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Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 12 Days

based on 8 reviews
Trip Facts
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Group Size 2 to 20 Pax
  • Max. Elevation 4130m
  • Start/End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Best Time Sep to Dec and Mar to May

Highlights

  • Arrival in Kathmandu: You will land in Kathmandu, the bustling capital city of Nepal.
  • Exploration in Pokhara: Visit the massive Fewa Lake and explore the intriguing cave in Pokhara.
  • Panoramic Views: Enjoy the magnificent vistas of the mystical Himalayas.
  • Mountain Peaks: Behold the outstanding views of Annapurna I (8091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8167 m), along with Annapurna South (7219 m) and Fishtail (6993 m).
  • Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in the lifestyle and culture of the Gurung and Magar people.
  • Scenic Villages: Discover the charm of the nice and clean villages of Ghorepani, Ghandruk, and Chhomrong.
  • Itinerary Overview: Follow a 12-day itinerary for the Annapurna Sanctuary.
  • Poon Hill Panorama: Witness the 360-degree views from Poon Hill (3210 m).
  • Natural Beauty: Traverse lush forests, encountering diverse flora and fauna.
  • Rhododendron Bloom: Experience the blooming rhododendron flowers in March and April.
  • Cultural and Natural Treasures: Enjoy the naturally and culturally beautiful trekking experience.
  • Village Life: Pass through many typical villages, experiencing local life.
  • Scenic Bridges: Cross many suspension bridges offering stunning views.
  • Highest Elevation: Reach the highest elevation at ABC, standing at, 4130 m.
  • Glacier Viewing: Observe the Annapurna Himal and its glacier from close quarters.
  • Daily Trekking: Plan for 6–7 hours of walking each day, soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

Overview of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a perfect 12-day journey, reaching (4130 m) and showcasing Annapurna's majestic peaks. Witness Annapurna-I, the 10th highest globally, and its impressive ice glacier up close. Known as Annapurna Sanctuary or ABC Trek, it's accessible via charming Gurung villages and suspension bridges. Explore the Ghorepani Poonhill route for breathtaking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manaslu, and more. Suitable for all ages, with customizable itineraries to fit your schedule.

The Annapurna Base Camp (Sanctuary) trek offers a classic and moderate experience, showcasing magnificent mountain views, lush nature, forests, rivers, terraced fields, and the unique lifestyle of the Gurung people. Situated in northwest Nepal, it's a naturally and culturally rich trekking route, with stunning crystal-clear mountains adding to its beauty. Our customized 12-day itinerary ensures a delightful trip, with various alternative routes leading to Annapurna base camp up to 5 days. 

The Annapurna base camp trekking starts with a 7-8-hour bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara or a 35-minute flight. Alternatively, you can opt for a private vehicle. After spending a night in Pokhara near the beautiful Fewa Lake, you'll drive to Nayapul the next day and begin trekking along picturesque riverbanks, passing villages like Birethanti, Hille, and Tikhedunga before reaching Ulleri, which involves a gradual ascent and two hours of steady uphill climb.

The following day takes you to the stunning Ghorepani, walking amidst lush rhododendron forests. Early the next morning, a one-hour ascent to Poonhill offers breathtaking views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Fishtail, and more during sunrise. Continuing the trek, you'll explore villages like Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, Deurali, MBC (Machhapuchhre Base Camp), and ABC over the next few days, surrounded by snow-capped peaks such as Annapurna I, South, Hiuchuli, Tent Peak, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Gandarba Chuli, and Fishtail. The close-up and scenic views are immensely gratifying and joyful.

After completing the trek at Annapurna sanctuary, you'll retrace your steps to Chhomrong village and then visit the natural hot spring in Jhinu Danda, where you can relax and bathe in the warm pool. The following day, after a few hours of walking, you'll take a vehicle back to Pokhara. The day after, you'll return to Kathmandu for your final departure. We can customize a shorter 6-day Annapurna base camp trek from Pokhara to Pokhara according to your schedule.

Our team includes professional and dedicated guides who provide nightly briefings about the next day's program, share news and insights about Nepal, and strive to meet your needs and ensure your satisfaction. Our porters are also attentive and helpful, ensuring a comfortable trekking experience. Don't hesitate to ask your guide questions—they're eager to share more information and make your journey memorable. Our goal is to turn your dream into reality: "Come as a guest, leave as a friend."

What kind of people and culture can we explore on the ABC trek?

The majority of residents along the trek are Gurung and Magar people, each with their own unique culture, customs, attire, language, religious practices, festivals, and way of life. The route includes charming villages like Ghorepani (a Magar village), Ghandruk, and Chomrong (a Gurung village). Many locals are farmers, cultivating various seasonal crops and vegetables alongside operating tourist lodges. Their hospitality is known for its kindness and warmth.

