whatsapp-icon

WhatsApp

+977-9851414779
heart-icon cart-icon

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

16 Reviews on Tripadvisor

duration-icon

Trip Duration

9 Days
max-alt-icon

Max. Altitude

4,130m. / 13,550ft.
nature-icon

Nature of Trip

Tea House Trek
difficulty-icon

Trip Difficulty

Moderate
group-size

Group Size

1-20
best-season

Best Seasons

Feb-May/Sep-Nov
activity-icon

Activity

Trekking
start-end-icon

Start/End

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

16 Reviews on Tripadvisor

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal, known for its incredible up-close mountain views and diverse landscapes as you climb towards the base of the 10th highest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8091 m). You travel through green valleys, terraced farms, dense rhododendron forests, and eventually through stunning high-altitude alpine terrain.

The journey offers breathtaking views of majestic peaks such as Annapurna I, II, III, and IV (all over 7500 m tall) and the iconic Machhapuchhre, commonly known as Fishtail Mountain for its striking shape.

A major highlight of the trek is reaching the Base Camp of Annapurna I at an altitude of 4130 meters. The base camp is surrounded, 360-degrees by monstrous snow-capped mountains; a truly awe-inspiring place to witness. The route to get to Annapurna Base Camp offers travellers unique splendors, from natural hot springs to vibrant flora and fauna, and glimpses into local culture.

The main religions of the region are Hinduism and Buddhism and many relics and sacred structures can be seen along the route including prayer flags and stupas. As you pass through beautiful villages settled by Gurung and Magar communities you can observe the cultural traditions, mountain lifestyle and enjoy local delicacies.

The beloved Annapurna Base Camp trekking route has a clear and well-maintained path that is suitable for families, trail runners and skilled adventures. This thoughtfully crafted itinerary showcases the magic of the Nepali Himalayas and can be adjusted based on your needs, time frame and preferences.

Please consider booking your trek with Himalayan Peace Treks, a small trekking company committed to offering ethical tourist experiences in Nepal. We would love to hear from you and answer any questions you might have.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights

  • Gorgeous hiking through varying landscapes as you travel from low to high elevation
  • 360 degree surrounding mountains from Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m)
  • Views of the world’s 10th highest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8091 m) and other monstrous peaks
  • Learn about the traditions and culture of the local Gurung people
  • Soak in the natural hot spring in Jhinu Dada after your incredible trek

Annapurna Base Camp sign

Why Trek With Himalayan Peace Treks?

We are a trusted, ethical trekking and tour company that facilitates incredible experiences in the Himalayas. You can feel good about choosing our company to guide you because of our genuinely excellent service and commitment to giving back to our communities and the environment.

Our ethical trekking approach means appropriate wages and working conditions for our wonderful team, community empowerment and support, and environmental consciousness. We are honest and thoughtful with our guests and everyone we do business with. We promise you transparency and enjoyment from start to finish and would be happy to customize your trip for you.

Our main community projects include donating directly to local schools and orphanages to support children in need. Sustainable trekking is in our hearts and is also in the hands of those heading into the mountains themselves, so we will brief you on how you can trek more sustainably with us.

With decades of experience among the team, we would love the opportunity to share with you what we love about the Himalayas in the most peaceful way.

 

ABC Trek Itinerary Summary

Pre-Trek Day 00: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m)
Pre-Trek Day 0: Final Trekking Preparations
Trek Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (800 m) 200 km, 8-9 hours
Trek Day 2: Drive Pokhara to Jhinu Dada (1780 m), then hike to Chhomrong (2170 m) 5-6 hours
Trek Day 3: Hike from Chhomrong to Dovan (2600 m) 10 km, 5-6 hours
Trek Day 4: Hike Dovan to Deurali (3200 m) 8 km, 4-5 hours
Trek Day 5: Hike Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) 10 km, 5-6 hours
Trek Day 6: Hike Annapurna Base Camp to Sinwa (2340 m) 12 km, 5-6 hours
Trek Day 7: Hike Sinwa to Jhinu Dada (1780 m) 7 km, 3-4 hours
Trek Day 8: Drive Jhinu Dada to Pokhara (800 m) 3-4 hours
Trek Day 9: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu (1350 m) 200 km, 8-9 hours

Photo/Video Gallery

Itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

We are a trusted, ethical trekking and tour company that facilitates incredible experiences in the Himalayas. You can feel good about choosing our company to guide you because of our genuinely excellent service and commitment to giving back to our communities and the environment.

