Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek takes you into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, offering close-up panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machapuchare (Fishtail) and other major Himalayan peaks. The trek leads to the natural amphitheatre known as the Annapurna Sanctuary and finishes at ABC at approximately 4,130 m / 13,549 ft. The route passes through rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages and a mix of terraced farmland and high alpine terrain.
Location
Annapurna Sanctuary / Annapurna Base Camp, Kaski (near Pokhara), Nepal
Duration
7–12 days (typical itineraries: 7–10 days from Pokhara; extension possible for acclimatization or side visits)
Best Time to Visit
March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) — stable weather, clear mountain views. Monsoon (June–Aug) brings heavy rain and leeches; winter (Dec–Feb) is cold with snow above 3,000 m.
Pricing
Typical guided trek packages range from USD 600–1,200 per person for 7–12 days (includes guide, permits, teahouse accommodation, some meals and transportation from Pokhara). Independent trekkers can expect lower direct costs but must pay ACAP & TIMS permits (~USD 30–50), teahouse lodging (USD 10–20/night), meals, and local transport. Porter hire and tips are extra.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Close-up views of Annapurna I, II, III, IV and Machapuchare (Fishtail)
Sunrise/sunset panoramas from the amphitheatre of the Sanctuary
Rhododendron forests, high-altitude meadows and glacial moraines
Traditional Gurung and Magar villages and cultural interactions
Teahouse trekking experience with varied local cuisine
Optional natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda on the return route
Itinerary
Drive/drive+short trek to trailhead and trek to Ulleri/Tikhedhunga
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1.5–2 hr), then trek 3–5 hours to Ulleri or Tikhedhunga to gain initial elevation.
Trek to Ghorepani
Climb long stone stair sections to reach Ghorepani; good village with teahouses and basic facilities.
Early hike to Poon Hill (optional) then trek to Tadapani
Poon Hill sunrise (if included) for panoramic views; then continue through rhododendron forests toward Tadapani.
Trek to Chomrong
Descend into Modi Khola valley and climb toward Chomrong, a common staging village for ABC approaches.
Chomrong to Dovan/Bamboo
Trail passes terraced farmland and rhododendron forests; river crossings and suspension bridges possible.
Dovan/Bamboo to Deurali or Machapuchhre Base Camp (MBC)
Steeper climb into higher alpine terrain; MBC is a popular high camp option before ABC.
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
Reach the Sanctuary and arrive at ABC (~4,130 m) with spectacular close mountain views; allow time to rest and enjoy the amphitheatre.
Optional sunrise at ABC then begin descent toward Bamboo or Jhinu Danda
Descend carefully; many itineraries include a visit to Jhinu Danda hot springs before returning to the trailhead.
Descend to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara
Long descent to the trailhead; transfer to Pokhara for rest and onward travel.
Extra day for acclimatization, rest or side excursions (Pokhara)
Useful if you want a more relaxed schedule, or to add a day at Jhinu hot springs or explore Pokhara.
Safety Requirements
Permits required: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
Proper acclimatization and gradual ascent to reduce risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Good physical fitness and trekking experience for long uphill days and high-altitude nights
Warm, layered clothing and quality sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures
Travel/trekking insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation (helicopter) and medical treatment
Trek with a licensed guide or experienced group if unfamiliar with the route and altitude
Be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather and limited mobile connectivity
Tips
Pack warm layers, a good down jacket, and a sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C for comfortable nights at ABC.
Stay hydrated and eat regularly; carry water purification tablets or a SteriPEN to reduce single-use plastic use.
Book teahouses or guides in peak season (Mar–May, Sep–Nov) — accommodation can fill up quickly.
Carry cash in small denominations (Nepalese Rupees); ATMs are only in Pokhara and major towns.
Hire a porter if you want to reduce strain — common and affordable option.
Allow extra days for acclimatization if you experience headaches, nausea or breathlessness.
Respect local culture and conservation rules in the Annapurna Conservation Area (no littering, support local businesses).
Consider a pre-trek fitness program (cardio and hill-walking) to make the trek more enjoyable.
