Skip to content

Walk, Explore and Discover

+977 9800000000

Direct call or whatsapp 24/7

Walk, Explore and Discover

+977 9851335885

Direct call or whatsapp 24/7

Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 10 Days

Key Points

DestinationAnnapurna Base Camp Trek – 10 Days
Duration10 Days
ActivitiesTrekking

Expedition Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a classic Himalayan journey combining village culture, varied landscapes and close mountain scenery in a compact 10-day itinerary. From Pokhara, the route enters the Modi Khola valley through Ghandruk and Chhomrong before climbing through bamboo, rhododendron and high-alpine terrain to the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. The high point is Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 m / 13,550 ft. Here, trekkers st

Trip Highlights

  • Reach Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 m / 13,550 ft
  • Pass Machhapuchhre Base Camp on the approach to the sanctuary
  • See Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and Machhapuchhre
  • Experience traditional Gurung settlements, including Ghandruk and Chhomrong
  • Walk through terraced hillsides, bamboo forest, rhododendron woodland and alpine terrain
  • Stay in locally operated teahouses along the route
  • Enjoy an optional visit to the natural hot springs near Jhinu Danda
  • Rest and explore in Pokhara after completing the trek What Makes This Trip Different? Living Culture of the Modi Khola Valley The trail passes through Gurung communities where locally operated lodges, farming traditions and everyday village life remain an important part of the trekking experience. A Walk into the Annapurna Sanctuary Rather than viewing the peaks from a distant ridge, this route follows the narrowing valley into a high glacial basin surrounded on all sides by the Annapurna massif.

Cost Includes

  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
  • Hotel accommodation in Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Meals specifically listed in the confirmed package
  • Ground transportation stated in the final itinerary
  • Annapurna Conservation Area permit and other trekking documentation listed in the package
  • Porter service when specifically included in the quotation
  • Guide and porter wages, meals, accommodation and insurance
  • First-aid kit carried by the trekking team
  • Government taxes and company service charges

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal entry visa and international flights
  • Travel and emergency-rescue insurance
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara unless specifically included
  • Optional Pokhara–Kathmandu flight and related transfers unless booked
  • Personal trekking equipment and sleeping bag
  • Hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi and drinking-water charges on the trail
  • Snacks, alcoholic drinks, bottled beverages and personal expenses
  • Optional Jhinu hot-spring entry and activities not listed in the package
  • Tips for guides, porters and drivers
  • Costs arising from delays, evacuation, route changes or circumstances beyond company control
  • Any service not specifically listed under What Is Included

Day-by-Day Route Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Elevation: Pokhara – approximately 822 m / 2,697 ft Driving time: Approximately 7–9 hours Accommodation & Food: Hotel Meals: According to the confirmed package Leave Kathmandu in the morning and travel west through river valleys, terraced hills and roadside settlements. Traffic, construction and weather can extend the journey, so the driving time remains approximate. After arriving in Pokhara, transfer to the hotel and meet the trekking guide for a route briefing and equipment check. Use the evening to organize your daypack, rest and prepare for the mountain trail.

Day 2: Drive from Pokhara and Trek to Ghandruk

Elevation: Ghandruk – approximately 1,940 m / 6,365 ft Driving time: Approximately 2–3 hours Walking time: Approximately 3–4 hours Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Drive from Pokhara toward the trailhead, with the exact drop-off point depending on current road conditions. Begin walking through cultivated hillsides and stone-built settlements as views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre begin to open. Reach Ghandruk, one of the best-known Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. Explore the village lanes if time permits and settle into a local lodge overlooking the surrounding hills and mountains.

Day 3: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong

Elevation: Chhomrong – approximately 2,170 m / 7,119 ft Walking time: Approximately 5–6 hours Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Descend from Ghandruk toward the river valley before climbing again through forest and scattered settlements. The repeated changes in elevation make this stage more demanding than the final altitude difference suggests. Arrive at Chhomrong, the principal gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. The village occupies a steep hillside with excellent views toward Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

Day 4: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya

Elevation: Himalaya – approximately 2,920 m / 9,580 ft Walking time: Approximately 5–6 hours Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Descend the long stone staircase to Chhomrong Khola, cross the bridge and climb toward Sinuwa. Beyond the settlement, the trail enters dense bamboo and rhododendron forest and follows the Modi Khola gorge through Bamboo and Dovan. Continue gradually upward to Himalaya for the night. Temperatures become cooler and lodge facilities simpler as the valley narrows and the route approaches the high sanctuary.

Day 5: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp

Maximum elevation: Annapurna Base Camp – approximately 4,130 m / 13,550 ft Walking time: Approximately 6–7 hours Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Climb past Hinku Cave and Deurali into more open alpine terrain. The guide will assess weather, snow and trail conditions before continuing through the upper valley toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp. After a rest near Machhapuchhre Base Camp, make the final gradual ascent into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Reach Annapurna Base Camp beneath the south face of Annapurna I and enjoy one of Nepal’s most dramatic close-range mountain panoramas.

Day 6: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo

Elevation: Bamboo – approximately 2,310 m / 7,579 ft Walking time: Approximately 6–7 hours Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Wake early for changing light across the sanctuary, subject to visibility. After breakfast, retrace the route past Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya and Dovan. The substantial descent reduces the altitude quickly but remains tiring on the knees and legs. Walk carefully on stone steps and damp forest sections before reaching Bamboo.

Day 7: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda

Elevation: Jhinu Danda – approximately 1,780 m / 5,840 ft Walking time: Approximately 5–7 hours Accommodation & Food: Teahouse Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Climb through forest to Sinuwa and return to Chhomrong Khola. A steep ascent leads back to Chhomrong, followed by a descent toward Jhinu Danda. If access, river conditions and daylight permit, you may walk to the natural hot springs near the Modi Khola. The visit is optional, involves additional walking and may require a separate local entry fee.

Day 8: Trek and Drive from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara

Elevation: Pokhara – approximately 822 m / 2,697 ft Walking time: Approximately 1–3 hours Driving time: Approximately 3–5 hours Accommodation & Food: Hotel Meals: Breakfast and lunch Walk to the available road-access point, which can change as local roads and bridges develop. Meet the vehicle and drive through the lower Modi Khola valley toward Pokhara. Check into the hotel and enjoy a hot shower and well-earned rest. Delays are possible during rain, roadworks or heavy traffic, so avoid arranging fixed evening commitments.

Day 9: Pokhara Exploration and Rest Day

Elevation: Approximately 822 m / 2,697 ft Activity time: Flexible Accommodation & Food: Hotel Meals: Breakfast Enjoy a recovery day in Pokhara after the trek. You may relax beside Phewa Lake or choose optional sightseeing such as the International Mountain Museum, World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls or nearby viewpoints. Optional activities, entrance fees and transportation are included only when stated in the confirmed package. The day also provides useful contingency time after the mountain journey.

Day 10: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Elevation: Kathmandu – approximately 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Driving time: Approximately 7–9 hours Flight time: Approximately 25 minutes, excluding airport procedures Accommodation & Food: Not included after arrival unless arranged Meals: Breakfast Return to Kathmandu by tourist or private vehicle. An optional domestic flight can be arranged at additional cost, subject to weather, operational conditions and seat availability. The trip concludes after arrival and transfer to the agreed drop-off point. Keep sufficient contingency time before an international departure because road and domestic-flight delays are possible. Important Itinerary Note Altitudes, walking times and driving times are approximate. The guide may adjust the departure time, pace, lodge or route because of weather, trail work, landslides, snow, health concerns or accommodation availability. Safety takes priority over completing the published schedule exactly. What Is Included ● Licensed English-speaking trekking guide ● Hotel accommodation in Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis ● Teahouse accommodation during the trek ● Meals specifically listed in the confirmed package ● Ground transportation stated in the final itinerary ● Annapurna Conservation Area permit and other trekking documentation listed in the package ● Porter service when specifically included in the quotation ● Guide and porter wages, meals, accommodation and insurance ● First-aid kit carried by the trekking team ● Government taxes and company service charges What Is Not Included ● Nepal entry visa and international flights ● Travel and emergency-rescue insurance ● Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara unless specifically included ● Optional Pokhara–Kathmandu flight and related transfers unless booked ● Personal trekking equipment and sleeping bag ● Hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi and

What Makes This Trip Different?

Living Culture of the Modi Khola Valley The trail passes through Gurung communities where locally operated lodges, farming traditions and everyday village life remain an important part of the trekking experience. A Walk into the Annapurna Sanctuary Rather than viewing the peaks from a distant ridge, this route follows the narrowing valley into a high glacial basin surrounded on all sides by the Annapurna massif.

Accommodation Details

Meals: According to the confirmed package Leave Kathmandu in the morning and travel west through river valleys, terraced hills and roadside settlements. Traffic, construction and weather can extend the journey, so the driving time remains approximate. After arriving in Pokhara, transfer to the hotel and meet the trekking guide for a route briefing and equipment check. Use the evening to organize your daypack, rest and prepare for the mountain trail. Day 2: Drive from Pokhara and Trek to Ghandruk Elevation: Ghandruk – approximately 1,940 m / 6,365 ft Driving time: Approximately 2–3 hours Walking time: Approximately 3–4 hours

Transportation Details

Road transport connects Kathmandu, Pokhara and the trekking trailhead. Vehicle type and the final walking start or finish point depend on group size and current road access. A Pokhara–Kathmandu flight may be arranged as an optional upgrade.

