Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trip Facts

Duration 8
Trip Grade Easy
Country Nepal
Maximum Altitude 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
Group Size 2-16
Starts Kathmandu
Ends Pokhara
Activities Trekking
Best Time Sep.Oct.Nov. Mar.April. May

Overview

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a trek for those who wish to experience the Annapurna Sanctuary in the heart of the Annapurna region and perhaps the most famous trek in the country of Nepal. Towering high above you will be the dominant peaks of the majestic Himalayas. Trek is also filled with typical Nepalese villages, lush jungle forests, rich local culture, and breathtaking vistas.

To begin the trek a scenic drive takes you from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, an even shorter drive takes you to the start of the trek. Scenic trekking then begins through Gurung and Magar villages, farmland, forests, and many rivers and waterfalls. Hospitality of the local communities will give you an appreciation for the remote areas you are trekking through.

The next stage of the trek takes you into rugged terrain and transforms landscapes into alpine meadows. From this area, climbers and trekkers are rewarded with views of many famous peaks. Among the most famous are Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and many other giants of the Himalaya. The Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 m (13,550 ft) is a trekker’s dream, as it offers a panoramic view of one of the most challenging trekking circuits in the world. The 360-degree views will not disappoint.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is ideal for trekkers with moderate fitness due to its gradual ascent and relatively well developed trekking infrastructure. It is well suited for both novice and experienced trekkers due to the well constructed tea houses located along the trekking paths. The trek provides the opportunity for an authentic Himalayan trekking experience.

The trek goes through Nepal’s largest national park, the Annapurna Conservation Area. The variety of flora and fauna in the region is stunning. Depending on what time you take this trek, you may have the privilege of walking past flowering rhododendron forests, walking next to clear mountain streams, and appreciating the calm remote nature as well as the sounds of the wild.

The team of Sherpa Trailblazers strives to make your trekking experience of Annapurna Base Camp as safe, fun, and memorable as possible. We offer the highest level of customer service and an innovative and well thought out trekking plan. We know appreciate all of the moments on this trek and believe it has the potential to be either a wilderness trek as your first experience in the Himalaya, or an entirely new experience in Nepal. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek has stunning scenery and fascinating cultural experiences and will make you want to return.

Highlights

  • Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and remarkable natural beauty
  • You will be able to see Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
  • You will be able to see lovely rhododendron and bamboo forests, terraced farmland, alpine meadows, and glacier valleys.
  • You will be able to see and experience the amazing culture and hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities.
  • Relax in Jhinu Danda’s Natural Hot Springs.
  • You will be able to walk through various mountain vistas.
  • Explore the diverse animals and birds in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Once you complete this trek, you won’t forget the stunning sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayas.
  • This trek is a great opportunity for beginners and experienced trekkers.

Why Choose Us

Sherpa Trailblazers

As proud members of the Sherpa community, we at Sherpa Trailblazers employ fully aligned members of the Sherpa community who have specialized in various aspects of living in the Himalayas during their lifetime. Our guides provide the highest level of service and professionalism and have an abundance of local knowledge.

It's About Your Safety

We understand safety is the main concern for most travellers. Our guides are trained in first aid and are altitude aware. During trekking, we employ various methods and carry safety aids such as a pulse oximeter, first aid kit and emergency communication devices.

Government Licensed

Rest assured, your trekking experience is our utmost priority and concern. Sherpa Trailblazers holds a full trekking company license and is registered with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA).

Great Communication

Right through your initial inquiry and on the ground during your trip, communication from our staff is professional and catered to your needs.

Positive Impact Tourism

A good trekking experience should always carry a low environmental footprint and empower the local community and economy that you are crossing through. We employ local guides, porters and a trekking team with this in mind.

Transparent Pricing

Our customers come first, so we aim for no surcharges or hidden costs. We clearly outline what is included (airport pick up, government taxes and all services listed in the itineraries) so you can have peace of mind.

Experience Free Nepali and Sherpa Cuisine

As part of your journey, enjoy this delightful free gift of a Nepali and Sherpa cooking experience. You will learn how to make several traditional foods, including momo, dal bhat and thukpa as well as many other regional and cultural delicacies.

Connect With Your Trek

We enjoy showcasing your adventure. Wherever possible, our team will post pictures and provide updates on Facebook and Instagram so your family and friends can follow your travels through the Himalayas.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
3 star hotel in kathmandu - 1,400m
Accommodation: 3 star hotel in kathmandu
Maximum Altitude: 1,400m

A Sherpa Trailblazers representative will pick you up and take you to your hotel after landing at Tribhuvan Intenational Airport. There will be a briefing for your trip and preparations for the Annapuna adventure.

Day 2: Flight to Pokhara (827m), Drive to Jhinu Danda and Trek to Chhomrong
5-6 hrs - local tea house
Travel Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: local tea house
Activities: flight/drive/trek
Maximum Altitude: 2,170 m

A moning flight will take you to Pokhara, from where you will continue on by road to Jhinu Danda. Trek through forested sections and villages to reach Chhomrong, a Gurung village.

