Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Book your Annapurna Base Camp Trek Package @36000

Starting From ₹ 36000/-

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, without question, one of the greatest walking experiences on the planet. Every year, thousands of trekkers from India, Europe, and beyond lace up their boots in Pokhara and set off into the Annapurna Sanctuary — and almost every single one of them returns with the same words: “That was the best thing I’ve ever done.”

And honestly? They’re not wrong.

Over 9 days and roughly 70 km of trail, the Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you from the subtropical warmth of the Modi Khola valley all the way up to 4,130 m (13,550 ft) — into a jaw-dropping glacial amphitheatre ringed by eight peaks above 6,000 m, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), the tenth highest mountain in the world. You don’t need to be a mountaineer. You don’t need prior trekking experience. What you need is the will to go, a decent pair of boots, and four to six weeks of basic fitness prep.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek begins in Pokhara — a beautiful lakeside city with the entire Annapurna range visible on a clear morning. From Nayapul, you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and the trail starts weaving its magic immediately. Dense rhododendron forests, terraced rice fields, stone-paved village paths, suspension bridges swaying over turquoise rivers — the scenery changes dramatically every single day.

By the time you pass through Ghandruk, the largest Gurung village on the route, you already have Machapuchare (the “Fishtail” mountain — Nepal’s Matterhorn, sacred and unclimbed) dominating the skyline ahead. It’s one of those views that stops you in your tracks. Then comes the steep, forest-cloaked climb through Chhomrong, the last permanent village before the Sanctuary, and the atmosphere shifts — quieter, wilder, more alpine.

As you push higher through Bamboo, Dovan, and Deurali, the vegetation peels back and the trail narrows between rock walls. And then, on Day 7, you walk into the Annapurna Sanctuary itself — an arena of mountains so immense and so close that trekkers regularly describe it as surreal. That moment, standing at Annapurna Base Camp surrounded by a 360° wall of Himalayan giants at golden hour or sunrise, is one you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life.

This is the Annapurna Base Camp trek. This is why people come to Nepal.

Why Annapurna Base Camp is a Must-Do Trek

Among hundreds of Himalayan treks, the Annapurna Base Camp trek remains one of the world’s top-ranked adventures for its unmatched mix of scenery, culture, accessibility, and biodiversity. Surrounded by peaks like Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna, trekkers witness breathtaking sunrise views over glowing glaciers. The trail passes through authentic Gurung and Magar villages where local traditions, warm hospitality, and mountain culture remain beautifully preserved. Rated moderate in difficulty, the trek is challenging yet achievable for fit beginners without technical climbing skills. Inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, the journey also offers rich biodiversity, from rhododendron forests and bamboo groves to rare Himalayan wildlife and alpine meadows near the snowline.

Tea House Trekking on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a classic teahouse trek, where family-run lodges provide accommodation and meals throughout the journey. After long trekking days, you relax in cozy wooden lodges with hot meals like dal-bhat, momos, and ginger tea while meeting trekkers from around the world. Lower sections such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong offer comfortable stays with private rooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi, while higher stops like Deurali, MBC, and ABC provide simpler twin-sharing lodges with shared facilities. Despite the basic setup at higher altitudes, the warm dining halls and mountain atmosphere create an unforgettable experience. Indian trekkers especially enjoy the familiar Nepali dal-bhat, a filling comfort meal with unlimited refills that becomes the perfect fuel for the trek.

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 the complete planning guide for your Annapurna Base Camp trek — everything you need to know, in one place, written by a team that has guided this route hundreds of times.

This section covers the full Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary day by day, so you know exactly what to expect at every stage. We cover the Annapurna Base Camp trek route in detail — every village, every altitude gain, every key viewpoint. We explain the Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty honestly, so you can train specifically for what the trail demands. And we give you practical intel — permits, gear, food, altitude safety — so there are no nasty surprises once you’re on the trail.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic experiences, and we want yours to go perfectly. Whether you’re a first-timer planning your first Himalayan adventure or an experienced trekker coming to knock this classic off your list, use this guide as your foundation.

 

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.

