Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 8 Days
Trip Highlights
Start your trek from Pokhara and walk through terraced fields and traditional mountain villages
Pass through rhododendron and bamboo forests with flowing streams and birdlife
Experience Gurung and Magar culture and warm Himalayan hospitality along the trail
Reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp at 3,700 m with close views of the iconic Fishtail peak
Stand at Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m, surrounded by Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna South
Enjoy sunrise and mountain views inside the Annapurna Sanctuary
Stay in simple tea houses and share evenings with fellow trekkers
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic treks, known for its mix of mountain scenery, local culture, and comfortable trekking pace. Standing at the base of Annapurna I at 8,091 m places you in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by some of the most beautiful peaks in the Himalayas.
The trek begins from Pokhara and leads you through Gurung and Magar villages, terraced farmland, and lush forests before gradually climbing into higher alpine landscapes. Along the way, you will stay in traditional tea houses, enjoy warm meals, and experience daily life in mountain communities.
With steady ascents and well planned walking days, this trek is suitable for anyone with basic fitness and a positive mindset. The route allows time to rest, adjust, and enjoy the surroundings without rushing. As you approach the upper valley, the scenery opens into wide glacial basins and towering peaks.
Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m is the highlight of the journey. Surrounded by snow covered mountains in every direction, the setting feels calm, powerful, and unforgettable.
Whether this is your first trek in Nepal or your next mountain adventure, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a balanced experience of nature, culture, and high Himalayan views.
Itinerary
One day before the trek begins, there will be a short group briefing in Pokhara. The exact briefing time and location will be shared with you after your booking is confirmed. Briefings are usually held at partner hotels such as Hotel Chino Pokhara or Hotel Bodhi Suites, depending on group arrangements.
During the briefing, your guide will explain the trekking route, daily walking plan, accommodation style, and important safety information. This is also a good time to meet your group members and ask any questions about the trek. Your guide will check your trekking gear and help you make any last minute arrangements if needed.
Note: Please bring a passport sized photo, your original passport, and a readable copy of your travel insurance to the briefing. These documents are required for trekking permits and necessary paperwork. You will also sign the trip agreement and non liability form.
Early in the morning, you will leave Pokhara in a local shared jeep and drive toward Kilyu, the starting point of the trek. The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours, passing through hills, rivers, and small villages along the way. The road is partly rough but offers nice views of the countryside.
Once you reach Kilyu, you will begin trekking toward Ghandruk. The trail climbs gradually through forests and stone steps, with views of terraced fields and surrounding hills. As you walk higher, the village of Ghandruk slowly comes into view.
After about 2 to 3 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Ghandruk (1,940 m), one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. The village is known for its traditional houses, mountain views, and warm local hospitality.
Dinner and overnight stay will be at a local lodge in Ghandruk.
After breakfast in Ghandruk, you will begin your trek toward Chhomrong. The trail first descends through stone steps and terraced farmland to reach the river below. This section is mostly downhill and passes through small villages and forested areas.
After crossing the river, the trail climbs steadily uphill toward Chhomrong. This part of the walk can feel tiring, but you will move at a comfortable pace with short breaks along the way. As you gain height, the views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre start to open up.
The total walking time today is about 5 to 6 hours. By afternoon, you will reach Chhomrong (2,170 m), the last permanent village on the Annapurna Base Camp route. The village sits on a hillside with beautiful mountain views.
Dinner and overnight stay will be at a lodge in Chhomrong.
After breakfast in Chhomrong, you will begin the day by descending stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola and crossing a suspension bridge. From there, the trail climbs steadily through forested slopes toward Sinuwa.
Beyond Sinuwa, the path becomes quieter as you enter dense bamboo and rhododendron forests. The walk is gradual and shaded, making it a comfortable trekking day.
After about 5 to 6 hours of total walking, you will arrive at Bamboo (2,310 m), a small settlement surrounded by forest. Dinner and overnight stay will be at a local lodge in Bamboo.
After breakfast in Bamboo, you will continue your trek deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail climbs gradually through dense bamboo and rhododendron forest, following the Modi Khola upstream. The surroundings feel quieter as you move further into the valley.