Day 3: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalayan Hotel
5-6 hrs - local tea house
Travel Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: local tea house
Activities: trekking
Maximum Altitude: 2,920m

Trek through bamboo and cross a series of suspension bridges. Begin to ascend the Modi Khola where the Himalayan Hotel will be reached.

Day 4: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
5-6 hrs - local tea house
Travel Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: local tea house
Activities: trekking
Maximum Altitude: 4,130m

Alps and the Base Camp of Machhapuchhre will be passed through first before reaching Annapuna Base Camp. Majestic views of the other peaks of the Himalayas will be enjoyed.

Day 5: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
on foot - 5-6 hrs
Transportation: on foot
Travel Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: local tea house
Activities: trekking
Maximum Altitude: 2,310m

Retracing steps from the previous day will be the trek to Bamboo with further descents into the Annapuna Sanctuary.

Day 6: Trek to Jhinu Danda and Drive to Pokhara
trek/drive - 4-5 hrs
Transportation: trek/drive
Travel Duration: 4-5 hrs
Accommodation: 3 star hotel in pokhara
Activities: trek/drive
Maximum Altitude: 830 m

Descend into Chhomrong then onwards to Jhinu Danda. Enjoy the Natural Hot Springs in Jhinu Danda before the drive to Pokhara.

Day 7: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
25 minutes - 3 star hotel in kathmandu
Travel Duration: 25 minutes
Accommodation: 3 star hotel in kathmandu
Activities: flight
Maximum Altitude: 1400 m

The scenic flight back to Kathmandu in the moning will be an adventure in and of itself. Enjoy a day of sightseeing in the city, perhaps a trip to a local market for some last-minute shopping.

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, a Sherpa Trailblazers representative will escort you to the airport to catch your flight, concluding your unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Includes/Excludes

What's Included?

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide and porter support
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trek
  • Tea house accommodation during trekking (twin sharing)

What's Excluded?

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, laundry, etc.)
  • Travel insurance (including emergency rescue)
  • Tips for guide and porter

Packing List

Trekking Equipment

This an assortment of clothing and accessories suitable for trekking and climbing in Nepal. This assortment is designed to highlight what we feel is important for your comfort. We accept that you may have clothing which is equally as suitable that we may not suggest here.

For Head

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Upper Body
  • T-shirts (2)
  • Light and expedition weight thermal tops
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket (optional)

For Hands

  • Lightweight gloves
  • Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
  • Lower Body
  • Underwear (4)
  • Hiking shorts (2)
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
  • Fleece or wool pants
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants

For Feet

  • Thin, lightweight inner socks (4)
  • Thick, warm wool hiking socks (4)
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
  • Gaiters (Optional)
  • Accessories
  • Sleeping bag rated -10C. to -20C (Depending on trekking region)
  • Headlamp (e.g. Petzl Zoom) with spare bulbs and batteries
  • Small pad or combination lock-to-lock trek bag
  • Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
  • Large plastic bags - for keeping items dry inside trek bags
  • Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
  • Thermarest sleeping pad (Only Camping Trek)
  • Water bottles (2)
  • Toiletries
  • Small wash towel
  • Optional items
  • Binoculars
  • Books (Highly Recommended)
  • Compass
  • Playing cards/backgammon/chess set
  • Swiss Knife

Recommended Mountaineering Kit

In addition to the items mentioned above for trekking, the following is a list of the additional specialized items which are required for the trekking peaks.

  • Plastic or leather mountaineering boots, with gaiters and crampons that have been tested for a good fit.
  • Fleece trousers or silhouette
  • Additional mits and gloves suitable for climbing
  • Ice axe, and ski poles (note - ice axes can be rented in Kathmandu)
  • Climbing helmet
  • Alpine climbing harness.
  • 2 x tape slings
  • 2 x screwgate karabiners
  • Descender/abseil device
  • Ascender

Essential Information

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is defined as a trek of moderate difficulty and is therefore appropriate for both fit beginners and more seasoned trekkers. There is no technical climbing required, but trekkers should expect to be walking day after day with the gain of elevation.

Trail Conditions

The entirety of the trek has a well-defined and maintained path. Trekkers can expect to walk through stone staircases, forest paths, suspension bridges, rocky trails as well as alpine meadows. The sections of the path that are around Chhomrong and Sinuwa do have long stretches of both upward and downward elevation changes.

Altitude

Annapurna Base Camp, the final destination of the trek, rests at a height of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). While this is lower than trekking to the Everest Base Camp, trekkers should still prepare for the possibility of mild altitude sickness. To help ward off altitude sickness, trekkers should aim for a gradual gain of altitude and take plenty of water breaks while keeping a steady pace.

Trek Duration

The duration of the trek can range from 7 to 12 days, depending on how the itinerary is laid out. The distance of the trek can range from 70 to 115 kilometres. Trekkers can expect to walk from 5 to 7 hours on most days, but some days may require more time on the path at a distance that is more challenging.

