Trip code | 135 |
Package name | Annapurna Base Camp Trek |
Duration | 13 |
Max. elevation | 4134 m |
Level | Easy |
Transportation | All ground transportation & Domestic Flight |
Accomodation | Guesthouse |
Starts at | Kathmandu |
Ends at | Nayapull |
Trip route | Kathmandu-Pokhara -Ghorapani pun Hill -Annapurna Base Camp |
Cost | USD 800 per person |
"Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Nepal on the legendary Annapurna Base Camp trek. Join our Annapurna base camp trek 2023/2024 departure and trek with native guides & porters. We have the best Annapurna base camp trek cost with top-notch service, guaranteed departure, and 100% safety assurance."
Nestled in the western reaches of Nepal, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft) is the tenth-highest mountain in the world. The Annapurna base camp trek is a multiple-day hike through rhododendron forests and remote villages to the lap of Mt. Annapurna. If you're looking for a trek that truly showcases the beauty of the Himalayas, then the Annapurna Base Camp is definitely one to consider.
From the very start of the Annapurna base camp hike, you'll be surrounded by stunning Himalayan mountains, making it no surprise that this 13-day-long adventure is a popular choice for many travelers. One of the best things about the Annapurna base camp trekking is that it's suitable for all age groups and abilities.
Whether you're traveling with children or simply looking for a moderate trek, the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal offers a comfortable walking experience with plenty of breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion.
As you ascend towards the Annapurna Base Camp via the Machhapuchhre Base Camp, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the majestic Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft), Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/24,787 ft), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), etc.
But it's at the Annapurna Sanctuary where you'll truly be blown away. Here, you'll enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the snow-clustered mountains, with a near-vertical view of the south face of the Annapurna towering above. And you will enjoy several gorgeous sunrises and sunsets during the Annapurna base camp trek 13 days.
As you trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area, you'll traverse a diverse landscape that includes verdant oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, and green rice paddies. Against the backdrop of misty valleys and rolling hills, the snow-capped peaks sparkle like diamonds. Along the Annapurna base camp trail, you'll come across picturesque Gurung and Magar villages and experience mountain life.
From the starting point of the Annapurna base camp trek at Nayapul (1,070 m/3,510 ft), the trail ascends to Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,525 ft) and continues to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft). The elevation gain is high, so you have to be careful of altitude sickness and make sure to acclimatize properly.
The Annapurna base camp trek is considered a moderate trek in terms of difficulty, but it still requires a certain level of physical fitness and preparation. The Annapurna base camp trek route can be challenging at times, with steep ascents and descents. The trek involves crossing several suspension bridges over deep gorges, walking through lush forests, and climbing stone steps.
Altitude sickness can be a concern during the Annapurna base camp trekking, especially as you gain altitude. The base camp is at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), which can cause altitude sickness in some trekkers. Therefore, acclimatize properly and take rest days to adjust to the altitude. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and eating a balanced diet can also help prevent altitude sickness.
The Annapurna base camp trek in Nepal requires physical fitness and mental preparation. You should engage in regular exercise and cardio workouts for several weeks before the trek to build stamina and endurance. You can also do some hill walking and practice carrying a backpack to prepare for the trek.
Mental preparation is also important, as the trek can be mentally challenging too. You should be prepared for long days of walking and be able to handle the uncertainty and discomfort that comes with trekking in remote areas.
The Annapurna base camp (ABC) trek and Everest base camp (EBC) trek are two of the most popular treks in Nepal. Both of these treks offer a unique experience, with different landscapes, cultural immersion, and challenges.
The EBC trek is considered more challenging than the ABC trek. The altitude gain in the EBC trek is higher, and the trek requires more physical endurance and stamina. The ABC trek, on the other hand, is comparatively easier and is suitable for beginners.
The Everest base camp trek offers a chance to experience the unique Sherpa culture, including their traditional lifestyle and hospitality. Whereas, the Annapurna base camp trek offers a glimpse into the Gurung and Magar cultures, known for their rich traditions and hospitality. Likewise, both treks offer breathtaking scenery, but they are different in nature.
Nepal is home to hundreds of mountains, including the world's top 8 highest mountains. So, you can do base camp treks to those 8 eight-thousanders mountains. Apart from the Annapurna base camp and Everest base camp, you can do Manaslu base camp trek, the Kanchenjunga base camp trek, the Makalu base camp trek, and the Dhaulagiri base camp trek too.
Likewise, these are some of our other famous trekking packages in the Himalayas- Upper Mustang trek, Langtang Gosaikunda trek, Annapurna Circuit trek, Manaslu Circuit trek, Rara Lake trek, and Gokyo Lake trek.
Spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November) is the best time to do the Annapurna base camp trekking. Whereas, winter (December, January, February) and summer/monsoon (June, July, August) are the offtime for this trek. However, if you can put up with the additional challenges of the offseason, you can trek to Annapurna base camp in winter and summer/monsoon.
Although certain months of the year are more favorable for trekking in terms of weather, it's crucial to be equipped for all possible conditions, no matter when you plan to go. The unpredictable weather conditions in the high Himalayas can bring unexpected snowfall, rain, or storms at any time, and climate change has only made weather patterns more erratic in recent years.
In the mountains, it's always better to be over-prepared than under prepared, as the weather can change rapidly, and you may find yourself in challenging situations. Carrying essential trekking gear like a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, and a warm sleeping bag is also a must.
The months of March, April, and May mark the arrival of spring in Nepal after the long, cold winter months. This colorful season is also considered one of the best times to embark on a trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The weather during springtime is perfect for trekking, as it's neither too hot nor too cold.
The average daytime temperature ranges from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius or 61 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, with a drop of around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius or 27 to 28 degrees Fahrenheit during the night.
The autumn months of September, October, and November are considered the second best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. This season offers trekkers an excellent opportunity to experience clear, crisp skies with high visibility. The weather is dry, and the chances of rainfall are minimal, providing an unobstructed view of the breathtaking Himalayas.
During the daytime, the average temperature ranges from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius or 54 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The mornings and nights can be chilly, while the days are warm and sunny, making for perfect trekking weather. However, the nighttime temperature can drop to 25 to 27 degrees Celsius or 77 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit, so trekkers should be prepared with warm clothing.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a popular and challenging venture in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek difficulty is considered to be moderate. The ABC trek requires a good level of fitness, as you will be trekking for around 10-12 days and ascending to an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) at Annapurna Base Camp.
The trail can be steep and rocky in some sections, and you have to prepare for 5 to 6 hours of walking each day. Despite the standard challenges, the Annapurna base camp trek is suitable for most people with a good level of fitness and some trekking experience.
The trek begins through lush forests and terraced rice paddies, passing through traditional villages and remote mountain communities. As you ascend higher, the terrain becomes more rugged, with rocky trails and steep switchbacks leading up to Annapurna Base Camp. The trek is mostly on well-maintained trails, but some sections can be rocky and uneven, requiring good trekking boots and trekking poles.
Likewise, you may have heard about altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness. If not, usually trekkers suffer from this during high-altitude trekking like the Annapurna base camp. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
To prevent altitude sickness, you have to acclimatize properly by ascending slowly and taking rest days as needed. Drink plenty of water, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and avoid alcohol and smoking.
Annapurna base camp trek is a lodge trek. Lodges serve as a much-needed break, offering comfortable housing and a variety of amenities at an affordable price. Typically established and run by local residents. Many lodges are strategically located at points along the trail where travelers can acclimate to the altitude and immerse themselves in the local communities.
These humble accommodations typically offer wooden beds fitted with basic mattresses, pillows, and blankets. Guests can also enjoy the warmth of a Bukhari-style stove for heating, savor meals in communal dining areas, and even participate in lively musical performances using traditional instruments.
The lodges lining the Annapurna Base Camp trail offer a tempting array of meals, with a menu that boasts an impressive range of options such as Dal Bhat, Momos, Spaghetti, French Fries, and more. If you're wondering what to order, your guide will likely recommend the hearty and nutritious Dal Bhat, which packs a whopping 430 calories per serving.
If you are planning to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal, you will need to obtain two types of permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. You can obtain a TIMS card through a licensed guide, so trekking alone is no longer possible in Nepal.
●As of 2021, the fee for the ACAP permit is NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25).
●As of 2021, the fee for the TIMS card is NPR 1,000 (approximately USD 8.50).
If you are planning to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal, it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance will provide you with peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen events such as illness, injury, flight cancellations, or other travel-related mishaps.
Make sure that the insurance policy you choose provides adequate medical coverage. Look for a policy that covers emergency medical evacuation, hospitalization, and other medical expenses. You can also get coverage for trip cancellation or interruption, which can protect you if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to unforeseen events such as a family emergency, illness, or severe weather conditions.
You will need a valid passport to enter Nepal. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Nepal. If your passport is expiring soon, it is recommended that you renew it before applying for a visa.
Nepali travel visa is available on all entry borders, including the Tribhuvan International Airport. You can also apply for a visa at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country before your trip. The visa fee varies depending on the length of your stay in Nepal. As of 2021, the fee for a 15-day visa is USD 30, a 30-day visa cost is USD 50, and a 90-day visa cost is USD 125.
●A valid passport
●One passport-size photo
●Completed visa application form (which can be obtained online or at the airport)
●Visa fee (which can be paid in cash or by credit card)
Travel tips for the Annapurna base camp trek
●Luggage: We provide a duffel bag to every trekker to pack their heavy trekking clothes and gear. Make sure to keep your weight under 10 kg. Likewise, you can carry a daypack with you to keep the necessary items with you on the trail. Store any additional luggage in the hotel's locker room free of cost.
●ATM: There is no ATM on the Annapurna base camp trail, and the locals do not accept payments through cards. You will need some Nepali rupees for personal expenses during the trek. So, withdraw enough money in Kathmandu.
●Internet: To stay connected to your family, opt to purchase a Namaste SIM card for 4G connections, which tends to provide a more reliable and speedy connection than lodge’s Wi-Fi. However, it's worth noting that even with a SIM card, you may still encounter areas with poor or no signal.
●Charging: Many lodges at higher altitudes rely on solar energy for lighting and power. While this is generally a sustainable and reliable source of energy, it can be impacted by poor weather conditions, particularly during the rainy and winter seasons. To ensure you're not left in the dark and to keep your devices charged, we advise you to bring along a reliable torch light and power bank.
●Tips: Our ABC trek cost does not cover tips for guides, porters, and drivers. If you are happy with their service, feel free to tip them as you wish.
●Hot Shower: Hot showers are available at some lodges along the trekking route, but they often come at an additional cost and may not always be reliable. Wet wipes will come handy.
●Drinking Water: It's essential to drink plenty of water while trekking to prevent dehydration and altitude sickness. Bottled water is available along the trekking route, but it's not always reliable or environmentally friendly. A better option is to bring your own water bottle and use water purification tablets to treat the water before drinking.
●Personal Expenses: You will need extra money to buy services like internet, hot shower, charging, drinks, etc during the trek. Our Annapurna base camp trek cost covers all accommodations and meals. However, you have to pay for any additional service used during the trek. Likewise, you will also need a separate budget for internal light flights, travel insurance, tips, shopping, etc.
Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Our airport representative will welcome you and explain the program further. There are no planned activities for the day, so check into the hotel. Evening welcome dinner with cultural show.Overnight at hotel.
You may use flight which takes 25 min and can use private Tourist Vehicle. Via Tourist bus Its take 6-7 hour’s .Evening boating at Fewa Lake and sightseeing near the lake area. Overnight at hotel.
Trek from Pokhara (915 m.) to Nayapul (1050m.) by car, which takes approximately one and half hours drive. Now you begin your trek from Nayapul (1050m.) to Ulleri(2070m) . Via Birethanti (1065m.) which takes about four hours. The first part of your trek is easy passing through numerous small villages and settlements. O/N at Ulleri.
Today we heading to Ghorepani.First we need to climb steeply for the early 2 hours and then ascend gently passing through and Banthanti, Magar villages. On the way, can see good view of Machhapuchhare or Fish Tail (6997m.), Hiunchuli (6441m.), and Annapurna (7219m.)O/N at Ghorepani.
Early morning trip to Poon Hill (3210m.) to enjoy the sunrise view over Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhare (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), Lamjung Himal (6931m.) and other numerous snowcapped mountain peaks. After breakfast trek Ghorepani to Tadapani (2650 m.). After walking for almost one and half hour you reach Gurung Hill which has the splendid mountain views as Poon Hill. From here you follow small forests with rhododendron, bamboos until you reach Deurali. The trail goes steeply down through deep forests all the way to Banthati. It takes one hour from here to reach Tadapanil After breakfast trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2731m.) through the deep forests of rhododendrons, bamboos and oaks. En route, you frequently see waterfalls, rocks, wild animals, local birds and green scenarios. Tadapani is a small village surrounded by beautiful forests which grants you a magnificent view Himalaya. Treks from Ghorepani to Tadapani its take around 5 hours. O/N at Tadapani
Trek from Tadapani to Sinuwa and it takes about four hours. It is very easy trek by ascending gently all the way through rhododendron, oak and other kinds of dense forests. You could hear different kinds of birds chirping on the way. O/N at Sinuwa.
We are heading to Deurali which takes five hours. You trek gently ascend through forests with varieties of rhododendron and oak trees. The first town you reach is Dovan (2630m.) where there are few lodges and camp sites then we head to Deurali. O/N at Deurali.
Wake up early in the morning then trek to Annapurna Base Camp.We begin our exciting trail towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Firstly we walk ascend gradually and steeply over the mountain side. The trek to MBC to Annapurna Base Camp is a bit strenuous but the spectacular vista of Machhapuchhre rewards our trail very enjoyable. We reach MBC by early afternoon then after our trail continues climb until we reach Annapurna Base Camp. Our trek enables to see the snow boulders melting and forming small streams. We will have sensation views of the near vertical south face of Annapurna towering above the sanctuary. Annapurna Base Camp sanctuary boasts of a dynamic view without anything impeding panorama of the 360 degrees. We will have interesting view of Machhapuchre, Annapurna south, Annapurna I, Hiuchuli and other peaks. Enjoy a warm night’s sleep in comfortable at Annapurna Base Camp.O/N at Base Camp.
We trek from Base camp to Bamboo which takes 6-7 hours. From the Annapurna base camp we retrace our steps to Bamboo. Today’s trek is downhill so it shouldn’t be very difficult. Besides, we will always have the company of the extraordinary landscape to cheer us up. Overnight in Bamboo.
Today we trek to Jhinu Danda which takes 5-6 hours. We continue our trek from Bamboo to Sinuwa then move down and get to Lower Chhomrong. From Lower Chomrong our trail takes ascending on the thousand stony steps and we reach upper Chomrong then we trek down to Jhinu Danda. We can enjoy hot spring while staying in Jhinu Danda. Overnight in Jhandu Danda at hotel.
On our way to Naya Pull from Jhinu Danda we get to enjoy the amazing hill landscape of western Nepal. We will have a lunch on the way. Our trek will end at Naya Pul where we board our vehicle to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by a tourist bus – 6hours. Optional: can use fight which takes 25 min. but cost will be more then this price O/N at Kathmandu Hotel.
Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from the Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage, will take you to the airport and bid you farewell. You will take with you wonderful memories of a truly outstanding experience