Annapurna Base Camp Trek

15 reviewsAnnapurna Sanctuary
Trip Fact:
  • Duration 10 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • DestinationNepal
  • Max Altitude4130m
  • AccommodationHotels in Kathmandu ,Pokhara and Guest houses/lodges during trekking
  • MealsBreakfast in Kathmandu/Pokhara and All meals during the trek
  • Trip Start/EndPokhara
  • Group Size1-30 pax
  • Best SeasonMarch, April, May, September, October and November are the best months.

What to Expect:

  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Enjoy a scenic ride while driving between Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Embark on an unforgettable journey in the western Himalayas of Nepal
  • Trek to the lap of tenth-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp
  • Follow an adventurous trail via lush rhododendron forests and remote villages
  • Explore the exotic flora and fauna of the Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Experience the mountain lifestyle and get to see the culture of the locals
  • Trek past Hinku Cave and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp
  • Witness the stunning mountains of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Houcnhuli, and other many others on the way
  • Enjoy natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda before returning to Pokhara
  • A fantastic family trek, also ideal for beginner trekkers

On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you will travel far away from your home in the great Himalayan range of Nepal. It is a leisure adventure trek. Leisure in the sense the trek is not challenging and manageable by beginner trekkers. Adventure implies that the trek does not involve easy walking. You will be trekking on rugged terrain that constantly ascents and descents.    

You can do the Annapurna Base Camp trekking in 5 to 14 days or more by extending the trek to beautiful villages if you wish to spend a long time in the mountain. For instance, this is our 10 days Annapurna Base Camp trek package. Trekkers have to be in Kathmandu at least one day before the trek starts. You can also combine arrival and departure in this itinerary.

Hundreds and thousands of adventure enthusiasts have explored this incredible trek route over the years. Today, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered one of the classic and most famous treks in Nepal. The trail leads to the lap of Mount Annapurna, which is the tenth-highest mountain in the world.

What makes the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal so special?

Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, the Annapurna Base Camp trail is easily accessible, especially if you are already in Pokhara, and the trek sees comparatively low elevation gain. Not only that, but you will also get to spend a night at the Annapurna Base Camp. There are a few lodges off the glacier where trekkers spend the night at the ABC.

The best thing about the Annapurna Base Camp trekking is you will get to witness mountain views from day one. Even though the trail sees many trekkers in the peak trekking seasons, you will get ample time to enjoy the views in peace. The trek is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so get ready to come across a wide range of flora and fauna.

As the trek starts from Nayapul, you will traverse diverse climatic zones. There are dense rhododendron, pine, fir, and bamboo forests on the way. Likewise, follow steep, narrow tracks once you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, which starts above the Himalaya Hotel. Before you reach the base camp, you will walk via moraines and glaciers. In Jhinu Danda, you will get to enjoy natural hot springs.

Some of the notable mountains seen on the Annapurna Base Camp trek are Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/24,787 ft), Machhapuchhare (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tukuche (6,920 m/22,703ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), etc.

What to expect during the Annapurna Base Camp trek 10 days?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek 10 days offers a heartwarming glimpse into the daily lives of the mountain people. You will meet with communities like Chhetris, Brahmins, Gurungs, and Magars. The encounters with the locals and their hospitality will enrich the journey. Our guide will help you mingle with the locals along the trail.

Throughout the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you will roughly trek 110 to 120 kilometers (68 to 75 miles). Every day, 6 hours of walking is common. So, the trekkers have to be in good shape. Depending on the time you are doing the Annapurna Base Camp trekking, you will experience different vegetation and climate. Spring and autumn are the top times for the ABC trek.

The trail is well-marked and offers fantastic tourist infrastructure. At the end of your long day, you will get a comfortable and safe space to spend the night. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a lodge trek. Have delicious food, all made from locally sourced produce. We highly recommend you pack ample snacks like nuts, energy bars, chips, or whatever you like for the trip.

Annapurna base camp trek without a guide

The Annapurna Base Camp trek without a guide is on the bit controversial side. On April 1st, 2023, the Nepal government banned solo trekking (without a guide) in the Annapurna region. After almost a year, the rule is still there but sometimes there is no one at the permit checkpost to make sure the trekkers are accompanied by a guide.

The government is still working to put ample manpower in all the routes in the Annapurna region. So, we do not recommend you test your luck and instead trek with a guide. If you join our Annapurna Base Camp trek package, we will pair you and your group with a friendly, professional mountain guide. Trust us, trekking with a guide is much more meaningful.

Benefits of Annapurna base camp trek with Dream Heaven Adventure

You can expect a hassle-free trek experience with us. We will take care of everything for you during your trip to Nepal. From airport pickups and drop-offs to arranging transportation, hotels, permits, etc, our team will be there for all the arrangements. We are a team of experienced travelers who love mountains and showing them.

Our packages are designed to curate as per our client's requirements. If you have any specific budget or need for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, feel free to share it with us. We will see how we can help you with that. You will get the best Annapurna Base Camp trek cost with us, and there are no hidden charges on our trips.

Likewise, you can also tailor make Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary. We also organize Annapurna Base Camp trek short trips. Booking for the Annapurna Base Camp trek 2024/2025 is open for travelers from all around the world. Our trips are 100% guaranteed to depart unless not obstructed by events beyond our control like natural disasters, bad weather, political disturbance, etc.

Itinerary

Distance: 205 km/127 miles
Altitude: 820 m/2,690 ft
Duration: 6-7 hours

You will travel to Pokhara on this day. Have a delicious breakfast early and get ready to leave the hotel. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel. We use a comfortable tourist standard four-wheeler to drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Witness stunning scenery en route. The highway follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers along lush foothills. Upon arriving at Pokhara, the guide will drop you at the hotel and let you rest for the remaining day. Explore the Lakeside Market and beautiful Phewa Lake.

  • Hotel
  • 820 m

Trek distance: 11 km/6.8 miles
Altitude: 1,940 m/6,364 ft
Duration: 1.5 hours drive & 3 hours trek

You will start trekking today. First, drive to Nayapul early in the morning. It will be a short drive. From Nayapul, start trekking towards Ghandruk village. The trail goes through lush forests, crossing some suspension bridges on the way.

You will trek via small settlements, observing the daily life of the locals. Ghandruk is a famous Gurung village that offers stunning mountain views. Learn about the Gurung community here and also visit the Gurung Museum.

  • Hotel/Tea House
  • Breakfast
  • 800m

Trek distance: 9.8 km/6 miles
Duration: 6 hours
Altitude: 2,170 m/7,119 ft

The trail continues from Ghandruk to Chomrong village. You will trek through forests of rhododendron, oak, pine, bamboo, etc. Enjoy nature and its serenity. Likewise, on the way, you will also see mountain views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhare, etc.

  • Hotel/Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2840m

Trek distance: 11 km/6.8 miles
Duration: 5 hours
Altitude: 2,310 m/7,578 ft

From Chomrong, you will trek to Bamboo, a small settlement. The trail descends to Chomrong Khola following steep stones. Cross the river via a bridge and trek from here through bamboo, rhododendron, and oak forests.

The trail gradually ascends to Upper Sinuwa and continues to Khuldigar village, offering stunning views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhare. From Khuldigar village, walk downhill to Bamboo.

  • Hotel/Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2610m

Trek distance: 10 km/6.2 miles
Altitude: 3,200 m/10,499 ft
Duration: 5 hours

From Bamboo to Deurali, we will trek through several villages and dense forests. The trail ascends and descends through lush rhododendrons and bamboo forests. You will trek past the Dovan and Himalaya settlements. From the Himalaya, follow a steep uphill route to Deurali.

  • Hotel/Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2140m

Trek distance: 7.7 km/ 4.7 miles
Altitude: 4,130 m/13,550 ft
Duration: 4 hours

After the Himalaya settlement, the terrain is steep, rocky, and narrow. You will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and trek via Machhapuchhre Base Camp before arriving at the Annapurna Base Camp. You will witness stunning mountain views and glaciers along the way. Unlike the Everest Base Camp, you will get to spend the night at the Annapurna Base Camp.

  • Hotel/Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4,130 m

Trek distance: 14 km/8.6 miles
Duration: 6 hours
Altitude: 2,310 m/7,578 ft

Begin the morning early with a gorgeous sunrise and stunning mountain views. Have a delicious breakfast and get ready to leave the Annapurna Base Camp. Following the same trail, you will get out of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Trek through Deurali and Himalaya Hotel and descend via lush forests to Bamboo for the night stay.

  • Hotel/Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2,310 m

Trek distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles
Duration: 3/4 hours trek
Altitude: 1,780 m/6,393 ft

From Bamboo, you will descend to Jhinu Danda. The trail drops to Kimrong Khola and continues through lush rhododendrons and bamboo forests. Enjoy lovely mountain views on the way as you trek to Jhinu Danda. Jhinu Danda has natural hot springs that trekkers can enjoy paying a few bucks. It will help you relieve your sore muscles and is also good for your skin.

  • Hotel/Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,780 m

Trek distance: 13 km/8 miles
Duration: 3/4 hours trek & 1-hour drive
Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft

Today is your last day of the trek. From Jhinu Danda, you will descend through forests and small settlements to Nayapul. The trek ends at Nayapul. You will drive from here to Pokhara. Check in at your hotel and enjoy the remaining day relaxing.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast/Lunch
  • 822 m

Drive distance: 205 km/127 miles
Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
Duration: 6/7 hours

You will drive back to Kathmandu on this day. You have the option to fly to Kathmandu as well. It will be a short flight, so you will get a full day to spend in the city. Let us know if you want to upgrade your transportation.

Upgrading to flight will cost you a few bucks. Today is your last day in the city. Relax and explore the local market. Shop souvenirs and enjoy your cravings. In the late evening, we will have a farewell dinner together.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1,400 m

Trip Map

Annapurna Base Camp Trek map

Cost Details

Includes

  • Arrival and departure from the airport will be arranged by car/van/hiace ( request with your flight details).
  • 1 night accommodation will be provided in Pokhara including breakfast.
  • During the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as well as accommodation will be provided.
  • An experienced English-speaking trekking guide with a valid government license will accompany you throughout the trek. The guide's expenses such as salary, insurance, flight, food, and lodging are covered.
  • A trekking porter will be provided for every 2 trekkers. The porter's expenses, including salary, insurance, flight, food, and lodging, are covered.
  • All necessary paperwork, trekking permits, and a TIMS card will be taken care of.
  • A comprehensive medical kit and trekking equipment for the staff will be provided.
  • All government and local taxes are included in the package.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back will be arranged by a tourist bus.
  • Private transportation will be provided from Pokhara to the starting point of the trek and from the trek's endpoint back to Pokhara.

Excludes

  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Any personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, water bottles, hot showers, etc.
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Any kind of drinks, including hot water, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks.
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusive cost.

Good to Know

Annapurna Base Camp trek permit

To do the Annapurna Base Camp trekking, you need permits to enter the Annapurna region, which are the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and the TIMS Card. Every trekker needs these two permits for the ABC trek or any other trek in the Annapurna region except restricted areas such as Nar Phu Valley.

Permits are nonrefundable, and you cannot transfer them to anyone else's name once issued in your name. Likewise, every permit has a single entry. Below, we have mentioned the costs of both permits, which are included in our Annapurna Base Camp trek package cost.

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit cost: USD 30 per person
  • TIMS Card cost: USD 20 per person

Best time to do Annapurna Base Camp trek

You will have the best Annapurna Base Camp trek experience in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring and autumn are the top trekking seasons in Nepal. Both of these seasons have stable weather and mild climates, which is crucial for a safe and satisfying journey. However, the overall trek experience will be a bit different in both seasons.

Spring welcomes rhododendron blooms throughout the lower part of the Annapurna Base Camp trail. The vegetation and rivers and streams are thriving. There will be a subtle warmth in the air, which indicates summer is right around the corner. With a clear sky, excellent visibility, and long daylight hours, you will get to enjoy the trek to the fullest.

Likewise, autumn brings crisp air with itself. The climate begins to cool down after a long and humid summer/monsoon. The weather is fantastic in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and lower elevations along the trail. The upper part of the route is on a bit of a cold side. Rivers, streams, and waterfalls are bursting because of all the monsoon rain.

The air is clean and fresh, and the soothing scent of forests and mountains covers the entire trekking route. Likewise, autumn is also a great time to enjoy the festivity of Nepali people. You can see lots of Jatras in Kathmandu if you are in Kathmandu at the right time or festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath.

Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty

Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderately difficult. The daily 6 hours of uphill and downhill walking is the biggest challenge of this trek. While the trekking route is not so steep and offbeat, you will still have to walk on rugged terrain. Likewise, elevation rises each day & you travel in different climatic zones. This adds thin air and environmental challenges.

If you are a fit individual and can walk 5 to 6 hours a day, you will not find the Annapurna Base Camp trek that challenging. Likewise, trekkers who are not fit and have poor stamina can find this trek a bit demanding. So, your fitness also affects the difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

The trek route has a good network of lodges, but services are basic, so you have to adjust too. Please understand that the Annapurna Base Camp trek is an adventurous journey in the remote Himalayas. It is not a leisure activity in the countryside, so challenges are inevitable. However, with proper preparation, training, and mindset, anyone can complete this trek.

How to avoid altitude sickness during the ABC trek?

One of the major concerns for the Annapurna Base Camp trek is altitude sickness. Though not everyone suffers from it, precautions are needed to avoid it. You will go a little above 4,000 meters during the trek, which is a lot for people living at sea level their whole lives. So, adjusting to the elevation takes time.

We have curated our Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary to provide you ample chance to acclimatize as you trek. Even though there is daily elevation gain, it is minimal, so your body and mind will not see sudden drastic altitude change. Therefore, you will easily acclimatize.

You have to be aware of your health during the Annapurna Base Camp trekking for a better experience. Drink lots of water daily and have clean food as much as possible. Get plenty of rest each day and maintain your pace. By doing these few things you can avoid altitude sickness during the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

And in case you see symptoms like vomiting, headache, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, nausea, etc, let your guide know and take first aid. You do not have to worry about altitude sickness that much. Just be mindful.

Accommodation and meals during the trek

The accommodation during the Annapurna Base Camp trek is the lodge. Lodges are common places to spend nights and have meals during trekking in the Annapurna region. Especially the Annapurna Base Camp trek route has a fantastic availability of lodges and services.

Our Annapurna Base Camp trek cost includes twin shared rooms, so you have to share the rooms with a fellow trekker. Single rooms cost additional money, and you have to inform us during booking. You will get a comfortable, clean, and safe place to spend nights while trekking in the mountains.

If you want any extra service, let us know in advance. We will see if it can be arranged or not. Now, washrooms in the lodges are common, and most of them are squat toilets. Prepare your mind for squat toilets and carry toilet paper and other essentials. In addition to the room, lodges also offer food.

You will have three meals a day during the trek and are free to buy more food and drinks on your own. Make sure to carry Nepali currency during trekking for personal expenses. Now, in food, you will get thukpa, dal bhat, noodles, momo, sandwiches, pasta, burgers, pizza, fried rice, stew, curries, chapati, soups, porridge, French fries, eggs, toast, pancakes, oats, etc.

Annapurna Base Camp trek travel insurance

Adventure always carries unseen risks and events, especially in the Himalayas, where nothing is predictable. Travel insurance with helicopter coverage will keep you safe in times of emergency. Travelers must buy travel insurance with helicopter rescue coverage to join the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Foreign travelers cannot buy travel insurance in Nepal, so get it in your country. There are many travel insurance providers out there. Check some options before buying one and compare their benefits. You can add more coverage to your travel insurance, like medical bills, theft of your personal belongings, etc.

FAQs

  • Q1. How much does it cost to hike Annapurna Base Camp?

    To hike to Annapurna Base Camp, you may need USD 800 to USD 1,350 per person. The price can get higher as per the itinerary and services included in the package. Big groups get the best per-head deals.

  • From Pokhara, you can complete the Annapurna Base Camp trek in 6 to 7 days. The Annapurna Base Camp trailhead is located just one and a half ride from Pokhara.

  • No, you cannot trek to Annapurna Base Camp without a guide. Trekking without a guide was banned on 2023 April 1st.

  • Annapurna Base Camp trek requires 7 to 14 days or more. There are different itineraries for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. You can select the one that suits your time. Likewise, we also customize the Annapurna Base Camp trek as per our guests' time and other requirements.

  • Annapurna Base Camp trek is a moderate trekking adventure in the western Himalayas of Nepal. It is not only an easy walk but also not technical and tricky. The trail ascends and descends all the way to the base camp. You will trek via different terrain and climatic zones.

  • No, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is not harder than the Everest Base Camp trek. You will gain less altitude and can complete the trek sooner during the ABC trek. Even though both Annapurna and Everest base camp treks are called moderate, EBC is a bit challenging.

  • Yes, it is safe to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The trekking route is well-established, and you will be accompanied by a reliable native mountain guide. There is nothing to worry about on the Annapurna Base Camp trek as our team will be there with you all the time.


  • Yes, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is for beginners. Make sure you can walk 6 hours a day on rugged terrain. This is the only requirement for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. You do not need previous trekking experience or strong fitness.

  • Yes, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is 100% worth it. You will travel far away from the bustle of the city and get to enjoy nature. Daily walking and clean food will help you feel physically and mentally better. Meet with many trekkers and locals. And most importantly, you will get to see some of the most mesmerizing mountain panoramas.

  • Following our Annapurna Base Camp trek 10 days itinerary, you will cover around 86 kilometers (53.4 miles). The distance may differ as per the itinerary. Every day, you will trek around 11 kilometers (6.8 miles).


  • There is no age limit for the Annapurna Base Camp trekking. People of all ages can do this trek in Nepal if they are healthy and have decent fitness. Likewise, if you are not that physically active and interested in doing the ABC trek, you can exercise and walk a few hours a day for 4 to 6 weeks and join the trek with us.

  • Annapurna Base Camp trek is famous because it takes you to the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world. Not only that, but the Annapurna Base Camp trek also offers a lifetime experience amidst traditional Nepali villages and towering Himalayan mountains.

  • Yes, a good sleeping bag is recommended for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It will help you get better sleep at night. Lodges along the ABC trail offer a clean bed and blanket, but it gets cold at night, and a blanket may not be enough to keep you warm.

  • Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp are two very different levels of treks. Both are excellent treks, and we advise doing both of these treks if you can. ABC is definitely a lot easier than Annapurna Circuit and can be done in less time. Whereas, Annapurna Circuit is a challenging trek and requires previous trekking expertise.

Client Reviews

  • Simon West
    Simon WestUnited Kingdom |October 10, 2019
    Google

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek

    I have booked Everest base camp trek however there was very bad weather and my flight cancelled for two days. Suman was being flexible and offered other options including Annapurna base camp. It was very last minute, but Suman was able to organize everything very quickly. As a result the treks to ABC proceed without any issue. Guide Hupa Raj was incredible; simply no words can describe how professional, kind and informative he is. Dream Heaven Adventure, the company truly is above the competition and Suman has clearly worked extremely hard to build the company to this level, as such I won't hesitate to recommend Dream Heaven Adventure to anyone interested in visiting Nepal.

  • Ramon Rosado
    Ramon RosadoAustralia |September 15, 2018
    TripAdvisor

    Perfect trip to Annapurna Base Camp

    What an amazing trip, can't expect better than this! Everything was very well organized by Dream Heaven Adventure and Suman! We choose them because of their prompt well response and reasonable price.
    We had very friendly and helpful guide, who took care in choosing the best accommodations and facilities everywhere in the trail. It was such a most rewarding experience of a lifetime. Can't recommend Dream Heaven highly enough!!

  • Rachel and James
    Rachel and JamesUnited Kingdom |June 30, 2018
    Google

    Annapurna Base Camp in June

    Hari has been a joy, has been very helpful throughout the entire trip. He has organized everything from permits to breakfast & dinner. He has made us feel part of each village us visited & gave us the best possible experience. We would definitely recommend Hari and Dream Heaven Adventure to arrange who is looking for an experienced guide he speaks good English & is happy to help at anytime.

  • Rohini Prakash
    Rohini PrakashIndia |May 18, 2018
    Google

    Wonderful Annapurna Base camp trek

    Suman and Dream Heaven Adventure Team made our trip truly memorable. They helped us to change the money and gear arrangements in last minute. The trek was wonderful. Sam, our guide was absolutely perfect, tried his best to make our trip more enjoyable. The porters Subash and Anil were also friendly and helpful. A great experience all in all. Will definitely do another trek with Dream Heaven Adventure!

  • Connor Carrol
    Connor CarrolUnited States |April 06, 2018
    Google

    Annapurna Base Camp and circuit trek

    I trekked the Annapurna Circuit and base camp with Gopal and Dream Heaven. I had a great time, as a solo hiker, it was great to not have to worry about anything and know that someone was looking out for me. It was also very cool to have someone informing me about the mountains and culture as we went along. Would definitely trek with Dream Heaven again!!

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