- Pokhara, Nepal
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Book your Annapurna Base Camp Trek Package @36000
Starting From ₹ 36000/-
- 4.8/5 Rating
- 1000+ Trekkers
- Certified Guides
- 24/7 Support
Max Elevation
13,550 Ft.
Distance
70 KM
Duration
8 Nights / 9 Days
Gradient
Moderate
Best Month
Mar–May · Sep–Nov
Group Size
20
Annapurna Base Camp Trek - Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of Nepal’s most renowned and scenic trekking experiences, drawing adventurers from around the world. Over six days of trekking, you ascend to a maximum altitude of 13,549 ft, journeying through the stunning Annapurna Sanctuary. The route is a breathtaking mix of diverse landscapes, dense forests, and high alpine meadows, culminating in a mesmerizing view of the Annapurna Massif from the base camp. Peaks like Hiunchuli, Machapuchare (the revered “Fishtail” mountain), and Annapurna South dominate the skyline, leaving trekkers in awe.
From the very start in Pokhara, the Annapurna Base Camp offers stunning mountain views. Ghandruk provides distinct sights of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, while different peaks of the Annapurna range accompany you throughout the journey. As you reach Machapuchare Base Camp, the full glory of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli unfolds before your eyes.
The Annapurna Base camp trek takes you through dense forests within the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Rhododendrons, ferns, and bamboo dominate the lower regions, while higher up, oak forests and alpine grasslands take over. The sound of the Modi Khola river follows you as you trek through thick vegetation, and in some parts, sunlight barely filters through the trees. As you ascend past Bamboo and Dovan, the landscape changes into an alpine environment with flowering plants growing among rocky patches.
Why Annapurna Base Camp is a Must-Do Trek
The ABC trek takes you to the foot of the mighty Annapurna mountain while also offering a close-up view of Machapuchare. The journey through the Annapurna Conservation Area treats you to picturesque landscapes, dense rhododendron forests, and vibrant cultural encounters. You will pass through traditional villages where you can experience the unique customs and warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities. The trek also presents breathtaking panoramic views of Khangsar Kang, Varahashikar, Tarke Kang, Hiunchuli, and other peaks, which appear even more magical at sunrise and sunset with their golden alpenglow.
Cultural Experience and Tea House Trekking
The ABC trek is a classic tea house trek, allowing you to stay in small lodges operated by locals. These tea houses accommodate around 20–25 trekkers and provide traditional Nepalese meals, which often resemble Indian cuisine. Ghandruk, the largest village on the route, gives insight into Gurung culture, while smaller villages along the trail allow trekkers to interact with locals and witness their way of life. The trek is a melting pot of adventurers from all over the world, making the tea houses a hub for shared experiences and lively discussions.
An Unforgettable Adventure
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is a journey filled with diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and breathtaking mountain views. Whether it's walking through dense forests, crossing alpine meadows, or standing face-to-face with the towering Annapurna peaks, every step of the trek is a memory to cherish. This trek is perfect for those seeking a moderate challenge while immersing themselves in the stunning beauty and vibrant traditions of the Nepal Himalayas.
Best Time to Trek
Month-by-month weather, trail conditions and our verdict.
| Month | Weather | Trail Condition | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan–Feb | Cold (-5°C) | Snow at ABC, icy trail | Difficult |
| March | Mild (10–15°C) | Rhododendrons bloom | Excellent |
| April–May | Warm (15–20°C) | Best visibility | Best Season |
| June | Pre-monsoon | Rain starts, leeches | Avoid |
| Jul–Aug | Monsoon | Heavy rain, landslides | Avoid |
| September | Post-monsoon | Crystal clear skies | Excellent |
| Oct–Nov | Cool (8–12°C) | Stable weather, crowds | Best Season |
| December | Cold (2–5°C) | Quiet trail, some snow | Challenging |
Annapurna Base Camp Trek - Complete Information
Welcome to our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Details section — your complete guide to planning an unforgettable Himalayan experience in Nepal.
In this section, you’ll find a detailed day-wise itinerary that outlines every step of your ABC trail, explore fascinating facts about the Annapurna Sanctuary, best time to trek and understand the exact trek distances and altitudes involved. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned mountain explorer, this guide provides clear and concise information to help you prepare for this scenic and culturally rich trek. We cover everything you need to know — from weather conditions and trail highlights to physical fitness tips and high-altitude awareness, ensuring you’re well-prepared both mentally and physically for the journey ahead.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is not just about the trail — it’s about immersing yourself in the serenity of dense rhododendron forests, panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare and Hiunchuli, and the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities along the way.
Engage with every key aspect that guarantees a smooth and memorable ABC trek — from local knowledge and gear advice to timing and acclimatization tips. Let this guide be your trusted companion on one of Nepal’s most iconic and rewarding trails.
Quick Facts
Everything you need to know before starting the trek.
Base Camp
Pokhara
Pickup
Pokhara (Lakeside)
Nearest Railway Station
Gorakhpur (India) / via Kathmandu
Nearest Airport
Pokhara International Airport
Temperature
Summers: 20° Max / 5° Min · Winters: 10° Max / -10° Min
Mobile Network
NTC/Ncell available till most tea-houses. Patchy beyond MBC and ABC.
Electricity
Available at most tea-houses with charging on payment. Solar/hydro powered — can be intermittent in winter.
Last ATM
Pokhara is the last reliable ATM. Carry sufficient Nepali Rupees for the trail.
Fitness & Training
ABC is moderate — a 6-week prep plan gets you trail-ready.
- Who Can Do This Trek
- Minimum age: 12 years
- Maximum age: 65 years (with doctor clearance)
- No prior trekking experience needed
- Healthy BMI; basic cardio fitness recommended
- Key Exercises
- Calf raises — for the Ulleri 3000 stairs
- Squats & lunges — for steep descents
- Core planks — for balance on rocky terrain
- Stair climbing — most important of all
- 6-Week Training Plan
- Week 1–2
- 30 min brisk walk daily • 3×20 squats • 10 min stair climbing
- Week 3–4
- 5 km jog or cycling 45 min • Stair climbs with 5 kg backpack • Lunges & calf raises
- Week 5–6
- 10–15 km hike weekends • Full backpack (8–10 kg) • Daily core workout
- When NOT to Trek
- • Heart conditions without doctor clearance
- • Recent surgery (within 3 months)
- • Severe asthma at altitude
- Not sure if you're fit enough?
Short Itinerary
- Day 1
Arrival in Pokhara
Drive/Fly · Briefing
- Day 2
Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga
Drive 1.5 hr · Trek 4–5 hrs
- Day 3
Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani
Trek · 6–7 hrs
- Day 4
Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani
Trek · 6–7 hrs
- Day 5
Tadapani → Chhomrong → Bamboo
Trek · 6–7 hrs
- Day 6
Bamboo → Deurali
Trek · 5–6 hrs
- Day 7
Deurali → MBC → Annapurna Base Camp
Trek · 6–7 hrs · 4,130 m
- Day 8
ABC → Bamboo → Jhinu Danda
Trek · 7–8 hrs
- Day 9
Jhinu → Nayapul → Pokhara
Trek 4 hrs · Drive 2 hrs
Trek Route & Altitude Profile
Visual overview of every stop and how high you climb each day.
Gradual ascent profile reduces altitude sickness risk.
Detailed Itinerary
Click below to download the full detailed itinerary as PDF.
Day 1: Arrival in Pokhara
Arrive in the lakeside city of Pokhara — the gateway to the Annapurna region. Check-in to your hotel, relax by Phewa Lake, and meet your trek guide for a detailed pre-trek briefing in the evening. Gear check, route walk-through and Q&A. Overnight stay at hotel in Pokhara.
- 🛬 Arrival · Briefing · Overnight in hotel
Day 2: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga
After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070 m), the official starting point of the trek. Begin your walk along the Modi Khola, crossing suspension bridges and passing terraced fields. The gentle trail leads through Birethanti and ascends gradually to Tikhedhunga (1,540 m). Overnight in tea-house.
- 🚙 Drive: 1.5 hrs
- 🥾 Trek: 4–5 hrs
Day 3: Tikhedhunga → Ulleri → Ghorepani
Today is one of the more challenging days as you climb the famous Ulleri staircase — over 3,000 stone steps! Pass through enchanting rhododendron and oak forests as you ascend to Ghorepani, a charming Magar village with breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Overnight in tea-house.
- 🥾 Trek: 6–7 hrs
- 📍 Alt: 2,860 m
Day 4: Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani
Wake up before dawn for the short hike up to Poon Hill — a world-famous viewpoint offering an unforgettable sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then continue through dense rhododendron forests to Tadapani (2,630 m). Overnight in tea-house.
- 🌅 Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210 m)
- 🥾 Trek: 6–7 hrs
Day 5: Tadapani → Chhomrong → Bamboo
Descend through forests to Chhomrong (2,170 m), the largest Gurung village on the route and the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. Enjoy stunning views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South. Cross the Chhomrong Khola and ascend through bamboo and rhododendron forests to reach Bamboo. Overnight in tea-house.
- 🥾 Trek: 6–7 hrs
- 📍 Alt: 2,310 m
Day 6: Bamboo → Dovan → Himalaya → Deurali
Today’s trail follows the Modi Khola gorge, climbing steadily through dense forests and passing waterfalls. Cross Dovan and the small settlement of Himalaya before reaching Deurali. As you gain altitude, the vegetation thins and the alpine landscape opens up. Overnight in tea-house at Deurali.
- 🥾 Trek: 5–6 hrs
- 📍 Alt: 3,230 m
Day 7: Deurali → MBC → Annapurna Base Camp
The most rewarding day! Trek through the narrow gorge into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Reach Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m) for lunch with jaw-dropping views of the Fishtail peak. Continue another 2 hours to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Stand surrounded by a 360° amphitheatre of giants — Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machapuchare. Overnight at ABC.
- 🥾 Trek: 6–7 hrs
- 📍 Max Alt: 4,130 m (13,550 ft)
Day 8: ABC → Bamboo → Jhinu Danda
Catch a magical sunrise at ABC before retracing your steps down to Bamboo and onwards to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m). Reward yourself with a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs — a perfect way to soothe tired muscles. Overnight in tea-house at Jhinu Danda.
- 🥾 Trek: 7–8 hrs
- ♨️ Hot springs at Jhinu
Day 9: Jhinu → Nayapul → Pokhara
Final day of the trek. Descend through villages and terraced fields to Siwai, then drive back to Pokhara. Celebrate the completion of your journey with a hot shower and a memorable dinner by Phewa Lake. Trek concludes with unforgettable memories of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- 🥾 Trek: 4 hrs
- 🚙 Drive: 2 hrs
Health & Altitude Safety
ABC reaches 4,130 m. AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) can occur above 3,000 m when your body can’t adjust to thinner air fast enough. Here’s how we keep you safe.
- Early Warning Symptoms
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea / vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath at rest
- ⚠ If 2+ symptoms appear, tell your guide immediately.
- Prevention Tips
- Walk slow, walk steady — no rushing
- Stay hydrated: 3–4 litres water daily
- Avoid alcohol above 3,000 m
- Diamox (acetazolamide) — consult your doctor
- Built-in acclimatization in our itinerary
- Our Safety Protocol
- Oximeter carried by guide (daily SpO₂ checks)
- First aid kit on every trek
- Emergency helicopter evacuation contacts
- Nearest hospital: Pokhara (3–4 hrs from trail)
- Medical Evacuation
- Travel insurance covering helicopter rescue up to ₹10 lakh is mandatory.
- We assist with evacuation coordination 24/7.
Our guides are trained in Wilderness First Aid and carry emergency equipment on every trek.
Things to Carry
A well-packed bag makes for a smooth trek. Here’s our recommended checklist.
- Basic Gears
- Backpack (50–60 L)
- Trekking Shoes (high ankle, waterproof)
- Trekking Pole
- LED Torch / Headlamp
- One Water Bottle (one litre)
- Lunch Box
- Basic Medications (or prescribed if any)
- Clothes
- Trekking Jacket (down/insulated)
- Warm Layers (fleece)
- Two trek pants
- Full sleeve dry-fit T-shirts
- Thermals (1–2 pairs)
- Accessories
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 50/70)
- Lip Balm (SPF 30)
- Synthetic hand gloves
- Woolen Cap
- Three pairs of Socks
- Raincoat / Poncho is a must
- Others & Documents
- Daypack (Recommended) for summit Day
- Plastic cover (for wet clothes in winters and rainy season)
- Passport (Valid for 6+ months)
- Nepal visa & passport-size photos
- Travel insurance copy (recommended)
Inclusion & Exclusion
Complete cost breakdown — know exactly what’s covered in your Annapurna Base Camp trek package.
Inclusions
- Airport / hotel pickup & drop in Pokhara.
- Accommodation in Pokhara (twin sharing) on arrival and departure day.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek at tea-houses.
- Tea-house / lodge accommodation throughout the trek on twin sharing basis.
- Professional English-speaking trek leader and assistant guide(s).
- Porter support (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, up to 20 kg combined).
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS card.
- First-aid kit, oximeter and basic medical supplies.
- All applicable government taxes and service charges.
Exclusions
- International airfare and Nepal entry visa fees.
