Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
15 Days Starting in Kathmandu and ending in Pokhara
Visiting: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nayapul - Ulleri (2080m / 6824ft), Ghorepani (2860m / 9383ft), Tadapani (2630m / 8858ft), Kimrung Khola - Chomrong (2177m / 7143ft), Kuldi Ghar - Doban (2670m / 8760ft), Doban - Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m / 12139ft ), Annapurna Base Camp (4130m / 13549ft), Bamboo (2335m / 7660ft), Jhinu Danda (1780m / 5839ft), Landruk - Tolkha - Pothana (1890m / 6201ft), Phedi - Pokhara
Tour operator:
Tour code:
HNXS
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99 years
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
From ancient kingdoms to majestic mountain vistas, trek through the breathtaking Himalayan landscape of the Annapurna Ranges. Pass awe-inspiring glaciers, stay on the banks of pristine rivers, cross mountain pastures, dip into natural hot springs and encounter mule trains carrying supplies to remote villages. Rest and revive in cosy mountain teahouses and meet friendly locals along the way. Time spent in Kathmandu and Pokhara completes the adventure with insights into Nepali culture and tradition. ALTERNATE ITINERARY: Due to the nature of outdoor travel, please be aware that this trip will operate on an amended itinerary in high risk weather conditions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu
Location: Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel
Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. You can arrive at any time on day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 2 pm. Kathmandu is an incredible mixture of legend and modern development with a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Narrow lanes lead to small squares and courtyards where ornate carved balconies overlook shrines and temples. Buzzing markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life where stalls and small hole-in-the-wall shops sell everything from bangles to Buddhas to beetroot. Kathmandu has been a travellers' centre for many years, reflected in the international flavour of the bright lights and 'Coca Cola culture' of the central Thamel district. If you arrive early, why not take time to climb to the Swayambhunath Temple. Situated on a hilltop, the instantly recognisable stupa with its Buddha eyes attracts a steady stream of pilgrims and the views out over the valley are superb. Alternatively, check out Durbar Square, home to the palace of the Kumari Devi, considered to be a living goddess.
Optional Activities:
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Day 2: Pokhara
Location: Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotel
Leaving Kathmandu behind early this morning, journey to the enchanting Nepalese town of Pokhara by private vehicle (approximately 7 hours). Pokhara enjoys a delightful setting on a lake beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range, making it an excellent place to relax and contemplate what lies ahead. Pokhara is part of a once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet. This is the land of Magars and Gurungs – hardworking farmers and valorous warriors who have earned world-wide fame as Gurkha soldiers. The Thakalis, another important ethnic group here, are known for their entrepreneurship. This afternoon you’ll have your trek briefing and preparation, but depending on your arrival time, there may be time to hire a small boat for a quick paddle on the lake. There are also plenty of cafes where you can put your feet up and enjoy international cuisine, while the main street is full of shops and stalls selling a wide range of Nepali and Tibetan souvenirs. If you need to hire some extra trekking gear, then there are numerous shops available offering everything you could possibly need.
Day 3: Nayapul - Ulleri (2080M / 6824Ft)
Location: Nayapul - Ulleri (2080m / 6824ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
At 8091 metres, Annapurna 1 is one of the highest mountains in the world. Its surrounding sister mountains are equally imposing and create magnificent panoramas from any viewpoint. This trek covers a wide variety of terrain, from lowland pastures and peaceful villages to powerful glaciers and stunning mountain views. In the rugged mountain scenery, you stay in mountain communities and meet friendly Nepali hill people as they go about their daily lives. The expedition is not only visually superb but also a chance to learn about local cultures. Along the way, see thundering waterfalls of melted snow, cross icy rivers and reward yourself with a soak in natural hot springs. An hour-long drive (remember driving times are always approximate in Asia – patience is your closest friend!) brings you to Nayapul where you commence your trek. Gear up and follow the Bhurungi Khola to Thikhedhunga, trek through farmland before a steep ascent to reach Ulleri.
Day 4: Ghorepani (2860M / 9383Ft)
Location: Ghorepani (2860m / 9383ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Ascend to Ulleri Village through a pleasant rhododendron forest, much more impressive than the trees your grandmother has in the garden! Stay overnight at Ghorepani.