You will pass through small settlements such as Dovan and Himalaya, where you can stop for short breaks and lunch along the way. As you gain altitude, the forest slowly thins and the valley begins to open up.
The final stretch to Deurali is more exposed and feels cooler. You will walk carefully, especially in narrow sections of the trail. After about 5 to 6 hours of walking, you will reach Deurali (3,230 m).
After breakfast in Deurali, you will continue trekking higher into the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail follows the Modi Khola and gradually climbs through a wide and open valley. The landscape starts to change as trees become fewer and the surroundings feel more alpine.
As you walk higher, you will begin to see the first close views of Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail, rising sharply above the valley. The trail remains steady and the walking pace is slow and comfortable to help with altitude adjustment.
After about 4 to 5 hours of walking, you will arrive at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m). This is a beautiful resting place surrounded by Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
Dinner and overnight stay will be at a lodge in Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
After breakfast at Machhapuchhre Base Camp, you will begin the final walk to Annapurna Base Camp. The trail climbs gently through the wide glacial valley of the Annapurna Sanctuary. As you move forward, the mountains slowly surround you from all sides.
The walk today is shorter but very rewarding. Along the way, you will see Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre standing close above the valley. The path is mostly gradual, allowing you to walk at a relaxed pace while enjoying the views.
After about 2 to 3 hours of walking, you will reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). The base camp sits in a natural amphitheater of high peaks and offers a unique mountain atmosphere. You will have time to explore the area and enjoy the scenery.
Dinner and overnight stay will be at a lodge in Annapurna Base Camp.
After breakfast at Annapurna Base Camp, you will begin your descent out of the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail follows the same route back through Machhapuchhre Base Camp and down the Modi Khola valley. Walking downhill feels easier as you lose altitude, but you will still move at a steady pace.
You will stop for lunch along the way, usually at Machhapuchhre Base Camp or Deurali, before continuing the descent through open valleys and forested sections. The surroundings slowly change as trees begin to appear again.
After about 6 to 7 hours of walking, you will reach Bamboo (2,310 m). Dinner and overnight stay will be at a lodge in Bamboo.
After breakfast in Bamboo, you will begin your final day of trekking. The trail first climbs gradually to Sinuwa (2,360 m) and then descends on stone steps toward the Chhomrong Khola. After crossing the suspension bridge, you will make a short uphill walk to Chhomrong (2,170 m), where you can stop for tea or an early lunch.
From Chhomrong, the trail continues descending through forested paths and stone steps to reach Kilyu (1,380 m). This marks the end of the trekking section of the journey.
At Kilyu, you will board a local shared jeep for the drive back to Pokhara (820 m). The drive takes about 5 to 6 hours, following the Modi Khola valley and passing through Nayapul before reaching the city.
This day officially marks the end of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Map
Packing List
Upper Body
- Warm jacket (down or thick fleece)
- Light jacket or rain jacket (windproof and waterproof)
- Trekking shirts (2 to 3, quick dry)
- Thermal top
- Warm hat or beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Gloves (1 light pair, 1 warm pair)
Lower Body
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- Thermal pants or leggings
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking boots
- Trekking socks
- Sandals or flip flops
Undergarments
- Quick dry underwear
- Sports bras (women)
First Aid and Medications
- Band-aids
- Altitude sickness medicine (if prescribed)
- Electrolyte packets
- Your personal medicines (bring extra)
Other Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Polarized Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
We will carry the medicines and first-aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring additional items based on your personal preferences and the specific conditions of the trip.
Inclusions
What's Included In This Trip?
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) & Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
An experienced, licensed, and insured trekking guide who leads the trek and supports you throughout the journey.
7 nights of teahouse or mountain lodge accommodation during the trek.
Round-trip travel by local shared jeep between Pokhara and the trek starting point.
Your guide is trained to manage altitude related issues and coordinate support in case of illness or emergency.
Your guide is fully covered with travel and evacuation insurance during the trek.
Route planning, daily coordination, and on-trail assistance so you can focus on the trekking experience.
Permits
Experienced Guide
Accommodation on the Trail
Ground Transportation
Emergency Support
Insurance for Your Guide
Trek Coordination and Support
What's Excluded In This Trip?
