Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Key Facts at a Glance

Location
Nepal
Region
Annapurna
Duration
14 days
Group Size
Min. 1 Pax
Max Elevation
4,130 m
Difficulty
Moderate
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Best Seasons
Spring and Autumn
Start Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Kathmandu
Permit
Required
Food
Three Meals/Day

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a high-altitude trekking route in Nepal that takes you up to Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 m. It is a natural amphitheater, providing 360-degree panoramic view of some of the world's most iconic giants, which includes Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m).

The journey to get there is almost as beautiful as the destination itself, as you wind your way through gorgeous rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and hillside farmland. And after you’ve finished your trek the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda are the perfect place to relax those tired muscles and maybe even reflect on the journey you just completed.

You will have the opportunity to explore the culture and traditions of various ethnic communities in Nepal, particularly the Gurung and Magar communities. The trail is pretty accessible (camping is not required), thanks to the abundance of teahouses and lodges along the way.

The ABC trek is moderately tough, so it's suitable for both experienced and first-time travelers. Risk of altitude-related sickness, long walking hours (~5-7 hours per day), lots of stone stairs makes the trek slightly difficult but still manageable with proper precautions.

The best time for the trek is either spring (March–May) or autumn (September-November) when the skies are clear, flowers are blooming, and the weather is stable. If you don’t want a crowded trail, winter (Dec-Feb) is also a good option. Monsoon (Jun-Aug) is not considered ideal as the trail gets slippery, landslides and road blockage are common, and the clouds usually block the view of the mountains.

For the trek, you’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs NPR 3,000 (approximately $23 USD). The TIMS card is no longer required as of 2026.

Although Nepal announced a “No Guide, No Trek” policy in 2023, enforcement in the Annapurna region has remained inconsistent. Many trekkers still complete the Annapurna Base Camp trek independently without issues. However, regulations can change, so it’s wise to check the latest updates before your trip or consider hiring a licensed guide for added safety and convenience.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek typically takes 5-15 days to complete. Our 14-day itinerary is perfect for beginners, as it includes acclimatization days, which is very important to prevent altitude-related sickness.

Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Surrounded by around 14 peaks whose height is above 7,000 m, which include Annapurna I , Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri I, Hiunchuli, and Tharpu Chuli.
Panoramic views throughout the trek and an impressive sunrise in Poon Hill.
Chance to experience authentic Gurung and Magar culture in their villages.
Experience local food like dal bhat, momo, thukpa, etc. along the trail.
Tea Houses and lodges throughout the trek, so no need for camping.
Natural Hot Springs in Jhinu Dadha provide mid-trip relaxation.
Safer, accessible, and more affordable than the Everest Base Camp Trek but equally rewarding and iconic.
Diverse Landscape: Rhododendron Forest, alpine meadows, glaciers, pine oak tree, terraced farmland, and snowfields.

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation

Day 03

Kathmandu drive by tourist bus to Pokhara (850 m)

Day 04

Pokhara drive to Nayapul then trek to Tikhedhunga (1,577 m)

Day 05

Tikhedhunga trek to Ghorepani (2,855 m)

Day 06

Ghorepani visit Poon Hill (3,210 m) and trek to Tadapani (2,610 m)

Day 07

Tadapani trek to Chhomrong (2,170 m)

Day 08

Chhomrong Trek to Himalaya (2,900 m)

Day 9

Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)

Day 10

ABC trek to Bamboo (2,310 m)

Day 11

Bamboo trek to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m), Hot Spring

Day 12

Jhinu Danda trek to Pothana (1,900 m)

Day 13

Pothana trek to Dhampus phedi and drive to Pokhara (850 m)

Day 14

Return to Kathmandu

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Map and Elevation

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route Map showing the path and key landmarks — Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route Map

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Elevation Profile

Price Includes

Airport pick up and airport drop by private transportation including before and after the trek
Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (2 and above participants get twin sharing room in 3-star standard hotel)
Historical monument city sightseeing with a tour guide
Historical monuments city sightseeing transportation by Non A/C Comfortable Vehicle
Kathmandu sightseeing/monument visits Entrance fees
Accommodation in Pokhara as per the itinerary with complimentary breakfast (2 and above participants get twin sharing room in a tourist standard hotel)
Kathmandu to Pokhara and return transportation by tourist bus
Trekking accommodation in normal Trekkers lodge/Teahouse (2 and above participants get twin sharing room)
Three time meals a day during the trekking Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner/Main course
Dessert (Fresh Fruits/Chocolate) after dinner on behalf of the company
One Experienced English-speaking, government licensed and ministry of tourism trained trekking guide and his food, accommodation, and salary
Porters carrying your luggage while trekking (Two guests get one porter carrying a maximum of 25 kg of luggage)
Pokhara to Nayapul and Dhampus Phedi to Pokhara transportation by private vehicle
Annapurna Conservation area project entry permit
Insurance for Nepalese staff (Trekking guide and Porters)
Nepal Government taxes and office service charge

