About Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m / 13,550 ft) is one of the most iconic trekking destinations in the Nepal Himalayas. The Annapurna Sanctuary is ringed by a vast wall of permanently snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli and Annapurna South. This world-class route rewards you with sweeping glacial-valley panoramas, the warm hospitality of traditional Gurung villages, and a journey through strikingly varied landscapes, from subtropical forest to high alpine terrain.
Iconic Highlights
Annapurna Sanctuary & the Giant Amphitheater
Annapurna Base Camp sits inside a natural amphitheater of Himalayan giants rising 7,000 to 8,000 meters. Standing here gives you a breathtaking 360-degree view in the heart of the eternal snow and ice.
Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak)
With its iconic summit shaped like a fish's tail, Machhapuchhre is one of the most striking sights you'll see along much of the trail to base camp.
Jhinu Danda Natural Hot Springs
After descending from base camp, soak your tired muscles in the natural hot springs on the banks of the Modi Khola river.
Traditional Gurung Villages
Walk through charming Gurung and Magar villages with traditional architecture, surrounded by terraced rice fields and lush rhododendron forest.
Route Overview
- The journey starts in Kathmandu, continues to Pokhara, then goes by road (jeep or bus) to the Jhinu Bridge area.
- Trekking begins at Jhinu Bridge and heads to the village of Chhomrong.
- The ascent continues through a series of rest stops, such as Himalaya, until you reach the high point of the trek at Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).
- The descent returns via Bamboo, then continues down to Jhinu Danda before you drive back to Pokhara.
Best Time to Trek
Autumn (September–November), best in October: Clear skies after the rainy season, far-reaching views and dry trails. This is the most recommended time for the ABC trek, with stable weather, excellent visibility and ideal trail conditions. After the monsoon, the air is clean and the snow-capped peaks stand out against fresh green landscapes, with warm, sunny days.
Daytime 5–15°C (41–59°F), nighttime around -5°C (23°F).
Spring (March–May), best in April: Stable weather, blooming rhododendrons and friendly temperatures. In this season the rhododendron forests in the lower Annapurna region flower, painting the trail in pink, red and white. Skies are usually clear and the mountain views sharp, though clouds sometimes roll in on afternoons at higher altitudes.
Daytime 7–17°C (45–63°F), nighttime around -5°C (23°F).
Winter (December–February): Cold weather, fewer trekkers and snow-covered scenery. With careful preparation, the right gear and an experienced guide, winter trekking is still possible.
Daytime 0–7°C (32–45°F), nighttime -10 to -15°C (14 to 5°F).
Monsoon (June–August): Lush green hills, heavy rain and reduced visibility. During these months rainfall is intense, trails are muddy and slippery, and leeches are common in the lower forest.
Lower elevations 10–20°C (50–68°F).
Good to Know Before You Book
A Moderate Trek, but Real Altitude
The trek is rated moderate and needs no technical climbing skills, but you will sleep at up to 4,130 m (13,550 ft) after several consecutive days of walking. Good fitness and some training beforehand will make a big difference.
Getting to Kathmandu
Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the meeting point for this trip. International flights are not included, so you are free to choose your own dates and airline. Nepal Standard Time is UTC+5:45.
Visa & Documents
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. Most travelers can get a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport (fees are listed under "What's Not Included"). Please check the latest entry requirements for your nationality before you fly.
Food: Vegetarian Above Chhomrong
Beyond Chhomrong we recommend vegetarian meals, as fresh meat is hard to get at altitude. If you have halal or other dietary requirements, contact us before the trip so we can talk it through.
Pack for the Cold
In winter, nights can drop to -10 to -15°C (14 to 5°F). Layering is essential, and a down jacket can be rented in Kathmandu. See the packing checklist below.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu- Altitude: 1,350 m
- Welcome to Nepal! When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, the Arga Adventure ID team will meet you and take you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Rest and recover after your flight. In the evening, you are free to wander the lively Thamel district, browse the local markets or enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner.
- Overnight: Kathmandu
Day 2
Drive to Pokhara- Altitude: 900 m | Distance: 200 km by road
- After breakfast, travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus along the Prithvi Highway, with views of rivers, hills and countryside along the way. On arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time to explore the lakeside area.
- Overnight: Pokhara
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3
Drive to Jhinu Bridge, then trek to Chhomrong- Altitude: 1,951 m | Trekking time: 3 hours
- After breakfast, drive to Jhinu Bridge (about 4 hours). Begin trekking by crossing a suspension bridge, then climb steadily to the village of Chhomrong, the last permanent Gurung settlement on the route to Annapurna Base Camp.
- Overnight: Chhomrong
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4
Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya- Altitude: 2,920 m | Trekking time: 6–7 hours
- Trek through rhododendron and orchid forest. Descend a stone staircase to cross the Chhomrong Khola on a suspension bridge, then climb to Sinuwa. Continue through Bamboo to reach Himalaya, where you will spend the night.
- Overnight: Himalaya
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5
Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)- Altitude: 4,130 m | Trekking time: 6–7 hours
- Climb to Deurali and continue to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Take in the stunning snow-capped peaks before crossing moraine terrain to Annapurna Base Camp. Take your time to explore and admire Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre and the surrounding mountains.
- Overnight: Annapurna Base Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6
Trek from Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) to Bamboo- Altitude: 2,345 m | Trekking time: 6–8 hours
- Descend from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo via Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali and Himalaya, enjoying the scenery on the way back.
- Overnight: Bamboo
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7
Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, then drive to Pokhara- Altitude: 1,780 m | Trek: 5 hours | Drive: 3 hours
- Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda via Chhomrong. After a short rest, descend to Jhinu Bridge and drive back to Pokhara. In the evening, enjoy the lively Lakeside area of Pokhara with its cafes, restaurants and shops.
- Overnight: Pokhara
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 8
Free day in Pokhara- Enjoy a relaxed day in Pokhara. Optional activities include paragliding, bungee jumping, zip-lining and ultralight flights (at extra cost). In the afternoon, visit the International Mountain Museum or take a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake.
- Note: If you would like to join any optional activities, please let ARGA ADVENTURE ID know in advance so we can arrange the necessary bookings.
- Overnight: Pokhara
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, Farewell Dinner- Altitude: 1,400 m | Distance: 200 km by road / 25 minutes by air
- After breakfast, travel back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time for shopping or relaxing. In the evening, join the trekking team for a farewell dinner and celebrate a great journey.
- Overnight: Kathmandu
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 10
Airport Transfer and Departure- After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
- Meals: Breakfast
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Private vehicle airport transfers
- 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara (twin sharing, breakfast included)
- Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
- Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with a different menu each day, plus a cup of tea
- Trekking permits, TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System), trekking insurance and all required documents
- Tourist bus transport Kathmandu – Pokhara round trip
- Jeep/bus transport Pokhara – Jhinu round trip
- Experienced, licensed, English-speaking mountain guide
- 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
- Assistant guide for groups of more than 6
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag (to be returned after the trek)
- Basic first aid kit
- Farewell dinner at a well-known Nepali restaurant, with a cultural dance performance
- Trekking certificate
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Flights to Kathmandu
- Travel insurance
- Nepal visa:
- 15 days USD 30
- 30 days USD 50
- 90 days USD 125
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara (except the farewell dinner in Kathmandu)
- Personal expenses
- Extra services during the trip (phone calls, Wi-Fi, laundry, bar bills, battery charging, additional porters, bottled water)
- Tips for guides, porters & drivers
- Any costs and expenses not listed as included
A Note on Food
During the trek, you can order from the lodge menu each day. For health and safety reasons, we do not recommend eating meat beyond Chhomrong, and meat dishes are not included in the package. At altitude, fresh meat is hard to get. We suggest choosing vegetarian meals, which are generally fresher and safer on the trail.
TREKKING PACKING CHECKLIST
Clothing
- Base layers (thermal top & bottom)
- Trekking T-shirts (3–4, quick-dry)
- Fleece jacket (warm layer)
- Down jacket (can be rented in Kathmandu)
- Waterproof/windproof shell jacket & pants
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
Head and Hands
- Sun hat
- Wool hat/beanie
- Buff/neck warmer
- Gloves (insulated inner + outer)
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Camp shoes/sandals
- Trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
- Gaiters (optional)
- Snow spikes (required in snow season)
Gear
- Daypack (30–40 L)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Water bottles (2 L total) + water purification tablets/filter
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm with SPF
- Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, quick-dry towel
- First aid kit + personal medication (including altitude medication if prescribed)
Electronics
- Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)
- Camera/phone + charger
- Universal travel adapter (Nepal uses plug types C, D and M)
Documents & Money
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months) & permits (TIMS + National Park Entry)
- Travel insurance covering high altitude & emergency evacuation
- Cash in Nepalese rupees (no ATMs during the trek)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost?
The package price depends on the number of travelers. The price table on this page shows rates in US dollars (USD). International flights to Kathmandu are not included.
Do I need a visa for Nepal?
Most travelers can get a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport: 15 days USD 30, 30 days USD 50 and 90 days USD 125. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months, and check the latest entry requirements for your nationality before you fly. Choose a visa length that fits your travel plans; this trip takes 10 days.
Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek suitable for beginners?
The trek is rated moderate. You walk for several days in a row and sleep at altitude, with Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m (13,550 ft), so good fitness and some training beforehand will make the trip more enjoyable. We recommend speaking to your doctor about altitude sickness (AMS) and any preventive medication.
When is the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
October (autumn) and April (spring) are the best months, with stable weather and clear mountain views. June to August is the monsoon season: trails are muddy and slippery, visibility drops and leeches are common in the lower forest.
What about vegetarian and other dietary needs on the trek?
During the trek you order from the lodge menu each day. We do not recommend eating meat beyond Chhomrong because fresh meat is hard to get at altitude; vegetarian dishes are fresher and safer. If you have halal or other dietary requirements, please contact us before the trip.
Is insurance included?
Trekking insurance is included in the package, but travel insurance is not. We recommend carrying travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
What can I do in Pokhara on the free day?
On your free day in Pokhara you can try optional activities such as paragliding, bungee jumping, zip-lining or an ultralight flight (at extra cost), visit the International Mountain Museum, or take a boat ride on Phewa Lake. Let Arga Adventure know in advance so we can arrange the bookings.
Trek Package Prices
Meeting point:
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Prices are per person in US dollars (USD). Please confirm the final price with us on WhatsApp.