Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  1. Home
  2. Trekking
  3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is a moderate nature trek that starts at Phedi, a short drive of about 45 minutes from Pokhara, which takes you to the foot [Base Camp, 4130m] of Mt. Annapurna, one of the most magnificent peaks in the world. The trail takes you through fascinating traditional villages of Nepal’s ethnic communities of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali who will greet you very warmly if you cared to stop for a conversation. The hike continues through dense rhododendron forest with towering snowy peaks in the background. The return walk is even more interesting as the trek winds around different ridges towards Ghorepani, where you witness breathtaking views of an early morning sunrise where a red halo seeps through glistening gaps over the snow capped peaks of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri Mountains. The sceneries seen throughout this trek grace the landscape of the Himalayas where imagination defines the beauty of nature as an experience that can never be forgotten.

Itinerary at a glance

Day01: Arrival in kathmandu, Overnight at hotel with welcome dinner
Day02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Day03: Fly to Pokhara
Day04: Drive to Phedi, Trek to Dhampus [1700m] 
Day05: Trek to Landrung [1550m] 
Day06: Trek to Chomrong [2100m] 
Day07: Trek to Himalaya Hotel [2850m] 
Day08: Rest day
Day09: Trek to Machhapuchhare Base Camp [3700m] 
Day10: Trek to Annapurna South Base Camp [4130m]
Day11: Trek to Chomrong [2100m]
Day12: Trek to Ghandruk [1940m] 
Day13: Trek to Ghorepani [2880m] 
Day14: Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara:
Day15: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day16: Depart Kathmandu

 

Detailed Itinerary

16 Days / 15 Nights

Arrive Kathmandu

Meet, assist upon arrival in Kathmandu airport by our representative and escort to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Tribhuvan International airport

Tribhuvan International airport

kathmandu

Kathmandu

Sightseeing in Kathmandu 

AM: Proceed for sightseeing tour to Kathmandu city visiting, the ancient palace square also known as the Durbar Square where you will witness the ancient palaces and the temples, Kasthmandap temple made out of a single tree during ancient age, temple of the living goddesses the Kumari, etc. Later, proceed towards Swoyambhunath stupa, one of the Buddhist shrine and also known as the monkey temple situated on the hillock towards the west of Kathmandu and overlooking the Kathmandu valley. Unlike other stupas, this stupa has got a spiral shape which has typical significance.
 
PM: Proceed on to another city of the valley called Patan city which is also known as the city of fine arts where one can witness splendid artifacts of the medieval period. Afterwards, drive back to the Hotel and rest of the evening will be at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Fly to Pokhara

After Having breakfast, transfer to the domestic airport to connect the flight to Pokhara. It takes about 30 minutes to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. While flying to Pokhara, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of shimmering mountain ranges and spectacular landscapes. You will be met at Pokhara airport by your trekking crew and you will be transferred to Hotel. 
 
Rest of the day will remain at leisure to browse around.
Overnight at the hotel in Pokhara.

pokhara

Pokhara

phedi-dhampus

Dhampus

 Drive to Phedi, trek to Dhampus [1700m] 

In Pokhara, transfer to Phedi. From there onward begins your trekking in Annapurna mountain range. As you climb uphill, you will bask in the splendor of nature and your trails become more adventurous. Finally, after walking for 3 hours, you encounter several roadside teashops and at last your trail leads to the Gurung village of Dhampus. Here concludes your trip of the day. 
Overnight at Tea House.

Trek to Landrung [1550m] 

Your path narrows as it skirts round a ridge snout. On proceeding further, you pass through Pothana and reach Deurali. At this point, you find yourself high up on the East side of the Modi Khola cascading down the Annapurna Circuit Sanctuary surrounded by complete ambience of nature. Continue with your trekking for four hours until you reach picturesque Gurung settlement of Landrung. Spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli instill more zest and excitement into your adventure spirit.

Overnight at Tea House.

langrungee

Landrung

chomrongee

Chomrong

Trek to Chomrong [2100m] 

From Landrung, you march along the mountain path of stone steps, pass through a hamlet, cross a suspension bridge and then you come across dense forest of bamboo. Finding yourself in complete isolation amidst the serenity of nature can be quite an experience. Your trek does not stop here. After trekking for a while, you approach teahouses at Jhinu where you can rest and enjoy a drink or snacks. Thereafter, you resume your trek to the north, descending Daaulu and after having walked for five hours you will find yourself at Chomrong. From Chomrong you can have prominent and mesmerizing view of Machhapuchhare.

