Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 13 days

Trekking and Hiking

Duration

13 Days Trip

Meals

12B, 10L, 12D

Start Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Style

Guided Trekking Adventure

Max. Altitude

4,130m / 13,550 ft. (Annapurna Base Camp)

Trip Grade

Moderate

Trek Distance

~110 km round trip (depending on route)

Lodging

Teahouses (Mountain Lodges), Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Trip overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and most visited treks in Nepal. The 13-day journey takes you from the bustling cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara into serene mountain regions, where each step offers fresh perspectives and unforgettable encounters. The walk begins through terraced fields and small farming villages, then moves into forests of rhododendron and bamboo that are especially colorful in spring. As you pass through Gurung and Magar villages, you’ll get a glimpse of local culture and daily life in the Himalayas.
The higher you climb, the more dramatic the landscape becomes. Hills and forests give way to rugged cliffs, glacial rivers, and the stunning backdrop of snow-covered peaks. The highlight of the trek is reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), where you stand surrounded by a circle of mountains, including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. Watching sunrise from here, with golden light spreading across the peaks, is something that stays with trekkers long after they return home.
On the way back, a stop at the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda offers a chance to relax before finishing the trek. Nights are spent in cozy teahouses, where you enjoy warm meals and the company of fellow trekkers. The route is considered moderately challenging, but anyone with reasonable fitness and the right spirit can do it.
This trek is not only about reaching the base camp but also about enjoying the villages, landscapes, and quiet moments along the way. The itinerary has been carefully designed to give you enough time to adjust, explore, and enjoy. This Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not just a travel package; it’s the combination of environment, culture, and careful preparation that makes the trek a memorable and comprehensive experience.

Trip Highlights

  • Trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to diverse flora, fauna, and landscapes.
  • Reach the iconic Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
  • Enjoy panoramic sunrise views from Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and ABC.
  • Walk through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, especially colorful in spring.
  • Experience the culture and hospitality of Gurung and Magar villages, including Ghandruk and Chhomrong.
  • Relax at the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda.
  • Day to Day Itinerary:

Itinerary

  • Day 01
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,539 ft.)

    You will arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal. Once you arrive, our representative will be holding cards with your name to welcome you and drive you to the hotel.
    Upon reaching the hotel, you will get refreshed and rest. Or you can explore Thamel, the liveliest area in Kathmandu. Also, ensure all the needed gear is ready.
    Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Day 02
    Fly to Pokhara (820m) and drive to Ghandruk (1,940m)

    A scenic morning flight takes you to Pokhara, with spectacular Himalayan views along the way. From Pokhara, you’ll drive through picturesque countryside to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village with incredible views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchhre (Fishtail). In the evening, you can stroll through the stone-paved lanes and experience the rich culture of the Gurung community.
    Overnight in Ghandruk.

  • Day 03
    Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m)

    The trek begins with ascents and descents through terraced fields and rhododendron forests. Crossing suspension bridges and streams, you’ll gradually climb towards Chhomrong, a charming village offering close-up views of Annapurna South and Machapuchhre.
    Overnight in Choomrong.

  • Day 04
    Trek to Dovan (2,600m)

    Today, you will start the trek by descending to the Chhomrong Khola and crossing the bridge. We will then ascend through bamboo and oak forests. You’ll walk down quiet woodland paths, pass through Sinuwa and Bamboo, and reach Dovan.
    Overnight in Dovan.

  • Day 05
    Trek to Deurali (3,230m)

    The trail continues today along the Modi Khola River and through verdant woods, with cliffs and waterfalls surrounding it. The ascent intensifies as you approach Deurali, a small community surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
    Overnight in Deurali.

  • Day 06
    Trek to Annapurna Base Camp -ABC (4,130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC)

    Today is the best day to reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp and witness a close-up view of the sacred Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). You will enjoy the view and capture the frames, then steadily ascend to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks, including Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Machapuchhre, and Annapurna South. The sunset view from ABC is unforgettable.
    Overnight in ABC.

  • Day 07
    Trek to Bamboo (2,345m)

    After witnessing a magical sunrise over the Annapurna Massif, you begin the descent, retracing your steps back through Deurali and Dovan to Bamboo. The lush forest surroundings make the descent refreshing and peaceful.
    Overnight in Bamboo.

  • Day 08
    Trek to Jhinu Danda (1,780m)

    The trail continues downhill through forests and small settlements until you reach Jhinu Danda, famous for its natural hot springs. In the evening, you can relax in the warm pools by the river – a perfect treat after several trekking days.
    Overnight in Jhinu Danda.

  • Day 09
    Trek to Landruk (1,565m) or Tolka (1,700m)

    Today is a relatively easy day with a scenic trek through terraced farmlands and Gurung villages. Depending on pace and preference, you’ll stop at either Landruk or Tolka, both charming villages with beautiful views of the Annapurna range.
    Overnight in Tolka or Landruk.

  • Day 10
    Trek to Australian Camp (2,050m) via Pothana

    The trail ascends gently through forests and meadows to Australian Camp, a famous vantage point offering panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal. The serene atmosphere here is perfect for a relaxing evening.
    Overnight in Australian Camp.

  • Day 11
    Trek to Kande and drive to Pokhara & sightseeing

    A short descent brings you to Kande, where a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara. After checking into your hotel, enjoy sightseeing around Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, or relax by the lakeside.
    Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Day 12
    Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu and rest/sightseeing

    After breakfast, take a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for rest, last-minute shopping, or exploring cultural highlights such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, or Kathmandu Durbar Square.
    Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Day 13
    Departure

    This day is the day you left for your home.
    After breakfast, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or strolling around. We will ensure you arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight. We bid farewell with beautiful memories of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and in the hope of meeting again, we separate.

Trip Includes:

  • Airport picks up and drops off.
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu).
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card fees.
  • Accommodation in teahouses during the trek, hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Professional trekking guide and porter (1 porter for two guests).
  • All government taxes.

Trip Excludes:

  • International airfares.
  • Nepal entry visa fees.
  • All personal expenses, including alcohol & other beverages, trekking equipment, travel insurance, and more.
  • Extra expenses during the trek, like hot shower charge, battery charging, Wi-Fi, and others.
  • Money gratitude for the trekking guides and porters.
  • Excess baggage of more than 15 kg for the Pokhara flight.
  • Additional hotel stays in Kathmandu or Pokhara if not on the planned itinerary.
  • All that are not mentioned in the includes.
Starting From

USD 1,700

per person

No. of people Price per person
2-5 pax USD 1,550
6-10 pax USD 1,400

Speak to an Expert

Matt Culbertson image 10

Trekking Expert

Nepal

WhatsApp +9779841603796

Additional Information:

Some important hints:

  • Scan VISA cards, passports and other critical documents to phone or email for easy access.
  • There will be one porter between two trekkers, carrying a maximum of 25 kg (12 kg max. each) in a supplied soft duffel bags.
  • Please keep packing to a minimum and let; 12/15 kg if possible.
  • Each trekker to carry water, jacket, fleece, camera and daily needs in a small back-pack.
  • Most toilets on trek will be traditional squat toilets, with no toilet paper because local people wash themselves with their left hand and water, then wash their hands really well afterwards. Having some hard soap or hand-sanitizer is obviously a good idea. It’s advisable to bring some wet wipes or toilet paper but discard it in the bin or bring the used paper with you in zip lock bags to be polite as throwing it down the hole is not advised.
  • If you can’t do without technology, think about bringing a camera or phone (with extra storage/batteries), charging cable (and universal plug adapter), power bank (solar optional), and offline trekking map app (Maps.me, Gaia, GPS).
  • You cannot drink water from the tap, anywhere in Nepal, not even brush your teeth with it! Bottled water is universally available, but it is not environmentally sustainable (think millions of plastic bottles that are not recycled).
  • Money exchange is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. So, when you arrived in Kathmandu you can easily change the USD in NPR.

Clothing and accessories on trek

  • Small back pack with thin pack liner and rain-cover
  • Beanie
  • Sun hat
  • Balaclava, buff or neck gaiter
  • Fleece or wool gloves
  • Windproof outer gloves
  • Socks
  • Undies
  • Polyprop/merino long-sleeved
  • Top and leggings for walking
  • Polyprop/merino long-sleeved
  • Top and leggings for sleeping
  • Polyprop/merino short-sleeved
  • Top for walking
  • Lightweight hiking shorts (lower altitude)
  • Lightweight trekking trousers (evening)
  • Polar fleece
  • Down jacket
  • Waterproof windproof raincoat
  • Boots with ankle support (well-worn-in)
  • Ultra-lightweight EVA plastic
  • Sandals (evenings)

Other

  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sunglasses (snow)
  • Notebook & pen
  • Reading glasses

Accomodation

Hotel Tibet

Hotel Tibet

Hotel Tibet, a family-run boutique hotel that have blended traditional Tibetan designs with a touch of modern simplicity.

Transportation

Tourist Bus

Tourist Bus

We provide professional Luxury Tourist Bus services designed for large groups, corporate retreats, and organized tours. Our fleet features modern, high-capacity buses equipped with comfortable reclining seats, full air conditioning, and wide windows for a premium sightseeing experience. With spacious under-carriage compartments for luggage and experienced drivers at the wheel, we ensure a safe, smooth, and relaxing journey on all major highways. Whether you are traveling across the city or across the country, our bus service offers the perfect blend of reliability, comfort, and affordability for your entire group.

Toyota Hiace

Toyota Hiace

Our Toyota Hiace service offers the perfect balance of speed, comfort, and flexibility for medium-sized groups and families. Known for its reliability and agility, the "Jumbo" Hiace provides a fast and efficient way to reach your destination, easily navigating both smooth highways and narrower mountain roads. With a high-roof design for extra headroom, air-conditioned interiors, and a private "door-to-door" service, we ensure a premium travel experience that gets you there ahead of the crowd.

Scorpio

Scorpio

Our Mahindra Scorpio 4WD service offers the ultimate combination of power, durability, and rugged luxury for explorers and small groups. Engineered to conquer the demanding terrain of the Himalayas, the Scorpio provides a robust and dependable way to navigate steep inclines, unpaved tracks, and challenging weather conditions. With its high ground clearance, heavy-duty suspension, and powerful 4x4 capabilities, our private "door-to-trailhead" service ensures you reach your destination safely and comfortably, no matter how remote. Featuring an ergonomic cabin, climate control, and ample space for expedition gear, we deliver a high-performance travel experience designed to get you deep into the heart of the mountains where others cannot follow.

Trip FAQs:

Speak to an Expert

Matt Culbertson image 10

Trekking Expert

Nepal

WhatsApp +9779841603796

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