Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Trip Overview
Trip Highlights
- Scenic drive past villages, farmlands, and beautiful mountain scenery.
- Experience and explore the Annapurna Base Camp (8091m), 10th highest mountain in the world
- Stunning panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Machapuchare (6,993 meters), and Hiunchuli (6,441 meters).
- Explore gorgeous springs and waterfalls in the Annapurna region of Nepal.
- Traverse through diverse landscape from lush subtropical forests to alpine meadows, rivers, and waterfalls.
- Enjoy the hospitality of friendly Gurung and Magar people, learn more of their culture, tradition and lifestyle.
Trip Description
Nepal’s Himalayas offer some of the most stunning and iconic trekking experiences in the world, with Mt. Everest and the Annapurna Range being significant attractions for adventurers and trekkers. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Panorama Trek stand out among one of the Nepal’s popular trekking routes due to their accessibility, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness.
The Annapurna region offers a remarkable trekking experience, catering to adventurers of various skill levels who wish to immerse themselves in the majestic Himalayan landscapes. Moreover, the panoramic views of the snowcapped peaks, such as the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Gandharvachuli, captivate trekkers and keep them spellbound throughout the journey.
The trek offers a diverse range of experience as it takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna region. This trek seamlessly blends the richness of nature with cultural immersion, providing breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Annapurna and Machapuchare.
The trail winds through dense, rhododendron-filled forests, picturesque villages, and terraced farmlands, giving you the opportunity to witness the traditional way of life in rural Nepal. Along the way, you’ll encounter various ethnic communities, such as the Gurung and Magar people, known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. The trek not only offers stunning vistas but also a chance to engage with the local culture.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins with a day of sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, where you can explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient temples, and historic sites. After soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu, the adventure continues with a scenic drive to Pokhara, a picturesque city nestled by the tranquil Phewa Lake. Pokhara serves as the gateway to all treks in the Annapurna region and is renowned for its stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The trek officially kicks off with a 3-hour drive from Pokhara to Samrung, where the real adventure begins. From Samrung, you’ll cross a suspension bridge and start your trek, ascending towards Jhinu Danda, known for its natural hot springs. The trail then leads you to the charming village of Chhomrong, perched on a hillside with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. As you ascend, you’ll journey through dense forests and the serene villages of Dovan and Himalaya, gradually approaching the iconic Annapurna Base Camp.
The trail traverses through a myriad of natural terrains, starting from subtropical regions and ascending towards alpine regions, presenting captivating sights of Machhapuchhre, Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Annapurna III peaks along the way. Whereas, Tadapani, Chomrong, and Bamboo serve as significant stopovers, adding to the overall experience and allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the local culture and scenery.
After staying one night at the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp, the return journey back is through the same route past Deurali, Himalaya, Dovan culminating the journey at Jhinu Danda. From Jhinu Danda, you will cross over the suspension bridge and hike to Samrung and board a private 4WD vehicle and drive to Pokhara. From Pokhara you have the option to drive/fly to Kathmandu, thus ending your adventure in the Annapurna region.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an unforgettable journey through some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, where towering peaks, lush forests, and serene villages create a truly immersive experience. Combined with the vibrant culture of the local communities, this trek is a must-do for both adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The trek is generally considered moderate in difficulty, making it accessible to both seasoned trekkers and beginners. However, it does demand prior preparation and a good level of physical fitness. Engaging in regular exercise, including hiking, cardiovascular workouts, and strength training, is important for building the stamina and strength required to take on the varying terrain and altitudes.
The best time to do this trek is during the spring and the autumn seasons: March to May is spring season, during the spring season the temperature and moderate, days are cooler setting a perfect condition for trekking, the skies are clearer providing excellent views. Moreover, this season offers blooming rhododendrons of different colors, making the landscape more vibrant and colorful.
September to November is autumn season, this season is considered to be the next best season for trekking in Nepal. The days are warmer and skies are clear with clear views of the snowcapped peaks. Both seasons offer unique experiences, with stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable trekking conditions.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: In Kathmandu
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Day 4: Drive from Pokhara to Samrung-Trek to Chhomrong
Day 5: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan
Day 6: Trek from Dovan to Deurali
Day 7: Trek from Deurali to ABC via MBC
Day 8: Trek from ABC to Bamboo
Day 9: Trek from Bamboo to Samrung & drive to Pokhara
Day 10: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 11: Departure
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu
Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Drive from Pokhara to Samrung & begin trek to Chhomrong
Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan
Trek from Dovan to Deurali
Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp
Trek from ABC to Bamboo
Trek from Bamboo to Samrung & drive to Pokhara
Fly to Kathmandu
Departure
Included
- All transfers by private vehicle.
- 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu in 3-4* category hotels.
- 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara in 3-4* category hotels.
- 5 nights’ accommodation in tea house lodge during the trek.
- Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with coffee/tea during the trek.
- One welcome or farewell dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
- 1 full day guided city tour in Kathmandu.
- English-speaking licensed trekking guide along with a porter (1 porter for every two trekkers).
- Round trip airfare between Kathmandu-Pokhara.
- First aid kit, duffel bag, and trekking map.
- Trekking staff accommodation, wages, meals, trekking gears, and insurance.
- All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (ACAP/TIMS card).
- All government tax and service charges.
Not included
- Nepal Visa.
- International airfare.
- Meals other than listed (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
- Bottled/boiled water, battery recharge and Wi-Fi and hot showers during the trek.
- Tips and gratuities to Guide, Porter and driver.
- Travel medical insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation.
- Personal trekking gears and equipment’s.
- Trip cancellation cost due to your health, weather condition, political situation, and any other unforeseen events.
- Any other expenses other than the listed above.