Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Highlights
- Enjoy the scenic and cultural walks to the picturesque Annapurna Sanctuary.
- An amazing journey from green mid-hills towards arctic zone of ice and glaciers.
- Walking amidst enchanting woods of tall rhododendrons, pines and oak trees.
- Constant views of stunning snow peaks of Annapurna Himalayas on daily walks.
- Stand beneath the world’s tenth highest Mt. Annapurna-I at scenic base camp.
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp and Sanctuary Trek is an incredible destination surrounded by towering, snow-covered mountains. Suitable for travelers of all ages, this trek takes you to the heart of the majestic Annapurna Himalayan range.
At the trek's pinnacle, you'll stand beneath Mt. Annapurna-I, which rises to 8,091 meters (26,545 feet) and was the first 8,000-meter peak ever climbed, achieved by a French expedition in 1950. The journey follows the Modi River upstream to its glacial source at Annapurna Base Camp, which is the trek's highest point at 4,130 meters. This trek is the shortest and most scenic base camp trek in the Himalayas, starting and ending in the beautiful city of Pokhara.
The route leads through the mid-hills and traditional Gurung villages, such as Ghandruk, before reaching Chomrong, the last permanent village and the gateway to Annapurna Base Camp. From Chomrong, the trek continues into the wilderness, passing through pristine forests to reach the Modi River gorge at Bamboo and Dovan, where there are a few simple lodges. The trail then ascends steeply above the tree line to Machhapuchare Base Camp.
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 02. Sightseeing tour inside valley or hiking aroun Kathmandu-shopping for the trek in thamel.
Day 03: Fly to Pokhara 822 m (30 mins)-drive to Tikhedhunga (1425 m) 2 hours of ride-trek uphill to Ulleri village (2,050 m) 1.5 hours of trek.
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani village (2,874 m) 5 hours trek.
Day 05: Ascend to Poon Hill (3210m) 30 minutes descend to Tadapani (2,640 m)-06 hrs trek
Day 06: Trek to Chhomrong village (1,940 m)-05 hrs trek.
Day 07: Trek to Bamboo (2,050 m) - 06 hrs trek
Day 08: Trek to Deurali 3200m-06 hrs trek
Day 09: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) - 03 hrs trek
Day 10: Trek to Bamboo (2,050 m) - 06 hrs trek
Day 11: Trek to Jhinu Danda (1,700 m) - 06 hrs trek-enjoy the hotspring overnight at guest house
Day 12: drive to Pokhara- 04 hrs.
Day 13: flight to Kathmandu
Day 14: rest day in Kathmandu
Day 15: departure from Kathmandu
- Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu 1,350 m
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will be received by our ladies staff. A short drive of 30 minutes from airport takes you to hub of Kathmandu city around Thamel area to your hotel. Following checkin and freshening up After checking into your hotel and after being refreshed. Join the Annapurna Base Camp trek briefing with our female trekking guide covering trek details, local lodge and foods. In evening, enjoy dinner at authentic Nepali Restaurants with a cultural program. A good way as introduction to Nepali Cuisines and Cultures to experience.
- Day 2 - In Kathmandu with optional sightseeing tour and trek preparations.
The day begins with breakfast, followed by visits to two significant sites: Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.
Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located by the Bagmati River, it hosts Hindu cremation ceremonies and is especially important during Shivaratri, attracting numerous pilgrims.
After breakfast, we'll visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of Nepal's largest stupas, positioned east of Kathmandu. It's notable for its significant size and height, as well as its four pairs of eyes representing Mahayana Buddhist principles. Following a quick city tour, we'll return to the hotel to prepare for tomorrow's trek, spending the night there - Day 3 - Fly to Pokhara 860 m (30 mins by air), drive to Thirkhedhunga,1,425 m and trek uphill to Ulleri village 2,050 m. 3 hours ride, and 1.5 hrs hours walks.
After breakfast, our team will escort you to Kathmandu Domestic Airport Terminal for your short flight to Pokhara. The 30-minute flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we'll organize our belongings before embarking on a thrilling drive. Passing through Bhirethati village and ascending gradually to Hille, we'll reach Thirkhedhunga, where we'll spend the night in a cozy mountain lodge with views of the Annapurna peaks.
Note: Kathmandu to Pokhara is approx.220 km/137 miles driving distance.
From Kathmandu to Pokhara, about 30 minute’s scenic flight. - Day 4 - Trek to Ghorepani village 2,885 m - 4.30 hrs.
In the morning, admire the stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchare Himalayas from Ulleri. Embark on a short 3-4 hour trek to Ghorepani after breakfast. The trail winds through serene forests of rhododendrons and pines, leading to the lower Ghorepani village and then the upper village of Deurali, known for its blue-painted lodges. Enjoy lunch and stay overnight in Ghorepani, with beautiful views of the Dhaulagiri Himalayan range.
- Day 5 - Morning hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani 2,640 m-06 hrs.
Early morning, hike up to Poon Hill for stunning sunrise views over Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri Himalayas. Enjoy breakfast in Ghorepani before heading to Tadapani. The morning trek involves ascending through forests to Deurali, then descending to Banthati for possible lunch. Afternoon, continue to Tadapani for overnight stay in a simple lodge amidst serene woodlands beneath the Annapurna Himalayas.
- Day 6 - Trek to Chomrong village 1,940 m - 05 hrs.
From Tadapani, descend through dense forest trails, cross the Kimrong Khola, and climb stairs to Gurjung village. After a rest, follow a stone-paved path to Chomrong for the night. Chomrong, the last permanent village before Annapurna Base Camp, offers good lodges and food, with views of Annapurna peaks.
- Day 7 - Trek to Bamboo 2,610 m- 6 hrs.
