites. Throughout the day, we visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Our knowledgeable guides will tell you all about the historical and cultural significance of each spot. Spend your evening as wish, wandering around and preparing for the trek. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 9am
  • Breakfast
  • 1,400m
  • Sightseeing tour and trek preparation

We take the comfortable tourist bus early in the morning and head towards Pokhara. The bus stops for meals and snacks along the way, often with pleasant views of the Trishuli River. In Pokhara, spend the rest of the afternoon wandering around lakeside or sightseeing around the area. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 7am
  • Breakfast
  • 1,740 m 5,710 ft
  • Spend the rest

Our trek begins with excitement, after a short drive through the hills to Nayapul. We check our Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits and start the trek. After about three hours, we reach Tikhedhunga, which lies along the BhurungdiKhola. Stop for a lunch or snack here, then continue to Ulleri. Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 5 hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 1,960m
  • Trekking

A gorgeous day of ascending near terraced rice fields, past streams, and through forests brings us to Ghorepani. The lively village, situated in the middle of a rhododendron forest, is inhabited largely by the Magar ethnic group. The scenery constantly changes throughout the day and you will be entertained by the beauty throughout. Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 6 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 2,750m
  • Trekking

Today is a memorable day for most trekkers. Leave early in the morning to get a crisp view of the sunrise illuminating high Himalayan peaks. It’s truly one of the best mountain views in the Annapurna region. You’ll see Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre in all their majesty. Take some photos before heading back to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then, trek to Tadapani and relax the rest of the day. Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 6 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 3,200m
  • Trekking

On a clear day, wake up with awesome views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and others in the distance. The trail first descends through a jungle. The tall trees are coated with moss. The amount of vegetation in the jungle makes the air fresh and cool. The rest of the day is spent descending and ascending various hills until reaching Chhomrong. Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 5 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 2,210m
  • Trekking

Beginning the day after breakfast, we descend on a long stone staircase to a suspension bridge over the ChhomrongKhola. After Tilche, the trail passes through dense rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forests. Breathe in the lovely fresh air! Climb and climb past Sinuwa, through more forests. We reach the upper Modi Valley and then descend on a long, sometimes slippery staircase to Bamboo. Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 5 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 2,310m
  • Trekking

As the name suggests, Bamboo is encompassed by bamboo forests. We pass the bamboo into rhododendron forests up the edge of the canyon. Here, it is common to see black-faced langur monkeys swinging from branch to branch. Less than an hour from Bamboo, we reach Doban. We can have a tea here and/or trek on. Carry on, passing Himalayan Hotel. Climb to steep trail with large boulders and high rock walls to Deurali. Overnight in guest house. 

  • Guest House
  • 4 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 3,140m
  • Trekking

The mountains are getting nearer and nearer! A full day of ascending takes us to Annapurna Base Camp, the ultimate destination of the trek. A notable spot is Machhapuchhre Base Camp, which offers an unbelievable panoramic view of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the distinctive Machhapuchhre. By this point, you probably will experience some symptoms of the altitude wearing on you. Take it slow to Annapurna Base Camp. Before you know it, you’ll have reached! Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 6 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 4,130m
  • Trekking

Today marks the first day of our descent. First, enjoy the early morning views of the surrounding peaks. In the morning, the skies are clearer, so take advantage of this! The way down is easier, so enjoy any views you missed on the hike up. Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 6 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 2,345m
  • Trekking

Take your time going down to JhinuDanda. No need to rush through this beautiful scenery. The trail goes up and down, but over the course of the day, we lose altitude. Jhindu Hot Springs lies about 25 minutes from the village. Soak in the healing waters, which feels great after hiking for these days. It is also said that these waters help cure various skin diseases. Overnight in guest house.

  • Guest House
  • 5 Hours
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • 1780m
  • Trekking

Leaving JhinuDanda, we move down all the way to Nayapul, passing terraced hills and crossing streams. Check out of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project check point and wait for our ride. It’s tough to say goodbye, but it’s more of a “see you later,” as we hope to see you back in the Himalayas in the future. Then, we take a drive back to Pokhara and you are free to wander around the rest of the day. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • 5 Hours Trek - 1 hours drive
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trekking and drive

In the morning, we board a tourist bus and to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway. Enjoy the splendid landscape throughout the drive. Explore Kathmandu or shop around in the afternoon. We host a delicious farewell dinner for you in the evening. Overnight in hotel.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Driving and explore local market

We pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Airport. Thank you for trekking with Ashmita Trek and Tours! We hope to see you soon.

