Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be met by a representative from Family Holidays Nepal who will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. Once you check into your accommodation, you can take some time to rest and acclimate to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Kathmandu is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage, and it's the perfect place to begin your journey.
In the afternoon, you will attend a detailed trip preparation meeting with your trek leader and team. This briefing will cover important information about the trek, including safety guidelines, the daily itinerary, and what to expect on the trail. You will also have the opportunity to review and finalize your trekking gear. The evening is free for you to explore Kathmandu’s lively streets, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or visit nearby attractions such as the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) or Thamel’s shopping areas.
After breakfast, Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours and provides stunning views of the Nepali countryside, terraced fields, and the Trishuli River. Pokhara, a serene city nestled between the Phewa Lake and the Himalayas, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You can explore the lakeside area, take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, or visit the Peace Pagoda for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of Pokhara’s lakeside restaurants, where you can savor local Nepali cuisine.
Today’s trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong will take about 5 to 6 hours. The trail descends through terraced fields and forested areas before crossing the Modi Khola River. From there, you will ascend through a mix of forest and farmland towards Chhomrong, a beautiful village that offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Upon arriving in Chhomrong, check into your lodge and take in the stunning surroundings. Chhomrong is a significant stop on the trek, providing an opportunity to rest and acclimatize. The village has a few lodges and teahouses, where you can enjoy a hearty meal and relax for the night. The evening is perfect for enjoying the clear skies and mountain views.
After breakfast, you will begin your trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. The trail descends through lush forests of bamboo and rhododendron, with occasional views of the surrounding peaks. As you trek, you will cross several small streams and enjoy the serene beauty of the lower Annapurna region.
Bamboo, a small settlement surrounded by dense forest, offers a peaceful environment for rest. Once you arrive, check into your lodge and enjoy a warm meal. The lodge provides a cozy setting for relaxation after a day of trekking. The evening can be spent reflecting on your journey and preparing for the ascent to higher altitudes in the coming days.
Today, you will trek from Bamboo to Deurali, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. The trail gradually ascends through a beautiful forest of rhododendron and bamboo, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As you climb, you will cross several small streams and experience a gradual increase in altitude.
Deurali is a small settlement located at an elevation of 3,230 meters. It provides a crucial stop on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. Once you arrive, check into your lodge and rest. The higher altitude may begin to affect your breathing, so take the time to acclimatize and prepare for the final push to base camp. Enjoy a meal and relax in the cozy environment of the lodge.
Today’s trek is a highlight of the Annapurna Base Camp journey. You will trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp, passing through Machhapuchhre Base Camp along the way. The trek takes approximately 5 to 6 hours and involves traversing through alpine meadows and rocky terrain.
The trail offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) peaks. Machhapuchhre Base Camp, located at 3,700 meters, provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and is a notable stop before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. After a short rest at Machhapuchhre Base Camp, continue your trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
At Annapurna Base Camp, you will be surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Annapurna range. Spend time exploring the base camp and enjoying the panoramic views. Return to your lodge for a well-deserved meal and rest, celebrating your arrival at this iconic destination.
After an unforgettable experience at Annapurna Base Camp, begin your descent back to Bamboo. The trek takes approximately 7 to 8 hours and involves retracing your steps through the beautiful alpine landscapes and lush forests.
As you descend, you’ll pass through familiar scenery, but from a different perspective. The trail provides a chance to reflect on your trek and enjoy the changing views. Upon arriving in Bamboo, check into your lodge and enjoy a warm meal. The evening is a great time to relax and unwind after a long day of trekking.
Today, you will trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, a journey of approximately 6 hours. The trail descends through terraced fields and scenic landscapes, leading to Jhinu Danda. Jhinu Danda is known for its natural hot springs, which offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience after your trek.
After arriving in Jhinu Danda, take the opportunity to relax and soak in the hot springs. In the late afternoon, you will drive back to Pokhara, which takes about 1 hour. Once in Pokhara, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Explore the lakeside area, relax by Phewa Lake, or visit local restaurants and shops.
After breakfast, Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours and provides a scenic route through the Nepali countryside and along the Trishuli River. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax.
Kathmandu offers a variety of activities, including visiting cultural landmarks, shopping for souvenirs, or simply relaxing in one of its many cafes. In the evening, join a farewell dinner organized by Family Holidays Nepal to celebrate the successful completion of your trek and share your experiences with fellow trekkers.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek delivers spectacular mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and a rewarding sense of accomplishment. The trek’s mix of lush forests and alpine scenery culminates in an awe-inspiring view of the Annapurna massif, making it a must-do for any avid hiker.
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a renowned trekking route in Nepal’s Annapurna region that leads trekkers to the base camp of Annapurna I, one of the world's highest peaks. The trek offers a diverse experience of natural beauty, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and high-altitude landscapes. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, immerse themselves in local culture, and explore picturesque Gurung and Magar villages.
The best times to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. Spring (March to May) offers warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and clear skies. Autumn (late September to November) provides stable weather conditions and excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks. Winter can be quite cold and snowy, while the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can make trails slippery and increase the risk of landslides.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek requires a moderate level of fitness. It is suitable for trekkers with some previous hiking experience, though it is accessible to those with good health and a reasonable level of endurance. The trek involves walking 5-7 hours per day over various terrains, including some steep sections. Regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises prior to the trek will help prepare you for the physical demands.
To undertake the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will need the following permits:
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): This permit helps with the regulation and safety of trekkers and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek typically takes around 10 to 14 days to complete. This duration includes time for acclimatization, exploring the base camp area, and buffer days for any unforeseen weather conditions or delays. The trek itself involves approximately 7-10 days of hiking, with additional days allocated for travel to and from the starting and ending points.
Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is primarily in teahouses or lodges. These offer basic but comfortable facilities, including private rooms with beds and shared bathrooms. In more remote areas, accommodations can be more basic. Most lodges provide meals and a warm, friendly atmosphere, although the amenities may be limited at higher altitudes.
Food options along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek include a variety of traditional Nepalese dishes as well as some international cuisine. Common meals are dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and soups. Most lodges offer hearty and nutritious meals to sustain your energy levels. Some lodges may also provide snacks, beverages, and vegetarian options.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is generally considered safe, especially with proper preparation and adherence to safety guidelines. Accidents are rare, but it’s important to follow recommended safety practices, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. Trekking with a guide or through a reputable agency can enhance safety and provide additional support. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and varying terrain.