Explore the Annapurna Sanctuary and Conservation Area.
Relish the scenic vista of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Enjoy the Gurung culture and hospitality.
Relax at the hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
Walk through the diverse landscape and culture of the Annapurna region.
Exotic Flora and Fauna.
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins with a tour around the Kathmandu Valley. Here, you will visit some of the world heritage sites in the valley. Next, you will head to Pokhara on either a short flight or a long drive. Both these options provide a great introduction to the beauty and diversity of the geography of Nepal. As the trek begins, you drive to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk. It is a Gurung village which offers an authentic outlook on the culture and lifestyle of the Gurung people. Then, you head north along the Chhomrong River to reach Chhomrong village. You continue the trek across the Modi River and pass Dovan to reach the Himalayas.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Explore the trails decorated by the snowy Annapurna Himalayas on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC Trek) also known as Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. One of the most famous treks in the world, ABC Trek heads through the rich expanse of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The ABC trek also offers glorious views of the tenth-highest mountain in the world- Annapurna I (8091m). Also, the trek allows travellers to relish the culture and lifestyle of the Gurung ethnic group. Finally, ABC Trekking is a beautiful combination of all the natural and cultural attractions in the Annapurna region.
Further, you trek across snowy trails to reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Hereon, the trails ascend and increase in difficulty as well. Along with the views of the Annapurna, Lamjung, and Nilgiri Himalayas, you will trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. From the base camp, you can enjoy the sight of the Annapurna range along with other mountains in the Dhaulagiri ranges as well. After enjoying your fair share of fun and adventure, you begin the return trek. As you deviate from Chhomrong to a newer trail, you will also take a relaxing dip in the natural hot spring in Jhinu Danda to complete the ABC Trek. Next, you head back to Pokhara and return to Kathmandu.
This Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary is the standard itinerary we offer. You can inquire about us and customise the itinerary as per your needs. If this itinerary does not fit you, we also operate ABC Trek via Poon Hill or other Annapurna Region Treks.
At Heaven Nepal Adventure, we always aim to provide the best services and facilities to our clients. Also, we have numerous travel packages across the country.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance, Difficulty and Altitude
Trekking in the Himalayas is definitely not easy. Annapurna Base Camp Trek’s difficulty is moderate and anyone who can walk for 6-7 hours on a day can complete this trek without any difficulties. The trekking trail includes terrains, mountains, hills and stairs and it demands a good level of physical fitness. Previous trekking experiences will definitely be a plus for this trek but are not required. The difficulty of the trek can vary with the season. It is a moderate trek and can be done by travellers with good physical fitness.
The total Annapurna Base Camp Trek distance is around 115 km and you will walk 10-20 km. Generally, you will trek for 7-8 days during the trip. If you want more time to rest and enjoy, you can increase the number of trekking days. Similarly, decrease if you want to complete the trek in less than 13 days. Knowing your limits and wise decisions are required for a safe trek.
There are fewer chances for Altitude Sickness during the ABC Trek. You will reach the highest Annapurna base camp trek altitude at 4,130 m high in Annapurna Base Camp. Most of the trekking trails are below 3000 m/ 10,000 ft. You don’t have to worry about AMS in this Annapurna Sanctuary Trek as the altitude is not demanding.
Best Time for ABC Trek
The months of September to November during autumn are the best season for Annapurna Base Camp Hike. It doesn’t only ensure the most incredible views and scenery of all time but since the area is inhabited, it gives ample opportunities to get the closest interaction with the local culture. Likewise, the Spring season from March to May is another best time for the trek. Also, it’s safe to say that the spring and autumn seasons are the best times for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Day to Day Itinerary
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You may arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport at any time. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by one of our representatives who will welcome you and help you get transferred to your Hotel. There are no planned activities for the day, thus you may check into your Hotel and relax.
You can opt to either fly to Pokhara or drive there. The Himalayan city of Pokhara is one of the most famous cities in Nepal, blessed with stunning natural beauty. It is situated beside Phewa Lake and also presents amazing views of the Annapurna Peaks. The drive to Pokhara follows the Prithivi Highway along the banks of the stunning Trishuli River. The road heads past countless vibrant villages. Likewise, the flight presents good views of the mountain peaks. Upon reaching Pokhara, you will be transferred to the Hotel.
