Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Hike to the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, with the surrounding area being some of the highest Himalayan peaks.
- Take in the wide view of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and the other peaks.
- Walk one of Nepal's most varied trekking routes, taking in the villages, the terraced fields, the green forests and the alpine scenery.
- See the natural beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary (a high altitude glacial basin surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range).
- Visit the Gurung and Magar villages (e.g. Ghandruk, Chhomrong) and get to know their culture and their hospitality.
- Just wade through the thick rhododendron and bamboo forests (particularly stunning in the spring).
- Unwind in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda (a great way to relax the muscles after a bit of trekking).
- Walk alongside waterfalls, glacial rivers and mountain streams en route.
- See the landscape shift from the subtropical valleys to the high altitude Himalayan wilderness.
- Stay in the local teahouses and experience the real mountain hospitality along the trail.
- Capture some great photos of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna Base Camp, the Himalayan glaciers and the mountain villages. It's one of Nepal's most famous and rewarding trekking destinations with some of the world's highest mountains.
- Finish an absolutely unforgettable Himalayan adventure and tick off a major trek in the Annapurna region.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview
The 13 day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek via Poon Hill is a fantastic Himalayan adventure. You get to see some absolutely magnificent mountain scenery, you get to experience the Gurung and Magar culture, you get to walk through a variety of different landscapes. The trek takes you through mountain villages, rhododendron forests, terraced fields, waterfalls and valleys and you finish off at the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130m (13,550ft).
Your trek starts with a drive from Pokhara through the villages of Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Ghandruk and Chhomrong. The highlight of the trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) to watch the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
As you progress into the Annapurna region the track takes you through small villages, thick forest and some very spectacular mountain scenery before you get to Annapurna Base Camp. You’ll be standing in a natural amphitheatre with the massive peaks of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli and Gangapurna all around you.
Along the way you'll experience the warm hospitality and traditions of the Gurung and Magar people. You'll be staying in the teahouses, enjoying the mountain views and have the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda (a real treat!). It's a great trek which combines the well known Poon Hill with the stunning Annapurna Sanctuary. A great trek for the adventure seeker who wants to experience the Himalayan beauty of Nepal, the local culture and the mountain hospitality without having to go on a very long trek.
The best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is generally good, the rhododendron forests are in full bloom and the mountain views are absolutely superb. Whether you're after stunning mountain panoramas, a bit of adventure or an authentic cultural experience, the 13-day Annapurna Base Camp trek via Poon Hill is an absolutely fantastic journey.
Join Nature Heaven Treks & Expeditions to explore the Annapurna Himalayas and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Transportation Information for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Kathmandu to Pokhara Travel Options
The Annapurna Base Camp trek begins with the journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the lakeside city that is the gateway to the Annapurna region.
Tourist Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara
A comfortable tourist bus is the most popular way to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It's a 6 to 8 hour journey (again, this will vary depending on the road and traffic). On the way you'll see rivers, terraced hillsides, some rural villages and the mountains.
Tourist buses generally leave early in the morning and make a number of stops for meals and refreshments.
Domestic Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara
If you want a quicker and more convenient option then you can take a daily domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Flights are available all year round.
The flight takes about 25 to 30 minutes and you get excellent aerial views of the Himalayas (Annapurna, Manaslu and Langtang if the weather is clear).
Remember that flight times are subject to change due to weather or airline ops.
Pokhara to Trek Starting Point
Once you're in Pokhara you'll take a private vehicle or a shared jeep to Nayapul, Siwai or indeed another trailhead depending on your itinerary and the road conditions. That journey will typically take between 1.5 and 3 hours and will take you through some beautiful villages, some lovely terraced farmland and countryside before you get to the actual trekking route.
Optional Private Vehicle Upgrade
If you're after more comfort and flexibility then you can go with a private vehicle transfer between Kathmandu and Pokhara.
This option allows for a custom departure. You can pick your departure time, make fewer stops and have a much more relaxed trip. Private transport is available on request for an extra cost. A Base Camp.
For the truly unforgettable experience you can opt for an optional helicopter flight from Annapurna Base Camp back to Pokhara. You get absolutely breathtaking bird's eye views of the Annapurna Sanctuary, the glaciers, the deep valleys and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It cuts your trekking time by a huge amount and is obviously the ideal option if you're short on time.
Helicopter charter prices will vary according to the season, availability and how many people are on the flight. Get in touch for current prices and to arrange your charter.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Online Briefing
Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition provide a free online trip briefing via WhatsApp prior to your trek. Once you've confirmed your booking and sent us a copy of your passport we'll put the briefing together and email you the details.
In the session we'll go through your itinerary, your packing list, the weather, the altitude and answer any questions you may have. We want you to be absolutely ready and confident for your adventure in Nepal.
If you need any help at all, please get in touch via WhatsApp on +977-9851218358 or just give us your WhatsApp number and we'll look after you.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Photo Gallery



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Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu a representative from Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition will be there to meet you. Once you've completed your arrival formalities and collected your luggage you'll be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in Kathmandu.
We'll deal with your luggage and arrange a comfortable and convenient transfer to your accommodation. On arrival at the hotel you'll check in, relax and unwind from the journey.
Depending on when you arrive, we'll give you a very brief overview of your 13 day Annapurna Base Camp trek via Poon Hill. We'll go over the itinerary, the permits, the equipment, the travel etc. You'll also meet your trekking guide and we'll go through any final bits before you actually go.
Enjoy your first evening in Kathmandu and get ready for an absolutely fantastic trekking experience in the Annapurna region.
What is Included in This Package
Transportation
- Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and return
- Private transfer between Pokhara and the trek starting/ending points (Nayapul, Siwai, or as per itinerary)
- Private airport pick-up and drop-off service in Kathmandu
Accommodations
- 8 nights total accommodation during the trip
- 2 nights in Kathmandu at a tourist-standard hotel with breakfast
- 3 nights in Pokhara at a tourist-standard hotel with breakfast
- 8 nights in traditional teahouses during the trek on a twin-sharing basis
Food & Drinks
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trekking period
- 12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 11 dinners as per the itinerary
- Daily seasonal fresh fruits during the trek
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu after the successful completion of the trek
Guide & Porter
- Licensed, experienced, and English-speaking trekking guide
- 1 assistant guide for groups of more than 7 trekkers
- Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carrying up to 18 kg in total)
Permits & Fees
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card (if required)
- All applicable local and government taxes
- Official paperwork and trekking permit processing fees
Other Service Inclusions
- Comprehensive first-aid medical kit carried by the guide
- Daily oxygen saturation (oximeter) monitoring during the trek
- Assistance with emergency rescue coordination (covered by your travel insurance)
- Company T-shirt and trekking map
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek completion certificate
- Sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag (available upon request and subject to availability)
- Free luggage storage at our Kathmandu office during the trek
- Government taxes and company service charges
What is Excluded from This Package
Transportation
- International flight tickets to and from Nepal
Accommodations
- Hotel stays in Kathmandu before and after the trek
- Extra nights in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or changes in itinerary
Food & Drinks
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in Kathmandu before and after the trek
Guide & Porter Tips
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended but not mandatory)
Personal Expenses & Gear
- Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport
- Personal travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation (mandatory)
- Snacks, bottled water, tea/coffee, soft drinks, alcohol, and hot showers
- Wi-Fi, phone calls, battery charging fees
- Extra porter charges (if required)
- Souvenirs and shopping items
- Personal trekking clothing and equipment
Other Exclusions
- Any services not specifically mentioned in the “Included” section
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route Map

Annapurna Base Camp Trek — Important Trip Info
The Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) is by far the largest protected area in Nepal, covering some 7,629 sq km in the north central part of the country. It spans the Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Myagdi districts. It encompasses a wide range of terrain from subtropical valleys and dense forests through to alpine scenery and snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It is one of the most diverse and attractive trekking areas in the world.
The Annapurna Conservation Area is a landscape of the Himalayas with deep river valleys, glaciers, high mountain passes and a range of different ecosystems. Some of the most well known peaks in the country are Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Nilgiri. The Kali Gandaki Gorge (one of the deepest in the world) runs between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Other notable features are Thorong La Pass (5,416m), Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and the Modi Khola Valley which leads to the Annapurna Base Camp.
The Annapurna region has a very wide variety of climates, plants and landscapes due to the variation in altitude and location. The southern slopes get a very heavy monsoon and this supports the growth of dense forests, rhododendron thickets, bamboo and all sorts of wildlife. The northern parts of Manang and Mustang are in the rain shadow of the Himalayas and are therefore much drier with their own very distinct mountain environments. It's this mix of geography, climate and nature that makes the Annapurna Conservation Area such a special place to trek, to explore and to experience the culture of Nepal.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek has a rather interesting history in that it was the first of the Annapurna Himalayas to be explored. In 1950 a French team under Maurice Herzog climbed Annapurna I (8,091m) and thus became the first people to reach the summit of a mountain over 8,000m. That in itself was a massive achievement and it was this which brought the region to the world's attention and in turn inspired a whole host of mountaineers, explorers and adventure seekers to come and visit the Annapurna range.
Following the ascent of Annapurna I, more and more trekkers and travellers began to come to the region to explore the valleys, the villages and the mountain views. As the trekking routes and tourism infrastructure improved, it became increasingly accessible to visitors to reach the Annapurna Sanctuary itself, a natural amphitheatre bounded by the famous Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The local Gurung and Magar people have been a huge asset in terms of welcoming the visitors and in terms of developing tourism through their very way of life, their culture and their hospitality.
Today the Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the most popular Himalayan treks in Nepal, drawing trekkers from all over the world. It's a trek that offers the full package in terms of scenery, culture and history. You stand at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and you have the most spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks and the Annapurna Sanctuary. It's now one of the most popular treks in the country, equally popular with the novice and the experienced trekker.
