Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Nepal
Trip Highlights
Get face-to-face with the 10th highest Peak in the world, Annapurna as you trek to its base camp.
Experience trekking on a unique trail that passes through diverse landscapes, from cityscapes to lush forests and then to alpine meadows.
Pass through Annapurna Sanctuary and if you are lucky enough you may spot several endangered species like the Danphe (Himalayan Monal), Himalayan Tahr and many more.
Trek through the beautiful Ghandruk Village where you can interact with the warm local communities and get to know Nepali culture up close.
Know Before You Go
- Backpack offloading charges – If you wish to offload your backpack, there will be an additional charge of Rs. 6,725 inclusive of tax. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kgs.
- Transport to and from Pokhara – You will need to reach Pokhara on your own on Day 1 and arrange for your journey back from Pokhara on Day 9.
- Food during transit – The trek fee does not include meals purchased during the journey from Pokhara to Ghandruk and the return drive from Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara.
- Use of plug points in tea houses – Most tea houses allow the use electricity charging points at an extra cost – 100-300 NPR, with the cost being towards the higher side as you go farther into the trek.
- Use of wifi and telephone in tea houses – You can buy wifi at all tea houses. Cost ranges from 200-300 NPR. The quality is not great. Major tea houses also have the facility to make calls.
- Use of RO treated water – all tea houses provide free filtered drinking water. If you wish to use RO treated water, there is an additional charge of 50 NPR per bottle.
- Buffer day: In case this is used, you have to pay us Rs. 3,250 per day (INR) + 5% GST for the buffer day. We will collect this only if we use the buffer day. The money will be collected by your trek leader.
- Tip: Porters in Nepal expect to be tipped. The tip amount for people who offload their bags will be INR 1,000 per person. If you do not offload your bags, the tip amount will be INR 700 per person.
- Suitcases/strolleys/duffel bags will not be allowed. Please note that last minute offloading will not be possible on this trek.
- Climatic conditions in the high altitudes vary from the plains; take adequate time to get acclimatized to high altitudes.
- Pay heed to the tour leaders or instructors in order to enjoy a safe and sound experience.
- Avoid treking during the nights.
- Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit during the tour.
- Budget at least Rs. 250 per person per day on bottled water.
- The tour takes place through eco-friendly zone; do not encourage littering the local sites or campsites.
- While visiting the temples, do obey proper dress-code and do not hurt the local sentiments of the places.
- Rescheduling Policy for Private (Standard & Deluxe Package) & Group Bookings: 1) If rescheduling is made 7 days after the Booking Date till 15 days prior to the Date of Travel then 30.0% of the total tour cost will be charged as rescheduling fees. | 2) If rescheduling is made 0 days to 15 days before the Date of Travel then 100.0% of the total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees. | 3) If bookings are made 15 days before the Date of Travel no rescheduling & modifications will be made.
- Rescheduling Policy for Private (Super Deluxe) & Hotel Specific Bookings: No modification or Rescheduling will be catered. A standard cancellation policy will be applicable for such cases.
- Force Majeure: In cases of force majeure events (e.g., natural disasters, political unrest, or other unforeseeable circumstances), [Thrillophilia] reserves the right to reschedule Tours & treks or offer alternative itineraries to ensure the safety and well-being of clients and staff.
- Cancellation After Rescheduling: Clients who reschedule their tours or treks but later decide to cancel will be subject to our standard cancellation policy. Any rescheduling fees paid will be non-refundable.
Additional Information
About the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
The Annapurna Base Camp is perched on a cloud-piercing height of 13,550 feet in the northern region of Nepal. Starting from Banthanti, Annapurna Base Camp offers a stunning opportunity to relish the breathtaking heights of giant Himalayan ranges. The mountain ranges included in this tour bring you through oak, pine, rhododendron, and lush green rice fields engraved with a diamond-like carpet of snow amidst majestic slopes of misty valleys. Since the Annapurna Base Camp Trek happens around a vast area of Annapurna Conservation Area,. You'll be walking across the Modi River and discovering some of the massive peaks at 7000–8000 m.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Nepal Quick Facts:
- Duration: 9D/8N
- Maximum Altitude: 13,550 ft
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty Level: Moderate-Difficult
- Approx. trekking distance: 67 Kms
- Temperature: Day: 15°C to 20 °C and Night: 0°C to 5°C
- Best Time To Trek Annapurna Base Camp: Feb to May, Oct to Dec.