Price Excludes

Lunch and Dinner during the stay in Kathmandu
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
International and domestic air tickets
Nepal visa fee
Personal trekking equipment and Clothing
Wire Transfer charge or Credit card service charge as company rule
Alcoholic beverages, laundry, Telephone calls and all types of hot drinks in Trekking
Soft drinks such as cola, mineral water etc
Hot water, battery charge and hot shower charge during the trek (If need to pay)
Personal nature expenses and Tipping (Tips)
High risk medical / travel insurance and First aid kit
Expenses resulting from delays beyond our control in case of weather, flight cancellations, or natural calamities
Emergency rescue evacuation (if needed)
Any other things not mentioned

Best Time to Do the Annapurna Base Camp trek

As I mentioned before, Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. But that doesn’t mean you cannot travel to ABC during the monsoon or winter; it’s just more challenging. If you are up for challenges, it’s totally doable. Now let’s talk about what each season is good for so you can decide which time is best suitable for you.

1. Spring (March-May)

• Blooming time of Rhododendrons and wildflowers.

• Stable Weather, clear skies, and great mountain views.

• Mild temperatures, comfortable trekking

2. Autumn (September-November)

• Best season for a great view of the mountains.

• Crisp air and clear skies, ideal for photography.

• Stable weather, dry trails.

3. Winter (December-February)

• Quiet, peaceful trails with fewer trekkers.

• Crisp air and clear skies on good days.

• Snow adds a magical, serene vibe.

4. Monsoon (June-August)

• Lush, green landscapes and roaring waterfalls.

• Trails wrapped in mist → dreamy, mystical atmosphere.

• Fewer trekkers, very peaceful.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Alternative Itineraries and trekking routes

10–12 Day Annapurna Base Camp & Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu → hotel

Day 2: Drive Kathmandu → Pokhara → hotel

Day 3: Drive Pokhara → Nayapul → trek to Tikhedhunga (via Birethanti)

Day 4: Trek Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani (via Ulleri, Banthanti)

Day 5: Hike Ghorepani → Poon Hill → trek to Tadapani

Day 6: Trek Tadapani → Chhomrong

Day 7: Trek Chhomrong → Sinuwa → Himalaya Hotel

Day 8: Trek Himalaya Hotel → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) → Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

Day 9: Trek ABC → Dovan → Bamboo

Day 10: Trek Bamboo → Jhinu Danda (hot springs)

Day 11: Trek Jhinu Danda → Nayapul → Drive to Pokhara

Day 12: Drive Pokhara → Kathmandu

7 Day Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary from Pokhara

Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → Syauli Bazaar → Kimche → Ghandruk

Day 2: Ghandruk → Chhomrong → Sinuwa

Day 3: Chhomrong / Sinuwa → Himalaya → Deurali

Day 4: Himalaya / Deurali → Machapuchhre Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp

Day 5: Annapurna Base Camp → Dovan → Bamboo

Day 6: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda (hot springs)

Day 7: Jhinu Danda → Siwa / Ghandruk Phedi → Nayapul → Pokhara

Costs and Permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Independent Trekking Costs

These are just the normal estimations; prices may fluctuate based on the time of the year.

Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) NPR 3,000 (~USD 25) per person. TIMS card not required with licensed guide.

Guide fee: ~$20–30/day; optional trek guide porter ~$15–20/day.

Transport: Pokhara → Nayapul jeep ~$10–15; Kathmandu → Pokhara bus ~$10–20 or flight ~$90(airfare fluctuates a lot, so please check it online).

Lodging: Tea houses ~$3–5/night.

Meals: Dal Bhat ~$5, breakfast/lunch/dinner $4–8.

Additional Costs: Showers $2–5, phone charging $2–4, Wi-Fi $3–5, tips $5–10/day, and other personal expenses.

Note: There is no ATM available on the trail after Pokhara, so make sure to bring enough cash.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, the ABC trek is surely suitable for beginners. It is a moderately difficult trek because it doesn’t require climbing or mountaineering skills like gearing, rope handling, and knots. That being said, you still need to have some physical fitness because the trail includes lots of walking, stone steps, and uneven terrains.

