Annapurna Base Camp Trek — 11 Days | ABC Trek Cost & Itinerary 2026

After breakfast, board a tourist bus for the scenic drive to Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway, tracing the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers through terraced hillsides. Pokhara sits at 820 m on the shores of Phewa Tal — with Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) looming directly overhead, you feel the mountains before the trek even begins. The afternoon is free for the lakeside, final gear shopping or rest.

An early start from Pokhara — the vehicle takes you along the winding road to Jhinu, where the trek proper begins. The trail climbs steadily through subtropical forest and stone-stepped paths into Chhomrong, one of the largest and most welcoming Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. At 2,170 m, the first full views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli appear across the valley. Hot showers, good food and a genuine mountain atmosphere await at Chhomrong Cottage.

The day begins with a steep descent from Chhomrong on stone steps into the Modi Khola valley, followed by a crossing of the river and a long climb up the opposite bank. The trail enters the bamboo and rhododendron corridor that defines this section of the route — dense, green and alive with birdsong in spring. Doban sits at the confluence of two streams deep in the gorge, a quiet overnight stop before the landscape opens into alpine terrain.

The forests thin as altitude increases and the valley walls begin to close in around the trail. Today's walk passes through Himalaya (2,920 m) before climbing to Deurali at 3,230 m — the last permanent settlement before the Annapurna Sanctuary. The air is noticeably cooler and the peaks feel close. Deurali sits in a narrow canyon where avalanche slopes rise on both sides; mornings here are often clear and spectacular before clouds build by midday.

The most dramatic day of the trek. From Deurali the trail crosses open moraines and enters the Annapurna Sanctuary — a vast glacial bowl enclosed by some of the highest peaks on earth. Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC, 3,700 m) is reached after roughly three hours; pause here to take in the sacred spire of Machhapuchhare rising almost vertically overhead. The final push to Annapurna Base Camp takes another two hours across rocky terrain.

At 4,130 m, the Sanctuary opens in every direction. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m) and Machhapuchhare (6,993 m) form a complete 360-degree amphitheatre. Sunrise and sunset here are unforgettable. Settle in early, rest well and walk outside after dark — the stars at this altitude are extraordinary.

Rise early for the morning light on the peaks before beginning the descent. The route retraces through MBC and Deurali, then continues down into the forest. By the time you reach Sinuwa at 2,360 m, the temperature has risen and the bamboo has returned. The descent is long but the knees are rewarded with a warm meal and the satisfaction of having stood in the Sanctuary.

The final morning of trekking descends through Chhomrong and down to Jhinu Danda at 1,780 m. Here, natural hot springs sit at the edge of the Modi Khola river — the perfect remedy for eleven days of mountain walking. Soak for as long as you like before the vehicle collects you for the short drive back to Pokhara. A celebratory dinner on the lakeside closes out the trek.

A well-earned rest day in one of Nepal's most beautiful cities. Your guide takes you on a tour of Pokhara's highlights: a boat ride on Phewa Tal with Machhapuchhare reflected in the water, the World Peace Pagoda perched above the lake, Devi's Falls and the cave of Gupteshwor. The afternoon is free for the lakeside cafes, souvenir shopping or a massage. Pokhara in the evening light — with the Annapurna range glowing on the horizon — is a sight you will not forget.

After a leisurely breakfast, the tourist bus departs for Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway. The drive takes 5–6 hours through the river valleys and hills of central Nepal. On arrival in Kathmandu, check in to the Himalayan Suite Hotel. The evening is free for Thamel's restaurants, last-minute shopping, or a farewell dinner with your guide.

Your HSJ representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your departure. If your flight is in the afternoon, there is time for a final Kathmandu breakfast or a quick visit to Pashupatinath or Boudhanath. Safe travels — and we hope to see you on another HSJ adventure soon.