Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the classic trekking trails to reach the base of the Mt Annapurna south side. The trek starts from Pokhara and goes via Ghorepani or Ghandruk, and reaches the Annapurna base camp at an altitude of 4130 meters. The Annapurna base camp is one of the best places to see the sunrise and sunset of the Annapurna himalayan range. Peaks like Annapurna I 8,091 m (26,545 ft), Annapurna South 7,219 m (23,684 ft), Machapuchare 6,993 m (22,943 ft), Annapurna II 7,937 m (26,040 ft), Annapurna III 7,555 m (24,787 ft), Gangapurna 7,455 m (24,459 ft), and many other peaks can be seen very nicely.
The Annapurna base camp trek can be done in 5, 7 and 8 days, which varies depending on the route you choose, but most of the trekkers do it in just 5 days, which is the shortest hike to reach the base camp of the Mt Annapurna. The 5-day trek is the best and shortest hike to reach the south base camp of Annapurna, but quite demanding physically. The longer trek via Ghorepani is suitable for trekkers of all types because it allows trekkers to adjust with landscapes and so on. Depending on your time frame, you can choose various routes to do the Annapurna Base Camp. The trek gives the best chance to see the High himalayan peaks, massive glaciers that start from the Annapurna South and Annapurna mountains. The trail to Annapurna combines the perfect natural scenery, forest landscapes, and the local cultures, as well as the local Gurung people who live along the trails.
The Annapurna base camp trek highlights
Spectacular Mountain Views
The Annapurna Base Camp trek gives a chance to see Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. The base camp itself is an excellent spot to witness majestic mountain views, as well as sunrises and sunsets.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp
On the way to ABC, trekkers cross the trail past Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), situated at an elevation of 3,700 meters. The Machhapurche base camp allows the best glimpse of the spiritually enchanting Machhapuchhre mountain and its surrounding areas. The Machhapurche Mountain is one of the best attractions of the trek.
Diverse Landscapes
The winding trail of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek passes through diverse landscapes. The trek starts with the subtropical region of trees, including rhododendrons, bamboo, and oaks, and then moves to the alpine region, characterized by cliffs and moraines that often terminate in glaciers.
Traditional Gurung Villages and cultures
The majority of the locals are Gurungs and Magar ethnic communities. Trekking through trails, you will pass the villages like Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and Sinuwa and many other small villages where Trekkers can experience the warm hospitality of the local people and see their lifestyles and cultures.
Hot Springs at Jhinu
At the end of your ABC Trek, you can treat yourself to the natural hot springs. The natural hot spring baths gives a therapeutic benefits to the body.
Forests of Bamboo and Rhododendron
The trekking trails of the ABC Trek lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The lower-region paths pass through lush bamboo forests and vibrant rhododendron groves, especially during spring when the flowers bloom.
Annapurna base camp trek best time
The best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek depends on the season, as each period offers a different trekking experience.
Spring (March to May) Spring season isconsidered one of the best seasons for the Annapurna base camp trek. During this time, the weather and temperatures are very suitable for trekking. Trekkers can see the stunning views of the peaks, and the chance of snowfall and rainfall is very low during the spring season.
Autumn (September to November) is the most ideal time for the Annapurna base camp trek. Autumn season is also known as a post-monsoon time when the air becomes clean and crisp, providing outstanding visibility of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The weather remains dry and pleasant, trails are in good condition, and teahouses are fully operational. This season offers the best combination of scenery, weather, and trekking comfort. In the lower area, people celebrate the biggest festivals of Nepal during this time.
The summer or Monsoon season (June to August) brings frequent rainfall to the Langtang region. The trails can be muddy and slippery, and clouds often block mountain views. However, the valley turns lush and green, and the number of trekkers is low, offering a quieter experience. This season is suitable for those who prefer solitude and do not mind occasional rain.
Winter (December to February) is cold, especially at higher altitudes, with the possibility of snowfall. While daytime skies can be clear and views stunning, temperatures can drop significantly, and some high passes or side hikes may be affected by snow. Winter trekking is best suited for well-prepared trekkers seeking peaceful trails and dramatic winter landscapes.
How difficult is the Annapurna base camp trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered a moderate trek and is suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Here are the things that determine the Annapurna Base Camp trek difficulty.
- Difficulty Level: The trek is graded as moderate, which means it does not require technical climbing skills on the mountains, but trekkers are required to trek up and descend staircases multiple times during a day, and this is for most of the trekking days.