Preperation for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Physical Fitness for ABC trek

Start training at least a month before coming to the trek and it will make your trek much easier and enjoyable. Start slow and gradually increase the intensity. Focus more on cardio, core strength and overall endurance so your body is prepared for all the challenges. Here’s the simple training breakdown:

Cardio: Hike, run, cycle, climb stairs 3-4 times/week for endurance.
Strength: Squats, lunges, step-ups; core exercises; back exercises for carrying duffle bags or backpacks.
Backpack Training: Long hikes with a loaded trekking bag (start 5-7kg, build to 10-12kg).
Flexibility: Stretch daily, yoga or mobility drills to prevent injuries.
Altitude Prep: Spend nights at moderate altitude; hydrate; monitor oxygen level.
Trail Practice: Hike uneven terrain; use trekking poles; break in trekking shoes.

Altitude Sickness Prevention and Safety Tips for ABC trek

You're at risk of getting hit with AMS above 2,500 metres: headache, nausea, dizziness, terrible sleep, and struggling to breathe are the common symptoms of altitude sickness.

Preventive Measures of AMS

Drink 3-4 liters of water every day during the trek.
Don’t skip meals even if high altitude suppresses your appetite.
Avoid alcohol after 2,500 m, because it can cause dehydration and affect sleep quality.
Consider taking a prescription from a doctor for Diamox or other AMS-related medicine.
Avoid elevation gain of more than 300-500 meters after 3,000 m.
Our Trekking staff are always there for your help, so if you get any symptoms, don’t try to fight it yourself, talk to them and their expertise will surely help you.

Accommodation, Facilities, and Food on the Trek

The trail consists of various tea houses, lodges, and guesthouses, which are the main accommodation for the trek. Don’t expect luxury or high-end facilities in the ABC trek, most of the lodges are locally owned, so you will get basic facilities like warm meal, a bathroom, and a bed to rest. Most of the guesthouses also have Wi-Fi, which usually costs around $2 (200-300 NPR).

At the Lower regions, you get a variety of foods which include pizza, momo, chowmein, thukpa, noodles, pancakes, pasta, and many more. But as you go higher, the choices of food go down. Dal Bhat, noodles, and soups are the main options at higher altitudes.

How to Get to the Starting Point for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Getting to Pokhara from Kathmandu: you've got a few options - catch a bus (anywhere from 6 to 8 hours for around $10-25) or splurge on a flight ( that's 20-30 minutes for around $90-100).
Once you get to Pokhara the next bit is a doddle - just hop in a shared jeep or taxi (~1.5 hours, $10-15) and get to Nayapul or Birethanti. The trail actually starts at one of these two places

Gear Up for Your Trek

Here’s a concise guide of essentials to prepare smartly for your trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

Overview & Essentials

Annapurna Base Camp is a multi-day mountain trek in Nepal’s Annapurna Sanctuary. It climbs from low elevations (near 800m) up to about 4,130m (13,550ft) at the base camp. Along the 110 km route you pass through rhododendron forests, terraced villages and alpine landscapes, ending in a horseshoe of snow-capped peaks surrounding ABC.

The full ABC trail is roughly 110 km round-trip. Most trekkers complete it in about 5–12 days of walking. Daily hiking is typically 4–8 hours, so you should plan for at least a week (plus arrival/departure days) to complete the trek comfortably.

The ABC trek is rated moderate. It is lower altitude (4,130m) than, say, Everest Base Camp, but still requires good fitness for long uphill days. The trail has many stone steps and steep sections. No technical climbing skills are needed, but you should be prepared for long days and thinner air. Compared to higher treks, Annapurna is easier – its lower maximum altitude and well-developed trail give it a high success rate among trekkers.

Yes. As of April 1, 2023, Nepal bans independent foreign trekking. All foreign trekkers must hike with a licensed guide (or join a guided group) in protected trekking areas like Annapurna. This rule was introduced to improve safety and environmental protection. Local guides (and often porters) can be arranged through a trekking agency or in Pokhara.

You must obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) before starting. The ACAP permit costs NPR 3,000 (about USD $25–30) for foreigners. Previously, a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card was also required, but since April 2023 the government has made guides mandatory in the Annapurna region. Because of this, TIMS is no longer needed for independent trekkers all trekkers must now join with a guide, who will register them officially.

