Group Size
Min 1 Max 12
Duration
12 Days
Grade
Designed for active individuals, these trips involve moderate physical activity, typically including multi-day treks with daily walks of 4-6 hours on varied terrain. Expect gradual altitude gains but no technical challenges. Suitable for those with a basic fitness level. Perfect setting of introduction to trekking in Nepal. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well and the well-known ‘Nepali flat’ – a little bit up and a little bit down.
Max. Altitude
4,130m/13,550ft
Activity
Trekking in Nepal
Meals Included
In Kathmandu, breakfast is included at the hotel, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided
Accomodation
Stay in hotels while in the city and in lodges during the trek
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Must-See Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Witness the grandeur of Mt. Annapurna (8091m), the 10th highest mountain in the world, up close.
- Walk through the home of several 7000m plus peaks.
- Stroll through traditional villages and experience the villagers’ warm hospitality and smiles.
- 12 days of moderate adventure with a full support crew.
- Experience the varied landscape, from rhododendron forests to terraced farmlands, alpine meadows, and high-altitude landscapes.
- Relax in the soothing natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda.
- Witness golden hours of sunrise over Annapurna I from Annapurna Base Camp.
- Cross the thrilling suspension bridge over roaring rivers.
12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggage at the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard for Highland Expeditions at the exit of the arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served, and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening.
Meals:
Dinner
Accommodation:
None
Max Elevation:
1350m/4430ft
Drive to Pokhara and explore
After breakfast, we leave Kathmandu and continue our drive to Pokhara. The total duration of the drive will be about 7 hours, and we expect to reach Pokhara by 3 p.m., giving you time to explore. Upon arriving in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free to explore.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: -532m/1,716ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
827m/2,714ft
Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk
Our trek starts today with a drive to Nayapul. After breakfast, we drive to Nayapul, our starting point. From here, our trek to Annapurna Base Camp commences. From Birethanti, we trek to Ghandruk, a beautiful village mostly inhabited by the Gurung community. If time permits, we will also visit the Gurung Museum today. We continue to trek for 5-6 hours until we reach the picturesque Gurung settlement of Ghandruk. Spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli instill more excitement into your adventure spirit.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: [1,113m/3,651ft]
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,940m/6,365ft
Trek to Chomrong
From Ghandruk, you march along the mountain path of stone steps, pass through a hamlet, cross a suspension bridge, and then come across a dense bamboo forest. Finding yourself in complete isolation amidst the serenity of nature can be quite an experience. Your trek does not stop here. After trekking for a while, you approach the teahouse at Jhinu, where you can rest and enjoy a drink or snacks. Thereafter, you resume your trek to the north, and after walking for five to six hours, you will find yourself at Chomrong. From Chomrong, you can get prominent and mesmerizing views of Macchapuchre. There are many chalet-style wooden lodges at Chomrong where you can get accommodation and food.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: [160m/525ft]
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,100m/6,890ft
Trek to Doban
We head out of Chomrong along the Modi Khola, leaving behind inhabited foothills and entering the Himalayas’ high steppes and wooded slopes. We cross the airy suspension bridge and then trek up to Sinuwa Danda. The ascent from Sinuwa becomes somewhat flatter. The trail passes through a thick and dark rhododendron forest up to Khuldighar. Then, the track passes through deep bamboo and rhododendron forest to the village of Doban.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: [480m/1,574ft]
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,580m/8,465ft
Trek to Macchapuchre Base Camp
The day starts with a gentle, gradual ascent following the trail above the river through a thick bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forest up the side of the canyon. The trail passes through solitary places, and the natural beauty of our surroundings in the wilderness gives a special peace to our minds. The trail climbs gently through a riverbed and then rises steeply over the mountainside. There are also avalanche-prone areas at some points on the trail.
After about a half-hour walk from our lunch stop, Deurali, we will find ourselves in the middle of a riverbed surrounded by giant snow-covered mountains. When the sun rises, the snow on the mountains glitters, and the river valley is filled with warm sun rays. The hike to MBC is somewhat strenuous, but the unfolding views of the majestic Machhapuchre are certainly a rewarding experience. We stop overnight at this quiet, lovely Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: [1,120m/3,674ft]
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3700m/12140ft
Trek to A.B.C and trek back to Himalaya
We start early in the morning today, before the dawn, to catch the sunrise. Our hike continues on the Annapurna BC trail for 2 hours. You descend a small ridge branching out from the mountain pass to the mountainside with widespread terraced fields showcasing tranquil meadows and lush fertile farming land. As you reach Annapurna South Base Camp, witness awesome picturesque landscapes, majestic panoramic views of snow-capped mountainous peaks, and varied Himalayan cultural settings tucked beneath the southern slopes of the Annapurna massif.
