Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 12 Days

On this day, you will land at Kathmandu International Airport (TIA), where you will proceed to Immigration to finish the visa application. Following that, you will meet our Eco Nepal Trekkers representative.

After that, we will welcome you by putting on the Khata, a ceremonial scarf that is worn in Nepal to welcome visitors and signify respect and goodwill. You will then take a journey in the private car we have reserved for you in the airport parking area.

After that, riding comfortably on the Nepal highway you’ll start to see the lively streets of Kathmandu. You will also get a view of Pashupatinath Nath Temple which is listed as a UNESCO heritage site of Nepal during the drive.

After approximately 20 minutes of ride, you’ll arrive in the heart of the Thamel area. Then you will check into the comfy Hotel that we have pre-booked for you.

Later in the evening you can step from your hotel and wander the streets of Thamel to explore and you can do last-minute shopping for the Annapurna base camp trek like buying and renting gear and equipment.

Today you will be heading to Pokhara early in the morning. You will have two options either taking a flight to Pokhara or taking a private vehicle.

Option 1: Take a private vehicle( Tourist Bus/ Jeep)
Our private vehicle will be there to pick you up. Since we will depart early in the morning make sure to prepare for the ride by having all your belongings and luggage packed and ready.

Departure Time: Start your day early, around 6:30 AM, to avoid traffic in Kathmandu and maximize time in Pokhara.
Road distance: Around 200km
Road condition: Paved and off-road, expansion work
Duration: 6-7 hours by road
Scenic Highlights: Ride through Prithivi Highway along the bank of Trishuli River, which has scenic views of lush hills, terrace fields, charming villages, etc.

Option 2: By Domestic Flight

Departure Time: While booking the Kathmandu to Pokhara flight make sure to book early in the morning so that you can have enough time to explore after you reach Pokhara. Early in the morning normally the weather remains perfect to enjoy the best aerial view from the domestic plane from your window seat
Flight Duration: 30 minutes
Flight Views: On a clear day you can get the panoramic view of panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges as well as glimpses of verdant valleys.

Note: If you choose the domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Eco Nepal Trekkers will arrange the transportation for you to reach the airport. You need to pay for the domestic flight as it will not be included in the package. If you need any help for booking then we are here to help you.

Highlights of Pokhara

If you have time after arriving, consider visiting these must-see attractions:

Phewa Lake:
Take a private or group boat to enjoy the calm water of Phewa Lake.
Visit the Tal Barahi Temple also known as ‘Lake Temple’ which is located in between the lake.

World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa):
Take a short drive to the World Peace Pagoda temple which is situated at the top of the hill. From here you can see the panoramic view of Pokhara City, Phewa Lake, and on clear days stunning view of the Annapurna Range.

Devi’s Falls and Gupteshwor Cave:
Explore the Unique Beauty of the famous Devi’s Fall (Nepali: पाताले छाँगो) that disappears into an underground cavern.

Opposite the Davis Fall, you can visit Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave which holds religious importance

After enjoying a fantastic time in the popular tourist destination of Pokhara, it’s time to go to Ghandruk, the beginning site for the 12-day Annapurna Base Camp trek. You will go to Ghandruk in a private jeep from Pokhara. It takes roughly 1 hour and 35 minutes to drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk, which is about 25.4 kilometers away.

The road to Ghandruk is mostly paved but in some sections is gravel. During the ride, you pass through terraced farmlands, dense forests, and rural villages. Once you arrive in Ghandruk which is situated at the altitude of 2,012 m you can see the traditional Gurung settlement. Houses here are slate-roofed and trekking routes are paved by stones. Ghandruk serves as a gateway to the Annapurna region and from here you can witness breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks. Also, you can visit the Gurung Museum for a glimpse of local culture and traditions.