The ideal seasons are autumn (October–November) and spring (March–May). In autumn the monsoon has cleared, leaving crisp air and clear skies; in spring the rhododendron forests are in bloom. The trek is typically busiest in these seasons. Winter (Dec–Feb) is colder and monsoon (June–Sept) brings heavy rain, so those periods are less popular.

Annapurna Base Camp sits at about 4,130 meters above sea level. This is the highest point of the trek, where you reach a natural amphitheater of peaks. (You will also pass Machhapuchhare Base Camp at ~3,700m on the way up.)

Many first-time trekkers do ABC as an introduction to Himalaya trekking. It does not require mountaineering skills, but you should have a good basic fitness and be prepared for altitude. The trek is somewhat strenuous (long days with ups and downs), but it is considered easier than higher expeditions. Beginners should acclimatize well and go at a moderate pace.

The trailhead is typically near Nayapul/Phedi, which is about a 1–2 hour drive from Pokhara. Most trekkers first fly or travel to Pokhara and then take a jeep or taxi to Nayapul. (Pokhara itself is reached by flight or tourist bus from Kathmandu.) From Nayapul the hiking route goes north toward Ghandruk and higher.

The ABC trek is famous for its variety. You’ll walk through lush green forests of rhododendron and oak, past terraced farms and small Gurung villages, and along river gorges. Mid-trek, Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) Base Camp offers a great view of Mt. Fishtail. In the final days you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary – an enormous cirque of giant peaks. At ABC you’ll be surrounded by many of the Annapurna massif summits (Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, etc.) during sunrise, which is often cited as a highlight.

Arrival & Visas

Yes. All foreign nationals (except Indians) need a tourist visa to enter Nepal. Nepal offers visas on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at major land borders. You’ll need a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity and a blank page for the visa stamp.

The cost of a tourist visa on arrival varies depending on the length of your stay. For 15 days, it’s USD $30; for 30 days, USD $50; and for 90 days, USD $125. Payments are usually made in cash, with US dollars being preferred. If your stay is longer than initially planned, visas can be extended at immigration offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Most international travelers fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. From there, you can take a domestic flight or bus to Pokhara, which is the main gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp trek. A new international airport has opened in Pokhara, but most long-haul routes still go via Kathmandu.

Most international travelers fly into Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. From there, you can reach Pokhara—the main gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp trek—by a short domestic flight of about 25–35 minutes, which costs roughly USD $150–200 for a round trip. Alternatively, tourist buses take around 6–8 hours for the 200 km journey, costing between USD $10–25. The bus ride is slower but offers scenic views along the way.

You need a passport valid for at least 6 months from your entry date, with one blank visa page. A tourist visa form must be filled out on arrival (or online in advance). If entering by land, bring passport photos and cash for border fees.

Yes. Besides your tourist visa, you must have the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs NPR 3,000 (around USD $25–30). The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card is no longer enforced since guides are now mandatory. Your trekking agency or guide will usually arrange the ACAP permit for you.

Permits are issued at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. In practice, most trekkers get it in Pokhara just before starting the trek. You’ll need a passport copy and passport photos.

Tourist visas are available for 15, 30, or 90 days. Most people trekking to Annapurna Base Camp only need a 15–30 day visa. If you want to stay longer, you can extend your visa at immigration offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara before your visa expires.

Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended. Policies should cover high-altitude trekking (up to 5,000m), medical care, trip cancellation, and helicopter evacuation. Emergency helicopter rescue from the mountains can cost thousands of dollars, so insurance is essential for safety and financial protection.

Yes, transportation from Pokhara to the Annapurna Base Camp trek starting point can easily be arranged.

Health & Safety

No vaccinations are legally required to enter Nepal. However, health experts recommend hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines (like tetanus), and to stay updated on COVID-19 vaccinations. Drinking only bottled or boiled water helps prevent illness.

Since ABC’s maximum altitude is 4,130 m, altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness, AMS) is a concern. Prevent it by ascending gradually, allowing acclimatization days if needed. Stay well-hydrated, eat enough calories, and avoid overexertion on the first few high days. Some trekkers use acetazolamide (Diamox) as prescribed by a doctor to help acclimatize. If symptoms such as headache or nausea occur, do not ascend further and rest or descend until recovered.

Early AMS symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and loss of appetite. You may also feel short of breath or have trouble sleeping. In serious cases (HAPE/HACE), symptoms can escalate to severe breathlessness, confusion, or fluid in the lungs. Always monitor how you feel each day. Follow the rule “climb high, sleep low” and don’t rush your ascent. If symptoms persist, descend immediately.

