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info@nepalhimalayastrekking.comTalk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Any Question? Email Us
info@nepalhimalayastrekking.comTalk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek 13 Days begins in the busy Kathmandu Valley, moves west towards Pokhara, and then enters the Annapurna foothills before following the Modi Khola deep into the mountains. During the trek, the landscape changes repeatedly. Terraced farmland and warm lower hills give way to Gurung and Magar settlements, rhododendron and bamboo forests, steep river valleys, alpine meadows and finally the high mountain basin of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The highest point of the journey is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres, where Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and several surrounding peaks rise around the sanctuary. The approach is just as important as the destination. You pass through Ghorepani and climb to Poon Hill at 3,210 metres, walk through the forest around Tadapani, negotiate the long stone staircases around Chhomrong, follow the Modi Khola through Bamboo and Dovan, and gradually leave the forest behind as you approach Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
This route is often described as a moderate trek, and that description is fair, but it does not tell the whole story. The difficulty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek comes from the shape of the trail as much as from its altitude. There are long stone staircases, repeated ascents and descents, uneven sections after rain and increasingly cold conditions above Deurali. A five-hour walking day can therefore feel considerably harder than the distance suggests.
The cultural side of the journey is equally important. The route passes through villages where farming, tourism and traditional mountain life exist alongside one another. Teahouse kitchens become gathering places in the evening, porters carry supplies towards the higher settlements, prayer flags appear around villages and viewpoints, and the sound of the Modi Khola accompanies much of the approach to the sanctuary.
For travellers who want a Himalayan trek that combines villages, forests, culture and a close approach to enormous mountain walls without reaching the extreme elevations of the Everest region, this 13-day ABC itinerary provides a particularly balanced route.
| Trek Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Duration | 13 Days |
| Destination | Annapurna Base Camp |
| Highest Point | 4,130 m / 13,549 ft |
| Region | Annapurna |
| Difficulty | Moderate to moderately challenging |
| Accommodation | Hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara and teahouses during the trek |
| Major Viewpoint | Poon Hill, 3,210 m |
| Major Mountain Pass | None |
| Main River Valley | Modi Khola |
| Main Cultural Communities | Gurung and Magar communities |
| Starting Area | Pokhara / Nayapul-Ulleri trail area |
| Ending Area | Nayapul / Pokhara |
| Best Seasons | Spring and autumn |
| Trekking Style | Guided teahouse trek |
| Maximum Elevation | 4,130 m at ABC |
| Suitable For | Prepared beginners, experienced trekkers, private groups and families with suitable pacing |
The attraction of ABC is not confined to standing at 4,130 metres. The route gives you a remarkably concentrated experience of Nepal's mountain geography.
You begin in the middle hills, where roads, farmland and settlements are still common. After entering the trekking trail, the surroundings gradually become more rural. Stone steps lead through villages and forests, and the trail begins following rivers and mountain streams. Around Bamboo and Dovan, dense vegetation can hide much of the wider landscape. Above Deurali, the trees become sparse and the valley starts to look distinctly alpine. At Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the mountains feel close enough to dominate every direction of the view.
Then comes the sanctuary itself.
The Annapurna Sanctuary is a high natural basin enclosed by some of the most recognisable peaks in the region. The sense of arrival comes from the landscape opening around you after the narrower approach through the Modi Khola valley.
The route therefore offers several different trekking experiences within one journey:
Route: Kathmandu → Pokhara → Poon Hill → Chhomrong → Bamboo → Deurali → MBC → ABC (4,130 m) → Sinuwa → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara → Kathmandu.
The easiest way to understand the ABC route is to follow the changing geography.
The journey begins among Nepal's middle hills, where terraced agriculture and villages dominate. The trail then enters increasingly dense forest before following the Modi Khola into a narrower mountain valley. Above Deurali, the forest thins rapidly and the landscape becomes alpine. At MBC and ABC, the mountains themselves dominate the surroundings.
The Nepal Tourism Board also describes the Annapurna region as a landscape of considerable contrasts, extending from forested middle mountains into high Himalayan and trans-Himalayan environments. That geographical progression is one of the strongest reasons to choose ABC.
Pokhara is more than the starting point printed on an itinerary. It is the transition between Nepal's urban environment and the Annapurna foothills.
Once you leave the city, terraced fields begin to dominate the hillsides. Roads reach many settlements, but walking remains an important part of village life. The lower section can also be much warmer than travellers expect, particularly during spring or before the monsoon. The contrast becomes increasingly obvious as you gain altitude.
Chhomrong is one of the most recognisable settlements on the ABC route because of its position above the valley and its extensive stone staircases. The stairs should not be treated as an inconvenience added to an otherwise easy route. They are part of the way people have connected settlements across steep mountain terrain.
For trekkers, they create a practical lesson: kilometres alone do not tell you how difficult a Himalayan walking day will feel.
The Bamboo and Dovan section has a very different atmosphere from the open landscapes around Poon Hill. Dense vegetation surrounds much of the trail. Bamboo and rhododendron grow around the valley, while streams and waterfalls are common.
After rain, the character of the trail changes again. Wet stone, mud and roots can make footing more difficult, particularly during descent.
Deurali marks an important ecological and geographical transition.
The trees become smaller and less frequent, the valley becomes more exposed and the temperature drops. The trail is moving into an environment where snow, rock, glaciers and high mountain weather play a much greater role. This is also where trekkers begin to notice the effect of elevation more clearly.
MBC is one of the places where the journey suddenly feels remote.
There are fewer trees, fewer signs of agriculture and much less visual clutter. The mountain walls become the dominant feature. The settlement also gives trekkers a natural pause before the final approach to ABC.
At 4,130 metres, Annapurna Base Camp sits inside the sanctuary surrounded by enormous Himalayan peaks.
The base camp itself is only one part of the experience. The approach through the sanctuary, the changing weather, the cold evening and the sunrise the following morning all contribute to what makes the destination memorable.
The Annapurna Sanctuary is a high mountain basin enclosed by the Annapurna massif and surrounding peaks. The approach through the Modi Khola valley is comparatively narrow. That shape affects what you see. Mountains are often partially hidden as you walk upward, and then the landscape gradually opens as you move into the sanctuary.
This creates a very different visual experience from a viewpoint where the entire mountain range is visible from a distance. At ABC, the surrounding peaks include Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhre, although visibility varies with weather.
Sunrise is one of the reasons trekkers are willing to step outside into the cold before breakfast.
The light changes quickly on the surrounding peaks. A mountain that looked grey before sunrise can begin taking on orange and gold tones within minutes. Keep your camera, gloves, hat and warm jacket ready the night before. The cold is considerably more noticeable when you are standing still than when you are walking.
The ABC route crosses several ecological zones in a relatively short distance.
At the lower elevations, you encounter agricultural land and warmer vegetation. As you climb, forests become denser, with rhododendron, oak and bamboo among the characteristic plants. Above the forest line, vegetation becomes increasingly sparse until the sanctuary is dominated by rock, snow and alpine terrain.
This environmental change gives the trek a quality that is difficult to capture through a list of mountains alone. You can actually watch the vegetation change as the elevation increases.
Rhododendron is particularly important in the middle elevations, especially during spring flowering. Oak and other forest species appear alongside it, while bamboo becomes prominent in sections around the Modi Khola valley. At higher elevations, trees gradually disappear.
The change is subtle at first. A forest that looked dense a few hours earlier becomes more open, then increasingly sparse. Eventually, there are no tall trees at all.
The Annapurna Conservation Area contains a wide range of habitats and wildlife. Trekkers may encounter Himalayan tahr, langur, deer and Himalayan pheasants, among other mountain species. Sightings are never guaranteed, particularly because many animals avoid busy trails.
Birdlife can sometimes be easier to notice than larger mammals. The best approach is to observe quietly and keep your distance. Feeding wildlife or trying to approach animals for photographs is inappropriate in a protected landscape.
The Annapurna region contains a mixture of ethnic communities, languages and local traditions. Gurung and Magar communities form an important part of the cultural landscape encountered on trekking routes around the southern Annapurna foothills. Chhomrong is particularly associated with Gurung settlement, while the broader region contains many different communities.
Rather than describing every village as an “authentic mountain village,” it is more useful to notice the ordinary details of life: terraced fields, stone houses, local kitchens, family-run lodges, religious spaces and people moving between settlements.
The best cultural experience usually happens without a formal cultural performance. It comes while eating dinner in a teahouse, talking with a lodge owner or watching people work in the village around you.
Food becomes part of the trekking routine. Lower-elevation teahouses generally have more choice because supplies are easier to transport. As you move towards MBC and ABC, menus tend to become simpler.
Common meals include:
Dal bhat remains one of the most practical trekking meals, particularly on long walking days. It is filling, familiar throughout Nepal and often available with additional servings. At higher elevations, you should not expect the same menu variety that you find in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Teahouses are an essential part of the ABC experience.
Most provide simple bedrooms, beds, blankets and shared dining areas. Facilities become more basic as you move higher into the sanctuary. The dining room often becomes the centre of the evening. After sunset, trekkers gather for dinner, tea and conversation because the temperature outside drops quickly.
At higher elevations, electricity, charging and hot showers may be available but should not be treated as hotel-style services. A power bank and headlamp are worth carrying even when your accommodation advertises electricity.
ABC is a mountain settlement, not a luxury destination.
Expect simple rooms and basic facilities. The exact availability of heating, hot water, electricity, showers and charging depends on the lodge and current conditions. The most important adjustment is psychological. You should not compare an ABC teahouse with your hotel in Kathmandu.
At 4,130 metres, the priority is a warm meal, a dry bed, reasonable shelter and a safe place to rest before the descent.
The Modi Khola is one of the defining geographical features of the upper route.
The river drains the Annapurna Sanctuary and remains closely associated with the trekking trail as you move through the valley. Smaller streams and waterfalls feed into it, particularly through the forest sections. Around Bamboo and Dovan, the sound of water can accompany you for hours.
This is one of those details that photographs rarely communicate properly. The valley does not simply look green and mountainous. It sounds alive with running water.
Rain changes the experience considerably. Stone steps can become slippery, forest trails may become muddy and streams can carry more water. Cloud can also settle over the hills and hide mountain views. During wetter periods, trekkers may encounter leeches in the lower forest sections.
For that reason, a useful ABC packing list should include:
You do not need to fear rain, but you should prepare for it.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty is best described as moderate to moderately challenging. The route does not require technical climbing experience, ropes or mountaineering skills, but it is not an easy walk either. You will spend several consecutive days on your feet, usually walking for around five to seven hours, while the trail repeatedly climbs and descends through stone steps, forest paths and uneven mountain terrain. The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres, so altitude becomes another factor once you move above the forested sections. Nepal Himalayas Trekking also classifies the route as moderate to moderately challenging, with steep climbs, stone staircases and descents forming much of the physical challenge.
What makes the trek interesting is that its difficulty changes as the landscape changes. The lower trail around the Annapurna foothills can feel warm and relatively comfortable, but the long stair sections begin testing your legs. Around Chhomrong, for example, the trail repeatedly rises and falls through stone steps. The distance between two places may look short on an itinerary, yet the actual walking time can be considerably longer because you are gaining or losing elevation rather than simply walking across level ground. Trekkers who arrive expecting the kilometres to tell the whole story often find the stairs more tiring than expected.
The descent can be just as important as the climb. After reaching Annapurna Base Camp, you still have several days of walking before returning to the lower hills. Your knees and feet have already worked for a week by this point, and long downhill sections can feel harder than they did at the beginning of the trek. This is one reason we recommend building stair walking and downhill walking into your preparation rather than relying only on flat-ground cardio.
The forest section between Bamboo, Dovan and Deurali brings a different kind of challenge. The trail can be damp and slippery after rain, with stone surfaces, exposed roots, muddy sections, streams and waterfalls along the way. You may not be walking at extreme altitude yet, but the terrain requires careful footing. A pair of properly broken-in trekking boots with good grip can make a noticeable difference here.
Above Deurali, altitude becomes increasingly relevant. The trees become fewer, the valley opens and the temperature drops as you approach Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. At 4,130 metres, you will naturally walk more slowly than you did around the lower villages. That does not necessarily mean something is wrong. Your body is simply working with less available oxygen, and allowing yourself more time is part of sensible high-altitude trekking.
For this reason, physical fitness matters, but pacing matters just as much. You do not need to be a marathon runner or an experienced Himalayan trekker. You should, however, be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days and handling sustained uphill and downhill sections. Regular hiking, stair climbing, long walks and some strength work for your legs before the trek will prepare you much better than occasional gym sessions alone.
If you are preparing for ABC for the first time, I would recommend focusing on these areas:
A first-time trekker can complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with sensible preparation. Previous Himalayan experience is helpful, but it is not a requirement. The more important question is whether you can comfortably walk for several hours a day, manage repeated stairs and recover well enough to walk again the following morning. Your current fitness, walking experience and the pace of your itinerary matter more than whether you have previously stood at a high Himalayan base camp.
The route is also more approachable because it does not demand technical mountaineering skills. You are trekking rather than climbing a peak, and the standard ABC route uses established trails and teahouse accommodation. The challenge comes from duration, terrain, elevation and cumulative fatigue, rather than technical climbing.
That distinction is worth making clearly on the page. Calling ABC simply “easy” can give first-time trekkers the wrong impression, while describing it as extremely difficult unnecessarily discourages people who are perfectly capable of completing it with preparation.
There is no single section that every trekker will find hardest. Chhomrong's stone stairs are often physically demanding because of the repeated elevation changes, while the Bamboo to Deurali section can feel tiring because of the uneven and sometimes slippery trail. The final approach from Deurali through Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp feels harder for a different reason: you are walking at much higher elevation, where your normal pace naturally slows.
The return journey has its own difficulty. After spending a night at ABC, you lose altitude quickly and eventually return to long sections of stone trail. Trekkers who have spent the previous day concentrating on reaching the base camp sometimes underestimate how much work remains on the way back.
You do not need a specialised mountaineering training programme for ABC, but you should prepare specifically for multi-day walking with elevation gain and loss. Start by making regular walking part of your routine. As your departure approaches, increase the duration of your weekend walks and introduce hills or stairs. It is particularly useful to practise walking on two consecutive days because ABC is not difficult because of one enormous walking day. Your body has to keep performing day after day.
If possible, include some longer hikes carrying the daypack you expect to use in Nepal. You will learn how your footwear feels after several hours, whether your backpack sits comfortably and how your body responds to sustained climbing. These are small things to discover at home rather than on the trail between Chhomrong and Bamboo.
Your own [Annapurna Base Camp Trek guide] can also be linked naturally here for readers who want a broader explanation of the route, altitude, preparation and practical considerations.
Altitude is one of the reasons ABC should not be treated like an ordinary hill walk. The route reaches 4,130 metres, and altitude-related symptoms can occur above 3,000 metres. Headache, nausea, dizziness, unusual tiredness and loss of appetite should not simply be dismissed as part of trekking. Nepal Himalayas Trekking recommends gradual ascent, sensible pacing, hydration and attention to symptoms during the journey.
Your guide should pay attention to how you are feeling rather than simply watching the clock. If you develop symptoms that are worsening or do not improve with rest, tell your guide immediately. The appropriate response to serious altitude illness is descent and medical assistance, not trying to push through because the day's destination is close.
This is also why the Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty should never be judged only by the maximum altitude. The physical terrain, weather, walking hours, sleep, hydration and cumulative fatigue all contribute to how the trek feels.
The simplest approach is to arrive prepared and avoid wasting energy on the trail. Start each day at a comfortable pace, eat properly, drink regularly and keep your warm and rain layers accessible. Do not wait until you are exhausted before taking a short break.
Your footwear deserves particular attention. The ABC trail contains long staircases, rocky paths, muddy forest sections and uneven surfaces, so shoes that are comfortable on a flat city walk may not be suitable for several consecutive days in the mountains.