What are the mountain views we can see from the Annapurna base camp trek?

The Annapurna region is nestled in a picturesque hilly and mountainous landscape, boasting a plethora of beautiful and captivating peaks. Poon Hill (3210 m) stands out as a remarkable panoramic viewpoint, offering a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. Similarly, Annapurna Base Camp provides a breathtaking view of the massive Himalayan range.

The Mountains Viewing from Poonhill (3210 m) 

  • Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m/26795 ft).
  • Mt. Manaslu (8163 m/26782 ft)
  • Annapurna-I (8091 ft)
  • Annapurna-II: (7937 m/26065 ft)
  • Annapurna South (7219 m/23685 ft)
  • Fishtail (Machhapuchhre) (6993 m/22943 ft)
  • Hiuchuli 6441m / 21132ft
  • Mt Tukuche (6920 m/22704 ft)
  • Mt. Nilgiri (6860 m /22507 ft)

Breathtaking Mountain View from Annapurna Base Camp

  • Annapurna-I (8091 m/26546 ft)
  • Annapurna-III (7545 m/24754 ft)
  • Annapurna South (7219 m/23685 ft)
  • Fishtail (Machhapuchhre) (6993 m/22943 ft)
  • Hiuchuli (6441 m/21132 ft)
  • Tent Peak: (5695 m/18685 ft)

What kind of wildlife, flora, and fauna can we see in ABC Trek?

The Annapurna region falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, offering treks through enchanting Rhododendron and pine forests that are vital for preserving wildlife and diverse flora and fauna. During the trek, you may encounter various wild animals such as Yaks, monkeys, deer, mountain goats, blue sheep, wild boars, bears, snow leopards, foxes, red pandas, and a rich variety of bird species, including the National bird of Nepal, the Danfe (Monal), Lophophores, Kalij, and more.

Is it difficult to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderate, not excessively challenging, despite reaching 4130 m/13550 ft. It's advisable to proceed at a leisurely pace. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for all age groups—this trek welcomes both the young and the old alike.

Do we need any entry permits to trek to Annapurna base camp?

Sure, you need permits to visit Annapurna Base Camp. We'll help you get them. Your guide will handle the permits during the trek, and you'll get a souvenir afterward. The required permits are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.

  • Annapurna Conservation Areas Project, Nr. 3000/-
  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System), Nr. 2000/-
  • Poon Hill Entrance Permit., Nrs. 250/- 

When is the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp for trekking?

The ideal times for Annapurna Base Camp trekking are autumn (September to late December) and spring (March to May) due to clear weather, good temperatures, excellent visibility, and stunning mountain views. Winter (snowy and cold) and monsoon (rainy, cloudy, and poor visibility) are doable with proper planning for safety and success.

  • Autumn Season: September, October, November, and December.
  • Winter Season: late December, January, and February
  • Spring Season: March, April, and May
  • Monsoon Season: June, July, and August.

Cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

The Annapurna Base Camp trek costs US$695 per person for a 12-day full-board package. If you book Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels yourself, the cost is $625 each. Our regional rates ensure top-notch services. You can complete the trek in 5 to 6 days for a quick adventure. We offer affordable prices with a well-planned itinerary.

Cost, including service packages

  1. The airport picks up and drops off private vehicles.
  2. Kathmandu and Pokhara Hotel, 2–2 Nights The price is above-mentioned; Hotel includes or excludes
  3. Kathmandu to Pokhara and returning transportation as a comfortable tourist bus, but if you would like to take a flight or private vehicle, let me know. I can arrange any of your choice's services.
  4. Pokhara to Nayapul, and after the end of trekking in Siwi to Pokhara transportation
  5. Full board meals during the 8-day trek include lunch, dinner, and breakfast.
  6. One guide and porters and their full board wages as lodging, fooding, transportation, salary, insurance, etc.
  7. Needed Permits: ACAP and TIMS
  8. Seasonal fruits and some snacks—cookies, bars, etc.
  9. First aid kit bag

Something is excluded; please have a look at our cost details. There are services that are included and excluded.

Carry your important medicine

Certainly, carrying necessary medicines is crucial for trekking in remote areas like Annapurna Base Camp. Healthcare facilities are limited, so it's wise to bring your medications. Our company includes basic items like pain relievers and fever reducers in the first-aid kit, but for specific medical needs, please ensure you have your medication with you or purchase it in Kathmandu before the trek. Your health and safety are top priorities.

Itinerary

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Annapurna Base Camp Trek: A Perfect Itinerary for 12 Days It is from arrival to departure. If you like to do ABC trekking in a short time, we will arrange it according to your requirements. It is also possible to trek for 5 to 6 days. For further information, feel free to thank me.