No, malaria is not a concern above about 2,000 m. The Annapurna trail stays well above 800 m, and malaria-carrying mosquitoes do not inhabit these high elevations. Dengue and Japanese encephalitis are also very low-risk in the hills; they occur mainly in lowland valleys during the monsoon. In Kathmandu or Pokhara, take standard mosquito precautions, but once in the Himalaya, malaria pills are not needed.

Tap or spring water in the villages is not safe to drink untreated. Always drink boiled or bottled water. Many lodges will provide boiled water for free or bottled water for a fee. A good strategy is to boil water each evening or use purification tablets/filters. Staying hydrated with safe water is critical at altitude. Carry a refillable bottle or hydration pack and refill with boiled water at lodges to minimize plastic waste.

Eat only well-cooked foods and avoid raw vegetables or street food. Teahouses serve Western and Nepalese dishes (dal-bhat, noodles, momo, etc.) that are generally safe and hygienic. High-carbohydrate meals like dal-bhat are hearty and help maintain energy. Wash hands regularly or use sanitizer before eating. Consider bringing rehydration salts or antibiotics as a precaution against traveler’s diarrhea; spring trekking season has a higher risk of intestinal infections in Nepal.

Generally, yes. Most teahouses in the Annapurna region are run by locals trained under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), and kitchens are usually clean. A balanced diet is typical (rice, lentils, vegetables, meat until mid-trek). Standards vary: most spots boil water for tea and wash dishes, but always use boiled or purified water for drinking. Carry hand sanitizer. In lower villages, you’ll find flush toilets; higher up, expect mostly squat latrines, often with a bucket-flush. Pack toilet paper and hand sanitizer as many lodges don’t supply them.

The most common issues are mild diarrhea (traveler’s diarrhea), headaches (often from altitude or dehydration), and colds/flu. Diarrhea and vomiting are often caused by contaminated water or food; use bottled or purified water and safe food to avoid it. Cold snaps at night or poorly insulated lodges can also lead to hypothermia or respiratory illness. With good precautions, these problems are usually minor and treatable.

During summer (monsoon season, June–August), heavy rains can cause landslides and floods on trails and roads, making trekking dangerous. Many trekkers avoid the trail in monsoon for this reason. Walking with a guide helps avoid unsafe side paths. At higher altitudes, weather can change rapidly—snow or storms can occur even outside winter. Always check forecasts, follow the advice of local guides and lodge-keepers, and be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.

To stay hydrated and avoid illnesses on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, drink plenty of safe water, either boiled, filtered, or bottled, and carry a refillable bottle. Use electrolytes or ORS to replace minerals lost through sweat, and eat only well-cooked meals, avoiding raw vegetables, unwashed fruits, and street food. Wash your hands or use sanitizer before eating, and ascend gradually to prevent altitude sickness, keeping an eye out for symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness. Stay warm and dry to reduce the risk of illness, and carry personal hygiene items such as toilet paper and hand sanitizer to maintain cleanliness throughout the trek.

Weather & Temperature

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most popular trekking seasons with stable weather and clear skies.

Temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially at higher altitudes. Days are usually moderate, but proper layering is important.

Yes, extreme weather can cause delays, especially for flights or high passes. We always try to adjust plans safely and flexibly.

Accommodation & Facilities

There are teahouse lodges in every village along the route, providing twin-share rooms with basic beds, pillows, and blankets. Most rooms do not have private bathrooms, with toilets and showers usually outside the room. Lodging offers simple comfort and warm dining areas, often heated by a wood stove. You do not need to camp unless you prefer to; the trek can be completed lodge-to-lodge.

Teahouses serve three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—focusing on high-carb, easy-to-digest foods. Common dishes include Dal Bhat (rice and lentil curry), noodle soups (thukpa), vegetable or chicken momos, pasta, chapati, pancakes, and toast. Food gets more expensive at higher elevations but is generally safe and well-prepared. A full Dal Bhat plate costs around $5–7 USD. Tea, coffee, and boiled water are usually available, with many places offering unlimited evening refills of Dal Bhat.

While blankets are provided, it is strongly recommended to bring a warm sleeping bag rated to at least –10°C. Lodges may provide extra quilts or electric blankets at higher elevations, but nights can drop well below freezing. A good sleeping bag ensures comfort during cold nights.

Most teahouses offer hot showers for a small fee (~$2–4). Lower villages often have solar- or gas-heated showers, while above 3,000 m hot water may be limited to lukewarm or cold. During wet or cold seasons, showers may be skipped, with wet wipes as an alternative.

