Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Packstock or Porter Supported

13 Days, 12 Nights 38.2+MI / 61.5+KM
  • Nepalese flags on rocky cliff
  • Wooden suspension bridge over river
  • Red helicopter in front of snowy mountains

Trip Highlights

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary, is a stunning Himalayan journey through a unique blend of cultures and landscapes. Following a well-worn trail through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, terraced farmlands, and lush forests, we ascend gradually into the alpine zone. Along the way, we enjoy unforgettable views of iconic peaks like Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Dhaulagiri. The highlight of the trek is reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 13,550 feet, where a breathtaking sunrise illuminates a ring of towering Himalayan giants.

  • Check Mark World Famous Trek
  • Check Mark Incredible Elevation Change
  • Check Mark Dramatic Mountains & Views
  • Check Mark Giant Rivers, Waterfalls & Valleys
  • Check Mark Fantastic, Local Cuisine
  • Check Mark Relatively Moderate Hiking
  • Check Mark Temples, Monasteries & Villages

Book This Trip

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Trip Details

  • Trip Type

    Trip Type

    Packstock or Porter Supported
  • Trip Length

    Trip Length

    13 Days, 12 Nights
  • Hiking Distance

    Daily Hiking Distance

    Up to 10.4 mi
  • Group Size

    Group Size

    2-14 Guests
  • Trip Begins

    Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Trip Ends

    Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Permit Info

    No permit required
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Is This Trip Right For me?

This trip has multiple significant one-day elevation gains (up to 5,000 feet) and one day of significant elevation loss (up to 9,425 feet), but our elevations don’t exceed 14,000 feet and we’re hiking with light day packs over moderately rugged terrain. For these reasons, we give this trip a Level 4 difficulty rating.

Difficulty Level
4 of 5
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Solitude Level
2 of 5
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Hiking Distances
5 of 5

Up to 10.4 mi

Backpack Weight
2 of 5

15-25 pounds

Terrain
3 of 5

Moderately Rugged

Max Daily Elevation
5 of 5

Up to 5,000 ft

Height & Exposure
4 of 5

Significant

Trip Itinerary

Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Day 2

This morning, after breakfast on your own at our hotel, we’ll visit the famous “Monkey Temple” of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath. Once we are ready to leave Swayambhunath, we travel to the largest Buddhist stupa in the world, Boudhanath. Lunch will be on your own during the temple tours, we travel back to Thamel where you’ll have free time to explore the streets of Thamel, purchase last minute trekking supplies, and/or rest at the hotel.  Dinner tonight is on your own and your guides will have great recommendations for you in the area if you want. 

Day 3

Drive Time: 10-11 hours

This morning we depart Kathmandu around 8 am. We board on our private vehicle and set off for roughly 11 hours to Nepal’s second largest city, Pokhara (2,713ft/827m)! En-route we will be immersed in the Nepali countryside being exposed to rivers, villages, farms and beautiful mountain scenery. Once we arrive in Pokhara, we’ll check into our hotel, and you’ll have the afternoon and evening free to explore and dine in this wonderful destination city. 

Day 4

wooden suspension bridge over rocks and river

Hiking Mileage: 4 mi (6.5 km)

Elevation Gain: 3350 ft (1021 m)

Elevation Loss: 480 ft (146 m)

Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours

Drive Time: 2 hours

After breakfast, we will drive for 2 hours in a private vehicle to the village of Shyaule Bazar. This is where our trek officially begins. At the trailhead, our guides will conduct a final brief on effective trekking techniques before heading off towards the village of Ghandruk (6,600ft/2,010m). Hiking on a stone paved trail we will reach the small village of Kimche. After a short break, we will finish our day’s trek at the village of Ghandruk. Upon arrival we’ll check into our guest house and have free time until our dinner is served. After dining, your guides will provide the plan for the next day.

Day 5

Hiking Mileage: 6.7 mi (10.8 km)

Elevation Gain: 3900 ft (1189 m)

Elevation Loss: 2440 ft (744 m)

Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours

Today’s trek from Ghandruk leads higher past many farm terraces and into the cool shade of the local forests. We will head up to the Kimrong ridge, eventually descending into the Kimrong River Valley. After a brief rest, our afternoon climb will lead us on a nice winding trail to reach the top of a hill. From this vantage point we will gain spectacular views of the Annapurna region’s alpine peaks. After an easier downhill walk, we will reach the village of Chhomrong (7,120ft/2170m). This is the last village before leading us through a scenic sanctuary en route to Annapurna base camp. Upon arrival we’ll check into our guest house and have free time until dinner. If you’re feeling adventurous you can try the deep fried Snickers with custard for desert!

Day 6

Hiking Mileage: 4 mi (6.5 km)

Elevation Gain: 2990 ft (911 m)

Elevation Loss: 1830 ft (558 m)

Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours

This morning after breakfast, we will begin our trek to the village of Bamboo (7,580ft/2,310m). The trail leading out of Chhomrong descends down a section of stone steps before crossing the Chhomrong river. After taking in the views of this river we will begin ascending up to the village of Sinuwa. During this section we pass through a beautiful forest and the village of Kuldihar. Upon arrival to Bamboo, we’ll check into our guest house and have time to relax before dinner. Your guides will deliver the plan for the next day after dinner.

Day 7

Three hikers hold Wildland Trekking flag on mountain

Hiking Mileage: 4.4 mi (7.1 km)

Elevation Gain: 3890 ft (1185 m)

Elevation Loss: 1095 ft (334 m)

Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours

After a tasty breakfast, we begin ascending slowly through a bamboo forest. Due to the nature of this forest, we are hidden from the sun, so make sure to have your puffy jacket accessible. Eventually, the forest opens up and we are out in the sun again with amazing views of the glacial river below. The vegetation becomes sparser the higher we climb, allowing magical views of the surrounding mountains. When we arrive in Deurali (10,598ft/3,230m), we will then check into our guest house and have free time until our dinner is served. After dinner, we will have time to read books or play cards and sip tea until its time to turn in. Our guides will deliver our plan for the next day’s hike after dinner.

Day 8

Hiking Mileage: 2.3 mi (3.7 km)

Elevation Gain: 4040 ft (1231 m)

Elevation Loss: 2420 ft (738 m)

Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours

Today is our shortest day of hiking of the trek, which allows us some rest and extra time for our bodies to adjust to the higher elevations. We will begin our walk over a glacial riverbed and then the trail becomes steeper. We continue to hike slowly, allowing our bodies to acclimatize effectively, for a couple of hours until we reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp – MBC (12,139ft/3,700m). MBC has outstanding views of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Annapurna South and Mt. Annapurna 1. Upon arrival we’ll check into our guest house and have a warm lunch. After some time to relax, we will go on a short acclimatization hike which allows our bodies to adjust better to the higher elevations of MBC. This hike, a nutritious dinner, and a good night’s rest will prepare us properly for our big hike tomorrow. Annapurna Base Camp here we come!

Day 9

Hiking Mileage: 10.4 mi (16.7 km)

Elevation Gain: 1410 ft (430 m)

Elevation Loss: 5971 ft (1820 m)

Trekking Duration: 8-9 hours

This morning we will get an early start for our biggest hike of the trip. Our morning goal will be to reach the Annapurna Base Camp – ABC (13,550ft/4,130m). This is often the highlight of the trip due to the sweeping high alpine views of the surrounding Himalayas and the mighty, towering Annapurna during sunrise. After spending some time taking in the views, photographing the surrounding area and enjoying a hot drink we will start our decent away from ABC and back to the Village of Bamboo (7,580ft/2,310m).

Our return journey takes us back down to MBC for lunch, and in the afternoon back to Bamboo. Upon arrival in Bamboo, we will check into our guest house and have time for some much-deserved rest and relaxation until being served dinner. What a day it has been!

Day 10

Hiking Mileage: 5.8 mi (9.3 km) *Optional Hike: 1.2 mi (1.9 km)

Elevation Gain: 2955 ft (900 m) *Optional Gain/Loss: 610 ft (186m)

Elevation Loss: 4920 ft (1500m)

Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

From Bamboo, we will trek through the village of Kuldighar and descend to the Chhomrong river before climbing the stone steps up to the village of Chhomrong. In Chhomrong, we will have a break for lunch. After eating, we will take a quieter less traveled path to the village of Jhinu (5,775ft/1,760m). Here we will check into our guest house for the night. Tonight, we have an extra special treat, a local hot spring is just a short walk (*optional hike above) from our guest house and is a perfect way to spend the afternoon. Getting to soak and relax our muscles is a perfect way to end today’s hike. We will arrange a time to meet back at the guest house for our dinner and make plans for our final day of trekking.

Day 11

Hiking Mileage: .6 mi (1 km)

Elevation Gain: 82 ft (25 m)

Elevation Loss: 215 ft (65 m)

Trekking Duration: 30 min.

Driving Duration: 3 hours

We have a short hike today to reach the jeep station. After crossing the Jhinu Danda suspension bridge, we’ll board our jeep and drive for about 3 hours to Pokhara. The first hour will be on an off-road path so expect some bumps but thereafter will be a paved highway. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we will say goodbye to our porters, check into our hotel, take showers and have free time. You will have the afternoon and evening free to wander around the pleasant lakeside markets, souvenir shops, and parks. Dinner today will be on your own and your guides will have great recommendations for you if you want.

Day 12

After breakfast in Pokhara, we will start on our 124-mile drive back to Kathmandu by private vehicle. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will check into our hotel. The afternoon is free for you to have lunch, rest or explore Thamel on your own. We will set a time to meet and have one final farewell dinner together celebrating our achievements and new friendships. What a trip it has been! 

Day 13

Today is the final day of the trip. Our shuttle driver will come to your hotel 3 hours before your flight departure and deliver you to Tribhuvan International Airport. If you are remaining in Nepal, please let us know. We can arrange extra activities in Nepal. Thanks for choosing Wildland Trekking.

Trip Dates

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What's Included

  • Trip Included
    TIMS and ACAP permits (please bring 1 passport photo, 1 copy of passport, and 1 copy of your travel insurance policy)
  • Trip Included
    A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
  • Trip Included
    Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
  • Trip Included
    Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on the day you depart
  • Trip Included
    Hotel lodging before and after the trekking portion of the trip, and teahouse lodging during the trek (Lodging Details)
  • Trip Included
    Use of a day pack and trekking poles
  • Trip Included
    High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (professionally laundered after every use)
  • Trip Included
    Himalayan porters
  • Trip Included
    TIMS and ACAP permits and fees (please bring 1 passport photo, 1 copy of passport, and 1 copy of your travel insurance policy)
  • Trip Included
    Breakfast, lunch and dinner for the duration of the trekking portion of the trip
  • Trip Included
    Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • Trip Included
    All breakfasts in Pokhara and Kathmandu
  • Trip Included
    Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device

What's Not Included

  • Trip Not Included
    Transportation to Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Trip Not Included
    Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
  • Trip Not Included
    Day 2 & 3 lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Day 11 dinner in Pokhara and Day 12 lunch in Kathmandu
  • Trip Not Included
    Clothes, rain gear, and footwear 
  • Trip Not Included
    Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
  • Trip Not Included
    Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
  • Trip Not Included
    All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
  • Trip Not Included
    Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-20% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. USD is preferred. Tipping guide and support staff occurs on Day 10 of trek and due to no ATMs on the route, please ensure you have tips prepared before the trip begins. Tips given to the lead guide will be distributed amongst the guides and support staff.
  • Trip Not Included
    Trip insurance that includes at least $200,000 in evacuation, repatriation coverage (required in Nepal). Additional travel medical coverage is strongly recommended.

Accommodations

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

NEPALI TEA HOUSES

NEPALI TEA HOUSES
7 NIGHTS

Tea houses are inns/guest houses with sleeping rooms and home cooked meals. They vary depending on their remoteness. Lower ones have more amenities, such as flush toilets, showers and nicer dining rooms. As we ascend, they get more rustic with simpler “squat” toilets and more basic amenities. Rooms are communal with 2 or 3 beds.

Trip Logistics & FAQs

Where Do We Meet?

We will meet you at the airport on Day 1 and transport you to the first night’s hotel (included), where we’ll conduct an orientation meeting at 5:00 PM the first evening (your flight should arrive in Kathmandu before 3:00 PM). Our Nepal communication team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel to Nepal

BOOKING FLIGHTS

For our Nepal treks you will need to arrive in Kathmandu on the day the trip begins before 3:00 PM as our orientation will be at  5:00 PM. Your guide will rendezvous with you at the airport and transport you to our hotel. An orientation meeting, dinner and accommodations are included on Day 1. Your return flight should be scheduled for the final day of the tour. Flights to and from Kathmandu are the guest’s responsibility. Multiple airlines operate flights into Kathmandu, but there are no direct flights from U.S. or European cities. Most flights connect through Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates), Doha (Qatar), New Delhi (India), Seoul (South Korea). The duration of these multiple-stop flights, including layovers, is normally between 29 and 35 hours.

Your flight on the final day can depart at any time.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Kathmandu, Nepal as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Kathmandu, Nepal as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.

Entry Requirements

For checking entry requirements for this trip, we recommend using this travel tool, Sherpa Travel. Here, you can view what is required to enter the country, including necessary travel documents, visas, and vaccinations. If a visa is required, you can apply directly through this service. You may also check for entry requirements for your nationality on consular websites or your country’s foreign travel advisories. Ensuring you have completed all necessary steps to enter the country is your responsibility.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Guides

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

  • 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
  • 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance Requirements

Field evacuation and repatriation insurance (at least $200,000) is required on all Nepal trips as a condition of partnership terms with our Nepali vendors. Additional travel medical coverage is strongly recommended.

If you need to purchase field evacuation, repatriation and medical coverage insurance, we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all Nepali requirements. Their Travel LX policy fully covers all Nepali requirements.

For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here.

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected]
US by Phone: 877-305-9083
Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions (of particular note for Nepal is to check field evacuation elevation limits).

Reviews

5.0 (5 reviews)
add a review
Hully H
5.0
2 years ago

Great Adventure

What an adventure!!!! Wildland took great care of us and showed us the beauty of Nepal.

Brian U
5.0
3 years ago

Exciting and Fun

We just completed the MBC to ABC trek with Bishnu as our guide. The trip ran super smooth and Bishnu made the trip exciting and fun. The pace he set insured no blisters or broken down knees and completion of the trek for both me and my daughter. He had a great relationship with our porter which made the trip that much more fun. We played cards and dined quite a bit together. I would recommend this trek without reservation. Great trip. Thanks to Bishnu and Jeevan for the organization.

Bryan R
5.0
3 years ago

Amazing Trip!

What an amazing trip! Everything was as advertised, couldn't recommend more highly!

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