- Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and begin your adventure in the heart of the Annapurna region.
- Walk through traditional Gurung villages and experience the culture and mountain lifestyle of Nepal's Annapurna foothills.
- Explore Ghandruk, one of the largest and most well-preserved Gurung villages in the region, with close views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
- Pass through Chhomrong, the gateway village to the Annapurna Sanctuary, with views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Fishtail peak.
- Trek through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests, crossing suspension bridges and following the Modi Khola deep into the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Walk beneath towering peaks including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m and stand inside the dramatic mountain amphitheater at the base of the world's 10th-highest peak.
- Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda on the descent, a well-earned reward after days of high-altitude trekking.
Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek
Trip Highlights
Detailed Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is your chance to walk into the heart of Nepal's Annapurna Sanctuary and see one of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the Himalaya. Over 10 days, you follow ancient trails through Gurung villages, bamboo forests, river valleys, suspension bridges, and high alpine terrain before reaching the great mountain amphitheater at 4,130 m.
With sweeping views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the sacred Fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre throughout the journey, the trek is as much about the trail as it is the destination. From the first steps out of Ghandruk to the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda on the descent, every day brings something worth remembering.
About Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp
Your Annapurna Base Camp adventure starts in Kathmandu, where our team welcomes you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel. You can rest or explore the city before your flight to Pokhara the following morning. Kathmandu gives you a brief introduction to Nepal before the trek takes you deeper into the mountains.
The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes around 25 to 30 minutes, and on a clear day offers views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges from the window. From Pokhara Airport, you continue by private vehicle toward Kimche, roughly 2.5 to 3 hours along the Pokhara–Baglung highway. A short uphill walk from Kimche brings you to Ghandruk, a large Gurung village at 1,940 m with wide views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
From Ghandruk, the trail descends toward the Kimrong Khola before climbing steadily to Chhomrong at 2,170 m. This traditional Gurung settlement is the last major village before the Annapurna Sanctuary and serves as the main permit checkpoint for the upper trail. The views from Chhomrong across the valley toward the Annapurna massif are among the finest on the entire route.
Leaving Chhomrong, the trail drops sharply on stone steps toward the Chhomrong Khola, crosses a suspension bridge, and climbs through forest to Sinuwa. From Sinuwa, the path enters the humid gorge of the Modi Khola, winding through towering bamboo groves and dense rhododendron forest past Bamboo and Dovan before reaching Himalaya at 2,920 m. This long forest section is one of the most atmospheric parts of the trek, shaded and cool with waterfalls and birdsong throughout.
Beyond the Himalaya, the forest thins as the trail climbs toward Deurali at 3,230 m. This is where the Annapurna Sanctuary opens up, and the enclosed valley of the lower trail gives way to wide alpine terrain. The full scale of the surrounding peaks becomes clear for the first time, and the air is noticeably thinner.
From Deurali, the trail continues to Machhapuchhre Base Camp at 3,700 m, where the sacred Fishtail mountain rises directly above, and the full sweep of the Annapurna Sanctuary begins to reveal itself. The snow-covered ridges form a natural wall on every side, and the silence up here is something most trekkers are not expecting. A final gradual climb from MBC leads into the heart of the sanctuary and up to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m. The amphitheater of high peaks here — Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the sacred Machhapuchhre — makes this one of the most extraordinary places in the Himalaya to simply stand and take in what is in front of you.
The return journey descends back through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, and the forest corridor toward Bamboo. The descent is faster than the climb but long and demanding on the legs, particularly on the stone sections between Himalaya and Sinuwa. After a night at Bamboo, the trail continues the following day through Sinuwa and Chhomrong before dropping steeply to Jhinu Danda at 1,780 m.
Jhinu Danda is well known for its natural hot springs, located a short walk below the village beside the Modi Khola. After days at altitude, the warm water is a genuine highlight of the return journey and a perfect place to rest before the final morning.
From Jhinu Danda, a short 20-minute walk to Samrung village brings the trekking portion of the journey to an end. A private vehicle takes you back to Pokhara, where you have the remainder of the day to relax by Phewa Lake or explore the Lakeside area. The following morning, your vehicle departs for the road journey back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway.
Once back in Kathmandu, you can explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or simply rest before your departure. On your final day, our team transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight home.