From Pokhara, you will have a short drive to Nayapul, travelling via the road that runs alongside vast hillside terrace farms and pine forests. The drive is pleasant and gives you a good fleeting glimpse of the village life of the Annapurna. You can also enjoy views of the Annapurna Mountain Peaks as well. From Nayapul, you will then trek to Ghandruk- one of the most well-known Gurung villages of the region.
From Ghandruk, the trail meanders through the valley to Chhomrong. Today’s journey is filled with captivating natural beauty. Chhomrong is situated about 9 kilometres away from Ghandruk and is the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. Wonderful views of the Annapurna Mountains present a contrast to the terrain embedded with serene woodlands that is home to many beautiful Himalayan birds like the Monal and the Danphe. The trail is mostly an up-and-downhill journey.
From Chhomrong, you will enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is a protected area that is home to many endangered species of animals and birds. The trail from Chhomrong meanders down the valley towards Chhomrong Khola. Crossing the river via a suspension bridge, you will follow the trail that climbs out the valley, ascending through rhododendron woods and oak forests towards a small settlement called Bamboo. The bridges across the region are often decorated with colourful prayer flags and crossing the bridge over the swiftly flowing rivers is quite a thrill. Further on, the path cuts along steep slippery stone staircases that run through thick bamboo groves towards Dovan.
With a steady ascend, you will make your way over to a mountainside towards the Bagar village. The trail from there leads to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. It is a somewhat strenuous trek as the path runs through steep slopes and vertical ridgelines. Views of the Machhapuchhre Himal, the Himchuli Peak, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, and the Gangapurna Peak among others from the base camp of Machhapuchhre are simply stunning.
The landscape as you trek further from the Machhapuchhre Base Camp is barren of vegetation. Instead, the land begins to be covered with snow from here on out. The trail widens as you reach the opening of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The high glacial basin of the conservation areas surrounded by a ring of mountains presents a beautiful trek. You can also get a sensational view of the near-vertical south face of the Annapurna Peak along the journey. Trekking through an amazing landscape, you will finally reach the Annapurna Base Camp.
Retracing your steps back through the Conservation Area and down the valley, you will trek towards Bamboo, following the trail once again as it passes over small brooks and rivers and ancient trees that shadow the trail overhead. The forests of the Conservation Area are covered in lichen, orchids, and moss, and low-lying mist often covers the terrain, making the journey quite eerie. An entire sanctuary is a sacred place for the ethnic Gurung people. The trek back towards Bamboo is downhill and relatively easy.
From Bamboo, you will follow a gradually descending path towards one of the famous settlements of the region- Jhinu Danda. The small village is located amid high-rising cliffs, and it harbours a natural hot spring that is situated right beside the river. The hot spring is said to have natural healing properties, and you can relax in the hot water to relieve your aching muscles.
From Jhinu, you will follow the same route back towards Nayapul. You will be trekking through beautiful terrace farms and pastures. The grasslands are often laden with yaks and mules. From Nayapul, you will then have a lovely drive back to Pokhara.
You can either have a drive back to Kathmandu or opt for a short flight. Both ways, you can choose your mode of transport and we shall have it arranged accordingly. Upon returning to Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your Hotel.
Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
Heaven Nepal Adventure our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.
Airport pick up and drop service in a private vehicle
Welcome dinner and farewell dinner.
2-Night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
2-Night accommodation standard hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
Accommodation during the trekking in a teahouse/Lodge
All meals during the trek (B, L, D and Tea or Coffee) fruits after dinner
Tourist Stander Bus drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu (option for 30m flight if require)
Gov.certified well trained English speaking trek guide
Cost of the guide and potter(sherpa) their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation
One potter every two members of trekkers group
All government necessary document ACAP permit/TIMS card.
Purified drinking water while on a trek, Down jackets, the sleeping bag must be returned to the company after completion of your trek.
Heaven Nepal Adcventure duffel bag and a company’s t-shirt as a souvenir, trekking route map
First Aid Kit box (carried by your trek guide)
The arrangement of helicopter rescue service (trekker’s travel insurance must cover this expense)
All applicable federal and route local taxes. Adventure certificate (after completion of the trek)
Final departure transfers to the airport.
