12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek
12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Exploring traditional Gurung villages of immense culture with age-old heritage
- A glimpse of Rural Nepalese lifestyle
- Short and adventurous walks at the foot of the world’s tenth highest mountain, Mt. Annapurna
- Spectacular views of Mt Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Manaslu
- Amazing forest covered in rhododendron-magnolia trees with magnificent views
- Overnight in the shadow of Annapurna base camp
- Relaxing Hot spring at Jhinu Danda
About the 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is one of the best trekking routes so far left untouched by modern civilization. Compared to other trekking areas of Nepal, Annapurna Base Camp Trekking areas in Nepal is the only Trekking route so far not disturb by the road construction.
In general Annapurna Base Camp Trekking starts from Pokhara and ends at Pokhara. Our trek begins at Nayapul, after a short half-hour drive from Pokhara, we follow the trail that takes us through dense forests of rhododendrons and bamboo, over fast-flowing rivers on a suspension bridge to the traditional village of the indigenous Gurung community.
The warm hospitable people of the village will greet you warmly and happily interact with you during your overnight stay there. As we ascend higher the scenery changes. From the lush forests and grass pastures, the landscape slowly turns to rocky passes and steep cliff faces and the stunning view of the snow-capped peak.
When we finally reach our destination at Annapurna base camp where everything's changed you will face a close view of Annapurna range.
Brief Itinerary: 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Kathmandu |
Kathmandu |
| Day 2 |
Sightseeing Kathmandu |
Kathmandu |
| Day 3 |
Drive to Pokhara (By tourist sharing bus) |
Pokhara |
| Day 4 |
Pokhara to Tikhedhunga |
Tikhedhunga |
| Day 5 |
Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani |
Ghorepani |
| Day 6 |
Hike to Poonhil - Trek to Tadapani |
Tadapani |
| Day 7 |
Tadapani to Chomrong |
Chamrong |
| Day 8 |
Chhomrong to Himalayan Hotel |
Himalayan Hotel |
| Day 9 |
Himalayan Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp |
Annapurna Base Camp |
| Day 10 |
Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo |
Bamboo |
| Day 11 |
Bamboo to Jhinu and hot spring |
Jhinu Danda |
| Day 12 |
Jhinu to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara |
Pokhara |
Itinerary: 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Day 1 - Welcome to Kathmandu
You will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members.
Day 2 - Sightseeing Kathmandu
- After Breakfast, we will drive with our private vehicle towards our three sightseeing points in Kathmandu (Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath).
- We visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the bank of the holy River Bagmati. Here, we visit Hindu holy men (Sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats.
- After Pashupatinath, we visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where we observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa.
- We take a lunch break in front of the Stupa. After a lunch break, we will visit Swayambhunath.
Day 3 - Drive to Pokhara (By tourist sharing bus)
After an early breakfast, we head towards Pokhara by a tourist bus (probably 6-7 hours journey). On our way, we can see the picturesque Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers along green and rocky mountains, rivers connecting each other and small springs too. Pokhara is a beautiful valley set on the banks of the Phewa and begnas Lake, also known for its panoramic views of Annapurna Range. Pokhara is a lakeside tourist's paradise with many facilities for travellers. Overnight at Pokhara.
Day 4 - Pokhara to Tikhedhunga
After having breakfast early in the morning in pokhara we drive to Nayapul (30 min drive) and we start our first day of trek through small villages with the panoramic view of mountains. We will continue our journey to Tikhedhunga passing over Birethanti Bazaar (1065m.). It is an easy hike passing through Hile (small village). Although the route is generally uphill and steep at places, you will enjoy the experience of trekking on an undulating landscape, past picturesque Magar villages. We ascend gently to the final destination of the day. Overnight at Tikhedhunga.
Day 5 - Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
After breakfast, early morning we will hike to reach Ghorepani. We will start our day with steep uphill climbing where we will reach Ulleri Village. At Ulleri, you will be able to witness the exquisite culture of the Magar people. We will walk through the beautiful oak and rhododendron forests before we reach Nangethanti for our lunch.
After walking a few more hours, we will reach our destination Ghorepani (2,840m). During the journey, we will see a good view of Machhapuchhare known as mount FishTail (6,997m/22,950 feet), mount Hiunchuli (6,441m/21,127 feet.) and as well as Annapurna (7,219m/23,678 feet) south. Ghorepani is known for offering travellers breathtaking sceneries of the mountains. Overnight at Ghorepani.
Day 6 - Hike to Poonhil - Trek to Tadapani
Today will be a beautiful day. We will have an early start of the day as we begin before sunrise to ascend Poon Hill in time to view the sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges. A beautiful view of numerous peaks including Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, V, Dhampus Peak, Nilgiri, Barahsikhar, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Fishtail etc will be witnessed from here. After taking pictures at Poonhill we will hike down to Ghorepani.
After a nourishing breakfast there, we will continue our climb along the ridges through pine and rhododendron forests. It will bring us to Deurali (2,690m). A short incline from there will bring us to our destination for today, Tadapani (2,610m). Overnight at Tadapani.
Day 7 - Tadapani to Chomrong
Today will be the easiest trek by descending gently all the way through Rhododendron, oak and other kinds of dense forests. We will steep descent to Kimron River, and up to Chhomrong, on our way, we will see the great view of Annapurna South, Fishtail mountain. It is a great place situated at the lap of mighty Annapurna massif. Overnight at Chomrong.
Day 8 - Chhomrong to Himalayan Hotel
Today, we passed through the rainforest over stone steps across Chhomrong Khola and then uphill through the deep bamboo and rhododendron forest to the village of Doban. Overnight at Himalayan hotel.
Day 9 - Himalayan Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp
We follow a route through the narrow gorge Modi Khola glacier valley pass Machhapuchhre Base Camp and end up to Annapurna base camp. We will be walking close by the Annapurna glaciers. For annapurna base camp we get to see a 360 degree view complete Annapurna range. Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp.
Day 10 - Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
This is perhaps the longest day of the trek. You will be tracing back the same route you took to reach ABC all the way to Bamboo – crossing MBC, Deurali, Himalaya and Dovan. Today’s trek includes long stretches of steep descent interspersed with short ascents. Himalaya is a good place to stop for lunch. Overnight at Bamboo.
Day 11 - Bamboo to Jhinu and hot spring
The route passes through beautiful fields of rhododendron flowers, oaks and bamboo. We trek through Sinuwa, cross the Chhomrong Khola and continue on to Chhumrung Village. From there it’s a hard descent to Jhinu Danda. Jhinu Danda is a small local commercial village where we stay tonight. The view of the sub tropical forests from Jhinu is one of the best. Jhinu faces Modi Khola and is famous for hot springs. Enjoy a nice hot water spring bath here. Overnight at Jhinu
Day 12 - Jhinu to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
After leaving Jhinu Danda we follow the plain road along the side of Modi Khola. Walking for 4 to 5 hrs we cross Birethanti and reach Nayapul. And we take a ride from Nayapul to Pokhara where we end our trek. Overnight at Pokhara.
Note: Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary, but as this is Adventure Travel in the mountains, we cannot guarantee it. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns and the health of fellow travellers can all contribute to changes. We will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but an easy-going nature is an asset!
What's Included
-
Airport pickup and drop off services
-
All accommodation during the trek (in lodges and guesthouses)
-
Both way transportation from Kathmandu - Pokhara and Pokhara - Kathmandu
-
Two way private transportation between Pokhara and Nayapul
-
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee
-
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
-
All government, Local taxes and official Expenses
-
A highly experienced, English-speaking trekking guide (8 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porter to help trekkers luggage. (2 trekkers:1 porter "9 kg per trekker max limit")
-
Coverage of Guides and Porters, Their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight and other necessary equipment
-
Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket and a duffel bag (in case you don't have them). They have to be returned after the trek.
-
A first aid kit and basic supplies appropriate for the group size. In a worst case scenario, arrangements of an emergency helicopter evacuation service (to be paid for by your travel insurance). Note: if you require or are taking specific medications it is critical that you discuss this with us prior to your trip departure
-
Farewell Dinner at the end of the trek
Note: The local tea houses are basic but clean and they do not often have attached bathrooms or hot showers. The price is based on twin share and does not include any extra charge that lodge owners may levy for single rooms, attached bathrooms or hot showers (if these facilities are available) or for battery charging. We can’t know in advance what they may charge for such things in the different lodges along the way, so we prefer to leave this cost out, rather than pass along an estimated charge to you.
