Trek through rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages and dramatic alpine landscapes to Annapurna Base Camp, one of the most iconic trekking destinations in Nepal.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is another of Nepal’s most iconic trekking adventures, leading deep into the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary and to the foot of Annapurna I (8,091m), the tenth-highest mountain in the world. Combining diverse landscapes, traditional mountain villages, lush forests and breathtaking Himalayan scenery, this classic trek offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Annapurna region.
Beginning in the foothills below Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), the trail passes through traditional Gurung settlements, terraced farmland, bamboo forests and rhododendron woodlands before entering the dramatic glacial amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary. As the trek progresses, the scenery changes dramatically, revealing ever-closer views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and Machhapuchhre.
The highlight of the trek is reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres, where towering Himalayan giants surround you on all sides. Few trekking destinations in the world offer such an impressive mountain setting, with some of the highest peaks on Earth rising directly above the sanctuary.
Perfect for trekkers seeking a rewarding Himalayan experience within a relatively short timeframe, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek combines mountain culture, natural beauty and world-class trekking into one unforgettable journey.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel and trek briefing.
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara (25 mins), drive to Jhinu Danda (2.5-3 hours) and trek to Chhomrong (2,170m), approx. 2 hours.
Day 3: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2,600m), approx. 5-7 hours.
Day 4: Trek from Dovan to Deurali (3,200m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m), approx. 2-3 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and return to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310m), approx. 6-8 hours.
Day 8: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m), approx. 5-6 hours, then drive to Pokhara.
Day 9: Fly (25 mins) or drive (6-7 hours) from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Day 10: Departure from Nepal.
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions, flight schedules or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Trek Briefing and Preparation
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to relax and recover from your journey, you will attend a detailed trek briefing with your guide. This is an opportunity to discuss the itinerary, check equipment and complete any last-minute preparations before heading into the Himalayas.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Jhinu Danda and Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m) | Approx. 2 Hours Trekking (B L D)
This morning, take a scenic flight to Pokhara before continuing by road to Jhinu Danda, the starting point of your trek. The trail climbs steadily through terraced hillsides and traditional Gurung villages, offering excellent views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Your destination is Chhomrong, one of the largest settlements on the Annapurna Base Camp trail. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Modi Khola Valley, the village offers magnificent views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2,600m) | Approx. 5-7 Hours (B L D)
The day begins with a steep descent on stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola before climbing through forests of bamboo, rhododendron and oak. As the trail enters the narrow Modi Khola Valley, waterfalls tumble from the cliffs above while the river rushes below.
Gradually ascending through dense forest, you reach the peaceful settlement of Dovan, surrounded by towering trees and steep mountain slopes.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 4: Trek from Dovan to Deurali (3,200m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
Continuing deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, the trail follows the river upstream through increasingly dramatic scenery. Dense forests gradually give way to more open terrain as the valley narrows and the surrounding peaks draw closer.
Arriving at Deurali, you are surrounded by towering cliffs, avalanche-sculpted slopes and rugged mountain scenery that signals your approach to the high Himalaya.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5: Trek from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m) | Approx. 2-3 Hours (B L D)
Today’s shorter trek allows for gradual acclimatisation as you enter the upper reaches of the Annapurna Sanctuary. The landscape becomes increasingly alpine, with glacial moraine, rocky slopes and spectacular mountain views dominating the scenery.
Upon reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp, enjoy breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Gangapurna. The dramatic mountain panorama makes this one of the most memorable overnight locations of the trek.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Trek from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and Return to Machhapuchhre Base Camp | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today is the highlight of the journey. Setting out early, follow the gradual trail towards Annapurna Base Camp through the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
As the valley opens, Annapurna Base Camp comes into view, surrounded by a magnificent ring of Himalayan peaks. Standing beneath Annapurna I (8,091m) is an unforgettable experience, with Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tent Peak and Machhapuchhre rising dramatically around the sanctuary.
After enjoying time at base camp for photographs and exploration, return to Machhapuchhre Base Camp for the night.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310m) | Approx. 6-8 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the high mountains behind, descend through Deurali and Dovan as the landscape gradually transforms from alpine terrain to lush forest.
The lower altitude brings warmer temperatures and greener surroundings, with bamboo forests once again dominating the valley. Arrive at Bamboo, a peaceful settlement nestled among the trees.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m) and Drive to Pokhara | Approx. 5-6 Hours Trekking (B L)
Continue descending through forests and villages before returning to Chhomrong and eventually reaching Jhinu Danda.
Before leaving the mountains, there is an opportunity to visit the natural hot springs located beside the Modi Khola River, an excellent way to soothe tired muscles after several days of trekking.
Following the trek, transfer by vehicle to Pokhara. The remainder of the day is free to relax beside Phewa Lake or explore the lakeside area.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 9: Fly or Drive to Kathmandu (B)
Today you return to Kathmandu either by a short scenic flight or by road through the hills and river valleys of central Nepal.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions, flight schedules or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- 1 night accommodation in Pokhara: post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
9 Days
Everest Region
Easy/Moderate
