The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, is one of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in Nepal. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this trek takes you through landscape of majestic peaks, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural experiences. From towering snow-capped mountains to terraced farmlands, the Annapurna region offers an awe-inspiring journey to one of the most iconic base camps in the world. Whether you’re an avid trekker or a nature enthusiast, trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) promises an unforgettable adventure offering a balanced blend of adventure and comfort.
The trek typically begins in Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most scenic cities, and ascends gradually through picturesque villages, dense rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows. The ultimate goal is to reach the Annapurna Base Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,130 meters, where trekkers are greeted with a panoramic view of the Annapurna Massif, including peaks such as Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchre (Fishtail Mountain).
One of the highlights of the trek is the chance to experience Machhapuchre Base Camp, a pristine location offering close-up views of Machhapuchre (6,993 meters), a sacred peak that remains unclimbed to this day.
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is more than just a physical journey. It offers trekkers a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique culture and traditions of the Gurung and Magar communities, as well as to witness the raw beauty of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Unlike some other treks in Nepal, the ABC trek is relatively shorter but still provides a diverse and dramatic landscape, making it perfect for those who want an intense Himalayan experience without committing to a lengthy expedition. The trek is also famous for its teahouse accommodations, where trekkers can enjoy comfortable lodging and hearty meals, making it accessible for trekkers of varying experience levels. Whether you’re hiking solo, with a group, or on a guided trek, the Annapurna Sanctuary welcomes adventurers from around the world.
The journey to Annapurna Base Camp typically begins from the lakeside city of Pokhara, known for its stunning views of the Annapurna Range and serene lakes such as Phewa Lake. From Pokhara, trekkers travel to Nayapul or Phedi, which serves as the trailhead for the trek. As you ascend, you’ll pass through several traditional Nepali villages such as Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Landruk, and Jhinu Danda. These villages offer not only a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people but also panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The terraced farmlands and stone-paved trails wind through these settlements, where you can interact with the local Gurung and Magar communities, enjoying their hospitality, culture, and cuisine.
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is famous for its lush green forests, particularly the rhododendron forests that come alive in spring, creating vibrant landscapes. As you ascend, the forests gradually give way to alpine meadows and ultimately barren landscapes as you approach Machhapuchre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.
One of the key landmarks on this trek is the Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC), located at an altitude of 3,700 meters. MBC offers spectacular views of the sacred Machhapuchre Peak, a mountain that remains unclimbed out of respect for its religious significance in the local culture. The base camp also provides trekkers with an opportunity to rest and acclimatize before heading further to Annapurna Base Camp.
After trekking through rugged terrain and ascending above the tree line, you’ll finally arrive at Annapurna Base Camp, situated at 4,130 meters. The base camp is surrounded by towering peaks, forming a natural amphitheater that will leave you speechless. From here, trekkers can enjoy unobstructed views of Annapurna I, the 10th highest peak in the world, along with Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchre. The sense of accomplishment and the stunning vistas make the trek to ABC truly worth every step.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital, you will be greeted with a mix of vibrant culture, ancient history, and the ever-present backdrop of the Himalayas. Kathmandu Valley is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Boudhanath Stupa. This day is typically spent settling in, exploring the city, and preparing for the trek ahead. If time allows, a stroll through the famous Thamel district provides a great opportunity to pick up any last-minute trekking gear.
After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, following the Prithvi Highway along rivers, terraced farmlands, and lush valleys. As you approach Pokhara, you’ll begin to catch glimpses of the snow-capped Annapurna and Machhapuchre peaks. Pokhara is a tranquil lakeside city, surrounded by natural beauty, with highlights such as Phewa Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and Devi’s Falls. This day offers a relaxing introduction to the trek, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of Pokhara before the adventure begins.
The trekking journey begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. The first leg of the trek follows a gentle path through small villages, terraced fields, and lush forests. After passing Birethanti, you’ll gradually ascend towards Ghandruk, one of the most picturesque Gurung villages in the region. Ghandruk offers spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchre. The village is also home to the Gurung Museum, where you can learn about the local culture and traditions. The charming stone-paved lanes of Ghandruk, along with its traditional houses and warm hospitality, make it an ideal first stop on the trek.
Leaving Ghandruk, the trail gradually ascends through lush forests and terraced fields, providing magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. You’ll descend to the Kimrong Khola River and then begin a steep ascent towards Chhomrong, the largest village in the region and a major stopping point on the trek. Chhomrong is nestled on a high ridge and offers stunning panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchre. The village is known for its well-maintained teahouses and warm hospitality. From here, the Annapurna Sanctuary seems within reach as the peaks loom closer, setting the stage for the next leg of the journey.
The trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo is a descent followed by a steady climb. You’ll begin by descending thefamous Chhomrong stone steps, crossing the Chhomrong Khola via a suspension bridge before ascending through a dense bamboo forest. As you progress, the vegetation changes from cultivated fields to subtropical forests filled with bamboo, oak, and rhododendron. The lush greenery creates a serene environment as you approach Bamboo, a small settlement located amidst the forest. This section of the trail is relatively quieter, providing an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Annapurna region.
The trail continues through dense forests, with occasional clearings offering glimpses of the surrounding peaks. As you ascend higher, the air becomes cooler, and the landscape begins to change from dense forests to alpine terrain. You’ll pass through Dovan and Himalaya, two small settlements that serve as resting points for trekkers. After crossing a small stream, the path leads to Deurali, a high-altitude settlement with a stunning view of the Hinku Cave and the surrounding valleys. Deurali marks the transition from the lush lower altitudes to the stark, barren landscapes of the higher Himalayan region.
This is one of the most exciting days of the trek as you ascend to both Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC) and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). The trail becomes steeper and rockier as you approach MBC, where you’ll be greeted with jaw-dropping views of Machhapuchre and the surrounding peaks. After a brief rest, you continue the ascent to Annapurna Base Camp, passing through alpine meadows and moraines. Upon reaching ABC, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The sheer grandeur of the snow-capped mountains, combined with the sense of achievement, makes this a truly unforgettable moment. You’ll spend the night at ABC, allowing you to soak in the spectacular views during sunset and sunrise.
After enjoying a mesmerizing sunrise over the Annapurna range, you begin the descent back down the trail. The return journey retraces your steps, offering a different perspective on the landscapes you passed through on the ascent. As you descend from the alpine terrain to the dense forests below, the changing environment creates a sense of progression and variety. The day’s trek ends at Bamboo, where you’ll rest for the night in the familiar setting of the bamboo forest.
The trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda begins with an ascent back to Chhomrong, followed by a steep descent towards Jhinu Danda. Jhinu Danda is renowned for its natural hot springs, located a short walk from the village. After days of trekking through rugged terrain, a relaxing dip in the hot springs offers a perfect way to soothe tired muscles and rejuvenate your body. Jhinu Danda is also a great spot to enjoy the tranquility of the
surrounding environment, with the rushing river below and the towering mountains in the distance.
On the final day of trekking, you’ll descend from Jhinu Danda and follow the trail along the Modi Khola River. The path leads through lush forests and terraced fields, passing by several small villages as you make your way back to Nayapul. The trek ends at Nayapul, where you’ll catch a ride back to Pokhara. After several days of trekking, returning to the comforts of Pokhara feels rewarding, and you’ll have time to relax and reflect on the incredible journey. Pokhara offers plenty of opportunities to unwind, whether it’s enjoying a lakeside meal or visiting one of the city’s many attractions.
After a restful night in Pokhara, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu, following the same scenic route along the Prithvi Highway. The return journey offers one last chance to admire the stunning countryside of Nepal, with rivers, hills, and terraced farmlands lining the road. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you’ll have the evening to explore the city, do some last-minute shopping, or simply relax after the trek.
On the final day, you’ll bid farewell to Nepal as you prepare for your departure. If you have extra time, you may choose to explore more of Kathmandu or visit nearby attractions such as Kathmandu Durbar Square or Bouddhanath Stupa. As your adventure comes to an end, the memories of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek—the majestic mountains, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences—will remain with you forever.
The best time to embark on the Annapurna Base Camp trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer the most stable weather, clear skies, and optimal trekking conditions. During spring (March to May), the trail is adorned with blooming rhododendrons, making the trek exceptionally beautiful, while the post-monsoon season provides crisp air and excellent visibility of the snow-capped peaks.
Trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall, which can make trails slippery and dangerous. However, the landscapes are lush and vibrant during this time, and there are fewer trekkers, providing a more solitary experience. The winter months (December to February) offer clear skies, but the temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes. Trekking during winter requires more preparation, including adequate clothing and gear to combat the cold.
Before starting your trek, you will need to secure the necessary permits for trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area. These include:
Both permits are essential and must be carried with you at all times during the trek.
The teahouse accommodation along the Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of its most appealing features. Teahouses offer basic yet comfortable lodging, along with hearty meals that fuel you for the journey ahead. Most teahouses provide twin-sharing rooms with simple beds and blankets. As you ascend higher, the amenities may become more basic, but the warmth and hospitality of the hosts remain constant.
Meals are typically served three times a day at the teahouses. The menu is varied, with options ranging from traditional Nepali dal bhat (rice with lentil soup) to international dishes such as pasta, noodles, and pancakes. We recommend sticking to the local dishes as they are often the freshest and most nutritious, providing the energy needed for trekking at high altitudes.
The ideal times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the best weather, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making the trek more enjoyable. Spring is famous for blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crisp mountain views after the monsoon rains have cleared the skies. Trekking during winter is possible but requires preparation for colder temperatures and occasional snow.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with average fitness. The trek involves walking 5-7 hours a day, with some steep ascents and descents. While no technical climbing is required, altitude can be a challenge as you reach 4,130m at the base camp. Proper acclimatization and preparation are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide is highly recommended. A local guide provides valuable knowledge about the route, and local culture, and ensures safety in case of unexpected challenges, such as altitude sickness or weather changes. Additionally, guides can help with navigation and communicate with locals, enriching the experience. For a worry-free experience, many trekkers opt for a guide and porter service.
Trekkers need two main permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Both permits can be
obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These are essential for accessing the Annapurna region and ensuring your safety on the trek, as they help authorities track trekkers in case of emergencies.
The trek offers teahouse accommodation, which consists of basic lodges run by locals along the route. These teahouses provide a simple room with twin beds, and the facilities vary from place to place. Some villages offer rooms with en-suite bathrooms, while others may have shared facilities. Hot showers are available at a cost in many places, and meals are usually served in a communal dining area with a wide selection of local and Western dishes.
The highest point on the trek is Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). While the risk of altitude sickness is present, proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually can reduce the chances of illness. Symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness should not be ignored. If symptoms worsen, it is important to descend and seek medical attention. It’s advised to take rest days and listen to your body to avoid complications.