What's Excluded
-
International flights to and from Kathmandu; Nepal visa fees and international airport taxes; any excess baggage charges
-
Comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and emergency rescue / evacuation that covers all of the activities you will undertake during your trip should this be required for any reason (we require this as the minimum insurance cover)
-
Services and activities not mentioned in the detailed itinerary above (eg additional nights, optional trips and sightseeing tours)
-
Additional costs or delays caused by out of management control, for example, landslide, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes etc.
-
Excess baggage charges (Limit is 9kg per Person)
-
Any gear or equipment that you may need to rent/buy - please ask us if you would like any advice about gear to bring/buy/rent
-
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early return from the trek.
-
Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters etc
-
Personal clothing and gear
-
All Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after we start our journey
-
Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
-
Personal expenses (eg mineral water/soft drinks/bar bills, entrance/photography fees at monasteries, laundry, telephone calls, postage, donations, extra snacks etc)
-
Costs incurred due to unforeseen events (eg caused by natural disasters, adverse road conditions / flight delays, labour strikes, fuel shortages, extreme exchange rate changes, etc)
-
Any extra charge that tea house owners may levy for single rooms, attached bathrooms, or hot showers (if these facilities are available) and charging of batteries
-
Tips for the guide, and porter (if you have added a porter to help you carry your backpack)
-
All the costs and expenses which are not listed in "cost includes" will be counted as Excludes
Best Season or Time to Trek
The weather is one of the most important factors to look before you decide to trek to the Annapurna region. People trek 12 months of the year up to the Annapurna region but certainly, there are ups and downs in every season.
Spring Season (March, April, May)
Trekking to the Annapurna region during the spring season is the second most popular time of the year. Spring falls in the months of March, April and May with warming weather, low precipitation and clear blue sky where the view of Annapurna range is highly visible. This is the time when the trek routes bloom in Rhododendron, Magnolia, and many other alpine flowers. This is the time when the chilling cold and hazy days start turning warmer. The nights and mornings are still a bit chilly while the days are much hotter. You can trek in light clothes and feel more comfortable on the trek route.
The coldest of the spring months is March where the temperature can go below 0 degrees Celsius on the coldest of days. But April and May are much warmer and the temperature is higher as compared to March. Average daily temperature for ABC region at this time is 15-18 degrees at day and 7-8 degrees at night. The lower parts of the Annapurna region trek might be hot during spring.
In spring, the ecosystem of the Annapurna region becomes totally flourishing. If you love flowers, rhododendrons are in full bloom sweeping ascending altitudes with its lofty color and beauty.
Summer Season (June, July, August)
Summer is known as the monsoon season in Nepal. The temperature is quite high, especially during the day. While in the evenings the temperature is quite moderate. The temperature is high during these months, especially on the Annapurna lowlands. The average daily temperature for the trek ranges around 18 to 19-degrees during the day and 10 to 12-degrees at night.
Rain during monsoon is not unending. Most of the time, it rains for a certain period of time after which the skies are clear and you can resume trekking. Also, it doesn’t rain every day during the monsoon. So you don’t have to worry about spending many days idly.
While packing for trekking in the Annapurna region during summer, make sure you have trekking boots that have a firm grip as the tracks might get slippery. You should also bring rain covers, waterproof down jackets as well as trousers. Umbrella is another piece of equipment that you will need for summer trekking in Annapurna Base Camp.
Autumn Season (September, October, November)
Autumn is the best season for all trekkers to trek in Nepal around Annapurna range. This is the time when the monsoon rain has already washed the dust and cleaned the whole trails with high visibility. Clear visibility offers stunning views of peaks like Annapurna mountain range, mount Machapuchhre, Himchuli, Gangapurna and many more. Also, the smiling lush vegetations greenified everywhere on the trail offers the best experiences.
On the lower reaches, the weather is generally warm. As you get higher in altitude temperatures drop considerably. Average daily temperature for Annapurna region in this season is 14-15 degrees at day and 5-8 degrees (or even freezing temperature) at night. Major festivals in Nepal fall during this season. There is a joyous environment all around. You will get a chance to experience the local culture and traditions closely.
Winter Season (December, January, February)
Trekking to the Annapurna region in the winter season is definitely a challenge. But for those who love some thrill and extra adventure, winter is the best time. The winter season has the coldest weather in the Annapurna region. The temperature drops throughout the region so you can expect this trek to be a cold adventure. Normally the daytime temperature can range between 9-12 degree Celsius while evenings can drop to sub-zero degrees.
The mornings are foggy in winter but the afternoons are usually clear where the mountain vistas are at their best. Also, there is occasional snowfall in the mountains. Though the weather is cold you will find warm meals in the tea houses. Some tea houses also let you into their kitchen area where you can warm yourself.
The trails will also be empty which makes the trek stress free and peaceful one.
Packing list / Equipment checklist
List of Equipment for 12 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek
It is recommended to carry the basic clothing and accessories needed for the trek. The following belongings are suggested that should be brought, although we understand that our clients have their own preference for clothing, we have listed some useful clothing during the trek. Porters will be carrying the main luggage which should not exceed more than 18kg (one porter will carry two people's luggage, 9 kg for each).
Upper Body
- Headband or Beanie
- Neck Gaiter or Balaclava
- Hat for Sun Protection
Hands
- Inner Gloves
- Outer insulated gloves
Core Body
- Base Layer
- Insulated Jacket
- Outer Layer
- Trekking Shirts/T-Shirt
- Fleece Jacket
- Hard Shell Jacket and Rain Gear
Lower Body
- Base Layer
- Trekking trousers and shorts
- Rain and Windproof Trousers
- Underwear
Feet
- Hiking Boots
- Trekking shoes/sandals
- Hiking/Thermal Socks
- Gaiters (not necessary)
Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping bag
- Liner
- Earplugs
Bags and Backpacks
- Duffle bag
- Backpack
- Daypack
- Raincover
Miscellaneous & Accessories
- Trekking Poles
- Head Torch
- Sunglass
- Sunscreen/Lip balm/Wipes/Hand Sanitizer/Toiletries
- Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder
- Small Locks
- Trekking Towel
- Waterproof Ziplock Bags
- Camera/Video Camera/Extra Batteries/ Extra Chargers
- Notebook/Journal and Pen (optional)
- Playing Cards/Book/Kindle (optional)
- Water Purification Tablets
- General Medications
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Blister Plasters
- Oximeter
- Durable wallet for travel documents, money & passport
- Favourite snack foods (No more than 2 pounds)
Accommodation
Teahouse accommodation is the classic form of trekking accommodation in ABC trail. Along the way to Annapurna Base Camp, most of the tea houses are built and managed by local villagers. These tea houses are specially designed to provide the basic facilities for trekkers to take rest.
-
Rooms
Basically, you’ll find twin-basis type of accommodation on the ABC trail. Most single rooms have twin beds with some basic furniture like a small table or a chair. Almost all tea houses provide blankets as it will be freezing at night.
-
Toilets
Mainly on the lower elevation, most lodges offer western style toilet. As you move higher on the trail you’ll find squat toilet facilities. Showers do not always have hot water and most tea houses charge for the use of hot water.
Documents & Permits
If you are planning for a trip to Annapurna Base camp, there are different kinds of costs and permits that are involved.
TIMS Permit
TIMS card was necessary for trekkers in the Annapurna region. TIMS Card is still valid for trekkers in other regions of Nepal. TIMS is issued by Tourism Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN). There are 2 kinds of TIMS cards that are issued- one for an Independent trekker and one for an organized trekker.
TIMS Card for Independent Trekker
- Color- Green
- Cost- Rs 2000 Per Person
- Photos – 2
- Collected by- Self
TIMS Card for Organized Trekker
- Color- Blue
- Cost- Rs 1000 Per Person
- Photos – 1
- Collected by – Local Trekking Agency
You also need Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.
ACAP permit cost for SAARC Nationals : Nrs.200 (about US $2)
ACAP permit cost for Other Nationals : Nrs.2000 (about US $20)
Difficulty
Many trekking enthusiasts are often curious about the difficulty during trekking in the Annapurna region.
Trekking in this region is strenuous and adventurous at the same time. It takes you around the foothill of one of the world’s highest Himalayan ranges, the Annapurna range.
The main difficulty in this trek is the walking distance with a load on your bag. Trekking in this region is a long trek (also depends on itinerary) so your body should be able to walk for about 5-7 hours daily. You have to walk the uneven trails of ups and downs. The backpack also affects your pace and puts a heavyweight on your shoulders. Also, walking in higher altitudes can be challenging than walking in the lower altitudes. People with heart and lung problems should consult their doctors before getting on with the trek.