- ATM: Pokhara
- Start Point/End Point: Pokhara.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Package Inclusions:
- 2 nights of twin-sharing accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
- All accommodations during the trek (lodge or tea house).
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) during the trek.
- Tea or coffee (served in a cup).
- Annapurna trekking permits and Tims (Trekkers Security Card) permits are included in the Annapurna base camp trek package.
- A comprehensive medical kit
- A government-licensed and well-trained English-speaking guide and his entire expenses.
- All required local tax and government tax.
- Trekking Route Map.
Available Group Departures:
- October : 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- November 6,13,20,27
- December :4,11,18,25
How to Reach Pokhara:
- By Air- To reach the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you can fly from major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Jaipur, and Varanasi to Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, you can take another flight to Pokhara in Nepal. This air route provides a quicker option to travel to the Pokhara in just 5 to 6 hours.
- By Road- Regular bus services are available from Kathmandu and Sanauli to Pokhara. You can either opt for a local bus from the New Bus Stand, or a Greenline tourist bus from the Tourist Bus Station in Kathmandu to reach Pokhara.
- By Train- There is no direct train to Pokhara in Nepal. The nearest railway stations to Pokhara are Jaynagar, New Jalpaiguri, and Gorakhpur. You can take a cab or taxi to cross the borders of India at Panitanki or Sunauli. From there you can take a bus to Pokhara via Kathmandu.
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Pokhara Tour FAQs
What is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The best time to go on the Annapurna Base Camp trek is during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During this time, the temperature ranges between 12 and 25 degrees Celsius during the day. While the night temperature averages between 1 and 4 degrees Celsius. The weather also remains warm with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming landscapes. In spring, the landscape transforms into a mesmerising spectacle of rhododendron and magnolia blooms. On the contrary, the autumn season brings clear blue skies, crisp air, and enhanced visibility to see wonderful views of the Annapurna.
How much does the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek cost can range around INR 34,400, per person. It includes accommodation in tents and homestays, meals and snacks, trekking permits, and local transfers. However, the total Annapurna Base Camp trek cost varies based on factors like the duration of the trek, additional services, and the time of the year you plan to undertake the trek.
How is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek weather conditions?
Most routes leading to the base camp have little danger by the snow cover but you must be cautious in the spring. At the lower elevations, spring brings joy with multiple flowers but at the top, it will be filled with snow. It is a great time to do trekking during the months of the spring season. Also, since it is located at a great height, weather conditions are really fluctuating but the autumn season experience quite steady weather. Hence it is considered to be the most suitable time to do trekking.
At Pokhara, the day temperature will be between 15°C to20°C in October. Night temperatures will be 0 to 5°C. It will fall to 0°C at Machapuchare Basecamp and Annapurna Base camp. Snow cover will not be there to hinder you in October but if you choose April, then you will likely witness snow near to Machapuchare Base Camp and near ABC.
How long is Annapurna Base Camp trek?
The length of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is approximately 67 kilometres. This trekking expedition starts and ends in Pokhara in Nepal. The maximum altitude of the trek is approximately 13,550 feet. Since the level of this trek is moderate to difficult, you can imagine that the trail has rugged terrains and steep ascents, people with experience at higher altitudes should undertake this journey.
How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp trek?
The difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderate to difficult. Starting at Pokhara, you will reach the base camp at 13,550 feet in 6 days. While most of the trek is moderate, it becomes challenging near Annapurna Base Camp due to the rough terrain and climbs. However, you can find some relaxing descents too, where you can ease off your tiredness.
Which month is best for Annapurna Base Camp?
October is the best month to book the Annapurna Base Camp trek package and go on a thrilling expedition. During this month, the daytime temperature ranges between 15 to 18 degrees Celsius, and nighttime temperatures drop to 5 to -5 degrees Celsius. Since it is the post-monsoon season, you can see the gorgeous Himalayan views from all corners. You can also watch the sunrise and sunset against the backdrop of the waterfalls, lakes, and hills on this amazing trek.