Cost Excludes
International Airfare/Nepal Visa
Food in Kathmandu and Pokhara besides welcome and farewell dinner.
Personal expenses for your clothing and personal gears
Your personal expenses such as mineral water, soft and alcoholic beverages, laundry, hot drinking water on the trek bar bills, hot showers
Electronic charges internet, battery charger, camera, Wi: Fi etc.
Your Personal travel insurance that would cover helicopter evacuation as well as medical expenses and trip cancellation
Tipping the trekking crew
Any other expenses not mentioned in the “service Included” section.
Departure Dates
Useful Info
Nepal Country Visa and Entry Procedure
Here are two ways to obtain a Nepalese visa. The first one is via the Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed in your country. As of the second way, you can easily obtain an On-Arrival visa at the entry/exit points stationed across the country. You can fill out an application form and provide the necessary documents to receive an On-Arrival Visa. Travellers can choose different visa types according to the length of their stay in Nepal.
The visa for 15 days costs USD 30, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. Also if your visa is about to expire but you are not yet done exploring the country, you can get your visa extended for USD 3 per day and if your visa has already expired, it costs USD 5 per day. This information regarding updated Visa Fees is available at the official website of the Department of Immigration at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/post/notice-regarding-visa-fee-updates.
International flights are only available through the only International airport i.e. the Tribhuvan International Airport. If you are planning on travelling to Nepal by air then TIA is your only option. Flights can be boarded from India, Dubai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur among many other destinations.
Travelling by land you have two options, via India and China. There is also a direct railway line connecting India and Nepal along with several bus facilities for travelling across the border from India.
Travelling by road through India is the most easily accessible. You can travel to Nepal through Sunauli- Bhairahawa, Raxaul – Birgunj, Siliguri- Kakarbhitta, Banbasa – Mahendranagar, or Bahraich- Nepalgunj. Kodari and Kerung are two entry/exit points stationed at the Nepal-Tibet border.
Popular Destinations to Visit
There are numerous travel destinations in Nepal; each with a unique identity and story of its own. Kathmandu is one of such destinations, with dozens of sightseeing to do, eateries to try out, and handicrafts to shop. Next up is Pokhara which enchants its visitors with its serene lakes and the enthralling views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Fishtail ranges. Similarly, Lumbini, Chitwan, Bandipur, and Palpa are a few other destinations which are ripe for tours and leisurely vacations. Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park are two of the most popular destinations for jungle safari and wildlife exploration.
As for adventure sports, Kathmandu and Pokhara offer plenty of choices including rafting, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and paragliding. Likewise, the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions stand out as prominent destinations for treks, peak climbing trips, and expeditions.
Things to do in Nepal
The nation is considered to be a paradise for trekkers and grants an exciting number of choices. On these treks, you will witness the grand views of the Himalayas and the cultural prosperity of the ethnic communities along the trails. Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek are two of the most popular treks in Nepal.
For those who are not satisfied with just gazing up to the mountains, you can go for a mountaineering expedition and peak climbing. While expeditions take you to mountains above the height of 6,500 meters, the destinations of peak climbing trips are low-lying peaks which can be summited even by amateurs. Everest (8848m), Annapurna (8091m), and Ama Dablam (6856m) are popular expedition sites whereas Island Peak (6189m), Mera Peak (6476m), and Pisang Peak (6091m) are the notable peak climbing destinations.
Short tours and sightseeing in Nepal are also quite popular among travellers in Nepal. Likewise, adventure sports like rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, canyoning, rock climbing, zip-lining, and mountain biking are also among the things that can be done in Nepal.
Trekking Seasons in Nepal
The country lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct climates: spring, summer (with monsoon), autumn, and winter. Normally, the best time to trek in Nepal is in March-May (spring) when the skies are clear, trails are filled with blooming flora, and the temperature is just right.
Another appropriate season is mid-September to November (autumn), during which the temperature is moderate, skies are clear, and mountain views are stunning. The summer season (June – August) is occupied by heavy rainfall increasing the chances of landslides in the hills, while the winter season brings in harsh weather conditions and extreme cold. However, there are treks which can be done during winter and monsoon as well.
Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang regions lie in the rain-shadow area so, they are ideal trek destinations during monsoon. Likewise, easy and low-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poonhill and Tamang Heritage Trek are perfect during the winter season.
While trekking in Nepal is extremely satisfying, altitude sickness might get a better hold of you at times. The air pressure and oxygen concentration decrease the higher you travel.
As such, altitude sickness is an illness that the human body suffers from due to these reasons. The symptoms of the sickness include lack of appetite, nausea, weakness, lightheartedness, sleep disturbance, tiredness, and headache. These symptoms generally appear when moving upwards of the height of 2,400 meters from sea level.
You can adopt different measures to avoid altitude sickness like a walk at a slow and steady pace, avoiding smoking, and stopping at different stations to acclimatize. Before beginning your trek, make sure you have a first aid kit with ibuprofen or paracetamol and Diamox. If anyone falls victim to altitude sickness, it is necessary to inform the trip leader and descend to a lower altitude. In extreme cases, it might also be necessary to perform Heli rescue and emergency evacuations.
Travel Insurance
Accidents can happen anywhere so, it is recommended that all tourists get travel insurance before visiting Nepal. Depending upon the insurance policy and the company, the insurance will look after tragic like theft, loss or accidental damage of gears and other belongings, baggage, and medical emergencies. Likewise, the insurance should also include helicopter evacuation and any kinds of mishaps that might occur during adventure sporting like bungee jumping, rafting, and zip-lining. No one is capable of foreseeing the accidents, but each individual can buy an insurance policy to lessen the effects of the accident.
Meals and Accommodations
In major cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu, you will get multiple options to choose from, from cheap lodges to extravagant 5 stars hotels. Likewise, you will also get to choose from a wide range of cuisines while in the major cities. However, once you move away from the cities, the options for meals and accommodations in Nepal will become limited. During the treks, the best accommodations available are lodges and teahouses. They provide basic facilities for dining and lodging. These places mostly serve traditional Nepali food “Daal Bhat Tarkari” (rice, pulses, and vegetables). Similarly, there are several other food varieties like Momo, Thukpa, and Thakali food available across Nepal.
Banking, ATMs, and Money in Nepal
Nepalese Rupees are the official currency of Nepal. The banknotes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 whereas coins of 1 and 2 are available in Nepal.
While travelling to Nepal, banking and money exchange are not a huge deal in big cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu. When you head to rural areas, the availability of banks, ATMs, and money exchange booths becomes fairly scarce. So, it is best to withdraw enough cash and exchange the currency in major cities. You can also exchange foreign currencies for Nepali Rupees at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You need to be updated about the exchange rates which are available at the official website of Neal Rastra Bank at https://www.nrb.org.np/fxmexchangerate.php.
Internet and Communication
It is quite easy to access the Internet in Nepal. Using Wi-Fi is a widely used way to communicate and use the Internet. Wi-Fi is easily available in major cities and even in some remote destinations. When trekking to remote locations, Wi-Fi might not always be available; so, using cellular data is the best way to communicate over the Internet. You can buy a Sim-card in Nepal at a reasonable price which allows you to make an international call. Also, you can use mobile data while you are in areas without Wi-Fi. Telephone, Fax, and newspapers are a few other forms of communication in Nepal.
Internal Flight Delays
Due to the geographical diversity and unpredictable climate in the Himalayas, internal flights are often delayed or cancelled. Weather conditions like heavy rainfall, storms, or fog can disrupt flights. So, it is wise to spare an extra day or two as buffer days, in case of flight delays and cancellations. Likewise, it is also necessary to note that the weather conditions are great during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. If you have enough time, you can also choose road transportation in such cases.
Health and Safety Including Traveling alone in Country
The country is very safe for all tourists and travellers. The country is not experiencing any armed conflicts, religious wars, or grave crimes. Travelling alone is also perfectly sage and you will find willing Nepalese to help you with your travel issues. We also advise solo travellers to inform their loved ones and authorities like local police about their travel destination and itinerary to remain on the safe side. However, there are many issues that you need to consider to trek alone. So, you should have ample knowledge and idea before going on a solo trek.
Likewise, there is a Tourist Police department in Nepal which looks after the welfare and safety of the travellers. You can learn more about them at the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board at https://www.welcomenepal.com/plan-your-trip/tourist-police.html.
