ABC 360-degree snow-capped peak view
Get up close to Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and many snow-capped peaks, and experience the awe of being surrounded by the Himalayas at the base camp.
Nepal High Mountain Trekking Small Group Tour - 12 Days 11 Nights
Nepal ABC 12-Day Trek | Matkhiu–ABC–Jhinu | Minimum 2 Travellers
Kathmandu · Pokhara · Chhomrong · Bamboo · Deurali · MBC · Annapurna Base Camp
12 days and 11 nightsKathmandu pick-up and drop-off service
From HKD 7,580 per personA group of at least 2 people is required to form a group.
Maximum 4,130 metersAnnapurna Base Camp
Medium difficultyHiking for approximately 5 to 8 hours daily
Private small group tour price reference
Know your budget, then customize according to your needs.
From HK$7,580 per person
- Minimum number of participants required to form a group
- 2 people
- Price terms
- Prices are confirmed based on departure date, number of travelers, and room type.
- Single room surcharge
- US$150
Prices for private tours are subject to change based on departure date, number of travelers, room type, and availability. The final price will be confirmed by Travel Mama.
ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK
Step by step, you enter the embrace of the Annapurna Mountains, passing through river valleys and rhododendron forests.
The journey begins at Kathmandu and Pokhara, traversing rice terraces, forests, high-altitude villages, and glacial landscapes, passing Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and finally reaching Annapurna Base Camp at an altitude of 4,130 meters. The trek is equipped with licensed English-speaking guides/porters, making it suitable for travelers with reasonable physical fitness who wish to challenge themselves with a high-altitude trek in Nepal for the first time.
Guides, porters and mountaineering equipment
Includes a licensed English-speaking guide/porter, trekking permits, first aid kit, waterproof climbing bag, sleeping bag, and trekking poles.
Mountain Hiking and Urban Culture
After completing the ABC route, return to Pokhara and Kathmandu for city sightseeing, balancing the mountain challenge with a Nepalese cultural experience.
Tour Included
- A group of at least 2 people is required to form a group.
- Private Kathmandu Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Kathmandu and Pokhara: 6 nights in 3-star hotels including breakfast
- Double rooms in mountain huts/tea houses and three meals a day during the hike.
- Round-trip domestic airfare from Kathmandu to Pokhara and transfers for the trekking section.
- Licensed English-speaking mountain guide/porter (maximum 10kg of luggage)
- Trekking permits, necessary documents and first aid kit
- Waterproof hiking bag, warm sleeping bag, trekking poles and map
- Kathmandu and Pokhara city sightseeing, farewell dinner
Exclusions
- International airfare and Nepal visa fee
- Single room surcharge: USD150 per person
- Travel and health insurance, including emergency helicopter rescue.
- Excess baggage fee
- Personal expenses such as laundry, snacks, bottled water, charging, hot water, and Wi-Fi.
- Additional accommodation and transportation costs due to force majeure
- Tips for tour guides and porters
12-DAY ITINERARY
12 Days 11 Nights Sample Itinerary
Hiking time and transportation will be adjusted according to weather, road conditions, flights and passengers' physical fitness; safety is always the top priority.
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
An airport representative will meet you according to your flight time and transfer you to the hotel. In the evening there is a trek briefing, and trekking duffel bags are handed out.
Day 2
Heading to Pokhara
After breakfast, head to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you are free to purchase hiking gear or explore at your own expense to prepare for the hike the following day.
Day 3
Matkhiu to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Drive about 4 hours from Pokhara to Matkhiu. After lunch, begin a 4-hour hike to Chhomrong.
Day 4
Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310m)
The hike involves descending through rice terraces and crossing the Chhomrong River bridge, then climbing up to Sinuwa danda, and finally traversing dense forest to reach Bamboo, a total of about 6 hours of hiking in one day.
Day 5
Bamboo to Deurali (3,200m)
Follow the uphill trail into the high-altitude region, passing Hinko Cave, Hiuchuli Peak and glaciers; as the altitude increases, the landscape gradually changes to low shrubs and alpine plants.
