Where is the Annapurna Base Camp?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through diverse landscapes, terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages, leading to the base camp of the majestic Annapurna mountain range at an elevation of 4130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level.

How long does the trek take to complete?

The trek usually takes around 7 to 12 days, depending on the starting point and pace of the trek. It covers a distance of approximately 110-115 kilometers (68-71 miles).

When is the best time to do the trek?

The best times for the Annapurna Base Camp trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning views.

Do I need a guide and porter for the trek?

While it’s not mandatory to hire a guide and porter, many trekkers choose to hire a guide and porter for convenience and support. A guide can provide valuable information about the route and local culture, while a porter can carry your heavy backpack.

What is the level of difficulty for the trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. It involves some steep ascents and descents, but it doesn’t require technical climbing skills. Basic fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.

What permits are required for the trek?

You will need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits are usually arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.

What is the accommodation like during the ABC trek?

Accommodation along the trail ranges from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges. These provide simple rooms with twin beds and shared bathrooms. It’s advisable to carry a sleeping bag for extra warmth.

What should I pack for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a down jacket, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, a good-quality backpack, a water bottle, and personal medications. A detailed packing list is recommended

Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern as the trek takes you to higher elevations. It’s important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of altitude sickness and know when to descend if necessary.

Are there emergency facilities along the ABC trail?

Some teahouses and lodges have basic first-aid facilities. However, it’s important to have your own travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and helicopter evacuations in case of severe illness or injury.

Annapurna Base Camp Classic Trek | ABC Trek via Poon Hill

Journey overview

The experience at a glance

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days is a classic Himalayan adventure that combines the famous sunrise view of Poon Hill, Gurung and Magar villages, rhododendron forests, and the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary. As a long trip with more time on the trail than a short ABC itinerary, you can see the changing landscape and mountain culture of the Annapurna area before arriving at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).

The trip begins from Pokhara and is on the popular trail leading to Ghorepani, which passes through hills, mountain villages, and forests that get very colorful in the spring rhododendron season. One of the early highlights is the morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), one of Nepal's best-known Himalayan views. On a clear morning, the sun is out and rolling across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and there are clear views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.

Instead of returning to Pokhara after Poon Hill, the trek continues through Tadapani to Chhomrong, a very nice Gurung village and a gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. From here, the trail descends and climbs through the Modi Khola Valley, passing through Bamboo, Dovan, and Himalaya as the surrounding mountains become progressively higher and closer.

Beyond Deurali, the scenery changes dramatically. Forested hills gradually give way to a rugged alpine landscape as you approach Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m). From there, the trail enters the Annapurna Sanctuary, a beautiful deep mountain basin framed by some of the biggest peaks in the Himalayas.

That is the point at which you reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. As you approach Annapurna I (8,091m), the tenth highest mountain in the world, you are surrounded by an imposing wall of mountains. Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the iconic summit of Machhapuchhre are visible from above. Sunrise at base camp can be particularly memorable in the face of snow-covered mountains.

After a visit to Annapurna Sanctuary, the journey continues back down the valley. The return to Jhinu Danda gives a further reward to trekkers and the warmer conditions for the trek to continue to Pokhara.

The '12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek' is suitable for active travelers in search of an active trekking experience instead of the quickest way to base camp. Walking days typically involve a couple of hours at high mountain ranges with stone staircases, steep hills, and a lot of elevation change.

This is why this itinerary is so enjoyable. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill combines two of the most celebrated trekking experiences in the Annapurna region—the sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill, walking through traditional villages and forests, through the deep Modi Khola Valley, and finally into the epic Annapurna Sanctuary.

When there is enough time and the traveler gets to experience more than just getting to base camp, the 'Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days' is a wonderful journey through the heart of the Annapurna region.

The field notes

A journey with rhythm

Private guiding, thoughtful pacing, and enough room to absorb each place rather than simply pass through it.

PrivateThoughtfulLocal

Time away: 12 Day(s)
Travel rhythm: Immersive pace
Highest moment: 3,700 m
Places to call home: 2

Trip highlights

What makes this journey

01
Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) – Soak up the setting sun in the base camp, which is surrounded by huge Himalayan peaks.
02
Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210m) - See amazing sunrise views from Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre.
03
Annapurna Sanctuary - Tour in a mountain amphitheater with glaciers, peaks and alpine landscapes.
04
Gurung Villages & Local Culture - Experience traditional mountain villages, warm hospitality, and authentic Himalayan culture.
05
Jhinu Natural Hot Springs - Relax at natural hot springs after a long trek to the Annapurna area.

Places covered

Destinations on this trip

The places this journey moves through, in the order they shape the experience.

Kathmandu
Pokhara
Ghorepani Poonhill
Chhomrong
Himalaya
MBC - ABC

Day by day

12 days

Walk the route one day at a time — meals, overnight stays, and the details that shape each stage.

Private vehicle & English-speaking guide throughout · Nayapul to Siwai

Trip essentials

What your journey covers

A clear split between what we arrange and what you budget yourself.

Airport transfers – Pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner throughout the Annapurna base camp trek
Accommodation in teahouse or lodges during trekking
English speaking license holder trekking guide and his accommodation, meals, salary, insurance, and other related expenses.
Private Transportation whenever is necessary including Kathmandu to Pokhara (Flight is extra)
1 Porter for every 2 trekkers, including the porter’s accommodation, meals, salary, insurance, and other related expenses. (A porter supplement applies for a single trekker)
TIMS card, National Park/Conservation Area permit fees, and all applicable government taxes.
2-night deluxe accommodation Pokhara and Kathmandu with Breakfast

International Flight and Departure Tax
Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Add-On: Flight to/from Pokhara
Personal gears and clothing such as sleeping bag, walking stick and etc
Travel/Medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Rescue if needed
Personal expenses caused by weather, laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks, tips, etc.