Day 5: Tadapani (2630M / 8858Ft)
Location: Tadapani (2630m / 8858ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Early birds can bounce out of bed to witness the sunrise over Annapurna from nearby Poon Hill (1-hour uphill climb) – you have to do this at least once in your life, right? Then the adventure continues as you continue your trek on to Tadapani.
Day 6: Kimrung Khola - Chomrong (2177M / 7143Ft)
Location: Kimrung Khola - Chomrong (2177m / 7143ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
This morning you’ll descend to Kimrung Khola before climbing again to Chomrong village, at the base of Hiunchuli (6441 metres). There are breathtaking views of Annapurna and Macchhapucchhre from here, plus delicious pizza!
Day 7: Kuldi Ghar - Doban (2670M / 8760Ft)
Location: Kuldi Ghar - Doban (2670m / 8760ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Begin by trekking for approximately 3 hours through the forest to Kuldi Ghar, then down to the banks of the Modi River and up again to Doban.
Day 8: Doban - Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700M / 12139Ft )
Location: Doban - Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m / 12139ft )
Accommodation: Teahouse
Passing through Himalaya Hotel, continue up the narrow valley to Deurali. Sticking to the west bank of the Modi River, enter an open valley near Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Day 9: Annapurna Base Camp (4130M / 13549Ft)
Location: Annapurna Base Camp (4130m / 13549ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Ascend further from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp, the highest point of your trek. You can decide how your legs and your lungs are holding up. You may remain at Machhapuchhre Base Camp or stay at Annapurna Base Camp for the night. The views from both base camps are fantastic – all the hard work to get here is worth it!
Day 10: Bamboo (2335M / 7660Ft)
Location: Bamboo (2335m / 7660ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Wake up early for the beautiful sunrise view in Base Camp! You're close enough now to (almost!) reach out and touch the peaks of Annapurna 1, Macchapucchhre, Annapurna South, Tent Peak, Gangapurna, Himchuli and Annapurna 3. After watching a sunrise on these snowy peaks, head back down the valley the same way to Bamboo (or further if the knees can handle it). It’s a long day but you have plenty of time to get there.
Day 11: Jhinu Danda (1780M / 5839Ft)
Location: Jhinu Danda (1780m / 5839ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Passing back through the up and down staircases of Chhomrong, continue the decent to Jhinu Danda. From here it's a 20-minute walk down to a hot spring by the Modi Khola for a well-deserved rest.
Day 12: Landruk - Tolkha - Pothana (1890M / 6201Ft)
Location: Landruk - Tolkha - Pothana (1890m / 6201ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
By now you’ll have thighs of steel and will be pretty good at carrying your pack! Trek down to cross the river and continue the ascent to Landruk, Tolkha, Deurali and Pothana.
Day 13: Phedi - Pokhara
Location: Phedi - Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotel
This is the final day of the trek and it is a short downhill stretch all the way from Pothana to Phedi (approximately 1.5 hours) via Dhampus village – you made it! After lunch it's only about a 45 minute drive to Pokhara to check into your hotel for a well-earned shower and an end-of-trek celebration to enjoy the good things in life – like cold beer or cocktail!
Day 14: Pokhara
Location: Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotel
Enjoy a free day in Pokhara to unwind, relax, and give those muscles a rest after all that trekking. Your leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities. It is worth taking a boat for a row out on the lake, especially if the weather's fine. The lakeside area has great shopping opportunities and internet cafes. Pokhara has an interesting old area as well as an elaborate Hindu temple and a Buddhist monastery. Perhaps visit the Peace Pagoda, where spectacular views of the mountains await. You can see the Annapurnas from here, and the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and back across to Pokhara. You will also visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum to learn some amazing tales of past climbing expeditions.
Day 15: Pokhara
Location: Pokhara
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time. Pokhara is a stunning and peaceful lakeside haven, so if you would like to spend more time here, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
What's Included
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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International Travel
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Included Activities
Transport
- LUGGAGE LIMITS:
- Domestic flights in Nepal have strict weight limits - 10kg of check-in luggage and 5kg of carry-on hand luggage per person is included with your flight ticket. Excess baggage (up to 5kg per person only) will be charged at your own expense.