The Machhapuchre, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Hiuchuli, and other peaks bring a wonderful climax to our trip, which almost ends today. When this is done, we head down to the Himalayas, strolling back through the same trail.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
7-8 hrs
Max Elevation:
4130m/13,550ft
Trek to Sinuwa
Today’s trek follows the same trail all the way back to Sinuwa. The walk continues for 6-7 hours with a lunch stop in between. Overnight at Sinuwa.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,360m/7,745ft
Trek to Jhinu Dada
Today’s walk is generally shorter, continuing for 2-3 hrs. From Sinuwa, we trek to Chomrong following the same trail, and from here, we descend to Jhinu Dada. Lunch will be at Jhinu Dada, and after lunch, you can visit the hot water spring that is situated at 20 20-minute walk from your hotel.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse/Lodge
Duration:
2-3 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,780m/5,840ft
Trek to Kyumi and drive back to Pokhara
Today is our last day on the trek to Kyumi via Jhinu Dada. After a steep descent, we will stop at Jhinu for a break before heading to Kyumi to catch our jeep back to Pokhara.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Duration:
2-3 hrs
Max Elevation:
827m/2714ft
Fly back to Kathmandu
In the morning we might do some last-hour shopping too. After that, we will drive to Pokhara Airport for our flight back to Kathmandu. The flight time is about 20 minutes, and we are expected to arrive 1 hour before flight time for check-in. Grab seats on the left aisle of the plane for the best views of the mountains during the flight because it’s probably our last time seeing them. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we get transferred to our hotel, and we spend the day at our own leisure, perhaps catching up on some last-minute shopping or exploring any sights you missed during your first day in Kathmandu.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
International Departure
Thank you for joining us on this trek. It has been a pleasure getting to know you. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. Keep in touch, and we hope to hear from you soon. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home.
Meals:
Breakfast
Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather or health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
DATES
PRICE
DEPOSIT
AVAILABILITY
12 Days
27 May, 2025 - 7 Jun, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
2 Sep, 2025 - 13 Sep, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
9 Sep, 2025 - 20 Sep, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
16 Sep, 2025 - 27 Sep, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
23 Sep, 2025 - 4 Oct, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
30 Sep, 2025 - 11 Oct, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
7 Oct, 2025 - 18 Oct, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
14 Oct, 2025 - 25 Oct, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
21 Oct, 2025 - 1 Nov, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
12 Days
28 Oct, 2025 - 8 Nov, 2025
USD 1,499
20% Deposit
USD 299.80
12 in a group
Available
Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.
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Cost Inclusion
- All meals (B, L, D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on a trek with tea & coffee.
- Double / Twin-sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 3 nights with breakfast.
- Double / Twin-sharing accommodation at 3 star hotel in Pokhara for 2 nights.
- Internal flight (KTM-PKR).
- All required permits for the trek (ACAP & TIMS card).
- Experienced local trek leader with a 1:4 assistant guide-to-client ratio.
- Full support crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers.
- Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts on private A/C vehicles.
- All ground transportation, as mentioned in the itinerary, is on private A/C vehicles.
- Comprehensive first aid kit.
- Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner, and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of the trek).
- Staff equipment, insurance, and allowances.
- Trek completion certificate (Upon request).
- Farewell Dinner
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare, Visa, and travel insurance.
- Meals at Kathmandu.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on the trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason).
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities for staff.
FAQs About Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek harder than the Everest Base Camp trek?
Can I sleep at Annapurna Base Camp?
What are the views from the Annapurna Base Camp?
Are there wifi facilities along the trek to ABC?
What is the perfect time of the year for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp?Â
What are the starting and ending points of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
How cold does it get at Annapurna Base Camp?Â
How common is altitude sickness on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Are there any religious sites worth visiting on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?
What are the hidden costs of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp?Â
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Trails
Annapurna Base Camp is one of Nepal’s iconic trekking destinations. Trekkers take diverse trails to the ABC within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which ranges from rhododendron forests to high-altitude landscapes, offering the true form of Nepal’s Himalayas. The trek to base camp begins from Nyapaul, taking through the rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forest. Likewise, the trail involves crossing several suspension bridges over rivers.
