Annapurna base camp trek is a wonderful and joyful walk through diverse landscape and culture in Nepal. You can travel through the rich mountain panoramas, terraced fields, a wide variety of flora and fauna observing the Gurung communities and their unique culture. Mt. Annapurna (8091m) of Nepal is the 10th highest mountain in the world and the journey to its base camp (at 4130m/13549ft height) is one of the most exciting walks in Nepal. Moreover, you can make your destination via Mt. Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), a famous peak for its beauty.
The fascinating culture and stunning scenery are noticeable right away at the start of the trek in Pokhara, but it only gets better from there. A number of routes are available for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, including one through the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. However, we will take a more direct approach via Jhinu due to time constraints. Just two days of trekking via Dobhan and Deurali lead us up to the Machhapuchhare Base Camp (MBC) at around 4,000 meters altitude.
Our destination, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) lies just a few hours further at 4,130m. You’ll surely have a unique experience here as despite being the base camp of the tenth highest peak in the world (Annapurna I – 8,091m), there are a number of lodges and hotels available. We’ll spend a whole night at the base camp, basking in the luxury of a lodge before beginning our return trek. As the further journey will mostly be descent, it should offer you an even better chance to explore the nature, scenery as well as culture of the Annapurna region. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek finally ends as you arrive in Pokhara and make the return journey back to Kathmandu.
Now, the well-groomed itinerary of the Annapurna Base Camp trekking package is joyful, enthusiastic and popular choice for all from a single traveler to hikers groups who wish to taste Nepal’s natural beauty, diverse culture and the acquitted support from brave Gorkhas and Sherpas.
Generally, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an eleven-day itinerary though it can be extended and shortened as your need, budget, time and so on. Mountain Layers Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. is proud to organize Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate difficulty trek that is an excellent option as base camp trekking for beginners. Prior trekking experience is always helpful but it is not an absolute necessity as most physically fit and healthy people can perform this trek without any issues. The highest point of the trek is reached at the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). The trekking hours average at around 5-6 hours trekking per day. Although we climb up to fairly high altitudes, altitude sickness is generally not an issue on this trek as we only stay at high elevation for 1-2 days max. Nonetheless, proper acclimatization is always welcome as part of the trekking plan and itinerary.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is best performed during the Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November) seasons. These are the perfect periods to enjoy the amazing mixture of scenery, culture and adventure available on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The clear skies with stunning mountain vistas as well as the pleasant weather and blooming nature will certainly leave a good impression on you.
Winter season is also a good choice for Annapurna Base Camp Trek, especially if you are looking to enjoy the crisp views of snowcapped peaks. Luckily, there is no need to cross any high passes for this trek but excessive snowfall can still be an issue sometimes. Monsoon trekking is possible, but we don’t generally recommend it due to the unpredictable weather and rainfall.
After you land at the Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will be picked by our representative who will welcome you to Nepal and escort you to your hotel via private transport. Later in the evening, you can visit our office or relax at your hotel as you prefer.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins today with the drive or flight to Pokhara. The flight is the luxury option as you get to enjoy the bird’s eye views of Nepal and the Himalayas from the comfort of the airplane. Moreover, you will arrive at Pokhara in just half an hour and have the rest of the day in leisure. However, budget constraints can be an issue. So our standard option is the drive via Prithvi Highway on a suitable vehicle; tourist bus or jeep depending on group size. This is also the better way to get firsthand experience of the Nepali terrain and landscape before you begin the actual trekking. We will explore the lakeside and chill in the evening.
After breakfast, we will have a 1-2 hour long drive to the trailhead at Nayapul. Here, the trail diverges to multiple routes, Ghorepani, Jhinu and more. As we are taking the direct route, our destination will be jhinu Danda. The ‘warm up’ trek involves making a few ascents and descents through the forested trails and crossing a suspension bridge before we finally reach Jhinu Danda. The natural hot springs here are always a refreshing experience for travelers and locals alike.
As we are slowly gaining altitude, the landscape will begin to open up and offer some pleasing views of mountain vistas today. We will first head to Chhomrong where we can already witness the amazing view of Annapurna South (7219m) and Machhapuchhare (6993m). From here, we will have to make an uphill ascent and climb through the stone staircase. Through the day, we will cross the Chhomrong River, pass Sinuwa, trek through the Modi Khola Valley and pass Bamboo to finally reach Dobhan.
The trek today will likely be the toughest but also the most important day of the trek. The trail passes leads you from Dobhan up to Hinku, and eventually to the village of Deurali. We will have a brief stop at Deurali for lunch where you can take some time to interact with the locals and also take a detailed look at the scenery around you. After a while, the journey resumes past Bagar and we will eventually reach over 4,000 meters at the Machhapuchhare Base Camp (MBC). A couple more hours of trekking, or rather ascending, from MBC finally leads us to our destination, the Annapurna Base Camp. Situated at 4,130m, the highest point of our trek, the Annapurna Base Camp offers stunning close up views of a panorama of peaks from Machhapuchhare and Gangapurna to Hiunchuli and Annapurna. We will take our time enjoying the magnificence of our surrounding and stay overnight at the lodge.
