Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Complete Guide (2025)
Introduction
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC Trek) is one of the most popular and stunning treks in Nepal, second only to Everest Base Camp in fame. This journey takes trekkers through diverse landscapes — from terraced fields and dense rhododendron forests to high alpine scenery — culminating at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters), surrounded by towering Himalayan giants.
It’s a moderately challenging trek suitable for many fitness levels and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure without extreme altitude risks like the Everest region.
Trek Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Nayapul or Kimche (after drive from Pokhara) |
| Ending Point | Nayapul or Siwai |
| Max Elevation | Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) |
| Total Duration | 7–12 days (standard) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Accommodation | Tea houses (local lodges) |
| Primary Attraction | Annapurna Massif, Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) |
Standard 10-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary (Detailed)
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)
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2-hour drive to Nayapul, then trek 4–5 hours to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village.
Day 2: Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2,170m)
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Steep ascent and descent through lush forests and terraced fields.
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Spectacular views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South.
Day 3: Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310m)
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Descend to Chhomrong Khola, then ascend through bamboo and rhododendron forests.
Day 4: Bamboo to Deurali (3,200m)
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Steady ascent through lush greenery, occasional waterfalls.
Day 5: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m)
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Pass through Machapuchare Base Camp first.
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Final push to ABC, with jaw-dropping 360° views of Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machapuchare.
Day 6: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
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After a glorious sunrise, begin descent back to Bamboo.
Day 7: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m) – Hot Springs
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Relax at the famous natural hot springs near Jhinu Danda!
Day 8: Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
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Final trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara.
Optional Add-ons: Poon Hill (Ghorepani) extension for epic sunrise views.
Difficulty & Challenges
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Physical Endurance: Moderate trekking with some steep ascents and descents.
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Altitude: Milder compared to Everest treks but altitude sickness is still possible above 3,000m.
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Weather Variability: Rainy trails during monsoon season.
Training Tip: Build endurance through hiking, cardio exercises, and strengthening your legs and core.
Best Time to Trek Annapurna Base Camp
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | Blooming rhododendrons, clear skies | Busy trails |
| Autumn (Sept–Nov) | Stable weather, great mountain views | Cold mornings/nights |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Less crowded, snowy beauty | Very cold, snow can block trails |
| Monsoon (Jun–Aug) | Lush scenery | Heavy rain, slippery trails, leeches |
Permits Required
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 (~$25 USD)
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TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – NPR 2,000 (~$17 USD)
Both permits can be easily arranged in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Tea Houses
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Cozy local lodges along the trail.
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Basic facilities: shared bathrooms, hot showers (extra charge), warm common rooms.
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Typical food: Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread, momo, pasta, pancakes, soups.
Tip: Higher up, food prices rise due to portage costs.
Essential Packing List for ABC Trek
Clothing:
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Warm fleece or down jacket
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Waterproof jacket and pants
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Base layers (thermal)
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Comfortable trekking trousers
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Gloves, hat, buff
Gear:
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Trekking poles
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Comfortable trekking boots (broken in)
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Sleeping bag (0°C to -10°C rated)
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Daypack (30-40L)
Other Essentials:
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Sunscreen, sunglasses
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Water purification tablets
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Headlamp with batteries
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Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
Cost Breakdown (Approximate)
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Permits (ACAP + TIMS) | $42 |
| Guide (Optional but recommended) | $20–30/day |
| Porter (Optional) | $15–20/day |
| Food & Accommodation | $25–40/day |
| Transport (Pokhara–Nayapul) | $20 round-trip |
Total Estimate: $600–1,000 depending on whether you trek independently or through an agency.
Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
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Stunning views of Annapurna I (8,091m) — the world’s 10th highest mountain.
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Magical sunrise from ABC, illuminating snow-clad peaks.
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Authentic Gurung and Magar culture experiences.
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Healing soak at Jhinu Hot Springs after days of trekking.
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Walking through thick forests, river valleys, and rugged alpine landscapes.
Important Tips for Success
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Acclimatize well: Take it slow, even if altitude sickness risk is lower.
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Hydrate and eat well to maintain energy.
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Start early each day to avoid afternoon clouds.
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Carry cash (Nepali rupees) for food, water, and accommodations.
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Respect local customs — always greet with a cheerful “Namaste”!
Comparison: Everest Base Camp vs Annapurna Base Camp
| Feature | Everest Base Camp | Annapurna Base Camp |
|---|---|---|
| Altitude | 5,364m | 4,130m |
| Trek Duration | 12–16 days | 7–12 days |
| Difficulty | Harder (higher altitude) | Moderate |
| Culture | Sherpa Buddhist culture | Gurung, Magar cultures |
| Scenery | Glacier landscapes | Forests + Mountains |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is perfect for trekkers seeking a moderate challenge packed with drama, beauty, and cultural immersion. It’s an ideal trek for both first-timers and experienced hikers who want majestic Himalayan views without facing the extreme altitudes of Everest.