Overnight at Tea House.

Trek to Himalaya Hotel [2850m] 

Crossing Chomrong Khola, you continue trekking along steep stone steps. On your trails, you bypass rhododendron-covered ridge path, mountainous terrains and forests of bamboo. As you savor awe-inspiring views of Annapurna mountain ranges and Machhapuchhare, you gather more energy and enthusiasm to explore further. During your five-hour walking, you cross Modi Khola, pass through Khuldigar, Bamboo and Dovan and finally reach Himalaya Hotel where you wrap up your trip for the day.

Overnight at Tea house.

Annapurna

Annapurna

chomrong

Chomrong

Rest day

You spend your entire day taking complete rest, planning for forthcoming trips and getting accustomed to your trekking destinations. 
Overnight at Tea House.

Trek to Machhapuchhare Base Camp [3700m] 

Your next destination is to reach Machhapuchhare base camp. 
You ascend and descend as your route opens up new trails. On climbing steeply for a while, you approach Hinku Cave. This course follows zigzag paths of stones. After walking for 3 to 4 hours, you enter the Annapurna circuit Sanctuary, a huge amphitheater enclosed by a solid wall of snow-capped peaks which include Annapurna I, II, III and IV and the fish tail spire of Machhapuchhare. Several lodges and Annapurna inns are spotted at Deorali and Bagar. Finally, you will find yourself at Machhapuchhare Base Camp, a grassy moraine platform. 
Overnight at Tea House.

Machhapuchhare

Machhapuchhare

annapurna

Annapurna

 Trek to Annapurna South Base Camp [4130m]

On hiking the Annapurna circuit trail for 2 hours, you descend a small ridge branching out from the mountain pass to mountainside with widespread terraced fields showcasing tranquil meadows and lush fertile farming land. As you reach Annapurna South Base Camp, witness awesome picturesque landscapes, majestic panoramic view of snow-capped mountainous peaks and varied Himalayan cultural settings tucked beneath the southern slopes of the Annapurna massif. Thereafter, you head back down to Himalaya Hotel. 

Overnight at Tea House.

 Trek to Chomrong [2100m]

As you continue climbing along the forested ridge residing in the vicinity of chains of cloud-snaring hills, a grass-covered slope opens up leading to a course descending across a rock-strewn area to the riverbed of Kali Gandaki. Kali Gandaki is the world’s deepest river gorge of great bio-geographical significance regarded as demarcating Eastern and Western avifauna. The trail up the Modi Khola passes through dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo across Annapurna mountain range. After trekking for 5 hours, you reach Chomrong. From Chomrong you can have prominent and mesmerizing view of Machhapuchhare.

Overnight at Tea House.

chomrong

Chomrong

ghandruk

Ghandruk

Trek to Ghandruk [1940m] 

From Chomrong, we take an alternative route back to Pokhara, via Ghorepani. As you skirt through flatland, forests and terraced fields, a suspension bridge comes your way. On crossing this suspension bridge over Khumnu Khola, you enter beautiful village of Ghandruk after walking for 3 to 4 hours. You get to witness unique culture, tradition and custom of Gurung community. Ghandruk offers excellent views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhre. 
Overnight at Tea House.

gorepani

Ghorepani

Trek to Ghorepani [2880m]

From Ghandruk, you proceed further along steep trails. Nature spreads exotic sight of majestic snow-capped mountain peaks, lush vegetation and rich plant life before you. You climb through rhododendron forest to Deorali [3100m] and reach a hamlet and cultivated fields. Continue walking for 7 – 8 hours and finally you will find yourself in Ghorepani.

Overnight at Tea House.

 

 

 Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara

After savoring the mesmerizing sight of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak and other Himalayan giants from the popular vantage point of Poon Hill [3195m], you leave Ghorepani and march ahead for Nayapul. You further descend towards Birethanti. Birethanti lies stretched beside the Modi River and has resourceful town. On your trails of stone steps, you pass through dense forest and a small village of Ulleri. From Ulleri, a very steep section [with 3767 steps!] leads down to Hille on the Bhurungdi Khola. Forty minutes beyond Birethanti, you come to the main road from where drive to drive to Pokhara. 
Overnight at The hotel in Pokhara.

nayapul

Nayapul

kathmandu-pokhara

Pokhara

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Free till departure and later, transfer to the airport in Pokhara to connect the flight to Kathmandu. Receive upon arrival in Kathmandu by our representative and escort to hotel.Rest of the day will remain at leisure to browse around the area.

Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Depart Kathmandu

Free till departure and later, transfer to the International airport to connect the flight to onward destination.

Departure

Departure

includes

Equipments, clothings for porter.

12 days trek as specified in the itinerary with the accommodations at the Tea Houses on the trail on full board basis (includes breakfast, lunch and dinner).

Kathmandu/ Pokhara/ Kathmandu airfares.

Sherpa guide and Sherpa porters for the Trek portion.

Equipment, clothings for porter.

Prevailing government taxes, ACAP fee, Tims card fee.

excludes

Any international airfares, Airport tax, Visa fees etc.

Insurances of any kind and any extra cost arises during the trip due to the natural calamities, political disorder or due to any reason which is beyond the control of Yacca Travels & Tours.

Excess baggage charges more than 16 kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in domestic flights

Any other services which is not specified in the COST INCLUDES section above.

Expenses of personal nature such as alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages, telephone & laundry bills, camera fees etc.

Gallery

TRIP INFO

GENERAL INFORMATION
TRIP GRADE - Moderate to fairly challenging
This is a long trek that goes right into high mountain country. Physically quite tiring, it involves approx 6-8 hours trekking along rocky ridges. No previous experience is required, you should be moderately fit, used to some regular exercise and enjoy walking in the high altitude conditions.
TREK TYPE
Tea House or Lodge Trek 
Includes: Accommodation in Lodge, guide, porters and all meals
ACCOMMODATION
Trekking in the Annapurna region does not need tremendous logistics in terms of accommodation as you will find plenty of clean and friendly lodges along the trail. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. Facilities in tea houses are limited but good enough to offer you a comfortable stay and hygienic meals. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We will accommodate you in a local lodge available each day. We send a porter ahead of us to book the required rooms for the group (rooms cannot be booked in advance). Please remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary.
MEALS & DRINKING WATER ON A TEA HOUSE TREK 
On this trek we provide standard breakfast, lunch and three course dinner, tea or coffee will also be included with each meal. Your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the best value meals possible. Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not normally extensive. Most teahouses offer a variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There will also be plenty of snacks available such as biscuits, chocolate and soft drinks and in some areas you will find fresh fruit in season. You can buy packaged water (bottled mineral water) from local lodge and shop en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills. 
LUGGAGE WHILE TREKKING
During the trek your main luggage will be carried by porters. You simply carry a day pack with water bottle, camera, sun-screen, spare jacket, etc. - a small load that allows full enjoyment of the trek. A trek bag is ideal for your main luggage, plus a small lockable bag for travel clothes or anything that you do not need during trek which you can leave at hotel’s locker room/safe deposit box in Kathmandu for free of charge. 
TREKKING CREW
On tea house trek you will be accompanied by a team of local crew whose aim is to make the trek as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. The crew consists of a local leader (Sherpa guide) and a team of porters to carry all your gear. On average, there will be a ratio of one porter to every two trekkers. Sherpa guide speaks reasonable amount of English, good enough to explain you about the places, local culture or any sight that catches your eyes. 
PERSONAL EXPENSES 
Personal expenses depend largely on the type of trek, duration and the trekking region. 
On this fixed scheduled trek breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided. You only need money for table drinks (alcoholic/non alcoholic beverages), snacks while walking (a few smaller shops are available along the trail in some areas) tips, souvenirs, hot shower (available in some places). 
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. As a suggestion, we advise you to allocate 5 - 10% of the total tour cost as tips.
COMMUNICATION  
One can use the cell phone at almost all the area now-a-days.
TREKKING EQUIPMENT 
For trekking in the Annapurna region, you will need walking boots, sleeping bag (3 seasons), waterproof jacket and trousers, fleece jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, water bottle, sun-screen and day pack. 
TYPICAL DAY ON TREK
Each morning after packing our bags and a hearty breakfast, we set off on the day’s walk. After walking for 3-4 hours we stop for lunch at around midday. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The remainder of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, doing a bit of washing or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day’s adventures, before retiring for a well-earned sleep. 
CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO GO   
The best seasons to trek in the Annapurna region are Autumn (from mid-September till November end) and Spring (from the beginning of March until mid-May). Temperatures will drop considerably as you trek higher everyday. The nights are cold (between -20 C to 5C) but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 30C).  The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon, disappearing at night. Trekking during the monsoon and winter is not recommended; as the visibility during monsoon is limited, high pass (Thorung la- 5416m) gets covered up with snow during winter.
PEOPLE & CULTURE 
The Gurungs form the largest group in the Annapurna region. They come from Tibeto burman stock. Although essentially Buddhists some Gurungs have converted to Hinduism. They inhabit the higher northern slopes of the Annapurna, Lamjung, Chuli and hills around Ganesh Himal.  
The immediate vicinity of Pokhara is largely populated by Chettris and Bahuns (Brahmins).They also live around the historic site of the old Gorkha kingdom. The Magars inhabit the lower trail between Baglung and Dana. They live high on the steep ridges along the tributaries of the Kali Gandaki. 
Another ethnic group of this region is the Thakalis. Known throughout the country as accomplished hoteliers and skilled traders, they are noted for their aggressive trading spirit. They make up one of the few richer groups of people in Nepal. The Jomsom trek passes through Thak Khola, the Thakali homeland. In the valley of the Muktinath live the Baragaun Bhotiya. Their lifestyle is similar to that of the Tibetans. Another group of people who share a close affinity to the Tibetans are the Lopa people of Mustang, north of Kagbeni. Some of them practice the ancient pre-Buddhist religion of Bon which is infused with animistic and shamanic belief and ritual. The people living in the upper Marshyangdi valley are generally known as Mananges. 
ITINERARY CHANGES  
Depending on the prevailing situation, itinerary can be modified to some extent after consulting with your guide. However, the date of trek completion should always coincide with the original itinerary.  You should keep in mind that this is an adventure trip into the remotest region, where many unforeseen events may contribute to the need for a change in itinerary. In such cases, we or your guide will suggest the best alternative similar to your original.
TREK DURATION    
We ensure liability as per indicated itinerary and list of services. If the holiday is cut short or completed earlier than the projected period upon client’s wish, we shall not be responsible or make refund against unutilized days or services. Clients need to pay extra for Hotels/services incurred in  such cases.
HEALTH ISSUES
As vaccination requirements change frequently, we suggest you to consult your doctor at least 2 months prior to the beginning of your trip. We recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis and polio.  The main health consideration in high altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You may experience some mild symptoms initially, such as headache, lethargy, nausea and difficulty sleeping, but these should lessen within a few days. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), people take pills called ‘Diamox’. You can also use these pills after consulting with your doctor and purchase them. Our itinerary will allow your body to acclimatize properly and to handle the low oxygen rate.
 
For your service, we carry a medical kit with standard prescribed medicines along with a users’ manual which you can use upon your own risk. We do not take any medical liability since our staffs are not qualified to prescribe medicines. If you have ever suffered from altitude sickness, or have a heart or breathing complaint, we highly recommend you consult your doctor about your suitability for traveling to Annapurna before booking. We suggest that you take some pain-killing pills with you and enough medicine for cold, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Some nasal ointment and throat-moistening pills will greatly be of help for those who are sensitive to chilly or freezing weather conditions. Age is no barrier to take an unforgettable Annapurna Circuit Trek.
RESCUE / EVACUATIONS 
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; we will do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back to Kathmandu.
INSURANCE
Before joining a tour, we recommend you to take a travel insurance which should cover cancellation, medical expenses, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Wonderful environment of the Himalayas is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing population density and numbers of trekkers threaten the very beauty of Nepal. At Yacca Travels & Tours, we are extremely conscious about the environment and aim to minimize our impact as much as possible. As deforestation is one of the greatest environmental threats, we do not have camp fires and use kerosene for cooking as an alternative fuel to wood. We also discourage trekkers from using wood-fuelled hot showers in lodges along the way. Many lodges, however, now provide solar hot showers, a far more eco-friendly alternative.
 
Garbage disposal is another major problem and some of the busier trails can, at times, appear strew with litter. Our staff members are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices. We carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily burnt. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy.
TRIP EXTENSIONS
In addition to your trek, we can organize extensions both within Nepal and other neighboring countries. You may want to try water rafting or a jungle safari in Nepal or Nepal Cultural Tour. You may as well take a trip to Tibet, India or Bhutan, whichever appeals more to you. Since the trek ends in Pokhara, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal, it would be nice and relaxing for you to spend a day or two taking in the sights and sounds of this scenic city.
CARE FOR PORTERS AND STAFF
We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going into high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipment. We run the trek according to the guidelines of the International Porter Protection group (IPPG - www.ippg.net). 

© Copyright 2019. Yacca Travel & Tours. All right reserved.

Website by: Longtail e-media

Leave a Message
Leave a Message