A sensible itinerary also helps. There is little advantage in squeezing the route into the shortest possible number of days if doing so leaves you exhausted every afternoon. A slower private itinerary can be particularly useful for families, older trekkers or anyone who would rather enjoy the villages and landscape without constantly watching the clock.
For readers comparing ABC with other routes, your [Everest Base Camp Trek difficulty guide] is another useful internal link because it explains how altitude, walking duration, terrain and preparation affect difficulty on a higher Himalayan route.
ABC reaches 4,130 metres, so altitude deserves proper attention even though the trek does not reach the elevations encountered on the Everest Base Camp route. Your body needs time to adjust as you climb. The CDC's current Yellow Book recommends gradual ascent and notes that altitude illness can affect travellers sleeping above approximately 2,450 metres.
Common early symptoms can include headache, dizziness, unusual fatigue, nausea and reduced appetite. You should tell your guide if you develop symptoms rather than trying to hide them.
Never continue ascending simply because the itinerary says you should. If symptoms become serious or worsen despite rest, descending is an important part of responsible altitude management. The CDC also recommends that travellers with significant symptoms do not continue to higher sleeping elevations. Travellers with existing medical conditions should seek appropriate medical advice before travelling at altitude.
ABC is suitable for a wide range of trekkers when the itinerary and pace are appropriate.
A first-time Himalayan trekker can undertake the route with sensible preparation. Experienced hikers may find the overall distance manageable but still need to respect the altitude and stairs. Families can also consider the trek when children and adults are comfortable with sustained daily walking. Age alone does not determine whether someone should undertake the trek. Fitness, previous experience, walking habits, preparation and the pace of the itinerary matter much more.
A private itinerary can be particularly useful for travellers who prefer shorter walking days or more flexibility.
Spring is one of the most attractive seasons for ABC because the lower and middle forests can show extensive rhododendron flowering. Temperatures are generally comfortable at lower elevations, while the higher sanctuary remains cold.
Autumn is another popular period. The monsoon has usually reduced the dust and heat of the lower hills, and mountain visibility can be good. However, mountain weather is never completely predictable.
Winter brings colder conditions and a greater chance of snow at higher elevations. The sanctuary can become particularly cold. Trekkers choosing winter should be properly equipped for freezing conditions.
Rain is more frequent on the southern Annapurna slopes. Trails can become muddy and slippery, while clouds may obscure mountain views. The lower forest sections can also experience leeches. Check our Annapurna Best Season blog for more information.
The ABC route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, where conservation, tourism and local livelihoods are closely connected.
The protected area includes forests, wildlife habitats, mountain ecosystems and communities. The Annapurna region is also one of Nepal's most established trekking destinations, meaning tourism creates economic opportunities while placing pressure on trails, water, waste management and accommodation.
Responsible trekking therefore needs to be practical rather than decorative.
During the trek, you should:
The Nepal Tourism Board provides broader information about the Annapurna region and its environmental and geographical diversity.
Nepal Tourism Board: Annapurna Region
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek costs USD 1,090 per person on the current Nepal Himalayas Trekking package. The listed itinerary is 13 days and is offered as a moderate/adventure trek, with group-joining departures available. The website currently shows the price reduced from USD 1,190 to USD 1,090 per person.
The price covers more than simply the walking days. Your overall cost depends on the services arranged before and during the trek, including accommodation, transportation, guide and porter support, permits and the logistics required to move between Pokhara, the trailhead and the trekking villages. This is why comparing ABC packages only by their advertised price can sometimes be misleading. A cheaper package may leave out services that you would otherwise have to arrange and pay for separately.
For the final commercial page, I would clearly separate the included services from personal expenses so that a traveller can understand exactly what the USD 1,090 package price represents.
The package can include the following services, according to the final confirmed quotation:
The exact inclusions should be confirmed against the quotation you send to the client, because services such as airport transfers, meals, porter service and Kathmandu/Pokhara hotel nights should not be claimed as included unless they are actually part of the USD 1,090 package
Unless specifically stated in the quotation, travellers should budget separately for:
The cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek can change when you change the way you travel. A private trek with a dedicated guide and porter will have a different price from a group departure. Similarly, adding extra nights, choosing better hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara, changing the transportation arrangement or adding a helicopter return will increase the overall cost.
For example, someone travelling alone may prefer a private itinerary with greater flexibility, while a couple or small group may find the current group-joining rate more economical. Travellers who want shorter walking days can also add an overnight stop, but the additional accommodation, food and guide arrangements need to be reflected in the final quotation.
For the 13-day package currently published by Nepal Himalayas Trekking, USD 1,090 provides a clear starting price for travellers comparing guided Annapurna Base Camp packages. The important point is to compare what each company actually includes at that price, rather than comparing the headline number alone. Nepal Himalayas Trekking currently lists the ABC package at USD 1,090 per person and identifies group joining as available. For more information check our Annapurna Base Camp Cost Guide.
You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These documents are checked at the designated checkpoints along the trekking route, so they should be arranged before you begin the trek.
The ACAP permit is required because the ABC route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The TIMS card records your trekking details and provides an additional system for monitoring trekkers in the region. Permit fees and TIMS requirements can change, so the current rates should be confirmed before departure.
If you book with Nepal Himalayas Trekking, we handle the required trekking permits and registration as part of the pre-trek arrangements, so you do not need to visit the permit offices yourself.
A guide is highly recommended for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, particularly if you want someone who can handle the practical side of the journey while also helping you understand the places you pass through. The guide does much more than walk at the front of the group. During a normal trekking day, the guide keeps an eye on the route, weather, walking pace and condition of the trekkers, while also coordinating with teahouses for rooms and meals. If the weather changes, a trail section becomes difficult, or someone starts feeling unwell at higher altitude, the guide can help make the appropriate arrangements. A knowledgeable local guide also gives meaning to details that are easy to overlook, such as why a village was built on a particular slope, why the forest changes around certain elevations, what the prayer flags represent, or why the trail descends before climbing again. That local knowledge can turn the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from simply following a marked trail into a better understanding of the landscape and communities around you.
A porter is optional, but many trekkers find the service worthwhile because the ABC route involves considerable climbing and descending, particularly around Chhomrong and the upper Modi Khola valley. Instead of carrying your main luggage throughout the trek, you can keep a lighter daypack with your passport, money, electronics, water, medication, rain protection, warm clothing and other personal necessities while the porter carries your larger trekking bag. This becomes especially helpful as you gain altitude, when even a modest additional load can make a long walking day feel harder. If you use a porter, choose a trekking company that takes porter welfare seriously and provides appropriate loads, accommodation, food and treatment.
For a private Annapurna Base Camp Trek, we normally recommend travelling with both a guide and porter. Solo or experienced trekkers may prefer carrying their own luggage, but a guide remains useful for route support, accommodation coordination, local interpretation and assistance if conditions change. The exact arrangements can be adjusted according to your group size, experience, preferred walking pace and budget.
The most common surprises are rarely dramatic.
Trekkers often underestimate:
These details are not meant to make the trek sound harder than it is. They simply help you arrive prepared.
Your packing should reflect the route rather than simply follow a generic Nepal trekking checklist. At lower elevations, lightweight clothing and rain protection are important. In the forest, good footwear becomes particularly valuable because of mud, wet stones and uneven ground. Above Deurali, warm layers become increasingly important.
For the full trek, we recommend considering:
Do not bury your warm jacket at the bottom of your luggage. You may need it immediately after reaching a higher village or when stepping outside the teahouse after sunset.
The 13-day itinerary gives you Poon Hill, the major forest sections, Chhomrong, the Modi Khola valley, MBC, ABC and Jhinu Danda. It can also be adjusted.
Travellers with limited time can choose a shorter itinerary focused more directly on the sanctuary.
Our 7-day Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek provides a more compact approach through Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo and MBC.
This combination works particularly well for travellers who want both a famous sunrise viewpoint and the complete sanctuary experience.
We also offer an ABC Trek with Poon Hill package, although the itinerary and pace differ from this 13-day version.
A private trek allows your group to maintain its own pace. This is useful when one traveller walks considerably faster or slower than others, or when you want additional flexibility with overnight stops.
Adding an extra night can make the route more comfortable for travellers who prefer shorter walking days.
The Mardi Himal Trek has a different character from ABC. It provides a more open high-ridge experience and strong views towards Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.
Combining the two requires enough time and should be planned as two distinct trekking experiences rather than simply adding one destination after another.
A helicopter return can reduce the amount of descending on foot, subject to weather, availability, flight regulations and additional cost. Make a inquiry for more info.
The two treks are often compared because both lead into famous Himalayan mountain regions, but the actual experiences differ considerably.
| Feature | Annapurna Base Camp | Everest Base Camp |
|---|---|---|
| Highest Main Destination | 4,130 m | 5,364 m |
| Iconic Viewpoint | Poon Hill / ABC | Kala Patthar |
| Main Region | Annapurna | Khumbu |
| Major Cultural Communities | Gurung and Magar | Sherpa |
| Forest Experience | Extensive lower and middle forests | Forests in lower Khumbu, then alpine terrain |
| Main Mountain Environment | Annapurna Sanctuary | Khumbu Valley |
| Flight Required for Classic Route | No | Usually Lukla flight for classic itinerary |
| Typical Altitude Challenge | Moderate | Greater |
| Major Attraction | Close approach to Annapurna Sanctuary | Everest and Khumbu |
| Trail Character | Stone steps, forests and sanctuary | Long high-altitude valley route |
The Everest Base Camp Trek reaches considerably higher elevations and provides a different cultural landscape centred on the Sherpa communities of the Khumbu.
Choose ABC if you want a shorter high-mountain journey with substantial forest, village and river-valley walking before entering a dramatic mountain sanctuary.
Choose Everest if reaching the Khumbu and standing at the base of the world's highest mountain is the central goal of your trip.
The Annapurna region is unusually diverse. The Nepal Tourism Board describes it as one of Nepal's most varied trekking destinations, with routes ranging from short walks to long journeys around the massif. That variety means travellers do not have to choose one route simply because it is famous.
ABC is ideal for travellers who want a direct approach into a high Himalayan sanctuary. The route combines forest, villages, rivers and dramatic mountain walls within a relatively compact journey.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a much broader geographical journey. The route crosses Thorong La and moves through different climatic zones, from lower valleys to the high mountain landscape around Manang and then towards Mustang.
The circuit is particularly attractive to travellers who want the sense of travelling around an entire mountain massif rather than walking directly towards one base camp.
Mardi Himal provides a different relationship with the mountains. The trail climbs towards high ridges and viewpoints beneath Machhapuchhre, and the route generally feels quieter than the classic ABC approach.
Our Mardi Himal Trek itinerary can be considered by travellers who have less time but still want a close Himalayan mountain experience.
Poon Hill is particularly suitable for travellers who want mountain sunrise views without committing to the full ABC journey.
Our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a shorter alternative within the Annapurna region.
Kori appeals to travellers looking for a less conventional route and a more remote high-pasture atmosphere.
It is a different experience from ABC and should be selected for its own landscape and trail character rather than simply because it is another Annapurna trek.
North Annapurna Base Camp provides a substantially different perspective on the massif and is better suited to travellers looking for a less conventional and more remote Himalayan journey.
A trek through the Annapurna region passes through communities where tourism has become an important part of the local economy.
Teahouses employ local residents, food is purchased locally where possible, porters transport supplies, guides work with visitors and transportation providers connect villages with larger towns.
This creates opportunities, but tourism also changes the communities through which the trail passes.
As a traveller, you can contribute positively by using locally operated services, paying fairly, avoiding unnecessary waste and respecting the fact that these settlements are homes rather than open-air attractions.
The highest point is not necessarily the hardest part of the journey.
Some trekkers find the stone stairs around Chhomrong more tiring than a longer-looking trail elsewhere. Others discover that descending from ABC puts more strain on their knees than the ascent. Some arrive at the sanctuary expecting the same comfortable temperature they experienced in Pokhara and are surprised by the cold. The trail also changes faster than many first-time trekkers expect.
You can eat breakfast surrounded by forest and later in the same day find yourself walking through an increasingly alpine landscape. The temperature can drop sharply after sunset. Rain can transform an easy forest path into a slippery trail.
Knowing these things before you start does not make the trek less adventurous. It simply means you are prepared for the route you actually have in front of you.
A few practical habits make the route easier.
Choosing a trekking company should involve more than comparing the number of days and the price. A professional trekking operator should understand how the route actually behaves. At Nepal Himalayas Trekking, our work begins before the first walking day. We arrange the trekking documentation, transportation, accommodation and guide and porter services required for the agreed itinerary. We also help travellers prepare for the practical realities of the route, including equipment, altitude, weather and teahouse conditions.
Our experience is particularly useful in the places where a standard itinerary tells you very little.
A guide who knows the ABC trail understands that the Chhomrong stairs can make a short day tiring, that wet forest sections require more careful footing, that the temperature changes dramatically after Deurali and that trekkers should not treat reaching ABC as more important than responding to altitude symptoms.
That knowledge affects how the trek is managed.
We also work with local guides and support staff who understand the communities through which the trail passes. They can explain the landscape, local customs, villages and changing vegetation instead of simply announcing the next overnight stop.
The company has been arranging Himalayan trekking journeys for international travellers, and our trip portfolio covers major routes including Annapurna, Everest, Manaslu, Langtang and Kanchenjunga. Our current trip listings also provide traveller reviews and package information.
For travellers who want a private itinerary, the practical advantage is flexibility. Walking speed, rest periods, accommodation preferences and route extensions can be discussed before departure rather than forced into a fixed group schedule.
Our role is therefore not simply to sell you a route. It is to organise the practical side of the journey and have a local team available when the realities of mountain travel require experience and judgement.
The ABC Trek is generally considered moderate to moderately challenging. It does not require technical climbing, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days. The route includes substantial stone staircases, repeated ascents and descents, uneven terrain and increasing altitude.
The trail becomes physically more demanding around Chhomrong and the upper Modi Khola valley. The final approach to ABC is not technically difficult, but the altitude, cold and longer walking hours can make the effort feel considerably harder than it does in the lower hills.
The itinerary presented here takes 13 days from Kathmandu and back to Kathmandu. It includes Kathmandu preparation, travel to Pokhara, the Poon Hill section, the Annapurna Sanctuary, the return through Jhinu Danda and the final journey back to Kathmandu.
Travellers with limited time can choose a shorter itinerary, while those who prefer a more relaxed pace can add additional nights.
The two treks challenge trekkers in different ways.
Everest Base Camp reaches a considerably higher altitude, making acclimatization a greater concern. ABC, meanwhile, has extensive stone staircases and repeated climbs and descents, particularly through the lower and middle sections of the route.
Your fitness, previous trekking experience, acclimatization and walking pace can significantly influence how difficult either trek feels.
You should be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven trails and stone stairs. Training with regular uphill and downhill walking before the trek can make a noticeable difference.
A private guide can also help you maintain a suitable pace rather than feeling pressured to keep up with a faster group.
A good local guide does much more than lead the way. They coordinate accommodation, communicate with teahouse staff, monitor the group's walking pace, explain local culture and geography, and help respond when weather, health or trail conditions create an unexpected problem.
A knowledgeable guide can also point out details that are easy to miss when travelling independently, from changing vegetation around different elevations to the history and traditions of the villages along the route.
Porter-only arrangements may be possible depending on the current regulations and service arrangement.
A porter primarily carries your luggage, allowing you to walk with a lighter daypack. A guide provides route management, local knowledge, communication, accommodation coordination and trekking support.
For most organised ABC treks, travelling with both gives you the greatest practical support.
Many teahouses provide charging facilities, although charging may cost extra and become more limited at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank is therefore advisable.
Mobile coverage varies considerably along the route. Some villages have reasonable reception, while other sections can have weak or unreliable signals.