Day 6
Deurali to ABC (4,130 m)
Cross the valley and ascend to Bagar and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m) for a close-up view of Machapuchhre Peak. Then hike for about 2 hours to reach Annapurna Base Camp for a 360-degree view of the snow-capped mountains.
Day 7
ABC back to Bamboo (2,310m)
After breakfast, return to Bamboo via the same downhill route, which takes about 7 to 8 hours in total.
Day 8
From Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, then back to Pokhara
Descend from Kuldighar and Chhomrong villages to Jhinu Danda (1,760m), cross the suspension bridge, and then take a jeep back to Pokhara.
Day 9
Pokhara City Tour
Visit Bindabasini Temple, Seti Gorge, Gorkha Museum, International Mountain Museum, Devi's Fall, and Gupteshwor Cave.
Day 10
Return to Kathmandu
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu and check into the hotel. You are free to explore Thamel at your leisure.
Day 11
Kathmandu Cultural Tourism
Visit Swoyambhunath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, and allow time for shopping.
Day 12
Airport drop-off and end of trip
After breakfast, check out and be transferred to the airport according to your flight schedule, concluding your Nepal trekking and cultural journey.
TREK PLANNING
Services/ Facilities during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
From subtropical Pokhara the route climbs gradually to the base camp at 4,130 metres; accommodation, meals and facilities change with altitude.
Accommodation Facilities
Pokhara offers standard hotels with relatively complete facilities; during the trek, guests will stay in double rooms at teahouses/hostels. Some rooms have en-suite bathrooms, while others share bathrooms.
Hiking meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, with options available from the teahouse menu. The mountain ingredients are mostly locally grown, allowing you to enjoy organic and healthy Dal Bhat.
Safe drinking water
Safe drinking water can be purchased at tea houses, with prices typically increasing with altitude; bringing your own water purification tablets or filters can save money and reduce plastic waste.
High-altitude facilities
Huts typically provide beds, blankets, and pillows; additional blankets, Wi-Fi, hot water, and mobile phone or battery charging may be available for an extra charge.
Difficulty and beginners
It is of moderate difficulty and suitable for beginners with reasonable physical fitness. The daily hike lasts about 5 to 8 hours, with a maximum height of 4,130 meters. No prior hiking experience or technical climbing skills are required.
Physical fitness and training
It is recommended to conduct cardiopulmonary, strength, and simulated weight-bearing hiking training, and prepare for basic accommodations, unpredictable weather, and long walks. The 12-day itinerary can be adjusted in consultation with hiking experts.
Recommended personal equipment
Prepare hiking boots, layered clothing, a down jacket, water purification tablets, personal first aid supplies, sunscreen, and sunglasses; sleeping bags, trekking poles, and waterproof backpacks are available for loan during the trip.
Insurance
Insurance should be purchased that covers high-altitude hiking, medical care, and emergency evacuation, and should include costly but essential helicopter rescue services.
BEST SEASONS
Best trekking season for Annapurna Base Camp
Spring (March to May)
With comfortable temperatures, rhododendrons in bloom, and usually clear mountain views, it's a popular season for travel.
Autumn (September to November)
The weather is relatively stable and the sky is clear, making it suitable for viewing snow-capped mountains and long-distance hiking.
Winter (December to February)
With fewer people around, but cold weather and possible snowfall, some high-altitude teahouses may be closed.
Rainy season - June to August
There will be heavy rainfall, and visibility in the mountains will be unstable. The trails will be slippery and you may encounter leeches.
ABC TREK FAQ
Annapurna Base Camp FAQs
How many days does the ABC hike take?
It typically takes 7 to 12 days, depending on the starting point, pace, and whether Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing are included; this itinerary is a total of 12 days.
What is the highest altitude?
Annapurna Base Camp is at an elevation of 4,130 meters, or approximately 13,549 feet.
How difficult is it? Can beginners participate?
The difficulty level is moderate, and no technical climbing is required; beginners with reasonable physical fitness and who have completed pre-departure training can participate.
How long does it take each day?
A typical hiking day lasts about 5 to 8 hours, but the actual time depends on road conditions, weather, altitude acclimatization, and individual physical fitness.
What trekking permits are required?
An Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS-related documents are required; the cost is included in the trip.
What type of accommodation will I stay in during the trek?
Stay in a mountain hut/tea house double room that provides basic facilities; some areas share a bathroom.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness?
There is a moderate risk. Please stay hydrated, walk at the guide's pace, and pay attention to your physical condition. If you feel unwell, please notify the guide immediately.
What equipment do I need to bring?
It is recommended to prepare suitable hiking boots, layered clothing, a down jacket, sun protection products, and sunglasses; the trip includes the borrowing of sleeping bags, trekking poles, and waterproof hiking bags.
Can I charge electronic devices?
Most teahouses along the way offer charging services, but additional fees are generally required in high-altitude areas.
What is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
A classic Nepalese trekking route leading to the base camp at the foot of Annapurna I (8,091 meters), the world's tenth highest peak.
Do I need prior hiking experience?
No, but it is recommended to do cardio, strength, and simulated hiking training before setting off.
What is the total distance of the ABC hike?
The round trip hike from the direction of Pokhara is approximately 98 kilometers (60 miles), but the actual distance may vary depending on the pick-up and drop-off points and the route.
What month is best to travel?
Generally, March to May and September to November are the most ideal months, as the weather is more stable and visibility in the snow-capped mountains is usually better.
Can I complete the ABC hike alone?
Some travelers will hike alone, but this tour includes licensed guides who also act as porters to enhance navigation and emergency response support.
Is hiking at Annapurna Base Camp safe?
With the right season, reasonable pace, and professional guide, it can generally be completed safely; however, it is still necessary to pay attention to altitude sickness, weather, and changes in road conditions.
Important Notes
- Once an order is confirmed, it is non-refundable and non-changeable. Orders are generally confirmed within 3 business days.
- The itinerary may be subject to safety adjustments based on weather, road conditions, flights, room availability, and the health status of passengers.
- Advance booking is recommended to confirm hotel, hut, and guide arrangements.
- Please wear layered, warm clothing suitable for high-altitude hiking and broken-in hiking boots.
- Early check-in, late check-out, and connecting rooms are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.
- Package code: M0-100912.
TRAVEL MAMA Itinerary Inquiry
Enquire about ABC Nepal trekking tour departure dates
Fill in your expected departure date, number of people traveling with you, and hiking experience, and the Travel Mama team will confirm your guide, accommodation, and itinerary arrangements.
1
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel
Our airport representative will meet you at the airport according to your flight information and take you to your hotel. In the evening, we will give a briefing on the hiking itinerary and distribute hiking bags.
2
Day 02：Pokhara
After breakfast, take a tour bus to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will have free time to purchase hiking equipment or explore Pokhara at your own expense.
3
Day 03: Head to Matkhiu and begin the hike to Chhomrong.
After breakfast, drive about 4 hours from Pokhara (823m) to Matkhiu. After lunch, start hiking and reach Chhomrong (2170m) in about 4 hours.
Includes: accommodation / lunch / dinner
4
Day 04: Chhomrong ➔ Bamboo (2310m)
After breakfast, descend the slope through the terraced fields, cross the Chhomrong River bridge, and ascend to the small village of Sinuwa danda to enjoy the green hillside scenery. Continue trekking through dense forest to Bamboo, approximately a 6-hour hike.
Includes: accommodation / breakfast / lunch / dinner
5
Day 05: Bamboo ➔ Deurali (3200m)
After breakfast, we will enter the high-altitude region along a scenic uphill trail, passing Hinko Cave, Hiuchuli Peak, and glaciers. Lunch will be at Deurali. At higher elevations, only low shrubs and alpine plants will be visible.