We will have a delicious lunch in Ghandruk before starting to trek to Chomrong village. Today we will start our first trekking from the beautiful Ghandruk village. Our first-day trek will be short and easy as it takes only 3 hours to reach Chomrong village. Passing through dense rhododendron forests( During spring you can see colorful rhododendron forests) and suspension bridge you will arrive at Chomrong. Chomrong is situated at an altitude of around 2,170 meters (7,120 ft). You will arrive in the Chomrong village By late afternoon and then check in the tea house.

After breakfast at the tea house today, you will depart from Chomrong village. From Chomrong, the trail starts with a steep fall down stone steps that lead to the riverbed. You will begin your ascent uphill towards Sinuwa after crossing a suspension bridge across the Chomrong Khola, the river that runs through the valley. It’s an easy climb that leads to a ridge with breathtaking views.

After walking for around 1.5–2 hours, you will reach Upper Sinuwa (2,360 m). There are very few settlements and tea houses in this area. You can take a break, rehydrate, and refuel with some snacks while enjoying the breathtaking views of surrounding nature.

You will now travel through thick woods from here. Bamboo and rhododendron forests fill this lush forest, which can make you feel more natural while providing shade while trekking.

Then the track gradually lowers until changing into a broad, twisting route through the forest. While passing this area don’t forget to spot wildlife, including colorful birds, mountain goats, and langur monkeys.

After that, you will reach Bamboo, which is 2,310 meters (7,578 feet) above sea level. Following that, you will check into a tea house, which is a basic but cozy place to stay the night. You can refuel later in the evening with a steaming bowl of noodle soup or some authentic Nepali dal bhat.

On day 5 of the Annapurna base camp trek, you will pack up and start the journey to Deurali after enjoying a hearty breakfast at your teahouse in Bamboo. We will be gradually climbing higher into the Annapurna sanctuary.

At first, the trail passes through a peaceful bamboo forest before progressively inclining higher. The journey begins peacefully and gently thanks to the thick greenery. After about an hour, you’ll reach Dovan, a little settlement where many hikers stop for a quick rest.

Dovan is located at an elevation of 2,500 m. While taking a rest here you can enjoy the soundscape of rushing rivers and chirping birds surrounding. Now leaving Dovan you will pass through lush alpine forests interspersed with cascading waterfalls.

Even though the trail gets steeper and more rugged as you go along, the peaceful surroundings and refreshing forest air make the journey enjoyable. You’ll arrive in Himalaya, another community with basic facilities where you can stop for lunch or a short snack, around halfway through.

The peaks of Hiunchuli and Annapurna South are getting closer to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) area as you continue your walk.

There are some harder ascents and narrower portions of the trail in the last stretch from the Himalaya to Deurali. As the woodlands eventually disappear, more open spaces with jagged cliffs, rocks, and rocky ground take their place. The Modhi River Gorge, which the trail follows here, provides a breathtaking background for this region of the trip. Finally, you’ll arrive at Deurali which is situated at an altitude of 3,230 m.

Deurali is a picturesque village which is surrounded by rugged mountain cliffs. From Deurali you can get your first-close views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks. At this altitude the temperature at night becomes cold so make sure to put on warm clothes. After having a delicious dinner you will spend your night in the cozy teahouse of Deurali.

Today will be the most exciting day as you will put your foot on the legendary Annapurna Base Camp. After having breakfast early in the morning with a sense of pride and determination you will leave Deurali with your trekking guide.

Today’s hike will be around six hours, and because of the steep parts and altitude gain, the difficulty level will be moderate to demanding. This hike section is truly amazing, despite the difficulty of climbing farther into the Annapurna Sanctuary, which is surrounded by gorgeous Himalayan peaks.

Leaving Deurali you will climb through the ascending trail through a rocky landscape with sparse vegetation. At higher altitudes, the view starts to become more open and you’ll catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks and massive glacial valleys. After about 2–2.5 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m / 12,139 ft).

It is a popular stop to take a break for rest and enjoy the 360-degree views of the mountains, including Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.

Now further walking from the Machhapuchhre base camp the terrain starts to change. There are fewer steep sections as the terrain gets wider and more open while passing on the trail of the breathtaking Annapurna Sanctuary.