Feel free to arrive today, or earlier, to enjoy Kathmandu Valley, rest, and prepare for your trek. You will be greeted at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and provided with transportation to your pre-booked hotel in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. Please let us know your flight itinerary so we can arrange your pick-up.

activity-small

Distance: 7 km - Airport to Thamel

max-alt-small

Overnight Altitude: 1345m./4,413ft. (Kathmandu)

meals-small

Meal: n/a

accommodation-small

Accommodation: None (can arrange upon request)

Includes/Excludes

What is included?

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
  • Trek briefing one day before the trek
  • All necessary trekking permits
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS Card
  • Luggage storage at your hotel in Kathmandu
  • One night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast included
    • Standard itinerary includes one night pre-trek
    • We can arrange for additional nights upon request
  • Two nights accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast included
    • Standard itinerary includes one night pre-trek and one night post-trek
    • We can arrange for additional nights upon request
  • Round trip tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara
    • Flight or private alternative available upon request
  • Round trip bus, taxi or jeep transportation from Pokhara to trailhead & trail end
  • All accommodation in tea houses while trekking
  • Three meals a day (unless otherwise listed), with a tea or coffee at each meal
  • Daily fresh fruit whenever available
  • Duffel bag, trekking map, sleeping bag rental, and jacket rental if needed
  • First-aid kit carried by guide
  • One experienced and professional local guide who speaks English
    • Guide fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food and accommodation
    • Assistant guides might be added with larger groups
  • If needed, our team will arrange an emergency rescue with your insurance company
  • Company fees, administration, and government tax (VAT)
  • A tree planted in your name
  • A minimum of 1% of profits donated to schools and orphanages in Nepal

What is not included?

  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Tourist visa to enter Nepal (can obtain on arrival at the airport)
    • US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days
  • Any personal sightseeing costs and meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara
    • Temples, monastery entrance fees, souvenirs, lunches, etc.
  • Any extra costs while trekking
    • Snacks, fancy coffees, hot showers, laundry, battery charging, wifi at some tea houses, monastery fees, donations, etc.
  • Local porters to carry the items for your trek
    • Porter fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food and accommodation
    • The number of porters depends on the number of trekkers: one porter carries the items for two people (maximum 20 kg)
  • Drinking water
    • You need to have a water filtration system or plan to buy boiled water
  • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • You need medical travel insurance that covers trekking to over 5000 m elevation, then send the information to us please
  • Staff tips
    • Many trekking guides and porters in Nepal rely on tips to supplement a lower wage. With Himalayan Peace Treks, you will be able to travel knowing that the team is being paid fairly and that any tip you want to give is a reflection of your experience
Price starts

US$ 557

Standard trek price (per person)

  • 1 person
    US$ 826
  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 675
  • 3 - 4 people
    US$ 624
  • 5 - 6 people
    US$ 584
  • 7 - 8 people
    US$ 567
  • 9 + people 9999
    US$ 557

Total Cost:

US$ 826

Trip Information

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. The trails are well maintained, the elevation gain is manageable, the days are not too long and the tea houses are fairly comfortable. That being said, the trek still involves several days of hiking 5-6 hours a day and reaches an elevation of 4130 m.

It is recommended that trekkers spend time before the trek preparing for long days of movement and walk slowly along the route to help their bodies adjust to the changing elevation. Overall, with proper preparation and guidance from experienced guides, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is quite accessible to lots of people including beginners, families, and large groups.

Respecting Culture and Religion on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is rich in various local cultural traditions and Ethnic groups such as Gurung, Chhetri, Magar have roots within the Annapurna region. Prayer flags, mani walls and  stupas add spiritual significance during your adventure. Be mindful of the local norms in which modesty is the standard.

Openly changing in front of people and urinating in public spaces is not common. Please consider the culture when selecting what clothing to bring and keep public displays of affection to a modest minimum. Only enter homes and kitchens when invited, and ask for permission to take photos of local people and their homes (a good practice anywhere!).

The right hand is considered sacred, so pass religious structures with your right side facing them (walking clockwise). Only use your right hand for spinning prayer wheels, eating, and handing items, such as currency, to someone.

Major Elevation Points on The ABC Trek

  • Annapurna Base Camp: 4130 m
  • Starting Elevation: 1780 m in Jhinu Dada
  • Finishing Elevation: 1780 m in Jhinu Dada

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Packing List

We have put together an incredible packing list for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It is extremely thorough and in some cases might be too much, so please use your own judgement when packing. Most people overpack for their first trek, so keep that in mind while gathering items. Porters can carry a maximum of 20kg, which is 10kg per person. We have created a detailed packing list with explanations and here is a condensed PDF packing checklist.

Weather on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

If you are trekking during peak seasons, spring and autumn, you are more likely to get clear skies, little precipitation, warm days and cool nights. At low elevation you might be surprised to know that the day time can be quite hot but the days cool off as you gain elevation. At night time, it can get pretty chilly, especially with higher altitude.

If you are trekking closer to winter (which is December to mid-February), then you are likely to get clear but cold weather. If you are trekking close to monsoon season (which is mid-May to mid-September) then you can expect to get wet! Regardless of the time of year, the mornings are generally clearer in the mountains and the clouds start to roll in after midday.

Food on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Considering that you’re trekking in the Himalayas, the food is pretty great! Each tea house has a menu to choose from including local and international dishes. The most recommended local food to try is Nepal’s national dish, dal bhat. Dal bhat is lentil soup (dal) and a hearty portion of rice (bhat), traditionally served with curry, sautéed greens, and maybe some fresh cut vegetables, a spicy sauce or local yogurt. It’s always made fresh and has unlimited refills to help refuel after a long day of trekking.

Another delicacy to add to your must-try list are momo, which are well-loved local dumplings. You can expect to see other dishes including pasta, fried noodles and soup for lunch and dinner and more western items for breakfast such as pancakes, eggs and oatmeal. Common food requirements such as allergies, vegan, and gluten-free can be easily accommodated for, but some cross-contamination is possible.

Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Tea houses. You will be staying in tea houses which are small, simplistic lodges with a dining hall and guest rooms to stay overnight. At lower elevation you will be more likely to find nicer tea houses with amenities such as hot showers, attached bathrooms and electricity in the rooms. As you ascend, be prepared for more simple amenities and shared squat toilets.

The dining halls are often heated but there is no heating in the guest rooms so a good sleeping bag (provided by Himalayan Peace Treks) is required to keep you cozy and warm.

Transportation to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

From Kathmandu, you can choose to travel via local bus, tourist bus, private jeep or flight to and from Pokhara. A tourist bus is included in the price of your trek package and takes 7-8 hours. Local buses, which are cheaper, can be a fun cultural experience but are often noisy, dusty and even slower. If you would like to add a private jeep for a quicker, more comfortable ride, then you are welcome to do so. Flights are also an option and take about 25 mins.

We would subtract the cost of the bus transportation if you are already in Pokhara or choose a private jeep or flight. The transportation from Pokhara to the trailhead depends on your group and package. You will either take a bus, taxi or jeep.

Required Permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Two permits are required in order to complete your ABC Trek. When you book your trek with Himalayan Peace Treks, we will obtain your permits on your behalf with your passport.

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card

The TIMS card aims to ensure the safety and security of individuals during trekking in the Himalayan regions of Nepal.
For foreigners is costs NPR 2000 and for SAARC nationals it costs NPR 1,000. Children below ten years do not require a permit (the ABC Trek is a great option for families!)

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

ACAP is a national park permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area.
For foreigners: NPR 3,000 and SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000
For Nepali nationals: NPR 100
Children below ten years do not require a permit

Children below ten years do not require either permit. The ABC Trek is an option for adventurous families! 

Trip Map of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trip map of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Frequently Asked Questions

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is best in the spring and autumn seasons. The spring season is typically from the mid-February to the beginning of May and the autumn season starts mid-September and continues through to mid-November. Some guests are interested in coming at quieter times, or have schedule restrictions, and choose to come at the beginning or end of a season and manage the weather conditions.

Yes, as of 2025 it is a requirement to have a certified guide accompany you into the Annapurna Conservation Area. Guides are important for the safety and enjoyment of guests. Guides and trekking companies organize all of the trek details for you including arranging transportation, obtaining permits, and booking tea houses. Guides also offer local knowledge about the culture and language, as well as the surrounding flora, fauna and mountains. Your guide will help you set the pace, assess risks and manage emergency situations.

A porter is not necessary, but recommended for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. If you have lots of experience trekking at high altitude and are feeling physically and mentally confident, then you will likely be just fine.

Porters are recommended for anyone who is new to trekking at high altitude, is nervous about the terrain, or is seeking more enjoyment than a challenge. Hiring a porter is a lovely way to support the local economy and have another staff member present in case of emergency.

Remarkably, considering your location in the Himalayas, there is electricity at most tea houses along the trek. Very few have charging outlets in guest rooms, but you can charge your devices in the main dining hall. Some tea houses request a small additional charging fee.

Be prepared that the electricity is unpredictable and could cut out at any time. Many trekkers choose to bring a power bank or solar charging device. Either can be useful (especially if your phone is your camera) but are not necessary.

