Night 1-2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsMandala Boutique Hotel, Kathmandu
Located in a quiet corner of the Thamel area of Kathmandu, this hotel has easy access to shopping and other tourist attractions. It is clean and air-conditioned for your comfort.
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views in Nepal's Himalayas on this 16-day guided trek
Discover for yourself why the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is so popular with trekking enthusiasts from around the world. The diversity of this region means you can hike through jungles, temperature rhododendron forests, and reach the base camp of Annapurna I, a peak that’s over 8,000 m tall.
The Annapurna Conservation Area protects and preserves some rare and unique wildlife, and you are likely to see many of these amazing creatures along your trek. You’ll witness the grandeur of the Annapurna mountain range from a variety of perspectives. Climb to the top of Poon Hill to watch the stunning and colorful sunrise. Stand at Annapurna Base Camp, where the majestic mountains surround you with 360-degree panoramic views. You’ll even experience this magnificent range from above, on a flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu.
The native Gurung people who call this incredible place home welcome you to their mountain paradise. You will experience true hospitality as you stay in their villages and interact with the local people. This tour truly gives you all the best highlights of this remarkable region. You’ll love every minute of this unforgettable Annapurna Base Camp trekking tour!
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal! Fly into the Tribhuwan International Airport where an airport representative from your tour will meet you. Your guide will brief you with more details about your tour when you arrive at your hotel. Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner to commemorate your first evening.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley, experiencing the wonders of this vibrant city. Visit a well-known Buddhist temple called Stupa Swayambunath, which is also called the Monkey Temple. From this point, high on a hill, take in the inspiring view of the mountains and the Kathmandu Valley that surrounds you. Stupa Swayambunath is the oldest and most mysterious shrine in Kathmandu, attracting Buddhist visitors and tourists from all over the world with its distinctive white dome and sparkling gold spire. Next, drive to the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple on the Indian subcontinent, and the crematorium beside it. Finally, your tour also takes you to Patan Durbar Square where you can see many notable temples and palaces from centuries past, each an intriguing example of traditional Nepalese architecture.
Leave Kathmandu today after breakfast and drive to Pokhara, a fascinating and lovely town in western Nepal. Breathe the fresh, crisp mountain air and take in the overwhelming beauty of the natural landscape as you are surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world. Spend the afternoon boating on Lake Phewa, where the spectacular view of the Annapurna range will be mirrored in the sparkling water. The rugged white peaks of the Annapurna mountain range are in a class all their own, among the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world. Watch the sunset from the lake, then enjoy dinner at a well-known lakeside restaurant.
Begin your trek today after a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. The trail from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga is a pleasant dirt road that follows a lovely stream. You will see views of the Himalayas as you begin the trek, but soon the peaks will hide, and you will be surrounded by the lush, green mountain environment as well as local villages as you pass through. When you come to Tikhedhunga, you will spend the night in a guesthouse.
The trail today is more challenging as you will climb 3,300 stone steps along the way. After crossing a suspension bridge over a stream, a set of steep stone steps will bring you to the Magar settlement of Ulleri. A more gradual climb from here leads you through a series of meadows, cultivated fields of crops, and a forest of rhododendron trees. Bird watchers will delight in the variety of birds in this area, including kingfishers, redstarts, forktails, and dippers. Continue your trek on to Nangethanti, then Ghorepani. Ghorepani is known for its incredible panoramic mountain views. Among the peaks, you’ll see are Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri I, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Tarke Kang, and Hiuchuli. Rest well in Ghorepani after a day full of climbing.
Get an early start today to make the 45-minute uphill climb to the top of Poon Hill. Your efforts will be well rewarded with an amazing sunrise view of the Annapurna mountain range. Watch as the peaks before you seem to change color in the changing light as the sun rises, first a soft pink then shining like gold as the new day dawns. On a clear day, you can see two peaks that are more than 8,000 m tall. There are only 14 peaks in the world that are over 8,000 m and 8 of these are in Nepal. Return to the Ghorepani lodge for breakfast, then trek from there to Tadapani.
Follow the trail through a forest where you will be surrounded by birdsong. About 45 minutes into your walk, you’ll reach a steeper downhill stretch that passes through a terraced field. This brings you to Kimrung Khola, where you’ll cross a suspension bridge, then continue walking to Gurjung. Here the trail begins to climb again but continue and you’ll soon reach Chhomrong (2,170 m/7,119’).