After a pleasant night in Chomrong, the morning trek descends to cross a river, then climbs to Sinuwa Danda, a small ridge settlement with charming lodges, ideal for a possible lunch stop. From Sinuwa, the trail winds through dense woods, with a short descent to Bamboo, a tranquil spot surrounded by bamboo groves and pine forest, overlooking the Modi River and offering several quality lodges.
- Day 8 - Trek to Deurali -04 hrs.
From bamboo, you will go through dense vegetation and along the Modi River gorge for a few hours to reach Dovan, a secluded spot with charming huts and cottages serving as accommodations. Continue following the Modi River upstream from Dovan, ascending through thick vegetation and tall trees to reach Himalaya Hotel, where you'll find quality lodging options. After a rest, trek over rocky moraine debris from past avalanches of Him-Chuli peak, staying close to the river until reaching Deurali, where you'll spend the night on a flat field.
- Day 9 - Trek to Annapurna Base Camp 4,130 m - 03.5 hrs.
Early morning, trek on the opposite side of the Modi River, passing through bamboo thickets and bushes. After a few hours, reach Machhapuchare Base Camp (MBC) beneath the towering North West Face of Machhapuchare Himal. Enjoy lunch at MBC before continuing to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). After a short climb, enter the picturesque Sanctuary surrounded by jagged peaks. Reach ABC, nestled beneath the towering East Face of Mt. Annapurna-I, for lunch and overnight stay, marking the highest point of the journey.
Take time to admire the stunning views of snow-capped peaks surrounding the sanctuary and Annapurna Base Camp. The vistas encompass Mt. Annapurna-I, Vara Shikar, Gangapurna Himalaya to the northwest, Annapurna South, Him-Chuli to the south, Tent Peak/Tharpu Chuli, Fluted or Singu Chuli, and Machhapuchare Himal, along with various other lesser - Day 10 - Trek to Bamboo 2,050 m - 06-07 hrs.
Following the shorter trekking day yesterday, today marks the longest journey to reach Bamboo from Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). After a captivating experience at ABC and the Sanctuary, start the day with a hearty breakfast. The adventure kicks off with a descent to Deurali, passing Machhapuchare Base Camp (MBC), and then involves a few short climbs to Himalaya Hotel and Dovan. The day concludes upon reaching Bamboo for an overnight stay, wrapping up a long and exhilarating day. Relax with afternoon tea and dinner at a comfortable lodge along the main route of Annapurna Base Camp.
- Day 11 - Trek to Jhinu-Danda a place with hot spring 1, 700 m - 05 hrs.
From Bamboo, ascend briefly to Khuldi Ghar, then follow a winding trail to Sinuwa Danda. Descend to a river, cross a bridge, and climb steeply to Chomrong for lunch. Afterward, trek downhill to Jhinu-Danda for the final overnight stay. Enjoy a natural hot spring nearby for a refreshing dip after the day's adventures.
- Day 12 - Drive to Pokhara- 03 hrs.
After a delightful overnight stay in Jhinu village, the morning begins with a brief stroll across the bridge, leading to New Bridge for crossing over the Modi River. Following the bridge crossing, embark on an exhilarating drive back to Pokhara along the same scenic highway. The journey improves as you join the main highway, eventually arriving in Pokhara for an overnight stay in the cozy comfort of a charming hotel.
- Day 13 - Fly to Kathmandu
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, it's time to catch the flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to Pokhara domestic airport, which now also serves international flights. Check in and board a moderate-sized airplane for a scenic flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, a brief drive will take you to the hotel. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax and unwind at leisure.
- Day 14 - In Kathmandu free day, for individual activities with options for tours.
You have a leisure day in Kathmandu to unwind and engage in personal activities, including shopping for Nepalese souvenirs like handicrafts and jewelry. Those interested can also request a tour of the captivating cities of Patan and Bhaktapur for an additional adventure.
- Day 15 - International departure from Kathmandu
On your final day in Kathmandu and Nepal, after an enriching adventure exploring the Annapurna Himalayas, it's time for your international flight. Our female guide and staff will accompany you to the airport, where you bid farewell to Nepal, your guide, and the staff. As you enter the terminal for your journey home or to your next destination, you carry with you the memories of your unforgettable experiences in Nepal.
- Both pickup and drop from airport
- One way flight ticket Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Accommodation in 3 star standerd hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara including breakfast
- All meal ( breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout the trek
- Tea or coffee 3 times a day during the trek
- Lodging in tea houses during the trek
- Certified A graded female trekking guide, potter (helper) and assistant guide for groups consisting more than 5 trekkers
- All expenses for the trekking staff, encompassing food, drinks, lodging, salary, insurance, medical equipment, and transportation.
- All necessary trekking permits, including the Trekking Permit (TIMS), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Essential gear for the trek such as, down jacket, sleeping bag, fleece liner and a duffel bag.
- Sightseeing in Pokhara, with a guide, private transportation, and entrance fees.
- Cultural and historical sightseeing in Kathmandu, with a tour guide, private transportation, and entrance fees.
- All government taxes into the overall package.
- Bar bills (alcoholic drinks, mineral water,), cigarettes, client's personal insurance, and any kind of unforeseen & personal expenses
- Your personal insurance must include comprehensive coverage, emergency helicopter evacuation, to address unforeseen circumstances.
- Lunch and dinner, during your stay in Kathmandu
- Gratuities for the Guide and Porters which are not obligatory but are anticipated and suggested as an additional expense.
- Any expenses other than the price include section.
- All personal stuff
- Alcohol, soft drinks and mineral water
- Sweets, candy, chocolate bars etc
- Lunch and dinner at Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Gratuities for guide and potter