Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 11 Days
11 Days
Moderate Physical training before the tour should begin no later than 2 months before, as you will have a height of 3,000 meters above sea level and more. Hiking is from 6 km daily with an average pace that can be maintained for hours. It is important to have physical fitness & endurance. You will also need the right gear and clothes according to the weather.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Scenic Drive to Pokhara (822m) from Kathmandu (1350m) - 7/8 hour drive
Your journey to Annapurna Base Camp begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a vibrant city at the gateway to the Annapurna region. The 7-8 hour drive along the Prithvi Highway offers views of lush valleys, river landscapes, and glimpses of the Himalayan range. As you approach Pokhara, views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains greet you. Upon arrival, relax by Phewa Lake or explore the lively Lakeside area.
Day 2: Drive to Tikhedhunga (1480m) and Trek to Ulleri (2050m) – 3 hours hike
After breakfast, a short drive takes you to Nayapul, the starting point of many treks in the Annapurna region. From Nayapul, you’ll drive to Tikhedhunga, a charming village where you can enjoy lunch and prepare for the hike to Ulleri. The trek to Ulleri is a gradual uphill journey, crossing suspension bridges and passing through terraced farmlands. After a 3-hour hike, you’ll reach Ulleri, known for its stunning views of Hiunchuli and Annapurna South.
Day 3: Trek to Ghorepani (2874m) from Ulleri (2050m) – 4/5 hours hike
Today’s trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani takes about 4-5 hours through dense rhododendron and pine forests. The trail offers scenic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and you'll pass picturesque villages along the way. Ghorepani, a popular stop on the Annapurna Base Camp trek route, offers panoramic Himalayan vistas and a relaxing atmosphere.
Day 4: Trek to Tadapani (2630m) from Ghorepani (2874m) – 5/6 hours hike
An early morning hike to Poon Hill rewards you with breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, a highlight of trekking in Nepal’s Annapurna region. After soaking in the views, return to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing the trek to Tadapani. The trail winds through lush rhododendron forests with stunning mountain scenery, taking 5-6 hours in total.
Day 5: Trek to Sinuwa (2340m) from Tadapani (2630m) – 5/6 hours hike
After a sunrise view of Annapurna South and Machapuchare from Tadapani, start your day with a descent through rhododendron forests. You’ll reach Chhomrong village after a few hours, where you can pause for lunch and explore this vibrant mountain settlement. The trail then descends to cross the Chhomrong Khola before climbing up to Sinuwa, a peaceful spot with mesmerizing Annapurna views.
Day 6: Trek to Deurali (3230m) from Sinuwa (2340m) – 6/7 hours hike
Your trek today leads through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, with occasional breaks offering glimpses of the Annapurna peaks. The trail involves both descents and climbs, with lunch at Doban, surrounded by the tranquility of the Annapurna sanctuary. As you ascend to Deurali, you’re greeted by captivating views of the valley and distant snow-capped peaks.
Day 7: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) from Deurali (3230m) via MBC– 5/6 hours hike
Today’s journey to Annapurna Base Camp, or ABC, begins with a gradual climb to Machapuchare Base Camp. The trail follows the Modi Khola, with awe-inspiring views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and surrounding peaks. After a break at MBC, continue to Annapurna Base Camp, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. The Annapurna sanctuary offers an unforgettable mountain experience.
Day 8: Trek back to Bamboo (2130m) from ABC (4130m) – 6/7 hours hike
After sunrise views at Annapurna Base Camp, you’ll begin the descent through the sanctuary. Retracing your steps through Machapuchare Base Camp, Deurali, and Doban, you’ll descend to Bamboo, surrounded by lush forests and the soothing sounds of the Modi Khola. This 6/7 hour trek offers a mix of serene landscapes and stunning mountain views.
Day 9: Trek to Jhinu Dada (1780m) from Bamboo (2130m) – 5/6 hours hike
Today’s trek takes you down through bamboo groves and rhododendron forests. After a lunch break in Chhomrong, continue with a steep descent to Jhinu Danda. This village is known for its natural hot springs – a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a day’s trek. The day’s journey lasts about 5-6 hours.
Day 10: Trek to Syauli (1170m) and Drive to Pokhara (822m) – 3/4 hours drive
Start with a gentle descent to Syauli Bazaar, passing terraced fields and Gurung villages along the way. After 3-4 hours, you’ll reach Syauli, where you’ll board a vehicle for a scenic drive back to Pokhara. Spend the evening by Phewa Lake, reflecting on your adventure through the Annapurna trek route.
Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara – 7/8 hours drive
The journey back to Kathmandu offers more chances to soak in Nepal’s beautiful landscapes. This 7-8 hour drive passes through rivers, valleys, and bustling towns, gradually transitioning from countryside to city life as you approach Kathmandu.
Cost Includes of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Cost Excludes of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Booking
Traveller's Review
In November 2024, I had the opportunity to make use of Contour Expeditions to plan a trek to Everest Base Camp. Communication was great with the planning, accommodation, itinerary and trek information before I left. When I arrived I was met by the team in Kathmandu and they really did a great job in looking after me, including a welcome dinner and briefing session. They had everything arranged, including the flights to Lukla and back, as well as a really experienced, English speaking guide and a friendly capable porter. The trek went without a hitch, teahouse accommodation and 3 meals a day were provided. There seem to be hundreds of trekking and expedition companies in Nepal, however, I would be careful to do your research and make sure you choose a experienced company like Contour Expeditions. I will definitely be back to do another trek soon and would have no hesitation to make use of them again. Thank you Contour Expeditions for the fun, memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is revered as one of the most rewarding experiences of trekking in Nepal. This moderately challenging trek leads you through diverse landscapes, including terraced rice fields, lush rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows. Along the way, you encounter traditional Gurung and Magar villages, which offer insights into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Is Annapurna Base Camp trek difficult?
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is moderately difficult, requiring basic fitness but no technical skills. Challenges include high altitude, steep ascents, and unpredictable weather. The trek takes 7-12 days, with varied terrain and long walking hours. However, beginners can complete it with proper preparation, including fitness training, acclimatization, and good pacing throughout the journey.
Which is the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp?
The best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the weather is mild, and the blooming rhododendrons add beauty to the trek. Autumn offers clear skies and stunning mountain views.