Physical Fitness

The trek is a challenging endeavour and therefore requires trekkers to have an adequate level of fitness. To prepare for the trek, it is a good idea to engage in activities like walking, hiking, jogging, cycling, or other forms of cardio. Being in good shape is also a good way to enhance enjoyment of the trek, but it is not a substitute for the enjoyment of the activity. There is no technical climbing on the trek, but it is still an outdoor adventure!

Experience Level

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek suits a broad range of trekkers from beginners to veterans, individuals to families and even those who prefer to trek in solitude. For a pleasant journey and to learn about and benefit from local knowledge, hiring a professional guide and porter is highly recommended.

Best Time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp trek can be done at almost any time of the year but spring and autumn are preferred.

Spring (March to May)

Spring (March to May) is arguably the most picturesque time to visit the Annapurna region. Trekking is easier, temperatures are comfortable, and the weather stays clear. The blossom of the Rhododendron forests and the unobscured views of the mountains make this the best time for trekking.

Autumn (September to November)

Post the monsoon season, autumn (September to November) is the most favoured trekking season in Nepal. The Annapurna range is exceptionally visible. The trails are dry, temperatures are comfortable, and the weather remains stable throughout the season, making it optimal for trekking.

Winter (December to February)

Winter (December to February) is strikingly beautiful - snow covered landscapes adorn the trails, and the few trekkers who brave the cold are rewarded with solitude. At the high elevations, the trek becomes very challenging, and temperatures can drop severely.

Monsoon (June to August)

During the Monsoon (June to August) season, trails become slippery and trekkers need to prepare for continuous rain. But the forests are lush green, waterfalls are at their fullest, and the route is much quieter. There is a greatly diminished visibility of the mountains.

Food During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

There is a large network of tea houses along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek that makes it easy to stop and eat as you enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The tea houses serve many Nepali dishes, including Dal Bhat. Dal Bhat is so popular because it is inexpensive, tasty, and you often get multiple servings. Other popular menu items include: curries, noodles, rice, and soup. You can also find Tibetan bread, momos (dumplings), eggs, pancakes, and porridge. You can also get a variety of hot drinks and snacks.

Lodges usually offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options if they’re notified in advance. Trekking can put a strain on health, which is why trekkers need to drink boiled or purified water.

Accommodation Along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Tea houses line the trail and serve as lodging along the trek.

Occupancy is normally on a double basis with bedding and simple furnishings included. Bathrooms are communal. In the lower villages such as Chhomrong and Jhinu Danda, there are other services available for a fee such as hot showers and Wi-Fi.

As you trek up to Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and Annapurna Base Camp, the lodges become more basic. Heating is usually available only in the communal dining room, while bedrooms remain unheated. During the colder months, a warm sleeping bag is a good idea.

While the lodges are basic, the tea houses provide Himalayan hospitality, delicious home-cooked meals, and a gathering place for trekkers to share stories.

What Makes Sherpa Trailblazers Excellent?

At Sherpa Trailblazers, we aim for every trek to incorporate more than just getting you from point A to B. Instead, we like to keep you safe, enjoy and remember your journey, with every trek being life-changing. Our company is Nepali-originating and run by Sherpa professionals with an abundance of trekking experience. We wish to educate and inform travellers of the adventure to be had in this culturally and naturally beautiful region of the Nepal Himalayas.

Our government licensed and highly resourceful trekking guides along with our support team want to make your stay with us the best and most enjoyable experience. We research and structure your trek to allow for optimum acclimatization to the environment and will be the most comfortable to you.

Safety comes first for us. We also prefer and keep our group sizes small. You can expect your group size, price and service to be customized to your personal wishes. For us, trekking is our passion and for many, it will be your first time, so we wish to ensure your experience is the best.

With us, you get to travel through the mountains with people who know them and love them, who will ensure your journey in the Himalayas is life-changing. You will not simply be booking a trek.

Permits

Two permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. Both are required for foreign trekkers and support the conservation of the Annapurna Region and the maintenance and safety of the trails.

When you purchase the trek with the Sherpa Trailblazers, we arrange for your permits. Just send us your passport and Nepal visa details, and we will do all the work for you. We set up everything for you for the best first day of your trek.

Route Map

Route map

FAQs

What is the difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty level is Moderate. Trek preparation, trek pacing, and overall fitness level of trekkers (both beginners and fit) can make this trek enjoyable.

What is the highest point of this trek?

The highest point of the trek is Annapurna Base Camp which is at an elevation of 4,130m (13,550ft).

Is this trek meant for experienced trekkers?

This trek is fit for people of all levels as there is no previous trekking experience necessary. However, for an enjoyable trek, some regular walking, hiking, and cardio is necessary to prepare for the trek.

What is the optimal time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The optimal time to do the trek is spring, from March to May and fall, from September to November. The weather is clearer and optimal for peak viewing for mountain explorations.

Are the permits included in the package?

Yes. When you book your trek with Sherpa Trailblazers, we take care of the ACAP and TIMS card permits. Care free trekking.