After an early breakfast, we will head out for the longest day of trekking. Take a breath of relief though as most of the trekking today is descending, so you will likely have an easier time compared to the previous days.
With the hard part of our trek behind us, today’s journey is mostly an easy albeit long descent. Take your time to enjoy the stunning scenery on the trail today. Our overnight stay will be at a lodge in Tolka.
Today will be the last day of trekking. Public transportation is available at various points of the trail. After we reach Phedi, we will also catch a bus for a half hour ride to Pokhara. In Pokhara, you will first check in to the hotel and then you can spend the rest of the day as you please. Most people prefer to simply relax at the hotel and unwind from the exhaustion of the trek with a warm shower and tasty meal. However, strolling around the lakeside and exploring a bit of Pokhara’s magic is also a good idea.
Similar to before, we can get to Kathmandu either by road or flight. The classic option is to take a bus or a private vehicle and drive along the Prithivi highway. This route involves passing by Damauli, Muglin and Kurintar and arriving at Kathmandu in 5-6 hours. If you wish to go for a flight instead, then you’ll get to enjoy the magnificent aerial views of the Annapurna region. You’ll also arrive at Kathmandu in just half an hour, which means a full day to spend in the capital as you like. In the evening, we will have traditional Nepali cuisine as farewell dinner at a restaurant.
We hope your time with Mountain Layers Treks has been a good one. After breakfast, you can visit Thamel for some souvenir shopping or check out from the hotel if you have a flight scheduled. Our representative will assist you with reaching the airport a few hours before flight time. We wish you a safe flight home, farewell!
The best time is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is favorable with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
The trek is considered moderate, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. However, it involves some steep ascents and descents, so prior trekking experience is beneficial.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is situated at an altitude of 4,130 meters. The trek itinerary includes gradual ascents and rest days to aid acclimatization and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Yes, trekkers need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card before starting the trek. These permits are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Essential items include trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a first aid kit, and a sleeping bag. It's important to pack light and carry only necessary items.
ATM facilities are limited along the trekking route, so it's advisable to carry enough cash (Nepalese Rupees) for the duration of the trek. Major towns like Pokhara have ATMs where you can withdraw cash before the trek.
It's recommended to drink purified or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses. Bottled water is available for purchase at teahouses along the route, but it contributes to plastic waste. Using water purification tablets or a filter is a more eco-friendly option.
Accommodation along the trek route consists of teahouses or lodges offering basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and meals. It's advisable to book accommodation in advance during peak trekking seasons.
Travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation, medical expenses, trip cancellation, and loss of personal belongings is highly recommended for the trek to ensure your safety and well-being.
Tipping is customary in Nepal, and it's appreciated to tip guides and porters as a gesture of gratitude for their services. The amount can vary but is typically around 10% of the total trek cost.
01. Altitude Sickness Awareness: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions to prevent it. Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and listen to your body's signals. Inform your guide immediately if you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness.
02. Guide and Porter Services: Consider hiring a local guide and porter for the trek. Experienced guides provide valuable insights into the trek route, local culture, and safety measures. Porters can help carry your belongings, making the trek more comfortable.
03. Responsible Trekking Practices: Practice Leave No Trace principles by minimizing your environmental impact. Dispose of waste responsibly, carry reusable water bottles, and support eco-friendly initiatives along the trek route.
04. Weather and Trail Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including rain, snow, and cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes. Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before starting the trek and carry appropriate gear.
05. Emergency Contacts: Carry a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, trekking agencies, and medical facilities. Ensure you have access to communication devices such as a mobile phone or satellite phone in case of emergencies.
06. Physical Preparation: Engage in regular physical exercise and cardio training to improve your stamina and endurance before the trek. Strengthening exercises targeting leg muscles and core stability can also help prepare your body for the demands of trekking at high altitudes.
07. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions during the trek. Dress modestly, ask permission before taking photographs of people, and participate respectfully in religious ceremonies or rituals encountered along the trek route.
08. Flexible Itinerary: Keep your itinerary flexible to accommodate changes in weather, trail conditions, or personal preferences. Be open to adjusting your trekking schedule as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the Annapurna region.
By considering these additional factors, you can enhance your preparation and enjoyment of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, making the most of this unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
Elisabeth and François | France | On 6th Mar, 2024
5 - Excellent
In English:
Buwan Maskey is a wonderful and experienced guide, very reliable and safe both in the mountains as in an urban environment. He likes his country, his mountains which he knows very well; he likes meeting and talking with every body, Nepalese or not. He is always on time, very attentive, thoughtful and careful with us. He has a sharp eye to see animals hiding in nature.He will do all he can for you to have the best trek ever.In short, an extremely nice and good guide.