Trek fitness level
Easy Moderate Tough Difficult Extreme

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

Let’s be straight with you about the Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty: this is not a walk in the park. But it’s also not Everest Base Camp. With the right preparation, the vast majority of healthy adults — including complete beginners — successfully complete this trek every season.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty is officially rated Moderate. Here’s what that means in practice:

  • You will walk 5–8 hours a day for 7 consecutive days of active trekking
  • The biggest single challenge on the Annapurna Base Camp trek is Day 3 — the Ulleri staircase. Over 3,000 stone steps climbed in a single morning. Your calves will know about it.
  • Altitude is a real factor. You cross the 3,000 m AMS risk threshold on Day 6 and reach 4,130 m on Day 7. The Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty increases significantly above this point if you haven’t acclimatized properly.
  • The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked throughout — no navigation skills required.
  • There are no fixed ropes, no glacier crossings, no technical sections.

So when people ask us “Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty manageable for me?” — the honest answer is: if you can walk comfortably for 2 hours today, and you’re willing to train for 4–6 weeks, yes. Absolutely.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty is also heavily influenced by the season. Trekking in October or spring gives you firm, dry trails. Attempting the trek in June or July means muddy paths, leeches, and reduced visibility — the difficulty rating effectively goes up by one level.

What increases the difficulty:

  • Not training beforehand (the most common mistake)
  • Rushing the ascent — the Annapurna Base Camp trek is not a race
  • Ignoring early AMS symptoms
  • Carrying an oversized, overweight pack

What makes it easier:

  • Booking an experienced guide (we provide one on every Annapurna Base Camp trek package)
  • Using porter support — your guide carries navigation; a porter carries your bag
  • 4–6 weeks of targeted training (see our plan below)
  • Booking during spring or autumn

The Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty should never put you off — it should motivate you to prepare properly. And when you’re standing at 4,130 m with Annapurna I filling your entire field of vision, every one of those training runs will feel worth it.

Trek Route & Altitude Profile — Detailed Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp trek route follows a well-established trail through the Annapurna Conservation Area, entering via the Modi Khola valley and penetrating deep into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Here’s the complete route with altitudes:

Altitude profile (metres)
AMS risk zone (3000m)
Normal altitude AMS risk zone 3000m threshold

Gradual ascent profile reduces altitude sickness risk.

Detailed Itinerary

The standard Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary runs 9 days from Pokhara and back. It’s been refined over decades of guiding experience to give you the best possible acclimatization profile while hitting every highlight the trail has to offer. Our Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary includes the Poon Hill sunrise — one of the most spectacular mountain viewpoints in all of Nepal — which many shorter itineraries skip.

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D1

Day 1: Arrival in Pokhara

Your Annapurna Base Camp trek begins in Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lakeside city and the gateway to the Annapurna region. Most trekkers arrive by a short flight or tourist bus from Kathmandu. After reaching Pokhara, you’ll meet your trek guide and attend a detailed pre-trek briefing covering the route, teahouse stays, altitude awareness, packing essentials, and trekking guidelines. This session helps you prepare mentally and physically for the journey ahead. Spend the evening relaxing near Lakeside and get proper rest before the trek officially starts the next morning. Overnight stay in Pokhara hotel with dinner included.

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D2

Day 2: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga

After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The scenic journey offers beautiful views of villages, terraced hills, and Himalayan peaks. From Nayapul, the trek begins with an easy walk through Birethanti and along the Modi Khola River. Cross suspension bridges, pass traditional villages, and follow stone-paved trails surrounded by green landscapes. Today’s trek is a gentle introduction to the Annapurna region, helping you adjust to the trail comfortably before the tougher days ahead. Reach Tikhedhunga by evening and relax at a local tea house. Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

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D3

Day 3: Tikhedhunga → Ulleri → Ghorepani

Today’s trek is one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of the Annapurna Base Camp route. The day begins with the famous Ulleri staircase, where you climb thousands of steep stone steps through traditional villages and lush forests. As you gain altitude, the trail passes through beautiful rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests, especially vibrant during spring. After several hours of steady trekking, you arrive at Ghorepani, a scenic mountain village surrounded by Himalayan peaks. On clear evenings, stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli create an unforgettable atmosphere. Overnight stay at a tea house in Ghorepani with all meals included.

