The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) in Nepal is a top-notch adventure. It’s like a magical journey where you get to experience a mix of stunning landscapes, fascinating cultures, and the thrill of getting up close to the world’s 10th highest mountain, Mt. Annapurna (8091m).
Picture this: You start with a scenic walk through lush green terraced fields, a feast for the eyes. As you trek further, you’ll come across charming Gurung villages where the locals are known for their warm hospitality and unique traditions.
But the real highlight of this adventure is the Annapurna Base Camp itself, perched at a lofty 4130m/13549ft. Here, you’re surrounded by giants, with Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) stealing the show. Once you reach the Annapurna Base Camp, prepare to be entranced by an incredible 360-degree mountain vista. Picture yourself amidst the grandeur of mountains like Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Varaha Sikhar (Fang), Tent Peak (Tharpu Chuli), and the revered Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). These monumental peaks create an awe-inspiring, almost surreal setting. It’s a moment where you feel humbled by the sheer scale and beauty of the Himalayas, an experience that’s bound to stay etched in your memory forever.
What’s great about this trek is that it’s well-organized, taking just 6 days. So, if you’re short on time, you can still have an amazing experience. But if you have a bit more time to spare, there’s a longer version called the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, which is fantastic for a more relaxed exploration.
In a nutshell, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines nature’s beauty and local culture. It’s like your personal journey filled with breathtaking moments, from the excitement of starting to the thrill of reaching the base camp. So, whether you’re an experienced trekker or a newbie, this adventure is one for the books!
Regarding the difficulty of this trek, it is very moderate and doesn’t demand advanced physical fitness levels so anyone can enjoy and take pleasure in nature walking during this trek.
Also, those who are traveling with children can get pleasure from this trek.
Trekking Annapurna Base Camp allows your body to get adapted and acclimatized with high altitude. It helps you to keep your body in better shape and you can tackle physically depending aerobic walk in thin air area.
Visitor having previous trekking experience with fit body can trek it without any problem. The highest elevation we will reach is 4130 meter from sea.
The day before our trekking expedition begins, we’ll gather for a memorable welcome dinner. It’s a perfect occasion for us to connect and become acquainted with one another before we set off on our exciting adventure. This dinner also provides a valuable opportunity for you to approach your guide with any final questions or concerns you may have.
Vehicle: 1h 30min
Trek: 6h, 1,289m ascent, 462m descent, 9.8km distance
Our adventure begins with a beautiful drive from Pokhara to Siwai, a small town that marks the start of our trek. Along the way, we’ll pass through charming villages such as Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar. These villages provide a glimpse of the local culture and set the stage for the exciting trek ahead. But it’s in Siwai that the real adventure unfolds.
As we embark on this incredible journey, our senses are treated to a stunning display of natural beauty. The landscape is dominated by majestic mountains, and we’ll witness the incredible sight of terraced farms clinging to steep hillsides. These farms seem to defy gravity, and they showcase the resourcefulness of the local farmers. Towering peaks pierce the sky, creating a dramatic backdrop, while lush subtropical forests envelop us in their green embrace.
Our trekking route from Siwai takes us to Hudu, and from there, we’ll continue on to Jhinu. Along this path, we’ll follow a tranquil and picturesque trail that meanders through a slender forest. This serene journey eventually leads us to the New Bridge, a gracefully suspended structure that spans the Modi Khola river. Crossing this suspension bridge is not only a physical step but also a symbolic one, as it marks our transition into the heart of the trek.
Beyond the bridge, the trail gently ascends via a well-paved stone staircase, eventually bringing us to Jhinu Danda. Here, we’re rewarded with serene landscapes and distant views of snow-capped mountains on the horizon. It’s a perfect spot to pause and take in the natural beauty that surrounds us.
While much of our trek follows manageable trails, it’s important to highlight a unique challenge we’ll encounter from Jhinu to Chommrong to Sinuwa. This part of the journey features a demanding stone-paved staircase. It’s a rigorous ascent that requires about an hour of dedication and effort. However, our determination is rewarded when we reach Chhomrong, which stands as the highest permanent settlement in the valley.
