Annapurna Base Camp Trekking - 10 Days

annapurna region
annapurna basecamp
annapurna view
At a Glance
based on 13 reviews
Duration10 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp
Group Size2-10
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Travel StyleTrek
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

Otherwise known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, the journey to the Annapurna Base Camp is an adventurous walk through not only naturally rich but also culturally rich land inside the Annapurna Conservation Area.

The trekking trail of Annapurna Base Camp follows the winding roads along the bank of the Trishuli River in the first half, and later on, the Marshyangdi enters the surpassing beauty of flora and fauna, passing by dense woods of oak, rhododendrons, and bamboo in the lower region and alpine vegetation in the upper Himalayas.

Therefore, the Annapurna Base Camp expedition is an opportunity that provides you with everything from the sky-towering peak, lush forests, and enriching culture to be called the true Himalayan classic tea house voyage, suitable for everyone from beginners to professional climbers.

Throughout this beautiful trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, you will notice the stunning landscapes, varied climatic zones, and lovely dwellings of locals, along with the otherworldly vistas of numerous peaks, which look more refined and extensive from different vantage points of Poonhill, and the Base Camp of Annapurna itself.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside valleys between the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, and another tourist paradise, Pokhara.
  • View the magnificent backdrop of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, including Machapuchare, in the crystal-clear water of Phewa Lake.
  • Savor a jaw-dropping sun setting over panoramic mountain peaks from Ghorepani and Poonhill.
  • Venture deep into the culturally fascinating and charming traditional mountain villages of the Annapurna region.
  • Treat yourself to a relaxing hot spring bath at Jhinu Danda.
  • Appreciate the warm hospitality of the Himalayan tribal people of Gurung and Magar.
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, Gangapurna, Khangsar, Hiunchuli, and many more.
  • Get close to the tenth highest peak in the world, Mt. Annapurna (8,091m), etc.

What to expect during the journey to the Annapurna Base Camp?

The 10-day journey to the base camp of Mt. Annapurna begins with a quick drive to Nayapul, from where the trek officially commences through the settlements of locals dotted with vibrant prayer flags, chhortens, ancient monasteries, and stupas, adding much to the divinity of the landscapes and bestowing blessings upon you for a prosperous voyage.

As you ascend higher, the amazing scenery will excite you even more as you pass by the villages showcasing the mixed culture of the ethnic communities of Thakalis, Magars, and Gurungs following Buddhism and Hinduism. These Himalayan lifestyles of the locals are truly inspiring because they have preserved their unique costumes and culture left behind by their forefathers.

The brightly gleaming snow-clad peaks in the pristine blue sky with scattered cotton-like clouds fascinate each trekking aspirant, which seems unbelievable at first sight. Where you can expect:

Never-ending panoramic sights of mountains

The Annapurna trekking region where the Annapurna Base Camp expedition takes place is dominated by the majestic peak of the tenth tallest mountain in the globe, Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), that you can see even before you begin to head for the trekking trail from Pokhara. 

Furthermore, our 10-day venture to the Annapurna Base Camp provides you with wonderful, never-before-seen views of other snow-covered mountains such as Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Machapuchare (6,993m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), including Annapurna I (98,091m), Annapurna II (7,219m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), and Annapurna South (7,219m).

Astonishing Sunrise and Sunset views from Poonhill

Located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, Poonhill, at an altitude of 3,210 m above sea level, is a famous lofty hill serving as one of the best viewpoints to relish the 360-degree view of the surrounding heavenly mountains. 

Watching the sunrise and sunset from here is a widely preferred activity amongst trekkers and travelers, as the Poonhill opens a unique perspective of the entire Annapurna region, including the complete view of the Annapurna ranges and Dhaulagiri. 

Due to its easier access than the Annapurna Base Camp, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is on the bucket list of many adventurers who desire to see the more extensive and exclusive scenic sight of the whole Annapurna and its peaks, along with several other unnamed ranges. 

Some of the renowned mountains seen from the Poonhill are the scenically phenomenal Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri captured as the background of the photograph.

Admirable traditional life in Ghorepani

One of the noteworthy Gurung and Magar villages of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Ghoreapani, is established at an elevation of 2,874 m, which provides a comprehensive insight into the daily customs of the remote areas of Nepal.

The locals from here have preserved and given continuation to their distinctive way of life. They possess their own traditional dances, rituals, attires, festivals, and dialects that visitors would not be able to help to fall in love with while enjoying the welcoming nature and hospitality of the people from Ghorepani.

It would be holistic to watch the villagers engage themselves in agriculture while roaming around the tightly packed alleyways in between typically styled houses made up of stone and wood. Crafting and pottery are also part of their everyday lives, along with paying respect and visiting shrines.

To conclude, Ghorepani is not just a hub for trekkers and travelers but also a spiritually fulfilling destination as you move along the Buddhist stupas and Mani walls festooned with colorful prayer flags.

Soak yourself in the natural hot spring of Jhinu Danda

Jhinu Danda, at an elevation of 1,780 m (5,840 ft), is a tiny settlement on a ridge of the Annapurna trekking region overlooking the Modi Khola River, which is a haven for Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp trekkers to take a break and unwind.

The communal and private natural hot spring of Jhinu Danda is famous for taking a rejuvenating bath, offering a welcome respite for sore muscles after days of journey to the Annapurna Base Camp, as they are naturally soothing and have healing qualities.

If you are seeking a more private and intimate experience, the private hot spring of the teahouses is just made for you in a natural setting surrounded by lush greenery, with the overlook at the below-flowing river surrounding hills and mountains providing a better tranquil ambiance for relaxation. Nothing beats up Jhinu Danda and its hot spring to cap off the trek to the Annapurna Base Camp.

The top-notch serenity of the Annapurna Conservation Area 

Along the 10-day adventure to Annapurna Base Camp, you will be walking through one of the highly protected realms of Nepal to preserve the region's original culture, tradition, fragile Himalayan ecosystem, and natural diversity, called Annapurna Conservation Area.

Since the area is home to a vast array of flora and fauna and belongs to conserved land, it assures you of the raw wilderness untouched and untainted by any modernity en route to the Annapurna Base Camp pilgrimage.

The dense forest of oak, pine, and rhododendrons, with bamboo dotted in between, is picturesque and one of the unique features that is visually appealing and pleasing to walk through. In spring, the whole region blooms fully in various colors, enhancing the scenery ten times more than ever.

Furthermore, the Annapurna Conservation Area, covering 7,629 square kilometers, is inhabited by 518 species of avians and 348 species of butterflies, forming a natural melody of the Himalayas that can be heard throughout the region en route to the Annapurna Base Camp. 

Annapurna Base Camp Itinerary

The Annapurna Base Camp 10-day trip starts from the moment you have landed in the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu. The essential permits would have been ready while you were driven to Pokhara and transported to the hotel for the day.

The very next day, you will be boarding a local bus up to Nayapool, from where the hike traditionally begins, and taking a day break at Ulleri. From Ulleri, this 10-day itinerary for the Annapurna Base Camp expedition stops at Ghorepani and eventually at Tadapani to climb the Poonhill for an extraordinary sunrise above the nearby mountains.

After spending a joyous four nights at Tadapani, Chomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali, you will visit the major highlight of the overall Annapurna region, Annapurna Base Camp, to witness the surreal dawn from 4,130m above sea level, which is definitely a dream of each adventurer who believes in “chasing angles or fleeing demons, go to the mountains” by Jeffrey Rasley.

The following morning, after waking up to the ethereal beauty of the Annapurna ranges, you will head back to Bamboo. From Bamboo, Jhinu Danda is traced to let your muscles loosen up a bit in the natural hot spring, which has been found to have a health benefit that can effectively cure any sort of skin ailments.

Then, the next day calls the drive to the tourist hub of Pokhara before a final day ride to Kathmandu on the 10th day. This itinerary from Ammonite Adventure & Treks Pvt. Ltd. is amazingly flexible you can be customized according to your needs and preferences and we can assist you efficiently. 

We suggest you add a few extra days, which may be 2-3 days, rather than cutting out the Annapurna Base Camp Trek days from the 10-day itinerary to acclimate well to the weather and climatic conditions of the country of hills and mountains, Nepal.

Annapurna Base Camp 10 Days Trek Cost

The package cost to go on the Annapurna Base Camp Tour for 10 days can range from USD 850 to USD 1,500 or more depending upon the size of your trekking group, route, and time, along with the duration, as the 10-day itinerary to go on the Annapurna Base Camp voyage is customizable as per your needs and preferences.

The minimum number of trekkers to go the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is 2 since the banning of free individual trekkers in Nepal on April 1, 2023, and it can be costlier than doing it with a larger group while sharing the expense and tales of the adventure. These are just the estimated package costs. Ammonite Adventure & Treks Pvt. Ltd. is offering a special discounted price on 10 days of Annapurna Base Camp trekking with a group of more than 10 members.

This package undoubtedly pays for required permits, transportation used during the trek, food, accommodation, guides, and porters, along with their everyday salaries, travel insurance, and essentials. On your request, we can arrange you more upgraded services on meals and rooms, but you must understand that it will cost you a little more than the usual Annapurna Base Camp package, along with additional stays if you extend the itinerary.

Itinerary

Today, you will take a tourist bus to Pokhara after breakfast so that you can begin the trek to Annapurna Base Camp quickly. The drive away is scenic, taking in the breathtaking scenery followed by lush woods, gushing rivers, and terraced farms and fields below the hills.

The first evening in Pokhara is equally stunning while you have dinner beside the glistening water of Phewa Lake, which presents you with a reflecting backdrop of majestic mountains.

Max. Altitude: 1,400mMeal: BreakfastAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel

The journey of the day starts with a hearty breakfast on the shores of Phewa Lake, followed by a short drive to Nayapul, from where you will begin to hike to Ulleri, passing by Birethanti along the bank of Bhurungdi Khola.

The path is comparatively off-beaten and goes via Tikhedhunga and finally to Ulleri, proceeding forward via the villages of Sudame and Hile.

Max. Altitude: 2,050mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

The trail of the day is a gradual climb while enjoying the snowy peaks of Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare, moving ahead by the forest of rhododendrons across the roaring rivers and chilly springs, taking you to Ghorepani.

Perched on a ridgeline, the town of Ghorepani offers extended views of the Dhaulagiri ranges, Tukuche, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, and many others, including Machhapuchhre.

Max. Altitude: 2,860m / 9,385ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

Who would not enjoy seeing the sunrise, especially when it radiates over the entire Himalayan ranges of the Annapurna region? Therefore, the trek of the day to rest at Tadapani begins early in the morning before sunrise to see the changing array of colors, from shades of pink and orange to golden hues, contrasting largely with the fully white chain of mountain ranges.

Poonhill is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. So, after shooting as many shots as possible, you will traverse through Deurali and Banthanti to arrive at Tadapani to call it a day.

Max. Altitude: 3,210m / 10,525ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

From Tadapani, the route descends steeply into a thicket forest of rhododendrons, which later rises to the next green hill ridge, where a tiny Gurung hamlet is perched on a lovely terraced hillside.

It is comparatively a short hiking day lasting for 4-5 hours amidst the mythical beauty of the Annapurna range and Mt. Fishtail

Max. Altitude: 2,630mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

Following breakfast at the lodge, your trail from Chomrong traverses the Chhomrong Khola and descends stone stairs to go to Sinuwa village. Continuing the gentle climb uphill from here takes you to Bamboo at last through the deep forest of bamboo and rhododendrons to get dinner.

Max. Altitude: 2,300m/ 7,546 feetMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

Yet another calm day to head off to Deurali from Bamboo through forests of bamboo, creating a comparatively cooler and refreshing trekking ambiance during hot summer days, which opens up after a couple of hours and climbs through green slopes to witness the glacial lake below.

On a steep ascent to Hinku Cave, crossing a suspension bridge, and passing by a waterfall, you will notice a quite tougher trail with the barren surroundings, and finally to Deurali.

Max. Altitude: 3,174mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

The much-awaited grand day is here when you will be walking in close proximity to the Annapurna glaciers past the two avalanching tracks, following a small path, widening the overall views over the cliff, and initiating a less steep route.

From here the sanctuary’s gate is clearly visible when you head northwest soo arriving at the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) rewarding you with the most stunning and closer view of Annapurna I, III, and south, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhare.

Max. Altitude: 4,130mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

This morning, you will wake up earlier than other days to witness the exceptional sun rising over the Annapurna ranges. After spending a few hours with the awe-inspiring mountains, you will have breakfast and then hike down the same route, following the Modi Khola (1,700m). 

After traversing the Modi Khola around the rhododendron forests for several hours, you will have made it to Bamboo in approximately 7-8 hours in a descending manner. In your spare time, you can take a quick tour and later on, spend the night in Bamboo’s teahouse.

Max. Altitude: 4,130mMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

The retracing of the route continues through the steep descent of Bamboo, dropping significantly by Sinuwa, Kuldi Ghar, and Chomrong early so that you can take a relaxing dip at the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda, which looks more enticing than it did at the beginning of the trek. 

From Chomrong, it is around a thousand steps to ascend and then descend to Jhinu Danda to have lunch and savor the warm water, of course!

Max. Altitude: 2,310 m / 7578 ftMeal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local Tea houses and lodges

Throughout the entire trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, it is one of the easier days when you will drive back to Pokhara from Jhinu Danda. Therefore, make the most of the mountains, verdant hills, and rice paddies.

After settling into the cozy city of Pokhara, you will have time to browse the town and unwind by the lake with the majestic backdrops of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

Max. Altitude: 1,760 m / 5,774 ftMeal: BreakfastAccommodation: Three-Star Hotel

Today, you will drive or fly back to Kathmandu via the Pritivi Highway, passing through lush hills, rivers, and several tiny Nepalese communities while you wave goodbye to the massive Himalayan giants, including Fishtail (Macchapuchare). 

From the tourist bus park, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, you can stroll around Thamel and shop for souvenirs to take back home.

Max. Altitude: 1,400mMeal: BreakfastAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel
Customize Trip
Trip Service Details
Included
  • Three-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara as per the itinerary. 
  • Comfortable lodging during your trek days to the Annapurna Base Camp.
  • Local bus, private jeep, or car fare is used en route.
  • All three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek days. 
  • English-speaking Government-licensed professional trekking guide and map.
  • Travel insurance, trekking gear, and everyday salary, along with other necessary equipment for all the Nepalese staff including guides and porters. 
  • Garbage deposit and other necessary fees.
  • All necessary permit documents such as Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fees and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Excluded
  • International flight tickets to and from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu. 
  • Travel insurance for clients that must provide high-altitude coverage in case of a medical emergency or any other unforeseen circumstances. 
  • Lunch, dinner, and extra-night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara outside of the itinerary.
  • Personal expenditures such as drinks, snacks, personal shopping, phone calls, internet data, or souvenirs during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • Porter can carry a maximum weight of shared 25 kg between two trekkers.
  • Guide and Porter's gratitude is a lot appreciated.
Add-ons & Options

Ammonite Adventure and Treks offers some add-ons and options, It will be helpful to plan your next trip.

Experienced Porter Service:

Our experienced porter will manage your gear and equipment. One porter can be shared between two persons; they can carry a maximum of 25 kg.

Dates & Availability
Starts:December 09, 2024Ends:December 18, 2024
PriceUS$700
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Starts:December 15, 2024Ends:December 24, 2024
PriceUS$700
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Starts:December 23, 2024Ends:January 01, 2025
PriceUS$700
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Starts:December 29, 2024Ends:January 07, 2025
PriceUS$700
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Additional Info

Permits required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For the Annapurna Camp Trek, you will need two permits, which are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card.

At Ammonite Adventure & Treks Pvt. Ltd., we will make sure to get these permits beforehand for you. The 10-day package cost to the Annapurna Base Camp does cover the permit fee, which separately costs USD 20 for the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and USD 30 per person for the TIMS card.

Both are payable in Nepalese currency only, where the trekkers who are SAARC nationals can get the permits at a discounted price.

Meals during Journey to the Annapurna Base Camp

While you are in Kathmandu, lunch and dinner are not included in our package, and you are free to eat anything that you prefer. Thamel is specifically famous for its eateries, while the numerous cafes, pubs, clubs, and restaurants serve national and international cuisines.

Similarly, en route to the classic tea house trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, you can get typical Nepali, Tibetan, and globe menus, which can get limited to the more nutritious Dal-Bhat-Tarkari, an everyday Nepali dish usually with white rice, lentil soup, and leafy or seasonal vegetables. Worth a try!

Varieties of eggs, curries, tea, and coffee are available along with Tibetan bread, pancakes, and pizza, although the taste might differ for breakfast. However, we suggest you stick to vegetarian Dal Bhat and Tarkari, as they tend to nourish you and provide adequate protein and carbohydrates required for the high Himalayan hikes.

What kind of accommodation is available during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Like every other high-altitude trekking trail in Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp route also features a mountain lodge called Tea House, which is modest, open, and maintained by locals, and where you will be provided with bedding and meals.

The spring and autumn seasons are the busiest times of the year when you might have to share the rooms with two to five people alongside the Asian squat-style toilets, which is still a privileged option in such a remote area. Fine enough to ensure your comfortable stay in the local lodges and guest houses. 

As per Kathmandu, we will be providing you with the best three-star hotel, including breakfast.

Drinking Water Condition on the way to Annapurna Base Camp

The teahouse and local lodges often provide safe, either boiled or treated, drinking water. Bottled water is also purchasable; however, it is not recommended as we are guided by the policies of ecotourism.

