An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 12 Days
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most famous trekking packages in Nepal. This 12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, a beautiful Himalayan amphitheater surrounded by snow-covered mountains, glaciers, forests, rivers, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
The trek reaches Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m / 13,550ft, where trekkers stand below the great south face of Annapurna I, the world’s 10th highest mountain. Nepal Tourism Board describes Annapurna Base Camp Trek as a journey into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130m, surrounded by Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre / Fishtail, and Hiunchuli.
This 12-day package begins in Kathmandu, continues to Pokhara, and then follows a beautiful trekking route through Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Jhinu Danda. The route combines Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, bamboo forests, alpine landscapes, glacial valleys, and close Himalayan views.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 12 Days is suitable for active beginners, families with older children, couples, students, nature lovers, photographers, and travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide who want a guided Nepal trekking package with local experts.
Why Choose Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal because it offers a complete Himalayan experience in a manageable number of days. You do not need technical climbing skills, but you still reach a high mountain sanctuary surrounded by some of Nepal’s most iconic peaks.
This trek is ideal for travelers who want mountain views, local culture, forests, rivers, waterfalls, tea house accommodation, and a dramatic base camp experience. The Annapurna region is also one of Nepal’s most diverse and popular trekking areas, with trekking routes ranging from short treks to multi-week adventures.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
- A classic 12-day Nepal trekking package
- A guided Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- A trek to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m
- Close views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli
- A moderate trek suitable for active beginners
- A tea house trekking experience in Nepal
- A scenic trek from Kathmandu and Pokhara
- A cultural route through Gurung villages
- A Himalayan base camp trek without technical climbing
- A package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m / 13,550ft
- Explore the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary
- Close-up views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna
- Visit beautiful Gurung villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong
- Walk through rhododendron, bamboo, and alpine forests
- Pass Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching Annapurna Base Camp
- Enjoy sunrise and mountain views from Annapurna Base Camp
- Relax at Jhinu Danda natural hot spring area
- Experience local tea house accommodation
- Explore Pokhara, the gateway to Annapurna trekking
- Suitable for active beginners and fit travelers
- Perfect base camp trek for international travelers
Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is spring and autumn.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the most beautiful seasons for this trek. The forests are colorful with blooming rhododendrons, the weather is warmer, and the mountain views are often clear in the morning.
Autumn, from September to November, is the most popular trekking season in Nepal. After the monsoon, the sky is usually clearer, the air is fresh, and the mountain views are sharp. Nepal Tourism Board notes that post-monsoon weather is generally clearer, while winter is colder with shorter days.
This trek can also be done in December and February with proper warm clothing, but the higher trail near Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and Annapurna Base Camp can be cold and snowy. The monsoon season from June to August is greener and quieter, but rain, clouds, leeches, and slippery trails are common.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate trek. Trekkers do not need climbing experience, but they should be ready for uphill and downhill walking, stone steps, forest trails, river crossings, and daily walking of around 4 to 7 hours.
The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m / 13,550ft. Because the trek reaches above 4,000 meters, trekkers should walk slowly, drink enough water, eat properly, wear suitable layers, and follow the guide’s advice. Nepal Tourism Board lists the Annapurna Base Camp Trek as reaching 4,130m in the Annapurna Sanctuary.
This trek is suitable for active beginners with good fitness, but it is more demanding than short lower-altitude treks because of the altitude gain and repeated uphill and downhill sections.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP. NTNC’s official e-permit page lists the entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included.
Trekkers also need a TIMS Card. Nepal Tourism Board states that, under the revised TIMS provision effective from March 31, 2023, trekkers on specific protected-area routes must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide and carry a trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card.