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D4

Day 4: Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani

Wake up early for the unforgettable sunrise hike to Poon Hill, one of the highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The short climb rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and the iconic Machapuchare peak glowing in the morning light. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, continue trekking through peaceful rhododendron and oak forests toward Tadapani. The trail offers a refreshing mix of nature, mountain scenery, and quiet forest paths. By evening, reach the beautiful village of Tadapani, known for its close-up Himalayan views and relaxing atmosphere. Overnight stay at a tea house with all meals included.

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D5

Day 5: Tadapani → Chhomrong → Bamboo

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary region. The trail descends through lush forests before reaching Chhomrong, a beautiful Gurung village known for its stunning mountain views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South. Chhomrong is a popular resting point with cozy tea houses and a lively trekking atmosphere. After lunch, cross the suspension bridge over the Chhomrong Khola and continue through forested trails toward Bamboo. Surrounded by dense greenery and river sounds, Bamboo offers a peaceful overnight stop in the heart of the valley. Overnight stay at a tea house with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

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D6

Day 6: Bamboo → Dovan → Himalaya → Deurali

The trail continues deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, following the scenic Modi Khola valley through Dovan and Himalaya. Dense forests slowly give way to rocky alpine landscapes as the altitude increases. The air becomes noticeably thinner, encouraging a slower and steadier trekking pace for proper acclimatization. Surrounded by towering cliffs and dramatic Himalayan scenery, this section feels remote and adventurous. As you approach Deurali, the valley narrows and the mountains appear closer than ever, creating one of the most breathtaking parts of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Overnight stay at a tea house in Deurali with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

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D7

Day 7: Deurali → MBC → Annapurna Base Camp

The most awaited stage of the Annapurna Base Camp trek begins with a climb through dramatic mountain landscapes toward Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC). The valley opens into the breathtaking Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks and glaciers. After a short rest at MBC, continue the gradual ascent across rocky terrain to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. Reaching ABC is an unforgettable experience, with panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna surrounding you from every direction. The peaceful atmosphere, glowing glaciers, and massive Himalayan walls make this one of the world’s most iconic trekking destinations. Overnight stay at Annapurna Base Camp with all meals included.

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D8

Day 8: ABC → Bamboo → Jhinu Danda

Wake up early at Annapurna Base Camp and enjoy the unforgettable sunrise over the Himalayan peaks before beginning the descent. The trail retraces through Machapuchare Base Camp, Deurali, and forested valleys as the landscape gradually changes from snowy alpine terrain to lush greenery. Lower altitude brings easier breathing and a more relaxed pace on the way down. Instead of stopping at Bamboo, continue toward Jhinu Danda, a peaceful village famous for its natural hot springs beside the Modi Khola River. A warm soak after days of trekking is the perfect way to relax and recover. Overnight stay at Jhinu Danda with all meals included.

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D9

Day 9: Jhinu → Nayapul → Pokhara

The final day of the Annapurna Base Camp trek brings a scenic descent through traditional villages, terraced fields, and lush hillsides toward Siwai, where the road journey begins. From there, drive back to Pokhara and return to the comfort of the lakeside city after days in the mountains. The stunning Annapurna range across Phewa Lake serves as a lasting reminder of the incredible journey you completed. After reaching Pokhara, enjoy a relaxing evening with good food, a hot shower, and time to celebrate your trekking achievement. Breakfast and lunch are included before the trek officially concludes in Pokhara.

Health & Altitude Safety

At 4,130 m, the Annapurna Base Camp trek reaches altitudes that require genuine respect. The good news: the Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary we use is specifically designed with a gradual altitude gain profile that significantly reduces AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) risk. The bad news: no itinerary eliminates risk entirely — AMS can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level, and the Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty above 3,500 m is directly tied to how well your body acclimatizes.

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.

Inclusion & Exclusion

Complete cost breakdown — know exactly what’s covered in your Annapurna Base Camp trek package.

Inclusions

Exclusions

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:

Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Period
Refund
Cancellations up to 21 days prior to departure date
70% refund
Between 21 days to 14 days prior to departure
50% refund
Between 14 days to 10 days prior to departure
30% refund
Less than 10 days of departure
No refund — you can transfer your trek (same batch date & same trek) to your dear one.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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