Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill is among the most alluring yet adventurous journey on the foothills of Annapurna ranges and Machhapuchhre Himal. Also popular as Annapurna Sanctuary trek, this trek offers you a closer glimpse of the cultural, natural, and the geographical diversity of the region.
Starting for the height as low as 1300 meters, Kathmandu ABC trek you take you to the maximum height of 4130 meters in the Annapurna Base Camp. With this variation in altitude, your experiences will also vary in every stop.
The enticing mountain ranges, scattered typical settlements of Gurung, Magar, and other ethnicities are among the major attractions of the trek. Plus, the exotic walks into the lush forests with diverse flora and fauna make this trek even more beautiful.
On this trek, you will trek to Poon Hill, which is among the best vantage point for the best views of the chain of Himalayas. The place is also the popular spot to watch the spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
This is a moderate trek which every age group of people can opt for. The trail is quite maintained and easy in comparison to other trekking trails in the Annapurna region. And, Spring and Autumn is the best time for ABC trek but, you can do it in summer and winter as well. But, it needs extra preparation and proper packing.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Catch the mesmerizing sunrise/sunset view from Poon Hill
- Stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and other Himalayan peaks
- Walk past the stunning Gurung villages resting on the lap of a chain of Himalayas
- Grab a chance to walk inside and explore Annapurna Conservation Area
- Catch a sight of different flora and Fauna of Annapurna region
- Freshen up in the hot spring of Jhinu danda
- Explore the farms, pastures of the Ghorepani, Chhomrong villages
| Days | Itinerary | Altitude | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival at Kathmandu | 1300 meters | - |
| 2 | Kathmandu sightseeing tour | 1300 meters | - |
| 3 | Fly to Pokhara - Drive to Nayapul - Trek to Ulleri | 2050 meters | 30 minutes flight, 2 hours drive and 5-6 hours trek |
| 4 | Ulleri - Ghorepani | 2750 meters | 4-5 hours |
| 5 | Ghorepani - Tadapani | 2700 meters | 6-7 hours |
| 6 | Tadapani - Chhomrong | 2170 meters | 6 hours |
| 7 | Chhomrong - Bamboo | 2310 meters | 4-5 hours |
| 8 | Bamboo - Deurali | 3230 meters | 3-4 hours |
| 9 | Deurali - Annapurna Base Camp | 4130 meters | 5-6 hours |
| 10 | Annapurna Base Camp - Bamboo | 2310 meters | 7-8 hours |
| 11 | Bamboo - Jhinu Danda | 1760 meters | 5-6 hours |
| 12 | Trek to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara | 1400 meters | 6 hours trek, 2 hours drive |
| 13 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu | 1300 meters | 6-7 hrs drive by tourist bus |
| 14 | Final Departure | - | - |
<p><strong>Maximum Altitude:</strong> 1300 meters</p><p></p><p>Most of your trips to Nepal begins from Kathmandu as the only International Airport in the country is in Kathmandu. Wherever you come from you will first land at Kathmandu. Once you land, our representative will pick you and drop you to a fine hotel in Thamel.</p><p></p><p>After freshening up you can take a short stroll around the alley of Thamel. In the evening we will have a short tea meet up session and we will give you details of the trek. You will also meet your guide and know about him\her.</p><p></p>
<p>This is the day where you will get to explore the cultural and historical beauties of the Kathmandu valley. It includes exploring the three popular Durbar squares, Bouddhanath Stupa, Swyambhunath, Pashupatinath temple and so on. In the evening you can do the last minute shopping for the trek if you forgot to pack something important.</p>
<p><strong>Maximum Altitude:</strong> 2050 meters, Ulleri</p><p></p><p><strong>Flight Duration:</strong> 30 minutes</p><p></p><p><strong>Travel Duration: </strong>2 hours drive</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration:</strong> 6 hours</p><p></p><p>The next morning you will take a 30 minutes flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The Pokhara flight will allow you to enjoy the eagle-eye view of the Pokhara valley and the chain of Himalayas. Then you will leave for Nayapul, the trek head for your trek.</p><p></p><p></p><p>You can take a local bus or rent a taxi from Pokhara Bus Park and reach Nayapul in about 2 hours. The drive takes you along the bumpy roads where you will get to explore the typical villages of Annapurna region. Nayapul is the point where you will be entering the Annapurna Conservation Area. So, there’s a checkpoint at Birethanti where you have to submit your trek permits to enter the region.</p><p></p><p></p><p>From Birethanti your real trek starts along the winding trails on the bank of Modi Khola. You walk past many boulders and the rugged pathways to reach the foot of popular Ulleri stairs. After hours of an uphill climb, you will reach the Ulleri village for your stop of the day. There are enough tea houses with the best services in the village.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Maximum Altitude: </strong>2874 meters, Ghorepani</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>4-5 hours</p><p></p><p>The next morning leaving the cozy bed you will enjoy a warm breakfast in Ulleri. Then leave for your next destination of the day, Ghorepani village. On walking, you proceed the flat trails which pass through the lush forests of rhododendron and other wildflowers. The small rivulets and waterfalls on the side of the trail add a bliss to your trek.</p><p></p><p>After following the jungle trail with the proceeding locals and Donkeys you will reach Ghorepani village in about 4-5 hours.</p><p></p><p>If you reach the place, you can hike to Poon Hill to catch the sunset views. Or, you can take rest in your comfortable bed in any tea houses in Ghorepani.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Maximum Altitude: </strong>2630 meters, Tadapani</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>6-7 hours</p><p></p><p>Early in the dawn, you will wake up from your bed at Ghorepani to leave for Poon Hill, 3210 meters, to catch the sunrise views. It is an hours hike from the village to the viewpoint of Poonhill. The sunrise view from behind the Fishtail mountain slowly lightening the Dhaulagiri ranges is the most enticing scene to look at.</p><p></p><p>You will be amazed to see the changing hues of the sky and the mountains during the sunrise. After enjoying the scenic views, you will leave for your tea house. There you will have your breakfast and leave for the next destination - Tadapani.</p><p></p><p>En route you walk through Gurung hill which is also called as second Poon Hill. The place offers the most panoramic views of the chain of Himalayas in the Annapurna region. On moving further you walk through the dense forests and the scattered settlements. The route for today is mostly downhill with a final ascend of about 30 minutes before you reach the Tadapani village.</p><p></p><p>Many tea houses at Tadapani await for your arrival with a warm bed and the contending hospitality.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Maximum Altitude: </strong>2170 meters, Chhomrong</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>6 hours</p><p></p><p>Waking with the first rays you get to enjoy the scenic sight of sunbeams falling over Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre from your bed in Tadapani village. After enjoying your breakfast you start your trek for the day. The trail from Tadapani village is a downhill climb most of the time but the trail is quite easier and relishing as well.</p><p></p><p>En route you will walk through the typical settlements of Gurung people on the backdrop of the giant Himalayas. Continuing the winding trail past different villages you will reach Chhomrong village in about 6 hours.</p><p></p><p>Chhomrong is the starting point of your trek to Annapurna Base Camp where the different routes for ABC trek meet up.</p><p></p><p>Enjoying the natural beauty, waterfalls, and the mountain views you will spend the night in a tea house there.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Maximum Altitude: </strong>2310 meters, Bamboo</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration:</strong> 4-5 hours</p><p></p><p>After the morning breakfast at Chhomrong, you will pack your bags and start the trek for the day. Climbing down the stairs of Chhomrong village you follow the route to Sinuwa village. On walking through the local settlements of Sinuwa people you walk along the flat trails through the lush forest. After following the route on the side of Modi Khola, you will reach Bamboo village in 4-5 hours.</p><p></p><p>You will spend the night at Bamboo in one of the finest tea houses with satisfactory services.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Maximum Altitude: </strong>3230 meters, Deurali</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>3-4 hours</p><p></p><p>After the breakfast, the next day, its time to follow the road that takes you to Ceurali. The final stop before you leave for the Base Camp. En route you will walk through Himalaya village where you will stop for a lunch. And 2 hours walk from Himalaya you will reach Deurali. On reaching the village, you will find around 5-6 tea houses with a warm bed and a comforting meal. Overnight stay at a tea house in Deurali.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Altitude: </strong>4130 meters, ABC</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>5-6 hours</p><p></p><p>Early in the morning you leave the tea house in Deurali and follow the rock trails through the foot of towering hillocks and avalanche risk areas. So, during this point of the route, you must walk carefully. After walking from Deurali you will reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, 3700 meters, in about 3 hours. You will take a break there and have some lunch in the tea house. Then leave for your final destination Annapurna Base Camp.</p><p></p><p>As you leave MBC you start to enjoy the 360-degree views of different mountain peaks and the extended pastures.</p><p></p><p>Today, you will sleep on the lap of Annapurna ranges in any one of the two tea houses in the Base Camp. Such a blissful night it is, isn't it?</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Altitude: </strong>1736 meters, Bamboo</p><p></p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>7-8 hours</p><p></p><p>The next morning you wake up early to enjoy the sunrise views over the mountain peaks. You will enjoy the captivating views of Annapurna ranges, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre and so on.</p><p></p><p>After enjoying the morning breakfast on the lap of these chain of mountains you walk back to the Bamboo village for around 7-8 hours. To reach the Bamboo village you walk through Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan villages. Overnight in Bamboo.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Altitude: </strong>1760 meters, Jhinu Danda</p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>5-6 hours</p><p><strong>Travel Duration: </strong>3 hours drive</p><p></p><p>After breakfast in Bamboo, you will leave for the hot water spring at Jhinu danda after following the routes through Sinuwa and Chhomrong. The hot water spring is about 1 hour continuous descend across the stone stairs from Chhomrong village.</p><p></p><p>Once in the spring, you will get to dive into the hot water pool and relax your tiring body. After the energizing hot bath in the spring, you will spend the night in a tea house in Jhinu Danda.</p><p></p>
<p><strong>Altitude: </strong>1400 meters, Pokhara</p><p><strong>Trek Duration: </strong>6 hours</p><p><strong>Travel Duration: </strong>1 hours drive</p><p></p><p>Crossing the long suspension bridge of Jhinu danda you proceed your trek back home. On following the waves of Modi Khola. Walking past different villages like Sinu danda, Phedi, Lumle you will reach Nayapul in 6 hours. At Nayapul you will finally give rest to your feet. You’ll take a 2 hours drive back to Pokhara. And chill in the Pokhara in the evening.</p><p></p>
<p>Enjoying your time of relaxation at Pokhara, you will take the tourist bus to Kathmandu. This is about 6 hours journey to with beautiful landscape and river views . At Kathmandu, you can take a stroll in the evening in the different streets of Thamel. Then you will join our farewell dinner where you will get to share your trek memories.</p>
<p>The day has come for you to bid farewell to this Himalayan land. Our representative will drop you at the Airport at least 3 hours before your flight. Have a nice flight!</p>
Cost Included
- Airport pick up and drop off service by a private tourists vehicle
- flight to Pokhara
- Tourist Bus from Pokhara-Kathmandu
- ACAP and TIMS card fee
- A professional English speaking guide
- 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara
- Accomodation in tea houses during the trek
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner while on trek
- All government taxes, vat and service charges
Cost Excludes
- Nepal Entry Visa Fee
- International Airfare
- Accommodation in kathmandu
- Personal Travel Insurance
- Personal gear for trekking
- Personal Expenses (Soft and alcoholic drinks, snacks, laundry, telephone bills etc.)
- Gratitudes to the guide and porter
Q1. How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp Trekking?
Actually, Annapurna Base Camp trek is not that hard. The difficulty level depends upon your physical fitness and previous trekking experience.
However, trek route includes steep climb uphill, downhill, and rocky path. This requires physical fitness and stamina and most importantly mental fitness. Thus, a good exercise and training program is essential.
Your training program should include physical strengthening, conditioning, balancing and so on.
We have a flexible itinerary with enough acclimatization and rest days before heading to higher elevations for your easy trekking.
Q2. How long does Annapurna Base Camp Trek take?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes 7 to 12 days, depending on your itinerary and length of walking days. Here’s a 15 days itinerary, starting from Nayapul and ascending up to Ghorepani and the famous viewpoint at Poon Hill.
You can also extend the itinerary from 20-22 days and opt Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is rewarding in itself.
Q3. How fit do I have to be for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
For Annapurna Base Camp trek, you don’t have to be a marathon runner, but you do have to be fit and healthy. During the trek, you may have to trek for 7-8 hours per day. For this trek, no any mountaineering skills are needed.
Q4. Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag?
If you cannot bear cold, I would suggest bringing your own sleeping bag. You can hire sleeping bags at Pokhara or Kathmandu and return after the completion of the trek. Though the tea houses provide thick blankets, in the freezing temperatures it may not be enough for you. So, carrying a light sleeping bag is wise in high altitude treks. You might want to check: what to bring for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Q5. What type of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
Annapurna Region is the second popular trekking destinations in Nepal. There is a huge flow of the trekkers and mountaineers from 1970’s onward so the trail is well established.
There are numerous nice, cozy, and well-furnished tea houses. Most of the tea houses have western toilet facilities with hot showers.
If you’re planning to trek in the peak trekking season (Spring and Autumn) make sure to do advance booking.
Q6. What type of food is available during the trek?
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll get a wide range of food. From Chinese, Continental, Italian, Newari to typical Nepali dish- Dal Bhat.
On the trail, especially at the lower region, you’ll get a variety of food menu. But as you reach the higher elevation the choices will be limited to local food menu like Dal-Bhat-Tarkari.
Q7. Can I get safe drinking water?
On the trail, almost all the tea houses provide boiled and filtered water. Mineral water is also available throughout the trail. Since the plastic bottles do not dispose easily which cause an environmental problem, we discourage purchase of mineral water bottle.
Likewise, along the trail there are enough water taps, you can use purification tablets to purify the drinking water. It is the better, safe, and cheap option.
Q8. Do I need a travel insurance?
Yes, before trek you should get your travel insurance from your respective country.
Make sure, the travel insurance covers everything associated with trek including emergency evacuation packages. This is very essential for your safety, as the weather in the mountains is totally unpredictable.
Also, if you’re insured, it’ll save you from hassles that may arise during the trek like loss of baggage, flight cancellation or interruptions, and the like.
Q9. What is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp?
The best time for Annapurna Base Camp trek is during the month of September to Mid-December and March to May. During these months, the climate is pleasant, with clear skies. You’ll get the stunning view of Mt. Annapurna and the surrounding peaks.
Q10. Can I trek in monsoon season?
Although the best season for trekking in the Annapurna region is spring and autumn, some tourists prefer monsoon season too. As the trail is less crowded, there are abundant choices in terms of accommodation. And flight booking can be done very easily.
During Monsoon, for few days you’ll encounter heavy rainfalls. But as you ascend further the rainfall decreases.
If you plan to trek during this season, then you should be prepared for the slippery and muddy trails and road blockage due to landslides or floods. Also, make sure you carry rain gears like raincoats, umbrella, and rain poncho.
Further, monsoon means an invitation to mosquitoes and leeches. Do not forget to carry along insect repellent and salts to combat leeches and mosquitoes.
Q11. What to do if I caught with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It generally occurs when people ascend too quickly over 3,000 m altitudes.
The basic symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, loss of appetite, and sleeplessness. You shouldn’t ignore these early symptoms, as it may lead to more serious conditions and may even lead to death.
The best solution for altitude sickness is descending to the lower altitude. Also, to ensure a minimal risk, you can walk at a slow pace, take enough rest, and drink plenty of water.
Q12. Do I need to hire a guide/porter?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek lies within one of the most popular and well-established trails of Nepal. Thus, it can be done with or without a guide.
However, it is recommended to hire a guide. A guide is a person who will help you in every aspect of the trek. S/he will share you information regarding the local culture, places, religion, and landscapes. They’re well familiar with the locals which will help you to communicate with them more comfortably.
Likewise, a porter is one who carries your backpack during the trekking period. With the help of them, you can enjoy your trek more comfortably.
Please kindly note you don’t have to overpack just because you aren’t carrying it.
Q13. Do I have to tip my guide/porter?
In Nepal, there is no hard and fast rule for tipping the guide or porter. However, at the end of the trek, if your guide or porter has done a good job and if you feel he deserves thank you, by all means, a tip is always appreciated.
Q14. Which permits are required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
For Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you need to obtain an entry permit from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) as well as TIMS card. You can get both these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These permits are essential as there are different checkpoints where you may be asked to disclose these permits. If you don’t have it you have to pay fine and buy these permits in higher cost.
Q15. How do I book for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
If the given itinerary on the websites suits you, then you can book online or email us. Also, if you want to customize your trip, we can plan itinerary as per your requirements. We are always ready to help you in customizing the trip, decide the best time to travel and choose the best trekking package as well.
For detailed info, you can directly call, Viber and WhatsApp at +977 9851060902 or send us an email at himalayasonfoot@gmail.com
For the Annapurna Base Camp trek, your checklist should include the following things:
Head
- Sun Hat
- Wool or Synthetic hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Headlamp
- Neck Warmer
- Scarf / Balaclava
Clothing
- Full and half sleeve T-shirts
- Lightweight expedition thermal tops
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Wind / Waterproof shell jacket
- Underwear (Breathable)
- Synthetic sports bras (for women)
- Lightweight expedition thermal bottoms
- Hiking shorts
- Trekking pants
- Windproof trousers
- Casual Pants
Hand
- Lightweight Inner Gloves (Fleece material)
- Water/Windproof Outer Gloves
Footwear
- Hiking Boots
- Trekking shoes/ sandals
- Hiking socks
- Thermal socks
- Gaiters (Optional)
Trekking Gears
- Duffel Bag
- Backpack
- Daypack
Sleeping Accessories
- Sleeping Bag
- Ear Plugs (Optional)
Other Accessories
- Trekking Poles
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp
- Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder
Personal Gear and Medication
- Trekking Towel
- Pee Bottle or Funnel (Optional)
- Small Locks
- Water Purification Tablets
- Diamox
- General Medication
- Basi First Aid Kit
- Sunscreen/ Lip Balm
- Baby wipes
- Toiletries
- Hand Sanitizer
- Feminine Hygiene Products
-
My friend and I had such a good time starting from Kathmandu. Everything was very well prepared. Mukti, the owner, took a very good care of us. Our guide Mr. Ram Giri, he is very helpful, polite, friendly and cheerful. We don’t have much experience in trekking but Ram is our best guide. He is experienced and has a good knowledge of the mountain. He is really good in managing time and can get us a room in teahouse all the time even in the peak season. Our porter, Guna and Bill, they are really nice and polite. Thank you for a wonderful 10 days trek to Poon hill and Annapurna basecamp. We will go back for everest basecamp in April 2019 and will definitely go with Himalayas on foot. -
Because of the very good experience with the Himalayas On Foot agency for the Manaslu Circuit we booked another trekking. This time we visited the famous Poon Hill, the not so famous but even more beautiful Muldai Peak and finally the ABC. The whole trek was organized fantastically! We had very nice accommodations and delicious food. We can highly recommend this nice trekking which is less exhausting than the Manaslu Circuit but shows as well beautiful mountain sceneries and Nepali culture. Thank you Himalayas On Foot for this amazing experience.
Write a Review Cancel reply
Thank you. Your review will appear after admin approves it.
Please fill all the fields.
