Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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  • 12 days

  • Kathmandu/Kathmandu

  • people

The trek to the base camp of this magnificent mountain offers a classic trekking experience through the Himalayas, culture, and natural beauty. The trek starts from Pokhara, a city famous for its nickname, the “Lake City,” a peaceful gateway to the Annapurna region. The trek takes us through villages, farmlands, and waterfalls, giving us a glimpse of the culture of the local Gurung and Magar people. Along the trek, trekkers can enjoy the beauty of the rhododendron forests, which turn red, pink, and white during the spring season.

During the trek, trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri. The trek takes us through high-altitude landscapes, including meadows and moraines, and finally ends at the base of the mighty Annapurna, where the mountain peaks touch the sky.

The trek can be undertaken during any season of the year, except during the monsoon months of July and August, when heavy rainfall occurs. The trek offers a unique experience during each season. In the spring season, the trek offers the beauty of rhododendron flowers, while during the autumn season, the trek offers a clear sky and breathtaking mountain views. The trek is peaceful during the winter season, when the trails are covered by snow, and during the pre-monsoon season, when the trails are green. This trek is not only a trek, but a journey through nature, culture, and adventure, giving trekkers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of witnessing one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Minimum 02 pax sharing: Cost 990 US$ per person

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Kathmandu

    The flight into Kathmandu on a clear day is breathtaking. A spectacular view of the snow-capped Himalayas awaits you as you descend into Kathmandu. After your arrival, our representative and driver will receive you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Once you check into your hotel, you will be briefed on the various activities you are going to experience.

    Meals: None

    Stay: Hotel

  • Day 2
    Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour

    After having breakfast, go for a sightseeing tour around the city of Kathmandu. You can explore the historical and cultural sites of the city. You can start your sightseeing from Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you can find ancient palaces, temples, and the famous Kasthamandap, from which the city got its name.

    Then, move to Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. From the temple, you can get a panoramic view of the city and see the famous Buddha eyes.

    After that, move to Patan, one of the three royal cities in the valley. It is famous for its temples, artistic courtyards, and ancient architecture. You can explore the city by visiting Patan Durbar Square and the Patan Museum to learn more about the history and art of Nepal.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Stay: Hotel

  • Day 3
    Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Nayapul & Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m / 5–6 hrs)

    Your trek to Ghandruk begins with a scenic flight to Pokhara, a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu, giving you a glimpse of the majestic Himalayas, including Manasulu and Annapurna ranges.

    From Pokhara, you will drive to Nayapul, a starting point for your trek. The trek to Ghandruk begins here, taking you through a variety of landscapes, passing through villages and forests. As you continue your trek, you will find the trek more interesting, passing through scenic landscapes and mountain views. After 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach Ghandruk, a traditional village of ethnic Gurungs, famous for their hospitality and scenic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Stay: Lodge

  • Day 4
    Trek to Chhomrong (2,170 m / 5–6 hrs)

    Today’s trek starts with a steady climb to Kimrungdanda, which takes around an hour. During the climb, one can enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Gangapurna.

    From here, the trek leads to a steep descent to Kimrong Khola, followed by a challenging climb to Chere Danda. A small descent later, the trek is easier as we head towards Chhomrong.

    Chhomrong is a beautiful village located at 2,170 meters. It is set amidst the backdrop of the Annapurna range. With its picturesque views, Chhomrong is one of the most spectacular places to visit.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Stay: Lodge

  • Day 5
    Trek to Bamboo (2,310 m / 4–5 hrs)

    The trek for the day starts from Chhomrong and involves a steep descend of 2,500 stone steps down to Chhomrong Khola. After crossing the suspension bridge, the trail starts to ascend to Sinuwa, providing a wonderful view along the way. The trek further proceeds into the dense bamboo and rhododendron forests and reaches Kuldihar, followed by a gentle downhill trek to Bamboo.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Stay: Lodge

  • Day 6
    Trek to Deurali (3,230 m / 3–4 hrs)

    Today’s trek takes us further into the mountains as we trek through a cool and damp bamboo forest, ascending gently along a steady trail. Once we reach Himalaya Hotel, the forest begins to clear, and we are greeted with spectacular views of the glacial river flowing through the valley.

    Trekking further ahead, we ascend through a drier terrain to Hinku Cave, providing a respite from the forest. We then trek closer to the river and then ascend again to reach Deurali. This trek is one of the most scenic parts of our trek, with less vegetation, spectacular views of the valley, flowing rivers, and towering rock cliffs with beautiful waterfalls.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Stay: Lodge

    Annapurna Trekking View

  • Day 7
    Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m / 5- 6 hrs)

    We will trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) via Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC) today. The route begins with an easy walk through the river bed, followed by a steep climb to MBC. On the way, enjoy the breathtaking view of Machhapuchre, Hiuchuli, Annapurna South, and Annapurna I.