Chhomrong is renowned for its Gurung community and the astounding panoramic mountain vistas it offers. Annapurna South and Hiunchuli seem to loom directly over the village, creating a breathtaking scene. Additionally, our eyes are drawn to the captivating sight of Machhapuchhare, often referred to as the “Fish Tail” peak, as well as the majestic Mardi peak situated across the valley. It’s at this point that the name of Machhapuchhare takes on profound and captivating significance as we stand in awe of its distinctive shape and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
7h 30min, 1,138m ascent, 1,152m descent, 14.17km distance
Embarking on an adventurous one-day trek from the picturesque village of Chhomrong (1,970m), we begin our journey with an early morning breakfast. Our path takes us through a diverse range of enchanting locations, each with its unique allure. Starting with a descent from Chhomrong, we pass through the quaint village of Bhanuwa, then meander through the serene Lower Sinuwa, where lush bamboo, rhododendron, and oak forests envelop us. Upper Sinuwa follows, offering mesmerizing forest scenery, before we reach Bamboo, nestled in a narrow valley with striking mountain views.
After the refreshing forest trek from Bamboo to Dovan, we find ourselves surrounded by the peaceful and verdant bamboo forest. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of this region. Continuing on our journey, we finally arrive in Dovan, where we break for a well-deserved lunch. This midday rest and refueling allow us to recharge our energy amidst the enchanting atmosphere of the region.
Between Dovan and Himalaya, we are treated to a breathtaking spectacle—a stunning waterfall gracing our journey. The cascading waters create a refreshing and awe-inspiring sight as we trek through this pristine wilderness. It’s a moment to pause and marvel at the natural beauty surrounding us.
As we journey on from Himalaya, our destination is Deurali, and on this leg of the journey, we encounter the remarkable Hinku Cave. This natural wonder adds another layer of intrigue to our trek, and we explore its depths before continuing towards Deurali.
However, between Hinku Cave and Deurali, we approach a challenging segment of our journey—an avalanche-prone zone. This section, taking approximately one hour, demands caution and swiftness, as the terrain becomes precarious due to the looming threat of avalanches. Our group prioritizes safety, ensuring a swift crossing of this risky zone. Finally, we arrive at Deurali (3,230m), our day’s destination. Here, we unwind in the cool mountain air, savoring the sense of accomplishment after a challenging day of trekking. A well-deserved dinner in Deurali allows us to reflect on the varied and memorable places we’ve experienced throughout our trekking adventure.
5h, 1489m ascent, 761m descent, 12.5km distance
As we ascend beyond Deurali, the landscape undergoes a stunning transformation. The valley widens, the slopes become gentler, and we start catching glimpses of the ‘gateway’ to the sanctuary, marked by the towering peaks. It’s a moment when nature’s grandeur commands our utmost respect.
However, this pristine beauty comes with a wild side. After heavy snowfall, avalanches from the unseen Hiunchuli and Annapurna South, the towering peaks above, can rush down the valley at remarkable speed and frequency. But fear not, the lodge owners in Deurali and our experienced guides keep a vigilant watch, ensuring our safety in this dynamic terrain.
The trail wisely takes us away from avalanche-prone areas, leading through a captivating mix of bamboo and birch. We’ll gracefully cross more avalanche paths, traverse a rugged moraine, and descend to a clear mountain stream. Our journey continues to the Machhapuchhare Base Camp. Technically, there’s no official ‘Machhapuchhare Base Camp’ since climbing the revered peak is not allowed. Nevertheless, the vistas at this elevation are nothing short of spectacular. We’ll see Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III (7,555m), Gangapurna (7,454m), and the ever-mystical Machhapuchhare, whose iconic triangular face takes on yet another captivating aspect in this sacred place.
But, as we venture higher, we must be mindful of the thinning air, which can lead to altitude-related challenges. Our experienced guide will deftly lead the way, especially when fresh snow obscures the trail. The hotels of the base camp may seem tantalizingly close, but the trail winds along a substantial lateral moraine, so it takes a bit of time to reach them. The atmosphere here is crisp, often snowy, with snow sometimes reaching the rooftops in spring.