Expert Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu & Hotel Transfer
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal and the starting point of your Annapurna Base Camp trek. After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from the World Alpine Treks will meet you outside the arrivals terminal and transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle.
After checking in, take some time to rest after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the nearby streets of Thamel, pick up any last-minute trekking items, or relax at the hotel.
There is no trekking today. Use the afternoon and evening to settle in and prepare for an early start tomorrow, when you fly to Pokhara and head into the Annapurna region.
Day 2 Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara & Drive to Ghandruk
After breakfast, head to Tribhuvan International Airport for your domestic flight to Pokhara. The flight takes around 25 to 30 minutes, and on a clear morning you can see the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges from the window.
From Pokhara Airport, you board a private vehicle and drive toward the Annapurna foothills. The road follows the Pokhara–Baglung highway through terraced hillsides and river settlements before reaching Kimche, roughly 2.5 to 3 hours from the city.
From Kimche, a short trail climbs uphill through farmland and forested paths to Ghandruk at 1,940 m. This large Gurung village is one of the most culturally rich settlements in the Annapurna region, with stone-paved streets, traditional homes, a cultural museum, and wide views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. After checking into your teahouse, explore the village in the evening and rest before your first full trekking day
Day 3 Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong
After breakfast, leave Ghandruk and follow the trail toward Chhomrong. The path descends from the village through terraced fields and rhododendron forest before dropping steadily toward the Kimrong Khola River crossing below.
After crossing the river at the bottom, the trail climbs back up through scattered settlements and forested slopes toward Chhomrong. The views widen gradually as you gain height on the far side of the valley.
Chhomrong at 2,170 m is the last major village before you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary. It sits on a wide ridge with direct views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, and serves as the main permit checkpoint for the upper trail. Your guide will have your ACAP permit ready for the checkpoint here. Check into your teahouse, have a good meal, and rest — tomorrow is one of the longer and more demanding walking days of the trek.
Day 4 Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya
From Chhomrong, the day begins with a steep descent down stone steps toward the Chhomrong Khola. The drop is continuous, and the steps are uneven in places, so trekking poles make a real difference from the start. After crossing a suspension bridge at the bottom, the trail climbs steeply through terraced fields and forest to Sinuwa at 2,360 m, a small ridge-top settlement above the river.
Past Sinuwa, the path enters the humid forest corridor of the Modi Khola gorge. The trail winds through towering bamboo groves and dense rhododendron forest, crossing small streams with waterfalls audible from the hillside. You pass through Bamboo at 2,310 m, a quiet cluster of teahouses in a shaded forest clearing, where you can stop for lunch and rest your legs.
After Bamboo, the trail climbs through more forest to Dovan at 2,600 m before continuing upward. The final section from Dovan to Himalaya at 2,920 m is a steady climb through thick tree cover with the sound of the river below. Himalaya is a small lodge settlement surrounded by forest and waterfalls. The air is noticeably cooler at this altitude, and altitude effects may begin to be felt for the first time. Have dinner, drink plenty of water, and rest well before tomorrow's push to base camp.
Day 5 Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp
From the Himalaya, the trail continues, following the Modi Khola upstream as the valley narrows and the forest begins to thin. The air becomes noticeably cooler and thinner with every hour of climbing. As you gain elevation, the dense tree cover gradually opens up to rock and low alpine scrub.
You reach Deurali at 3,230 m, where the valley opens out, and the surroundings change completely. The forest ends, the terrain turns rocky and wide, and you are now walking into the lower gateway of the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail continues across open ground toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp at 3,700 m, with the sacred Fishtail peak rising directly above and the full Annapurna massif beginning to appear ahead.
From MBC, a final gradual climb leads you into the heart of the sanctuary and up to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the iconic Machhapuchhre form a complete circle of high peaks around you on all sides. There are no roads, no villages, and no sound except the wind and the occasional crack of ice from the glaciers above.
Take your time here. Walk around, take photographs, and let the scale of the place settle in. You have crossed forest trails, stone staircases, bamboo gorges, and alpine moraine to reach this point, and it deserves more than a hurried look. After spending time at base camp, return to your teahouse and rest for the long descent that begins tomorrow.
Day 6 Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
You wake up at base camp with the high peaks still catching the early light. Take a few quiet minutes to look around before breakfast, because this is your last morning inside the Annapurna Sanctuary. After eating, you begin the long descent back through Machhapuchhre Base Camp and down toward Deurali.
Below Deurali, the forest corridor returns. The trail drops through Himalaya and Dovan, and the air grows warmer and thicker with every hour of descent. The return is much faster than the climb, but the long stone sections between teahouses are demanding on the knees and joints. Trekking poles and a steady pace help protect your legs for the days ahead.
You pass back through Himalaya and Dovan, watching the landscape transform from open alpine terrain back into dense rhododendron and bamboo forest. By afternoon, you reach Bamboo at 2,310 m, where the noticeably warmer and oxygen-rich air is immediately welcome. Rest and sleep well here — the descent continues the next morning toward Jhinu Danda and the famous hot springs.
Day 7 Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda
From Bamboo, the trail climbs back through the forest toward Sinuwa, retracing the same path walked on the way in. After Sinuwa, you continue uphill through the forest and into the familiar stone-paved lanes of Chhomrong. The village feels different on the descent — warmer, busier, and with noticeably easier breathing after the high-altitude days.
From Chhomrong, the trail descends sharply on stone steps toward the Chhomrong Khola before turning downhill to the south. The descent to Jhinu Danda at 1,780 m is steep, and the steps are long, but the promise of warm water at the bottom keeps most trekkers moving at a comfortable pace.
Jhinu Danda is best known throughout the Annapurna region for its natural hot springs, located a short walk below the village along the banks of the Modi Khola. After days of cold teahouse showers at altitude, soaking in warm spring water beside a rushing river is one of the simplest and most satisfying moments of the entire trek. Return to your teahouse after the springs, enjoy dinner, and rest before your final morning in the mountains.
Day 8 Trek from Jhinu Danda to Samrung & Drive to Pokhara
After breakfast, you take a short walk from Jhinu Danda to Samrung village, crossing a suspension bridge over the Khimrong Khola on a mostly flat trail. The walk takes around 20 minutes and brings your trekking to a simple and natural close.
A private vehicle will be waiting at Samrung to transfer you back to Pokhara. The road winds through the Annapurna foothills past terraced farmland and small river towns, with the drive taking roughly 2 hours depending on road conditions.
Once you arrive in Pokhara, check into your hotel and take the rest of the day at your own pace. You can walk along Phewa Lake, explore the Lakeside area, visit the Shanti Stupa, enjoy a good meal, or simply rest after the trek. The mountains are still visible across the valley on a clear afternoon.
Day 9 Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, your vehicle departs from Pokhara for the road journey back to Kathmandu. The drive follows the Prithvi Highway through river valleys, hill towns, and terraced farmland, covering roughly 200 km over 6 to 8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
The journey is long but passes through pleasant scenery along the Trishuli River corridor. Bringing snacks and something to read makes the time pass more easily, and there are usually stops along the way for meals and rest breaks.
After arriving in Kathmandu, your guide will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to rest, explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a quiet evening meal before your departure tomorrow.
Day 10 Departure from Nepal
Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek comes to an end today. Depending on your international flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport. We recommend reaching the airport around 3 hours before your international flight to allow enough time for check-in and security procedures.
You leave Nepal with memories of Gurung villages, bamboo forests, suspension bridges, mountain rivers, and the high peaks of the Annapurna Sanctuary. You also carry the experience of reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m and standing inside the mountain circle that makes this trek what it is.
Your time in the Annapurna region comes to a close as you head home. We hope the days on the trail were worth every step.
Want something more personal?
Our team can customize this trip perfectly for your pace, budget, and specific interests.
Cost Breakdown
What's included
All the services mentioned in the cost breakdown are included in 10 days Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek price.
Flight/Transportation
- All airport pick-up and drop-off transfers by private tourist vehicle.
- Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- Private jeep transfer from Pokhara to Hile & Jhinu Danda to Pokhara.
- Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
Accommodation
- 2 nights’ accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
- 1 night’s accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara.
- 6 nights’ accommodation in local guesthouses/lodges during the trek.
Food & Drink
- Full-board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek.
- Daily breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Fresh seasonal fruit provided during trekking days.
Guide & Porter
- 1 licensed, English-speaking trekking guide.
- 1 helpful porter for every 2 trekkers to carry trekking luggage.
Permits & Taxes
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee.
- All government taxes, local taxes, and official administrative fees.
Equipment & Support
- World Alpine Treks duffel bag, trekking map, company T-shirt, and sleeping bag (sleeping bag must be returned after the trip).
- World Alpine Treks first aid kit, complete with a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen levels during the trek.
- Assistance in an emergency rescue operation in case of altitude sickness (Funded by your travel insurance).
What's not included
- International airfare to/from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fee - You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days visas. You need 2 passport-size photos.
- Travel insurance to cover emergency evacuation and medical expenses.
- Hot showers during the trek.
- An extra night's hotel in Kathmandu in case of early arrival or late departure.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Personal refreshment expenses - soft drinks, hard drinks, mineral bottled water, cigarettes, chocolates, etc.
- Utility expenses like telephone, electricity for charging, internet (WI-FI), laundry services, etc.
- Tips for support crew members of your trekking team.
Upcoming Departures
Every date listed is 100% guaranteed once you book the trip.
No Scheduled Departures
We don't have group joining dates for this month yet. Check out the private trip options below!
Date Inquiry
Ask about availability or customization.
Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Packing List
Trekking Essentials13 Items
- Daypack (20–30L) with rain cover
- Duffel bag (provided by the trekking company)
- Sleeping bag (provided, rated to -20°C)
- Trekking poles (1 pair)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Dry bags and waterproof stuff sacks
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or water filter
- Passport-size photos (4)
- Required trekking permits
- Travel insurance documents
- Cash in Nepalese rupees (approximately NPR 20,000–25,000 recommended)
- Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit
Headwear4 Items
- Sun hat or cap
- Warm beanie or wool hat
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Upper Body6 Items
- Lightweight moisture-wicking base layers (2)
- Quick-dry T-shirts or long-sleeve shirts (3–4)
- Fleece or mid-layer jacket (1)
- Down jacket (1)
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (1)
- Sports bras (2–3, quick-dry) — women
Lower Body6 Items
- Trekking trousers (2)
- Trekking shorts (1)
- Thermal base-layer pants (1–2)
- Comfortable pants for teahouses (1)
- Waterproof and windproof shell trousers (1)
- Quick-dry underwear (5–7)
Hand Protection2 Items
- Liner gloves (1 pair)
- Insulated waterproof gloves (1 pair)
Footwear5 Items
- Waterproof, broken-in trekking boots (1 pair)
- Trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
- Camp shoes or sandals (1 pair)
- Microspikes (1 pair, seasonal - winter)
- Gaiters (1 pair, optional and seasonal)
Toiletries & Skincare8 Items
- Biodegradable soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Quick-dry towel
- Wet wipes
- Toilet paper (2 rolls)
- Hand sanitizer
- SPF 50+ sunscreen
- SPF lip balm
Health & Medical5 Items
- Personal first aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor)
- ORS packets
- Blister treatment
Useful Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to 42 common questions about Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek
General Questions
7 QuestionsQ.1 What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a high-altitude trekking route through Nepal's Annapurna region to the base camp of Annapurna I, the world's tenth-highest mountain. The trail passes through Gurung villages, bamboo and rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, alpine landscapes, and the dramatic mountain circle of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Key stops along the route include Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Himalaya, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda on the descent.
Q.2 How many days is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The standard itinerary is 10 days, including arrival in Kathmandu, the flight to Pokhara, trekking days, the return journey, and departure from Nepal.
Private itineraries can be adjusted with additional days in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or extra nights at specific villages along the trail.
Q.3 How long does it take to reach Annapurna Base Camp from the trailhead?
From Ghandruk, reaching Annapurna Base Camp takes approximately 3 to 4 days of trekking, passing through Chhomrong, the Modi Khola forest corridor, and the Himalaya before the final climb via Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
The gradual ascent profile is intentional — it gives your body time to adjust to increasing altitude without a forced rush.
Q.4 How high is Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp sits at approximately 4,130 m (13,550 ft). Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the overnight stop just below it, is around 3,700 m (12,139 ft).
Although lower than the Everest region, altitude effects are real above 3,000 m and should not be underestimated.
Q.5 Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for first-time trekkers?
Yes. The ABC Trek is accessible for first-time trekkers who have reasonable fitness and prepare properly. No previous mountaineering or high-altitude trekking experience is required.
