Annapurna Base Camp Trek -13 Days
Trip Facts
Highlights
- Panoramic Himalayan Views: Spectacular vistas of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri peaks.
- Poon Hill Sunrise: Iconic viewpoint offering one of the most breathtaking sunrise experiences in Nepal.
- Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m): The ultimate destination with stunning glacial moraines and towering mountains surrounding the camp.
- Cultural Experience: Interactions with Gurung and Magar communities, traditional villages, and local hospitality along the trail.
- Diverse Landscapes: From lush subtropical forests to terraced farmland, rhododendron jungles, bamboo forests, and alpine meadows.
- Comfortable Tea House Trekking: Stay in cozy lodges providing meals and warm accommodation throughout the journey.
- Natural Hot Springs: Relax in the rejuvenating hot springs at Jhinu Danda during the descent.
- Adventure with Accessibility: Suitable for both beginners and moderately experienced trekkers, with well-marked trails and support along the route.
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking adventures, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a perfect mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. The trek begins in Pokhara, a scenic lakeside city, and takes you through charming villages, terraced fields, and lush rhododendron and bamboo forests. Along the way, trekkers experience the warm hospitality of Gurung and Magar communities, making the journey as culturally enriching as it is visually spectacular.
As you ascend through villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chhomrong, the landscapes gradually change from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. A highlight of the trek is Poon Hill, where you can witness one of the most stunning sunrises over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trail is well-marked and supported by cozy tea houses, allowing trekkers to enjoy a comfortable stay while being immersed in nature.
Reaching the Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters is the ultimate reward, offering panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail). The base camp itself is surrounded by glacial moraines and towering peaks, providing a surreal Himalayan experience. Trekkers often spend time here capturing photos, enjoying the scenery, and soaking in the sense of achievement before beginning the descent.
The trek’s return journey passes through familiar trails, descending via Bamboo and Jhinu Danda, where visitors can relax in natural hot springs. This allows trekkers to rejuvenate while enjoying the valley landscapes, waterfalls, and forested trails one last time. The trek concludes back in Pokhara, giving ample opportunity to explore the lakes, caves, and waterfalls, or even try adventure activities like paragliding.
Overall, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is ideal for both beginner and moderately experienced trekkers. Its combination of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and manageable trekking difficulty makes it a favorite among travelers from around the world. With panoramic Himalayan vistas, comfortable tea-house accommodations, and unforgettable landscapes, the ABC Trek is a journey that leaves lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Nepal’s majestic mountains.
Itinerary
Arrive in Pokhara (820m), the starting point of your Annapurna adventure. After airport pickup, check into a hotel for an overnight stay. Spend the day exploring the city’s beautiful lakes, local markets, and scenic viewpoints. Enjoy dinner at the hotel while preparing for the trek ahead.
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the official start of the trek. From here, walk through small villages, terraced fields, and along the Modi Khola River. Cross suspension bridges and enjoy the lush greenery and glimpses of distant peaks. Arrive at Tikhedhunga (1,540m) for an overnight stay in a tea house. Dinner is included.
The trail today is steep and challenging, climbing through forests of rhododendron and oak. Pass traditional villages and observe daily life in Gurung and Magar communities. Arrive at Ghorepani (2,860m), a popular stop for trekkers, offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Overnight stay in a tea house with dinner provided.
Wake up early for the short hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) to witness a breathtaking Himalayan sunrise. Capture panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. After sunrise, descend through rhododendron forests and terraced fields to reach Tadapani (2,630m) for the night. Enjoy dinner in a cozy tea house.
The trek today descends gently into the Modi Khola valley, passing waterfalls, small villages, and terraced fields. Arrive at Chhomrong (2,170m), a traditional village with stone houses and fantastic views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South. Dinner and overnight stay are at a tea house.
Ascend gradually along the Modi Khola valley, walking through bamboo and rhododendron forests and crossing several suspension bridges. Arrive at Dovan (2,600m) for a peaceful overnight stay in a tea house with dinner included. Enjoy the serenity of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Accommodation: | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Altitude: 2,600m
The trail today becomes rockier as you climb through alpine forests and past waterfalls. Reach Deurali (3,230m), a scenic resting point surrounded by cliffs and stunning Himalayan vistas. Tea house accommodation is available with dinner and breakfast.
Today is the highlight: the final ascent to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). Walk through alpine meadows, moraine ridges, and rocky terrain, surrounded by majestic peaks like Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South. Spend time exploring and taking photos at the base camp before resting in a tea house with dinner provided.
Begin descending the trail, passing Deurali and Dovan, enjoying familiar landscapes from a lower altitude. Arrive at Bamboo (2,310m) for an overnight tea house stay and dinner, reflecting on the accomplishment of reaching the base camp.
Continue descending through terraced fields and forests to Jhinu Danda (1,780m). Take a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs here, which is perfect for rejuvenating tired muscles. Overnight stay in a tea house with dinner included.
Descend further to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara (820m). Spend the evening exploring the city, shopping, or relaxing by Phewa Lake. Overnight stay in a hotel with dinner.
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Pokhara, visiting attractions such as Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, Sarangkot, or trying adventure activities like paragliding. Overnight stay at a hotel with dinner included.
Accommodation: | Meals: | Altitude:
Transfer to the airport or bus station for onward travel to Kathmandu or international departure. Depart with lasting memories of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and its stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Includes
- Airport transfers for pickup and drop from Pokhara airport or bus station
- Accommodation in Pokhara hotel (3-star) for 2 nights and tea house accommodation throughout the trek on twin-sharing basis
- All meals during the trek including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and hotel breakfast in Pokhara
- Trekking permits including Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, maximum 20–25 kg)
- Road transport from Pokhara to Nayapul and return
- Trek support including trekking map, company T-shirt, first aid kit carried by guide, and government taxes
- Cultural experiences with local Gurung and Magar communities along the trail
Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
- Travel insurance mandatory, covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation
- Personal trekking gear such as sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, gloves, and boots
- Additional hotel nights in Pokhara for early arrival, late departure, or flight delays
- Personal expenses including WiFi, hot showers, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and phone calls
- Tips for guide and porter which are highly appreciated
- Helicopter rescue or additional costs due to natural disasters, weather delays, or personal reasons
Equipment
Clothing
- Lightweight and breathable t-shirts/shirts
- Long-sleeve shirts for sun protection
- Light jacket or fleece for mornings/evenings
- Waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket
- Comfortable trekking pants and shorts
- Warm sweater or jacket (especially for Pokhara sunrise or Chitwan evenings)
- Underwear and socks (quick-dry preferred)
- Sleepwear for hotels and lodges
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Gloves and scarf (optional for mornings/evenings)
Footwear
- Comfortable walking or trekking shoes (well broken-in)
- Sandals or flip-flops for lodges/hotels
- Socks (extra pairs recommended)
Accessories
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
- Small daypack/backpack for daily excursions
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Camera or smartphone with charger
- Power bank
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
- Travel umbrella or rain poncho
Personal Items & Toiletries
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap)
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Towel (quick-dry recommended)
- Prescription medications (if any)
- First-aid kit (plasters, band-aids, antiseptic)
- Insect repellent (especially for Chitwan)
Documents & Money
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Nepal tourist visa or visa-on-arrival documents
- Travel insurance documents
- Photocopies of passport, tickets, and permits
- Local cash (Nepalese Rupees) and international credit/debit card
Optional Items
- Binoculars (for birdwatching and wildlife in Chitwan)
- Notebook or travel journal
- Snacks or energy bars
- Lightweight sleeping bag (optional if staying in remote lodges)
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