Before you start the Annapurna Base Camp trek you'll need the appropriate permits to enter the Annapurna region. The primary one is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) which you can obtain from the Nepal Tourism Board or one of their authorised offices. The ACAP allows you to explore the Annapurna Conservation Area and is a key way of funding conservation, wildlife protection and the local communities.
When you apply for the ACAP permit, be sure to bring a valid copy of your passport and any other required documents. The permit will be checked at various points during the trek, so keep it safe. The permit fee varies depending on your nationality and your government's rules. TIMS card rules and other regulations may also change, so always check the most up-to-date official information before your trip.
With Nature Heaven Treks & Expedition you have us to deal with the permit application process. We will take care of all the trekking permits and all the requisite paperwork prior to your trip. That way you can just go and enjoy the Himalayan views, the villages, the trekking and all the other things that make an Annapurna adventure so special.
The Annapurna region is renowned not just for its spectacular Himalayan scenery but also for its very strong indigenous cultural heritage, particularly that of the Gurung and Magar communities. These are ethnic groups who have lived in the foothills of the Annapurna Himalayas for generations and have maintained their distinct way of life, their language, their customs and their traditional values. The villages are a great opportunity to get a real insight into the culture of the Nepali mountains and to learn about the region's history.
The Gurung and Magar are renowned for their hospitality, their traditional houses, their colourful festivals and their very strong sense of identity. You can see it in the traditional villages of Ghandruk, Landruk, Ghorepani and the various other villages along the Annapurna trekking routes. There are traditional dances, folk songs, cultural festivals and very distinctive dress. Both Hinduism and Buddhism have played a part in the religious and spiritual life of the community so there is a very rich mix of beliefs and traditions.
Trekking in the Annapurna region is a great way to get a real feel for local life. You can sample traditional Nepali food, stay in the teahouses run by the locals, wander through the stone villages and get a real insight into the way of life of the people. The Gurung and Magar cultures are a major feature of the Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill treks and make the experience of the trek far more than just one of stunning mountain scenery.
The Annapurna area is one of Nepal's most biologically diverse regions with a huge variety of Himalayan flora and fauna. The range of altitudes, the different climates and the variety of landscapes means you can find everything from subtropical forests and green valleys right through to alpine meadows and high altitude plants. On the Annapurna Base Camp trek you'll be walking through rhododendron, oak, pine, bamboo and maple forests. In the springtime the hillsides are absolutely spectacular with the rhododendrons in full bloom in all their red, pink and white glory.
The Annapurna Conservation Area is full of wildlife, including some quite rare and endangered species. You can find snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, red pandas, Himalayan tahrs, musk deer, langurs and a number of other small mammals. The forests and the mountains are also excellent for spotting birds such as the Himalayan monal (the national bird of Nepal), pheasants, eagles and Himalayan griffons. You may not see any of the animals on your trek but it's a very good area for nature and bird watching.
The rich biodiversity of the Annapurna region is of course key to keeping the Himalayan environment healthy. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is there to protect the area's natural resources, its wildlife, its forests and its local ecosystems and to promote responsible tourism. As you walk through the villages, the quiet forests, the river valleys and the high mountains you will be surrounded by the beauty and diversity of the Himalayas. Please do respect the wildlife, don't litter and do abide by the conservation rules as you go as we all have a role to play in protecting this special place for the future.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is at around 4,130m (13,550ft) and is completely surrounded by the Annapurna range. As you go up from the lower hills you'll pass through the traditional villages, the forests and the alpine landscape. The altitude increases quite gradually and you'll see the temperature and the weather change as you go. There's of course a huge reward in terms of views at the higher altitude but you need to acclimatise properly, walk at a steady pace and stay well hydrated to avoid getting altitude sickness.
Climate along the Annapurna Base Camp trek is very much a function of season and altitude. It's generally mild and quite pleasant at lower levels, getting considerably colder as you get closer to base camp. Spring (March to May) sees the trails in full bloom with rhododendrons and the weather is typically good. Autumn (September to November) is very good with clear skies, good weather and excellent mountain views. Winter (December to February) is cold with freezing temperatures, snow and very difficult trail conditions at higher altitudes. The monsoon (June to August) is generally wet with rain, cloud and slippery trails.
Temps at Annapurna Base Camp vary quite a bit throughout the year. In spring and autumn, day time temps at higher altitudes will be in the range of 0-10°C and night time temps will be below freezing. In winter night time temps can drop to -10°C or below (again depending on the weather). You need to pack warm, layered clothing, a good quality down jacket, thermal wear, waterproof trekking gear, gloves and a suitable sleeping bag. Pick the right trekking season and have the right kit and you'll have a much safer, more comfortable and enjoyable Annapurna Base Camp trek.
What our travellers say
“Krishna was a guide from his mind and above. He led and left no moment of rest. Beautiful walking and professional. The two weeks with him were fun, challenging and I will never forget them.”
Kafle
Senior Himalayan Specialist
“Namaste! I have been guiding in the Himalayas for over 15 years. Contact me directly to customize your itinerary or check live trail conditions.”
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