Annapurna Base Camp Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
9 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
13,550 feet (4,130 meters)
GROUP SIZE
5-6
TREK DISTANCE
75 Km Approx
BASECAMP
Nepal
BEST TIME
March | April | May | September
PICKUP POINT
Pokhara | Nepal
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp or popularly known as ABC Trek is a moderate to difficult trek spanning over 9 days taking you to the base of Mt Annapurna in Nepal which is at an altitude of 13550 feet or 4130 meters above sea level. The total trek distance is about 75 kms and the 9 day trek journey offers one with a lifetime experience as one traverses the various terrains, unforgettable landscapes and the unique culture of the Gurgung or Tamu tribal people who are believed to be of Tibetan decent.
The trek offers mesmerizing views esp during sunrise and sunset of Annapurna Massif, Machapuchare and HiIunchuli peaks making it an unforgettable and rewarding trip. As Mt Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain peak in the world reaching its base camp is a thrill of its own. The ABC Trek is best undertaken in the spring summer months of March to May and then after monsoon in September before the onset of winters. Since it’s a bit challenging and a long duration trek it is suitable for trekkers who have prior experience in trekking and are physically fit to reach such a high altitude.
History of Annapurna
The Annapurna Sanctuary found n the foothills of the mountain has a significant mythological significance as in the olden days it was considered to be a pilgrimage route for not only Buddhists but also Hindus due to the various deities and their temples found in the region. The local tribal people also used to believe that the are was rich in Gold and other precious jewels as left behind by the Nagas in ancient times which were worshiped as serpent Gods. Not only this but the entrance to the peak of Machapuchare is where it was believed to be home of Lord Shiva and people living far off would take the snowfall to be the incense burning by Lord Shiva as it would have appeared from a distance. This route also served as a trade route between Nepal and Tibet. It was only in late 1950s that trekking was allowed along this route. And now a lot of facilities like lodges, rest rooms and small local restaurants are found along the way for the ease of the travelers.
Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Annapurna Sanctuary: Situated at an altitude of over 4000 meters is Annapurna Sanctuary, which is an oval-shaped glacial basin that is surrounded by the Annapurna mountain ranges and the Machapuchare and Hiunchuli peaks. Due to its location and its surrounding high mountain peaks, the Annapurna Sanctuary receives sunlight only for a few hours in the day in the peak summer months.
- Varied Landscapes: The trek offers one to experience a variety of terrains. The slopes facing the south direction are filled with dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron, while those on the north side have a dry, desert-like terrain, as they receive less sunlight and rainfall. Along with the landscapes, the breathtaking views of surrounding mountain peaks, especially the fishtail-like appearance of Machapuchare, are another highlight while on a trek.
- Natural Hot Springs: Whilst trekking, one comes across a natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda, which will serve as a much-needed relief to all trekkers.
- Immerse in Local Culture: by meeting the local Gurung people, one can get an insight into their culture and lifestyle and at the same time enjoy local hearty meals rooted in and inspired by Nepalese and Tibetan culture. During the trek, one can even stay at the local homestays, by which they get a feel of the traditional architecture of homes and the lifestyle of local people.
Things To Do In Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Whilst on the trek, one can enjoy the Annapurna Sanctuary, which is a high-altitude, oval-shaped glacial basin surrounded by gigantic mountain ranges of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli peaks.
The varied landscapes of dense forests, dry deserts, and steep steps and rocky terrain, all the while getting the breathtaking views of the gorgeous mountain peaks.
After the hard and enduring trek, taking a dip in the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda will make all the tiredness and stress fade away. The insight into the culture and lifestyle of the local Gurung people by interacting with them during homestays and treks makes the trek a memorable experience.
Apart from these, which you will find en route your trek, one can also explore the tourist capital of Nepal, Pokhara, known for its vibrant architecture, World Peace Pagoda, Mahendra and Bat Caves, and scenic Phewa Lake.
Definitely recommend exploring the villages of Ghandruk and Chhomrong, where you can soak in the history and culture of the villagers, how they live, how they go about their daily activities, how they perform pujas at the local temples, and how they are a part of their traditional Gurung dance. While there you must enjoy the simple yet highly nutritious Nepalese local delicacies, an experience you won't get to enjoy elsewhere.
Day 1: Reach Pokhara from Kathmandu
Day 2: Drive from Pokhara to Lower Ghandruk. Trek to Komrong
Day 3: Trek from Komrong to Chhomrong
Day 4: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan
Day 5: Trek from Dovan to Machapuchare Base Camp
Day 6: Trek from Machapuchare Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp
Day 7: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
Day 8: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu
Day 9: Trek from Jhinu to Syauli Bazaar. Drive to Pokhara
At Himalaya Shelter, we believe in safety and comfort of trekkers to be the most important consideration. By handling your pickup and drops to planning your entire literary looking at your comfort levels, everything can be customized and looked after with ease. An experienced tour guide and trek leader will be present with you for the entire duration of the trek, helping you navigate any challenges that can arise during the trek. Even if there is any special dietary requests or technical support that is required everything can be customized and taken into consideration to give you an absolutely fulfilling trekking experience. Himalaya Shelter won't add any other participant to your group so that your trekking journey will be pleasurable and joyous. Any special and offbeat requests like a sunrise hike or experiencing a local meal while on a trek, everything will be arranged for you during your trek with us.
Prior permits of ACAP & TIMS CARD will be arranged by us for you on furnishing the necessary essential documents.
ABC Trek is a moderate to difficult trek spanning over 9 days, taking you to the base of Mt. Annapurna in Nepal, which is at an altitude of 13550 feet, or 4130 meters, above sea level. The total trek distance is about 75 km. One must be comfortable walking a minimum of 5-7 kms daily, and not only that, but at some places there are also steep steps, which can be tough on a person, especially when you carry a backpack with you and are at that altitude. Thus proper prior training becomes crucial before undertaking the ABC Trek. Drinking lots of water before and during the trek will also help in getting acclimatized.
The ABC Trek is best undertaken in the spring and summer months of March to May and then after the monsoon in September and October before the onset of winter.
During this period the weather is clear, and the climate and temperatures are pleasant and comfortable, making the trek comfortable. In summer months the daytime temperatures can be between 10 and 20 degrees C, while the nighttime can fall to single digits also. At higher altitudes one can even encounter some snow, especially in early spring months when the snow has not completely melted. The spring season also offers beautiful views of the blooming flowers and the lush green meadows.
ABC Trek is not advisable during monsoon months from June to early September, when heavy rainfall can cause the terrain to be slippery and risky. Similarly, in winter months heavy snowfall can cause the region to be inaccessible, and the temperatures fall below 0 degrees, making trekking extremely difficult and risky.
The starting point of the ABC Trek is Pokhara in Nepal. One can reach Pokhara from Kathmandu either by flight or by road. The road distance between Kathmandu and Pokhara is about 200 km and takes about 5-6 hrs. The flight duration between Kathmandu and Pokhara is about 25 minutes only. Kathmandu is an international airport well connected with flights from all over the world. Trekkers can be picked up by a private vehicle from either Kathmandu or Pokhara to continue on your trek ahead. Alternatively, one can also find private taxis and buses from Kathmandu to take you to Pokhara.
The most important thing before you start the trek is to carry all the necessary travel permits and important documents needed for verification and authentication. Apart from permits, a valid passport, visas, travel and health insurance, and a physical fitness certificate are a must.
Like with all treks, a good, sturdy, comfortable, and durable weather proof backpack is a must, which will hold all your clothing items. Even in summer months, the temperature can get chilly; hence, layered clothing is recommended. So don’t forget to pack in your thermals, waterproof jackets, thick socks, woolen caps, and gloves. Along with clothing items, good-quality trekking shoes are vital during long treks, which will avoid giving you any blisters and sores. Do pack a torch, headlamp, and sunglasses along with sunscreen. A basic first aid kit should also be included in your backpack, which can come in handy anytime. If you need any specific medication, make sure you carry it with you at all times. Water purifying tablets, a reusable water bottle, and some protein and energy bars and nuts should also be carried.
Travel Tips and Safety Guidelines
- As with any high-altitude trek, physical fitness is vital. Start your training a few months before and include climbing steps in your fitness routine, which will help when you do your ABC Trek.
- Carrying essential and proper gear is extremely vital. A sturdy backpack, comfortable shoes and layered and comfortable clothing is must.
