• Duration19 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Group Size01-20 pax
  • Age range8-70

Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp trek offers a truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and breathtaking mountain views, it's no wonder that it's one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. The trek takes you through charming Gurung ethnic villages and terraced fields, where you can experience the rich local culture and hospitality. The Annapurna ranges, which include peaks over 8,000m and 7,000m, offer an awe-inspiring backdrop to the trek. The sunrise and sunset on Annapurna Massif are particularly mesmerizing, and the iconic Mt. Machapuchhre (Fishtail) is a sight to behold. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a beginner, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is an adventure of a lifetime that should not be missed.

In just 10 days, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Gurung community while trekking through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region. Starting from Ghandruk village, a famous Gurung community nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna Himalayas, you'll be enchanted by the beautiful forests, rivers, and mountains along the trail. As you make your way to Chhomrong, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of Annapurna South and the surrounding peaks. The next day, you'll continue your trek to Dovan, where you'll be rewarded with stunning vistas of Mt. Machapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and other neighboring mountains. The trail will take you through bamboo and rhododendron-filled forests beside the Modi river, and you'll eventually reach MBC before finally reaching ABC. The following day, you'll experience the unforgettable sight of the sunrise over the Annapurna ranges and the neighboring mountains. This 10-day trek is the perfect way to explore the beauty of the Annapurna region while learning about the rich culture and traditions of the Gurung community.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Culture, Tradition and People

As you trek through the Annapurna region, you'll have the opportunity to explore the small, picturesque villages of the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups. These villages offer a glimpse into the local way of life, heritage, and people, and are an integral part of the trekking experience. The warm welcome of the locals, their distinctive culinary preferences, and their festivities are a must-experience for any traveler visiting Nepal and its different parts of the Himalayan region. Among the many villages along the route, Ghandruk and Chhomrong are particularly rich in culture and distinctive traditions. These villages offer a unique perspective on the Gurung and Magar cultures, and are a highlight of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. So be sure to take the time to explore these villages, meet the locals, and learn about their way of life.

Mount Annapurna and Base Camp 

Annapurna Base Camp is an absolutely stunning destination, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and magical scenery of the Himalayan ranges. It's a dream destination for every travel enthusiast looking to experience the wildness of the Himalayas. The base of Annapurna Massif is an incredibly beautiful and panoramic place, offering breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Gangapurna (7,455m), and Annapurna South (7,219m). The entire massif is protected and conserved by the largest conservation area in Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area, which spans 7,629 square kilometers. This area is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard and the Himalayan black bear. Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is not only a thrilling adventure but also an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and conservation efforts of Nepal.

Pokhara, a city of lakes

Pokhara is undoubtedly one of the most popular and famous destinations for trekkers and travelers in Nepal. This beautiful city offers stunning views of some of the highest mountains in the world, including Mt. Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and the Annapurna Massif. Pokhara is also known as the city of lakes, with Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, Rupa Lake, and many other small and larger ones within the city's boundaries. The city boast a wide range of luxury resorts, hotels, and restaurants that reflect international standards of hospitality. The cozy streets in the lakeside area, foodie streets, lights, and hundreds of shops selling trekking and hiking gear are some of the major attractions of Pokhara. The Sarangkot viewpoint, World Peace Stupa, and the Dhampus village are additional must-see attractions that add to your Pokhara experience. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse attractions, Pokhara is a perfect destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both

More highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swyambhu Stupa, and Patan Durbar Square.
  • Unique, distinctive, and beautiful cultures, practices, and values of different ethnic groups.
  • Home of the exotic flora and fauna. 
  • Rhythmic waterfall, lush green forest, rhododendron, and glacial rivers. 
  • Majestic sunrise and sunset views from Annapurna Base Camp over the snowy peaks. 
  • Natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda. 
  • Spend a day in Tourist hub Pokhara and explore around it. 
  • Get a taste of authentic Nepalese cuisine in Pokhara, Kathmandu, and while trekking.

For more info, please click here.