Travellers should therefore avoid depending entirely on mobile connectivity for communication.
Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, and hot water can be limited around Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. It is better to expect basic mountain facilities rather than hotel-style services.
Good-grip trekking footwear, waterproof clothing and a rain cover for your backpack are particularly useful during wetter periods. Lower forest sections can also become muddy, and leeches may appear during prolonged wet weather.
Headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue or loss of appetite should not simply be dismissed as normal trekking tiredness. If symptoms become significant or worsen, continuing higher can be dangerous.
Your guide can assess the situation and help arrange rest or descent when necessary. The CDC recommends gradual acclimatization and descending when altitude illness becomes serious or symptoms worsen.
The itinerary reaches Ghorepani, climbs to Poon Hill, continues through Tadapani and Chhomrong, and then follows the Modi Khola valley into the Annapurna Sanctuary before reaching ABC.
This combination gives you both the famous sunrise viewpoint and the experience of walking into the high mountain sanctuary.
Not exactly. Mardi Himal and ABC have different trail characters and landscapes. Combining them requires thoughtful route planning rather than simply placing the two destinations next to each other in an itinerary.
A helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp can be arranged as an optional service, subject to weather, aircraft availability, operational conditions and additional cost.
No. Mountain flights are weather-dependent, so a helicopter should never be treated as a guaranteed departure at a particular time.
Higher sections can become very cold, and snowfall may affect the upper route. Trekkers need suitable winter clothing and should check current trail and weather conditions before departure.
Yes, but monsoon trekking is considerably wetter.
Lower Annapurna receives substantial rainfall, which can make trails muddy and slippery. Clouds may obscure mountain views, streams can carry more water and leeches may appear in forest sections.
Travellers choosing monsoon dates should prepare specifically for wet conditions.
Teahouses generally serve dal bhat, noodles, momos, soups, potatoes, eggs, pasta, Tibetan bread, porridge, tea and other simple meals.
Yes. A few personal snacks such as chocolate, nuts, energy bars or dried fruit can be useful during longer walking days, particularly when you need a quick source of energy between teahouses.
Yes, water is available at teahouses and designated refill points along the route. Use a reliable water purification method where appropriate and follow your guide's advice about where to refill.
Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees for personal expenses and possible additional charges before entering the higher trekking sections. Charging, hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks and other services may involve separate fees.
Charging is available at many teahouses but may cost extra and become limited higher on the route.
A power bank is strongly recommended, especially if you use your phone for photography, navigation or communication.
Families can undertake ABC when the children and adults are comfortable with sustained walking and the itinerary is planned at an appropriate pace.
A private itinerary can be useful because it provides greater flexibility with rest periods, walking speed and overnight stops. Families can also discuss a slower itinerary if the standard schedule feels too demanding.
Age alone does not determine whether someone can complete the trek. Fitness, previous trekking experience, response to altitude and general health are more important factors.
Older travellers should prepare carefully and seek appropriate medical advice when necessary before undertaking a high-altitude trek.
Yes. The itinerary can be adjusted according to your available time, walking pace, group size and preferred trekking style.
Possible variations include:
A customised itinerary can also add rest days or adjust overnight stops when your group prefers shorter walking days.
Booking the trek does not need to be complicated.
First, send us your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and any particular requirements. We then discuss whether the standard 13-day itinerary suits your group or whether a shorter, longer or private version would make more sense. Once the route is agreed, we confirm the accommodation, transportation, guide, porter arrangements and applicable permits. Before you arrive in Nepal, we provide the information you need to prepare for the trek.
The basic booking process is:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a stronger sense of remoteness, Tibetan-influenced villages and a high mountain crossing at Larkya La.
It suits travellers who want a longer, more isolated circuit rather than a relatively compact sanctuary trek.
The Langtang Trek provides a Himalayan experience closer to Kathmandu, with forests, Tamang communities and a high valley surrounded by mountains.
It can be a practical alternative for travellers who have less time for transport to western Nepal.
The Everest route remains the obvious choice for travellers whose primary objective is the Khumbu and Everest itself.
Our Everest Base Camp Hike follows the classic Khumbu experience through Sherpa villages and high mountain terrain.
For travellers seeking a much more remote journey, the Kanchenjunga Trekking package takes you into eastern Nepal around the world's third-highest mountain.
Kanchenjunga requires more time and commitment than ABC, but it offers a substantially different experience of Himalayan remoteness.
Upper Mustang provides another contrast. Instead of the heavily forested southern Annapurna approach, the northern Mustang landscape is dry, high and strongly influenced by Tibetan culture.
The important point is that “the Annapurna region” does not describe one single trekking experience. ABC, the Circuit, Mardi Himal, Poon Hill and lesser-known routes appeal to different travellers for different reasons.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins long before you see the first high mountain.
It begins in Kathmandu, continues through the road journey to Pokhara and then moves gradually into the Annapurna foothills. You walk through cultivated hills, Gurung villages and rhododendron forests before reaching the long staircases of Chhomrong. From there, the trail follows the Modi Khola through Bamboo and Dovan, climbs towards Deurali and finally leaves the forest behind around Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
At Annapurna Base Camp, the landscape has changed completely.
There are no terraced fields around you. The forest has disappeared. The mountains dominate the basin, and the cold becomes part of the experience.
Then you walk back down.
The forest returns, the air becomes warmer and the river becomes louder. At Jhinu Danda, you can sit in the natural hot springs beside the river before continuing towards the lower hills and Pokhara.
That gradual change is what makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek worth taking.
It is not simply a walk to 4,130 metres. It is a journey through Nepal's villages, forests, river valleys, changing climates and high Himalayan landscape.
For current itinerary details, you can explore our Annapurna Base Camp Trek package or discuss a private version based on your dates, group size and preferred pace.
Your Annapurna journey begins when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative receives you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel.
There is no reason to fill the first day with activities after an international flight. Kathmandu is busy, noisy and energetic, and most travellers benefit from having time to settle in, recover from the journey and check their trekking equipment. If you arrive early enough, you can walk around the nearby streets or spend some time in Thamel.
Your guide will brief you about the trekking route and the conditions you are likely to encounter. This is also a sensible time to check boots, rain protection, warm clothing, trekking poles and other equipment. Anything you have forgotten is considerably easier to replace in Kathmandu than in a mountain village.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Today combines cultural sightseeing with final preparation for the trek.
Kathmandu provides a useful introduction to Nepal before you enter the Annapurna landscape. Depending on the sightseeing arrangement, you can visit places such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath or the historic squares of the Kathmandu Valley.
The contrast is worth noticing. Within a few days you will move from crowded streets and centuries-old urban settlements into quiet mountain villages where the pace of life is considerably slower.
Use the rest of the day to organise your trekking equipment. Your guide can check the route and explain the expected walking conditions, while you make sure that your daypack contains the things you will need during the day rather than leaving everything buried in your main luggage.
Overnight: Kathmandu
The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes you through Nepal's middle hills. The road follows river valleys and winding mountain sections, with terraced fields, villages and forested slopes appearing along the way.
Pokhara sits beside Phewa Lake and serves as one of the principal gateways to the Annapurna region. The atmosphere is considerably more relaxed than Kathmandu, and on clear days the surrounding mountains can already give you an idea of what lies ahead.
The road journey is part of the geographical transition of the trip. You leave the dense Kathmandu Valley behind and move towards the foothills where the trekking route begins.
After reaching Pokhara, you can rest and prepare for the first walking day.
Overnight: Pokhara
After travelling from Pokhara towards the trekking trailhead, you begin walking through the lower Annapurna foothills.
The exact road access and starting point can vary according to the condition of the road and the final itinerary, but the character of the trail becomes clear quickly. The lower hills are warmer than the upper Annapurna valley, and after rain they can feel surprisingly humid.
Then the stairs begin.
Stone steps are a defining feature of the Annapurna foothills. They connect villages and steep agricultural slopes, but they also make the route more physically demanding than a simple distance calculation suggests. You might cover only a few kilometres yet spend a considerable amount of time climbing.
The landscape gradually changes as you gain elevation. Terraced farmland gives way to forest, while mountain villages appear between the cultivated slopes. Eventually, the trail reaches Ghorepani, where the cooler air becomes noticeable.
Overnight: Ghorepani
You leave Ghorepani before sunrise for Poon Hill, one of the best-known viewpoints in the Annapurna region.
The early start is deliberate. Before sunrise, the viewpoint can be cold and dark, and the climb feels like an ordinary pre-breakfast walk. Then the eastern sky begins to brighten and the mountains gradually emerge.
From Poon Hill, views can include Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and other peaks depending on visibility. At the top there is a coffee shop you can purchase hot water, tea or coffee and enjoy the stunning view of Annapurna range.
After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, you continue towards Tadapani. This section passes through forest, and the vegetation becomes particularly attractive during spring when rhododendrons are flowering.
The route is not simply a downhill or uphill walk. It repeatedly rises and falls, which is why trekkers often find the day more tiring than the stated distance suggests.
Overnight: Tadapani
The trail continues through forest before reaching the village of Chhomrong.
Chhomrong is an important settlement on the route into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Its Gurung character is visible in the village architecture, terraced farmland and local way of life. The settlement also occupies a striking position above the valley, giving you a clear sense of how much elevation the trail has gained.
The trail around Chhomrong deserves particular attention because of its stairs.
Trekkers sometimes look at the map and assume that a nearby village means an easy walking day. The trail does not work that way here. The terrain repeatedly climbs and descends through stone steps, so the vertical movement can be much greater than the horizontal distance suggests. The descent can be just as tiring as the climb. After several hours of walking, hundreds of steps place considerable pressure on tired knees and feet. Trekking poles can be useful, particularly on wet stone. Chhomrong also marks a change in the nature of the trek. From here, you are heading deeper into the Modi Khola valley and towards the sanctuary.
Overnight: Chhomrong
You descend from Chhomrong and continue towards the deeper part of the valley.
This is where the forest becomes one of the main features of the journey. Bamboo, rhododendron and other vegetation create an enclosed environment around the trail. Waterfalls and streams appear along the route, and the sound of flowing water often becomes more noticeable than the mountains themselves.
The trail around Bamboo and Dovan can be damp. After rainfall, stone steps and exposed roots become slippery, and a careful pace matters more than trying to walk quickly.
The temperature also changes with the forest and elevation. Even when the lower villages feel warm, the shaded forest can be cool.
Overnight: Bamboo
You continue towards Deurali through increasingly rugged terrain.
The vegetation gradually becomes less dense as you gain elevation. The forest still accompanies sections of the route, but the valley begins to open and the mountains become more prominent.
The Modi Khola and its tributaries remain an important part of the landscape. Water has shaped the valley, and the trail repeatedly crosses or follows smaller streams as it climbs.
By Deurali, the change is unmistakable. You have moved beyond the warm lower forest environment and into a landscape where altitude, rock and mountain weather increasingly determine the character of the trail.
Overnight: Deurali
This is the most anticipated walking day of the trek.
From Deurali, the trail continues towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The vegetation becomes sparse, the valley opens and the surrounding mountain walls become increasingly dominant.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp sits at approximately 3,700 metres. Machhapuchhre, meaning Fishtail, rises above the valley with its distinctive twin-peaked profile. MBC is not a climbing base for an ascent of Machhapuchhre. The mountain is regarded as sacred, and climbing it is prohibited.
The change from the lower trail is striking. You have left the dense forests behind, and the landscape is now predominantly rock, snow and high mountain terrain. From MBC, the trail continues into the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The approach to the sanctuary is relatively enclosed because of the shape of the valley. As you move farther inside, however, the surrounding mountains become increasingly visible. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhre form parts of the surrounding skyline. The exact view depends on cloud, season and light.
Eventually, the trail reaches Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres. At this altitude, the cold is noticeable, especially after sunset. Keep your insulated jacket, gloves and warm hat accessible. You do not want to unpack your entire bag simply because the temperature has dropped after dinner.
Overnight: Annapurna Base Camp
The descent from Annapurna Base Camp retraces the trail through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya and Bamboo before continuing toward Sinuwa. The landscape gradually becomes greener and warmer as you lose altitude. After the cold, exposed surroundings of the sanctuary, the return to the forested Modi Khola valley is noticeable.
Overnight: Sinuwa
The trail descends from Sinuwa through the lower valley before reaching Jhinu Danda. The vegetation becomes denser and the air warmer as the altitude drops. Jhinu is particularly known for its natural hot springs beside the river.
The hot springs are reached by descending from the village. After spending time in the warm pools beside the river, you climb back to Jhinu Danda for the night. For many trekkers, that short climb feels worthwhile after several days of long mountain walks, stone steps and cold mornings.
Overnight: Jhinu Danda
The final trekking section takes you through the lower hills towards Nayapul.
The landscape is now warmer and more cultivated. The high alpine environment has disappeared, replaced by villages, terraces, forest and roads. After reaching Nayapul, you travel by road to Pokhara. The change can feel surprisingly rapid. A few days earlier you were walking among snow-covered peaks at 4,130 metres. Now you are back among lower hills and settlements.
Overnight: Pokhara
You return from Pokhara to Kathmandu according to the transport arrangement.
If your international flight is later in the day, you can use the remaining time for final shopping, rest or preparation before travelling to the airport.
Your 13-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek ends here.
The package can include the following services, according to the final confirmed quotation:
Unless specifically stated in the quotation, travellers should budget separately for:
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 | USD 1,190 |
| 2-5 | USD 1,090 |
| 6-10 | USD 1,036 |
| 11-15 | USD 981 |
| 16-25 | USD 927 |
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 | USD 1,743 |
| 2-5 | USD 1,597 |
| 6-10 | USD 1,518 |
| 11-15 | USD 1,437 |
| 16-25 | USD 1,358 |
The ABC Trek is generally considered moderate to moderately challenging. It does not require technical climbing, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days. The route includes substantial stone staircases, repeated ascents and descents, uneven terrain and increasing altitude.
The trail becomes physically more demanding around Chhomrong and the upper Modi Khola valley. The final approach to ABC is not technically difficult, but the altitude, cold and longer walking hours can make the effort feel considerably harder than it does in the lower hills.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal for clear mountain views, pleasant weather, and blooming rhododendrons.
Nepal Himalayas Trekking does not advocate solo trekking even if ABC is open for solo trekkers. Weather conditions for this trek can be unforeseen and unpredictable. We recommend hiring a guide and porter.
Secure an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card, available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Teahouses along the trail offer basic yet comfortable lodging with communal dining areas. We will stay in the basic teahouses and with shared rooms. The communal dining and limited facilities at the higher altitudes.
Essentials include trekking boots, warm clothing, a good backpack, a sleeping bag, and personal items. Layered clothing that covers your whole body is recommended. Packing the moisture-wicking shirts, insulated layers, and waterproof jackets. Trekking pants, boots, gloves, and a warm hat are a must. A detailed packing list is provided by trekking agencies.
Both options are viable. Independent trekkers should be well-prepared, while joining a group or hiring a guide ensures better support and safety.
Wi-Fi and mobile services are available in some teahouses, but connections may vary. Informing family of potential communication challenges is advisable.
The itinerary presented here takes 13 days from Kathmandu and back to Kathmandu. It includes Kathmandu preparation, travel to Pokhara, the Poon Hill section, the Annapurna Sanctuary, the return through Jhinu Danda and the final journey back to Kathmandu.
Travellers with limited time can choose a shorter itinerary, while those who prefer a more relaxed pace can add additional nights.
The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres (13,549 feet).
Machhapuchhre Base Camp sits at approximately 3,700 metres and is the major overnight stop before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. From here, the trail continues into the Annapurna Sanctuary and climbs gradually towards ABC.
Yes, generally. Poon Hill reaches 3,210 metres and can be completed within a much shorter trekking itinerary, whereas ABC reaches 4,130 metres and involves several additional days of walking through steeper and more varied terrain.