Lower villages typically have Western-style flush toilets. Higher up, expect mostly squat toilets in shared blocks, often with water buckets for flushing. Facilities are basic but reasonably clean. Carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as many lodges do not supply these.

Wi-Fi is available in many teahouses up to around Deurali (~3,230 m) for a small fee. Connections are usually slow. At ABC (4,130 m), Wi-Fi is very weak or unavailable, with intermittent 3G coverage up to about Chhomrong/Sinuwa (~3,500 m).

Most teahouses have electricity (solar or hydro) and provide charging points for a small fee (~$2–3 per device). Charging is typically done in the dining room during limited hours. A power bank is recommended, as electricity may be intermittent above Deurali.

Lodging is modest, with twin rooms in lower villages costing $5–10 per night, while higher camps may charge more. Meals range from $3–10, showers $2–4, Wi-Fi $2–4, and phone charging $2–5 per device. Prices rise with altitude, and most places accept cash only.

Teahouses are generally clean, family-run, and regulated by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. Kitchens follow hygiene standards and use boiled or bottled water. Sleeping rooms are simple but bedding is usually clean, with communal areas swept. Carry hand sanitizer and drink bottled water for safety.

Yes, most lodges do not provide these. Carry toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes for washing. Bringing your own supplies ensures comfort, especially on longer legs with limited facilities.

Packing & Gear

You’ll need layered clothing, good trekking boots, a daypack, a sleeping bag (if not provided), and basic toiletries. A detailed packing list will be shared upon booking.

Yes, you can rent most essential gear like down jackets, sleeping bags, and poles from local shops at affordable rates.

Keep your daypack light with only essentials (water, snacks, jacket). The porter will carry your main bag, usually limited to 10–15 kg.

Trekker Reviews

Freya Ritter (Germany)

Verified

"I really enjoyed the ABC (Annapurna base Camp) trek. It was a nice way with beautiful, different landscape during the whole trek. We could see the rhododendron in flower. We walked together with a friendly, well experienced guide who could always answer our questions also I like the joking porters very much. The accommodation always was well chosen by the guide and the standard was higher than I expected. Thank you very much to the guide & the porters and the organization of the trek done by the travel agency. "

Pirjo, Katja and Kimmo (Finland)

Verified

"Alpine Adventure Club arranged an amazing Annapurna Base Camp trek and a mountain flight to Mt. Everest after our original Everest Base Camp flights were canceled. Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara were comfortable, and all arrangements went smoothly. The team took great care of us throughout. Our only issue was a rapid altitude gain, causing mild altitude sickness, so we recommend a slower ascent. Thanks to Binod, Bishnu, Uttam, Badri, and Ramesh for the excellent service."

Anke, sigrun & Burkhard (Germany)

Verified

"Our trek began with cancelled Lukla flights, but Alpine Adventure Club quickly adapted our itinerary, sending us to Pokhara for the Annapurna Base Camp trek instead. The journey was incredible—lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, comfortable lodges, and a cheerful, experienced guide and porters who kept our spirits high. Though we had some rain, we were lucky to enjoy clear, breathtaking views at ABC. A well-organized, memorable adventure filled with natural beauty and great company!"

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Annapurna Base Camp Trek

5.0 (26 reviews in Tripadvisor)

Recommended by 99% of travelers

Save

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Key Facts at a Glance

Location
Nepal
Region
Annapurna
Duration
14 days
Group Size
Min. 1 Pax
Max Elevation
4,130 m
Difficulty
Moderate
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Best Seasons
Spring and Autumn
Start Point
Kathmandu
End Point
Kathmandu
Permit
Required
Food
Three Meals/Day

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview

For the trek, you’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs NPR 3,000 (approximately $23 USD). The TIMS card is no longer required as of 2026.

Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Surrounded by around 14 peaks whose height is above 7,000 m, which include Annapurna I , Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri I, Hiunchuli, and Tharpu Chuli.
Panoramic views throughout the trek and an impressive sunrise in Poon Hill.
Chance to experience authentic Gurung and Magar culture in their villages.
Experience local food like dal bhat, momo, thukpa, etc. along the trail.
Tea Houses and lodges throughout the trek, so no need for camping.
Natural Hot Springs in Jhinu Dadha provide mid-trip relaxation.
Safer, accessible, and more affordable than the Everest Base Camp Trek but equally rewarding and iconic.
Diverse Landscape: Rhododendron Forest, alpine meadows, glaciers, pine oak tree, terraced farmland, and snowfields.