Once we reach Annapurna Base Camp, we find ourselves surrounded by a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of towering giants. This is undoubtedly the most spellbinding and beautiful segment of the entire trek. The sensation is nothing short of experiencing a slice of heaven on Earth. The peace and awe-inspiring beauty that pervade this place are beyond words, and it’s an experience that will stay with us for a lifetime. Here, under the starlit sky, we have the privilege of spending the night at Annapurna Base Camp, adding a touch of celestial magic to our remarkable trekking adventure.
6h, 445m ascent, 2,250m descent, 14km distance
Mornings typically greet us with crystal-clear skies at Annapurna Base Camp. However, as the day progresses, clouds tend to roll in, sometimes obscuring the majestic peaks by noon. Fortunately, they often clear again in the late afternoon, revealing the stunning mountain vistas once more.
In the morning, we’ll have the incredible opportunity to witness a stunning sunrise behind the iconic Mount Fishtail. As the golden rays of the sun gradually embrace the rugged Annapurna peaks, they transform them into a mesmerizing spectacle of gold. This magical moment, as the mountains glisten like precious metal, is undeniably the most enchanting and unforgettable experience of our entire trek. It’s a scene that will be etched in our memories for a lifetime.
For a truly memorable sunrise experience, we’ll embark on a morning walk to a prayer-flag-draped viewpoint on the moraine. From this vantage point, we’re treated to a spectacular view over the glacier as the first rays of sunlight paint the mountains in a warm, golden hue. Nearby, we’ll also come across a memorial chorten, a stone Buddhist monument dedicated to climbers who have ventured into these formidable peaks.
While the sanctuary may not host many bird species, it is home to other fascinating wildlife. Look out for thar, Himalayan weasels, and pika as you explore the area. These creatures add to the unique and vibrant ecosystem of this pristine environment.
Today, as we leave this mountain paradise behind, we’ll be making our way back to Bamboo, our next destination. The journey from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo promises to be a memorable one. Along the way, we’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the towering giants, the Annapurna peaks. The lush bamboo forests that envelop the trail will create a serene and enchanting atmosphere, and we’ll have ample opportunities to spot various types of wildlife that call this region home.
Additionally, we’ll have the chance to immerse ourselves in the local culture as we pass through charming villages and interact with the hospitable locals. It’s a day filled with diverse experiences, from the awe-inspiring mountain vistas to the vibrant natural surroundings and the rich cultural tapestry of this region.
4h, 528m ascent, 1,059m descent, 8.5km distance
Our trek carries on as we leave Annapurna Base Camp behind. We descend to Kimrong Khola and then begin an ascent through serene forests filled with rhododendron, bamboo, and oak. These woods offer a peaceful and calming backdrop as we make our way.
The path eventually leads us to the picturesque village of Chomrong. However, we decide to continue our journey a bit further to a small and serene settlement known as Jhinu Danda. Here, a pleasant surprise awaits us – natural hot springs by the riverside. After days of trekking, these hot springs provide a well-deserved opportunity to relax and ease our tired muscles.
In Jhinu Danda, we’ll find a cozy place to spend the night and enjoy our final day of trekking in this tranquil mountain setting. It’s a chance to unwind fully and savor the last moments of our remarkable adventure.
Trek: 3h 30min, 800m descent, 5.8km distance
Vehicle: 2h 30min
Today marks the final day of our trekking adventure. We bid adieu to the serene Jhinu Danda and commence our journey. Our route follows a dusty road that runs alongside the Mardi Khola. After a leisurely walk, we arrive at Siwai, which signifies the beginning of the last phase of our expedition.
From Siwai, our mode of transportation shifts. We embark on a drive that takes us to Birethanti, and from there, we continue on to Nayapul. This drive ultimately brings us back to the bustling city of Pokhara, where our remarkable trek draws to a close.
As we arrive in Pokhara, we take a moment to reminisce about the precious memories we’ve forged on our way to Annapurna Base Camp. It’s also an opportune time to express our heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional team that has supported us throughout this journey – our dedicated porter and knowledgeable guide. Their unwavering assistance and unwavering support have been instrumental in making this adventure an unforgettable experience.