The rising concern due to plastic garbage is much discouraged, and hence it is better to get a thermos flask that is refillable at various stopping places for a minimal fee. Water from natural sources seems drinkable, but one must not do so without treating it properly.

Best time to go for the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Arguably, the spring period from March ending in April and the autumn season lasting from September to November are the best times to go on an adventurous journey to the Annapurna Base Camp.

These are travelers' choices of time of the year to voyage to Annapurna Base Camp, which does not emphasize the winter and summer treks being rewarding upon being geared well and prepared in advance.

You might be one of the first to witness the unique aspects of the whole Annapurna region in the summer and winter.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The 10 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek falls under the moderately difficult category, offering both challenging and easy-going paths on the hiking route that can be cracked by anyone without prior experience. 

Physically fit and healthy beginners would definitely love the Annapurna Base Camp Trip, where some prior running, swimming, and other hiking preparedness can aid a lot in preparing yourself for some rugged parts. 

In the meantime, one must be well informed and aware of acute mountain sickness, which is common on high-altitude treks like the Annapurna Base Camp, which may not cause any problems if one acclimates well and stays hydrated.

Must you hire guides and porters to go Annapurna Base Camp Expedition

In the Himalayas, nothing can be predicted, be it weather or anything else; it can go pretty easily out of control. Therefore, yes, you must hire a guide for safe navigation of the route to the Annapurna Base Camp, where local guides can add much to the cultural immersion, bridging the gap between you and the Himalayan communities.

In case of an emergency as well, the license guides are very handy to provide you with instant assistance. We are offering government-certified and trained guides with well-versed English communication skills included in the 10-day package cost to the Annapurna Base Camp, including a potter.

Please note that a potter in Nepal is allowed to carry a total of 20–24 kg and can be shared amongst two hikers. Therefore, we advise you to pack only the absolute necessities.

What to pack for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Since the 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek is comparatively a short expedition, you might not need to pack much depending on the season you are trekking to. However, make sure you are carrying all the necessary items and check before officially beginning the trek.

Here are some of the must-pack trekking gear, regardless of the time of year you are traveling to the Annapurna Base Camp:

  • Trekking boots, socks, and pants
  • Thermal underwear
  • Fleece, insulated, or down jacket
  • Gloves and hat
  • Sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen creams
  • Water bottles and purifying tablets
  • Extra snacks and energy bars
  • Toiletries etc.
FAQs

Well, if you are thinking of bringing one from your home country, it might not be such a great idea because you can actually shop for most of the good-quality trekking gear and equipment in Kathmandu city at a reasonable price.

First of all, do not panic at all! You can anticipate spotting some of the symptoms for sure. However, if it gets severe do not ascend further at all. Let your body recover well even before descending to the lower altitude level.

No, you would not be able to find ATMs as soon as you leave the Kathmandu and Pokhara city behind. So, we advise you to complete the necessary currency exchange by Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Children above seven years and onwards, healthy individuals with some proper preparation and strong determination, can successfully complete the 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek. So, we can say that it really does not have the exact age criteria. All you need is an unswayed adventurous spirit and correct guidance.

Yes, we understand the importance of your safety and comfort, whether you are a male or female trekker. By chance, if you are a female traveler and looking forward to getting a female companion, it is possible, and we provide the best one. Born and brought up in the Himalayas of Nepal,

The answer is yes. However, due to its brutality in comparison to some other similar eight-thousanders, such as K2 (8,611 m), it is often backlisted, while its base camp at 4,130m grants the equivalent sense of achievement and beauty.

It is advised to keep your expectations very realistic. As an isolated countryside, of course, it is quite devoid of the super-fast cellular network and speedy wifi; however, they are provided at several tea houses at an additional cost and do the job of keeping you update with your loved ones.

As an alternative, you can get a 4G NTC or Ncell SIM card in Kathmandu or Pokhara to access mobile data wherever you get a good signal.

Sing with us. Keep up the pace, take enough rest, and eat the best! These are some secrets to preventing acute mountain sickness that might concern even top-tier mountaineers, along with the endeavor of consuming ample fluids to keep your body hydrated. Make sure to avoid alcohol and any intoxicating substances.

Yes, several tea houses and local lodges facilitate the charging of electronic devices such as cell phones and cameras that will charge you extra but totally reasonable.

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), and various trekking and traveling companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara issue TIMS cards and ACAP. You will not have to worry about it much when choosing one of the services from a reputable organization like Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd.