Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 14 Days

  • Duration 14 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal

Annapurna Base Camp trek is an exhilarating journey to the lap of Mount Annapurna, the tenth-highest mountain in the world. It is one of the most popular treks in Nepal after the Everest Base Camp. The Annapurna Base Camp trek route offers stunning mountain vistas, traditional Nepali villages, and lush vegetation. This 14-day trek is epic and life-changing in so many ways.

In just 14 days, with an elevation gain of under 4,200 meters, the Annapurna Base Camp trek offers a very immersive experience and beautiful landscapes. Starting the trek from Nayapul (1,070 m/3,510 ft), you will ascend and descend through mountain forests and many beautiful settlements. The trail is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, a protected area.

Travelers of all ages can trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. It is also a kid-friendly trek. Note that the ABC trek is not easy, but with a little effort, it is pretty achievable. Moreover, following our Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary, you will hike to Poon Hill and gradually ascend to the base camp. So, trekkers get ample time to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.

If you love watching mountains, sunrises, sunsets, and gorgeous sceneries, you will love the Annapurna Base Camp trek!

Highlights

  • An exhilarating journey to the lap of Mount Annapurna, the tenth-highest mountain in the world
  • A perfect trek for adventure lovers via lush forests, verdant hills, and Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Explore traditional Nepali villages along the trail and get to see the daily life and culture of the locals
  • Witness stunning mountain vistas and diverse landscapes throughout the journey
  • Hike to Poon Hill to catch a gorgeous sunrise and mountain panorama
  • Spend a night in beautiful Ghorepani village, home to Gurung and Magar communities
  • Spend a night at the Annapurna Base Camp in a comfortable lodge
  • Enjoy natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda towards the end of the trek
  • Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, the two biggest cities in Nepal

What is it like trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp?

By joining our Annapurna Base Camp trek 14 days, you will embark on an incredible trip into the Annapurna Himalayas of Nepal. Located in the western part of the country, the trek is legendary and adventurous. The diversity of the trek route in terms of terrain, climate, local communities, and landscapes is phenomenal.

You will start the Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara. It takes around 6 to 7 hours to drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The ride will be smooth and comfortable. The mountains begin to unfold themselves from Pokhara itself. You will take another short ride from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of the trail.

For the first few days of the trek, you will traverse through villages like Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Banthanti, Ghorepani, Chuile, Chhomrong, and Sinuwa. You will hike to Poon Hill from Ghorepani village and descend to Chuile to spend the night. Poon Hill is a very popular viewpoint in the lower Annapurna region. Trekkers witness a gorgeous sunrise and view 20+ Himalayan mountains from here.

The trail goes through the forests of rhododendrons, pine, oak, bamboo, etc. There are various suspension bridges on the way. From Sniuwa, you will ascend to Bamboo settlement and pass by other villages like Dovan and Himalaya. Above the Himalaya, the Annapurna Sanctuary starts. The trail climbs to Deurali and continues to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC).

You will follow narrow, steep tracks. After MBC, the Annapurna Base Camp arrives. The best part is you will get to spend the night here. There are a few lodges at the base camp off of the main glacier. Have a fantastic night here and start the next morning with an enchanting view and warm tea/coffee. You will then retrace the trail back to Bamboo settlement and descend to Jhinu Danda.

After a long trek, you must soak yourself in the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda. Your muscles will feel extremely relaxed. The following day, descend to Nayapul, where the walking part ends, and drive back to Pokhara. Spend the day in this beautiful city and enjoy the tranquility of Phewa Lake. The next morning, you will drive to Kathmandu. You have one extra full day in Kathmandu to explore the city.

Major attractions of the Annapurna Base Camp trek 14 days

Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, the two famous tourist cities in Nepal. While trekking, meet with communities like Gurung and Magar. These are the people who get recruited into the Indian and British armies. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals and see their daily life and practices.

Ghorepani is a very well-known village. You will spend a night there before joining the main ABC trek route. The trail gradually ascends, so you will have a lot of time to enjoy nature. You will see diverse landscapes. The forested hills and lush valleys ascend to barren hills and glaciers.

You will see mountains like the Annapurna range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m/22,703 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), and many more.

During the 14-day Annapurna Base Camp trek, you will explore not just one but two base camps. Right before arriving at ABC, you will pass by Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Mt. Machhapuchhre, or Fishtail, is a virgin mountain in Nepal.

Who can do the ABC trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is for all ages of trekkers. There is no age limit for this trek. You only need sound health and fitness to join this trek. We welcome trekkers from around the world to do Annapurna Base Camp trekking with us. You can do this trek solo or in a group. Solo treks are private treks accompanied by a guide and a porter.

On a group trek, there will be other trekkers as well. If you are in quest of finding an adventurous trip for your family holiday, then look no further. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is the ideal package. Likewise, this trek is also suitable for students, senior citizens, friends, and couples.

Preparation before the Annapurna Base Camp trek

Trekkers who want to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek but are not fit should do a few exercises for 4 to 6 weeks to get physically and mentally ready for the journey. First, strengthen your core and build walking habits.

You can do strength training in the gym and go on regular walks while simultaneously increasing your duration and your pace. Likewise, you also have to improve your stamina and endurance. Activities like running, swimming, hiking, and cycling are recommended.

Annapurna Base Camp trek packing list

You have to be well-packed for a stress-free trek. All trekking clothes, gear, and other essentials are available to purchase in Kathmandu and Pokhara. You will need the following things for the ABC trek:

  • Clothes: Underwear, base layer, thermal layer, trekking shirt & pants, fleece jacket, down jacket, windbreaker/waterproof jacket & pants, dry tees, cotton socks, woolen socks, scarf, gloves, sunhat, beanie, trekking boots, casual shoes/crocs, dry towel, etc.
  • Gear: Trekking poles, daypack, duffel bag, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, water purification table, map, pocket torch, travelers knife, hand sanitizer, etc.
  • Toiletries and first aid: SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, wet wipes, toilet paper, soap/shampoo bar, comb, toothpaste/brush, deodorant, antiseptic cream, band-aid, crack bandage, pain reliever spray, general medicine, electoral powder, insect repellent, etc.
  • Miscellaneous: Adapter, charger, power bank, spare batteries for your camera, snacks, journal/pen, travel insurance document, passport, visa, passport-sized photos, cash, etc.

Are you ready for a lifetime experience?

What is stopping you from joining this life-changing trip to the Himalayas? Talk to our travel consultants and get all your doubts clear. Our team will be available to help you through all the steps of the expedition. With us, you will get the best Annapurna Base Camp trek price and service. Our team's many years of expertise and knowledge about the Himalayas ensure a safe and immersive trek.

You can customize the Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary if you do not like our proposed day-to-day. Likewise, you can also start the Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara. As you can see, we are very flexible and always looking to make any trip with us comfortable for our guests. If you have any questions regarding the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost or package, do not hesitate to contact us.

Bookings for the Annapurna Base Camp trek 2024/2025 are open with us, Himalayak Trekking. Let us curate your trekking venture, and enjoy a hassle-free journey!

Itinerary

*Note: If you want to see Mount Everest up close, you can join Everest Experience Flight. Another great option is EBC Helicopter Flight. Both of these activities take a few hours of your morning.

Trip Plan
Expand allCollapse all

Meet our team at the airport. They'll be waiting for you to welcome you. They will greet you and transfer to the hotel in a private car. The ride will be smooth. Check-in and rest. The remaining day is free. We will catch up later for a trek briefing.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you will travel to Pokhara on a tourist-standard bus. The ride will be scenic and comfortable, with heavenly views of lush hills, rivers, terraced fields, and snow-capped mountains. Upon reaching Pokhara, rest and explore the beautiful Phewa Lake and Lakeside Market. You can do any last-minute shopping for the ABC trek here.

  • Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 205 km/127 miles

You will start trekking today. Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul in the morning, enjoying lovely countryside views. From Nayapul, you will trek through lush forests and pass by villages like Birethanti and Hile before reaching Tikhedhunga. From here, climb stone staircases to reach Ulleri.

  • Max Altitude: 1,960 m/5,430 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 1.5-2 hours drive & 3-4 hours trek
  • Distance: 7 km/4.34 miles

From Ulleri, the trail continues through rhododendron forests and gradually ascends to Ghorepani village. You will pass by small settlements like Banthanti and Nage on the way. The trail is serene, and the mountain views are fantastic. Ghorepani is a lovely village surrounded by mountains.

Mountain views: Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Barha Shikhar, Machhapuchhre, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 2,860 m/9,385 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Distance: 11 km/6 miles

Wake up early on this day and hike to the Poon Hill viewpoint. Enjoy a gorgeous sunrise and a breathtaking mountain panorama. After the hike, return to Ghorepani and have a delicious breakfast. Then, start trekking down to Chuile village. You will trek past Deurali, Banthanti, and Tadapani. The trail goes through lush pine and rhododendron forests.

Mountain views: Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Tukuche, Machhapuchhre, Tukuche, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 3,210 m/10,525 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 13 km/8 miles

You will enter the deep jungle area while walking to Sinuwa. You will trek via dense rhododendron forests. The trail goes through villages like Gurjung and Chhomrong before taking you to Sinuwa. You will cross suspension bridges on the way. The views are excellent as well.

Mountain views: Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

  • Max Altitude: 2,340 m/7,677 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 10 km/6.2 miles

Leaving Sinuwa, you will trek through a forest of bamboo, oak, and rhododendrons. Reach a tiny settlement called Bamboo. From here, you will pass by villages like Dovan and Himalaya. Above Himalaya, the trail enters the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail gradually gets steep and narrow to Deurali.

Mountain views: Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 3,200 m/6,393 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 14 km/8.6 miles

You will make it to the Annapurna Base Camp today, but the day starts early. Leave Deurali after a delicious breakfast and follow a densely forested route that slowly thins out. You will follow a steep, narrow track to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. From here, ascend to ABC. You will spend a night at ABC in a lodge.

Mountain views: Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Barha Shikhar, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 4,130 m/13,550 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 9 km/5.5 miles

Wake up early and enjoy a delicious breakfast while enjoying stunning mountain vistas. After that, you will retrace the trail to Bamboo. Today, you will mostly walk downhill.

Mountain views: Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, Barha Shikhar, Machhapuchhre, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 2,310 m/7,578 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 14 km/8.6 miles

The trail gradually descends through rhododendron and bamboo forests to Jhinu Danda. You will enjoy solitude along the trail. There are natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda. Later in the day, you can enjoy hot springs, which will soothe your muscles and help you relax.

Mountain views: Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 1,780 m/6,393 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 3/4 hours trek
  • Distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles

You will trek back to Nayapul via small settlements and lush forests. The walking part ends here. Take a local jeep and drive to Pokhara, where you will spend the rest of the day.

  • Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 2 hours drive
  • Distance: 15 km/9.3 miles

After breakfast, you will drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, following the same highway. The highway winds around lush hills and rivers, offering excellent views. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can spend the remaining day as you wish.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 6/7 hours
  • Distance: 205 km/127 miles

This is your free day in Kathmandu. You can do whatever you want: visit historical sites, explore local markets, try Nepali delicacies, window shop in Thamel, etc.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will depart from Kathmandu on this day. We would love to get your feedback. Our team will drop you off at the international airport safely and in a timely manner.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
Unable to locate what you're seeking?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Add-ons and Options
  • Single room while trekking: If you want a single room during trekking, add this upgrade to your package.
  • Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu: Explore the historical sites in Kathmandu with an experienced tour guide and get to learn deeply about Nepali history and culture.
  • Everest Experience Flight: A one-hour commercial flight with a guaranteed window seat to enjoy the eastern Himalayan mountain, including Mt. Everest.
  • EBC Helicopter Tour: 4-5 hours day trip. Fly to the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar and have breakfast at the Everest View Hotel. Breakfast expenses are not included in the package cost.

Availability

Select month and year
Departure Date
Price
Status

Be flexible to the ABC itinerary. During the unforeseen circumstances, we may have to make adjustments. If our 14-day Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary does not align with your preference, kindly get in touch with us to customize it.

Essential Info

Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderately difficult. The terrain is not challenging, but long walking hours and high altitude make the journey a bit demanding, especially for those who do not have a habit of walking long hours or getting physical. Beginner trekkers can join the ABC trek. Previous trekking experience is not necessary.

  • Trek distance: Our Annapurna Base Camp trek lasts 14 days and includes approximately 95 kilometers of walking. You will walk 9 to 13 kilometers each day.
  • Daily walking hours: Daily walking hours range from 5 to 7.
  • Tourist infrastructure: The tourist infrastructure along the Annapurna Base Camp trek route is fantastic. Trekkers will have access to basic but cozy lodges and fresh food. Likewise, you will also get services such as charging, hot showers, WiFi, etc. These services may cost you USD 1 to USD 5.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness occurs if you travel to high elevation and your body is not acclimatized. Usually, trekkers who rush and do not follow preventive measures suffer from altitude sickness. Not every trekker suffers from it during trekking.

  • Symptoms: The symptoms of altitude sickness are persistent headache, difficulty in breathing, vomiting, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, loss of appetite, etc.
  • Preventive measures: Stay hydrated and maintain your pace during trekking—at least drink 2 liters of water. Likewise, avoid high consumption of caffeine or energy drinks during trekking. Similarly, do not smoke or drink alcohol. These substances will dehydrate you and increase the risk of altitude sickness.

Travel insurance for the Annapurna Base Camp trek

Travel insurance is essential to join the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Foreigners can only join a trek in Nepal with appropriate travel insurance. You must include helicopter evacuation and medical bill coverage in your travel insurance. We need the insurance documents before the trek starts.

Annapurna Base Camp trek trek permits

You will need the TIMS Card, and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. Our package cost covers the fees of both of these permits. Similarly, our team will obtain the permits in advance on your behalf. The cost of the permits is USD 20 and USD 30, respectively.

The best time to do the ABC trek in Nepal

Spring and autumn are the best times for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Summer/monsoon and winter are off-season for trekking in the Himalayas. However, if you can handle the weather hurdles of the off-season, you can also trek during that time.

  • Spring (March to May): Spring is the season of flowers, vegetation, fine weather, and moderate climate. Annapurna Base Camp trek route is in excellent condition during the spring. Trekkers enjoy stunning mountain vistas and experience a fantastic time in the mountains.
  • Summer/monsoon (June to August): This season has scorching heat, high humidity, and heavy rainfall. The trail condition is not good in these months, and the risk of landslides also increases, which makes trekking a bit unsafe. However, the foliage, waterfalls, streams, and rivers are in their most beautiful form. If you are into bio-diversity and do not mind muddy trails, you can consider trekking to ABC in summer/monsoon.
  • Autumn (September to November): September to November, the post-monsoon time, is the second best time of the year to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. This is the season of festivals and stable weather in Nepal. You will see the rustic charm of the trails, along with stunning mountain panoramas, a moderate climate, and a joyful environment.
  • Winter (December to February): Winter is another off-season for trekking in the Himalayas. The daylight hours get short, and the temperature decreases drastically. The trails are covered with snow. The cold may make the trek difficult, but the empty trails, jaw-dropping winter panorama, and frozen vegetation are nothing less than heaven. We highly recommend experiencing the ABC trek route in the winter season.

Accommodation & food during the trek

During the Annapurna Base Camp trekking, trekkers get simple accommodations and meals. Simple lodges are standard in the mountains. In some villages, there are premium lodges available. You can upgrade by paying extra money. For meals, you get breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking. Likewise, you can buy additional food and drinks on your own. We highly recommend setting aside some money for personal expenses.

  • Rooms: Twin-shared rooms are booked in the lodges. Single rooms cost extra money.
  • Washroom: Washrooms are common in most of the lodges. Western-style toilets are readily available in the villages at lower elevations. As the elevation rises, you will also come across a handful of squat toilets.
  • Services in the lodge: The room cost includes only a clean bed, pillow, and blanket. Services like charging, hot showers, and WiFi cost a few extra bucks. Trekkers are requested to budget some money for these personal expenses, as they are not covered in our package cost.
  • Drinking water: The lodges provide boiled drinking water at USD 1 to USD 3. You can refill your water bottle at a fraction of the cost and use water purification tablets for more safety (they are not necessary).
  • Snacks: There are tea shops along the Annapurna Base Camp trail. However, everything will cost a lot. So, we recommend trekkers pack their favorite snacks, bars, nuts, and other essentials for the journey.