Includes: accommodation / breakfast / lunch / dinner
6
Day 06: Deurali ➔ ABC (4130m)
Crossing the valley, gradually ascend to Bagar and arrive at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC, 3700m), where you can enjoy close-up views of Machhapuchhre and several snow-capped peaks. After another 2 hours of hiking, reach Annapurna Base Camp (ABC, 4130m) to enjoy a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains.
Includes: accommodation / breakfast / lunch / dinner
7
Day 07: ABC ➔ Bamboo (2310m)
After breakfast, return to Bamboo via the same downhill route, which takes about 7-8 hours in total. Along the way, relive the emotions of reaching the summit.
Includes: accommodation / breakfast / lunch / dinner
8
Day 08: Bamboo ➔ Jhinu Danda ➔ Matkhiu ➔ Pokhara
After breakfast, we will ascend to Kuldighar, then descend via Chhomrong khola to Chhomrong village, and continue descending to Jhinu Danda (1760m). After crossing the suspension bridge, we will take a jeep back to Pokhara to celebrate the successful completion of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Includes: accommodation / breakfast / lunch / dinner
9
Day 09: Pokhara City Tour
Sightseeing begins around 9:00 AM after breakfast:
– Bindabasini Temple
– Seti Gorge
– Gorkha Museum
– International Mountain Museum
– Devi's Fall
– Gupteshwor Cave
Includes: accommodation / breakfast
10
Day 10: Return to Kathmandu
After breakfast at 7:00, head to the bus station to take a bus back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Free time in Thamel.
Meals: Breakfast
11
Day 11: Kathmandu sightseeing & shopping (free time)
Today's attractions:
– Swoyambhunath Stupa
– Patan Durbar Square
– Bouddhanath Stupa
– Pashupatinath Temple
Meals: Breakfast
12
Day 12: End of trip, airport transfer
After breakfast, check out and head to the airport to catch your flight home, concluding your unforgettable trekking and cultural journey through Nepal.
Meals: Breakfast
Best Season for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The best time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. But undoubtedly, spring (March, April and May) and autumn (September, October and November) are the best times to go.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April, March & May (Spring):During spring, the trail is enhanced by the blooming rhododendrons, pleasant weather and open clear view of mountains. The temperature is moderate making trekking comfortable. This time is also ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in December, January and February (Winter):If you wish to avoid crowds and enjoy some alone time with nature then taking this trip during December, January or February could also be an option. The snow-covered trails of Annapurna Base Camp Trek from December to February create a magical wonderland for any travel seekers. However, the temperature during this time could be harsh for most trekkers due to extreme cold, snowfall and closed teahouses in the upper region.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in September, October and November (Autumn):In autumn, the skies are clear, offering breathtaking mountain views and stable trekking conditions.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in June, July and August (Summer/ Monsoon):Trekking in the Summer or Monsoon seasons will be affected by rain, cloudy weather and obscured views, and you may encounter leeches.
Why choose Annapurna Base Camp Trekking in Nepal?
The ABC, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking adventures offering majestic, breathtaking Mountain views, diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. This customizable 12-day trek takes you to the base of the world’s 10th tallest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8,091 m). The trek will take you through the lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and traditional Gurung Villages in the Western Region of Nepal.
Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will require two permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):This permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, one of the protected regions of Nepal. The funds collected from the permit helps to support conservation efforts and the local communities of the region.
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card: The TIMS card is essential for tracking trekkers for their safety. It helps authorities monitor trekking activities and provide necessary assistance in case of emergencies.
Services/ Facilities during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Accommodation Facilities
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from the sub-tropical region of Nepal i.e. Pokhara and ascents to the Alpine Region of Nepal i.e. Annapurna Base Camp. In a well- populated/ developed city like Pokhara, you will be staying at a standard hotel providing many amenities. But during the trek, you will be staying at the Tea House/Lodge with the twin bed. Some places have attached bathrooms, whereas you need to use shared bathrooms in some places. The accommodation style and facilities are pretty similar during the trek.
