Welcome to Kathmandu! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Sky Treks and Pilgrimages who will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. After checking in, take some time to relax and adjust to the new environment. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner at a local restaurant while discussing the exciting journey ahead with your fellow trekkers.
Today, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Kathmandu. Start your day by visiting some of the city’s most iconic sites, including the ancient Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with intricate architecture and vibrant street life. Continue to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) for panoramic views of the city, and then visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. In the evening, prepare for your trek as you finalize gear checks and meet your trekking crew.
After an early breakfast, you will undertake on a scenic drive to Pokhara, known for its stunning natural beauty and serene lakes. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, offering glimpses of rural life in Nepal as you pass through charming villages and terraced fields. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful stroll along Phewa Lake and perhaps catch a beautiful sunset over the Annapurna range.
Today, you’ll start your trek! After breakfast, drive to Nayapul, the starting point of your trek, which takes about an hour. From Nayapul, the trail leads you through lush forests and picturesque villages. After approximately 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Ghandruk, a charming Gurung village known for its cultural heritage. Enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna range and settle into your lodge, where you can relax and savor a traditional meal.
After breakfast, you’ll leave Ghandruk and continue your trek towards Chomrong. The trail descends steeply before ascending through terraced fields and forests. After about 5-6 hours of walking, you will arrive in Chomrong, a beautiful village that offers spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Take some time to explore the village, visit local shops, and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at your lodge.
Today’s trek will take you from Chomrong to Dovan. The trail begins with a steep descent before crossing a suspension bridge over the Chhomrong Khola. You will then ascend through a beautiful bamboo forest, which leads you to Dovan. Expect to hike for approximately 5-6 hours. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, and enjoy the serene surroundings as you prepare for the next leg of your journey.
After breakfast, continue your trek to Deurali. The trail gradually ascends through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After about 4-5 hours of trekking, you will arrive in Deurali, where you can take in the stunning views of the Annapurna range. Settle into your lodge for the night and enjoy a warm meal as you prepare for the ascent to Annapurna Base Camp.
Today is a highlight of your trek as you make your way to Annapurna Base Camp! After an early breakfast, you will trek through the spectacular Machapuchare Base Camp and continue on a scenic trail that leads you to ABC. The views become more breathtaking with every step as you approach the base camp, surrounded by towering peaks. After about 6-7 hours of trekking, you will reach Annapurna Base Camp. Take some time to absorb the majestic beauty surrounding you and capture incredible photographs before settling into your lodge for the night.
After an unforgettable night at Annapurna Base Camp, you will begin your descent. Today’s trek will take you back to Bamboo, following the same trail you took earlier. The descent allows you to appreciate the beauty of the landscape from a different perspective. Expect to hike for approximately 6-7 hours. Upon arriving in Bamboo, check into your lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening, reminiscing about the experiences of the past few days.
Today, you will trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda. The trail descends through lush forests and terraced fields, offering glimpses of the stunning scenery around you. After about 5-6 hours of trekking, you will reach Jhinu Danda, famous for its natural hot springs. Take some time to relax in the hot springs and soothe your tired muscles. Enjoy a warm dinner at your lodge, reflecting on the incredible trek you’ve just completed.
After breakfast, you will trek to Nayapul, which takes about 5 hours. The trail is relatively easy as you follow the river, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Upon reaching Nayapul, you will drive back to Pokhara. After checking into your hotel, you can relax and perhaps explore more of the beautiful lakeside area. Enjoy a celebratory dinner in Pokhara as you reflect on your incredible journey to Annapurna Base Camp.
After breakfast, Scenic drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, giving you one last chance to soak in the beautiful landscapes of Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You can visit local markets for souvenirs or relax at a café.
As your memorable Annapurna Base Camp trek comes to an end, enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. A representative from Sky Treks and Pilgrimages will assist you with your transfer to the airport for your departure. We hope you take home unforgettable memories of the majestic Himalayas and look forward to your next adventure with us! Safe travels!
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, leading adventurers to the base camp of Annapurna, one of the world's highest peaks. This trek typically takes about 10 to 14 days and offers stunning views of the Annapurna massif, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural experience with local Gurung and Magar communities.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is generally considered moderate in difficulty. While it involves significant altitude gains, with the base camp sitting at around 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), the well-defined trails and the availability of teahouses make it accessible for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Proper acclimatization is important to avoid altitude sickness.
The best times to undertake the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures, making for optimal trekking conditions. The monsoon season (June to August) is generally not recommended due to heavy rains, while winter (December to February) can bring cold temperatures and snow.
While it’s possible to trek to Annapurna Base Camp independently, hiring a guide or porter is highly recommended. A guide can enhance your experience with local insights and ensure your safety, while a porter can carry your heavier gear, allowing you to focus on the trek itself and enjoy the stunning scenery.
To trek to Annapurna Base Camp, you will need two main permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These permits can be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu and are essential for ensuring your trek is officially registered and safe.
Packing for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek requires careful consideration of clothing and gear. Essentials include layered clothing suitable for varying temperatures, a quality sleeping bag, trekking boots, a waterproof jacket, and warm accessories like gloves and hats. Additionally, a first-aid kit, trekking poles, a water purification system, and high-energy snacks are important for the journey.
Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek primarily consists of teahouses, which provide basic lodging and meals. While the facilities can vary, most teahouses offer comfortable beds and communal dining areas. Some may provide hot showers for an additional fee. The welcoming atmosphere allows trekkers to socialize and connect with fellow adventurers.
Teahouses along the Annapurna route offer a variety of food options, including traditional Nepali dishes and Western meals. Common meals include dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), noodle soups, and various vegetable dishes. Vegetarian options are widely available, though it’s advisable to be cautious with meat in higher-altitude areas for safety reasons.
Preparing for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek involves both physical training and mental preparation. Engaging in aerobic exercises like hiking, running, or cycling will help build endurance. It’s also beneficial to practice trekking with a weighted backpack to simulate conditions on the trail. Familiarizing yourself with altitude sickness symptoms and how to manage them is crucial for a successful trek.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is generally safe, but it does come with risks associated with high altitudes. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and listening to your body are key to minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Following your guide's advice and being aware of changing weather conditions will also enhance your safety throughout the trek.