Your trekking agency should help arrange all required permits before the trek begins.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
- Day 02: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Day 03: Drive to Nayapul / Siwai and Trek to Ghandruk
- Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong
- Day 05: Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo
- Day 06: Trek from Bamboo to Deurali
- Day 07: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
- Day 08: Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp and Trek Down to Bamboo
- Day 09: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda
- Day 10: Trek to Road Point and Drive to Pokhara
- Day 11: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Day 12: Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You can rest after your international flight and prepare for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
In the evening, there will be a short trip briefing. Your trekking guide will explain the trekking route, walking hours, accommodation, meals, permits, weather conditions, packing list, altitude safety, and important trekking information.
Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful lake city and the main gateway to the Annapurna trekking region.
If you travel by road, the journey follows rivers, hills, local towns, terraced fields, and countryside landscapes. If you choose a flight, you will reach Pokhara quickly and enjoy extra time around Lakeside. After arrival, you can rest, check your trekking gear, and prepare for the walking journey.
Altitude: Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft
Travel Time: Drive approx. 6–7 hours or flight approx. 25–30 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive to Nayapul / Siwai and Trek to Ghandruk
After breakfast in Pokhara, you will drive toward Nayapul, Birethanti, Siwai, or the available road point depending on road conditions. From there, the trek begins through village trails, terraced fields, river valleys, and traditional settlements.
You will trek toward Ghandruk, one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. Ghandruk offers mountain views, traditional houses, local culture, and a peaceful mountain atmosphere. This is a great introduction to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Altitude: Ghandruk – approx. 1,940m / 6,365ft
Trek/Drive Time: Drive approx. 2–3 hours; trek approx. 3–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong
After breakfast, you will leave Ghandruk and trek toward Chhomrong. The trail passes through village paths, forest sections, stone steps, and scenic viewpoints. You may enjoy views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding hills along the way.
Chhomrong is a beautiful Gurung village located on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. It is one of the most important settlements on the ABC route and offers a comfortable overnight stop before entering the deeper valley toward Bamboo and Deurali.
Altitude: Chhomrong – approx. 2,170m / 7,119ft
Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo
Today, the trek begins with a descent on stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola. After crossing the bridge, you will climb toward Sinuwa and continue through beautiful forest trails.
The route enters a more peaceful valley with bamboo, rhododendron, and oak forests. You will continue toward Bamboo, a small tea house settlement surrounded by green hills and forest. This section gives a real feeling of walking deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary route.
Altitude: Bamboo – approx. 2,310m / 7,579ft
Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 06: Trek from Bamboo to Deurali
After breakfast, you will trek from Bamboo toward Deurali. The trail passes through Dovan, Himalaya, and forested valley sections. You will walk beside rivers, waterfalls, cliffs, and peaceful mountain landscapes.
As you climb higher, the vegetation changes and the air becomes cooler. Deurali is located below the high alpine section of the Annapurna Base Camp route. This is an important overnight stop before trekking toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.
Altitude: Deurali – approx. 3,200m / 10,499ft
Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Today is one of the most important days of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. After breakfast, you will leave Deurali and follow the trail toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
The valley becomes wider and more dramatic as you climb higher. You will pass alpine landscapes, glacial streams, and open mountain scenery. From Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the trail continues to Annapurna Base Camp, located in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
After reaching Annapurna Base Camp, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, and surrounding peaks. The feeling of standing in the middle of the Himalayan amphitheater is the main highlight of the trek.
Altitude: Machhapuchhre Base Camp – approx. 3,700m / 12,139ft; Annapurna Base Camp – 4,130m / 13,550ft
Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp and Trek Down to Bamboo
Early in the morning, you will wake up at Annapurna Base Camp to enjoy sunrise over the Annapurna Sanctuary. As the first light touches the snow-covered peaks, the mountains turn golden and the surrounding landscape becomes unforgettable.
After breakfast, you will begin descending from Annapurna Base Camp. The trail returns through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan before reaching Bamboo. The descent is long, but the changing scenery makes the walk beautiful.
Altitude: Bamboo – approx. 2,310m / 7,579ft
Trek Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda
After breakfast, you will trek from Bamboo back through forest trails toward Sinuwa and Chhomrong. After reaching Chhomrong, the trail descends toward Jhinu Danda.