The stone steps around Chhomrong, repeated elevation changes and longer upper-valley walking days make ABC considerably more demanding than a standalone Poon Hill trek.
The two treks challenge trekkers in different ways.
Everest Base Camp reaches a considerably higher altitude, making acclimatization a greater concern. ABC, meanwhile, has extensive stone staircases and repeated climbs and descents, particularly through the lower and middle sections of the route.
Your fitness, previous trekking experience, acclimatization and walking pace can significantly influence how difficult either trek feels.
You should be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven trails and stone stairs. Training with regular uphill and downhill walking before the trek can make a noticeable difference.
A private guide can also help you maintain a suitable pace rather than feeling pressured to keep up with a faster group.
A good local guide does much more than lead the way. They coordinate accommodation, communicate with teahouse staff, monitor the group's walking pace, explain local culture and geography, and help respond when weather, health or trail conditions create an unexpected problem.
A knowledgeable guide can also point out details that are easy to miss when travelling independently, from changing vegetation around different elevations to the history and traditions of the villages along the route.
Porter-only arrangements may be possible depending on the current regulations and service arrangement.
A porter primarily carries your luggage, allowing you to walk with a lighter daypack. A guide provides route management, local knowledge, communication, accommodation coordination and trekking support.
For most organised ABC treks, travelling with both gives you the greatest practical support.
ABC is considerably colder than Pokhara and the lower villages.
The cold becomes particularly noticeable after sunset and before sunrise. Wind and cloud can make conditions feel colder still. Exact temperatures vary according to season and weather, so it is better to prepare with proper warm layers than to rely on one expected temperature.
Electricity is available at many settlements, but reliability and charging arrangements vary.
Many teahouses provide charging facilities, although charging may cost extra and become more limited at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank is therefore advisable.
Wi-Fi is available at some teahouses, but the connection can be slow or unreliable, particularly farther inside the sanctuary.
You should not plan the trek on the assumption that you will have continuous internet access.
Mobile coverage varies considerably along the route. Some villages have reasonable reception, while other sections can have weak or unreliable signals.
Travellers should therefore avoid depending entirely on mobile connectivity for communication.
Many lower and middle-elevation teahouses offer hot showers, usually for an additional charge.
Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, and hot water can be limited around Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. It is better to expect basic mountain facilities rather than hotel-style services.
Rain can make stone steps, roots and forest trails slippery. Visibility may also deteriorate as clouds settle around the hills.
Good-grip trekking footwear, waterproof clothing, leech protective socks and a rain cover for your backpack are particularly useful during wetter periods. Lower forest sections can also become muddy, and leeches may appear during prolonged wet weather.
Tell your guide as soon as you notice symptoms.
Headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue or loss of appetite should not simply be dismissed as normal trekking tiredness. If symptoms become significant or worsen, continuing higher can be dangerous.
Your guide can assess the situation and help arrange rest or descent when necessary. The CDC recommends gradual acclimatization and descending when altitude illness becomes serious or symptoms worsen.
Yes. The 13-day itinerary on this page already combines Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp.
The itinerary reaches Ghorepani, climbs to Poon Hill, continues through Tadapani and Chhomrong, and then follows the Modi Khola valley into the Annapurna Sanctuary before reaching ABC.
This combination gives you both the famous sunrise viewpoint and the experience of walking into the high mountain sanctuary.
Yes, provided you have enough time and choose an appropriate route.
Not exactly. Mardi Himal and ABC have different trail characters and landscapes. Combining them requires thoughtful route planning rather than simply placing the two destinations next to each other in an itinerary.
A helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp can be arranged as an optional service, subject to weather, aircraft availability, operational conditions and additional cost.
No. Mountain flights are weather-dependent, so a helicopter should never be treated as a guaranteed departure at a particular time.
Yes. The standard ABC route uses teahouse accommodation, so camping is generally unnecessary for the classic itinerary.
Accommodation is generally simple, with basic rooms and shared facilities in many locations. Facilities become more limited as you approach the higher elevations.
Yes, but winter requires additional preparation.
Higher sections can become very cold, and snowfall may affect the upper route. Trekkers need suitable winter clothing and should check current trail and weather conditions before departure.
Yes, but monsoon trekking is considerably wetter.
Lower Annapurna receives substantial rainfall, which can make trails muddy and slippery. Clouds may obscure mountain views, streams can carry more water and leeches may appear in forest sections.
Travellers choosing monsoon dates should prepare specifically for wet conditions.
Teahouses generally serve dal bhat, noodles, momos, soups, potatoes, eggs, pasta, Tibetan bread, porridge, tea and other simple meals.
Yes. Menus normally become simpler as you climb because transporting supplies farther into the sanctuary is more difficult.
Dal bhat is particularly popular among trekkers because it provides a filling meal and is often available with additional portions.
You do not normally need to carry all your meals because teahouses provide food throughout the route.
Yes. A few personal snacks such as chocolate, nuts, energy bars or dried fruit can be useful during longer walking days, particularly when you need a quick source of energy between teahouses.
The amount you need depends on the day's walking distance, weather and available refill points.
Yes, water is available at teahouses and designated refill points along the route. Use a reliable water purification method where appropriate and follow your guide's advice about where to refill.
You should not plan your trek around ATM availability.
Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees for personal expenses and possible additional charges before entering the higher trekking sections. Charging, hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks and other services may involve separate fees.
Charging is available at many teahouses but may cost extra and become limited higher on the route.
A power bank is strongly recommended, especially if you use your phone for photography, navigation or communication.
Families can undertake ABC when the children and adults are comfortable with sustained walking and the itinerary is planned at an appropriate pace.
A private itinerary can be useful because it provides greater flexibility with rest periods, walking speed and overnight stops. Families can also discuss a slower itinerary if the standard schedule feels too demanding.
Age alone does not determine whether someone can complete the trek. Fitness, previous trekking experience, response to altitude and general health are more important factors.
Older travellers should prepare carefully and seek appropriate medical advice when necessary before undertaking a high-altitude trek.
Yes. The itinerary can be adjusted according to your available time, walking pace, group size and preferred trekking style.
Possible variations include:
A customised itinerary can also add rest days or adjust overnight stops when your group prefers shorter walking days.
For those with limited time, a 7-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp is possible but challenging. This condensed itinerary requires a high level of fitness and a quicker pace.
It typically excludes some of the acclimatization days and longer stops along the trail. This option is suitable for experienced trekkers who want to experience the highlights of the trek in a shorter time frame.
Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be extended with a day of sightseeing in and around Kathmandu before the trek or after you return from the mountains. If you have extra time in Nepal, we can arrange a private day trip that combines Kathmandu’s heritage sites with the hilltop views of Nagarkot or Chandragiri.
A one-day Kathmandu sightseeing tour is a good way to begin or finish your trekking holiday. The day can be tailored around your interests and may include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, followed by time in the hills surrounding the valley.
For travellers interested in Himalayan views, Nagarkot offers a quieter setting above Kathmandu Valley. On a clear morning or late afternoon, the ridge provides wide views across the Himalayan range, while the surrounding villages, fields and forest give a different impression of Nepal from the busy streets of Kathmandu.
Another option is Chandragiri Hills, reached by cable car from the southern edge of Kathmandu Valley. From the hilltop, you can look across the valley towards the Himalayan range on clear days. The area also has a forested setting and the Bhaleshwar Mahadev Temple, making it suitable for travellers who want a short mountain escape without committing to another trek.
You can add:
Tell us how many extra days you have, and we can adjust the programme around your Annapurna Base Camp Trek while keeping the main trekking itinerary unchanged.
We are two girl from Thailand. But currently we are living in Australia. We have quite short days in Nepal for Annapurna base camp trek. We have just 9 days in Nepal. When we inquiry with Nepal Himalayas Trekking about Annapurna base camp trek then with in a day Mr. Prakash replied with us along his cost. According to our duration he offering 7 Days Annapurna base camp trek itinerary with out Poon hill trek. It make sence and we confirmed this Annapurna base camp trek with Nepal Himalayas Trekking. In the end of August we started our trek. There is quite raining during the trek but we have lots of fun with our guide and Porter. We are satisfied with them.
Thank you very much for everything. Have a good day.
Mery
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My trip was from November 27th to December 4th and the weather was perfect. The grandstands were not crowded at all. It was cold in ABC, but it was doable. It was one of the most strenuous hikes with endless stairs. But you will have as many breaks as you like in the tea rooms and/or lodges.Day 1 (Banthanti – Ghoreapani) ascent: 919m / descent: 434m Day 2 (Ghoreapani – Poonhill) ascent: 319m / descent: 301m Day 2 (Poonhill – Chuile) ascent: 631m / descent: 1205m Day 3 (Chuile – Sinuwa) Ascent: 739 m / Descent: 858 m Day 4 (Sinuwa - Deurali) Ascent: 1554 m / Descent: 470 m Day 5 (Deurali - ABC) Ascent: 924 m / Descent: 30 m Day 6 (ABC ) - Sinuwa) Ascent: 378m / Descent: 2374m Day 7 (Sinuwa - Jhinu Danda) Ascent: 432m / Descent: 807m.
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I had a wonderful time during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September. There been raining for a couple of days but I have seen an incredible view from Poon Hill. Mr. Prakash from Nepal Himalayas Trekking organized my 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek In September. My trip was fantastic. My Guide Mr. Aadhitiya and Porter Mr. Nakul Khadka are very helpful and lovely. I have a chance to learn so many Nepali languages.
Thank you very much Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company & Prakash Lamsal for providing such a fabulous Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September.
Thanks
Pascalline
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We are from Japan. This is our first time in Nepal. We did Annapurna Base Camp Camp Trek in Autumn with Nepal Himalayas Trekking. This Tour Company offers an affordable cost of US$ 990. Thank you very much Prakash for this trip and for your well organising. I and my friend enjoyed a lot.
During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn, we explore the beautiful city of Nepal is called Pokhara and see the unique Gurung culture in Ghorepani and Chhumrung Village. There are great scenery of white snow in the Nepal Himalayas including Mount Annapurna. For sure we will visit again in Nepal in 2024 for Everest Base Camp Trek.
Thanks a lot, Mr. Prakash.
Nagai from Japan
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Wow! Probably Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company is the best trekking agency in Nepal. I and my friend just finished 10 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek with the team of Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company. We are very satisfied with this Tour Company. The owner Prakash Lamsal welcomed us at Kathmandu Airport and provided a very helpful Guide and Porter for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal. We are from Japan. For sure we will recommend this Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company for any kind of trek in Nepal. And by myself will come to Nepal Again in 2024 for Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Thank you very much & Cheers
Kato Soma
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The whole trek was amazing and I had a lot of fun during the trek to Annapurna Trek Base camp. The Nepal Himalayas Trekking company did great work, especially the guide he was like a friend to me, showing me all the beautiful places. It was a lot of cold sometimes but I managed to pass through the cold nights. The food was delicious. The little tea houses was so nice. I have to thank you to the Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company for the great work and honesty.
Thanks and see you next time.
Sergio
We are 3 People from Italy. We have booked the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Nepal Himalayas Trekking. Mr. Prakash, the owner of Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company organised our 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp trek in January. During our trek, there are cold but the weather was fantastic. We had a wonderful time in the Annapurna Region.
We are satisfied and more than happy with Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company in Nepal. You are perfect recommended and trustworthy trekking agency in Nepal. For Sure we will tell to our friends about your hospitality. Have a wonderful time.
Thanks
Amani
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Me and my friend reached Annapurna Base Camp Trek on 10th October, which day is my 23rd Birthday. We have booked our Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Nepal Himalayas Trekking in Nepal. Thank you very much Prakash for such an incredible Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October. Our Guide Bharat and Porter Bhimsen are very helpful and kind.
Specially, for me the Annapurna Base Camp trek was really great, where I am able to celebrate my 23rd birthday at the elevation of 4200 M. During our trek, we are able explore in the beautiful village of the Annapurna Region. In the street of Thamel, Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company is the highly recommend trekking ageny in Nepal.
Thank you very much for your great Services.
With Best Regards
Marek and Federico.
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I am a Solo traveler from the USA. I Booked my Annapurna Base Camp Trek with the Nepal Himalayas Trekking in 2024. We got an affordable cost and helpful trekking guide for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal in 2024. It was great memory with Nepal Himalayas Trekking in 2024. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Pokhara city.
Pokhara is the beautiful city of Nepal. Thank you very much Nepal Himalayas Trekking team for your great hospitality for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal in 2024
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We are 29 people from France (Reunion). All 29 people successfully reached to the Annapurna Base Camp. Thank you very much Mr. Prakash for your great hospitality. During our Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the weather was not very good in May. But other everything was fantastic. This time Mr. Prakash doing this trek with us as a Trekking Guide.
There are lovely mountain people, delicious meals, a unique traditional culture, and many other things. All our porters are very innocent, lovely and helpful. They are always ready to help us and want to being as a Mountain Tiger. We proudly say our Annapurna Base Camp Trek in May 2024 was incredible with Nepal Himalayas Trekking.
Once again thank you very much for your great hospitality and wishing all the best for your entire team.
Show More Wonderful trek with Aditya, a great guide, funny, kind, attentive and always there to help if needed. He did everything to make us as comfortable as possible, it was perfect. With him you feel safe, he will make you have a great trek. The landscapes of the trek are magnificent from start to finish. It was our first trek and we are not disappointed at all. I highly recommend this agency.
Show More We just finished our 9 days trek to Annapurna base camp and we are verry happy of this exp??rience. It was very challenging but our guide Aditya took really good care of us, he was so funny and help all the way. We had good accomodations, saw many incredible landscapes, meet many people on the way and the view on ABC is amazing. The journey was very well organised, for a first trek it was the best! Thank you!
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My Annapurna Base Camp trek including Poon Hill was beyond spectacular, and it's all thanks to Mr. Prakash Lamsal and the incredible team at Nepal Himalayas Trekking. The early morning hike to Poon Hill gifted us a surreal sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges—absolutely magical. The journey from the lush rhododendron forests to the icy amphitheater of ABC felt like walking through a dreamscape. The guides were knowledgeable, funny, and deeply respectful of nature and culture. This wasn't just a trek—it was a personal transformation
Thanks
Jimmy
We are still reminiscing about the magical days trekking through the Annapurna region! From the warm hospitality in the villages to the snow-capped serenity at base camp, every step was perfectly orchestrated by Mr. Prakash Lamsal and Nepal Himalayas Trekking. Prakash ensured we were safe, well-acclimatized, and immersed in the culture. The tea houses were cozy, the guides became friends, and the views—just WOW. If you're looking for an intimate and soul-refreshing Himalayan experience, this is the team to trust.
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Even though I began this trek alone, I never felt like a solo traveler, thanks to the caring, professional team led by Mr. Prakash Lamsal. The combined route of Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill gave me a perfect balance—breathtaking panoramic sunrises and the dramatic Himalayan basin at ABC. Every logistical detail was handled smoothly, and I always felt supported. Prakash was not just an organizer, but a friend and guide through the mountains. Highly recommend this journey to anyone craving both adventure and peace.
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As a female traveler, safety and guidance were key, and Mr. Prakash Lamsal delivered far beyond expectations. My trek combining Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal was a mix of raw nature and pristine solitude. Mardi Himal felt untouched and wild, while ABC was simply majestic. The team ensured I had comfortable stays, great food, and a personalized experience at every step. The sunrise from the Mardi ridge was something I will never forget. This trek wasn't just a trip—it was empowerment in motion. Thank you, Prakash, for making it extraordinary.
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The Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek (7 Days) is an unforgettable adventure that combines stunning natural beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of accomplishment.
View DetailsThe Annapurna Base Camp Trek 13 Days begins in the busy Kathmandu Valley, moves west towards Pokhara, and then enters the Annapurna foothills before following the Modi Khola deep into the mountains. During the trek, the landscape changes repeatedly. Terraced farmland and warm lower hills give way to Gurung and Magar settlements, rhododendron and bamboo forests, steep river valleys, alpine meadows and finally the high mountain basin of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The highest point of the journey is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres, where Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and several surrounding peaks rise around the sanctuary. The approach is just as important as the destination. You pass through Ghorepani and climb to Poon Hill at 3,210 metres, walk through the forest around Tadapani, negotiate the long stone staircases around Chhomrong, follow the Modi Khola through Bamboo and Dovan, and gradually leave the forest behind as you approach Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
This route is often described as a moderate trek, and that description is fair, but it does not tell the whole story. The difficulty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek comes from the shape of the trail as much as from its altitude. There are long stone staircases, repeated ascents and descents, uneven sections after rain and increasingly cold conditions above Deurali. A five-hour walking day can therefore feel considerably harder than the distance suggests.
The cultural side of the journey is equally important. The route passes through villages where farming, tourism and traditional mountain life exist alongside one another. Teahouse kitchens become gathering places in the evening, porters carry supplies towards the higher settlements, prayer flags appear around villages and viewpoints, and the sound of the Modi Khola accompanies much of the approach to the sanctuary.
For travellers who want a Himalayan trek that combines villages, forests, culture and a close approach to enormous mountain walls without reaching the extreme elevations of the Everest region, this 13-day ABC itinerary provides a particularly balanced route.
| Trek Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Duration | 13 Days |
| Destination | Annapurna Base Camp |
| Highest Point | 4,130 m / 13,549 ft |
| Region | Annapurna |
| Difficulty | Moderate to moderately challenging |
| Accommodation | Hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara and teahouses during the trek |
| Major Viewpoint | Poon Hill, 3,210 m |
| Major Mountain Pass | None |
| Main River Valley | Modi Khola |
| Main Cultural Communities | Gurung and Magar communities |
| Starting Area | Pokhara / Nayapul-Ulleri trail area |
| Ending Area | Nayapul / Pokhara |
| Best Seasons | Spring and autumn |
| Trekking Style | Guided teahouse trek |
| Maximum Elevation | 4,130 m at ABC |
| Suitable For | Prepared beginners, experienced trekkers, private groups and families with suitable pacing |
The attraction of ABC is not confined to standing at 4,130 metres. The route gives you a remarkably concentrated experience of Nepal's mountain geography.
You begin in the middle hills, where roads, farmland and settlements are still common. After entering the trekking trail, the surroundings gradually become more rural. Stone steps lead through villages and forests, and the trail begins following rivers and mountain streams. Around Bamboo and Dovan, dense vegetation can hide much of the wider landscape. Above Deurali, the trees become sparse and the valley starts to look distinctly alpine. At Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the mountains feel close enough to dominate every direction of the view.
Then comes the sanctuary itself.
The Annapurna Sanctuary is a high natural basin enclosed by some of the most recognisable peaks in the region. The sense of arrival comes from the landscape opening around you after the narrower approach through the Modi Khola valley.
The route therefore offers several different trekking experiences within one journey:
Route: Kathmandu → Pokhara → Poon Hill → Chhomrong → Bamboo → Deurali → MBC → ABC (4,130 m) → Sinuwa → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara → Kathmandu.
The easiest way to understand the ABC route is to follow the changing geography.
The journey begins among Nepal's middle hills, where terraced agriculture and villages dominate. The trail then enters increasingly dense forest before following the Modi Khola into a narrower mountain valley. Above Deurali, the forest thins rapidly and the landscape becomes alpine. At MBC and ABC, the mountains themselves dominate the surroundings.
The Nepal Tourism Board also describes the Annapurna region as a landscape of considerable contrasts, extending from forested middle mountains into high Himalayan and trans-Himalayan environments. That geographical progression is one of the strongest reasons to choose ABC.
Pokhara is more than the starting point printed on an itinerary. It is the transition between Nepal's urban environment and the Annapurna foothills.
Once you leave the city, terraced fields begin to dominate the hillsides. Roads reach many settlements, but walking remains an important part of village life. The lower section can also be much warmer than travellers expect, particularly during spring or before the monsoon. The contrast becomes increasingly obvious as you gain altitude.
Chhomrong is one of the most recognisable settlements on the ABC route because of its position above the valley and its extensive stone staircases. The stairs should not be treated as an inconvenience added to an otherwise easy route. They are part of the way people have connected settlements across steep mountain terrain.
For trekkers, they create a practical lesson: kilometres alone do not tell you how difficult a Himalayan walking day will feel.
The Bamboo and Dovan section has a very different atmosphere from the open landscapes around Poon Hill. Dense vegetation surrounds much of the trail. Bamboo and rhododendron grow around the valley, while streams and waterfalls are common.
After rain, the character of the trail changes again. Wet stone, mud and roots can make footing more difficult, particularly during descent.
Deurali marks an important ecological and geographical transition.
The trees become smaller and less frequent, the valley becomes more exposed and the temperature drops. The trail is moving into an environment where snow, rock, glaciers and high mountain weather play a much greater role. This is also where trekkers begin to notice the effect of elevation more clearly.
MBC is one of the places where the journey suddenly feels remote.
There are fewer trees, fewer signs of agriculture and much less visual clutter. The mountain walls become the dominant feature. The settlement also gives trekkers a natural pause before the final approach to ABC.
At 4,130 metres, Annapurna Base Camp sits inside the sanctuary surrounded by enormous Himalayan peaks.
The base camp itself is only one part of the experience. The approach through the sanctuary, the changing weather, the cold evening and the sunrise the following morning all contribute to what makes the destination memorable.
The Annapurna Sanctuary is a high mountain basin enclosed by the Annapurna massif and surrounding peaks. The approach through the Modi Khola valley is comparatively narrow. That shape affects what you see. Mountains are often partially hidden as you walk upward, and then the landscape gradually opens as you move into the sanctuary.
This creates a very different visual experience from a viewpoint where the entire mountain range is visible from a distance. At ABC, the surrounding peaks include Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhre, although visibility varies with weather.
Sunrise is one of the reasons trekkers are willing to step outside into the cold before breakfast.
The light changes quickly on the surrounding peaks. A mountain that looked grey before sunrise can begin taking on orange and gold tones within minutes. Keep your camera, gloves, hat and warm jacket ready the night before. The cold is considerably more noticeable when you are standing still than when you are walking.
The ABC route crosses several ecological zones in a relatively short distance.
At the lower elevations, you encounter agricultural land and warmer vegetation. As you climb, forests become denser, with rhododendron, oak and bamboo among the characteristic plants. Above the forest line, vegetation becomes increasingly sparse until the sanctuary is dominated by rock, snow and alpine terrain.
This environmental change gives the trek a quality that is difficult to capture through a list of mountains alone. You can actually watch the vegetation change as the elevation increases.
Rhododendron is particularly important in the middle elevations, especially during spring flowering. Oak and other forest species appear alongside it, while bamboo becomes prominent in sections around the Modi Khola valley. At higher elevations, trees gradually disappear.
The change is subtle at first. A forest that looked dense a few hours earlier becomes more open, then increasingly sparse. Eventually, there are no tall trees at all.
The Annapurna Conservation Area contains a wide range of habitats and wildlife. Trekkers may encounter Himalayan tahr, langur, deer and Himalayan pheasants, among other mountain species. Sightings are never guaranteed, particularly because many animals avoid busy trails.
Birdlife can sometimes be easier to notice than larger mammals. The best approach is to observe quietly and keep your distance. Feeding wildlife or trying to approach animals for photographs is inappropriate in a protected landscape.
The Annapurna region contains a mixture of ethnic communities, languages and local traditions. Gurung and Magar communities form an important part of the cultural landscape encountered on trekking routes around the southern Annapurna foothills. Chhomrong is particularly associated with Gurung settlement, while the broader region contains many different communities.
Rather than describing every village as an “authentic mountain village,” it is more useful to notice the ordinary details of life: terraced fields, stone houses, local kitchens, family-run lodges, religious spaces and people moving between settlements.
The best cultural experience usually happens without a formal cultural performance. It comes while eating dinner in a teahouse, talking with a lodge owner or watching people work in the village around you.
Food becomes part of the trekking routine. Lower-elevation teahouses generally have more choice because supplies are easier to transport. As you move towards MBC and ABC, menus tend to become simpler.
Common meals include:
Dal bhat remains one of the most practical trekking meals, particularly on long walking days. It is filling, familiar throughout Nepal and often available with additional servings. At higher elevations, you should not expect the same menu variety that you find in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Teahouses are an essential part of the ABC experience.
Most provide simple bedrooms, beds, blankets and shared dining areas. Facilities become more basic as you move higher into the sanctuary. The dining room often becomes the centre of the evening. After sunset, trekkers gather for dinner, tea and conversation because the temperature outside drops quickly.
At higher elevations, electricity, charging and hot showers may be available but should not be treated as hotel-style services. A power bank and headlamp are worth carrying even when your accommodation advertises electricity.
ABC is a mountain settlement, not a luxury destination.
Expect simple rooms and basic facilities. The exact availability of heating, hot water, electricity, showers and charging depends on the lodge and current conditions. The most important adjustment is psychological. You should not compare an ABC teahouse with your hotel in Kathmandu.
At 4,130 metres, the priority is a warm meal, a dry bed, reasonable shelter and a safe place to rest before the descent.
The Modi Khola is one of the defining geographical features of the upper route.
The river drains the Annapurna Sanctuary and remains closely associated with the trekking trail as you move through the valley. Smaller streams and waterfalls feed into it, particularly through the forest sections. Around Bamboo and Dovan, the sound of water can accompany you for hours.
This is one of those details that photographs rarely communicate properly. The valley does not simply look green and mountainous. It sounds alive with running water.
Rain changes the experience considerably. Stone steps can become slippery, forest trails may become muddy and streams can carry more water. Cloud can also settle over the hills and hide mountain views. During wetter periods, trekkers may encounter leeches in the lower forest sections.
For that reason, a useful ABC packing list should include:
You do not need to fear rain, but you should prepare for it.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty is best described as moderate to moderately challenging. The route does not require technical climbing experience, ropes or mountaineering skills, but it is not an easy walk either. You will spend several consecutive days on your feet, usually walking for around five to seven hours, while the trail repeatedly climbs and descends through stone steps, forest paths and uneven mountain terrain. The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres, so altitude becomes another factor once you move above the forested sections. Nepal Himalayas Trekking also classifies the route as moderate to moderately challenging, with steep climbs, stone staircases and descents forming much of the physical challenge.
What makes the trek interesting is that its difficulty changes as the landscape changes. The lower trail around the Annapurna foothills can feel warm and relatively comfortable, but the long stair sections begin testing your legs. Around Chhomrong, for example, the trail repeatedly rises and falls through stone steps. The distance between two places may look short on an itinerary, yet the actual walking time can be considerably longer because you are gaining or losing elevation rather than simply walking across level ground. Trekkers who arrive expecting the kilometres to tell the whole story often find the stairs more tiring than expected.
The descent can be just as important as the climb. After reaching Annapurna Base Camp, you still have several days of walking before returning to the lower hills. Your knees and feet have already worked for a week by this point, and long downhill sections can feel harder than they did at the beginning of the trek. This is one reason we recommend building stair walking and downhill walking into your preparation rather than relying only on flat-ground cardio.
The forest section between Bamboo, Dovan and Deurali brings a different kind of challenge. The trail can be damp and slippery after rain, with stone surfaces, exposed roots, muddy sections, streams and waterfalls along the way. You may not be walking at extreme altitude yet, but the terrain requires careful footing. A pair of properly broken-in trekking boots with good grip can make a noticeable difference here.
Above Deurali, altitude becomes increasingly relevant. The trees become fewer, the valley opens and the temperature drops as you approach Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. At 4,130 metres, you will naturally walk more slowly than you did around the lower villages. That does not necessarily mean something is wrong. Your body is simply working with less available oxygen, and allowing yourself more time is part of sensible high-altitude trekking.
For this reason, physical fitness matters, but pacing matters just as much. You do not need to be a marathon runner or an experienced Himalayan trekker. You should, however, be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days and handling sustained uphill and downhill sections. Regular hiking, stair climbing, long walks and some strength work for your legs before the trek will prepare you much better than occasional gym sessions alone.
If you are preparing for ABC for the first time, I would recommend focusing on these areas:
A first-time trekker can complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with sensible preparation. Previous Himalayan experience is helpful, but it is not a requirement. The more important question is whether you can comfortably walk for several hours a day, manage repeated stairs and recover well enough to walk again the following morning. Your current fitness, walking experience and the pace of your itinerary matter more than whether you have previously stood at a high Himalayan base camp.
The route is also more approachable because it does not demand technical mountaineering skills. You are trekking rather than climbing a peak, and the standard ABC route uses established trails and teahouse accommodation. The challenge comes from duration, terrain, elevation and cumulative fatigue, rather than technical climbing.
That distinction is worth making clearly on the page. Calling ABC simply “easy” can give first-time trekkers the wrong impression, while describing it as extremely difficult unnecessarily discourages people who are perfectly capable of completing it with preparation.
There is no single section that every trekker will find hardest. Chhomrong's stone stairs are often physically demanding because of the repeated elevation changes, while the Bamboo to Deurali section can feel tiring because of the uneven and sometimes slippery trail. The final approach from Deurali through Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp feels harder for a different reason: you are walking at much higher elevation, where your normal pace naturally slows.
The return journey has its own difficulty. After spending a night at ABC, you lose altitude quickly and eventually return to long sections of stone trail. Trekkers who have spent the previous day concentrating on reaching the base camp sometimes underestimate how much work remains on the way back.
You do not need a specialised mountaineering training programme for ABC, but you should prepare specifically for multi-day walking with elevation gain and loss. Start by making regular walking part of your routine. As your departure approaches, increase the duration of your weekend walks and introduce hills or stairs. It is particularly useful to practise walking on two consecutive days because ABC is not difficult because of one enormous walking day. Your body has to keep performing day after day.
If possible, include some longer hikes carrying the daypack you expect to use in Nepal. You will learn how your footwear feels after several hours, whether your backpack sits comfortably and how your body responds to sustained climbing. These are small things to discover at home rather than on the trail between Chhomrong and Bamboo.
Your own [Annapurna Base Camp Trek guide] can also be linked naturally here for readers who want a broader explanation of the route, altitude, preparation and practical considerations.
Altitude is one of the reasons ABC should not be treated like an ordinary hill walk. The route reaches 4,130 metres, and altitude-related symptoms can occur above 3,000 metres. Headache, nausea, dizziness, unusual tiredness and loss of appetite should not simply be dismissed as part of trekking. Nepal Himalayas Trekking recommends gradual ascent, sensible pacing, hydration and attention to symptoms during the journey.
Your guide should pay attention to how you are feeling rather than simply watching the clock. If you develop symptoms that are worsening or do not improve with rest, tell your guide immediately. The appropriate response to serious altitude illness is descent and medical assistance, not trying to push through because the day's destination is close.
This is also why the Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty should never be judged only by the maximum altitude. The physical terrain, weather, walking hours, sleep, hydration and cumulative fatigue all contribute to how the trek feels.
The simplest approach is to arrive prepared and avoid wasting energy on the trail. Start each day at a comfortable pace, eat properly, drink regularly and keep your warm and rain layers accessible. Do not wait until you are exhausted before taking a short break.
Your footwear deserves particular attention. The ABC trail contains long staircases, rocky paths, muddy forest sections and uneven surfaces, so shoes that are comfortable on a flat city walk may not be suitable for several consecutive days in the mountains.
A sensible itinerary also helps. There is little advantage in squeezing the route into the shortest possible number of days if doing so leaves you exhausted every afternoon. A slower private itinerary can be particularly useful for families, older trekkers or anyone who would rather enjoy the villages and landscape without constantly watching the clock.