In case of medical emergencies during your trek, you can visit the nearest health post which provides basic medical services. If the medical complication persists, you’ll have to head to the hospitals in towns and cities. Similarly, it is also necessary to follow a healthy and hygienic lifestyle when travelling in Nepal to stay fit and healthy.
Useful Nepali Phrases
English
Nepali
Thank You
Dhanyabad
How are you?
Tapaii lai Kasto Chha?
I am fine.
Malai Thick Cha
Have you eaten? (used often as an informal greeting)
Q1. On Annapurna Base Camp walks can I bring family with children?
Certainly this will be an exciting holiday for your people as well for adults, where walk leads to ups and down that is only the tough bit, otherwise, it’s a great interesting walk for all. For minor infants please bring carriage with straps to carry the younger kids especially on ups and down trails, where we can hire extra porters to carry the baby with the carriage.
Q2. When do I book for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Depending upon your time and duration for the trek you can book this trip at least 2-3 weeks ahead from our departure dates for the trek, with advance payment as per the norms and rules of the company. Make sure that you have checked your medical and physical fitness before signing the trip and as well purchasing medical and travel insurance which is very important for this kind of adventurous treks in Nepal Himalaya.
Q3. How many people will be in the group?
From the minimum 3-4 person in the group with the maximum of 10-15 persons in the group, in some cases we do allow booking for a single person as well, running independently at extra cost than in groups.
Q4. What will be weather like on the trek?
As per the season wise, the best time is from March to May, when most of the day is clear with minimum temperatures of 0° to 20° Celsius depending upon the altitude and areas. Where most of the morning till mid-days clears for views and walks, sometimes afternoon can get overcast with chances of light rains and snow. March to May will be lively with wild-flowers in full bloom especially various species of rhododendron (national flower of Nepal) from trees too short bushes.
Q5. How are the lodge and Tea-House on Treks?
Tea-House the word used in early days when there were smaller numbers of lodges on route trekking, at present each village has more than 10 to 20 good lodges with pleasant rooms accommodations, serving excellent food menus as per the season wise. Some village above 2,500 m do have a nice lodge, but due to freezing cold temperatures in night and morning time where they have toilets on the outside, with some inside as common bathrooms and restrooms. All rooms and dining with warm heating and cozy facilities to make your stay much pleasant and enjoyable.
Q6. Are there electricity and network for cell-phones?
Most of the places do have electricity on route trekking run by hydro-power after main villages, where much of electric supply are private and individual of the lodge owners with sun/solar power to activate electric just for the lodge and as well for customers to charge their computers and cell-phones. Some places do have networks for cell phones and as well for internets like Wi-Fi above Chomrong some areas due to high peaks and hills, the networks are disturbed in deep areas like around river gorge areas. At present nearly all people in Nepal including remote villages do have an assist to cell-phones with fine network connection only in bad weather the line can be broken, otherwise it is fine in working order.
Q7. What happens if some is sick and have to break the trek?
In this situation where our guides are well equipped with knowledge for emergency and medical purpose, depending upon the seriousness of the victims if it is much critical where nearest medical attention needed, we call for immediate evacuation for Helicopter services to reach the victims to nearest medical station and hospital.
Q8. What to expect on this journey?
Scenic views of world’s highest mountains with Dhaulagiri-Annapurna and Manaslu range include magnificent Machhapuchare Himal ‘Fish Tail’ peaks, where walk leads you around Buddhist country is interwoven with old traditional life and custom similar to Tibetans. The walk leads to visit Gurung villages and encountering many farm fields and terraces of interesting traditional life of the local villagers.
Q9. Who are Gurung people?
Gurung tribes are high hills people of Nepal Far Mid-West Himalaya spread out throughout Nepal, where most concentrated within Annapurna and Dhaulagiri area of both Hindu and Buddhist religion and origin, these hill tribes are famous as legendary Gurkha soldiers in foreign legion and army like British, India as well some as a police force in Singapore and security guards in many parts of the world overseas. Besides men-folk as famous Gurkha soldiers, the hill people are mostly farmers and cattle herders as the traditional profession.
Q10. Is it really spectacular in flowering times of March to May?
Absolutely the best months of the year and seasons for botany students, flower and nature lovers, where hills and valley alive with wild-flowers in full bloom with riots of different colors, rhododendron from tall trees too short bushes will be in flowering times, rhododendron national flower of Nepal also.
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