Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Journey into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) is the definitive Annapurna experience — a 12-day journey that takes you from the lush subtropical valleys around Pokhara to the high-altitude amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130m. The trail passes through terraced rice paddies, traditional Gurung villages, and ancient rhododendron and bamboo forests before emerging into a stunning glacial cirque ringed by some of the world's highest peaks: Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. Along the way, the trek includes the famous sunrise viewpoint at Poon Hill (3,210m) and a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, making it one of the most complete trekking experiences in Nepal. A mandatory government-licensed guide is required since April 2023.
Trek Highlights
- Stand inside the Annapurna Sanctuary at Base Camp (4,130m), surrounded by a 360-degree wall of giants
- Sunrise panorama from Poon Hill (3,210m) over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre
- Pass through Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m) with dramatic close-up views of the sacred Fishtail peak
- Relax in the natural geothermal hot springs at Jhinu Danda (1,780m)
- Explore the large traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk and its cultural museum
- Trek through diverse ecosystems — subtropical farmland, rhododendron and oak forest, bamboo groves, and high alpine terrain
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Gallery
Cost Includes
- Airport/bus station pick-up and drop-off in Pokhara
- Tourist-class hotel accommodation in Pokhara (2 nights, including breakfast)
- Teahouse accommodation throughout the trek (9 nights)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trek leader/guide
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 15 kg per porter)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card
- Private vehicle transport to and from trailhead (Nayapul)
- First aid kit, pulse oximeter, and emergency rescue coordination
- Sleeping bag and down jacket rental (if required)
- Trek completion certificate
- All government taxes and service charges
Cost Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Nepal entry visa fees (approx. USD 50 for 30 days)
- Travel and emergency helicopter evacuation insurance (mandatory, must cover 4,130m)
- Meals and drinks in Pokhara hotels (outside of trek days)
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging at teahouses (small additional fee)
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Tips for guide and porter (customary: approx. 10% of trek cost)
- Personal expenses, snacks, and souvenirs
- Costs arising from delays due to weather, strikes, or unforeseen circumstances
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting from
$950
per person
Duration
12 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Max Altitude
4,130m
Region
Annapurna
Group Size
2-16 people
Start / End
Pokhara / Pokhara
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
What's Included
- Airport/bus station pick-up and drop-off in Pokhara
- Tourist-class hotel accommodation in Pokhara (2 nights, including breakfast)
- Teahouse accommodation throughout the trek (9 nights)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trek leader/guide
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