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    Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 15 Days map

    What's Included

    • Transportation to and from TribhuvanInternational Airport.
    • Three nights in a 2-3 star hotel in Kathmandu on bed and breakfast basis.
    • All transportation during the itinerary.
    • Guest house accommodation during the trek.
    • 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
    • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
    • All necessary trekking equipment (sleeping bag, warm layers, etc.)
    • First Aid Kit
    • Maps
    • Service charge and government taxes
    • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
    • International and Domestic Airfare.
    • Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast).
    • Personal expenses (shopping, extra snacks, etc.)
    • Sightseeing entrance fees in Kathmandu.
    • Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses.
    • 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.)

    Useful Information

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts with a gorgeous drive from Pokhara through the hills to Nayapul. The trail weaves over valleys and down steep gorges, passing quaint villages along the way. On Day 3 of the trek, you reach Poon Hill, a famous panoramic viewpoint of Annapurna region peaks. The trail descends and continues to Tadapani, Chhomrong, and Bamboo. Then, two days of steep climbing past Deurali lead us to Annapurna Base Camp. Spend a day enjoying the breathtaking views before heading back down to Nayapul and driving to Pokhara.

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

    The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate trek in the Himalayas. Compared to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the trail to Annapurna Base Camp is much easier and accessible to beginners. There are some steep sections, but overall the change in elevation is gradual. For this reason, the risk of high altitude sickness is low. However, it does still happen, so if you experience any symptoms, do tell your guide immediately. Expect to hike for about 6 to 7 hours per day. It helps to be in shape and have solid stamina. Though it is not necessary, it helps to do some aerobic training before your trek. Also, keep in mind that the weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, so you may face some tough conditions. Try to be mentally prepared for situations that are out of our control.

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permit

    For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, two permits are required: Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). The TIMS card costs 2,000 Nepali rupees (about $20 USD) if you are a solo trekker and 1,000 rupees (about $10 USD) if you are going with a group. The ACAP permit costs 3,000 rupees (about $30) per trekker. Permit costs are included in the price of this package.

    Accommodation and Food on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

    During our 14-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, there are several different situations for food and accommodation. In Pokhara and Kathmandu (before and after trekking), you will at a 2-3 star hotel, with breakfast included. During the 8 nights spent on the trail, you will stay at a teahouse. The modest rooms are on a twin-sharing basis with a mattress, blanket, and pillow. Some lodges offer hot showers for an additional cost. Teahouses in the Annapurna region serve both local and western cuisine. For breakfast, you can choose from Tibetan bread, pancakes, chapatti, eggs, porridge, or muesli. For lunch and dinner, options include dal bhat (typical Nepali dish with rice, vegetable curry, lentil soup, and pickle), curry, thukpa, fried rice, momo, pizza, pasta, and more. Drinks include tea, coffee, cold drinks, and alcohol (not included in the cost of the package).

    Best Time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

    Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather is more stable and the skies are clear, providing stellar mountain views. The climate, which is not too cold or unbearably hot, makes for a pleasant trekking experience. Also, during the spring, flowers are in full bloom – adding another level of beauty to the trail. Monsoon season, though possible, is not recommended for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The trails are slippery, it rains most days, and the leeches are out in full force. Winter is not super favorable either, as the extreme cold can take the joy out of trekking. However, both these seasons have their perks (i.e. less people on the trail), so if you are determined and can bear the conditions, the monsoon and winter seasons are suitable. There is never a bad time to visit the Himalayas.

    FAQs

    Yes, on your private trek package on upon arrival at Kathamandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be received and welcomed by one of our Ashmita Trek and Tours crews and transfer to the respective hotel.

    Dear Guest we provide private vehicle for airport transfers and with sightseeing tour in Kathmandu and by tourist bus for Kathmandu - Pokhara – Kathmandu.

    However, you have options to drive by private car/jeep for Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu or short flight to Pokhara and return. Let us know if you want to upgrade the transport to private transport or flights we are pleased to arrange accordingly. 

    Definitely, the private trek is available on any date of the year as per your connivance date of travel. We have listed some fixed dates for the group trek however it does not mean that other dates are not available. These fixed dates are only for the group trek and if you prefer to do private trek to annapurna base camp then let us know as any date is available for private trek to Annapurna base camp.

    Yes, you can be paid either way. Advance can made via PayPal However, we recommend you to pay in cash for the remaining of your tour balance, paying by credit card charge you 4% extra as serving fee by the bank. Any amounts of cash are acceptable in USD, Euro, Nepalese Rupee! 