As the trail moves above the Bamboo village, the landscape of the route changes to alpine terrain with fewer trees but an amazing view of mountain peaks like Annapurna and Macchapuchhre. Similarly, the trail involves walking through a narrow gorge via glacial moraines in an open landscape from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp. In addition, the trail of the Annapurna Base Camp trek takes through varied geography, combining natural beauty with exceptional forms of nature, providing remarkable memories in anyone’s mind.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek costs USD 1,499 per pax with Highland Expeditions. This cost is based on a twin sharing basis and is an all-inclusive cost. The cost will vary if you choose to amend any part of the itinerary or services. Compared to the services we have included, you will find our cost to be very reasonable.
If you are a bigger group, please contact us for group cost and availability information.
What You May Like About the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Mountain Views
Who doesn’t love to get surrounded by mountain peaks while walking on rough terrain? Who doesn’t love to start their day with a view of smiling, towering peaks? And who doesn’t love to witness the snow-covered peak up close? Yes, the trek to Annapurna Base Camp provides you with that experience. The trek offers an eye-catching mountain panorama, including the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Gandharvachuli, Hinchuli, and other peaks.
Hot Spring
Everyone gets tired after long trekking days and wants some refreshments. In such cases, the hot springs of Jhinu Danda help trekkers rejuvenate their muscles, making them ideal points for relaxation. Thus, trekkers may also like the hot spring on the return way, as it provides them with much pleasure and rejuvenation.
Hospitality
Who doesn’t want to be loved and pleased by the locals where they travel? The Trek to Annapurna Base Camp takes trekkers through the ethnic group of Magar and Thakalis, who treat guests as their gods. So, trekkers definitely like the hospitality of the locals along the trek.
Nature
Everyone wants to immerse themselves in the majesty of nature, and the journey to ABC provides this beauty in exceptional form, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Each step of the trek provides a view of another form of nature, from lush green hills to dense forests to soothing rivers. The change in terrain from lush valleys to rocky cliffs and glacial moraine provides a visual feast to those preferring to witness diverse landscapes.
Cultural Villages of ABC Trek
The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is more than just a journey through natural beauty; besides, it passes through several Gurung and Magar villages, offering a unique insight into the region’s culture and traditions. One of the most famous and culturally rich village trekkers on the way to ABC is Ghandruk, a Gurung village known for its traditional houses, stone-paved trails, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna ranges.
Furthermore, Chhomrong is the largest Gurung village on the trail to Annapurna Base Camp. It lies on the region’s hillside and offers a stunning view of the mountains. The village also holds historical significance, as the locals are descendants of brave Gurkha soldiers. Similarly, Deurali provides a mix of cultural charm with diverse ethnic groups residing there, and Jhinu Danda is an excellent village to interact with the Gurung and Magar communities.
Natural Hot Springs in Jhinu Danda
The natural hot spring in Jhinu Danda is one of the prominent highlights and is considered the best place to visit while trekking in ABC. The hot spring lies in the village of Jhinu Danda, a 30-minute walk from the main village. Likewise, the spring lies on the riverside of Modi Khola, and beautiful trees surround it. The soothing geothermal hot spring of Jhinu Danda contains minerals believed to have healing properties for muscle pain, joint immobility, and tiredness.
After the journey to Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers relax their sore muscles in the hot spring, making it an ideal location for relaxation after long days of hiking. Moreover, the hot spring has three pools with different water temperatures, allowing travelers to relax in their desired warmth.
Permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are mandatory trekking permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Obtaining the permit before starting the trip is crucial, as trekkers must show it at the trek’s entry points, checkpoints, and exit points. Highland Expedition arranges those permits without any trouble for our clients so that they can travel without any problems along the trek.
ACAP is essential for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, where trekking occurs. Likewise, TIMS is paramount for allowing authorities to monitor and ensure the safety of trekkers on the trail. ACAP costs approximately US $24 (3,000 NPR) for foreigners and approximately US $8 (1,000 NPR) for SAARC nationals. Moreover, the TIMS Card costs USD 17 (2,000 NPR) per pax.
Unique Wildlife in Annapurna Base Camp
As mentioned earlier, the voyage of Annapurna Base Camp takes place within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Thus, trekkers on their journey to ABC can expect to witness rare wildlife. Established in 1986, the conservation area has 128 species of wild mammals, 40 species of reptiles, 518 species of birds, 23 species of amphibians, and 348 species of butterflies. In addition, the conservation area has 1,352 species of plants.