Meals and drinks are not part of the base package
You may either add a meal plan in advance or pay directly at teahouses during the trek.
Porter service is not included in the base package.
You can add a porter during booking if you prefer support with your backpack.
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is mandatory and must be arranged by you.
Personal expenses such as hot showers, charging, WiFi, and snacks are not included.
Tipping is part of the trekking culture in the mountains and is appreciated by guides and porters as recognition of their work.
Meals During the Trek (Optional Add-on)
Porter Services (Optional Add-on)
Your Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Tips for Staff
Fixed Departures
FAQs
General Trek Information
It is a moderate trek that doesn’t require technical climbing experience. Expect 5–7 hours of walking per day with some steep ascents and descents.
Yes. Many first-time trekkers complete this trek comfortably with a reasonable level of fitness and proper preparation.
The standard itinerary is 8 days, starting from Pokhara. It includes gradual climbs, beautiful villages, and enough time for acclimatization.
Yes. Many trekkers join the Annapurna Base Camp trek as solo travelers. You will be placed in a fixed departure group and supported by a licensed guide.
Permits & Trekking Requirements
The Annapurna Base Camp trek requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card (optional). These permits are mandatory for all trekkers.
Yes. All required trekking permits are included in the package and arranged in advance, so you don’t need to worry about paperwork
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory and should cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Accommodation & Meals
Yes. All teahouse accommodation during the trek is included in the base package and arranged in advance to ensure availability and a smooth journey.
No. Accommodation is fully managed by Nepwise. Your stays are pre-booked, so you don’t need to worry about finding rooms on the trail.
Meals are not included in the base package. You can either add a meal plan in advance or choose and pay directly at teahouses during the trek based on your preference.
Food costs depend on what and how much you choose to eat. As a general estimate, you can expect to spend around USD $25-$30 per day on meals during the trek.
Guides, Porters & Group Details
Yes. Every Nepwise trek includes a licensed, experienced local guide. Their role is to support you throughout the trek, and their cost is fully included in the base package.
Each fixed departure group has a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 trekkers.
Porters are not included in the base package. If you’d like help carrying your backpack, you can add a porter during booking.
Yes. If you prefer a private trek, different dates, or a customized itinerary, you can contact us directly or submit your request through our trek planner.
What You Pay & What to Budget
The base price covers your essential trekking logistics, including a licensed guide, permits, transportation, and accommodation during the trek.
Meals, personal expenses (such as hot showers, WiFi, charging), porter services, and tips are not included.
These can either be added in advance or managed directly on the trail depending on your preference.
In addition to the base package, you should budget for meals and personal expenses on the trail, as accommodation is already included.
These vary by individual, but as a general estimate, you can expect to spend around USD $30–$40 per day, depending on your choices and comfort level.
Yes. Most teahouses on the trail do not accept cards or digital payments, so it’s recommended to carry enough cash for your daily expenses.
No. Nepwise does not hide costs. All expected expenses are explained clearly before booking.
Health, Safety & Altitude
Altitude sickness is possible on any high-altitude trek. Our ABC itinerary is designed with gradual elevation gain, which helps reduce the risk.
Your guide monitors the group daily, adjusts walking pace if needed, and ensures proper rest along the way.
If you feel unwell, you should inform the guide immediately. Depending on the situation, the guide may recommend rest, a change in pace, descending to a lower altitude, or arranging medical support if necessary.
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. This ensures you are protected in case of illness or unexpected situations in the mountains.
Experience & Local Culture
Yes. The ABC trail passes through Gurung and Magar villages, where you stay in local tea houses, eat home-style meals, and see everyday life in the mountains.
Nepwise works closely with local lodges, guides, and service providers to organize your trek responsibly.
While your accommodation is arranged in advance, you still spend directly on meals and personal extras during the trek, supporting local communities along the way.
Tipping is a chr, but it is a meaningful way to appreciate good service. If you choose to tip, your guide can offer general guidance based on local customs.
If you need to cancel your trip, our refund policy follows a simple step-by-step process. Make sure to check the terms before finalizing your plans.Learn more