For readers comparing ABC with other routes, your [Everest Base Camp Trek difficulty guide] is another useful internal link because it explains how altitude, walking duration, terrain and preparation affect difficulty on a higher Himalayan route.
ABC reaches 4,130 metres, so altitude deserves proper attention even though the trek does not reach the elevations encountered on the Everest Base Camp route. Your body needs time to adjust as you climb. The CDC's current Yellow Book recommends gradual ascent and notes that altitude illness can affect travellers sleeping above approximately 2,450 metres.
Common early symptoms can include headache, dizziness, unusual fatigue, nausea and reduced appetite. You should tell your guide if you develop symptoms rather than trying to hide them.
Never continue ascending simply because the itinerary says you should. If symptoms become serious or worsen despite rest, descending is an important part of responsible altitude management. The CDC also recommends that travellers with significant symptoms do not continue to higher sleeping elevations. Travellers with existing medical conditions should seek appropriate medical advice before travelling at altitude.
ABC is suitable for a wide range of trekkers when the itinerary and pace are appropriate.
A first-time Himalayan trekker can undertake the route with sensible preparation. Experienced hikers may find the overall distance manageable but still need to respect the altitude and stairs. Families can also consider the trek when children and adults are comfortable with sustained daily walking. Age alone does not determine whether someone should undertake the trek. Fitness, previous experience, walking habits, preparation and the pace of the itinerary matter much more.
A private itinerary can be particularly useful for travellers who prefer shorter walking days or more flexibility.
Spring is one of the most attractive seasons for ABC because the lower and middle forests can show extensive rhododendron flowering. Temperatures are generally comfortable at lower elevations, while the higher sanctuary remains cold.
Autumn is another popular period. The monsoon has usually reduced the dust and heat of the lower hills, and mountain visibility can be good. However, mountain weather is never completely predictable.
Winter brings colder conditions and a greater chance of snow at higher elevations. The sanctuary can become particularly cold. Trekkers choosing winter should be properly equipped for freezing conditions.
Rain is more frequent on the southern Annapurna slopes. Trails can become muddy and slippery, while clouds may obscure mountain views. The lower forest sections can also experience leeches. Check our Annapurna Best Season blog for more information.
The ABC route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, where conservation, tourism and local livelihoods are closely connected.
The protected area includes forests, wildlife habitats, mountain ecosystems and communities. The Annapurna region is also one of Nepal's most established trekking destinations, meaning tourism creates economic opportunities while placing pressure on trails, water, waste management and accommodation.
Responsible trekking therefore needs to be practical rather than decorative.
During the trek, you should:
The Nepal Tourism Board provides broader information about the Annapurna region and its environmental and geographical diversity.
Nepal Tourism Board: Annapurna Region
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek costs USD 1,090 per person on the current Nepal Himalayas Trekking package. The listed itinerary is 13 days and is offered as a moderate/adventure trek, with group-joining departures available. The website currently shows the price reduced from USD 1,190 to USD 1,090 per person.
The price covers more than simply the walking days. Your overall cost depends on the services arranged before and during the trek, including accommodation, transportation, guide and porter support, permits and the logistics required to move between Pokhara, the trailhead and the trekking villages. This is why comparing ABC packages only by their advertised price can sometimes be misleading. A cheaper package may leave out services that you would otherwise have to arrange and pay for separately.
For the final commercial page, I would clearly separate the included services from personal expenses so that a traveller can understand exactly what the USD 1,090 package price represents.
The package can include the following services, according to the final confirmed quotation:
The exact inclusions should be confirmed against the quotation you send to the client, because services such as airport transfers, meals, porter service and Kathmandu/Pokhara hotel nights should not be claimed as included unless they are actually part of the USD 1,090 package
Unless specifically stated in the quotation, travellers should budget separately for:
The cost of Annapurna Base Camp Trek can change when you change the way you travel. A private trek with a dedicated guide and porter will have a different price from a group departure. Similarly, adding extra nights, choosing better hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara, changing the transportation arrangement or adding a helicopter return will increase the overall cost.
For example, someone travelling alone may prefer a private itinerary with greater flexibility, while a couple or small group may find the current group-joining rate more economical. Travellers who want shorter walking days can also add an overnight stop, but the additional accommodation, food and guide arrangements need to be reflected in the final quotation.
For the 13-day package currently published by Nepal Himalayas Trekking, USD 1,090 provides a clear starting price for travellers comparing guided Annapurna Base Camp packages. The important point is to compare what each company actually includes at that price, rather than comparing the headline number alone. Nepal Himalayas Trekking currently lists the ABC package at USD 1,090 per person and identifies group joining as available. For more information check our Annapurna Base Camp Cost Guide.
You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These documents are checked at the designated checkpoints along the trekking route, so they should be arranged before you begin the trek.
The ACAP permit is required because the ABC route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The TIMS card records your trekking details and provides an additional system for monitoring trekkers in the region. Permit fees and TIMS requirements can change, so the current rates should be confirmed before departure.
If you book with Nepal Himalayas Trekking, we handle the required trekking permits and registration as part of the pre-trek arrangements, so you do not need to visit the permit offices yourself.
A guide is highly recommended for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, particularly if you want someone who can handle the practical side of the journey while also helping you understand the places you pass through. The guide does much more than walk at the front of the group. During a normal trekking day, the guide keeps an eye on the route, weather, walking pace and condition of the trekkers, while also coordinating with teahouses for rooms and meals. If the weather changes, a trail section becomes difficult, or someone starts feeling unwell at higher altitude, the guide can help make the appropriate arrangements. A knowledgeable local guide also gives meaning to details that are easy to overlook, such as why a village was built on a particular slope, why the forest changes around certain elevations, what the prayer flags represent, or why the trail descends before climbing again. That local knowledge can turn the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from simply following a marked trail into a better understanding of the landscape and communities around you.
A porter is optional, but many trekkers find the service worthwhile because the ABC route involves considerable climbing and descending, particularly around Chhomrong and the upper Modi Khola valley. Instead of carrying your main luggage throughout the trek, you can keep a lighter daypack with your passport, money, electronics, water, medication, rain protection, warm clothing and other personal necessities while the porter carries your larger trekking bag. This becomes especially helpful as you gain altitude, when even a modest additional load can make a long walking day feel harder. If you use a porter, choose a trekking company that takes porter welfare seriously and provides appropriate loads, accommodation, food and treatment.
For a private Annapurna Base Camp Trek, we normally recommend travelling with both a guide and porter. Solo or experienced trekkers may prefer carrying their own luggage, but a guide remains useful for route support, accommodation coordination, local interpretation and assistance if conditions change. The exact arrangements can be adjusted according to your group size, experience, preferred walking pace and budget.
The most common surprises are rarely dramatic.
Trekkers often underestimate:
These details are not meant to make the trek sound harder than it is. They simply help you arrive prepared.
Your packing should reflect the route rather than simply follow a generic Nepal trekking checklist. At lower elevations, lightweight clothing and rain protection are important. In the forest, good footwear becomes particularly valuable because of mud, wet stones and uneven ground. Above Deurali, warm layers become increasingly important.
For the full trek, we recommend considering:
Do not bury your warm jacket at the bottom of your luggage. You may need it immediately after reaching a higher village or when stepping outside the teahouse after sunset.
The 13-day itinerary gives you Poon Hill, the major forest sections, Chhomrong, the Modi Khola valley, MBC, ABC and Jhinu Danda. It can also be adjusted.
Travellers with limited time can choose a shorter itinerary focused more directly on the sanctuary.
Our 7-day Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek provides a more compact approach through Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo and MBC.
This combination works particularly well for travellers who want both a famous sunrise viewpoint and the complete sanctuary experience.
We also offer an ABC Trek with Poon Hill package, although the itinerary and pace differ from this 13-day version.
A private trek allows your group to maintain its own pace. This is useful when one traveller walks considerably faster or slower than others, or when you want additional flexibility with overnight stops.
Adding an extra night can make the route more comfortable for travellers who prefer shorter walking days.
The Mardi Himal Trek has a different character from ABC. It provides a more open high-ridge experience and strong views towards Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.
Combining the two requires enough time and should be planned as two distinct trekking experiences rather than simply adding one destination after another.
A helicopter return can reduce the amount of descending on foot, subject to weather, availability, flight regulations and additional cost. Make a inquiry for more info.
The two treks are often compared because both lead into famous Himalayan mountain regions, but the actual experiences differ considerably.
| Feature | Annapurna Base Camp | Everest Base Camp |
|---|---|---|
| Highest Main Destination | 4,130 m | 5,364 m |
| Iconic Viewpoint | Poon Hill / ABC | Kala Patthar |
| Main Region | Annapurna | Khumbu |
| Major Cultural Communities | Gurung and Magar | Sherpa |
| Forest Experience | Extensive lower and middle forests | Forests in lower Khumbu, then alpine terrain |
| Main Mountain Environment | Annapurna Sanctuary | Khumbu Valley |
| Flight Required for Classic Route | No | Usually Lukla flight for classic itinerary |
| Typical Altitude Challenge | Moderate | Greater |
| Major Attraction | Close approach to Annapurna Sanctuary | Everest and Khumbu |
| Trail Character | Stone steps, forests and sanctuary | Long high-altitude valley route |
The Everest Base Camp Trek reaches considerably higher elevations and provides a different cultural landscape centred on the Sherpa communities of the Khumbu.
Choose ABC if you want a shorter high-mountain journey with substantial forest, village and river-valley walking before entering a dramatic mountain sanctuary.
Choose Everest if reaching the Khumbu and standing at the base of the world's highest mountain is the central goal of your trip.
The Annapurna region is unusually diverse. The Nepal Tourism Board describes it as one of Nepal's most varied trekking destinations, with routes ranging from short walks to long journeys around the massif. That variety means travellers do not have to choose one route simply because it is famous.
ABC is ideal for travellers who want a direct approach into a high Himalayan sanctuary. The route combines forest, villages, rivers and dramatic mountain walls within a relatively compact journey.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a much broader geographical journey. The route crosses Thorong La and moves through different climatic zones, from lower valleys to the high mountain landscape around Manang and then towards Mustang.
The circuit is particularly attractive to travellers who want the sense of travelling around an entire mountain massif rather than walking directly towards one base camp.
Mardi Himal provides a different relationship with the mountains. The trail climbs towards high ridges and viewpoints beneath Machhapuchhre, and the route generally feels quieter than the classic ABC approach.
Our Mardi Himal Trek itinerary can be considered by travellers who have less time but still want a close Himalayan mountain experience.
Poon Hill is particularly suitable for travellers who want mountain sunrise views without committing to the full ABC journey.
Our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a shorter alternative within the Annapurna region.
Kori appeals to travellers looking for a less conventional route and a more remote high-pasture atmosphere.
It is a different experience from ABC and should be selected for its own landscape and trail character rather than simply because it is another Annapurna trek.
North Annapurna Base Camp provides a substantially different perspective on the massif and is better suited to travellers looking for a less conventional and more remote Himalayan journey.
A trek through the Annapurna region passes through communities where tourism has become an important part of the local economy.
Teahouses employ local residents, food is purchased locally where possible, porters transport supplies, guides work with visitors and transportation providers connect villages with larger towns.
This creates opportunities, but tourism also changes the communities through which the trail passes.
As a traveller, you can contribute positively by using locally operated services, paying fairly, avoiding unnecessary waste and respecting the fact that these settlements are homes rather than open-air attractions.
The highest point is not necessarily the hardest part of the journey.
Some trekkers find the stone stairs around Chhomrong more tiring than a longer-looking trail elsewhere. Others discover that descending from ABC puts more strain on their knees than the ascent. Some arrive at the sanctuary expecting the same comfortable temperature they experienced in Pokhara and are surprised by the cold. The trail also changes faster than many first-time trekkers expect.
You can eat breakfast surrounded by forest and later in the same day find yourself walking through an increasingly alpine landscape. The temperature can drop sharply after sunset. Rain can transform an easy forest path into a slippery trail.
Knowing these things before you start does not make the trek less adventurous. It simply means you are prepared for the route you actually have in front of you.
A few practical habits make the route easier.
Choosing a trekking company should involve more than comparing the number of days and the price. A professional trekking operator should understand how the route actually behaves. At Nepal Himalayas Trekking, our work begins before the first walking day. We arrange the trekking documentation, transportation, accommodation and guide and porter services required for the agreed itinerary. We also help travellers prepare for the practical realities of the route, including equipment, altitude, weather and teahouse conditions.
Our experience is particularly useful in the places where a standard itinerary tells you very little.
A guide who knows the ABC trail understands that the Chhomrong stairs can make a short day tiring, that wet forest sections require more careful footing, that the temperature changes dramatically after Deurali and that trekkers should not treat reaching ABC as more important than responding to altitude symptoms.
That knowledge affects how the trek is managed.
We also work with local guides and support staff who understand the communities through which the trail passes. They can explain the landscape, local customs, villages and changing vegetation instead of simply announcing the next overnight stop.
The company has been arranging Himalayan trekking journeys for international travellers, and our trip portfolio covers major routes including Annapurna, Everest, Manaslu, Langtang and Kanchenjunga. Our current trip listings also provide traveller reviews and package information.
For travellers who want a private itinerary, the practical advantage is flexibility. Walking speed, rest periods, accommodation preferences and route extensions can be discussed before departure rather than forced into a fixed group schedule.
Our role is therefore not simply to sell you a route. It is to organise the practical side of the journey and have a local team available when the realities of mountain travel require experience and judgement.
The ABC Trek is generally considered moderate to moderately challenging. It does not require technical climbing, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days. The route includes substantial stone staircases, repeated ascents and descents, uneven terrain and increasing altitude.
The trail becomes physically more demanding around Chhomrong and the upper Modi Khola valley. The final approach to ABC is not technically difficult, but the altitude, cold and longer walking hours can make the effort feel considerably harder than it does in the lower hills.
The itinerary presented here takes 13 days from Kathmandu and back to Kathmandu. It includes Kathmandu preparation, travel to Pokhara, the Poon Hill section, the Annapurna Sanctuary, the return through Jhinu Danda and the final journey back to Kathmandu.
Travellers with limited time can choose a shorter itinerary, while those who prefer a more relaxed pace can add additional nights.
The two treks challenge trekkers in different ways.
Everest Base Camp reaches a considerably higher altitude, making acclimatization a greater concern. ABC, meanwhile, has extensive stone staircases and repeated climbs and descents, particularly through the lower and middle sections of the route.
Your fitness, previous trekking experience, acclimatization and walking pace can significantly influence how difficult either trek feels.
You should be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven trails and stone stairs. Training with regular uphill and downhill walking before the trek can make a noticeable difference.
A private guide can also help you maintain a suitable pace rather than feeling pressured to keep up with a faster group.
A good local guide does much more than lead the way. They coordinate accommodation, communicate with teahouse staff, monitor the group's walking pace, explain local culture and geography, and help respond when weather, health or trail conditions create an unexpected problem.
A knowledgeable guide can also point out details that are easy to miss when travelling independently, from changing vegetation around different elevations to the history and traditions of the villages along the route.
Porter-only arrangements may be possible depending on the current regulations and service arrangement.
A porter primarily carries your luggage, allowing you to walk with a lighter daypack. A guide provides route management, local knowledge, communication, accommodation coordination and trekking support.
For most organised ABC treks, travelling with both gives you the greatest practical support.
Many teahouses provide charging facilities, although charging may cost extra and become more limited at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank is therefore advisable.
Mobile coverage varies considerably along the route. Some villages have reasonable reception, while other sections can have weak or unreliable signals.
Travellers should therefore avoid depending entirely on mobile connectivity for communication.
Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, and hot water can be limited around Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. It is better to expect basic mountain facilities rather than hotel-style services.