Leaving Chhomrong, you’ll descend 310 m (1,017 ft) on a long stretch of stone steps to reach the Chhomrong Stream. After you’ve crossed the stream, you’ll climb again to Sinuwa (2,340 m/7,677’). From here, enjoy an easier walk through a forest of rhododendrons, ferns, and orchids. More steep steps will then take you down to your lunch stop at Bamboo. After lunch, another hour of walking in a refreshingly cool forest will bring you to Dovan (2,630 m/8,629’), where you will spend the night.
Walk peacefully through the jungle today from Dovan to Himalaya. These mountains are considered holy and sacred, and Annapurna is the Hindu goddess of food and harvest, and in Nepali, the word ‘Annapurna’ means plenty of food. Notice how the vegetation around you changes as you walk higher. The tropical jungle gives way to more temperate forests of beech, oak, and rhododendron trees. The Machhapuchhare Base Camp trail is full of diverse plant and animal life, so watch for opportunities to observe wildlife. Highlights of today’s trail include caves, waterfalls, and a tea garden. Spend the night in a lodge at Machhapuchhare Base Camp.
At last, today is the day you will trek to Annapurna Base Camp. This camp is within the protected area of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) which was created by the government of Nepal to preserve the native plant and wildlife in this area. You may encounter pika, blue sheep, Himalayan Thar, and snow leopards that call this area home. You may also see a variety of pheasants, such as koklass, Himalayan pheasant, and blood pheasants. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp does not require a steep climb, but rather is surprisingly gentle and peaceful as you trek up through the meadows, always surrounded by majestic Himalayan views.
From the Annapurna Base Camp, the 360-degree panorama is unmatched in its breathtaking grandeur. Take note especially of Machhapuchhare, Gangapurna, and of course Annapurna specifically. It is hard to get enough of this spectacular place, but all too soon you will follow the same trail back to the Himalaya Hotel to spend the night.
Enjoy your morning tea or coffee in the company of majestic mountains this morning. Begin your return trip by descending to Dovan, or possibly Bamboo. The trail takes you once again through the lovely rhododendron forests, which are also full of ferns and orchids. Pass the Machhapuchhare Base Camp, Deurali, and Himalaya along your journey to Dovan. Stop along the trail for lunch, then have dinner and rest for the night once you reach Dovan.
Return to Chhomrong, where you will have the opportunity to explore the Gurung village and learn more about their daily life and culture. This village is the most popular stop in the region for Annapurna hikers, in large part thanks to its incredible views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhare peaks.
Leave Chhomrong and hike down to the suspension bridge at Kimrung Khola. Make your way gradually to Landruk where you can stop to rest and eat lunch. After lunch, trek to the Gurung settlement of Tolka. Here you have another opportunity to experience the Gurung traditions and culture, including interacting with the local people.
Today is the last day of your trek! After breakfast, the trail begins with an easy stretch from Tolka to Bhaise Kharka. It then climbs again to reach Deurali. Continue through more beautiful landscapes to your lunch stop at Pothana. Descend from Pothana to Phedi, where a car will be waiting. Congratulations on completing this incredible trek! Enjoy your private transfer back to the beautiful town of Pokhara to spend the night.
Return to Kathmandu by air, enjoying the incredible mountains from above. Once you arrive, you will have free time to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or see a few more points of interest. You can also choose to rest and relax in one of Kathmandu’s many cafes or rooftop restaurants. The evening holds opportunities to celebrate your accomplishments in completing this amazing journey. Well done!
Sadly, your tour has reached its end and today is your departure day. You are free to explore as you wish until it is time to return to the airport. You may enjoy souvenir shopping or discovering some of the many cultural sites that the city has to offer. Your guide can help you find exactly what you’re looking for, then an airport representative will escort you to the airport and help with any details. Have a pleasant journey!
This guided trekking tour in Nepal is run either as a private tour for your group only, however, sometimes there are options to join other groups (please enquire for more information). The pricing depends on the number of people on your group.
Pricing below is per person:
This tour is based in trekking lodges, also called tea houses, along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These accommodations are simple, since there is no road access to reach them, but they are also friendly and full of atmosphere.
Most lodges have dining areas that are heated, but the bedrooms are typically unheated. Wooden beds with foam mattresses are provided, but you will need a warm sleeping bag of your own. Washing and toilet facilities are shared, and some have solar showers available for an additional charge.