The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) varies depending on the season, and each season offers a unique trekking experience:
Autumn (September to November):
Spring (March to May):
Winter (December to February):
Monsoon/Summer (June to August):
In summary, the best time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is during autumn (September to November) when the weather is at its best, providing clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Spring (March to May) is also a great choice with blooming rhododendrons. While winter and monsoon seasons have their own unique appeal, they come with more challenges and are less favored by most trekkers. Always consider your preferences, fitness level, and tolerance for different weather conditions when planning your trek to ABC.
Travel insurance is compulsory for the trek. All the trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate. The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation – including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes (up to 4,000m).
Trekking members are kindly requested to send their detailed insurance information after trek booking. In case of emergencies, we will be using the insurance policy and informational documents you sent us. It will help us arrange a quick and effective rescue operation, transfer for emergency medical help, etc. Please ensure that your insurance covers all costs incurred during mountain rescue service.
Before buying travel insurance, make sure to call the insurance company and recheck if they have heli-rescue up to 4,000m.
We recommend you bring a container for one liter of water. In the teahouses we can buy boiled water suitable for drinking with which to fill our bottles. Another option is to refill the water from the fountains that we find along the way or from the tap of the teahouses themselves, for this we have to count on water disinfectant tablets that we can find in pharmacies.
Between Dovan and Machhapuchhare Base Camp there are several places where avalanches from hidden slopes of Hiunchuli come crashing onto the trail. It is the only major trekking route in Nepal with significant avalanche danger. Our certified local guide will know whether the trail is safe. Most avalanches occur after 9am. We will be specially wary if there has been recent heavy rainfall in the lowlands.
We will be watchful for symptoms of altitude sickness as we reach Machhapuchhare Base Camp. Do not hesitate to tell everything to your guide and remember to stay especially hydrated.
The 50km-long Annapurna massif encompasses a whole swathe of spectacular peaks, including four summits named Annapurna. The mountain is named after the female Hindu god of harvest, fertility and abundance.
The main summit is to the west of Annapurna Sanctuary. Gangapurna (7,454m) towers above Manang and Annapurna II (7,937m) is above Chame, about 24km to the east. Annapurna South (7,219m) is clearly visible from the trekking routes leading up to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Annapurna (8,091m) was first climbed by a French expedition led by Maurice Herzog in 1950. Equipped with 150 porters, the team became the first Westerners to ascend the Kali Gandaki Valley, initially basing themselves at Tukuche. After deciding Dhaulagiri was too difficult, they turned their attention to climbing Annapurna, the world’s 10th-highest peak. Hampered by inaccurate maps (it took the team weeks just to find the mountain!), they eventually ascended via the Miristi Khola to the north face and made what was the first ascent of any 8,000m peak on 3 June, just days before the start of the monsoon. The summiteers suffered severe frostbite on the descent (as depicted in Herzog’s classic Annapurna) and were finally evacuated back to the roadbed in India.
Annapurna was not climbed again until 1970, when a British army expedition followed essentially the same route as Herzog. At the same time Chris Bonington led a successful British expedition to the very steep and difficult south face. An all-woman team marked the first American ascent in 1978. Annapurna II was first climbed in 1960 by a team under Jimmy Roberts that included a younger Chris Bonington.
Annapurna is considered one of the hardest and most dangerous peaks in Himalaya, with an ascent rate half (and a death rate triple) that of Everest, largely due to the avalanches that regularly rip down the mountain. Famed mountain guide Anatoli Boukreev (one of the climbers involved in the Everest ‘Into Thin Air’ disaster of 1996) was killed by an avalanche while attempting a winter ascent on Christmas Day in 1997, and his memorial is in Annapurna Base Camp.
Yo, Firantes, you totally rocked my 6-day Annapurna Base Camp trek! From stunning views to cozy tea houses, it was like a whirlwind adventure. Shoutout to the guides who made every step a laugh and a memory. An epic experience in a nutshell! 🏞️🥾
Our family embarked on the 6-day Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek with Firantes, and it exceeded our expectations. The journey was flawlessly organized. The guides’ expertise and patience ensured our safety and comfort throughout. Witnessing the awe-inspiring landscapes as a family created memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Thank you, Firantes, for making this a wholesome and unforgettable adventure for us.
Una experiencia super guay !!!!!!!!