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls, hot showers, charging etc.
- Bottled / boiled water and hot/cold beverages on the trek.
- Travel insurance (mandatory — covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,000 m).
- Any cost or services not mentioned in the Inclusions.
- Cost arising due to unforeseen incidents like bad weather, medical evacuation, road blocks, helicopter rescue etc.
- Extra porter on personal request — can be arranged at additional cost.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel, reduce, or amend a guaranteed reservation, please do so by 12 noon, 15 days prior to arrival to avoid cancellation charges. Any cancellation made within 15 days of arrival will be 100% non-refundable. Bookings made under non-cancellable or non-amendable packages or rates cannot be canceled or amended, and the full amount of the advance paid will be treated as the cancellation fee. The same terms apply if guests do not show up.
For all bookings other than non-cancellable ones, if the guest does not show up, the complete booking will be non-refundable. If the guest chooses to check out early, one night’s room rate, including taxes, will be charged. No cancellations will be accepted over the phone or via WhatsApp message. Please reply to the email confirmation you received at the time of booking to request a cancellation.
No refunds will be provided in case of problems arising due to government orders, harsh weather conditions, protests, landslides, or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we usually have a backup plan ready and will proceed with that. Sometimes, we may have to cancel activities mentioned in the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.
If a trek is called off at the last moment due to natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances (such as rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strikes, or bandhs), participants will be provided with a travel voucher for the same amount. This voucher can be used within 365 days of the issuance date for any package of equal value, subject to availability.
If a trek or trip has to be aborted midway due to natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances, no refund will be provided. Mountainiax will not bear any extra expenses due to such natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances.
Refund Policy
The following refund shall be payable to the user in case of valid cancellation as per the guidelines:
Note: The above-mentioned refunds are subjected to deductions for any expenses that may have been incurred for hotel booking or transport etc. Refunds are applicable on the total cost and not on the advance amount.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Gallery
A glimpse of the beauty that awaits you on the trail.
FAQ's
What is the difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The ABC trek is rated Moderate. While there are no technical climbing sections, the trek involves long walking days (5–8 hours), steep ascents (notably the Ulleri stairs), and altitudes above 4,000 m. Reasonable fitness with regular cardio training for 4–6 weeks before the trek is recommended.
What is the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
The best months are March to May (spring — rhododendrons in bloom, clear views) and September to November (post-monsoon — crystal clear skies and stable weather). December to February is also possible but cold with snow at higher altitudes. June–August (monsoon) is best avoided due to leeches, rain, landslides and obstructed views.
How high is Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp sits at 4,130 metres (13,550 ft). It lies within the Annapurna Sanctuary — a glacial basin surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the Annapurna Massif including Annapurna I (8,091 m).
Is altitude sickness a concern on the ABC trek?
AMS is possible above 3,000 m. The ABC itinerary has a gradual gain profile with built-in acclimatization. Stay hydrated, walk at your own pace, avoid alcohol, and inform your guide immediately if you feel symptoms like persistent headache, nausea or breathlessness.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
ABC is a classic ‘tea-house’ trek — you stay in family-run lodges along the trail. Rooms are basic with twin beds, shared bathrooms (mostly squat), and simple bedding. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are usually paid extras. In Pokhara, you stay in standard tourist-class hotels.
What kind of food is served during the trek?
Tea-houses serve a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food including the staple dal-bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables — unlimited refills), noodles, momos, fried rice, pasta, pancakes, eggs, soups and tea/coffee. Menus are surprisingly extensive even at higher altitudes.
Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Yes. You need two permits — the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. Both are arranged by Mountainiax and included in the package cost.
Is mobile network and electricity available during the trek?
NTC and Ncell SIMs work at most tea-houses up to Deurali; signal becomes patchy at MBC and ABC. Electricity for charging is available at most lodges (often paid per device per hour). Carry a power bank for backup.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes — travel insurance is strongly recommended (and effectively mandatory). It must cover trekking up to 5,000 m, medical evacuation, and helicopter rescue. Please share a copy with our team before the trek begins.
Where can I store my extra luggage during the trek?
You can store extra luggage at your hotel in Pokhara free of charge for the duration of the trek. Carry only what you need on the trail; porters carry up to 20 kg combined for two trekkers.
Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek suitable for beginners?
Yes — ABC is one of the most popular treks for first-time high-altitude trekkers. With proper preparation (4–6 weeks of cardio), the right gear, and the support of our experienced guides, beginners regularly complete this trek successfully.