Good-grip trekking footwear, waterproof clothing and a rain cover for your backpack are particularly useful during wetter periods. Lower forest sections can also become muddy, and leeches may appear during prolonged wet weather.
Headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue or loss of appetite should not simply be dismissed as normal trekking tiredness. If symptoms become significant or worsen, continuing higher can be dangerous.
Your guide can assess the situation and help arrange rest or descent when necessary. The CDC recommends gradual acclimatization and descending when altitude illness becomes serious or symptoms worsen.
The itinerary reaches Ghorepani, climbs to Poon Hill, continues through Tadapani and Chhomrong, and then follows the Modi Khola valley into the Annapurna Sanctuary before reaching ABC.
This combination gives you both the famous sunrise viewpoint and the experience of walking into the high mountain sanctuary.
Not exactly. Mardi Himal and ABC have different trail characters and landscapes. Combining them requires thoughtful route planning rather than simply placing the two destinations next to each other in an itinerary.
A helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp can be arranged as an optional service, subject to weather, aircraft availability, operational conditions and additional cost.
No. Mountain flights are weather-dependent, so a helicopter should never be treated as a guaranteed departure at a particular time.
Higher sections can become very cold, and snowfall may affect the upper route. Trekkers need suitable winter clothing and should check current trail and weather conditions before departure.
Yes, but monsoon trekking is considerably wetter.
Lower Annapurna receives substantial rainfall, which can make trails muddy and slippery. Clouds may obscure mountain views, streams can carry more water and leeches may appear in forest sections.
Travellers choosing monsoon dates should prepare specifically for wet conditions.
Teahouses generally serve dal bhat, noodles, momos, soups, potatoes, eggs, pasta, Tibetan bread, porridge, tea and other simple meals.
Yes. A few personal snacks such as chocolate, nuts, energy bars or dried fruit can be useful during longer walking days, particularly when you need a quick source of energy between teahouses.
Yes, water is available at teahouses and designated refill points along the route. Use a reliable water purification method where appropriate and follow your guide's advice about where to refill.
Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees for personal expenses and possible additional charges before entering the higher trekking sections. Charging, hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks and other services may involve separate fees.
Charging is available at many teahouses but may cost extra and become limited higher on the route.
A power bank is strongly recommended, especially if you use your phone for photography, navigation or communication.
Families can undertake ABC when the children and adults are comfortable with sustained walking and the itinerary is planned at an appropriate pace.
A private itinerary can be useful because it provides greater flexibility with rest periods, walking speed and overnight stops. Families can also discuss a slower itinerary if the standard schedule feels too demanding.
Age alone does not determine whether someone can complete the trek. Fitness, previous trekking experience, response to altitude and general health are more important factors.
Older travellers should prepare carefully and seek appropriate medical advice when necessary before undertaking a high-altitude trek.
Yes. The itinerary can be adjusted according to your available time, walking pace, group size and preferred trekking style.
Possible variations include:
A customised itinerary can also add rest days or adjust overnight stops when your group prefers shorter walking days.
Booking the trek does not need to be complicated.
First, send us your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and any particular requirements. We then discuss whether the standard 13-day itinerary suits your group or whether a shorter, longer or private version would make more sense. Once the route is agreed, we confirm the accommodation, transportation, guide, porter arrangements and applicable permits. Before you arrive in Nepal, we provide the information you need to prepare for the trek.
The basic booking process is:
The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a stronger sense of remoteness, Tibetan-influenced villages and a high mountain crossing at Larkya La.
It suits travellers who want a longer, more isolated circuit rather than a relatively compact sanctuary trek.
The Langtang Trek provides a Himalayan experience closer to Kathmandu, with forests, Tamang communities and a high valley surrounded by mountains.
It can be a practical alternative for travellers who have less time for transport to western Nepal.
The Everest route remains the obvious choice for travellers whose primary objective is the Khumbu and Everest itself.
Our Everest Base Camp Hike follows the classic Khumbu experience through Sherpa villages and high mountain terrain.
For travellers seeking a much more remote journey, the Kanchenjunga Trekking package takes you into eastern Nepal around the world's third-highest mountain.
Kanchenjunga requires more time and commitment than ABC, but it offers a substantially different experience of Himalayan remoteness.
Upper Mustang provides another contrast. Instead of the heavily forested southern Annapurna approach, the northern Mustang landscape is dry, high and strongly influenced by Tibetan culture.
The important point is that “the Annapurna region” does not describe one single trekking experience. ABC, the Circuit, Mardi Himal, Poon Hill and lesser-known routes appeal to different travellers for different reasons.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins long before you see the first high mountain.
It begins in Kathmandu, continues through the road journey to Pokhara and then moves gradually into the Annapurna foothills. You walk through cultivated hills, Gurung villages and rhododendron forests before reaching the long staircases of Chhomrong. From there, the trail follows the Modi Khola through Bamboo and Dovan, climbs towards Deurali and finally leaves the forest behind around Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
At Annapurna Base Camp, the landscape has changed completely.
There are no terraced fields around you. The forest has disappeared. The mountains dominate the basin, and the cold becomes part of the experience.
Then you walk back down.
The forest returns, the air becomes warmer and the river becomes louder. At Jhinu Danda, you can sit in the natural hot springs beside the river before continuing towards the lower hills and Pokhara.
That gradual change is what makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek worth taking.
It is not simply a walk to 4,130 metres. It is a journey through Nepal's villages, forests, river valleys, changing climates and high Himalayan landscape.
For current itinerary details, you can explore our Annapurna Base Camp Trek package or discuss a private version based on your dates, group size and preferred pace.
Your Annapurna journey begins when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative receives you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel.
There is no reason to fill the first day with activities after an international flight. Kathmandu is busy, noisy and energetic, and most travellers benefit from having time to settle in, recover from the journey and check their trekking equipment. If you arrive early enough, you can walk around the nearby streets or spend some time in Thamel.
Your guide will brief you about the trekking route and the conditions you are likely to encounter. This is also a sensible time to check boots, rain protection, warm clothing, trekking poles and other equipment. Anything you have forgotten is considerably easier to replace in Kathmandu than in a mountain village.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Today combines cultural sightseeing with final preparation for the trek.
Kathmandu provides a useful introduction to Nepal before you enter the Annapurna landscape. Depending on the sightseeing arrangement, you can visit places such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath or the historic squares of the Kathmandu Valley.
The contrast is worth noticing. Within a few days you will move from crowded streets and centuries-old urban settlements into quiet mountain villages where the pace of life is considerably slower.
Use the rest of the day to organise your trekking equipment. Your guide can check the route and explain the expected walking conditions, while you make sure that your daypack contains the things you will need during the day rather than leaving everything buried in your main luggage.
Overnight: Kathmandu
The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes you through Nepal's middle hills. The road follows river valleys and winding mountain sections, with terraced fields, villages and forested slopes appearing along the way.
Pokhara sits beside Phewa Lake and serves as one of the principal gateways to the Annapurna region. The atmosphere is considerably more relaxed than Kathmandu, and on clear days the surrounding mountains can already give you an idea of what lies ahead.
The road journey is part of the geographical transition of the trip. You leave the dense Kathmandu Valley behind and move towards the foothills where the trekking route begins.
After reaching Pokhara, you can rest and prepare for the first walking day.
Overnight: Pokhara
After travelling from Pokhara towards the trekking trailhead, you begin walking through the lower Annapurna foothills.
The exact road access and starting point can vary according to the condition of the road and the final itinerary, but the character of the trail becomes clear quickly. The lower hills are warmer than the upper Annapurna valley, and after rain they can feel surprisingly humid.
Then the stairs begin.
Stone steps are a defining feature of the Annapurna foothills. They connect villages and steep agricultural slopes, but they also make the route more physically demanding than a simple distance calculation suggests. You might cover only a few kilometres yet spend a considerable amount of time climbing.
The landscape gradually changes as you gain elevation. Terraced farmland gives way to forest, while mountain villages appear between the cultivated slopes. Eventually, the trail reaches Ghorepani, where the cooler air becomes noticeable.
Overnight: Ghorepani
You leave Ghorepani before sunrise for Poon Hill, one of the best-known viewpoints in the Annapurna region.
The early start is deliberate. Before sunrise, the viewpoint can be cold and dark, and the climb feels like an ordinary pre-breakfast walk. Then the eastern sky begins to brighten and the mountains gradually emerge.
From Poon Hill, views can include Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre and other peaks depending on visibility. At the top there is a coffee shop you can purchase hot water, tea or coffee and enjoy the stunning view of Annapurna range.
After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, you continue towards Tadapani. This section passes through forest, and the vegetation becomes particularly attractive during spring when rhododendrons are flowering.
The route is not simply a downhill or uphill walk. It repeatedly rises and falls, which is why trekkers often find the day more tiring than the stated distance suggests.
Overnight: Tadapani
The trail continues through forest before reaching the village of Chhomrong.
Chhomrong is an important settlement on the route into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Its Gurung character is visible in the village architecture, terraced farmland and local way of life. The settlement also occupies a striking position above the valley, giving you a clear sense of how much elevation the trail has gained.
The trail around Chhomrong deserves particular attention because of its stairs.
Trekkers sometimes look at the map and assume that a nearby village means an easy walking day. The trail does not work that way here. The terrain repeatedly climbs and descends through stone steps, so the vertical movement can be much greater than the horizontal distance suggests. The descent can be just as tiring as the climb. After several hours of walking, hundreds of steps place considerable pressure on tired knees and feet. Trekking poles can be useful, particularly on wet stone. Chhomrong also marks a change in the nature of the trek. From here, you are heading deeper into the Modi Khola valley and towards the sanctuary.
Overnight: Chhomrong
You descend from Chhomrong and continue towards the deeper part of the valley.
This is where the forest becomes one of the main features of the journey. Bamboo, rhododendron and other vegetation create an enclosed environment around the trail. Waterfalls and streams appear along the route, and the sound of flowing water often becomes more noticeable than the mountains themselves.
The trail around Bamboo and Dovan can be damp. After rainfall, stone steps and exposed roots become slippery, and a careful pace matters more than trying to walk quickly.
The temperature also changes with the forest and elevation. Even when the lower villages feel warm, the shaded forest can be cool.
Overnight: Bamboo
You continue towards Deurali through increasingly rugged terrain.
The vegetation gradually becomes less dense as you gain elevation. The forest still accompanies sections of the route, but the valley begins to open and the mountains become more prominent.
The Modi Khola and its tributaries remain an important part of the landscape. Water has shaped the valley, and the trail repeatedly crosses or follows smaller streams as it climbs.
By Deurali, the change is unmistakable. You have moved beyond the warm lower forest environment and into a landscape where altitude, rock and mountain weather increasingly determine the character of the trail.
Overnight: Deurali
This is the most anticipated walking day of the trek.
From Deurali, the trail continues towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The vegetation becomes sparse, the valley opens and the surrounding mountain walls become increasingly dominant.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp sits at approximately 3,700 metres. Machhapuchhre, meaning Fishtail, rises above the valley with its distinctive twin-peaked profile. MBC is not a climbing base for an ascent of Machhapuchhre. The mountain is regarded as sacred, and climbing it is prohibited.
The change from the lower trail is striking. You have left the dense forests behind, and the landscape is now predominantly rock, snow and high mountain terrain. From MBC, the trail continues into the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The approach to the sanctuary is relatively enclosed because of the shape of the valley. As you move farther inside, however, the surrounding mountains become increasingly visible. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhre form parts of the surrounding skyline. The exact view depends on cloud, season and light.
Eventually, the trail reaches Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres. At this altitude, the cold is noticeable, especially after sunset. Keep your insulated jacket, gloves and warm hat accessible. You do not want to unpack your entire bag simply because the temperature has dropped after dinner.
Overnight: Annapurna Base Camp
The descent from Annapurna Base Camp retraces the trail through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya and Bamboo before continuing toward Sinuwa. The landscape gradually becomes greener and warmer as you lose altitude. After the cold, exposed surroundings of the sanctuary, the return to the forested Modi Khola valley is noticeable.
Overnight: Sinuwa
The trail descends from Sinuwa through the lower valley before reaching Jhinu Danda. The vegetation becomes denser and the air warmer as the altitude drops. Jhinu is particularly known for its natural hot springs beside the river.
The hot springs are reached by descending from the village. After spending time in the warm pools beside the river, you climb back to Jhinu Danda for the night. For many trekkers, that short climb feels worthwhile after several days of long mountain walks, stone steps and cold mornings.
Overnight: Jhinu Danda
The final trekking section takes you through the lower hills towards Nayapul.
The landscape is now warmer and more cultivated. The high alpine environment has disappeared, replaced by villages, terraces, forest and roads. After reaching Nayapul, you travel by road to Pokhara. The change can feel surprisingly rapid. A few days earlier you were walking among snow-covered peaks at 4,130 metres. Now you are back among lower hills and settlements.
Overnight: Pokhara
You return from Pokhara to Kathmandu according to the transport arrangement.
If your international flight is later in the day, you can use the remaining time for final shopping, rest or preparation before travelling to the airport.
Your 13-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek ends here.
The package can include the following services, according to the final confirmed quotation:
Unless specifically stated in the quotation, travellers should budget separately for:
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2026-08-25 | 13 Days | 1090 | Available | Book Now |
The ABC Trek is generally considered moderate to moderately challenging. It does not require technical climbing, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days. The route includes substantial stone staircases, repeated ascents and descents, uneven terrain and increasing altitude.
The trail becomes physically more demanding around Chhomrong and the upper Modi Khola valley. The final approach to ABC is not technically difficult, but the altitude, cold and longer walking hours can make the effort feel considerably harder than it does in the lower hills.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal for clear mountain views, pleasant weather, and blooming rhododendrons.
Nepal Himalayas Trekking does not advocate solo trekking even if ABC is open for solo trekkers. Weather conditions for this trek can be unforeseen and unpredictable. We recommend hiring a guide and porter.
Secure an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card, available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Teahouses along the trail offer basic yet comfortable lodging with communal dining areas. We will stay in the basic teahouses and with shared rooms. The communal dining and limited facilities at the higher altitudes.
Essentials include trekking boots, warm clothing, a good backpack, a sleeping bag, and personal items. Layered clothing that covers your whole body is recommended. Packing the moisture-wicking shirts, insulated layers, and waterproof jackets. Trekking pants, boots, gloves, and a warm hat are a must. A detailed packing list is provided by trekking agencies.
Both options are viable. Independent trekkers should be well-prepared, while joining a group or hiring a guide ensures better support and safety.
Wi-Fi and mobile services are available in some teahouses, but connections may vary. Informing family of potential communication challenges is advisable.
The itinerary presented here takes 13 days from Kathmandu and back to Kathmandu. It includes Kathmandu preparation, travel to Pokhara, the Poon Hill section, the Annapurna Sanctuary, the return through Jhinu Danda and the final journey back to Kathmandu.
Travellers with limited time can choose a shorter itinerary, while those who prefer a more relaxed pace can add additional nights.
The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres (13,549 feet).
Machhapuchhre Base Camp sits at approximately 3,700 metres and is the major overnight stop before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. From here, the trail continues into the Annapurna Sanctuary and climbs gradually towards ABC.
Yes, generally. Poon Hill reaches 3,210 metres and can be completed within a much shorter trekking itinerary, whereas ABC reaches 4,130 metres and involves several additional days of walking through steeper and more varied terrain.
The stone steps around Chhomrong, repeated elevation changes and longer upper-valley walking days make ABC considerably more demanding than a standalone Poon Hill trek.
The two treks challenge trekkers in different ways.
Everest Base Camp reaches a considerably higher altitude, making acclimatization a greater concern. ABC, meanwhile, has extensive stone staircases and repeated climbs and descents, particularly through the lower and middle sections of the route.