Connectivity and Trail Facilities

Electricity, charging and mobile coverage are available at some lodges but become less reliable higher on the route. Fees may apply. Carry a power bank and do not depend on continuous internet access. Toilets range from Western-style facilities to basic squat toilets, often shared. Hot water and showers are limited at higher elevations. Carry toilet paper, hand sanitizer and personal hygiene supplies. Travel Insurance and Emergency Support Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and should cover trekking to at least 4,500 metres, medical treatment, trip interruption and helicopter evacuation in Nepal. Carry the policy details and the insurer’s 24-hour emergency contact. The guide carries a first-aid kit and monitors the group, but mountain rescue depends on

Safety, Insurance and Emergency Information

personal baggage weight must be confirmed before packing. Difficulty and Fitness The trek is moderate to challenging. It involves consecutive walking days, long stone staircases, repeated climbs and descents and a rapid approach to 4,130 metres. Day 5 and the long descent on Day 6 require particularly steady pacing. Prepare with regular hill walking, stair climbing, cardiovascular exercise and leg-strength training. You should be comfortable walking for 5–7 hours with a daypack on uneven terrain. Altitude and Acclimatization Altitude illness can affect anyone. The itinerary rises from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp in one day, so walk slowly, drink regularly and report headache, nausea, dizziness, poor coordination, unusual fatigue or breathlessness immediately. The guide may stop the ascent, change the overnight location or arrange descent if symptoms or conditions require it. Never hide symptoms or continue against the guide’s safety advice. Best Seasons and Weather Spring, from March to May, offers flowering rhododendrons and generally comfortable trekking conditions. Autumn, from late September to November, usually brings clear visibility and stable

Permits and Entry Requirements

The route lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. The required conservation-area permit and any other trekking registration applicable at the time of travel will be arranged when included in the confirmed package. Carry the permit and identification as instructed and register at route checkpoints.

Meals and Drinking Water

Teahouses serve dal bhat, soups, noodles, rice, potatoes, eggs and simple international-style dishes. Menu choice and fresh ingredients become more limited at higher elevations. Dietary requirements should be shared before departure. Carry reusable bottles or a hydration system. Boiled, filtered or treated water is available according to the location; the guide will advise the safest practical option. Reduce single-use plastic wherever possible.

Best Season, Weather and Temperature

Machhapuchhre Base Camp. After a rest near Machhapuchhre Base Camp, make the final gradual ascent into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Reach Annapurna Base Camp beneath the south face of Annapurna I and enjoy one of Nepal’s most dramatic close-range mountain panoramas. Day 6: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo Elevation: Bamboo – approximately 2,310 m / 7,579 ft Walking time: Approximately 6–7 hours

Price on request
Duration:10 Days
Dates & discounts are applied in the next step.

Guides and Porters

A licensed guide manages navigation, daily pacing, accommodation, weather assessment and emergency decisions. Porter service is provided only when listed in the quotation. The permitted personal baggage weight must be confirmed before packing.

FAQs

Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek suitable for beginners?

A fit beginner can complete the trek with suitable preparation, a steady pace and realistic expectations. Previous multi-day hiking experience is helpful because of the stone staircases and consecutive walking days.

Do we visit Machhapuchhre Base Camp?

Yes. The standard approach passes Machhapuchhre Base Camp before continuing into the sanctuary to Annapurna Base Camp.

How high is Annapurna Base Camp?

The commonly used elevation is approximately 4,130 m / 13,550 ft.

Is altitude sickness possible?

Yes. Anyone can develop altitude symptoms. Report symptoms immediately and follow the guide’s decision about resting, changing the plan or descending.

Are the Jhinu hot springs guaranteed?

No. The visit is optional and depends on access, river conditions, available time and local operating status.

What accommodation is used?

The trek uses local teahouses with simple rooms and increasingly basic facilities at higher elevations. Pokhara uses hotel accommodation.

Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes. Private departures, extra acclimatization time, hotel upgrades and extensions in Pokhara or Kathmandu can be arranged before confirmation.

What insurance do I need?

Your policy should cover trekking to at least 4,500 metres, emergency medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption and the activities listed in your itinerary. Book Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek Walk into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary with an experienced local team and a carefully organized 10-day program. Contact Barunche Treks & Expeditions for current availability, a detailed quotation and a written confirmation of every service included in your trip.

Translate »