Itinerary

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Upon your arrival in Kathmandu airport, a representative from Relax Getaways will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Later in the day, we will hold a pre-trip meeting at your hotel where your tour and trekking guide will be introduced. This is a chance for you to ask any questions about the upcoming trip and receive a final briefing. If you are unable to attend due to a late arrival, kindly notify us in advance.

Overnight in Kathmandu

  • 3 Star and 5 Star Hotel option
  • 1,300 m/4,265 ft
  • Kathmandu

Early in the Morning, our chaufer will collect you from the hotel and transport you to the Tourist Bus Park. You can choose to have breakfast beforehand or during the trip. This part of the journey will be incredible, with breathtaking scenery of hills and mountains. The stunning landscapes, rivers, forests, and vegetation, among other natural wonders, will create an unforgettable experience.

For transfer to Pokhara, a high-end tourist bus is utilized, whereas for the journey from the drop-off point to Ghandruk, a private jeep will be provided.

Ghandruk is a typical village of the Gurung community, situated atop a hill that provides breathtaking views of mountains and hills. The village boasts traditional-style houses, a clean environment, fresh air, and hospitable locals, making it one of the most stunning destinations on the Annapurna Trekking route.

Overnight at Ghandruk

  • Standard Guest House
  • 7-8 hours’ drive
  • Brekafast Included
  • 2,675 meter/ 8,775 ft
  • Ghandruk

As the sun twinkles in the morning, we start our trek after having breakfast. The journey involves descending along the ridge towards Chhomrong, where we'll spend the night. 

This part of the trek takes us through a picturesque alpine forest, where we'll encounter various types of flora and fauna, including lush pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, charming villages, and friendly locals. We'll stop for lunch at a standard lodge and have dinner at a standard guest house in Chhomrong, another lovely village belonging to the native Gurung community.

Overnight at Chhomrong

  • Standard Guest House
  • 4-5 hours trek
  • Brekafast Included
  • 2,340 m/ 7,680 ft
  • Chhomrong

Following breakfast, we resume our journey, beginning with a brief descent towards Chhomrong Stream. From there, we ascend once more until we reach Kholdighar, where we display our Annapurna Conservation Area Project entrance credentials. We'll navigate several steep inclines and declines and walk along rocky river banks before arriving at Doban, having crossed Bamboo along the way.

We stay at Doban for a night and take dinner at the same guesthouse.

Overnight at Doban

  • Standard Guest House
  • 4-5 hours trek
  • Brekafast Included
  • 2,505 m /8,220 ft
  • Doban

After breakfast, we resume our trek, gradually making our way towards our destination. As we ascend, you may start to notice the effects of high altitude and thin air. We continue along the ridge until we reach Deurali, taking in the stunning views of the Annapurna ranges, mesmerizing alpine forests, and diverse flora and fauna along the way. We'll have lunch en route and dinner will be provided at the guest house where we'll be spending the night. This part of the trek promises to be a beautiful and memorable experience.

Overnight at Deurali

  • Standard Guest House
  • 4-5 hours trek
  • Brekafast Included
  • 3,230 m /10,600 ft
  • Deurali

This marks the last segment of our 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, just before reaching our ultimate destination. We begin early in the morning with breakfast and embark on the most challenging part of the entire trek. This segment is especially demanding as it involves reaching two Base Camps. With a gradual ascent and a rocky, rugged trail, we make our way from Deurali towards the Annapurna Base Camp, where we'll spend some time exploring this incredible base camp situated at the foot of the magnificent and perilous Mt. Annapurna - one of the world's most awe-inspiring mountains.

We capture breathtaking pictures of the stunning Annapurna and revel in the beauty of the moraine. The spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna and the neighboring hills, among other things, put our efforts to reach this point into perspective. The incredible experience of reaching the astounding Base Camp of the magnificent and sacred Mt. Annapurna erases all of our fatigue and stress, making it all worth it.

After spending some time at ABC, we continue our trekking and reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The mighty mount Fishtail/Machhapuchhre welcomes us with its beautiful white smile and grand appearance, captivating us with its beauty. We take some time to explore the surrounding areas and admire the magnificence of Mt. Fishtail before spending the night here.

Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp

  • Standard Guest House
  • 4-5 hours trek
  • Brekafast Included
  • 4,130 m/ 13,545 ft
  • Annapurna Base Camp

We enjoy breakfast at the base of the mighty Mt. Machhapuchhre, marveling at the stunning supernatural reflection of the morning sun on the snow-capped mountains.

Following breakfast, we bid farewell to the Himalayas with heavy hearts, but  taking many wonderful memories and a lifetime of experiences. We begin our descent towards Sinuwa, taking in the beautiful sights of the alpine lush forest filled with rhododendron, oak, pine, and junipers, as well as the verdant vegetation, picturesque villages, rivers and streams, waterfalls, and other natural wonders that we encounter along the way.

Although we physically appear in Sinuwa, our minds, eyes, and hearts still hark the moments in the Base Camps. We leave footprints behind us and carry lots of lifetime memories.

Overnight at Sinuwa

  • Standard Guest House
  • 5-6 hours trek
  • Brekafast Included
  • 2,360 m /7,740 ft
  • Sinuwa

After having breakfast, we begin our descent towards our home. As we trek downwards, we gradually lose altitude and eventually arrive at Nayapul. From there, we catch a jeep and make our way back to Pokhara.

After refreshing and taking a short rest at the hotel in Pokhara, you may want to explore the Lakeside area in the evening. The city of Pokhara takes on a beautiful appearance at night, with its illuminated streets and stunning views of the lake.

Overnight at Pokhara

  • 3 Star and 5 Star Hotel option
  • 4-5 hours trek/1 hour drive
  • Brekafast Included
  • 815 m/ 2,675 ft
  • Pokhara

Following breakfast, we will begin our return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu. This drive will take us along the scenic riverbanks, offering picturesque views of the hills and the traditional Nepalese lifestyle. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you may rest or indulge in some souvenir shopping. In the evening, a farewell dinner accompanied by a cultural program will be organized to commemorate the successful conclusion of our journey.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • 3 Star and 5 Star Hotel option
  • 5-6 hours’ drive
  • Brekafast and Dinner Included
  • 1,300 m/4,265 ft
  • Kathmandu

After enjoying several days of adventure and entertainment, it is now time to bid farewell. Our representatives will accompany you to the Tribhuvan International Airport, in accordance with your scheduled flight time.

We feel privileged to have organized this tour for you and we hope that you had a remarkable experience. We wish you a secure and enjoyable journey ahead.

  • Brekafast Included

Package Option

  • 3 Star
  • Duration: 19 Days
  • US$699

What's included

  • Pick up from and drop off at the hotel and the airport on a private luxury vehicle.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu (Hotel Holy Himalaya or Arushi Boutique Hotel) and in Pokhara (Hotel Crown Himalaya or similar) on a twin/double sharing bed and breakfast basis.
  • All accommodations in standard lodges during the treks on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis
  • Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu and by private vehicle Pokhara to the trek starting point and ending point to Pokhara.
  • All necessary paper works, Conservation entry permits, and TIMS.
  • An experienced, helpful and friendly Guide and necessary porters.
  • Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation, and Insurance for the Guide and Porter.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu in a typical Nepali restaurant with a cultural dance performance in the evening.
  • Sleeping bag, duffle bag, city, and trekking route map - if necessary.
  • All government taxes and official expenses.
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa; you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunch and Dinner
  • Personal expenses.
  • Tips for the guide, porter & driver (Tipping is Expected).
  • 5 Star
  • Duration: 19 Days
  • US$950

What's included

  • Pick up from and drop off at the hotel and the airport on a private luxury vehicle.
  • Accommodation in 5-star hotel in Kathmandu (Kathmandu Marriott Hotel or similar) and in Pokhara (Hotel Pokhara Grande or similar) on a twin/double sharing bed and breakfast basis.
  • All accommodations in standard lodges during the treks on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis
  • Private transportation throughout the trip
  • All necessary paper works, Conservation entry permits, and TIMS.
  • An experienced, helpful and friendly Guide and necessary porters.
  • Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation, and Insurance for the Guide and Porter.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu in a typical Nepali restaurant with a cultural dance performance in the evening.
  • Sleeping bag, duffle bag, city, and trekking route map - if necessary.
  • All government taxes and official expenses.
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa; you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunch and Dinner
  • Personal expenses.
  • Tips for the guide, porter & driver (Tipping is Expected).

Good to Know

Guaranteed Departure

Annapurna Base camp Trekking has fixed departure starting the trip on 10 and 20th of every month. If this date does not match your travel date, please let us know for the private departure.

Accommodation:

Relax Getaways provides you 3 star and 5-star hotel options in cities and standard guest houses during trekking.

Accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (Hotel Holy Himalaya or Arushi Boutique Hotel) and in Pokhara (Hotel Crown Lake Star or similar).

Accommodation in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu (Kathmandu Marriott Hotel or similar) and in Pokhara (Hotel Pokhara Grande or similar).

Teahouse and lodge have the rooms with just the basics, normally with a bed, blanket, and pillows. Every lodge has a capacious dining room and lounge. We will provide you and your group with the lodge which is locally available every day. If you want to upgrade accommodation in cities, then contact us for cost detail.

Food on the way (Journey):

Your meals during the trek are comprised of our price. Travelers take their breakfast and dinner at the tea house where they stay and lunch is taken during the trekking in the local lodge. All standard Meals during the trekking are included in the cost. The lunches and dinners are not included in Kathmandu and Pokhara which costs from $4 to $8 depending on meal items and restaurant category.

Luggage:

Throughout the trip of Mountain Trekking, your luggage is carried and moved by the porters. You should carry a water bottle, sunscreen, camera, spare jacket, etc. Your main luggage will be your trekking bag and you can carry a small lockable bag that will provide safety. You are provided with a free locker room in a hotel in Kathmandu. The weight allowance in domestic airlines of Nepal is up to 20 kg and for more weight, you have to pay US$1 per/kg depending on the area.

Transportation on Journey:

Relax Getaways will offer you private luxury vehicles for airport transferal, sightseeing and Pokhara-Nayapul-Pokhara.

Private transportation throughout the trip for a 5-star option.
Luxurious tourist bus for Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu for 3-star options.

Group Leader during the journey:

Relax Getaways will facilitate you with the trained traveling guide in your group. There will be a single porter for a couple of people.

Payment of the Due Balance:

The rest amount of your trip can be paid in our office after your arrival or via online payment before your arrival in Nepal.

Communication during Journey:

Annapurna Base camp Trek is a moderate-level trek so you can find telephone and internet facilities in most of the places.

Vouchers:

If you have purchased a voucher for the tour, please inform us which tour date suits you as soon as you are certain. We need time to purchase your domestic air ticket and make other arrangements so please confirm your spot on a tour at least 2 months prior to the commencement of the tour. Your booking on a particular tour date is subject to the availability of spots. Also, please send us your redemption code and voucher number through this link.

Visa:

You can get a visa at Kathmandu airport upon arrival. Please bring 2 photos for the visa. Expect to have some waiting time in the queue for obtaining your visa. You can also get your visa prior to coming on the tour by contacting your closest Nepali embassy.

Tourist Visa Fee Details

Days

Updated Tourist Visa Fees

15 Days (Multiple Entry)

USD 30

30 Days (Multiple Entry)

USD 50

90 Days (Multiple Entry)

USD 125

Visa Extension (Within Valid Visa Period)

USD 3 per day

Visa Extension (With Multiple Entry)

Additional USD 25

Visa Extension (After Visa Expiration)

Late fee is USD 5 per day


Booking your international flight:

If you don't have a regular travel agent then you can check for international flight options at one of these sites.
www.makemytrip.com, www.kayak.com, www.vayama.com
They usually have good offers.

When and where should you arrive?

Please book your international flight to arrive and depart from Kathmandu international airport. The tour starts with an orientation meeting at about 5 pm on the first night of the tour and ends after the scheduled trip after breakfast.
You will be received outside the Kathmandu international airport terminal by representatives holding a "Relax Getaways" sign card and he will escort you to the Hotel.
If you plan to arrive early or depart late, please make sure you make extra hotel arrangements by contacting [email protected]
After you purchase your international air ticket, please contact us to give your flight details.

Currencies are accepted in Nepal:

Some major currencies (USD, AUD, and EURO) are accepted for both VISA and in general. There are plenty of ATMs in Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara and credit cards are accepted in limited shops and many restaurants. Please note that only Nepali rupees are accepted on the trek.

Health Issues:

The altitude sickness will get from 3000 meters. Normally below three 3000 meters will not have altitude-related problems usually for people with stable health. But above it can cause altitude-related sickness. If you have a health condition that might cause problems, please consult a doctor about the advisability of doing the trek. For Your information, your traveling guide will also have pills for Altitude Sickness and other basic medicine. We recommend you take pills for diarrhea, cold, fever and nausea.

Insurance/Evacuation:

We do not hope that there may arise any serious problems for you in your journey, but if you get caught by a serious illness, then we will do our best to take you to the nearest hospital possible. But you will be responsible for all the expenses that take place during the evacuation process. So, it is good for you to have insurance that will cover your cost. Be insured (As you will reach up to 4200meter).

Mount Everest:

If you want to see a close view of Mt. Everest and the Himalayan peaks, we can arrange mountain flights. You can contact [email protected] to book. To know more about Mount Everest Scenic Flight by plane, please click here and Everest Scenic Flight by Helicopter click here.

Trip Extensions/Add-on trips:

If you like our service and you want to extend your trip, then we can further organize your trip to India, Bhutan, and Tibet.

Tips:

A general rule of thumb for tipping is from USD 40 to USD 70 per Traveler, depending on the length of the trek. Porters do appreciate a personal tip, although it is not uncommon for the Guide and his Porters to pool the tips they have collected before splitting it amongst themselves, with the Guide getting a little more for overseeing the welfare and safety of both the Travelers and Porters as a whole. That said, this is just a guide and you may tip, however much you think is appropriate for the services rendered which made your trip a memorable one.

For more information about Nepal Trip click here.

FAQs

Q: How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
A: The trek is categorized as moderately challenging and is appropriate for individuals with a decent level of fitness. Nonetheless, certain segments of the trail can pose challenges, particularly the steep ascent to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.

Q: How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
A: The typical duration of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek varies from 10 to 15 days or more, depending on the trekker's pace and itinerary. Some trekkers may opt to extend their journey by incorporating extra side trips or rest days.

Q: What is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
A: The optimal periods for undertaking the ABC trek are from September to November and from March to May. During these times, the weather is steady, and the skies are clear, making it the best time to embark on the journey.

Q: Do I need a permit to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
A:  Yes, for trekking in the Annapurna region, two permits are necessary: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Q: Is it safe to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
A: Yes, the trek is regarded as safe, and there are no notable security issues. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to trek with a licensed guide or as part of a group for enhanced safety.

Q: What kind of accommodation is available during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
A: The trek route provides diverse accommodation options, ranging from teahouses, lodges to homestays. The quality of facilities and amenities varies based on the location and altitude. Most the accommodations are locally operated by the local villagers.

Q: What kind of food is available during the trek?
A: The majority of teahouses and lodges provide a selection of Nepali, Indian, and Western cuisine. The food is generally straightforward yet satisfying, and it is advisable to opt for vegetarian meals to minimize the risk of food-related illnesses. Drinking more water is always a top recommendation.

Q: What should I pack for the trek?
A: When preparing for the trek, it's crucial to pack essential items such as warm clothing, a high-quality sleeping bag, durable hiking boots, waterproof clothing, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Additionally, bringing a water bottle and water purification tablets is advisable.

Q: Do I need to have previous trekking experience to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
A: No prior trekking experience is required. Nonetheless, it is recommended to have a decent level of fitness and endurance.

Q: Can I trek to Annapurna Base Camp solo?
A: Solo trekking is not allowed with new rule issued by the Nepal Tourism board. It is recommended to trek with a licensed guide or group for safety and convenience.

What Our Clients Say

3 Star Package
US$699
5 Star Package
US$950