Activities : Trekking, Sightseeing
Best Month : October to December and March to May
Transportation : Luxury tourist bus and shared jeep
Accommodation : Hotels and Lodges
Style : Lodge Trek
Max Elevation : 4,130m (Annapurna Base Camp South)
Meal : Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara, full board during the trek and farewell dinner
Trip Route : Pokhara-Ghorepani-Poon Hill- Tadapani- Sinuwa- Deurali- ABC- Bamboo-Jhinu-Pokhara
We had an amazing time trekking in Annapurna with our guide Hari Adhikari and porter Sujan. These guys put in work day and night to make sure we were safe and comfortable in the cold December conditions and Hari’s knowledge of the mountain w Read All
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a trek to one of the most majestic base camps in the world. Nestled at the altitude of 4,130 meters, this base camp lies inside the Annapurna Sanctuary and serves as the gateway to the 10th highest (8,091m) peak (Annapurna I) in the world. The sanctuary, surrounded by some of the grand peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre as well as Hiunchuli, is the perfect example of nature at its most pure and powerful form and a very beautiful sight to behold. Moreover, apart from the views of the majestic mountains and the altitude it boasts, the trek to Annapurna Base Camp is also renowned for its remarkably diverse ecosystem.
The trail meandering through the picturesque rice paddies and terraced farmlands, enters verdant forest adorned with rhododendrons, before opening up into a colossal amphitheater encircled by the unrivaled mountain vistas, thus offering ample opportunity to soak yourself in the freshness and the unparalleled beauty of nature. Additionally, this hike to the base camp of Annapurna also offers a chance to explore the diverse (mostly Gurung and Magar) culture of the region. Moreover, apart from the base camp, Poon Hill makes another major attraction of this trek, as it allows trekkers to view an awe-inspiring panorama of the peaks that make the Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range.
Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani and Poon Hill is a 13 days Annapurna base camp hike itinerary that starts with your arrival in Kathmandu. From Kathmandu you will drive to Pokhara, a gateway to most Annapurna treks. The actual hike starts only after a drive to Ulleri. From Ulleri, making your way through Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Sinuwa, Himalaya and Deurali, you will hike all the way to the base camp of Annapurna. However, on your return journey, you will retrace the trail down till Chhomrong and then hike down to Jhinu, before taking a vehicle back to Pokhara. From Pokhara you will drive back to Kathmandu before departing from Nepal. In total, on this Annapurna Base Camp trekking trip you will spend 7 nights in the Annapurna region, 2 nights in Pokhara and 3 nights in Kathmandu. The package also includes one full day guided city tour in Kathmandu, where you will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites to understand the ancient history and culture.
To best enjoy the trek, plan your Annapurna base camp trek around October-November. However, if you want to witness the blooming rhododendron, plan it in spring around March-May. If you come from a country that mostly experiences extreme cold weather, this trek can also be done in winter, that is, mid December to late February. The trail will also be less crowded in winter.
Despite the altitude, this hike is suitable for everyone and anyone, who is physically fit and can walk for an average of 6-8 hours a day. Thus, you being a child, senior citizen, novice trekker is not an issue at all, if you are really up for the trek. This trek is also very suitable for student groups interested in trekking trips that include mountain landscape, diverse ecology and multi-ethnic culture.
Trekkers who are already in Pokhara can also choose to join the group or start the trek from Pokhara.
Moreover, for a longer and comprehensive trekking experience, this trek can also be added to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, for those bound by time, we suggest Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek and for those looking for less strenous, short and naturally and culturally rich trek in Nepal, our 6 days Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trek will be the best choice.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing tour or a day hike and trek preparation
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200km),(6-7h)
Day 4: Drive to Ulleri (1960m/6430ft),(4h) and trek to Ghorepani (2860m/9,383ft),(7km),(4h)
Day 5: Hike to Poon Hill (3193m/10,475ft) and trek to Tadapani (2630/8628ft),(9km),(6h)
Day 6: Trek to Sinuwa (2360m/7742ft),(11km),(8h)
Day 7: Trek to Deurali (3200m/10,498ft),(10km),(7h)
Day 8: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m/13,549ft),(6km),(7h)
Day 9: Trek to Bamboo (2310m/7578ft),(13km),(8h)
Day 10: Trek to Jhinu (1780m/5839ft),(8km),(6h)
Day 11: Drive to Pokhara (4h)
Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu
Day 13: Departure Day
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek will begin with your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. A company representative will meet and greet you at the airport and help you transfer to the hotel booked for you in Kathmandu. Check into the hotel and take a short rest. In the afternoon, one of the company representatives will conduct a short meeting at the hotel for a trip briefing. After the briefing, you will be introduced to your guide, who will also check your trekking equipment. After the meeting, you can spend the remaining day at leisure. If your flight is scheduled to arrive in the afternoon, evening, or even at night, the meeting will be held the following day, after the city tour. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing tour or a day hike and trek preparation Breakfast at the hotel and you will set out on a guided orientation tour of the Kathmandu Valley. The valley is rich in fascinating history, backed by distinctive architecture and ancient culture. So, to get insight on this history, culture and architecture, you will visit 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites, namely, the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath. Out of these 4 sites, Pashuatinath, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath will give you insight into the two major religions in Nepal, Hinduism and Buddhism. The fourth site, the Kathmandu Durbar Square, is a complex of palaces, temples and courtyards, built by several rulers of Licchavi and Malla dynasty and that offers rich history, culture and impeccable architectural artistry to its visitors. After exploring these sites, you will return to your hotel for trek preparation (buy last minute trekking gears, and pack and get the luggage ready) and a comfortable overnight stay. If you have already visited the above-mentioned sites in your previous visit to Nepal, you can also choose to visit the options sites like the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the Patan Durbar Square and Changu Narayan. However, if you’ve already visited all of these sites, you can also choose to go on a day hike to one of the hiking destinations, Shivapuri National Park, Phulchoki, Nagarjuna, Champa Devi to mention a few, or visit other tourist destinations like Namo Buddha, Chandragiri, Kopan Monastery, Khokana, Panauti, Pharping and so on. Meals: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200km),(6-7h) Today you will drive to the beautiful lake city, Pokhara, located approximately 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu, in a Luxury Tourist Bus. Tourist buses to Pokhara are scheduled to leave Kathmandu tourist bus station at 7:00am. Hence, your guide will come to pick you up from the hotel before 7:00 am and transfer you to the bus station. Carrying packed breakfast you will start your journey to Pokhara. Exiting the valley from its west exit, you will soon continue on a 200 kilometer long Prithvi Highway, weaving through the heart of the hills. The Prithvi Highway is Nepal’s second trunk road that connects Pokhara and Kathmandu and makes western hill more accessible. Staying near the bottom of the deep valleys, this highway also parallels Nepal’s most popular rafting river, the Trisuli river, for approximately 50 kilometers. It’s a picturesque drive and you can see green hills, rivers, streams, mountains, terraced farms and tiny little hamlets. The hotels, motels, lodges and local restaurants built along the highway serve the food and accommodation needs of the travelers. Provided that the road condition is good and not affected by the highway traffic, you will reach Pokhara from Kathmandu in about 6 to 7 hours. You will be dropped off at the tourist bus station, from where you will be transferred to the hotel booked for you in Pokhara. Check into the hotel and spend the remaining day at leisure. The best way to spend the evening is to enjoy a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake or simply stroll around the lake area. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara. Meals: Breakfast
Day 04: Drive to Ulleri (1960m/6430ft),(4h) and trek to Ghorepani (2860m/9,383ft),(7km),(4h) Following a hearty breakfast, the journey to Ghorepani begins with a drive to Ulleri, located roughly 4 hours drive west from Pokhara. Ulleri serves as the gateway for trekkers heading to Ghorepani and Poon Hill. The drive today begins in the vibrant town of Pokhara, which proudly flaunts the stunning views of Annapurna Mountain range and the serene Phewa Lake. As you leave Pokara, you will drive through lush green valleys and charming rural landscapes, often fitted with terraced fields and traditional villages and picturesque mountain views. Along the way, you will pass through towns like Nayapul that are lively with local shops and eateries. Till Nayapul the drive is on a Pokhara-Beni road that is wide and black-topped. However, from Nayapul the road to Ulleri starts to grow narrower and winding as you get closer. You will stop at Birethanti for national ACAP formalities, before continuing further to Ulleri. The final stretch involves a gradual ascent, providing breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. The overall drive to Ulleri is not just about reaching the destination, but is also an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the Annapurna region. This journey equally builds excitement for the trekking adventure that lies ahead. Once in Ulleri, the trek to Ghorepani begins. It’s a very rewarding and beautiful journey that typically takes about 4-6 hours, depending on your pace. Initially the trek starts with a steep ascent on stone steps, which can be challenging but offer a very spectacular view of the Annapurna range. The path is well defined and you will see local people going about their daily lives. As you climb higher the landscape changes from terraced fields to lush forests of Rhododendron, Oak and Pine. In spring, the Rhododendrons bloom creating a vibrant display of colors. The views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre are stunning throughout the trek and provide perfect photo opportunities. There are several small tea houses along the route where you can stop for quick tea breaks, enjoy your drink while soaking yourself in the scenery and interact with the locals getting insights into their life and culture. After several hours of walking, you will finally reach Ghorepani. Upon arrival, you will check into one of the local lodges that serves the food and accommodation needs of the trekkers. Known for its warm hospitality, you will very likely enjoy a cozy stay in Ghorepani along with the stunning mountain views. Overnight in a lodge in Ghorepani. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05: Hike to Poon Hill (3193m/10,475ft) and trek to Tadapani (2630/8628ft),(9km),(6h) Poon Hill is famous for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas and is one of the major highlights of the Ghorepani area. Therefore, you will start this day with a hike to Poon Hill from Ghorepani, to enjoy the mountain sunrise view. Bundled up in warm clothing, you will start this day roughly one hour before sunrise, as depending on your pace the hike to the viewpoint of Poon Hill takes about 30-45 minutes. The hike is on a series of stone steps that lead you up through the forest of Rhododendron and Pine trees. It’s a steady uphill climb that can get steeper at times, but the well-maintained steps make it doable. As you ascend, you can feel the air growing cooler and crisper. Upon reaching the viewpoint, you will be greeted by a panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and the sight of the sun rising over these royal mountains is truly a once-in-a-lifetime sight, as when the sun strikes it’s first rays on these mountains, the mountains are first bathed in golden light creating a dramatic contrast against the blue sky, before shining bright white reacquiring its original color. To keep yourself warm, you can also enjoy some hot drinks like tea or coffee sold by local vendors. After spending some time resting, chatting with other trekkers and locals, taking in the sights and the fresh mountain air and feeling accomplished, you will make your way down to Ghorepani for breakfast, before starting your journey to Tadapani. The journey to Tadapani from Ghorepani, which is mostly on a descending trail, starts after a hearty breakfast in Ghorepani. Initially the trail goes through lush Rhododendron forest. In spring, this part of the journey is made even more vibrant with the colorful blossoms of Rhododendron. The views of the Annapurna range and other surrounding mountains are breathtaking and offer plenty of photo opportunities. The sound of the streams and waterfalls that you will walk across add more adventure to the trek and serenity to the surrounding. Before finally climbing to Tadapani you will stop for lunch. After lunch, it’s a gradual uphill climb to Tadapani. As you gain elevation the view of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre grow more prominent. Once in Tadapani, you will check into the lodge and enjoy a warm meal. In the evening, enjoy the incredible sunset view from Tadapani. Overnight in a lodge in Tadapani. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06: Trek to Sinuwa (2360m/7742ft),(11km),(8h Trek to Sinuwa begins after a hearty breakfast in Tadapani. Enjoy the majestic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. The trail to Sinuwa forks north from Tadapani. Following this trail, you will head down to the Kimrong River. It’s a steep descent first through the lush forest and then the terraced fields that create stunning landscapes. Crossing the bridge across the Kimrong River, a gentle climb will take you to Taulung, past the Chhomrong Pass. From Taulung, a steep climb will take you to the village of Chhomrong inhabited by the Gurung (ethnic group in Nepal) people, who are well known for their hospitality and rich culture and traditions. This village comprises traditional houses built from stone and wood, reflecting local architectural styles and lodges, teahouses and shops that cater to the accommodation and meal needs of trekkers headed towards the Annapurna Sanctuary. If you need to stock up on any last minute needs for the trek, this is the place for you. From Chhomrong, you will hike down to the Chhomrong river following the stone steps, before finally ascending to Sinuwa. Encounter beautiful views of Annapurna range and lush forest along the way and continue up to Sinuwa after crossing the Chhomrong River. Sinuwa is a beautiful village surrounded by lush forest and stunning mountain views. This village also has a number of lodges and tea houses that serve the lodging and food needs of trekkers. In Sinuwa, you will check into the lodge for a warm meal and cozy overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07: Trek to Deurali (3200m/10,498ft),(10km),(7h) Trek to Deurali starts after breakfast in Sinuwa. Crossing places like Bamboo, Dobhan and Himalaya, you will hike all the way up to Deurali on a trail that, winding through lush forests of Oak, Bamboo and Rhododendron, runs parallel to the Modi River. On the way you will also walk across some small streams that run down to feed the Modi River. Starting from Sinuwa, the hike to Kuldhigar is on a gradually descending trail and is comparatively easier than the previous day’s as well as the upcoming hike. The descending trail continues to Bamboo, where you enter a bamboo forest rich in flowers and ferns. Continuing further up through the dense jungle, soaking in the magnificent view of the cascading waterfall you will hike to Himalaya. After crossing the Himalaya, you will enter the avalanche risk zone, where you need to tread very carefully. The terrain is very rough. Soon you will reach Deurali, your overnight stop for tonight. Check into the lodge and enjoy a warm meal and cozy accommodation. Accommodation this day will be in a dormitory-style room, which you will be sharing with 3-4 other people. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 08: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m/13,549ft),(6km),(7h) You will start this day after breakfast in Deurali and continue your hike to the Annapurna Base Camp, the ultimate destination of this trek. Leaving Deurali, the journey further continues on the avalanche risk zone, which started around the Hinku Cave the previous day and stretches all the way up to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp today. Treading carefully and as quickly as possible you will cross this section of the trail. The rocky valley around this area widens and becomes less steep. Soon, you are greeted by a grand view of Machhapuchhre and other surrounding towering peaks. Walking past MBC, you will continue west on a wide trail entering the Annapurna Sanctuary. Straight ahead lies the high lateral moraine of the South Annapurna glacier. Enjoying the spectacular panorama of mountains and walking parallel to the glacier, the journey continues to the Annapurna Base Camp. A 2 hour hike, surrounded by the 360 degree views of 6,7 and 8 thousand meter peaks will finally take you to the base camp. Machhapuchhre, Gandharwa Chuli, Annapurna III, Annapurna I (World's 10th highest peak), Annapurna South, Hiun Chuli and Tharpu Chuli stand out amongst all the peaks in the sanctuary. Once at the base camp, you will check into the lodge for a warm meal and cozy night stay. Accommodation today will be in a dormitory-style room, which you will be sharing with 3-4 other people. Spend the evening enjoying the mountain sunset views. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 09: Trek to Bamboo (2310m/7578ft),(13km),(8h) Wake up early in the morning to witness one of the most beautiful mountain sunrise views. Spend some time admiring the beauty, feeling accomplished and capturing the views in your camera or mobile phone. You will then have your breakfast and begin your return journey. The way down is on the same trail that you hike to reach the base camp. Leaving the majestic panoramic views of the Annapurna mountains, picturesque landscape and the rocky valley behind, you will hike all the way down into the forest of bamboo, oak and rhododendron past Machhapuchhre base camp, Deurali and Dobhan for overnight stay in Bamboo. Once in Bamboo, you will check into the lodge for cozy accommodation and a warm meal. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Jhinu (1780m/5839ft),(8km),(6h) You will start this day after breakfast in Bamboo. Retracing the steps, you will hike down to Taulung past Khuldighar, Sinuwa, and Chhomrong. Slowly leaving the dense forest you will hike towards the human settlement that flaunts terraced fields and villages nestled amidst the lush hills. At Taulung, the trail to Jhinu, a ridgetop settlement, branches off east from the main Annapurna Base Camp trail. Following this trai, you will continue down to Jhinu and check into the lodge for overnight stay. On this day, after reaching Jhinu, you can also hike down to the natural hot spring to soak yourself up and relax your tired muscles. This natural pool is located some 15-20 minutes walk downhill through the forest from Jhinu Danda, near the bank of Modi River. After spending a relaxing time here, you will hike back to your lodge for dinner and comfortable and peaceful overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Drive to Pokhara (4h) The day begins after a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Jhinu. Bidding farewell to the beautiful Annapurna region, you will now begin your journey to Pokhara. A 15-20 minutes walk from Jhinu will bring you down to the vehicle station from where you will catch your transportation back to Pokhara. From this place, you will drive back to Pokhara. It’s a very scenic 4 hour drive. Your guide will also take care of the check out formalities at Birethanti. Once in Pokhara, you will be transferred to the hotel booked for you in Pokhara. Check into the hotel and you can spend the day either exploring the attractions in Pokhara, enjoying the lakeside or simply relaxing at the hotel. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 12:Drive to Kathmandu Breakfast at the hotel and you will be transferred to the tourist bus station in Pokhara to catch your bus to Kathmandu. Following the Prithvi Highway, the bus will bring you back to Kathmandu. You will reach Kathmandu in about 6-7 hours, provided that the road conditions are good and not affected by highway traffic. From the bus station in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to the hotel booked for you in Kathmandu. In the evening, a company representative will meet you for farewell dinner feedback. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu. Meals: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Day 13: Departure Day Breakfast at the hotel and you will be transferred to the airport, as per your airport reporting time, to help you catch your onward flight. However, if you are planning to extend your stay in Nepal, we can also offer and organize some of the best ways to spend your time in Nepal. Meals: Breakfast
Trip Cost Include
Trip Cost Exclude
Special Note: On our trip you are able to schedule your own departure dates. We are able to depart our trip every day (only Nepal). So kindly choose your own date as per your convenient. Contact us to schedule your own departure day.
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