Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks including Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. Unlike EBC, this trek passes through lush rhododendron forests, terraced rice paddies, and traditional Gurung villages before ascending into the alpine zone. The trail offers incredible diversity—from subtropical warmth to arctic cold—all within a single journey.
Duration
10-12 Days
Distance
110 km
Max Altitude
4,130m
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Highlights
- Stand in the Annapurna Sanctuary surrounded by 360° peaks
- Walk through lush rhododendron forests (spectacular spring blooms)
- Experience traditional Gurung village culture and hospitality
- Witness incredible biodiversity from subtropical to alpine zones
- Fewer crowds than Everest Base Camp
- Hot springs at Jhinu for post-trek relaxation
Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel. Trip briefing and gear check.
Fly to Pokhara & Drive to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga
Morning flight to Pokhara. Drive to Nayapul trailhead. Begin trekking through terraced fields.
Trek to Ghorepani
Ascend through oak and rhododendron forest. Ghorepani offers stunning evening views.
Sunrise at Poon Hill, Trek to Tadapani
Wake early for iconic Poon Hill sunrise. Descend and trek to Tadapani.
Trek to Chhomrong
Descend through beautiful forest. Chhomrong is a picturesque Gurung village.
Trek to Bamboo
Descend stone steps to the river, then climb through bamboo forest into the sanctuary.
Trek to Deurali
Continue ascending through bamboo forest into alpine meadows.
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Ascend through MBC to Annapurna Base Camp. Stand in the natural amphitheater.
Explore ABC, Trek to Bamboo
Sunrise at ABC. Descend back through MBC, Deurali, and Bamboo.
Trek to Jhinu Danda
Continue descent. Reward yourself with natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
Trek to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
Final trek through villages to Nayapul. Drive to Pokhara for farewell dinner.
Fly to Kathmandu
Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel.
Safety Information
Well-established trail with good teahouse infrastructure. Altitude sickness risk is moderate with proper acclimatization. Emergency helicopter evacuation available from multiple points along the trail.
Nearest Hospital
Pokhara (2-3 hrs)
Emergency Contacts
- Tourist Police Pokhara: +977-61-462761
- ACAP Office: +977-61-462161
Packing List
Documents
- Passport
- ACAP Permit
- TIMS Card
- Travel Insurance
- Cash
Clothing
- Layering system
- Down jacket
- Fleece
- Rain jacket
- Trekking pants
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm socks (3-4 pairs)
- Camp shoes/sandals
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (-10°C)
- Daypack (30-35L)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Water bottles (2L)
- Sunglasses
Hygiene & Meds
- Sunscreen SPF 50
- Lip balm
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness meds
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
Weather by Month
| Month | High | Low | Rainfall | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8°C | -8°C | Low | Good |
| Feb | 10°C | -6°C | Low | Good |
| Mar | 14°C | -2°C | Low | Best |
| Apr | 18°C | 2°C | Moderate | Best |
| May | 20°C | 6°C | Moderate | Good |
| Jun | 22°C | 10°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Jul | 22°C | 12°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Aug | 22°C | 12°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Sep | 20°C | 8°C | Moderate | Best |
| Oct | 18°C | 4°C | Low | Best |
| Nov | 14°C | 0°C | Low | Best |
| Dec | 10°C | -4°C | Low | Good |