Annapurna Sanctuary is a high glacial basin surrounded by towering peaks. Even though this section is flat due to high altitude you need to be careful of the altitude effects such as Altitude Sickness, Dehydration, Increased Sun Exposure, and Temperature Fluctuations.

Keeping your spirits high and trekking alongside glacial streams you will now arrive at the Annapurna Base Camp around mid-afternoon.

When you step into the ABC your heart will be full of excitement, joy, and filled with laughter. Take your time to enjoy the panoramic views of the Annapurna massif( 8,091 m), the 10th highest mountain in the world. You will spend the night in a tea house near base camp.

Important Tips for the Day

• Altitude Awareness: From Deurali to ABC you will gain altitude so walking at high altitude makes sure to acclimate properly. Walk at a steady pace and take breaks if needed. Stay hydrated and listen to your body for any signs of altitude sickness.
• Warm Clothing: Night at the high altitude of Annapurna Base Camp is chilly so while you are in a tea house make sure to wear warm clothes like an insulated jacket, gloves, and a warm hat.
• Hydration & Snacks: Drink water regularly to keep your body hydrated and carry some energy bars to keep yourself fueled
• Photography Stops: Today will be remarkable so make sure to keep your camera or mobile ready to take the perfect picture of the stunning natural beauty throughout the journey. And don’t forget later in the evening to witness the mesmerizing view of the sunset at ABC.

Today you will depart from the Annapurna Base Camp trek after successfully conquering it. Early in the morning for the last final time, you will enjoy the breathtaking sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp.

Then after that, you will have breakfast in the tea house before leaving base camp. You will start to step on a descending trail through the Annapurna Sanctuary. Even though you are descending make sure to keep your body hydrated and walk carefully.

Walking about 2–3 hours in Annapurna Sanctuary you will reach MBC (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). Because it’s early in the morning, you can enjoy a brief rest here while taking in the breathtaking panoramic vista of the Himalayan ranges.

Further walking from the MBC now the terrain changes as you start to see the vegetation. Walking in rocky and steep descents you will reach Deurali. Further walking for another couple of hours, you’ll reach Himalaya and then Dovan. You will stop at the Dovan to take a well-deserved tea and lunch.

Again retracting through the lush green forest, cascading waterfalls, and rushing rivers you will arrive at Bamboo. You will check into the tea house and spend the night there after you arrive in Bamboo.

Today, the trip from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda will take roughly six hours. With multiple steep descents and a final climb to reach Jhinu Danda, it’s quite an exhausting trek.

Returning to Sinuwa (2,360 m/7,742 ft) first, then You will proceed to descend toward the Chhomrong Khola River from Sinuwa. After crossing the suspension bridge you will start the strenuous climb up the stone steps that lead back to Chomrong (2,170 m/7,119 ft).

Once you arrive in Chomrong you will stop for the well-deserved lunch and for rest. You will enjoy lunch in the tea house with the beautiful backdrop views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. After lunch, you will walk through the descending trail toward Jhinu Danda.

This charming village is situated at a lower elevation and is reached via stone steps and wooden walkways. The route offers a view of the Annapurna region’s rural way of life with its terraced fields and scattered communities. Once you arrive at Jhinu Danda you will enter the tea house to rest for a while. Since you will arrive by mid-to-late afternoon, you will have plenty of time to explore this village.

Just walking for around a 20-minute downhill walk from the village will bring you to the natural hot springs along the banks of the Modi Khola river. If you want to take a hot bath in a natural hot spring make sure to bring a towel and clothes for changing.

Bathing here is like doing a natural massage for your body after a strenuous hike to ABC. It is believed that taking a bath in this natural hot spring will cure skin disease.

You will spend the night in a pleasant and comfortable tea house at one of the Jhinu Danda tea houses after exploring the area.

Today you will begin your trek by travelling from Jhinu danda to Nayapul which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach. After breakfast pack your all belongings and get ready to descend through the scenic trails.

As you trek downhill, you’ll pass lush forests, terraced farmlands, and small traditional settlements. During the walk, you can see the local people engaging in agricultural activities, animal husbandry, and daily lifestyle. Now you will follow the route following the Modi Khola River.

Take time to pause for a while on the route to enjoy the surrounding nature and capture a few last images of the stunning Annapurna mountain slopes.

Your Annapurna Base Camp trek 12-day trek ends once you reach Nayapul. Now you will say goodbye to your trekking guide and porter who help you to achieve your dream. After that, you will take a ride in a private vehicle which we have arranged for you in Nayapul.

Then riding for around 2 hours from Nayapul you will reach Pokhara. After you check in the hotel you can take a rest for a while. You can keep your language in the hotel later in the evening and go for a walk around the Lakeside Pokhara.

There are lots of restaurants, pubs, cafes, and spas where you can relax and enjoy the night beauty of Pokhara and peaceful Phewa Lake.

Note: If you have a flight on this day we will arrange the transportation for the Pokhara International from your hotel. The Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes around 30 minutes on average. Once you reach the Kathmandu airport we will pick you up and escort you to the hotel in our private vehicle.

Today, you will be driven back to Kathmandu. The route will give you an even better outlook of the hills and the valleys that you will witness. 

After arriving in Kathmandu, check into your pre-arranged hotel, and you may have free and easy or perhaps go on a nightlife adventure and grab a drink or a two for yourself.

This day is kept as a leisure day so that in case of weather or flight delays, you have the flexibility to adjust your plans without missing out on any key experiences. If everything goes as per plan you can use this day to explore Kathmandu city the place you choose to travel.

Here are some suggestions for the top places that you must visit on this leisure day:

Pashupatinath Temple: The UNESCO World Heritage site and for Hindu must-visit destination for Hindus is Pashupatinath temple which you can reach in just a 30-minute ride in public and a 20-minute ride in a taxi. There are lots of temples, statues, sadhu, guru, and ceremonial activities you can watch.

Also if you are traveling in the evening make sure to visit around 6 pm so you can watch beautiful evening aarti that involves chanting, singing, dancing, and lighting oil lamps. 

Boudhanath: Boudhanath is another UNESCO World Heritage site that is close to the Pashupatinath temple around 2.1 km in distance. This Buddhist pilgrimage site is popular for both local and domestic tourists. You can see many people circling the main giant dome and spinning the prayer wheels as they chant mantras.

This stupa is surrounded by shops, cafés, and monasteries offering a glimpse into the vibrant Tibetan culture. From the rooftop cafes, you can get an astonishing view of the stupa.

Swayambhunath Temple: Also referred to as the monkey temple, Swayambhunath Temple is only 4 kilometers from Thamel and can be reached on foot in about 30 minutes. You can get a 360-degree view of Kathmandu city from this temple.

Your tour will be made more vibrant and entertaining by taking in the vast number of monkeys that are the palace’s main attraction. There is a lot to see and do here, including exploring the temple, colorful prayer flags, prayer wheels, and finely carved shrines.

Basantapur: Basantapur which is also known by its many names like freak street, Hanuman Dhoka, Kathmandu’s Royal Palace.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a top destination for the local people as well as international tourists due to its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

There are lots of things to do and see in this place but If you are traveling here make sure to visit the Museum and House of Living Goddess Kumari.

Note: While traveling for Sightseeing make sure to carry some Nepalese currency with you as to enter the UNESCO Heritage sites you need to pay a certain fee.

Also, wear decent clothes and follow the rules and regulations properly, and most importantly make sure to respect the local culture and traditions.

Your sweet days in Nepal finally come to an end on the 12th day of your visit in Nepal. Today you will depart from this beautiful country.

Depending upon your scheduled flight we will come to receive you at the hotel to drop you to the airport for the flight. Remember that you need to reach the airport 3 hours early before your scheduled flight. Have a safe Flight!!!!