Highlight
Stand in the Annapurna Sanctuary - an amphitheater of peaks
Diverse landscapes from subtropical to alpine
Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Classic Himalayan Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you right into the heart of the Annapurna massif.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) is one of the most popular treks in Nepal.
The route runs Kathmandu to Kathmandu, covering 90 km across 13 days with a highest point of 13,550 ft. It is graded moderate, which makes it a strong fit for travellers who are comfortable walking a full day but do not need prior technical experience.
Departures run in fixed monthly batches of 4-12 persons, led by certified trip captains carrying a first-aid kit and oxygen on the high sections. The best window is March - May, September - November.
Why travellers love it
Day wise plan
A complete day-wise plan for Annapurna Base Camp Trek covering drives, trail sections, altitude gain, meals, and overnight stays from start to finish.
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1.5 hrs). Start trekking.
The famous Ulleri stairs - 3,500 stone steps through rhododendron forest.
Early morning hike to Poon Hill (10,530 ft) for sunrise.
Descend through forests and cross the Kimrong Khola.
Descend to Chhomrong Khola and ascend through bamboo forests.
The most exciting day! Trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
Descend through the sanctuary to Bamboo.
Final day of trekking. Reach Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara.
Itinerary route map
2-stop route — Pokhara → Annapurna Base Camp. Dashed gray = road transfer · solid red = trekking.
Text route list (accessible alternative to the map)
Elevation profile
Distance-based altitude chart for Annapurna Base Camp Trek using verified trek segment distances. Hover or drag across the profile to explore each stage.
| Day | Location | Altitude | Distance | Duration | Δ from prev. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Nayapul to Tikhedhunga | 4,770 ft | 8 km | 4-5 hrs | — |
| Day 2 | Ghorepani | 9,350 ft | 10 km | 6-7 hrs | +4,580 ft |
| Day 3 | Poon Hill to Tadapani | 8,850 ft | 12 km | 7-8 hrs | -500 ft |
| Day 4 | Chhomrong | 7,100 ft | 8 km | 5-6 hrs | -1,750 ft |
| Day 5 | Himalayan Hotel | 9,600 ft | 10 km | 6-7 hrs | +2,500 ft |
| Day 6 | Annapurna | 13,550 ft | 10 km | 6-7 hrs | +3,950 ft |
| Day 7 | Bamboo | 7,600 ft | 16 km | 7-8 hrs | -5,950 ft |
| Day 8 | Nayapul to Pokhara | — | 14 km trek + drive | 6 hrs trek | — |
Inclusion & exclusion
A detailed overview of everything included in your Annapurna Base Camp Trek package — stays, meals, permits, transport, and trek support — along with the costs you should plan for separately.
Inclusions
Exclusions
- Bag offloading is charged at ₹1,600 per bag.
- Maximum weight per offloaded bag should not exceed 10 kg.
- All package prices are quoted before 5% GST.
Safety Precautions and Protocols
Essential safety measures for Annapurna Base Camp Trek — from acclimatization to weather awareness and emergency protocols.
Acclimatization
- Spend time at the base camp or starting point before ascending
- Follow “climb high, sleep low” with short acclimatization hikes
- Walk slowly; report headache, nausea, or dizziness to your trek leader immediately
Weather preparedness
- Check the forecast; delay if heavy rain, snowfall, or storms are predicted
- Carry waterproof jacket, poncho, and rain cover for your pack
- Start early; reach camp before afternoon weather shifts
Hydration and nutrition
- Drink regularly even when you do not feel thirsty
- Eat balanced meals; carry energy snacks for long trail days
- Avoid alcohol at altitude — it worsens dehydration and acclimatization
Emergency protocols
- Stay with your group and follow trek leader instructions at all times
- Carry personal medications and share medical history with your leader
- Indian Treks carries a first-aid kit; serious cases are evacuated per itinerary plan
Delicious & Nutritious Food During Trek
Fresh, high-altitude meals designed for energy and warmth on Annapurna Base Camp Trek — breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner prepared by experienced cooks.
Breakfast
- Beverages: ginger/masala tea, coffee, juice
- Indian: paratha, poha, porridge, omelettes, upma
- Light options: sandwiches, jam and butter
Lunch & dinner
- Fresh roti, seasonal vegetable sabzi, dal, rice, and paneer dishes
- Hot soup and snacks on arrival at camp
- Vegetarian meals standard; inform us of dietary restrictions at booking
Trail snacks
- Energy bars, dry fruits, and packed lunch on long walking days
- Electrolyte sachets recommended — carry your preferred brand
- Plenty of safe drinking water at camps; refill bottles each morning
Best Time to Visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek runs best during March - May, September - November. Timing changes the trail conditions, the views, and how busy the route feels, so here is what to expect across the year.
March - May, September - November: Peak Season
This is the window Annapurna Base Camp Trek is built around. Trails are at their best, campsites are fully operational, and departures run every month with the largest choice of dates.
- Daytime temperature: 6°C – 12°C
- Night temperature: -5°C – 4°C
- Rainfall: frequent — expect rain most days and slippery trails
- Crowds: high on weekends, quieter on weekday batches
Shoulder Season: Fewer Crowds
Just before and after the March - May, September - November window the route stays open but the groups are smaller. Conditions are slightly less predictable, and the reward is a much quieter trail.
- Daytime temperature: 10°C – 18°C
- Night temperature: 2°C – 8°C
- Rainfall: light and infrequent
- Crowds: low to moderate
Off Season: Limited Access
Outside the main window the higher sections can be blocked by snow, monsoon damage, or forest department closures. Departures are paused and we recommend planning inside the March - May, September - November window instead.
- Trail access: partial or closed on the upper route
- Views: can be excellent on clear days
- Support: limited stays and transport near the base
- Crowds: very low
Things to Carry
Pack for two realities — warm sunshine at the base and cold nights at 13,550 ft. Keep your pack under 10 kg; anything heavier compounds fatigue on long trail days.
Clothing
- Base layer: 2 sets moisture-wicking thermals (top and bottom)
- Mid layer: Fleece jacket + down insulated jacket (600-fill or higher)
- Outer shell: Windproof, waterproof rain jacket with hood
- Trekking trousers: 2 pairs, quick-dry (never jeans)
- Rain pants or poncho for wet conditions
- Warm hat/beanie + cap with brim (sun protection)
- Gloves: waterproof outer gloves
- Neck gaiter / buff
- Trekking socks: 4-5 pairs (merino wool preferred)
- Camp footwear: light sandals or Crocs for evenings
Footwear
- Trekking boots: mid-to-high ankle, waterproof, broken in before the trek
- Gaiters to keep boots dry on snow and wet trails
- Extra pair of insoles in case your boots get wet inside
Equipment
How to Reach Annapurna Base Camp Trek Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Kathmandu, reached through a multi-stage journey. Plan to arrive a night before your batch reporting time.
Reach Kathmandu
Fly into Kathmandu (TIA), then take a domestic flight or tourist coach onward to the trek gateway.
Trains run up to Gorakhpur or Raxaul on the Indian side, followed by a road transfer across the border.
Overnight buses and private cabs connect Delhi and nearby cities to Kathmandu. Book the earliest arrival so you reach before the reporting time.
Kathmandu to Kathmandu
Kathmandu to Kathmandu through the main highway and hill roads.
Typically 7–11 hours depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Shared taxi, private cab, or the operator-arranged Tempo Traveller included in your package.
Withdraw cash and download offline maps at the last major town — connectivity beyond the base is unreliable.
Kathmandu to the trailhead
A short local transfer brings you from Kathmandu to the official starting point.
Reach the base a night before departure so the team can complete document checks and a fitness briefing.
From here you cover 90 km over 13 days, topping out at 13,550 ft.
Policy
Booking, cancellation, refund, and participation terms so you know exactly where you stand before joining Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
| Policy Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Booking Confirmation | Your seat is considered confirmed only after the required advance payment is received. |
| Balance Payment | The remaining amount must be cleared before departure or as per the reporting instructions shared by the team. |
| Transport Selection | Pickup from the base city is applicable only if that option is selected at the time of booking. |
| ID Requirement | Every participant should carry a valid government photo ID for verification and trek administration. |
| Operational Changes | In case of weather, road, or safety concerns, the itinerary may be adjusted for the well-being of the group. |
Departures and route decisions remain subject to weather, road access, local administration, and safety conditions. Final operational calls are always taken in the interest of the group.
FAQ's
Common questions about Annapurna Base Camp Trek — difficulty, altitude, fitness, permits, stays, and what to expect on the trail.
Moderate difficulty. The trek is long but the tea house style makes it comfortable.
Yes, it's mandatory to have a licensed guide in Nepal for trekking.
Why Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Indian Treks
Trusted Himalayan operator for treks across Uttarakhand, Himachal, Nepal, and Kashmir — safety-first teams, transparent pricing, and trekkers who return season after season.
Stand in the Annapurna Sanctuary - an amphitheater of peaks
Diverse landscapes from subtropical to alpine
Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
Stunning sunrise over Annapurna range from Poon Hill
What you can expect
Rental gear for this international trek
Rentals are collected at the base camp and returned at the end of the trek. Pick a size to reserve kit for this departure.