    The route from MBC opens to the Annapurna Sanctuary, with sparse vegetation, providing an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks. At ABC, enjoy the view of the massive south face of Annapurna, considered one of the best views on the entire route.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Stay: Lodge

  • Day 8
    Trek to Bamboo (2,310 m / 7–8 hrs)

    This day, we will descend from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo. The route is relatively easy as it’s mostly downhill. During this trek, you will have the privilege of seeing some of the most breathtaking views of the mountains, fields, and forests.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Stay: Lodge

  • Day 9
    Trek to Jhinu Danda (1,760 m / 5–6 hrs)

    From Bamboo, the trek goes to Kuldighar and then to Chhomrong Khola, followed by a trek to Chhomrong. The route then goes downhill to Jhinu Danda, where we will stay overnight. A short walk of 15 to 20 minutes from Jhinu Danda will take you to the hot springs.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Stay: Lodge

  • Day 10
    Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara (6 hrs trek / 1 hr drive)

    Today’s trek will take us from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, and we will have a chance to see the breathtaking views of the hills of western Nepal. Lunch will be served en route. After reaching Nayapul, we will board a vehicle and drive to Pokhara.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Stay: Hotel

  • Day 11
    Drive Back to Kathmandu (210 km / 6–7 hrs)

    After breakfast, we drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. The rest of the day is free to explore Kathmandu at your own pace – stroll through Thamel for souvenirs, revisit favorite sites, or simply rest at your hotel.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Stay: Hotel

  • Day 12
    Departure from Kathmandu

    After a delicious breakfast, you will be transferred to Kathmandu Airport for your onward flight. Our representative will be there to facilitate a smooth departure.

    As you bid farewell to Nepal, you take with you the sweet memories of the Himalayas, the breathtaking views of the mountains, and the experiences of your trekking adventure.

    Meals: Breakfast

Map

What's Included

  • Airport Assistance: Meet and assist service by our representative at arrival and departure.
  • Transfers: Airport and trekking transfers as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu: 03 nights stay in 3-star hotel on Bed and Breakfast basis.
  • Accommodation in Pokhara: 01 night stay in 3-star hotel on Bed and Breakfast basis.
  • Trek Arrangements: 06 nights stay in lodges on all-inclusive basis.
  • Trek Staff: Services of Sirdar and necessary porters.
  • Staff Wages & Insurance: Wages and insurance of Sirdar and porters.
  • Conservation Fees: Annapurna Conservation Area Project entry fees.
  • Trek Transfers: Transfers necessary during the trek.
  • Sightseeing & Transfers: Guided sightseeing tours and transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Monument Fees: Entry fees to monuments.
  • Guided Support: Services of a local English-speaking guide.
  • Surface Transfer: Pokhara to Kathmandu by road in a private vehicle.
  • Water Supply: Bottled water will be provided in the vehicle.
  • Taxes: Service tax included.
Not Included
  • International Airfares: Flights to and from Nepal.
  • Beverages: Any drinks, including soda, tea, coffee, and alcoholic drinks, unless specified.
  • Meals: Any meals not specified in the itinerary, except for meals during the trek.
  • Personal Expenses: Any expenses of a personal nature, including laundry, phone calls, internet, and shopping.
  • Price Escalations: Any additional costs arising from sudden fuel price increases, taxes, levies on hotels and transportation, and entrance fees. Any changes of this nature will be notified separately.
  • Other Costs: Any other costs not specified in the “Included in the Cost” section.
  • Personal Insurance: Insurance of any kind, including health and other travel insurance.
  • Tipping: Gratuities for guides, drivers, and other staff are not included.

Do's & Don'ts

NHV next heartily welcomes all of our valued guests. Either you are trekking in the mountains or touring the Kathmandu valley we suggest you that you treat the land and its people with care and respect. Below are some tips on how you can keep the environment clean and show appreciation for age-old culture and traditional religious beliefs. Nepal's Culture might be astonishing and surprising for newcomers therefore these tips are sometimes necessary.

  • To show gratitude and respect, use both of your hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It’s seen as a gesture of respect.
  • Remember not to point with a single finger but use a flat extended hand especially to indicate a sacred object or place.
  • Among Hindus, avoid touching women and holy men. In Nepal, people especially women, do not normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as "Namaste" greeting is preferable.
  • Do not eat with your left hand.
  • Never eat beef in front of Hindus and Buddhist because beef is strictly prohibited among both Hindus and Buddhists. Cows are sacred in Nepal.
  • Try not to step over or point your feet at another person, a sacred place or a heart.
  • Remove your shoes when entering a home, temple or monastery and leather items in Hindu temples and avoid smoking and wearing scant dress in religious settings.
  • Remember, some of the temples entrance may be prohibited for non-Hindus.
  • It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on way to shrines, especially if you are non-Hindu.
  • Do not offer food to a Nepalese after tasting it, nor eat from a common pot, and avoid touching your lips to a shared drinking vessel.
  • The sight of men holding hands is common, but men and women holding hands, and general acts of affection, are frowned upon. Do not do something that is totally alien to Nepalese culture.
  • Do walk around Stupas clockwise, so that the outer walls are always on your right. If you encounter a stone wall covered with Tibetan inscriptions, do the same: Walk past with the wall on your right (and don't take any of the stones).
  • Do not lose your cool. Raising your voice or shouting is seen as extremely bad manners in Nepal too and will only make any problem worse.
  • Do get a receipt of in authenticity when purchasing an antique replica. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to take it out of the country. And do not buy ivory or fur from endangered species. Your purchases encourage the trade in such illegal goods, and you would not be allowed to bring them back home anyway.
  • Do not give in to children who ask for just one rupee. Although a rupee is a small amount that anyone can spare, successful begging leads young children to drop out of school and take up panhandling as their trade. If you want to help, give to a trustworthy charity or a school.
  • Do not take photographs of locals, holy shrines and temples unless they have clearly given their consent.