Before and after your trek, stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu. Rooms are double occupancy, and single travellers will pay a supplement.
In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement of $250USD to have a private room in a hotel. Contact us and we can try and match single travellers up, where possible. Private rooms are not available in the trekking lodges.
Located in a quiet corner of the Thamel area of Kathmandu, this hotel has easy access to shopping and other tourist attractions. It is clean and air-conditioned for your comfort.
The White Pearl has a peaceful, soothing atmosphere in the clean, spacious rooms and throughout the hotel. Enjoy a wonderful view from your room, especially on the higher floors.
These lodges are simple but full of atmosphere. The rooms in these lodges are not heated, but some have heated dining areas. Toilets and washing facilities are shared.
The White Pearl has a peaceful, soothing atmosphere in the clean, spacious rooms and throughout the hotel. Enjoy a wonderful view from your room, especially on the higher floors.
Located in a quiet corner of the Thamel area of Kathmandu, this hotel has easy access to shopping and other tourist attractions. It is clean and air-conditioned for your comfort.
15 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 11 dinners are included on this tour.
Accommodations for all 15 nights are included. Along the trek, stay in simple trekking lodges (tea houses). Before and after the trek, stay in 3.5-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Domestic flights and land transportation described in the itinerary is included, as well as a guide on the flight and all airport taxes. Airport transfers between the Kathmandu Airport and your hotel are also included.
How hard is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a moderate difficulty trek. We rate the ABC Tour as a 3 / 5. Sections of the trail are strenuous, but at higher elevations, even easier sections of trail become more challenging. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about trekking at high altitudes.
Should I be concerned about altitude on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
You should always check with your doctor before taking a trekking tour at elevation. On the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the sleeping elevation goes above 3,500m (11,500’) on night 9 and night 10. The maximum elevation you sleep at is 4,130m (13,550’), which is high altitude, and will impact your stamina, sleeping and could pose health risks. This trek follows a standard route to the Annapurna Base Camp.
Do I need a Visa?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included?
15 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 11 dinners are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Kathmandu to start this tour?
The Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the only international airport in Nepal. If arriving in Nepal by air, you must fly to this airport. Transportation is provided between the airport and your hotel in Kathmandu.
Are the tours in English?
Yes, the tour guide is English speaking.
Where does the tour end?
The tour ends where it begins, in Kathmandu. Tour staff will escort you to the Kathmandu Airport.
What should I pack?
You will be given a complete packing list for your trek upon booking. Plan to layer your clothing to be comfortable at different temperatures. You should be able to add a waterproof layer (jacket and trousers) to stay dry, as well as protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunglasses. A headlamp with extra batteries is also recommended. You will carry your own daypack (30 L recommended) during the day and your baggage on the trek is limited to 12 kg. You should also have a sleeping bag (rated for -10°C), dry bags, a padlock (to lock your trek bag) and a basic first aid kid. Please respect the traditional Nepalese culture by dressing conservatively (avoid bare shoulders and keep legs covered)
Can I charge my phone / camera / other device?
You may need an outlet adapter for any electrical items. You can find more information about by pressing HERE. Electricity will not always be available along the trek. Some lodges will have solar-powered charging facilities for an additional hourly fee.
How much spending money will I need?
Plan to have cash exchanged into Nepali rupees. It is possible to withdraw rupees from ATMs in Kathmandu but not outside the city. An estimated $400-600 USD per person should be sufficient for meals in Kathmandu, drinks, snacks and other personal expenses such as showers and charging batteries in the trekking lodges. This should also cover tips for your guide, porters, and other trek staff.
How much should I tip my guide and porter?
Guides and porters appreciate your tips, and this forms a large portion of their compensation. If you receive good service, you should plan on tipping your guides approximately $3-$5 / per day per person in your group. You should tip your porter $2 - $4 per person per day. A larger group would tip on the lower end of the scale, while a smaller group of 2-5 would tip on the higher end.
Do I need vaccines?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for this country?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Nepal for this tour?
This tour is available year-round. The best time to travel to Nepal for this trek is during the pre-monsoon season from March through early May, or post-monsoon in October and November. Monsoon season typically lasts from late May through September.
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The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a moderate difficulty trek. We rate the ABC Tour as a 3 / 5. Sections of the trail are strenuous, but at higher elevations, even easier sections of trail become more challenging. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about trekking at high altitudes.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
Kathmandu, Nepal
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