Overview of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

● Duration: 10-12 days

● Maximum Elevation: 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) at Annapurna Base Camp

● Difficulty Level: Moderate

● Best Season: March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn)

● Starting Point: Nayapul (1,070 meters)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 meters)

● Highlights: Explore Kathmandu's vibrant atmosphere, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Pashupatinath Temple.

● Activities: Last-minute shopping for trekking gear, meeting with the guide, and briefing about the trek.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can spend your time exploring the bustling streets of Thamel, enjoying local cuisine, and preparing for your trekking adventure. Ensure that your trekking permits, such as the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), are in order.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 meters)

● Duration: 6-7 hours drive or a 25-minute flight

● Highlights: Scenic views along the Prithvi Highway, beautiful landscapes of rivers, hills, and valleys.

The drive to Pokhara is scenic, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers. Pokhara is a serene lakeside city and the gateway to the Annapurna region. Spend the evening exploring the Phewa Lake, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, or relaxing in one of the many cafes.

Day 3: Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540 meters)

● Duration: 1.5-hour drive and 4-5 hours trek

● Highlights: Trekking along the Modi Khola River, lush forests, and terraced fields.

From Pokhara, a short drive takes you to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. The trail winds through the small village of Birethanti and follows the Modi Khola River. After crossing several suspension bridges, you’ll reach Tikhedhunga, where you'll spend the night in a cozy teahouse.

Day 4: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,850 meters)

● Duration: 6-7 hours

● Highlights: Steep ascent to Ulleri, panoramic views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

The day begins with a challenging climb up stone steps to Ulleri, a large Magar village. From there, the trail passes through rhododendron and oak forests, gradually ascending to Ghorepani. Upon arrival, enjoy spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range from this vantage point.

Day 5: Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,630 meters) via Poon Hill (3,210 meters)

● Duration: 6-7 hours (including the Poon Hill hike)

● Highlights: Sunrise at Poon Hill, panoramic mountain views, rhododendron forests.

Wake up early for a sunrise hike to Poon Hill, one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region. Watch the sun rise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, turning the snow-capped peaks into a golden glow. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, continue the trek through forests and descend to Tadapani.

Day 6: Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170 meters)

● Duration: 5-6 hours

● Highlights: Stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail).

The trail descends through dense forests before gradually ascending to Chhomrong, a beautiful Gurung village. Chhomrong offers excellent views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare, a sacred peak in the region. It is also the last major village before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Day 7: Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310 meters)

● Duration: 4-5 hours

● Highlights: Bamboo and rhododendron forests, river crossings.

From Chhomrong, the trail descends to the Chhomrong Khola and then climbs steeply to Sinuwa. The path continues through dense bamboo forests, offering a peaceful and cooler atmosphere as you make your way to Bamboo for the night.

Day 8: Bamboo to Deurali (3,230 meters)

● Duration: 5-6 hours

● Highlights: Waterfalls, stunning river valleys, increasing altitude.

The trail ascends steadily through bamboo and rhododendron forests, passing through Himalayan Hotel and Hinku Cave before reaching Deurali. The landscape becomes more rugged, with dramatic cliffs and towering rock faces. As you gain altitude, the air gets thinner, and you start feeling the cold mountain breeze.

Day 9: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters) via Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 meters)

● Duration: 6-7 hours

● Highlights: Arrival at Machapuchare Base Camp, panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Machapuchare.

Today’s trek is more challenging due to the high altitude, but the rewards are immense. After a short break at Machapuchare Base Camp, continue the trek through a glacial valley to reach Annapurna Base Camp. Surrounded by towering peaks, this is one of the most awe-inspiring places in the Himalayas.

Day 10: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo

● Duration: 6-7 hours

● Highlights: Descend from the base camp, enjoy the changing scenery.

After a morning filled with breathtaking mountain views, start the descent to Bamboo. The return journey is easier as you lose altitude, but the stunning views continue to accompany you along the way.

Day 11: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780 meters)

● Duration: 5-6 hours

● Highlights: Relax in natural hot springs near Jhinu Danda.

The trail retraces steps back to Chhomrong before descending steeply to Jhinu Danda. After reaching the village, you can relax in the natural hot springs by the river, soothing your muscles after days of trekking.

Day 12: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

● Duration: 6 hours trek and 1.5-hour drive

● Highlights: Last views of the Annapurna range, return to Pokhara.

Follow the trail along the Modi Khola River back to Nayapul. A short drive takes you back to Pokhara, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and reflect on your incredible journey to Annapurna Base Camp.

Day 13: Drive or Fly Back to Kathmandu

● Duration: 6-7 hours drive or 25-minute flight

● Highlights: Scenic journey through hills and rivers, farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

Return to Kathmandu and spend the evening enjoying a farewell dinner, reminiscing about the adventure, and planning your next Himalayan trek.

Conclusion

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, offering trekkers a chance to experience the diverse landscapes of Nepal. From the terraced hills of the lowlands to the breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna Sanctuary, every step of the journey is filled with awe and inspiration. With its moderate difficulty and accessibility, the ABC trek is ideal for those looking to experience the magic of the Himalayas without the extreme challenges of higher-altitude treks. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor to Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek promises a truly unforgettable experience