In French
Buwan est un guide merveilleux et expérimenté, très sûr en montagne comme en ville. Il aime son pays et ses montagnes qu’il connaît très bien; il aime rencontrer et parler avec tout le monde, népalais ou non. Il est toujours à l’heure, fiable , très attentif et attentionné avec tout le monde.Il a l’œil pour repérer tous les animaux grands ou petits rencontrés dans la nature.Il fait tout ce qui est en ses pouvoirs pour que le trek se passe toujours au mieux. Bref, un guide très compétent et tellement agréable.
François and Elisabeth | France | On 6th Mar, 2024
5 - Excellent
In English
Buwan Maskey is very accomodating : he listens to all we want and adapts the trek : the time to wake up, the walking rhythm, the different ways paths…He favors meeting with people. He always smiles and is in a good mood, at 4 a.m in the cold morning as well as late in the evening!
In French
Buwan est très accommodant ; il s’adapte remarquablement aux désirs deses clients sur les itinéraires, les heures de lever, le rythme…Il favorise les rencontres. Il a un sourire et une bonne humeur permanents, à 4h dans les froids matins en montagne comme tard dans la soirée !
Claude-Alain Pillet and Mounique | Swaziland | On 6th Mar, 2024
5 - Excellent
We had a 15 days trip to Nepal in April 2017, including a trek to the Annapurna’s Base Camp (ABC 4130m). Bhuwan Maskey was our guide and he planed the whole trip, from Kathmandu’s airport where he was waiting for us, back to the airport. We also had a special request: on our way back to Kathmandu we wanted to spend a day in Jampaling tibetan settlement near Pokhara. Thanks to his deep knowledge of the field, Bhuwan Maskey’s planning was perfect. He was always ready to answer our questions about the country and the peoples. We enjoyed every minute of our stay in Nepal. Shall we once realize our dream to visit the Mustang region, we will not hesitate to hire Bhuwan again.
Jean-Jacques Larribal | France | On 6th Mar, 2024
5 - Excellent
In English
“We started a trek in February 2012 with Buwan Maskey as a guide, and he took us safely to the Anapurna base camp with our son, who was barely 13 years old at the time. It was a real delight to share these moments of walking and to exchange on our different cultures! Our 2 porters were also very helpful and serious Buwan Maskey is a wonderful guide and he really knows the treks he frames.
In French
“Nous avons entrepris un treck en février 2012 avec Buwan Masquey comme guide. Il nous a amené en toute sécurité jusqu’au camp de base des Anapurnas, avec notre fils qui était à l’époque âgé de 13 ans à peine. Ce fut un vrai delice de partager ces moments de marche et d’échanger sur nos différentes cultures ! Nos 2 porteurs étaient également très serviables et sérieux. Buwan Masquey est un merveilleux guide et il connaît vraiment les treks qu’il encadre. Je le recommande sincèrement” .
Jean-Jacques Larribal | France | On 6th Mar, 2024
5 - Excellent
We can not come back from Nepal without having deep in our hearts and our memory the eyes of Nepalese children marveled at a little present in the shape of a gray pencil !! So many differences with our countries “haves” wealth often wasted! It’s life some say … personally I went back to France, “grown up” deep in the soul and I do not see the daily life as before! Our great guide teacher Bhuwan Maskey were for us three (my companion and our 13-year-old son) as a family for an ephemeral time … We were able to learn and discuss our different cultures, English, French, Nepali and in a good mood.
Congratulations for the trace in the fresh snow made by Bhuwan Maskey on the return of the Annapurna base camp. I also salute the courage of Bhuwan a guide in his early twenties, who started out in a very difficult job.We tried to relieve as much as possible the weight of the bags, and frankly I advise everyone to take only the bare minimum (at least for difficult parts).We can only recommend Bhuwan Maskey and his agency with a very human, professional and welcoming. We were like kings … Our trekking team could not do enough for us, while respecting our privacy ….When we return to your home in Nepal, we will not hesitate to call your agency. Congratulations to you all and thank you again for this cloud of dreams that still carries me high! Oh yes..I was going to “forget” … The mountains ?? Well … at home in the high Alps we are surrounded by hills .
Leo Larribal | France | On 6th Mar, 2024
5 - Excellent
A super trekking tour to the Annapurna base camp in a setting of magnificent, captivating and impressive mountains. Great encounters in the mountain villages exotic and disconcerting by the simplicity and humble behavior of the inhabitants. A big thank you to our guide Bhuwan Maskey who knew how to be patient, attentive and happy all along the trekking. He iwas very friendly and welcoming. After this trekking in a grandiose setting, a return to Kathmandu for the discovery of historic centers in an atmosphere of poverty and grueling dirt. Very good and excellent guide, a sublime journey very exotic.
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