    Tipping is a gracious way of saying thanks to your guides and porters.It is not mandatory but expected and always appreciated. Local currency is preferred and unless and you want to tip separately guides will divide tips. The recommended tip is US$ 5 & US $ 3 from each member (of group) for tour guide and driver on day 2 respectively and total of US $ 100 from each member for the trek to divide to guides and porters (it depends on the size of the group and our trek guide will give you clearer idea when the trek come to end).

    Yes, Or guide will be taking a first aid kit with basis medicines including Diamox. However, we would recommend you to take some medicine by yourself. 

    Yes, travel insurance is required to do Annapurna base camp trek. The Annapurna base camp trek is an adventure trek in high Himalaya and there is always risk of AMS or other sickness and injury. In case of any serious sickness or injury, we have to rescue/evacuate you to Kathmandu and transfer to hospital to visit doctor. You will be entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in the evacuation/rescue so, we strongly advise you to have travel policy that cover these type of evacuation in emergency.

    Using data on a local SIM card is usually the easiest way to access the internet on the trail. Since 2010, there is Ncell coverage all the way up to Everest Base Camp itself. Also, most guesthouses have WiFi, though many require you to pay some rate to use it.

    Customer Reviews

    • D

      David - Simon, United Kingdom - November 27, 2019

      My friend and I decided to book a last minute Trip to Nepal to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek in 2019. and turned out to be a great decision because we had an absolutely amazing experience! From the very beginning we had lots of questions about the Nepal trip and itinerary and Subash Tamang the owner was always quick with answers so we felt comfortable with everything. The Trekking team from Ashmita Trek Company has done a marvellous job to ensure that our safety, logistics and lodging was organised properly during our Trek. the guides were helpful, friendly and were always on the lookout for our well-being which I deeply appreciate.

      All in all we had a wonderful time and I could honestly recommend these guys to anyone interested in Nepal Trek and Tours. Only hope I come back in the near future and do another trek!

    • M

      Moritz D, Australia - November 21, 2019

      Had a wonderful and successful trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Ashmita Trek and Tours. This was my first trip trekking in Nepal and as a solo traveler I had a lot of concerns about the difficulty of trekking. But everything right from the beginning it's was really clear and easy: for my booking the tour, pick up at the airport on time, Comfortable Good Hotel in Kathamandu Before and after Trek and during all trekking adventures were well organized. We reached ABC 4,130mt ! 

      Definitely aback again for my next Adventure with Ashmita !

    • M

      Mark Allison, Australia - November 15, 2019

      Unforgettable Annapurna Base Camp trek -15 days experience not just because of the breathtaking sceneries view of ABC is a also flora and fauna.thanks to the perfect and truly personalized approach from the Mr, Subash the owner of Ashmita Trek and Tours and his company Teams.We didn't need to worry about anything during our trek to ABC from the beginning and End of our trip everything was organized for trekking equipment necessary permit and Great Hotel before and after trek they went above and beyond for us catering from medical support,moral support and guiding us throughout the trek safely. and looked after all emails answered promptly and questions we had where always answered fully.

      Our guide and porters where superb this is our 3rd time using our trip through Ashmita trek and tours company We truly had the best time in our lives, we highly recommended to anyone to visit Annapurna Base Trek in Nepal Himalaya. Thank you so much Subash and teams for our wonderful Trek can't wait to go next adventure with you.

    • P

      Paul L, United Kingdom - November 05, 2019

      We are so grateful that we got a chance to experience such an amazing Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Ashmita Trek and Tours.Tired but happy to see an awesome place like Annapurna mountains and Fishtail too. The tea houses during the trek were great even though just a humble one.

      They provide us with a warm meal and clean blanket. Enough to get rest after a long trek. Our guide, Sangay, was fantastic! He looked after us the whole way, making sure we had everything we need (His English is excellent) and even phoned ahead to ask the lodges to put beer in the fridge for us once he knew we liked an evening drink. :-) I would absolutely recommend both Ashmita Trek and Tours and Sangay as a Guide.

    • S

      Simon D, United Kingdom - October 18, 2019

      Our family of four was lucky to experience the Amazing trek to the Annapurna Base Camp with Ashmita Trek and Tours, enjoying every single moment of it... also exhausting, never climbed so many steps in my life... But the views, Mount Machapuchare, Annapurna Range, the villagesalong the way, the people of cultural, friends you make on the road, a really wonderful and rewarding experience!

      See you our next adventure !

       

    Trip Advisor