Annapurna Base Camp Trek

It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you forever. Upon your arrival at Kathmandu, the representative and Guide of Gyan will greet and welcome you at the airport and escort you to Boudhanath and sightseeing.

The Buddhist shrine of Boudhanath is one of the largest Stupas in the world and one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimages plus a tourist destination in Kathmandu. It stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal directions keeping watch for righteous behavior and human prosperity.

Boudhanath is part of the shared history of Nepal and the Tibetan part of China. It is built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels and houses of Lamas or Buddhist priests, monasteries and shops ring the stupa. Monasteries are the core of Buddhist life and community. They are spiritual centers of peace, inspiration, and prayer that offer an opportunity for study and contemplation. They are a place for solace and support for the local community. The tour ends with a prayer session and the lighting of candles in one of the many monasteries around Boudhanath.

After sightseeing at Boudhanath our Guide will transfer you to Hotel/accommodation. After refreshments at the hotel, we also advise you for the preparation day of your trekking, so you can cross-check if you are well prepared for the trekking gear and clothes (you can find everything in Kathmandu with the support of our guide). In the evening there will be a group briefing and welcome group dinner.

• Altitude: 1400 meters
• Accommodation: Hotel

Today we are traveling to the Queen city of Nepal. Pokhara is known for its amazing natural beauty. The city has everything, from lakes, mountains, and hills. Pokhara offers a number of adventurous activities to its guests. The drive from Chitwan to Pokhara takes around 4-5 hours and is very scenic. After arriving at Pokhara, we will explore the lakeside and visit one of the popular tourist spots, Devis Falls. Locally known as the Patale Chhango, Devi’s Fall is a ferocious waterfall located about 2 km southwest of Pokhara Airport. The source of the waterfall is Phewa Lake. The fall cuts through the rocks to create complex caves and tunnels on its path and leaves behind a gushing sound. You can spend the rest of the day around the lakeside and enjoy the views of the lake and the Himalayas.

• Duration: 30-minute flight or 5 hours by Nasyana vehicle
• Altitude: 822 meters - Pokhara
• Distance: 200 Kilometer (Kathmandu to Pokhara)
• Accommodation: Hotel 

Our journey starts in the picturesque city of Pokhara. From Pokhara, you'll take a Gyan Tourist Vehicle to Nayapul, which is the starting point of the trek. The drive takes you through scenic landscapes, passing by terraced fields, small villages, and the beautiful Seti River.

Upon reaching Nayapul, you'll officially begin your trek on foot. The trail leads you to Birethanti, a small settlement situated at the confluence of the Modi Khola and Bhurungdi Khola rivers. The path is relatively easy and follows the Modi Khola upstream. You'll walk through a mix of paved and dirt roads, crossing a few suspension bridges and passing through charming villages.

After completing the short walk to Birethanti, you'll cross a bridge over the Modi Khola, and there you'll need to show your permits at the Annapurna Conservation Area Checkpoint. From here, the trail continues along the Bhurungdi Khola and gradually ascends through a lush forest filled with rhododendrons and oak trees.

As you climb uphill, you'll encounter a series of stone steps known as the "Ulleri Stairs" - a famous and somewhat challenging part of the trek. The stairs can be tiring but are an exciting experience as they take you higher into the mountains. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks and picturesque landscapes.

Continuing the climb, you'll pass through small villages, tea houses, and shops where you can rest and refuel with some local Nepali cuisine or a cup of tea. The town (Tikhedhunga) offers a glimpse of traditional Nepali life and a cozy atmosphere for trekkers.

• Duration: Pokhara to Nayapul - 1.5 hours (vehicle) & Nayapul to Tikhedhunga 4-5 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: Nayapul -1070 meters and - Tikhedhunga 1480 meters
• Distance: 9 Kilometer (Nayapul to Tikhedhunga)
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House  

The trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani is a popular section of the Annapurna region trek in Nepal. This part of the journey offers stunning mountain views, rhododendron forests, and a taste of the local culture. Starting from Tikhedhunga, the trail climbs steeply through a series of stone steps known as the Ulleri Stairs. The ascent can be challenging, but it's a fantastic way to get the blood pumping and prepare for higher elevations. Along the way, you'll pass through the village of Ulleri, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills. From Ulleri, the trail continues through picturesque forests of rhododendron and oak trees. As you ascend, you'll reach Banthanti, where you can take a short break and enjoy some refreshments. The trek then continues through the forest, passing streams and small settlements, until you reach Nangethanti.

After Nangethanti, the trail becomes a bit more gradual, and you'll continue through the lush rhododendron and oak forests. Depending on the time of year, the rhododendron forests can be especially vibrant and colorful, adding to the beauty of the trek. As you climb higher, you'll start to catch glimpses of the snow-capped peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. Finally, you'll reach the village of Ghorepani. Ghorepani is a popular stopover for trekkers on their way to Poon Hill, which offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. The village itself is charming and provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for trekkers, with numerous teahouses and lodges offering accommodation and meals.

• Duration: 5-7 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 2874 meters
• Distance: 9-10 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House  

Today the trek takes you from Ghorepani to Poon Hill and then continues to Tadapani. This day is one of the most memorable and rewarding parts of the Annapurna region trek, as it offers the opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill and then continue through beautiful forests to Tadapani. In the early morning before dawn, you'll wake up early to begin your hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters). The trail from Ghorepani to Poon Hill is well-marked and is an uphill climb. Poon Hill is one of the most popular vantage points in Nepal to witness the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. As the first rays of the sun touch the snow-capped peaks, the mountains glow in golden hues, creating a spectacular sight. The panoramic view includes peaks like Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Nilgiri (7,061 meters), and many others.

After Poon Hill, the trail initially descends through rhododendron and oak forests, providing a pleasant walk. You'll cross a stream and then start ascending again, passing through beautiful, terraced fields and traditional villages.

• Duration: 6-7 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: Poon Hill -3210 meters and - Tadapani 2610 meters
• Distance: 9-10 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House

Tadapani and Chhomrong are two popular trekking destinations in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trail descends through lush forests and crosses a river before ascending to Chhomrong village. Spectacular views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains along the way. Chhomrong is a beautiful Gurung village with stunning mountain views.

• Duration: 4-5 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 2170 meters
• Distance: 7-8 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House

The trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo is another stunning section of the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. This part of the trek takes you deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains and a diverse range of landscapes. The trail starts with a steep descent down a stone staircase to cross the Chhomrong Khola (river) and then ascends through terraced fields and dense forests.

You'll pass through the charming villages of Sinuwa and Kuldi, with chances to interact with the local Gurung people and experience their unique culture. The trek continues through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, and you might spot some wildlife along the way. The trail goes up and down, but overall, you will descend to Bamboo, a small settlement nestled in the forest.

• Duration: 5-6 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 2310 meters
• Distance: 10 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House

The trek from Bamboo to Deurali is a segment that takes you deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by stunning landscapes and awe-inspiring mountains. The trail from Bamboo to Deurali involves ascending through the dense forest of rhododendron and bamboo. As you trek upward, you'll be surrounded by beautiful bamboo forests and may encounter some wildlife. The trail follows the Modi Khola (river) and offers glimpses of waterfalls and cliffs along the way. Deurali is a small village located at an altitude of around 3,200 meters, and it's a popular stop for trekkers before heading to higher elevations.

Trekking from Bamboo to Deurali is a relatively shorter and moderate segment compared to some other sections of the ABC trek. However, it's essential to take it slow, stay hydrated, and be mindful of any signs of altitude sickness as you ascend to higher elevations. Throughout the trek, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains, making the journey even more memorable. As with any trek in the Himalayas, ensure you are adequately prepared, carry the necessary trekking gear, and consider hiring a local guide for a safer and more enjoyable experience. The Annapurna Sanctuary is a pristine and beautiful region, and this trek will undoubtedly leave you with incredible memories of the Nepalese Himalayas.

Note:  If you have an extra day, you can use it as an acclimatization day and explore the surrounding area. One popular side trip from Deurali is to visit Hinku Cave, which is about a 2–3-hour hike from Deurali. This day will help you adapt to the increasing altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

• Duration: 5-6 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 3230 meters
• Distance: 8 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House

The trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is one of the most breathtaking and rewarding sections of the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal. This part of the journey takes you into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering peaks and stunning glacial landscapes. The trail from Deurali to ABC involves a steady ascent through alpine meadows, moraines, and glacial valleys.

As you trek higher, the landscape changes dramatically, and you'll pass through the beautiful Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) on the way. From MBC, the trail becomes more rugged and exposed, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and other peaks. The final section of the trail takes you to Annapurna Base Camp, situated at an altitude of around 4,130 meters, surrounded by an amphitheater of majestic Himalayan mountains.

Note: If time permits you, it would be interesting to have one day stop at Annapurna Base Camp to see a breathtaking view of the morning, day, and evening of the Annapurna Himalayan Range.

• Duration: 5-6 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 4130 meters
• Distance: 10 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House

The return journey follows the same trail back, so you'll retrace your steps down the valley. Although you are retracing your steps, the journey offers different perspectives of the landscape, and you may notice things you didn't see on the way up. The downhill trek is generally faster, but it can be strenuous on your knees and muscles.

• Duration: 8-9 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 2310 meters
• Distance: 14-15 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House

The trail involves descending through bamboo and rhododendron forests, and you'll pass through the villages of Bamboo and Chhomrong before reaching Jhinu Danda. Jhinu Danda is known for its natural hot springs, a perfect spot to relax and soothe your muscles after the trek.

• Duration: 5-6 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 1780 meters
• Distance: 7-8 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel/Tea House

The final day's trek involves a gradual descent to Nayapul, where you'll finish the trek. The trek (Walk) ends at Nayapul, from where you'll take a scenic drive back to Pokhara, enjoying the views of the countryside and hills along the way.

Today you will take a rest in Pokhara and enjoy the beauty of Phewa Lake.

• Duration: 3-4 hours (Walk)
• Altitude: 822 meters
• Distance: 8 Kilometer 
• Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you will fly back to Kathmandu so please enjoy the flight back. Gyan Vehicle will drive you to the hotel and you can take a good rest with a delicious Nepali dinner with the cultural show which will be offered by the team Gyan

If Time permits team will bring you to some tourist destinations around Kathmandu such as Pashupatinath, Durbar square, Swoyambhu etc. 

• Duration: 30 minutes (flight)
• Altitude: 1400 meters
• Accommodation: Hotel

Congratulations on completing your incredible 13-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp and back to Kathmandu! We are delighted to have been a part of your adventure and to witness your determination, strength, and perseverance throughout this remarkable journey.

On behalf of our entire team, we would like to express our deepest gratitude for choosing us to be a part of your Annapurna Base Camp trek. Gyan Team will support you to prepare for your departure back home, we wish you safe travels and a smooth journey. May the memories of your Annapurna Base Camp adventure continue to inspire and motivate you in all your future endeavors. Remember, you are now part of an exclusive group of individuals who have stood at the foot of one of the world's highest peaks.

Thank you once again for choosing us as your travel companion. We hope to welcome you back soon for more extraordinary adventures in the mesmerizing land of Nepal.

Safe travels!