Annapurna Area is home to various endangered species like the Himalayan Musk deer, Chinese Pangolin, Clouded Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, and Red Panda. Similarly, the ACAP area is the first that found out some rare mammals like Steppe Polecat (Mustela everyman), Pallas’s Cat (Otocolobus manual), Wolf (Canis lupus), Argali (Ovis ammon hodgsoni), Tibetan Gazelle (Procapra picticaudata), and Kasmir Musk Deer (Moschus cupreus) which were first to be seen in Nepal. In addition, ACAP is the only protected area where all six species of Himalayan Pheasants can be found: Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Koklass Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, and Cheer Pheasant.
Camping at Annapurna Base Camp
Unlike other base camps, the Annapurna Base Camp has a good lodging facility at the teahouse. However, some trekkers may also prefer to experience a different way by camping at the base camp, which is also possible but less common. To camp at the Annapurna base camp, trekkers must carry the required gear, from tent to sleeping bag to cooking equipment.
However, trekkers should be ready to face challenges while camping at Annapurna Base Camp. The first and foremost challenge is extreme cold and the need to carry food, water, and camping gear, which can add to the overall load of the backpack. Thus, we recommend that trekkers stay in a tea house, available at the base camp, instead of camping.
Difficulty During ABC Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a moderate trek route in Nepal that requires a general fitness level and proper preparation. But what makes the trek quite challenging? It’s the altitude, trek distance, varied terrain, and unpredictable weather.
- Altitude: The journey to ABC involves gaining elevation from the starting point to the ultimate destination. The highest elevation of the trip is 4,130m above sea level at the base camp of Annapurna itself. At such an elevation, the air pressure is thinner, making it difficult to breathe, adding to the trek’s difficulty.
- Varied Terrain: The trek to Annapurna Base Camp passes through varied terrain, including stone steps, rocky paths, and uneven surfaces. Likewise, the trek involves a steep ascent and descent section, making it physically challenging. The narrow, winding sections and cliff edges can be uncomfortable for acrophobes (those who have a fear of heights).
- Trek distance: The total distance covered throughout the trek to Annapurna Base Camp is about 110 km/68 miles, requiring 5-6 hours of trekking daily. However, trekkers who have never been hiking or trekking may find it challenging.
- Unpredictable Weather: The weather in Nepal’s Himalayas, including the Annapurna region, changes frequently and is unexpected, especially at high elevations. Thus, sudden changes in weather impact trekking and come with risks.
Highland Expeditions for ABC trek
At Highland Expeditions, we aim to provide a wonderful holiday in our part of the world and ensure that our clients enjoy the holiday as much as possible with minimized risks and worry-free trips, monetary, physical, or emotional. Here is why you should choose us for your never-to-be-forgotten trekking experience at Annapurna Base Camp:
- All the logistical arrangements required for the trip will be made prior to your arrival, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
- On the trek, you will be led by an experienced and medically trained guide/leader with a high staff ratio.
- On the ABC trek, all meals and accommodation are included with an OPEN/CHOICE menu option, allowing you to choose your meal straight from the menu.
- The Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary considers every aspect, from acclimatization to good lodging to real-life experiences.
- We ensure you are safe throughout the trip as we keep your safety first over anything.
- Our team is highly experienced and passionate about the Himalayas and their beauty. We deliver in-depth information about the Annapurna region.
- The trek to ABC is customizable, allowing trekkers to customize their itinerary according to their time and needs.
- Highland Expeditions was awarded the Travel and Hospitality Awards, USA, as the best trekking company in Nepal for 2018/19.
Visual Gallery of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Trekkers Reviews of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
See what our travelers are saying! Our reviews highlight the memorable experiences and exceptional service we offer. Read their stories to find out why our adventures are so highly praised. Write a review.
Memorable Trip
Memorable Trip
Highland Expeditions went above and beyond to ensure my trip was enjoyable and memorable. On the trek, everything was taken care of for me. Can’t recommend them enough.
Amazing Annapurna Trek with a Great Team—Best Company Ever!
Amazing Annapurna Trek with a Great Team—Best Company Ever!
Went to the Annapurna Base Camp on the 20th till 30th Oct, 2018, 10 days trek with Highland Expeditions. Passang and his team of guides (Pemba, Shyam and cheerful porters) made it a truly wonderful and memorable trip. I already miss waterfalls, snow, rivers, bridges, mountains and the hospitable gurung people. Passang and his team made safety a priority while being cheerful company. Food was good and aahhh that ginger lemon honey drink throughout.
Highland Expeditions – Best Company Ever!!
Thank you
Anan
I enjoyed myself very much during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Highland Expeditions has done a fantastic job . From it’s experienced leader, helpful and friendly porter, well planned itinerary, comfortable accommodation, transportation and etc, everything has superseded my expectations and i would definitely choose Highland Expeditions again in the future. Well done!
Dhanyabad!!