- TRAVEL BETWEEN KATHMANDU & POKHARA:
- On itineraries that include road travel between these destinations, past travellers have often decided to fly this route independently to avoid the long overland journey (200km, approx 6+ hours). The flight takes around 35mins. Should you decide to fly, this will be at your own expense with no refunds for road travel available.
- ROAD TRAVEL:
- Roadworks and infrastructure projects can cause significant delays on major roads within cities and highways between destinations. Road travel can also be disrupted due to demonstrations and bandhs (strikes) without warning. Major roadworks are currently ongoing in and around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park. Delays, heavy traffic, poor road conditions and dust are a reality of road travel in Nepal.
- MONSOON:
- The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice.
Accommodation
- TEAHOUSES:
- Accommodation at local lodges - better known as teahouses - are simple but comfortable. Toilets and washing facilities are shared and rudimentary, and the food is plain and filling. In a teahouse, travellers are provided with small twin share rooms with twin beds, mattresses and pillows. At times, in high seasons, and in places where there are limited number of teahouses, travellers may have to make do with dormitories. In some places, teahouses don't have access to electricity, depending on solar powered lighting instead. In more remote regions, teahouses don't have running water and toilets can mean just a hole in the ground. Hot shower facilities are available in some teahouses for a price but occasionally a hot shower means a bucket of hot water, enough to wash your body. Electricity to charge devices as well as WiFi is usually for an additional fee when available.
Important Information
- 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement will only be included on Days 1, 2,13,14 (Hotel) and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- 2. You will need to provide 2 passport size photographs for your trekking permit.
- 3. Due to the demands of travelling at high altitudes a Passenger Self Assessment Form is required for this trip. See here to inform yourself about altitude sickness: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/altitude-sickness
- 4. This trip ends in Pokhara. Intrepid offers a pre-arranged transfer and flight service option back to Kathmandu airport. Enquire with your agent at least 30 days prior to your trip departure.
- 5. Please be aware that in the event of an emergency evacuation, Intrepid does not have control over which helicopter service may be used. Some helicopters are not in regular use with Intrepid and have not passed our internal safety auditing.
- 6. As this trip ends in Pokhara, if you wish to transfer your stored luggage from Kathmandu to Pokhara we can arrange a private vehicle. Additional cost is 100 USD. This cost is divided among the interested participants.
Mode of Transport
- LUGGAGE LIMITS:
- Domestic flights in Nepal have strict weight limits - 10kg of check-in luggage and 5kg of carry-on hand luggage per person is included with your flight ticket. Excess baggage (up to 5kg per person only) will be charged at your own expense.
- TRAVEL BETWEEN KATHMANDU & POKHARA:
- On itineraries that include road travel between these destinations, past travellers have often decided to fly this route independently to avoid the long overland journey (200km, approx 6+ hours). The flight takes around 35mins. Should you decide to fly, this will be at your own expense with no refunds for road travel available.
- ROAD TRAVEL:
- Roadworks and infrastructure projects can cause significant delays on major roads within cities and highways between destinations. Road travel can also be disrupted due to demonstrations and bandhs (strikes) without warning. Major roadworks are currently ongoing in and around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park. Delays, heavy traffic, poor road conditions and dust are a reality of road travel in Nepal.
- MONSOON:
- The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice.
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
There are 10 days of strenuous trekking on this trip. You’ll be trekking up to 8 hours a day and at altitudes over 4000 metres at times, so you need to be aware of altitude sickness. Visit intrepidtravel.com/altitude-sickness for more information.
It’s very important it is to be in excellent fitness and health, which means training in the lead up to your trip in order to be best prepared.
The trekking lodges, known as teahouses, that you stay in on the trek are very simple with only basic facilities. Hot water may not always be available and may cost extra, as will access to electricity points for charging devices. Wifi is available at some locations, but connections may be poor.
What you need to take will vary depending on the season you are trekking in and it’s important to be prepared. See some tips for what to pack here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/packing-guide-for-trekking-in-nepal
The Annapurna trek is a popular route and you will encounter many other trekkers and groups on your trip during your hike and at the teahouses. If you are after a trek that sees less travellers and spends more time trekking through communities rather than on a more established route, see our Tamang Heritage & Langtang Valley Trek (HNXV).
Due to the nature of outdoor travel, please be aware that this trip will operate on an amended itinerary in high risk weather conditions. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions