Annapurna Base Camp Trek
In Nepali: अन्नपूर्ण आधार शिविर पदयात्रा · Also known as: ABC · Annapurna Sanctuary · अन्नपूर्ण आधार शिविर
The trail to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC, 4,130 m) climbs from Gurung villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong up the narrow Modi Khola gorge, past Machhapuchhre Base Camp, into a vast bowl of ice and rock surrounded by a ring of 6,000–8,000 m peaks.
It takes about 7–10 days from Pokhara, with lodges throughout. The upper gorge has avalanche risk after heavy snow, so check conditions. It combines well with Poon Hill.
Day by day (typical)
Day 1: drive Pokhara–Nayapul or Kimche, walk to Ghandruk. Day 2: Chhomrong. Day 3: Bamboo or Dovan. Day 4: Deurali. Day 5: Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. Day 6: sunrise at ABC, down to Bamboo. Day 7: Jhinu Danda hot springs. Day 8: walk out and drive to Pokhara.
What to see and do
At base camp, watch sunrise light up Annapurna I's south face, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and the fishtail of Machhapuchhre. On the way down, soak in the hot springs at Jhinu Danda. Chhomrong's long stone staircases and Gurung villages are part of the experience.
Good to know
Annapurna Conservation Area permit required. Beyond Chhomrong, lodges agree on shared menus and prices. The stretch between Deurali and MBC has avalanche risk after heavy snow — follow local advice.
Quick answers
- Where is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- About 4,130 m (13,551 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- For a 10-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 50,000 (≈ US$370) per person on a budget, or NPR 77,000 (≈ US$570) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 20,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- Plan 8 nights there for the trek; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 10 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- October–November; March–May
- How do I get to Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, Kimche or Jhinu. It is about 37 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Annapurna Base Camp Trek called in Nepali?
- अन्नपूर्ण आधार शिविर पदयात्रा
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