Your fitness, previous trekking experience, acclimatization and walking pace can significantly influence how difficult either trek feels.
You should be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven trails and stone stairs. Training with regular uphill and downhill walking before the trek can make a noticeable difference.
A private guide can also help you maintain a suitable pace rather than feeling pressured to keep up with a faster group.
A good local guide does much more than lead the way. They coordinate accommodation, communicate with teahouse staff, monitor the group's walking pace, explain local culture and geography, and help respond when weather, health or trail conditions create an unexpected problem.
A knowledgeable guide can also point out details that are easy to miss when travelling independently, from changing vegetation around different elevations to the history and traditions of the villages along the route.
Porter-only arrangements may be possible depending on the current regulations and service arrangement.
A porter primarily carries your luggage, allowing you to walk with a lighter daypack. A guide provides route management, local knowledge, communication, accommodation coordination and trekking support.
For most organised ABC treks, travelling with both gives you the greatest practical support.
ABC is considerably colder than Pokhara and the lower villages.
The cold becomes particularly noticeable after sunset and before sunrise. Wind and cloud can make conditions feel colder still. Exact temperatures vary according to season and weather, so it is better to prepare with proper warm layers than to rely on one expected temperature.
Electricity is available at many settlements, but reliability and charging arrangements vary.
Many teahouses provide charging facilities, although charging may cost extra and become more limited at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank is therefore advisable.
Wi-Fi is available at some teahouses, but the connection can be slow or unreliable, particularly farther inside the sanctuary.
You should not plan the trek on the assumption that you will have continuous internet access.
Mobile coverage varies considerably along the route. Some villages have reasonable reception, while other sections can have weak or unreliable signals.
Travellers should therefore avoid depending entirely on mobile connectivity for communication.
Many lower and middle-elevation teahouses offer hot showers, usually for an additional charge.
Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, and hot water can be limited around Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. It is better to expect basic mountain facilities rather than hotel-style services.
Rain can make stone steps, roots and forest trails slippery. Visibility may also deteriorate as clouds settle around the hills.
Good-grip trekking footwear, waterproof clothing, leech protective socks and a rain cover for your backpack are particularly useful during wetter periods. Lower forest sections can also become muddy, and leeches may appear during prolonged wet weather.
Tell your guide as soon as you notice symptoms.
Headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue or loss of appetite should not simply be dismissed as normal trekking tiredness. If symptoms become significant or worsen, continuing higher can be dangerous.
Your guide can assess the situation and help arrange rest or descent when necessary. The CDC recommends gradual acclimatization and descending when altitude illness becomes serious or symptoms worsen.
Yes. The 13-day itinerary on this page already combines Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp.
The itinerary reaches Ghorepani, climbs to Poon Hill, continues through Tadapani and Chhomrong, and then follows the Modi Khola valley into the Annapurna Sanctuary before reaching ABC.
This combination gives you both the famous sunrise viewpoint and the experience of walking into the high mountain sanctuary.
Yes, provided you have enough time and choose an appropriate route.
Not exactly. Mardi Himal and ABC have different trail characters and landscapes. Combining them requires thoughtful route planning rather than simply placing the two destinations next to each other in an itinerary.
A helicopter return from Annapurna Base Camp can be arranged as an optional service, subject to weather, aircraft availability, operational conditions and additional cost.
No. Mountain flights are weather-dependent, so a helicopter should never be treated as a guaranteed departure at a particular time.
Yes. The standard ABC route uses teahouse accommodation, so camping is generally unnecessary for the classic itinerary.
Accommodation is generally simple, with basic rooms and shared facilities in many locations. Facilities become more limited as you approach the higher elevations.
Yes, but winter requires additional preparation.
Higher sections can become very cold, and snowfall may affect the upper route. Trekkers need suitable winter clothing and should check current trail and weather conditions before departure.
Yes, but monsoon trekking is considerably wetter.
Lower Annapurna receives substantial rainfall, which can make trails muddy and slippery. Clouds may obscure mountain views, streams can carry more water and leeches may appear in forest sections.
Travellers choosing monsoon dates should prepare specifically for wet conditions.
Teahouses generally serve dal bhat, noodles, momos, soups, potatoes, eggs, pasta, Tibetan bread, porridge, tea and other simple meals.
Yes. Menus normally become simpler as you climb because transporting supplies farther into the sanctuary is more difficult.
Dal bhat is particularly popular among trekkers because it provides a filling meal and is often available with additional portions.
You do not normally need to carry all your meals because teahouses provide food throughout the route.
Yes. A few personal snacks such as chocolate, nuts, energy bars or dried fruit can be useful during longer walking days, particularly when you need a quick source of energy between teahouses.
The amount you need depends on the day's walking distance, weather and available refill points.
Yes, water is available at teahouses and designated refill points along the route. Use a reliable water purification method where appropriate and follow your guide's advice about where to refill.
You should not plan your trek around ATM availability.
Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees for personal expenses and possible additional charges before entering the higher trekking sections. Charging, hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks and other services may involve separate fees.
Charging is available at many teahouses but may cost extra and become limited higher on the route.
A power bank is strongly recommended, especially if you use your phone for photography, navigation or communication.
Families can undertake ABC when the children and adults are comfortable with sustained walking and the itinerary is planned at an appropriate pace.
A private itinerary can be useful because it provides greater flexibility with rest periods, walking speed and overnight stops. Families can also discuss a slower itinerary if the standard schedule feels too demanding.
Age alone does not determine whether someone can complete the trek. Fitness, previous trekking experience, response to altitude and general health are more important factors.
Older travellers should prepare carefully and seek appropriate medical advice when necessary before undertaking a high-altitude trek.
Yes. The itinerary can be adjusted according to your available time, walking pace, group size and preferred trekking style.
Possible variations include:
A customised itinerary can also add rest days or adjust overnight stops when your group prefers shorter walking days.
For those with limited time, a 7-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp is possible but challenging. This condensed itinerary requires a high level of fitness and a quicker pace.
It typically excludes some of the acclimatization days and longer stops along the trail. This option is suitable for experienced trekkers who want to experience the highlights of the trek in a shorter time frame.
Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be extended with a day of sightseeing in and around Kathmandu before the trek or after you return from the mountains. If you have extra time in Nepal, we can arrange a private day trip that combines Kathmandu’s heritage sites with the hilltop views of Nagarkot or Chandragiri.
A one-day Kathmandu sightseeing tour is a good way to begin or finish your trekking holiday. The day can be tailored around your interests and may include Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, followed by time in the hills surrounding the valley.
For travellers interested in Himalayan views, Nagarkot offers a quieter setting above Kathmandu Valley. On a clear morning or late afternoon, the ridge provides wide views across the Himalayan range, while the surrounding villages, fields and forest give a different impression of Nepal from the busy streets of Kathmandu.
Another option is Chandragiri Hills, reached by cable car from the southern edge of Kathmandu Valley. From the hilltop, you can look across the valley towards the Himalayan range on clear days. The area also has a forested setting and the Bhaleshwar Mahadev Temple, making it suitable for travellers who want a short mountain escape without committing to another trek.
You can add:
Tell us how many extra days you have, and we can adjust the programme around your Annapurna Base Camp Trek while keeping the main trekking itinerary unchanged.
Mery
23rd Sep, 2022
We are two girl from Thailand. But currently we are living in Australia. We have quite short days in Nepal for Annapurna base camp trek. We have just 9 days in Nepal. When we inquiry with Nepal Himalayas Trekking about Annapurna base camp trek then with in a day Mr. Prakash replied with us along his cost. According to our duration he offering 7 Days Annapurna base camp trek itinerary with out Poon hill trek. It make sence and we confirmed this Annapurna base camp trek with Nepal Himalayas Trekking. In the end of August we started our trek. There is quite raining during the trek but we have lots of fun with our guide and Porter. We are satisfied with them.
Thank you very much for everything. Have a good day.
Mery
Sungmin
27th Nov, 2022
My trip was from November 27th to December 4th and the weather was perfect. The grandstands were not crowded at all. It was cold in ABC, but it was doable. It was one of the most strenuous hikes with endless stairs. But you will have as many breaks as you like in the tea rooms and/or lodges.Day 1 (Banthanti – Ghoreapani) ascent: 919m / descent: 434m Day 2 (Ghoreapani – Poonhill) ascent: 319m / descent: 301m Day 2 (Poonhill – Chuile) ascent: 631m / descent: 1205m Day 3 (Chuile – Sinuwa) Ascent: 739 m / Descent: 858 m Day 4 (Sinuwa - Deurali) Ascent: 1554 m / Descent: 470 m Day 5 (Deurali - ABC) Ascent: 924 m / Descent: 30 m Day 6 (ABC ) - Sinuwa) Ascent: 378m / Descent: 2374m Day 7 (Sinuwa - Jhinu Danda) Ascent: 432m / Descent: 807m.
I had a wonderful time during Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September. There been raining for a couple of days but I have seen an incredible view from Poon Hill. Mr. Prakash from Nepal Himalayas Trekking organized my 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek In September. My trip was fantastic. My Guide Mr. Aadhitiya and Porter Mr. Nakul Khadka are very helpful and lovely. I have a chance to learn so many Nepali languages.
Thank you very much Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company & Prakash Lamsal for providing such a fabulous Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September.
Thanks
Pascalline
Pascaline
6th Sep, 2023
We are from Japan. This is our first time in Nepal. We did Annapurna Base Camp Camp Trek in Autumn with Nepal Himalayas Trekking. This Tour Company offers an affordable cost of US$ 990. Thank you very much Prakash for this trip and for your well organising. I and my friend enjoyed a lot.
During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn, we explore the beautiful city of Nepal is called Pokhara and see the unique Gurung culture in Ghorepani and Chhumrung Village. There are great scenery of white snow in the Nepal Himalayas including Mount Annapurna. For sure we will visit again in Nepal in 2024 for Everest Base Camp Trek.
Thanks a lot, Mr. Prakash.
Nagai from Japan
Nagai
9th Sep, 2023
Kato Soma
6th Sep, 2023
Wow! Probably Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company is the best trekking agency in Nepal. I and my friend just finished 10 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek with the team of Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company. We are very satisfied with this Tour Company. The owner Prakash Lamsal welcomed us at Kathmandu Airport and provided a very helpful Guide and Porter for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal. We are from Japan. For sure we will recommend this Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company for any kind of trek in Nepal. And by myself will come to Nepal Again in 2024 for Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Thank you very much & Cheers
Kato Soma
Sergio
28th Dec, 2023
The whole trek was amazing and I had a lot of fun during the trek to Annapurna Trek Base camp. The Nepal Himalayas Trekking company did great work, especially the guide he was like a friend to me, showing me all the beautiful places. It was a lot of cold sometimes but I managed to pass through the cold nights. The food was delicious. The little tea houses was so nice. I have to thank you to the Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company for the great work and honesty.
Thanks and see you next time.
Sergio
We are 3 People from Italy. We have booked the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Nepal Himalayas Trekking. Mr. Prakash, the owner of Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company organised our 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp trek in January. During our trek, there are cold but the weather was fantastic. We had a wonderful time in the Annapurna Region.
We are satisfied and more than happy with Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company in Nepal. You are perfect recommended and trustworthy trekking agency in Nepal. For Sure we will tell to our friends about your hospitality. Have a wonderful time.
Thanks
Amani
Miss Amani Gena
2nd Jan, 2024
Me and my friend reached Annapurna Base Camp Trek on 10th October, which day is my 23rd Birthday. We have booked our Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Nepal Himalayas Trekking in Nepal. Thank you very much Prakash for such an incredible Annapurna Base Camp Trek in October. Our Guide Bharat and Porter Bhimsen are very helpful and kind.
Specially, for me the Annapurna Base Camp trek was really great, where I am able to celebrate my 23rd birthday at the elevation of 4200 M. During our trek, we are able explore in the beautiful village of the Annapurna Region. In the street of Thamel, Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company is the highly recommend trekking ageny in Nepal.
Thank you very much for your great Services.
With Best Regards
Marek and Federico.
Marek
3rd Oct, 2023
I am a Solo traveler from the USA. I Booked my Annapurna Base Camp Trek with the Nepal Himalayas Trekking in 2024. We got an affordable cost and helpful trekking guide for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal in 2024. It was great memory with Nepal Himalayas Trekking in 2024. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Pokhara city.
Pokhara is the beautiful city of Nepal. Thank you very much Nepal Himalayas Trekking team for your great hospitality for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal in 2024
Elizabeth
2nd Mar, 2024
We are 29 people from France (Reunion). All 29 people successfully reached to the Annapurna Base Camp. Thank you very much Mr. Prakash for your great hospitality. During our Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the weather was not very good in May. But other everything was fantastic. This time Mr. Prakash doing this trek with us as a Trekking Guide.
There are lovely mountain people, delicious meals, a unique traditional culture, and many other things. All our porters are very innocent, lovely and helpful. They are always ready to help us and want to being as a Mountain Tiger. We proudly say our Annapurna Base Camp Trek in May 2024 was incredible with Nepal Himalayas Trekking.
Once again thank you very much for your great hospitality and wishing all the best for your entire team.
Chitang
4th May, 2024
Wonderful trek with Aditya, a great guide, funny, kind, attentive and always there to help if needed. He did everything to make us as comfortable as possible, it was perfect. With him you feel safe, he will make you have a great trek. The landscapes of the trek are magnificent from start to finish. It was our first trek and we are not disappointed at all. I highly recommend this agency.
Thomas
4th Oct, 2024
We just finished our 9 days trek to Annapurna base camp and we are verry happy of this exp??rience. It was very challenging but our guide Aditya took really good care of us, he was so funny and help all the way. We had good accomodations, saw many incredible landscapes, meet many people on the way and the view on ABC is amazing. The journey was very well organised, for a first trek it was the best! Thank you!
Emma
4th Oct, 2024
Jimmy
1st May, 2025
My Annapurna Base Camp trek including Poon Hill was beyond spectacular, and it's all thanks to Mr. Prakash Lamsal and the incredible team at Nepal Himalayas Trekking. The early morning hike to Poon Hill gifted us a surreal sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges—absolutely magical. The journey from the lush rhododendron forests to the icy amphitheater of ABC felt like walking through a dreamscape. The guides were knowledgeable, funny, and deeply respectful of nature and culture. This wasn't just a trek—it was a personal transformation
Thanks
Jimmy
Miss Lauanna & Mr. Eelco – Netherlands, May 2025
1st May, 2025
We are still reminiscing about the magical days trekking through the Annapurna region! From the warm hospitality in the villages to the snow-capped serenity at base camp, every step was perfectly orchestrated by Mr. Prakash Lamsal and Nepal Himalayas Trekking. Prakash ensured we were safe, well-acclimatized, and immersed in the culture. The tea houses were cozy, the guides became friends, and the views—just WOW. If you're looking for an intimate and soul-refreshing Himalayan experience, this is the team to trust.
Mr. Eelco
2nd May, 2025
Even though I began this trek alone, I never felt like a solo traveler, thanks to the caring, professional team led by Mr. Prakash Lamsal. The combined route of Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill gave me a perfect balance—breathtaking panoramic sunrises and the dramatic Himalayan basin at ABC. Every logistical detail was handled smoothly, and I always felt supported. Prakash was not just an organizer, but a friend and guide through the mountains. Highly recommend this journey to anyone craving both adventure and peace.
Miss Lars – Netherlands, May 2025
3rd May, 2025
As a female traveler, safety and guidance were key, and Mr. Prakash Lamsal delivered far beyond expectations. My trek combining Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal was a mix of raw nature and pristine solitude. Mardi Himal felt untouched and wild, while ABC was simply majestic. The team ensured I had comfortable stays, great food, and a personalized experience at every step. The sunrise from the Mardi ridge was something I will never forget. This trek wasn't just a trip—it was empowerment in motion. Thank you, Prakash, for making it extraordinary.