How long will it take to reach Pokhara by bus/tourist bus?
It will take you around 5 to 7 hours to reach Pokhara by regular tourist buses from Kathmandu. To reach this place as per your Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary, you will find regular bus services from Kathmandu every 15 minutes, starting at 7 a.m. It will cost you around NPR 800 to NPR 1,200 (INR 500 to INR 750) per person to travel to Pokhara via a tourist bus. If you are looking for a cheaper option, you can go for the local minibus that costs approximately NPR 400 to NPR 600 (INR 250 to INR 375), per person.
What sorts of accommodation is available during the trekking portion of Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
During the trekking portion of Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will be accommodated in a guesthouse. The rooms at the guesthouses are neat and clean and bathrooms are mostly built inside the housing area. In this trek route, Ghorepani is the only place where rooms with attached bathrooms are available. Likewise, up to Chomrong village, teahouses have rooms with twin beds to share amongst two trekkers.
However, afterward Chomrong, there are a limited number of teahouses so in one room there will be multiple beds. And during the peak trekking season, 3 – 4 trekkers will have to share one room, each person will get a bed to sleep.
The beds at the teahouses are already set up with a mattress, bed sheet, pillows, and blankets for your comfort.
Can beginners do this trek?
Annapurna Base Camp trek is certainly one of the best trekking trails for the beginner. The trek begins from TikheDhunga which is at the height of 1495m. This height is a normal elevation to start a trek. And in the span of 9 or 10 days depending upon your itinerary, you will reach 4,130 m. If you reach this height in 9 or 10 days, it is a gradual approach so you will not have a complication. Due to this reason also, it is a moderate level of the trek. Besides, you will be guided by our expert trekking leader who has wide knowledge about trekking in Nepal and Annapurna region. Thus, he will escort you gradually to your destination.
When is an ideal time to do Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The ideal time to go for the Annapurna base camp trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. These seasons generally fall between March and June and then from September to November, respectively. During this time, the temperature hovers between 15 to 24 degrees during the day and from 10 to -5 degrees Celsius at night. The autumn season provides clear skies and spectacular mountain views. On the other hand, the spring season showcases luscious green valleys. The Annapurna Base Camp trek remains open for tourists throughout the year, although it depends heavily on the weather conditions.
How can we train ourselves for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
For the ABC trek, we would suggest you to start training and preparation at least 1 month before the trek date. Any exercise that will increase your endurance level is recommended. Besides that, we would also advise you to do cardio exercises, swimming, walking, and hiking at least once a month. Doing these activities will prep you for the trek. And this preparation is amply enough for the trek.
What is the level of fitness expected from the participants?
If Annapurna Base Camp is participants’ first trek then they should start focusing on their diet and work out a couple of months ago. It is 4130 m high above the sea and the entire trek distance is calculated up to 115 km. You’ll have to hike for 10-12 km per day. This marks the difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp trek as moderate. Also, if participants are familiar with trekking and heights then it won’t be challenging.
How can we avoid altitude sickness during the trek?
Firstly, we would suggest you to not rush the trek even if you are energetic and think you can walk for another 4 or 5 hours. It is very unhealthy and dangerous while trekking in high altitudes. On the same note, staying hydrated is also very necessary. While trekking at least drinks 4 to 5 liters of water daily. This will avoid getting mountain sickness. Likewise, we would also advise eating soupy and foods that can be easily digested. Although food does not have much relation with altitude sickness however eating a heavy meal can give you digestion problems. Additionally, you should not drink while on the trek. Drinking will easily give you a headache which can result in altitude sickness. Also, you can intake Diamox pills too. You can purchase these pills in the pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription. These are some but very important tips to remember while trekking in Nepal. These will help you to avoid the chance of getting altitude sickness.
What is the difference between Annapurna Base Camp Trek And Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The main difference between Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek is the elevation. Annapurna Base Camp trek will take to an elevation of 13,550 feet whereas Annapurna Circuit Trek will take you as high as 17,770 feet. So, you can choose between these two treks on the basis of how high you wish to go. Keep in mind that with height, the geography of the terrain will also change.
