Annapurna Base Camp Trek-8 Nights 9 Days
9 Days 8 Nights
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Country
Nepal
Best Season
Mar-May, Sept-Nov
Group Size
2-12 travelers
Grade
Moderate
Max Altitude
4,130 meters (13,550 feet)
Highlights
Key Experiences of the Tour
- Panoramic views of Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and Machapuchare
- Varying landscapes from green valleys to glacial basins
- Cultural experiences at Gurung and Magar villages, such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong
- Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda for revitalization after trekking
- Sharp rise in altitude with little technical challenge
Maps
Navigate Your Journey
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Pokhara (820m / 2690ft) to Nayapul (1070m / 3510ft), Trek to Ghandruk (1940m / 6365ft)
The trek begins on a gentle drive along the beautiful highway from Pokhara to Nayapul, a one and a half hour drive of winding roads past villages and farms. The hike proceeds slowly along the Modi Khola river, going through the small villages and landslides of field-terraced agriculture before a gradual ascent to Ghandruk. A large Gurung village, it’s renowned for having its streets paved with stone, ethnic villages, and broad views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. Ghandruk offers the first rich cultural experience and a Himalayan landscape, a dramatic setup for the days ahead.
Ghandruk (1940m / 6365ft) to Chhomrong (2170m / 7119ft)
The path goes up towards the Kimrong ridge from Ghandruk, and there are valley and far-off mountain views. Steep descent through forests to the river Kimrong Khola is done. It crosses over a suspension bridge, followed by a difficult climb through scattered villages and forest, till the village of Chhomrong is eventually reached. The village is a major staging ground, situated on a spur with Annapurna South and Machapuchare looming into view. Chhomrong is the final village before entering Annapurna Sanctuary.
Chhomrong (2170m / 7119ft) to Bamboo (2310m / 7578ft)
The day begins with a steep descent down stone steps to cross Chhomrong Khola on a suspension bridge. The path continues to ascend to Sinuwa, with a brief flat section before the forest of dense bamboo and rhododendrons is reached. The path continues with ups and downs until it reaches Bamboo, a tiny village located in dense bamboo groves. The climate here is cooler and humid, with moss trees and constant sounds of falling waterfalls, and this provides a serene setting for an overnight stay.
Bamboo (2310m / 7578ft) to Deurali (3200m / 10,498ft)
The trail proceeds from Bamboo up through forest trails to Dovan and then into the region of the Himalaya Hotel, where trekkers generally rest to see the scenery of the valley below. After Himalaya, the trail steepens and becomes more rocky, branching through thin gorges with cascading waterfalls and more frequent points of avalanche. Ascending to Deurali is similar to entering the alpine zone, with the vegetation dropping away and the view extending to clifflike rock and snow-covered ridges. The cluster of small teahouses at Deurali is well above the Modi Khola, and the overnight camp is cold but scenically beautiful.
Deurali (3200m / 10,498ft) to Machapuchare Base Camp (3700m / 12,139ft)
The trail gains steadily along Modi Khola river, going through patches of glacial streams and rocky moraines. The environment becomes picturesque with gigantic peaks looming nearby, and the air is experienced as thin. You get to enjoy great Machapuchare views at Machapuchare Base Camp, and also get some views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. MBC is in a wide glacier valley of teahouses waiting to provide accommodation, warmth, and breathtaking dining views. The day is taken up largely in acclimatizing and staring at the grandeur of this divine peak.
Machapuchare Base Camp (3700m / 12,139ft) to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m / 13,550ft)
This is quite a short but stupendous trek that climbs steadily from MBC to Annapurna Base Camp. The path was open alpine grass fields and moraines with beautiful prayer flags spread all around, and some marvelous views of the whole Annapurna Sanctuary unfolded step by step. To be at ABC is simply a mind-boggling experience for trekkers as a whole because you are surrounded by a ring of giants like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Tent Peak, and Machapuchare. One of the prettiest 360-degree panoramas in the Himalayas is that from the base camp, especially at sunrise when the mountains are pink and golden.
Annapurna Base Camp (4130m / 13,550ft) to Bamboo (2310m / 7578ft)
After sunup over Annapurna I, the trek back begins. Descending from Machapuchare Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan, the trail follows familiar routes but feels less strenuous with the descent in altitude taking its sweet time. The warmer, denser atmosphere refreshes guests as they once more trek through forests along Bamboo. Fatigued travelers arrive at Bamboo in the late afternoon and take a breather in cozy teahouses among bamboo groves and the gentle sounds of mountain streams.
Bamboo (2310m / 7578ft) to Jhinu Danda (1780m / 5840ft)
Today’s trek starts with the return climb up to Sinuwa and a climb to Chhomrong village. Lunch is taken here, followed by another climb down along long stone steps to Jhinu Danda. The village is famous for its natural hot springs, and an easy downhill stroll along the Modi Khola river. Trekking days are blissfully concluded here with sore muscles soaking in beautiful mineral water, listening to the river swirling by under starry Himalayan skies.
Jhinu Danda (1780m / 5840ft) to Nayapul (1070m / 3510ft), Drive to Pokhara (820m / 2690ft)
The last day’s trek goes lower down through cultivated terraced fields, small villages, and verdant subtropical forest filled with birdsong. The trek is a gentle one, and the trekkers can relax and remember their trek so far until they reach Nayapul. There is a car waiting for a two-and-a-half-hour drive back to Pokhara. It is like returning from another world – a vibrant lakeside town where trekkers get to enjoy good food, music, and well-deserved rest.
Inclusions
Includes
- All trekking permits required including TIMS and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Three-meals per day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) along, with tea or coffee during the trekking days.
- Tea house or lodge accommodation during the trekking days.
- A professional, licensed English-speaking trekking guide, insured with salary.
- Transfers by private vehicle between Pokhara and Nayapul at the start and finish of the trekking.
Excludes
- International flights to or from Nepal and domestic flight, if taking the Kathmandu–Pokhara option.
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, down jackets or trekking poles) that may be required.
- Full travel and medical insurance, covering emergency evacuation.
- Gratuities and tips for the trek leader, porter, and driver, based as per your own satisfaction level.
- Trekking accommodation, meals or activities in Pokhara or Kathmandu beyond the limit of the itinerary.
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
Food and Accommodation ABC Trek
Food at the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna offers a rich experience for food, catering to the different tastes of the trekkers. Most teahouses and lodges have menus with both Nepali local food and international dishes. The quality of food is generally excellent, with fresh ingredients transported from the nearby regions.
Typical Meals
- Breakfast: Porridge, eggs (boiled, fried, or omelettes), toast, pancakes, and muesli are all common options. Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate will usually accompany them in most teahouses.
- Lunch and Dinner: Dal Bhat (lentil soup, rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat) is the staple food, a balanced and rich-energy meal. Vegetable and chicken momos (dumplings), noodle soups, fried rice, pasta, and sandwiches are also favorites. Soups like tomato, vegetable, and chicken soup are consumed daily for warming the body in higher altitudes.
- Snacks and Drinks: Trekking routes are filled with shops that stock energy bars, chocolate bars, nuts, and biscuits. Hot beverages such as lemon tea, herbal tea, and coffee are readily available, but soft drinks and bottled water are expensive since they must be hauled up the hill.
Food Factors
Food is more accessible, and the prices increase at higher elevations, especially above 3000 meters, as transportation becomes challenging.
Trekkers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) will typically have access to available alternatives, but should also inform guides or lodge operators in advance.
Having some energy bars or supplements in reserve for longer trekking days is a good idea.
Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Accommodation along the ABC trek is primarily in teahouses or trekking lodges. These are tiny family-run guesthouses along the trekking trail, from large villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong to out-of-the-way areas near the base camp.
What to Expect in Teahouses
- Rooms: Simple and small, with twin or triple sharing. Beds are typically equipped with mattresses and woolen blankets, although most trekkers carry their own sleeping bags for added comfort and hygiene.
- Facilities: Rooms may or may not have attached bathrooms. Common toilets are standard and are usually basic, with cold water. Hot showers may be available, but usually at an additional price and in limited quantities due to power supply constraints.
- Electricity: Available in the majority of teahouses by the evening hour through solar panels or generators, but generally limited to the nighttime hours.
- Heat: Teahouses at higher elevations typically do have shared dining rooms, which are warmed by wood or kerosene heaters and also serve as social areas.
- Sanitation and Hygiene: Extremely diverse; trekkers should use their own toiletries and hand sanitizers. Drinking water should be boiled using filters or tablets.
- Social Environment: Teahouse living provides an opportunity to interact with other trekkers and resident families, enriching the cultural experience. Guestbooks, maps, and books are frequently found in most teahouses.
Challenges
- Remote higher altitudes like Annapurna Base Camp have simpler accommodations with fewer facilities. There may be limited or no electricity and hot water.
- Crowding is experienced when trekking is peak season, so early booking or arriving early at popular stops is advisable.
Required Permits and Documents for ABC Trek
To trek legally in the Annapurna area, all tourists are required to obtain certain permits, which regulate tourism, assist in the conservation and development of the local communities.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is mandatory for all those entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, including the trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The permit ensures that the trekkers contribute to environmental protection and sustainable tourism.
- The permit is approximately USD 30 for foreign nationals.
- It may be acquired at the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Pokhara and Kathmandu, or at the conservation area entry point.
- You will need a valid passport to apply.
A Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
The TIMS card records trekkers in Nepal and provides protection to them by tracking movement within the trekking regions.
- Foreign individual trekkers pay a fee of about USD 20 for the TIMS card, while those trekking with agencies pay less.
- It can be purchased from Nepal Tourism Board offices or licensed agencies.
- A valid ID or passport is required for it to be given.
More Documents
- A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months is a requirement.
- A Nepal visa (most commonly a tourist visa on arrival or in advance) is required for most foreign travelers.
Reproductions of all documents and permits must be stored separately from originals.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness, AMS) is a common problem on the Annapurna Base Camp trek due to the sharp ascent to heights above 4000 meters. Reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes cause the body to react, sometimes with a course of symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Causes
At increased altitudes, air pressure is lower, with less oxygen in the air. The body needs time to adapt, and a lack of proper acclimatization causes AMS.
Symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Swelling of hands, feet, or face (in extreme cases)
Prevention
- Rise slowly and do not make rapid altitude gain. Take additional days acclimatizing if possible.
- Stay very hydrated by drinking a minimum of 3-4 liters of water each day.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and excessive exertion during the first few days at high altitude.
- Have light, carbohydrate-rich foods to supply energy needs.
- Use drugs such as acetazolamide (Diamox) only on medical consultation.
- Monitor carefully for symptoms.
Treatment
- Milder symptoms resolve with rest and fluid replacement.
- Descending from high altitude to low altitude as soon as symptoms get worse is absolutely essential.
- Seek medical care for extreme AMS, HAPE, or HACE symptoms, all of which are fatal.
- Guides can recognize AMS and assist trekkers in emergencies.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an essential part of any trekking adventure, particularly in remote and high-altitude terrain such as the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It covers against unexpected events and medical emergencies, such as evacuation, which can prove expensive and logistically challenging in Nepal.
What to Look for in Travel Insurance for the ABC Trek
- Medical Care: Hospitalization, prescription medication, and emergency medical care.
- Rescue and Evacuation: Protection for helicopter rescue or emergency evacuation in case of altitude sickness, injury, or other medical issues.
- Cancellation or Interruption of the Trip: Protection if you need to cancel or cut your trek because of unforeseen circumstances.
- Loss or Theft: Protection for lost or stolen baggage and personal items.
- Activity Coverage: Ensure that the insurance policy specifically covers mountaineering or trekking as the activity, and covers up to at least 4500 meters (about 14,764 feet).
- Repatriation: Return home to your country for medical reasons if needed.
Recommendations
- Purchase the insurance a few weeks or months in advance before embarking on the trek.
- Carry hard copies and soft copies of the insurance policy and emergency contacts.
- Inform your trekking agency or guide of your insurance details.
- Certain policies offer 24/7 emergency hotlines.
Essential Packing List for ABC Trek
Good packing is critical to be safe, comfortable, and successful on the ABC Trek. The weather will be hot and humid in the lowlands to freezing alpine environments, so layers are the solution.
Clothing
Top Layers
- Base Layers: Thermal tops with wicking properties utilizing merino wool or synthetic fabric are optimal to exclude sweat and remain warm.
- Mid Layers: Insulating fleece jackets or lightweight down-filled parkas to provide warmth on cold mornings, evenings, and at high elevation.
- Outer Layers: Waterproof and breathable shell jackets to protect from rain, wind, and snow.
- Additional: Warm beanies/hats for cold conditions, sun caps or beanies to protect against strong UV during the day, and insulated. Gloves are ideally waterproof and provide wind and dust protection in the form of neck gaiters or buffs.
Bottom Layers
- Base Layers: Thermal leggings or long underwear to be worn under trekking pants when in cold conditions.
- Trekking Pants: Quick-drying, resistant hiking pants. Convertible zip-off leg pants are useful for changing weather.
- Waterproof Trousers: Lightweight rain trousers for wet days and snow.
- Other: Wool or synthetic socks (a few pairs) to prevent blisters and stay warm, as well as casual camp shoes or sandals for the evenings and rest days.
Footwear
- Good, well-broken-in, ankle-supported waterproof trekking boots for rocky and uneven terrain.
- Casual shoes or sandals for relaxation at the lodges.
Other Essentials
- Sleeping Bag: Sub-zero rated in order to stay warm at high altitude.
Trekking Poles: To reduce knee strain and provide additional stability on uneven trails. - Backpack: Daypack for daily essentials and a larger pack for personal equipment carried by porters.
- Hydration: Water bottles or hydration packs with water purification tablets or filters.
- Headlamp or Flashlight: With extra batteries for night use at the teahouses.
- Sunglasses: UV protection glasses to prevent snow blindness.
- Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
- First Aid Kit: Blister treatment, painkillers, altitude sickness tablets, and personal medications.
- Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, quick-drying towel, and hand sanitizer.
- Documents: Passport, permits, insurance documents, cash, and photocopies.
Safety Tips for ABC Trek
- Trek with a Licensed Guide: Guides have received training in navigation, safety procedures, and management of altitude sickness.
- Follow a Gradual Itinerary: Give your body time to acclimatize by climbing gradually and resting sufficiently.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water frequently and avoid alcohol or caffeine excess.
- Dress in Layers: Be prepared for changing weather; remove or add layers as needed.
- Monitor Health: Watch for altitude sickness symptoms and communicate with your guide if feeling unwell.
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
What is the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
The best time to undertake the ABC trek is spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). These seasons provide steady weather, good mountain views, and reasonable temperatures. Winter can be very cold, and monsoon time (June-Aug) is full of rain and soggy trails.
How physically demanding is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
The trek is moderate. It comprises a fair level of fitness from day-to-day 5 to 7 hours treks and altitude gain to about 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). No technical climbing skills are required, but endurance, acclimatization, and proper preparation are required.
Do trekking permits have to be obtained, and how do I get them?
Yes, two permits are required: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Both are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or official entry points to the Annapurna Conservation Area. A valid passport is required for processing.
Do I need to hire a guide or porter?
While it is feasible to trek independently, using the services of a licensed guide and porter is recommended. Guides enhance safety regarding navigation, local culture, and healthcare. Porters undertake the carrying of heavy luggage, ensuring that the hike is comfortable and enjoyable.
What are the risks of altitude sickness on this trek?
Altitude sickness is a predictable risk from rapid climbing to an altitude of over 4,000 meters. Headache, nausea, dizziness, and lethargy are present. Acclimatization, hydration, and a slow pace reduce risks. Severe symptoms require rapid descent and medical attention.
What kind of accommodation and food can I expect?
Accommodation is mostly in teahouses, simple lodges with simple bedrooms and shared toilets. There are hot showers and electricity at higher altitudes. The cuisine is typical Nepali fare of dal bhat, momos, soups, and some western food like pasta and sandwiches.
How do I pack my pack for the trek?
Layered clothing suitable for variable weather, sturdy trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag, trekking poles, sun protection, and a basic first aid kit are essential. Carry enough water and purification tablets. Proper packing improves comfort and safety.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes. Medical emergency cover, evacuation (helicopter evacuation), trip cancellation, and trekking activity up to 4,500 meters are essentials. It protects you against unforeseen events in a remote mountain area.
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