Meals
For meals, we provide three meals per day (i.e. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner per day) from the selected menu as available in the lodge and tea house. Food during the trek is not so well decorated as in Kathmandu and Pokhara however; most of the food is prepared by the local people in their fields. We highly recommend you try Dal Bhat during the trek. The food is organic, delicious, and quite healthy.
Drinking water
Safe drinking water is available for purchase at teahouses, but the cost increases as you go higher. Carrying a water purification system, like tablets or a filter, can save money and reduce plastic waste.
Amenities
As you ascend to higher altitude, the amenities are pretty limited. You will be provided with basic accommodation, meals and facilities like one blanket, and pillow. But other than that, you might be required to pay for an extra blanket, use Wi-Fi, and hot water facilities, charge your phones, batteries and many more.
What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty level? Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?
Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty is ofmoderate level.This trek is suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness. The elevation gain is around 2000 m to 3000 m gain. You’ll be trekking for 5 to 8 hours daily and the maximum altitude is at Annapurna Base Camp with an altitude of 4,130 m. So, prior trekking experience is not necessary, but it is recommended to have physical training and exercise.
Fitness/ Training required for Annapurna Base Camp
This trek is of moderate difficulty, and suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level. The total trek of 12 days, but can be modified according to your schedule by consulting with our trekking expert. Since the trek is not that difficult, regular cardio workouts, strength training, and practice hikes before the trek will enhance your endurance and make the journey more enjoyable.
You need to have a positive mindset and adaptability for basic accommodations, unpredictable weather, and long trekking days. For the essentials, Proper trekking boots, layered clothing, a down jacket, a sleeping bag (provided by the company), trekking poles, Water purification tablets, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended.
Travel Insurance required during the Annapurna Base Camp Hike
On any kind of high-altitude trekking, we recommend that you buy insurance. Insurance is necessary to avoid any kinds of risks and mishaps from occurring. As you will be ascending to a higher altitude, there might be very few medical facilities. So, it would be better to have insurance before trekking. Also, ensure that your policy covers emergency evacuations, including helicopter rescues, which are costly but crucial in case of emergencies.
Q1. What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and iconic destinations, leading to the base of Annapurna I (8,091 m), which is the 10th tallest mountain in the world. The trek offers stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural experience and hospitality from the people of Gurung and Magar Village.
Q2. How long is Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek usually takes around 7 to 12 days, depending on the starting point and the required (customized) itinerary.
Q3. What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek maximum altitude?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek maximum altitude is at Annapurna Base Camp with the height of 4,130 m above the sea level.
Q4. What is the Annapurna Base Camp altitude?
The altitude of Annapurna Base Camp is 4,130 m and the Annapurna Base Camp altitude in feet is 13,549 ft.
Q5. How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is of moderate difficulty, suitable for trekkers with average fitness. There is no technical climbing during this trek but it does include steep ascents, stone steps and altitude challenges.
Q6. Is prior trekking experience necessary?
No, trekking experience is not necessary. But, make sure to do some exercise before going for ABC Trek.
Q7. What is the total distance of Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek total distance of round hike from Pokhara is around 98 km (60 miles).
Q8. Are any permits required for Annapurna Base Camp Trekking?
Yes, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card are required for ABC Trek.
Q9. When is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek is March, April, May and September, October, November, undoubtedly as they are the best season with clear skies, and excellent mountain views.
Q10. What kind of accommodation is available during the trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
Teahouse lodges with basic amenities are available throughout the trail.
Q11. Can I do the trek solo to Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, ABC trek is quite safe for solo trekkers but hiring a guide or porter is advisable for safety and navigation.
Q12. Is Annapurna Base Camp Trek safe?
Yes, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is very safe for trekkers.
Q13. What type of gear is essential?
Warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag, and trekking poles are recommended.
Q14. What is the risk of altitude sickness on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
There is moderate risk of altitude sickness during the trek. As the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp is at 4,130 m, that can cause mild symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). So, acclimatization and hydration are crucial.
Q15. Is it possible to charge electronics on the trail?
Yes, but charging facilities may have additional costs at higher altitudes.