Jhinu Danda is famous for its natural hot spring area near the river. After several days of trekking, this is a great place to relax tired muscles and enjoy the peaceful mountain environment.
Altitude: Jhinu Danda – approx. 1,780m / 5,840ft
Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Road Point and Drive to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will walk from Jhinu Danda toward the nearest road point. Depending on road conditions, your vehicle may meet you near Jhinu, Matkyu, Siwai, or another accessible pickup point.
After meeting the vehicle, you will drive back to Pokhara. This day marks the end of the walking part of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. In Pokhara, you can rest at the hotel, enjoy a hot shower, walk around Lakeside, and celebrate the successful completion of the trek.
Altitude: Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft
Trek/Drive Time: Trek approx. 1–3 hours; drive approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will return from Pokhara to Kathmandu. If you travel by road, the journey follows rivers, hills, countryside landscapes, and local towns. If you choose a flight, you will reach Kathmandu quickly and have extra time for shopping or rest.
After arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy a farewell dinner with the team and share your Annapurna Base Camp Trek memories.
Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
Travel Time: Drive approx. 6–7 hours or flight approx. 25–30 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 12: Final Departure
Your 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek ends today. Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.
You can also extend your stay in Nepal with another trekking package, Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Chitwan jungle safari, rafting trip, Bhutan tour, or Tibet tour.
Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Not Included
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport arrival and departure transfer
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara
- Tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
- Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
- Licensed trekking guide
- Trekking staff support as per group size
- Required trekking permit assistance
- Annapurna Conservation Area route assistance
- Basic first aid support
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- Government taxes and official service charges as per package policy
Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking equipment
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara unless mentioned
- Drinks, snacks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal expenses during trek
- Tips for guide and trekking staff
- Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, road delay, or weather condition
- Additional cost caused by landslide, snow, political strike, road blockage, flight delay, or natural events
- Natural hot spring entry fee if applicable
- Any cost not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
FAQ
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek good for beginners?
Yes, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is suitable for active beginners with good fitness. You do not need technical climbing experience, but you should be ready for uphill and downhill walking, stone steps, forest trails, and daily walking of around 4 to 7 hours.
How high is Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp is 4,130 meters / 13,550 feet above sea level. Nepal Tourism Board lists Annapurna Base Camp Trek as reaching the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130m.
How many days is this Annapurna Base Camp Trek package?
This is a 12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek package including arrival in Kathmandu, travel to Pokhara, trekking days, return to Kathmandu, and final departure.
What is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. Spring is beautiful for rhododendron flowers, while autumn is popular for clear mountain views.
What mountains can I see during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
You can see Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre / Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and other peaks of the Annapurna range.
Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficult?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is moderate. It is not technical, but the route includes long walking days, uphill and downhill trails, stone steps, and high altitude. Good fitness and slow walking are important.
Do I need permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Yes. Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP and a TIMS Card. NTNC lists the ACAP entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included.
Do I need a guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Nepal Tourism Board states that, under the revised TIMS provision effective from March 31, 2023, trekkers on listed protected-area routes need a licensed trekking guide and a trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover trekking up to 4,130 meters and emergency evacuation.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek is in local tea houses or lodges. Rooms are basic but comfortable. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, accommodation is arranged in hotels.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this Annapurna Base Camp Trek as a private or group joining package.
Can I book a private Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Yes. This package can be arranged as a private trek or group joining trek depending on your travel date, budget, and group size.
Can I customize the Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary?
Yes. The itinerary can be customized based on your arrival date, fitness level, travel plan, budget, and interest. You can also combine Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Pokhara tour, or Chitwan jungle safari.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10/03/2026 | 12 Days | Available | USD 10 Days | Book Now |
| 20/03/2026 | 12 Days | Available | USD 10 Days | Book Now |
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Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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USD 980Per Person
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.