Yes, there is wifi accessible while trekking. Although we suggest that you use the opportunity to disconnect, many tea houses have wifi so you can still let your loved ones know that you are having the time of your life.

Many tea houses charge a small fee to access the wifi for your stay. Similarly to the electricity, the wifi can be extremely unpredictable and unreliable so we don’t recommend that you plan to rely on it for anything important

Annapurna Base Camp is located at an elevation of 4130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level.

Altitude sickness, which occurs as a result of spending time at high elevation, can happen any time you’re above 2500 m. It is a result of gaining altitude too quickly and not allowing time for the body to adjust to the reduced oxygen and air pressure changes. Symptoms can include anything from headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, vomiting and difficulty sleeping to more severe symptoms such as fluid in the lungs, irrational behaviour, breathlessness, blue skin, and an inability to walk.

Surprisingly, altitude sickness can happen to anyone, even if they’re young, fit, and have been at high altitude before. It is important to do everything possible to prevent altitude sickness and not ignore symptoms if they arise.

The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend slowly. This means physically walking slowly, as well as limiting how much elevation you gain in a short period of time, and stretching your trek out over many days. To further help the body acclimatize to the elevation gain, it’s a good idea to hike up to a higher point than you will be sleeping whenever possible. If it’s your first time at elevation or you have time to spare, then we can adjust your itinerary to include more days for a slower ascent and more rest. Altitude sickness medication is best used as a treatment instead of a prevention. You can consult your doctor if you have any specific questions.

DO: ascend slowly, drink lots of water, monitor your symptoms and trek with an experienced guide
DON’T: push through severe symptoms, heavily consume alcohol, caffeinated drinks, or smoke cigarettes, take sleeping pills, ascend too quickly

Yes, a tourist visa can be obtained at airport immigration upon your arrival. Visa options include a 15 day visa for $30, a 30 day visa for $50, and a 90 day visa for $125. You can pay the USD equivalent in any major currency. Although credit cards are accepted, cash is recommended.

If needed, you can extend your tourist visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Immigration Office in Pokhara. The extension cost is a minimum of $45 for up to 15 days and then an additional $3 per day.

Yes, obtaining good medical travel insurance before you come to Nepal is necessary to trek safely and worry-free. Ensure that whatever insurance you get covers high altitude activities. You can send your insurance information to Himalayan Peace Treks so we can coordinate your safe return if there are any unlikely emergencies.

To pay for your trek you can bring any major currency ($€£¥) or we can coordinate an online bank transfer. For spending money in Kathmandu and on your trek, you’ll need local Nepali Rupees (NPR) as Nepal mostly deals in cash. You can exchange or withdraw local rupees in Kathmandu.

Once you venture into the mountains there are no reliable ATMs, so any cash you might need for the entirety of the trek (for snacks, souvenirs, gear replacement, etc.) needs to have been already obtained beforehand.

To pay your initial 15% deposit, you can send a money transfer (eg. Wise) or an international bank transfer. To pay for the remainder of your trek once you have arrived in Kathmandu, you can pay by cash (in any major currency), or any of the above listed online transfer options. Any fees associated with a transfer or payment are your responsibility. All prices are listed in USD.

Trip Reviews

trip-advisor-icon View All Reviews
google-icon View All Reviews
Price starts

US$ 557

Standard trek price (per person)

  • 1 person
    US$ 826
  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 675
  • 3 - 4 people
    US$ 624
  • 5 - 6 people
    US$ 584
  • 7 - 8 people
    US$ 567
  • 9 + people 9999
    US$ 557

Total Cost:

US$ 826

Have Questions?

Talk to our expert team and plan your trip.
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
Hari Dhakal
Chris Brooker
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
whatsapp viber +977 9846722055
Hari Dhakal
whatsapp viber +977 9863653779
Chris Brooker
whatsapp viber +977 9851414779

Have Questions?

Talk to our expert team and plan your trip.
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
Hari Dhakal
Chris Brooker
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
whatsapp viber +977 9846722055
Hari Dhakal
whatsapp viber +977 9863653779
Chris Brooker
whatsapp viber +977 9851414779

Keep Exploring

Annapurna Circuit Trek

16 Reviews

US$ 856

per person

duration 13 Days

altitude-icon Challenging

View of Mt. Everest from Everest Base Camp Trek and Everest Three Passes Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek

16 Reviews

US$ 1333

per person

duration 12 Days

altitude-icon Challenging

Manaslu Circuit Trek

16 Reviews

US$ 996

per person

duration 13 Days

altitude-icon Challenging