- Essential documents like passport, visas, and travel and health insurance are a must. Prior permits like ACAP & TIMS cards need to be obtained before undertaking the ABC Trek.
- It is advisable that you do the trek in a group under the guidance of an experienced and trained group leader and follow all the necessary instructions given whilst on a trek.
- Since it’s a high altitude trek keeping well hydrated and hiking slowly and not rushing the day will go a long way avoiding altitude sickness.
- Try and make the trek as sustainable as possible by following a No Trace Policy and using as many reusable and biodegradable products as possible.
- Try and experience the local culture by respecting them and indulging and supporting them by staying in local homestays and eating the local traditional delicacies prepared by them.
It is essential that you obtain prior permits before you trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. Without these, one will not be able to go on a trek. There are two permits needed for ABC Trek—ACAP & TIMS CARD. ACAP stands for Annapurna Conservation Area Project, which is required to enter the restricted area, and the fees for it go toward maintenance of the region. The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) CARD is basically for travelers' safety, containing all the essential information of the traveler. Documents needed to obtain these permits include a passport-size photograph, a valid visa, and a passport, along with the trek itinerary and the permit fees. One can obtain these either directly from the concerned office at Pokhara, or we at Himalaya Shelter can obtain the same for you beforehand to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Day 1: Reach Pokhara from Kathmandu
Duration: 7 hours
Altitude: 2,760 ft
Driving Distance: 215 km
Highlights: The drive through the rolling hills of Nepal. The lakeside near the hotel.
Reach Pokhara from Kathmandu, which is approximately 215 km away. This will take about 5-7 hrs. Once you arrive, you will be taken to your hotel for an overnight stay. Eat dinner and get the much-needed rest before the main trek starts the next day.
Day 2: Drive from Pokhara to Lower Ghandruk. Trek to Komrong
Drive Duration: 3-4 hours
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Altitude Gain: 4,620 ft (2,760 ft to 7,380 ft)
Difficulty: Trek gradient is moderate.
Early morning, after a hearty breakfast, drive to Lower Ghandruk. It will take about 3-4 hrs to reach, and here you will find a variety of tea houses, which will later become a part of the trek. From Ghandrukh the trek actually starts. First you will descend gradually to Kyunri Khola, which is a stream. As you cross the bridge on the stream, you start your hike from the right side, slowly ascending up for an hour to reach Komrong. The entire hike is for about 3-4 hrs. Overnight at Komrong.
Day 3: Trek from Komrong to Chhomrong
Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude Loss: 260 ft (7,380 ft to 7,120 ft)
Difficulty: Starts with a short gradual descent for about an hour. This is followed by an ascent all the way to Chomrung. You can refill your water bottles at tea houses on the way.
Highlights: Views of majestic mountains
Start your day with breathtaking views, and then from Komrong descend towards Kimrong, where once you cross a small stream, you will need to ascend to reach Chomrong. The villages are filled with tea shops where you can refill your water and purchase any last-minute forgotten items. There is also a checkpointhere where your permits will be verified further. In the entire day you would have trekked for about 5-6 hrs.
Day 4: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan
Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude Gain: 1,340 ft (7,120 ft to 8,460 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate-difficult. Initial descent for 20 minutes followed by a steep ascent for about an hour. Gradual ascent for half an hour followed by a steep 30 minute descent. Finish with a 2 hour ascent to Dovan. You can refill your water bottles at tea houses on the way.
This day will be an intense day in terms of trekking and altitude gain. There is both ascent and descent today. You start from Chomrong and overnight at one of the lodges at Dovan. The highlight is the gorgeous hike while traversing the beautiful rhododendron forests along the way.
Day 5: Trek from Dovan to Machapuchare Base Camp
Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude Gain: 3,675 ft (8,460 ft to 12,135 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate-difficult. Begins with a gradual ascent. Proceeds in a series of gradual and steep ascents. You can refill your water bottles at tea houses on the way.
Highlights: View of the fishtailed mountain.
Another day of intense climbing with over 3500 feet of altitude gain. This day there will be a lot of steep but gradual ascents. At the end of a good 6-7 hrs of gruesome hike, you will finally reach Machapuchare base camp, where the fishtail peak of Machapuchare mountain is clearly visible. Overnight here. The entire trek region is rocky, plus there is a big altitude jump, so the hike shouldn't be rushed and should be undertaken extremely gradually with plenty of breaks to drink water.
Day 6: Trek from Machapuchare Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp
Duration: 2 hour
Altitude Gain: 1,415 ft (12,135 ft to 13,550 ft
Difficulty: Moderate. Steep ascent in the beginning for about 1 km after which the trail ascends gradually to reach ABC. You can refill your water bottles at tea houses on the way.
Highlights: The first light on the Annapurna massif.
From Machapuchare base camp, start early while taking in the beautiful sunrise. A steep ascent for about an hour only and then a gradual descent to reach Annapurna
Base Camp. During the day the hike isn't as gruesome, and the altitude jump is about 1400 feet only. The first sight of the Annapurna peaks makes the entire gruesome hike memorable. Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp.
Day 7: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
Duration: 8-9 hours
Altitude Loss: 5,875 ft (13,550 ft to 7,675 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate-difficult. Mix of steep and gradual descent, tracing the same route back. You can refill your water bottles at tea houses on the way.
Highlights: Steep descent through the Annapurna Conservation Area
This day will be the longest day in terms of total hiking duration. One will hike for a good 8-9 hours on day 7. The same route that you took to ascend you will take down to descend all the way to Bamboo. There will be a mix of ascents and stretches of descent.
Day 8: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu
Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude Loss: 1,905 ft (7,675 ft to 5,770 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate-difficult. Steep ascent for about 45 minutes followed by steep descent for about 2 hours. Another steep descent for about 45 minutes followed by a steeply descending trail all the way. You can refill your water bottles at tea houses on the way.
Highlights: The hotsprings at Jhinu.
On day 8 one will descend from Bamboo to Jhinu. The total duration on day 8 will be for about 6-7 hrs. The highlight is when you reach Jhinu and enjoy the hot springs. The dip in this natural hot spring will make one instantly relaxed and take away all the soreness of the entire hike.
Day 9: Trek from Jhinu to Syauli Bazaar. Drive to Pokhara
Trek Duration: 4 hours | Drive Duration: 2-3 hours
Altitude Loss: 1,190 ft (5,770 ft 4,580 ft)
Difficulty: Easy-moderate. Steep descent for about 30 minutes followed by gradual ascent.
Highlights: The colourful display of butterflies after Jhinu.
On the final day of the trek, one must trek from Jhinu to Syauli Bazaar for about 4 hrs. The descent is not difficult, and on reaching here, you can then drive for about 2-3 hrs back down to Pokhara, where the trek ends with memories and experiences of a lifetime.
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Trek Inclusions
- Transport support from Pokhara to Pokhara (Pick-up location: Pokhara, Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am).
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals. (INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek. - Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification). There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Trek Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC. - Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 600 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
ABC Trek is a moderate to difficult trek spanning over 9 days, taking you to the base of Mt. Annapurna in Nepal, which is at an altitude of 13550 feet, or 4130 meters, above sea level. The total trek distance is about 75 km.
The trek distance is 75 km, and it is at an altitude of over 14000 feet; due to this, it is not recommended for beginners. Trekkers with prior trek experience will be able to undertake this trek with ease.
It is essential that you obtain prior permits before you trek the Annapurna Base Camp. Without these, one will not be able to go on a trek. There are two permits needed for ABC Trek—ACAP & TIMS CARD. At Himalaya Shelter these permits can be obtained for you by us by providing us with necessary essential documents.
The ABC Trek takes you to the base of Mt. Annapurna in Nepal, which is at an altitude of 13550 feet, or 4130 meters, above sea level. On days 4-6 of the trek there is a significant altitude jump; hence, acclimatization is of utmost importance to avoid altitude sickness. Staying hydrated and going slow is the key to it. Some medications are also available that help prevent altitude sickness.
The ABC Trek is best undertaken in the spring and summer months of March to May and then after the monsoon in September and October before the onset of winter.
During this period the weather is clear, and the climate and temperatures are pleasant and comfortable, making the trek comfortable.
It is not advisable to do this trek solo, as the terrain at many places has steep ascents and descents, so local tour support from an experienced guide will help navigate any challenges that arise during the trek. Additionally, altitude sickness is also a major concern whilst trekking.
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