Being involved in a prior physical activity is a plus point. If not you will need to prepare your body for 7-8 hours of walk daily. The daily hikes are on various terrain.
Do not underestimate a high altitude trek like this one. You should never ignore any sign of altitude sickness as this is a serious issue. Drink plenty of water and allow your body to acclimatize well.
12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the highest altitude of Annapurna Base Camp?
The 12 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek doesn't go higher than 4100m.
-
What is the best season for 12 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
People can trek 12 months of the year up to the Annapurna region but the best season to go for this trek is from October to November and mid-March to mid-April. -
How many hours a day do we walk?
On average, you have to walk around 6-8 hours per day. Some days can vary from 4-5 hours a day to just 2-3 hours.
-
Do I have to hire guide/porters in 12 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
There is no necessarily need to get a guide or porters. If you go for a solo trek or through an agency it completely depends on you. But it advised taking assistance with an agency. -
Do I need permits to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, you need to have two trekking permit which is Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) & Trekker Information Management System Card (TIMS) permit. -
What happens if I get sick or get hurt while trekking?
Basically our guide will take care of this. If it is not too bad we will go down by walking, however in the event of an emergency there usually is access to a telephone line for an evacuation via helicopter.
-
Will I get the facilities of battery charging & hot shower?
You can bring your charger and charge your batteries during trekking. There is also a facility for hot water, but you may have to pay an extra $1-$2. However, you can find a hot water facility for free at a lower altitude.
-
Is there any access to the internet or WIFI?
Surprisingly most of the tea houses will offer you the wifi for free or with minimal charges. But don't rely on the speed on the internet as its very slow in this region. -
I have never done trekking yet. Is 12 days Annapurna Base Camp trek is for me?
Yes, of course, you can do it. Trekking in this region is considered to be moderate. It doesn’t involve technical climbing but it’s good to have some hiking experience.
-
How is the accommodation during the 12 days Annapurna Base Camp trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a teahouse trek, which means there are guesthouses in almost every village. However, rest assured that we will try our best to provide you with the best option that meets all of your needs. All teahouse rooms are basic and come with shared bathrooms.
-
How much luggage can I take during my trek in the Annapurna region?
The weight limit for your luggage is 9 kg per trekker, Porters will be assigned to carry your luggage, Two people will be assigned with one porter, combined luggage should not exceed more than 18 kgs. Only carry what is essential.
-
Can I extend my trek?
Yes, you can. But for this, you have to update us before the trek so that we could manage the itinerary as per your requirement.
-
How can I use toilets during the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
On the trail, you will find the Toilet in the small villages where there are restaurants and tea houses. Most toilets in this region are squat toilets. And in other options prepare to hide behind big rocks and do your business.
-
Do I need Insurance before trekking to Annapurna Base Camp?
100% Yes! Injury and altitude sickness and any other calamities may occur during the trek, so it is best to get travel insurance before you go. Better safe than sorry!
-
What is the average size of the group?
Groups can vary between 6 to 16 travelers, who typically are a mix of individuals, couples or friends traveling together who have a shared interest in outdoor adventure and nature.
-
Where can I exchange my money?
There are a number of registered money exchanges in the streets of Thamel and it's common to find near your Hotel in Kathmandu.
-
Are there any ATM’s on the Trekking route?
There will be no ATM on our trekking route. Kathmandu and Pokhara are the only places where you will find an ATM.
Please note:
- Rates are in US dollars
- Prices are valid for your specified time of travel only
- This is only an offer and no reservations have been confirmed
- Prices are subject to availability
Reviews of 12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Dear Mohammed amin, At first a big congratulation for completing your 12 days Annapurna base camp trek. And we glad to hear that you had a memorable trekking experience. Thank you for your review.
Dookma.com
Dear Grace Reesuk, Thank you so much for your feedback and the review. We have a professional team of expert guides & porters whom you can trust to carry away your weights during your journey.
Dookma.com
Dear Sophie, Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is the best trail to experience the Himalayas, meet local people, and experience local hospitality. Thank you so much for your feedback and review.
Dookma.com
- Best Price Guarantee
- No Booking Fees
- Special Discount on Group
Need to customize a package?
Tell us what you are looking for
Why Choose Dookma?
- Standard
Best & Leisure tour packages
- Selection
Handcrafted best tour destination
- Experience
1000+ travel experiences
- Support
Hassle free booking & cancellation
