Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is one of the most famous treks in Nepal. It’s a fairly easy and shorter trek than other high-altitude treks in Nepal. This trek covers various landscapes, culture and wildlife. Along with the most spectacular and close-up view of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli and Dhaulagiri.

In the spring season, it showcases many beautiful flowers including the national flower of Nepal – Rhododendron. You will discover at times high cascading waterfalls. And, when you visit the Ghandruk museum, you’ll learn about people of different ethnicities, especially the Gurung people.

However, depending on the route you take, you may not be passing through Ghandruk. The trail is the same from Chhomrung onwards, but you can choose to include or not include Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk. Poon Hill is a viewpoint for the view of Annapurna and other peaks, and for sunrise and sunset. Other highlights of the trek are the hot springs! Very relaxing and healing to your aching muscles.

Also, Annapurna Base Camp passes through MBC (Machhapuchhre Base Camp). What a joyful moment. In one trip, visit two base camps!

How much does it cost to trek Annapurna Base Camp?

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp prices can range from USD 800 to USD 1100 for an average 7 to 12 days trek. Price includes all permits, both ways Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu transportation costs. It also includes accommodation, meals, guide and porters. And if you are traveling solo, it costs USD 150 extra.

How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp is a moderate grade trek to Nepal. The highest elevation of the trek is Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m). This trek to the base camp of the 10th highest mountain in the world is relatively easy. All levels of hikers who are fit and healthy to walk for 5 to 7 hours a day can easily do this trek.

What is the best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp?

The best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp trek is spring (February to May) and autumn (September to early-December) as the temperature is moderate with outstanding views in these seasons.

June to August is the monsoon season, so it’s rainy, but sometimes rains clear the sky. But if you want to avoid crowds and spend some time alone with nature, then taking this trip during the winter (December, January and February) could be a better option. In the winter, the temperature is very low to minus degrees, which might not be ideal for everyone.

However, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is possible and doable with the right preparation and equipment throughout the year.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permit Costs

You will need two permits to enter the Annapurna region. TIMS (Trekkers Information Management Systems) card and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project). The TIMS permit cost is USD 20 per person and the ACAP permits cost is USD 27 per person.

This permit is valid for a single entry only and you must carry it along the entire trail, and show it to the concerned person at every checkpoint, upon request. These permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary 

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

Accommodation: optional
Meals: no
Max. Altitude: 1400m
Time: rest day

Day 2: Drive to Nayapul (about 8 hrs.) and trek to Hille (1460 meters) 2 hours.

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 1460m
Time: 2 hours hiking

Day 3: Trek to Ghorepani.

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 2840m
Time: 5 hours

Day 3: Sunrise at Poon hill and trek to Tadapani / Chuli

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 1940m
Time: 7 hours

Day 4: Trek to Sinuwa

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 2360m
Time: 5 hours

Day 5: Trek to Deurali

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 3200m
Time: 5 – 6 hours

Day 7: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 4130m
Time: 5 hours

Day 8: Trek descend back to Sinuwa

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Max. Altitude: 2360m.
Time: 6 hours

Day 9: Trek down to Siwai and drive to Pokhara.

Accommodation: lodge
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Max. Altitude: 985m.
Time: 5 hours

Day 10: Drive to Kathmandu.

Accommodation: optional
Meals: dinner
Max. Altitude: 1400m
Time: rest 

Day 11: Free day / Fly to home.

General FAQs Annapurna Base Camp Trek

1. How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trek. So, if you don’t have any previous experience, any fit person can do this trek. You should be aware of what to expect and prepare yourself mentally for it. Then, as long as you dare, you can do that.

2. How long do we walk every day during the trek?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours a day. Sometimes your walking hour is only 3/4 hours. During pleasant and easy trails, you walk for 6/7 hours.

3. What is the highest elevation reached in this trek?

The highest elevation reached is 4130m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will walk in this trek.

Final Say

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a lifetime trip worth every penny. The cost of the trek depends upon the way you hike, the facilities you want and the luxury you desire.

Please feel free to contact us for further questions or queries. It is our pleasure to guide and assist you in planning the trek and make sure it is a successful and memorable one.