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and a representative of Unique Nepal Adventure Trek will welcome you and transfer you to a nice Hotel in Kathmandu. A Manager will brief you in detail and check your trekking packing list.

  • Standard Hotel
  • 20 minute Drive
  • 1300m/4265ft

Kathmandu to Pokhara by comfortable tourist bus (7-8 hrs) (210 km) by flight (30 mins) or private vehicle (car, van, jeep, or helicopter) (6 hrs.) much more comfortable and stay overnight at a nice hotel in Pokhara near the lakeside.

  • Standard Hotel
  • 7 hrs Drive or 20 Minute Flight
  • 820m/2690ft

Pokhara to Nayapul by private vehicle, an hour and 20 minutes drive, then trek to Ulleri (1950 m), walking (5/6 hrs.), It is walking along beautiful villages and river banks, crossing suspension bridges. Day one: check post, first entry gate in Birethanti village; Lunch spots are everywhere; the guide will arrange a nice restaurant; and stay overnight at a comfortable lodge.

  • Comfortable Lodge
  • 1 hrs Drive and 6 hrs Walking
  • 1950m/6398ft

It is such a wonderful walk along Rhododendron forest, all the way uphill, crossing some villages like Banthanti and Nangethanti. Lunch would be at Nangethanti or directly at Ghorepani. February, March, and April are Rhododendron blooming seasons; all the jungle would be as colorful as red, pink, and white. 5/6 hrs. Walking is really delightful. Stay overnight at the lovely viewing Lodge.

  • Comfortable Lodge
  • 6 hrs Walking
  • 2874m/4930ft

Early in the morning, ascend to the best sunrise viewpoint, Poon Hill (3210 m/10532 ft), a 360-degree panoramic viewpoint. It will take one hour to ascend; you should get there before sunrise. Our professional expert guide will brief properly and recognize all of the crystal-clear mountains as Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Mt. Manaslu (8166 m).Annapurna: I 8091m, II 7937m, III 7555m, South 7219m, Fishtail 6993m, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Hiuchuli, etc.

Hence, return to the lodge, take your breakfast, finish your backpack, and trek on to another hill, Gurung Hill (3160 m), another couple of hours of ascending, and you will enjoy the silvery-clear mountain views. The trek will continue with ups and downs, lunch will be in Banthanti village, and camp is in Tadapani at 2610m, approximately 5–6 hours of walking. Stay overnight at a nice lodge.

  • Lodge
  • 6-7 hrs
  • 3210m/10532ft

It is wonderful walking first in the forest, walking downwards for a couple of hours, crossing the river, then sloping up till Chhomrong village. Most of the trail has ups and downs. There is a nice lunch spot in Chhomrong, then Sinuwa. If you arrive early in Chhomrong village, you can continue for one and a half hours to Sinuwa village. It is such a nice place to stay.

  • Comfort Lodge
  • 6/7 hrs
  • 2360m/7743ft

It is such a smooth walk along lush forestry. Not many villages, but crossing Bamboo, Dovan, Himalaya, and Deurali. It is not local big villages, just tourist lodges. Lunch will be at Dovan or Himalayan. Camp in Deurali along the huge Hinku Cave.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 6-7 hrs
  • 3230m/10598ft

It is moderate but altitude-adventurous as well, walking along open moraines. Getting to the bowl surrounding the huge Mountain’s base camp is on the bottom. You will get to lunchtime after 5 or 6 hours. Walking. MBC Machapuchhre base camp: drink tea and snacks, then easily arrive at base camp at lunchtime. Here is the huge Annapurna glacier part and a massive, breathtaking view of Annapurna I (8091 m), South Face (7219 m), and Fishtail (6993 m). The mystic view makes me less tired and more energetic. Stay overnight at a beautiful lodge in ABC.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 6 hrs Walking
  • 4130m/13550ft

Wake up early in the morning to see the thrilling sunrise and mountain views, then take breakfast, trek to Bamboo (2335 m) or Sinuwa (7 hrs) and walk onward down hills, and stay overnight at a lodge.

  • Lodge
  • 7 hrs Walking
  • 2360m/7743ft

Trek to Siwi (5 hours), then catch a vehicle to return to Pokhara. It is 2  hours of driving, and you can easily arrive in Pokhara late in the afternoon and stay at a nice Hotel in Pokhara.

It is your last night of trekking with your guide and porters. You can celebrate a happy ending, and you can share your happiness by giving tips to guides and porters. Celebrates having a wonderful dinner with the guide and porters. It will be wonderful, and you will remember it forever.

  • Standard Hotel
  • 7 hrs Walking and Drive
  • 820m/2690ft

Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus (7 hrs) (202 km) by flight (30 mins) short flight and stay overnight at a nice hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Standard Hotel
  • 7 hrs drive - 30 minute flight
  • 1300m/4265ft

A representative of Unique Nepal Adventure Trek will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport by private vehicle. We say not to say goodbye; we can say have a wonderful flight back to your sweet home and see you again.

  • Flying back to Sweet Home
  • Long Flying
  • 1300m/4265m

Trip Map

Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 12 Days map

Cost Details

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off via private vehicle.
  • Two nights' stay in a Kathmandu hotel with continental breakfast.
  • Two nights' stay in a Pokhara hotel with continental breakfast.
  • All meals during the trek (including lunch, dinner, and breakfast).
  • Accommodations in comfortable lodges during the trek.
  • One English-speaking government-trained and licensed trekking guide.
  • A porter for luggage carries two people. 
  • All expenses for guides and porters, including meals, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, and transportation (buses or flights),
  • Transportation options:
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus, including a flight (optional).
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus, including a flight (optional).
  • Pokhara to Nayapul and Siwi to Pokhara by local jeep.
  • Entry permits are required.
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) entry fees
  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) permits
  • Poon Hill entrance fees
  • Government and local area taxes, where applicable
  • First-aid kit provision
  • Seasonal fruits such as apples, bananas, oranges, etc.
  • Snacks like cookies, nuts, etc.

What's Excluded

  •  
  • Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport)
  • Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation and rescue services
  • Hot and cold drinks such as tea, coffee, mineral water, coke, Fanta, alcoholic beverages, etc.
  • Snacks like chocolate, biscuits, etc.
  • Additional services:
  • Hot water, hot shower, heater charge, battery charge, phone calls, and laundry services (if available)
  • Emergency evacuation and medical equipment
  • Hire equipment and personal items such as a sleeping bag, down jacket, hiking boots, toilet paper, etc.
  • In case of natural calamities (e.g., political unrest, flight cancellations due to weather, landslides, etc.), any extra charges will be borne by the travellers themselves.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (not included in the trek package)
  • Good Tips for guides, porters, and donations.

Good to Know

Packing List of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

It is recommended trekking gear or packing list of Annapurna base camp trek. You should pack according to mention the list. If you don’t have something, you can buy or rent in Kathmandu.

Head

  • Headlight with extra batteries
  • Sun hat, insulating hat
  • Warm hat, Scarf-Beany

Face

  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Face/body wipes

Hands

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Light gloves
  • Warm gloves
  • Windproof gloves

Clothing for Trekking

  • Warm enough Down Jacket
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Trekking T-shirts Few pairs
  • A couple of Trekking paints
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Polypropylene underwear’s
  • Under long fleece
  • Breathable underwear
  • Thermal layer
  • Gore Text Windproof Jacket
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers

Clothing for City

  • You can pack any clothes that you prefer to wear in the city.

Footwear

  • Trekking Boots
  • Sports shoes/Sandals
  • Thin & Thick Woolen socks
  • Trekking socks
  • Gaiter and crampons

Backpack

  • Duffel bag
  • Day pack
  • Rucksack
  • Rain cover

Essential Gear

  • 2-liter water bottle
  • Water purification as tables or drops or stereo pen
  • Trekking pole
  • Swiss knife
  • Warm enough Sleeping bag around -15
  • Watch or Alarm clock
  • Cellphone and charging cables

Toiletries

  • Quick dry towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Biodegradable Shampoo and soap
  • Deodorants
  • Female hygiene products
  • Moisturizer
  • Dental floss
  • Nail clippers
  • Small mirror
  • Toilet paper

Personal Accessories

  • Money
  • Camera
  • Passport, photocopy
  • PP size Photos

Extra items

  • Notebook and pen
  • Ear plugs
  • Energy/Protein bar
  • First aid kit

 

 

 

Client Reviews

Write a review
  • Y
    Yi KaiSingapore,July 25, 2019
    TripAdvisor

    Nepal ABC Trek

    Enthusiastic guide for our trip. Felt at ease when we were trekking the mountain. Thanks for guiding us!

     

  • Karan Nair
    Karan NairSingapore,July 17, 2019
    TripAdvisor

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek

    Jay is such a bubbly guy! During the trek he was always alert and looking out for our safety, making sure the terrain we were on was safe and if it wasn’t , ensured we got past the area along the safest route possible. Super friendly and positive even in the toughest weather we experienced. He was a real joy to be around and was excellent in guiding us along the trek. Also super knowledgeable when it comes to essentially all aspects of trekking. His great command of English also ensured we were always on the same page and constant communication allowed us to become friends! Our porter also happened to have family relations with jay and was also such a friendly Chap. They were very easy to get along with and by the end of the trip we felt like close buds! I would recommend Jay and his agency any day. No regrets.

     

tatp

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