The main challenges are the stone staircases between Chhomrong and Sinuwa, the altitude above Deurali, and cumulative fatigue over consecutive days. A steady pace and adequate hydration make the route manageable for most people who prepare beforehand.
Q.6 Can I do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek alone?
Solo travelers are welcome and can trek with a private guide and porter. Independent trekking without any support is not recommended given the altitude, route complexity, and the value a local guide adds at higher elevations.
Traveling with a guide gives you flexibility with pace and schedule. Group departures are also available if you prefer company on the trail.
Q.7 What should I expect from the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Expect challenging but rewarding mountain walking, views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre, traditional Gurung culture, dense forest sections, and the mountain circle at base camp.
You should also plan for simple teahouse accommodation, changing weather, limited facilities above Chhomrong, and the physical effects of altitude. A flexible attitude makes the day-to-day realities of the trail much easier to deal with.
Difficulty, Fitness & Altitude
9 QuestionsQ.1 How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The trek is rated moderate. It does not require technical skills, but long walking days, steep stone staircases between Chhomrong and Sinuwa, and altitude above 3,000 m make it genuinely demanding.
Preparation helps more than natural talent here. Regular walking, stair climbing, and cardiovascular exercise in the weeks before the trip make a noticeable difference on the trail.
Q.2 How many hours do you walk each day?
Most days involve 5 to 7 hours of walking. The longest day is the descent from ABC to Bamboo, which runs 7 to 8 hours on mostly downhill trail.
Regular breaks are built into each day. Your guide will adjust the pace based on the group's condition and the elevation gain for that section.
Q.3 What is the hardest day of the trek?
Day 4 (Chhomrong to Himalaya) and Day 5 (Himalaya to ABC) are typically the most demanding — one because of length and terrain, the other because of altitude. The descent from ABC to Bamboo on Day 6 is also tough because it is long and hard on the knees.
Trekking poles help considerably on the stone step sections. Setting a consistent pace rather than pushing hard is the better approach at higher elevations.
Q.4 How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable walking 5 to 7 hours on consecutive days. You do not need to be an athlete, but arriving with some regular exercise in the preceding weeks makes the harder sections noticeably more manageable.
Good preparation options include longer walks, stair climbing, cycling, and hikes on uneven ground before you travel.
Q.5 Can children trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
Children can complete the trek when physically ready and when the itinerary is appropriate for their age and fitness. Families should weigh the altitude (4,130 m), long walking days, cold nights, and limited medical facilities carefully before planning the journey.
A private itinerary can be adjusted to a slower pace or a modified turnaround point. We recommend discussing this with us before booking.
Q.6 Can older travelers do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Age is less relevant than fitness and overall health. Many older travelers complete the trek without difficulty, while others with health conditions need careful preparation regardless of age.
Discuss any medical concerns with your doctor before planning a high-altitude trek. A private itinerary offers more control over pace and daily distance.
Q.7 Should I take altitude sickness medication?
This depends on your personal health history and your doctor's advice. Medication should not be taken automatically without a proper medical consultation.
Regardless of medication, the most important factors are a gradual ascent, staying hydrated, eating enough, getting adequate rest, and reporting any worsening symptoms to your guide immediately.
Q.8 What happens if I cannot complete the trek?
If you cannot continue safely, your guide will assess the situation and help arrange the safest option — resting, descending, or seeking medical assistance depending on where you are and what the condition requires.
Your safety takes priority over reaching base camp. Additional costs for transportation, accommodation, or emergency assistance will depend on the circumstances and your travel insurance.
Q.9 Is there an acclimatization day on the ABC Trek?
The itinerary does not include a separate acclimatization rest day. The gradual ascent from Ghandruk through Chhomrong, Bamboo, Himalaya, and Deurali over several days serves this purpose naturally.
If you prefer a slower pace or have had altitude issues before, extra nights at Chhomrong or Himalaya can be added to a private itinerary.
Pokhara Flight & Transportation
4 QuestionsQ.1 How do I get to Pokhara for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The quickest option is a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes around 25 to 30 minutes. Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines operate multiple departures daily.
You can also travel by road along the Prithvi Highway, though the drive takes 6 to 8 hours depending on traffic. Our team arranges the flight and all ground transport as part of the package.
Q.2 How long is the drive from Pokhara to the start of the trek?
The drive from Pokhara to Kimche takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by private vehicle. From Kimche, a 1 to 2 hour uphill walk on a stone-paved trail brings you to Ghandruk at 1,940 m.
Total travel time from Pokhara Airport to Ghandruk is roughly 4 to 5 hours, including the drive and the walk.
Q.3 What happens if my Pokhara flight is delayed or cancelled?
Flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara can be disrupted by poor weather or operational issues. If delayed, our team monitors the situation and arranges the next available option. If cancelled, we can look at rescheduling or organizing a road transfer to Pokhara, which adds around 6 to 8 hours to the day.
We recommend keeping one flexible day in your Nepal schedule whenever possible to avoid pressure on the start of the trek.
Q.4 Can I take a helicopter during the trek?
Yes. Helicopter transport can be arranged between Pokhara, Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and other points in the Annapurna region, subject to weather and availability.
This is mainly relevant for emergency evacuations or situations where someone needs to exit the trail quickly. Our team will confirm options and costs before anything is arranged.
Accommodation & Facilities
4 QuestionsQ.1 Where will I stay during the trek?
The package includes 2 nights in a hotel in Kathmandu, 1 night in a hotel in Pokhara, and 6 nights in teahouses during the trek.
Teahouses are simple but practical — twin rooms, shared dining halls, and basic bathroom facilities. Standards drop as you gain altitude, particularly above Chhomrong.
Q.2 Will I have a private room?
Twin-sharing is the standard arrangement. Private rooms are available at some teahouses in lower villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong, but become more limited at higher elevations and during peak season.
Let us know before booking if having a private room matters to you, and we will check what is available.
Q.3 What bathroom and shower facilities are available?
Bathrooms are available throughout the route, though the standard varies. Lower villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong sometimes have attached bathrooms. Above Chhomrong, shared outdoor bathrooms are more common.
Hot showers are available at most lower teahouses for an extra charge — roughly NPR 200 to NPR 400 depending on location. Above Deurali, showers are rarely available.
Q.4 Can I use Wi-Fi and charge my phone during the trek?
Wi-Fi and charging points are available at most teahouses below Deurali, usually for a small fee. Above Deurali, connectivity is unreliable and often absent at MBC and ABC.
Bring a power bank and charge devices whenever electricity is available. Download offline maps before leaving Pokhara.
Food & Drinking Water
3 QuestionsQ.1 What food is available on the trek?
Teahouses serve a mix of Nepali and simple international trekking food — dal bhat, noodles, pasta, fried rice, soup, momo, eggs, bread, potatoes, and porridge. Dal bhat is the most filling and reliable option throughout the route.
Options narrow above Deurali because all supplies are carried in. At ABC, meals are basic but hot. For more detail, see our Foods on ABC Trek guide.
Q.2 Is vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free food available?
Vegetarian food is widely available at all stops. Vegan options are possible at most teahouses —
rice, dal, vegetable dishes, potatoes, and certain soups work well — though choices become more limited at higher elevations.
Gluten-free eating is manageable with rice, dal, eggs, and potatoes as your core options, but requires careful communication at each stop. Let us know your dietary requirements before the trek so we can pass this on to your guide and the teahouses.
Q.3 Is drinking water available on the trek?
Water is available at teahouses and along the route, but should be treated before drinking. You can buy bottled water or use purification tablets or a filter, which is both cheaper and less wasteful, especially above Deurali where prices rise.
Carrying a reusable bottle and a purification method is the most practical approach throughout the trek.
Luggage, Equipment & Packing
5 QuestionsQ.1 How much can the porter carry, and is a duffel bag provided?
Porter support is included at a ratio of one porter per two trekkers. The maximum main luggage allowance is 12 kg per person. A duffel bag is provided by us and returned after the trek.
Keep your daypack light — water, snacks, layers, documents, electronics, and medication. Everything else goes in the porter's duffel.
Q.2 Can I leave extra luggage in Kathmandu or Pokhara?
Yes. Most hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara will store luggage securely while you are on the trail. This lets you travel to the Annapurna region with only what you need for the trek.
Collect your stored bags when you return to the city after the trek.
Q.3 Is a sleeping bag provided?
Yes. A sleeping bag is included in the package and issued for the trekking portion of the journey. It must be returned after the trek.
A liner adds warmth if you prefer it, and warm sleeping clothes are useful at higher elevations above Deurali.
Q.4 What footwear should I use?
Waterproof, broken-in trekking boots with good grip and ankle support are the right choice for the ABC Trek. The stone staircases, river crossings, and alpine terrain above Deurali all benefit from boots that have been properly tested before the trip.
Do not buy new boots just before traveling. Test them on local hikes beforehand to avoid blisters on the trail.
Q.5 Can I buy or rent trekking equipment in Kathmandu or Pokhara?
Yes. Both cities have many trekking shops with gear for rent or purchase — sleeping bags, down jackets, poles, backpacks, and accessories. Pokhara in particular is well stocked for Annapurna trekkers.
Boots should ideally be bought and tested before you arrive rather than rented in Nepal.
Money, Payments & Trek Cost
3 QuestionsQ.1 How much does the Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost?
The cost varies by itinerary, group size, accommodation standard, and season. Most packages include domestic flights, accommodation, trekking meals, permits, guide and porter services, and equipment.
Personal costs — insurance, visa, drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, laundry, showers, and tips — are not included. Contact us for the current package price.
Q.2 How much cash should I carry for personal expenses?
We recommend around USD 150 to 200 per person for personal expenses during the trek. This covers drinks, extra snacks, bottled water, Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, and tips for the trekking staff.
A daily budget of roughly USD 15 to 20 for personal items is a reasonable estimate based on average spending.
Q.3 Should I carry Nepalese rupees, and can I use a card or ATM?
Yes — Nepalese rupees in cash are essential. From Ghandruk onward, teahouses and shops operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs exist in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with one in Ghandruk, but they are unreliable in the villages above.
Withdraw sufficient rupees in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek. Do not count on finding a working ATM along the trekking route.
Permits, Insurance & Safety
3 QuestionsQ.1 What permits are required for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The only permit currently required for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs NPR 3,000 per foreign national. The TIMS card is not currently required on this route.
Permits are checked at checkpoints including Birethanti and Chhomrong. We arrange the ACAP as part of your trek package.
Q.2 Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is essential for the ABC Trek. Your policy should include emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, hospitalization, and trip cancellation.
Confirm in the actual policy wording that trekking at 4,130 m and helicopter evacuation from the Annapurna region are covered. Do not rely on a summary page alone.
Q.3 What happens if I need medical assistance or evacuation during the trek?
If you become unwell, your guide will assess the situation and recommend the appropriate response — rest, descent, a local health post, or emergency evacuation depending on the severity. In serious cases, helicopter evacuation can be coordinated when weather and conditions permit.
Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell. Early communication is the most important factor in getting the right response quickly. Evacuation costs depend on your insurance policy and circumstances.
Booking & Customization
4 QuestionsQ.1 Can I customize the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Yes. Private itineraries can be adjusted for pace, extra nights at specific villages, different accommodation, or combined with other Nepal destinations.
Discuss your preferences before booking so all arrangements can be planned in advance.
Q.2 Can I add other destinations to my trip?
Yes. The ABC Trek combines well with other Nepal experiences. Popular options include Kathmandu heritage tours, Pokhara activities (paragliding, boating), Chitwan National Park, the Poon Hill trek, Lumbini, and mountain flights.
Our team can put together a combined Nepal itinerary based on your available time.
Q.3 Can I book a private trek and choose my own dates?
Yes. Private ABC treks are available for individuals, couples, families, and groups, on dates that suit your schedule. Subject to domestic flight availability and operational conditions, we can generally accommodate most requested dates.
Fixed group departures are also available during the main spring and autumn seasons if you prefer to join other trekkers.
Q.4 What happens if the itinerary needs to change on the trail?
Weather, health issues, or flight disruptions can sometimes require adjustments. Our team will find the safest practical solution available based on the situation.
Any additional costs for transport, accommodation, or other arrangements will be discussed with you before anything is confirmed.
Real Experiences
View All ReviewsBest trip ever!
Grace L
Nov 18, 2024Best trekking experience ever!
Claire H
Nov 09, 2024Lifetime journey to annapurna himalaya
Hsinchi W
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