- Duration and Daily Walking:
The trek is 5–8 days, with daily walking hours of 5 to 7 hours on average, and on the day from Lower Sinuwa to Deurali and from ABC to Bamboo, the camp is pretty long; trekkers have to trek for 9-10 hours.. The pace is manageable with regular breaks. - Trail Conditions:
The trails to Annapurna base camp are full of staircases, and it is very accents and descents, and quite good endurance is required for the trek. The trails pass through dense forests, villages, and open valleys. Some sections involve steep ascents and rocky paths.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Mulde Peak Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu and trekking preparation
We will pick you up from the airport and then transfer you to the Hotel. Where we prepare for the trek by hiring and buying the gear.
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara, 7-8 hours
The tourist bus to Pokhara takes about 7-8 hours to reach and offers the magnificent views of the countryside, and trekkers can see the diverse range of landscapes. You will see the Trisuli and Marshyandri River Rafting.
Day 03: Pokhara to Ghandruk, then trek to Tadapani 2675 M, 6-7 Hours
The trek starts with a Jeep drive to Ghandruk, which isa 2-3 hour drive, and from here you will start the hike. The trail goes through the forest to reach the Bhisaikhark, and then to Tadapani.
Day 04: Trek to Dobato 3400 M, 6-7 Hours
The trail starts with the dense forest with the accent climbing to Meshar. The trail winds through the forest and reaches Iharu, then to Dobato, and stays overnight there.
Day 05: Trek down to chuile 2300 M, 7-8 Hours
Very early morning, you will trek to Mulde viewpoint, then see the best sunrise over the Himalayas, such as Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Annapurna and many mores then descend down to Chuile and stay overnight here.
Day 06: Chuile to Lower Sinuwa 2170 M, 7-8 Hours
Today’s trek takes you from Chuile to Upper Sinuwa. You will traverse through lush forests and scenic trails, ascending to an elevation of 2,360 meters. The trek will last approximately 5-6 hours, with opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Annapurna region.
Day 07: Lower Sinuwa to Deurali 3200 M, 8-9 Hours
Your trek today leads you from Sinuwa to Deurali, situated at 3,200 meters. This journey involves a steady climb through diverse landscapes, including dense forests and alpine meadows. The trek will take about 5-6 hours and will set you up for the final ascent to Annapurna Base Camp.
Day 08: Trek to Annapurna base camp 4130 M, 5-6 Hours
Today, you will trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. This 5-6 hour trek takes you through breathtaking scenery and provides panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Upon reaching Base Camp, you can enjoy the stunning surroundings and the majestic peaks that encircle you.
Day 09: Trek down to Bamboo 2600 M, 8-9 Hours
After spending time at Annapurna Base Camp, you will begin your descent. Trek back to Bamboo at 2,350 meters. The return journey will take about 8-9 hours, retracing some of your previous steps and allowing you to appreciate the landscape from a different perspective.
Day 10: Bamboo to Jhinu 1400 M, 5-6 Hours then drive back to pokhara
Today, you will trek from Sinuwa to Jhinu Danda, a village known for its natural hot springs. After enjoying the hot springs and a well-deserved rest, you will drive back to Pokhara. From Pokhara, catch a flight back to Kathmandu. The entire journey, including the trek, drive, and flight, will take approximately 7-8 hours.
Day 11: Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
Day 12: Your departure day
Annapurna base camp Trek 5 days only
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu and trekking preparation
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara, 7-8 hours
Day 03: Pokhara to Samrung then trek to Lower Sinuwa 2170 M, 7-8 Hours
Day 04: Lower Sinuwa to Deurali 3200 M, 8-9 Hours
Day 05: Trek to Annapurna base camp 4130 M, 5-6 Hours
Day 06: Trek down to Bamboo 2600 M, 8-9 Hours
Day 07: Bamboo to Jhinu 1400 M, 5-6 Hours
Day 08: Jhinu to Pokhara
Day 09: Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
Day 10: Your departure day
Conclusion:
The Annapurna base camp trek is moderate grade trek, and even beigineers level hikers can do the trek. You should have some days to go pokhara and back, or you can use the flights too. If you are looking similar trek experience like the Annapurna base camp trek, then you should also consider the Langtang Valley Trek, it is much easier and faster than going to Annapurna Base Camp. Langtang Valley is a bit easier than the Annapurna Base Camp and offers the most scenic view of the Langtang Himalayan Ranges.
If you want to have information regarding the Trek, please contact the Nepal Trek Hub Pvt Ltd. You can contact us at [email protected] or by phone or WhatsApp at +977-9849697919 to discuss your preferred dates, group size, and specific needs. They will provide a detailed itinerary covering these treks’ duration, highlights, cost, and inclusions such as a guide, porter, meals, accommodation, and transportation.