Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Best Season
Autumn / Spring
Duration
14 Days
Elevation
4,130m
Highlights
Annapurna Base Camp Natural amphitheatre of thirteen towering peaks.
Sunrise from Poon Hill Golden dawn over the Annapurna range.
Fishtail Peak Iconic sacred peak above the sanctuary.
Overview
Nestled deep in Nepal’s magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek delivers one of the most breathtaking Himalayan experiences on earth. At 4,130 metres, the base camp sits encircled by thirteen peaks above 7,000 metres, a natural amphitheatre of raw, overwhelming beauty. Trekking through terraced rice fields, rhododendron forests, and Gurung villages, every step reveals a landscape more dramatic than the last.
Preparation is essential before embarking on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The 12 to 14 day journey covers approximately 115 kilometres of diverse, challenging terrain. Train with long distance hikes and build cardiovascular endurance well in advance. Pack thermal layers, waterproof gear, and quality trekking boots. Altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and steep descents are real challenges. Hiring an experienced guide and obtaining your ACAP permit ensures a safe, rewarding, and culturally rich adventure.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek rewards every ounce of effort with pure, unfiltered magic. Sunrise over Annapurna I paints the glacier in shades of rose and gold, a vision that stops your breath entirely. The warmth of teahouse hospitality and mountain community bonds formed on this trail last a lifetime. Stop dreaming and start planning. The Annapurna Sanctuary is calling your name, answer it today.
Day 01: Arriving in Kathmandu and Transfer to the Hotel
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Rest and recover from your journey. In the evening enjoy a welcome dinner and full trek briefing where your guide walks you through the exciting adventure that lies ahead.
Day 02: Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara and Transfer to Hotel
Board a short 25 minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the gateway city to the Annapurna region. Transfer to your lakeside hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the charming shores of Phewa Lake. Your guide will complete final preparations and permit arrangements for the trek ahead.
Day 03: Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
Drive one hour from Pokhara to Nayapul and begin your Annapurna Base Camp Trek on foot. Trek through terraced farmlands, riverside trails, and traditional Gurung villages. Arrive at the small hillside settlement of Tikhedhunga, your first overnight stop on this magnificent Himalayan journey. Approximately 4 to 5 hours of walking.
Day 04: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860m)
A steep but deeply rewarding climb through dense rhododendron and oak forests. Cross the charming village of Ulleri with its famous stone staircase. As you gain altitude the forests thicken and mountain views begin to emerge. Arrive at Ghorepani, a popular hilltop village with stunning Annapurna and Dhaulagiri panoramas. Approximately 6 to 7 hours of walking.
Day 05: Early Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) and Trek to Tadapani
Rise before dawn for the iconic sunrise hike to Poon Hill, one of the most celebrated viewpoints in all of Nepal. Watch the first light of day illuminate Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and dozens of Himalayan giants. Descend back to Ghorepani then continue trekking through forests to Tadapani. Approximately 6 hours of walking.
Day 06: Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Trek through beautiful rhododendron forests with sweeping views of Annapurna South and the iconic fishtail peak Machhapuchhre. Descend steeply into the Modi Khola valley before climbing back up to the welcoming Gurung village of Chhomrong, the last major village before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary. Approximately 5 to 6 hours of walking.
Day 07: Chhomrong to Dobhan (2,600m)
Descend the famous Chhomrong stone staircase and cross the Chhomrong Khola river before climbing steadily through bamboo and rhododendron forests. Pass through the small settlements of Sinuwa and Kuldi before arriving at Dobhan, a quiet riverside camp deep within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Approximately 5 to 6 hours of walking.
Day 08: Dobhan to Deurali (3,230m)
Trek deeper into the dramatic Annapurna Sanctuary through thick bamboo forests and past roaring mountain streams. Pass through Himalaya Hotel and Hinku Cave, two famous teahouse stops on this route. The landscape grows wilder, more remote, and increasingly spectacular with every step forward. Approximately 5 hours of walking.
Day 09: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
The most anticipated day of the entire trek. Trek through Machhapuchhre Base Camp at 3,700 metres and continue upward into the sacred Annapurna Sanctuary. Arrive at Annapurna Base Camp, completely encircled by thirteen peaks above 7,000 metres. The scale and silence of this natural mountain amphitheatre is absolutely unforgettable. Approximately 5 to 6 hours of walking.
Day 10: Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp and Descend to Bamboo (2,310m)
Wake early to witness the extraordinary sunrise over Annapurna I, the tenth highest mountain on earth. Rose and gold light floods the glacier as the peaks ignite one by one. Soak in this magical moment before beginning the long descent back through Deurali and Hinku Cave to Bamboo. Approximately 7 hours of walking.
Day 11: Bamboo to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Continue descending through lush bamboo groves and rhododendron forests, retracing your steps through the beautiful lower sanctuary trail. Cross the Chhomrong Khola and climb back up the famous stone staircase to reach Chhomrong village once more. Celebrate your achievement over a warm meal and well earned rest. Approximately 5 hours of walking.
Day 12: Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda (1,780m)
Trek down from Chhomrong through terraced fields and traditional Gurung settlements to the peaceful village of Jhinu Danda. Reward your tired legs with a relaxing soak in the famous Jhinu natural hot springs, fed by geothermal waters beside the Modi Khola river. A truly perfect way to end your trekking days. Approximately 3 to 4 hours of walking.
Day 13: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara
Complete the final stretch of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek on foot to Nayapul, where your trek officially concludes. Board a vehicle for the scenic one hour drive back to Pokhara. Spend the evening celebrating at a lakeside restaurant in Pokhara with your guide and fellow trekkers. Approximately 3 hours of walking.
Day 14: Fly Pokhara to Kathmandu and Final Departure
Board your morning flight back to Kathmandu. Spend any remaining time exploring Thamel for last minute souvenirs, handicrafts, and gifts. Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward international flight. You leave Nepal forever changed, carrying the mountains, the people, and an achievement that will inspire you for a lifetime.