Moreover, the route and time duration for both the treks is different. ABC trek takes half of the time you will take to complete the Annapurna Circuit. ABC trek will lead you to the middle of the circuit starting from Pokhara while covering Sherpa, Gurung, Ghorepani, Dovan and Deurali whereas Annapurna Circuit trek covers the cliffs of the mountain through Manang to Thorong Phedi.
Is it safe to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is generally safe. There is no restriction on solo travelling, but having a companion or joining a group can be more fun. To be more secure, you can take preventive measures like acclimatization and staying hydrated. So that you can enjoy yourself to the fullest on the trek.
Can anyone go to Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, anyone above 10 years of age can go for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. While previous trekking experience is appreciated, it is not compulsory. All that matters is that climbers should remain fit and have enough stamina to cover 4 kilometres in 30 minutes without any hassle. With the level of the trek being moderate to difficult, it offers a rewarding challenge for experienced trekkers who are looking for a memorable adventure.
What are the clothing and equipment which I should carry from my end?
- Trekking shoes
- Backpack (40-60 litres)
- Three warm layers
- Three trek pants
- Three collared t-shirts
- Thermals
- Sunglasses
- Synthetic hand gloves
- Socks (2 pairs)
- Headlamp/LED torch
- Trekking pole
- Daypack (20 liters)
- Toiletries: Sunscreen, moisturizer, light towel, lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, Two water bottles
- Plastic covers and medicine kit
Which type of shoes should I carry for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
It is advised to carry only trekking shoes instead of sports shoes for ABC Trek. Shoes with good soles that have a greater grip on the rough terrains and strong ankle support can be used. Avoid buying new shoes because it can cause blisters.
Try walking wearing trekking shoes before you come for the activity. Forclaz 100, 500 and 600 are some of the good trekking shoes that can be used for this trek.
Will there be electricity to charge our electrical devices?
Yes, electricity is available to charge your phones, camera batteries, or any other devices. However, you will have to pay for these services. Not all the teahouse charges money for using electricity to charge devices. But many will charge you extra costs. So, it is our suggestion to discuss the cost with the teahouse owner before using the service. Normally, it cost about NPR 200-300 to charge phones and camera batteries.
How safe is it to fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu?
Yes, it is safe to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Although the flight is nothing like Kathmandu – Lukla flight, it can still be considered an adventurous experience. From the flight, you will get to see the deep valleys, cities, deep forests, hills, and rivers. Overall, it is a scenic and safe flight. So, you do not have to worry about anything.
Is Annapurna Base Camp worth it?
Yes, the trek to Annapurna Base Camp is absolutely worth it. The trail boasts unique diversity, like the rhododendron forests, and terraced paddy fields. You can also see the beauty of the stunning Poon Hill viewpoint from the Annapurna Base Camp. Even the snow-covered Annapurna mountain range also offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of Landruk and Ghandruk villages.
How can we stay connected with our family back home? Can I get a phone reception?
Yes, phone reception is available in most of the places during the trek. Likewise, WIFI services are also available on the trail. To use WIFI services, you are expected to pay a fee. These fees increase as you scale up the higher altitude. Usually, the cost of WIFI services ranges about NPR 400-500 each depending upon the location you are staying in. And another option to stay connected with your family back home is by using an internet data package if you have a local SIM card. You can buy a SIM card around the street of your trip hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara or ask your guide to arrange it one for you. However, we must inform you that internet service may not be strong in all places.
Are all your guides first aid trained?
Yes, all the trekking guides appointed by our company are first aid trained. In case of minor injuries, they will treat the injured. And for your kind information, they all carry a first aid box with all the necessary medical supplies. They always keep them reorganized too.
Are there ATMs on the trail?
ATM’s unfortunately are not available on the trail of Annapurna base camp. So before starting the trek, you have to make enough money that will be sufficient from the start to the end of the trek. ATM’s are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Which are the other best Nepal treks that we can book from Thrillophilia?
Here is the list of other best Nepal treks that you can book from Thrillophilia: