Nepal · Annapurna Region

Annapurna Base Camp Trek — 09 Days

9 Days

Difficulty · 2/5

Max 4,130 m

Group 2–14 pax

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Duration

9 Days

8 nights

Max Altitude

4,130 m

Highest point

Difficulty

2 out of 5

Group Size

2–14

people

Best Season

Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct nov

Activity / Day

4-6 Hrs Walking

Trip Highlights

Stand inside the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 m — a natural amphitheatre of 7,000 m+ peaks
Sunrise over Annapurna I, Hiunchuli and the iconic Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) from Base Camp
Trek through ancient Gurung villages — rich in Himalayan culture
Walk beneath towering rhododendron forests ablaze with colour in spring
Soak tired legs in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after the descent
Explore Pokhara — Nepal's adventure capital — on the shores of Phewa Tal
Reach Machapuchare Base Camp, the sacred inner sanctum before the final push to ABC
09 days perfectly paced — no acclimatization days wasted, no days rushed

Trip Overview

Trekking in the Annapurnas is what brings most people to Nepal. And for good reason — the Annapurna region packs more variety into a single trek than almost anywhere else on earth: terraced villages, rhododendron forests, two base camps and finally the vast silence of the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 m.

Embark on an unforgettable nine-day adventure from Kathmandu to the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, one of Nepal's most spectacular trekking destinations. Beginning with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda, the route minimizes road travel and allows you to reach the mountains quickly. The trail winds through charming Gurung villages, lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, cascading waterfalls, and the dramatic Modi Khola gorge before opening into the breathtaking natural amphitheatre of snow-capped peaks at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m).

Surrounded by towering giants such as Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South, the base camp offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Designed with a moderate trekking pace, the itinerary also includes time in Kathmandu and Pokhara for arrival, transfers, and departure, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a rewarding Himalayan adventure within a shorter timeframe.

Best seasons: March–May for rhododendrons in bloom and clear skies. October–November for the sharpest mountain views and most stable weather.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara: Already in Pokhara? We operate the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara directly — skipping the Kathmandu leg and starting the trail the very next morning. It is a popular option for travellers who fly into Pokhara or who are combining ABC with another Annapurna trek. Contact us to arrange your Pokhara-start itinerary.

Want to add Poon Hill? The classic Poon Hill sunrise — a 360-degree panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Machhapuchhare lit up at dawn — can be added to your itinerary with 3 extra days. Contact us and we will tailor the route for you.

A Typical Day on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Breakfast is served at your teahouse by 7:00 am — dal bhat, eggs, porridge or pancakes, with tea or coffee. Most days start walking by 7:30–8:00 am to make the most of clear morning skies before clouds build in the afternoon.

The trail averages 8–12 km with 400–700 m of ascent on the way up, and longer descents on the return. Your guide sets a comfortable pace — there is no racing. Lunch is taken at a teahouse mid-route, usually around midday. Expect to arrive at the next village by 2:00–3:00 pm, leaving time to wash, rest, recharge devices and explore before dinner at 6:00–7:00 pm.

Evenings are social — the teahouse dining room fills with trekkers from around the world, guides swap stories and the wood stove keeps things warm. Lights-out is usually by 9:00 pm. The mountains reward early risers.

Photo Gallery

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Max 1,400 mHimalayan Suite Hotel, Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the Himalayan Suite Hotel in Thamel. The rest of the day is free to rest or wander the old city. Evening trip briefing with your guide, followed by an equipment check.

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Max 820 mDrive 5–6 hrsHotel Lakestar or similarBreakfast

Drive west along the Trishuli River to Pokhara, roughly six to seven hours by tourist coach, or a 25-minute flight on request. Check in at Hotel Temple Bell or Mount Kailash, then an afternoon at leisure on the shore of Phewa Lake, with the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre rising directly behind the town.

Day 3

Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and trek to Sinuwa

Max Sinuwa (2,360 m)Drive 2–3 hrs + Trek 4–5 hrsGuesthouse, SinuwaBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

An early jeep transfer to Jhinu Danda, about three hours on a rough hill road. The trek begins with a descent to the Modi Khola, a suspension bridge crossing, and a sustained climb through Chhomrong to Sinuwa. First close views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

Day 4

Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali

Max Deurali (3,230 m)Trek: 6–7 hours Guesthouse, DeuraliBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Day 5

Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Max Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)Trek: 5–6 hours Eco Village Lodge, DeuraliBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The most rewarding day. Climb through the sanctuary gate to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, then across open alpine moraine for the final ascent to Annapurna Base Camp. The route is walked slowly for acclimatization. Sunset and sunrise over the full amphitheatre — Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre.

Day 6

Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Lower Sinuwa

Max Lower Sinuwa (2,340 m)Trek: 7–8 hours Guesthouse, Lower Sinuwa Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Catch sunrise on the peaks, then begin the long descent back down the gorge, retracing the route through Deurali, Dovan, and Bamboo before the final climb to Lower Sinuwa. A long day, but almost entirely downhill.

Day 7

Trek to Jhinu Danda, drive to Pokhara

Max Pokhara (822m)Trek: 4–5 hours · Drive: 3 hours Hotel Lakestar or similarBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Descend through Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda, with time for a soak in the natural hot springs beside the river before the jeep transfer back to Pokhara. Evening free — a lakeside dinner to mark the end of the trek.

Day 8

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Max 1,400 mDrive 5–6 hrs (or fly 25 min)Himalayan Suite Hotel, Kathmandu Breakfast

Return to Kathmandu by tourist coach or by air. Check in again at the Himalayan Suite Hotel, with the afternoon free for souvenir shopping in Thamel or a short visit to Boudhanath or Patan Durbar Square.

Day 9

Departure Day

Breakfast

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.

What’s Included

Included

Airport transfers in Kathmandu on arrival and departure

2 nights at the Himalayan Suite Hotel, Kathmandu — twin sharing, breakfast only

2 nights at Hotel Lakestar or similar, Pokhara — twin sharing, breakfast only

Teahouse accommodation on trek (Days 3–6)

All meals on trekking days (Days 3–7) — breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu transport by tourist coach

Pokhara–Jhinu Danda–Pokhara jeep transfers

Licensed English-speaking trekking guide and one porter per two trekkers

ACAP entry permit and TIMS card

Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals, and equipment

First-aid kit and all government taxes

Not Included

International airfare and Nepal visa fees

Travel and medical insurance, including emergency evacuation cover

All lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara — only breakfast is included in the cities

Personal trekking gear and clothing

Hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi, and bottled or boiled water on trek

Alcoholic and soft drinks, snacks, and laundry

Tips for guide, porter, and driver

Any additional nights caused by early return or delay

Costs arising from flight cancellation, landslide, strike, or other events beyond our control

Choose your hotel

Per person · Total adjusts automatically · City stays only — trek lodging follows the itinerary.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek — 09 Days Departures

Departure	Price	Seats
14 Aug 2026 – 24 Aug 2026	$595 pp	Open
20 Aug 2026 – 30 Aug 2026	$595 pp	Open
27 Aug 2026 – 06 Sept 2026	$595 pp	Open

Route Map

View Map

Starts

Arrival in Kathmandu

Ends

Departure Day

Altitude Profile

Highest Point4,130m

Recommended Gear

Moisture-wicking base layer (top and bottom)

Thermal mid-layer fleece

Down or insulated jacket

Waterproof and windproof outer shell

Trekking trousers (2 pairs)

Lightweight shorts

Warm hat covering ears

Sun hat or cap

Neck gaiter or buff

Gloves (liner + warm outer)

Broken-in waterproof hiking boots

Lightweight camp sandals or flip-flops

Trekking socks (4–5 pairs, wool or synthetic)

Daypack 25–35 L with rain cover

Trekking poles (foldable)

Sleeping bag rated to -10°C

Headlamp with spare batteries

Power bank (10,000 mAh minimum)

Water bottles or hydration bladder (2 L total)

Water purification tablets or filter

Sunglasses (UV400)

Sunscreen SPF 50

Lip balm with SPF

Lightweight microfibre towel

Passport and permit photos (4 copies)

Travel insurance documents

Personal medications

Blister plasters and moleskin

Ibuprofen and paracetamol

Rehydration salts

Antiseptic wipes and small bandages

Hand sanitiser

Wet wipes

Toilet paper

Earplugs

Camera or phone with extra memory cards

Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit)

Traveler Reviews32 verified

Sanjoy Paul★★★★★

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Thanks to Himalayan Social Journey for making my dream come true...Much awaited Annapurna Base Camp trek has finally ticked in my to do list. It so well arranged and planned that we loved and taking memorable moments wit…

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Frequently Asked Questions

01What is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The two best windows are March–May and October–November. Spring brings rhododendrons in full bloom and generally clear morning skies before afternoon clouds build. Autumn offers the sharpest mountain visibility and most stable weather of the year. December–February is cold but doable with proper gear. The monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and leeches on the trail — not recommended unless you enjoy a challenge.

02How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Graded 2/5 — moderate. No technical climbing, no glacier crossing, no extreme altitude. Daily walking is 4–6 hours on well-marked, well-maintained trails. The steepest section is the stone-stepped climb to Chhomrong on Day 3. Any trekker with reasonable fitness and 4–6 weeks of preparation (regular hiking or cardio) can complete this trek comfortably.

03Do I need prior trekking experience?

No prior Himalayan experience is required. ABC is one of Nepal's best introductory treks precisely because the trails are clear, teahouses are plentiful and the altitude is manageable. First-time Himalayan trekkers complete this route every week. What matters more than experience is preparation — build your fitness in the weeks before you arrive.

04What is the maximum altitude on this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m is the highest point. For comparison, most European ski resorts top out at 3,000–3,500 m. The ascent is gradual enough that altitude sickness is uncommon on this route, though it can affect anyone. Your guide carries a pulse oximeter and knows the signs — if your oxygen saturation drops significantly, descent is the immediate protocol.

05What permits do I need and are they included?

Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. Both are arranged and covered by HSJ — you do not need to queue at permit offices. Bring passport-size photos and your passport for the permit process on arrival.

06Are meals included in the package price?

Breakfast is included during your hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Lunch and dinner in these cities are not included. During the trek, all meals at the teahouses (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included in the package price from day 3- 7.

07What is the single supplement and when does it apply?

If you are travelling solo and prefer a private room throughout, a single supplement of $200 applies. This covers private rooms at hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. On the trail, teahouses generally have twin-share rooms; private rooms are often available for a small extra charge paid directly on the trail.

08Is a guide compulsory and what does the guide do?

Nepal's government requires a licensed guide for all trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Your HSJ guide is English-speaking, licensed, and carries a first aid kit with a pulse oximeter. They manage the daily pace, communicate with teahouse owners, monitor your health at altitude and handle any logistics issues so you can focus entirely on the experience.

09Can I add a porter?

Yes. A porter carries your main bag (up to 15 kg), leaving you to walk with a light daypack. Porters are highly recommended — they significantly improve daily comfort and speed on the trail. Contact us when booking to add a porter. HSJ porters are fully insured, properly equipped and paid fair wages.

10What are the teahouses like on the trail?

Teahouses are family-run guesthouses with simple but comfortable rooms, a communal dining area and a kitchen serving dal bhat, pasta, soup, eggs, pancakes and more. Rooms have beds with blankets — a sleeping bag is recommended at higher altitudes. Hot showers are available at most stops for a small fee (NPR 200–400). Charging points are available for a small fee. Wi-Fi exists at most teahouses but is slow above Chhomrong.

11What are the hot springs at Jhinu Danda?

Jhinu Danda has natural hot spring pools fed by geothermal water, sitting at the edge of the Modi Khola river. After days of downhill walking, soaking in hot water surrounded by forest and mountain views is one of the great pleasures of the ABC route. The springs are a 10-minute walk from the village with a small entrance fee of around NPR 300.

12What is Machapuchare Base Camp and why does the itinerary include it?

Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC, 3,700 m) sits at the entrance of the inner Annapurna Sanctuary. The sacred peak of Machhapuchhare — shaped like a fish tail and never officially summited — rises almost directly overhead. MBC is a key waypoint on Day 6 before continuing to ABC. The short pause here is worthwhile — the views change dramatically in that final stretch to the Sanctuary.

13How long does it take to walk each day?

Most days involve 4–6 hours of actual walking, not including rest stops and lunch. Day 6 (to ABC) is the longest at 6–7 hours. Days 1, 2, 10 and 11 are travel days with no significant hiking. Your guide sets a comfortable pace — there is no rush. Start early, walk steadily and you will reach each destination well before dark.

14What should I pack for the ABC Trek?

Key items: broken-in hiking boots, trekking poles, a sleeping bag rated to -10°C, thermal base layers, a down or insulated jacket, waterproof outer layer, sun hat, gloves, sunscreen, lip balm, a headlamp, a power bank and a water bottle. HSJ provides a detailed packing list upon booking. Travel light — every kilogram matters on the stone steps to Chhomrong.

15What is the booking and cancellation policy?

A deposit of 20% secures your booking. The remaining balance is due 30 days before departure. Cancellations made more than 30 days before departure receive a full refund of the deposit. Cancellations within 30 days are subject to a 50% fee. We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers trip cancellation and emergency evacuation.

16Can I do the ABC Trek as a private trip?

Absolutely. All HSJ treks run as private groups — you are never joined with strangers unless you choose a group departure. Private trips depart on any date you choose. Use the Private Trip tab in the Departures section to pick your preferred start date and book directly.

From

$595

/ person

$595 per person · rate for groups of 9–12 pax

Reserve with 20% ($119) — pay the rest later

Free cancellation · No hidden fees

4.9★ · 2,004+ TripAdvisor reviews

18 Years+ Experience

info@hsj.com.np

Why Trek with HSJ

Small GroupsMax 12 trekkers for a personal experience

Local Sherpa GuidesBorn & raised in the Himalaya