Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 11 days

Annapurna Base Camp Elevation and Distance

Annapurna Base Camp sits at an elevation of 4130 meters above sea level and offers a panorama of the Annapurna Range from every stride, making the ABC one of the remote expeditions in the land of the Himalayas- Nepal. To reach such a high elevation, you must start the journey and pass through several settlements in between, depending on the route that you undertake.

Due to the rapid changes in the altitude gain, you can feel the thin air at such heights; hence, proper acclimatisation days are required to avoid certain challenges that happen in mountain areas. That is why we've set this itinerary accordingly, so you can hike in a free mind without any mentally frustrating situations and leg-trembling conditions. 

The distance and length of the ABC Hike simply depends on the route that you undertake, as there are many routes to reach the legendary Annapurna Base Camp, whereas starting from Pokhara- Birethati with a drive, it covers approximately 97 km of hiking trail, bypassing many stopping points such as Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Upper Sinuwa, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Ghandruk, Deurali, Machhapuchare Base Camp (MBC), to finally reach ABC and descend back to Bamboo, Jhinu Danda, Ghandruk, retracing the same pathway in 11 days.

The journey till we reach here is only accessible through several sections, step by step, so you can finally immerse yourself in the breathtaking panorama of the Annapurna Range and unveil the unique insight of majestic peaks. To learn more in detail and prepare accordingly, you can explore our blog post, Annapurna Base Camp Trek elevation. 

Risk of Altitude Sickness and Preventive Guidelines

There's no doubt, when heading to the mountain areas, there is always a certain risk, circulating 24 hours, unlike city areas, the environment there is unusual, from what we experience with the basic, limited rescue amenities as well. The most crucial thing to highly consider during the trek is the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), as in every Himalayan adventure, it is quite expected, no matter whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker. Meanwhile, if you are panicking, whether you could get one, do not settle back, as this 11-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary is set with a gradual ascent without going over the board with 500 meters maximum elevation gain of the rising meters, ensuring the possibility of AMS remains low. 

However, apart from that, one must follow several preventive guidelines to minimise the risk or avoid the risk of altitude sickness. Here are 5 useful tips that we highly suggest from past experiences:

1. Make sure that you stay hydrated throughout the journey, with 4-5 litres of water per day. If that sounds too much, then follow the substitutional process, like having soupy items, fruits, or noodles, which avoids the dryness of the mouth.
2. While taking a higher ascent, do not rush yourself out, and take a slow uphill walk. Sometimes, what happens is that hikers get overexcited or nervous, speeding their climb. Walk slowly and breathe slowly, don't try to speed up your pace.
3.  Avoid consuming hard drinks, caffeine, or smoking cigarettes, as they can make you out of breath and also make the body dehydrated, leading to severe altitude sickness.
4. If you aren’t allergic to ginger items, then remember to carry dry ginger (available in every mart) and consume ginger soups in the evening. It helps to warm the body and energise the muscles.

What are the best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Hike?

Surprisingly, the ABC Trekking stands out as a year-round trek in Nepal; however, the peak seasons are Spring and Autumn as the temperature blends perfectly with the climate, making the trails insanely captivating with the unhindered views of mountains and landscapes from every side, with no disturbance from high rain/snowfall.

Meanwhile, you can even go for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp in winter and monsoon to experience some extreme trails. Winter seasons have lots of snow-covered tracks showcasing the snowy, frosty peaks with freezing temperatures, and on the other hand, monsoon months have muddy and slippery trails perfect for those who want to push their limits. While these seasons are not impossible, the real question is, are you up for a challenge? 

What to expect in Spring (March to May)?

Spring is one of the ideal seasons to undertake the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking, as expected, and there are several reasons attached to it. Firstly, as the temperature only ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius, it offers mild humidity to navigate through the sunny days for 5-6 days without feeling drained out and tired. Secondly, as this season falls right after winter, there is almost zero chance of rainfall, making the route safe to walk through without any fear of being slippery in the forested and steep ascent landscape area, providing the prominent vista of the Himalayan range at the same time. And hey, if you are a “ME TIME” kind of person, you’ll find spring just right, as there are relatively fewer crowds on the trail.

Last but not least, this span of the year provides you with a magic show from Mother Nature, with wildflowers and rhododendrons blooming brightly in red, white, and pink colours. The Annapurna trail is as beautiful as it can be, and unclouded skies give you an unobstructed view of the mountains. In April, the Nepali New Year celebrations add cultural richness to your journey as villages come alive with music and dance.

What to expect in Autumn (September to November)?

Autumn stands out as another best seasons to do this trip, as the weather keeps a stable climate without any rain or snow. The temperature is moderate (15- 25 degrees Celsius) with bright sunny days, so the mountains can be perfectly visible. Not only that, you can also immerse yourself in local cultures through festivals like Dashain,  Tihar,  and Lhosar, along with the harvesting of gold-like crops in local villages. 

Besides, as it falls at the peak span of the year for treks in Nepal, you get to mingle with many fellow trekkers and create some new memories, making truly other adventurous mates (friends) that even enrich the overall trekking experience to cherish forever.

What to expect in Winter (December to February)?

The ABC Trip in winter also tends to be the most popular span of the year, yet it is challenging, but not impossible. During snowfall, the path transformed into an icy surface that was completely buried under snow, making traversal challenging. The temperature experiences sub-freezing conditions at Base Camp as night falls, resulting in potential health problems.

However, white icy trails provide a magical, fairytale experience with very low crowds on the route, allowing you to enjoy the snowfall and build a snowman along the pathway. If you are someone who loves to walk along the snowy trails with the best views of the mountains, then you will surely not regret starting this adventure during winter times.

What to expect in Monsoon (June to August)?

Annapurna Trip during the monsoon season is the least preferred time due to slippery trail conditions resulting from rain. Sometimes, the trails may be blocked due to landslides, while leeches add to the challenge. But if you look at the bright side, the trails are mostly empty, and a lush green landscape becomes a pleasure to the eyes.
 
No matter what season you are looking forward to, trail along matching the holiday timeframe, spring to autumn and winter, and monsoon, we at Destination Himalaya Treks assure successful completion through careful preparation and planning.

What sets Annapurna Base Camp and Circuit apart?

While it might sound as if the ABC Trek and Circuit are the same, the differences are far beyond and different from each other in terms of several ways. Firstly, the difficulty level itself is a big question mark, as ABC Trek passes through the well-maintained tea houses and crowded sections, the Annapurna Circuit Trek navigates through the rugged and least lodging facilities, and circumnavigates the whole Annapurna Trail, touching the 2 districts of Mustang and Manang at the same time.

While the Annapurna Base Camp reaches a maximum altitude of 4130 meters, the Annapurna Circuit takes you at 5416 meters, of Thorong La Pass and ABC at the lap of the world's eighth highest mountain. In comparison, the circuit tends to be far challenging and also contributes 90% of the success rate if asked honestly, due to the high elevation and challenging terrains, whereas ABC Trek is a beginner-friendly trek, and safe at the same time, making it the most preferred expedition in Nepal.

To know the comparison, what makes them completely distinct from each other? Continue reading our blog: Annapurna Base Camp vs Annapurna Circuit.

Accommodation 

The Annapurna Base Camp route is a popular trailhead for trekkers, as hundreds of visitors pass by the track each day. There are many tea houses and lodges available, so you don’t need to worry about lodging.

The lodging in this area is simple and includes sharing or attached bathroom, comfortable mattresses, cushions, and pillows, but extra charges are added regarding Hot water buckets, wifi, laundry, and charging. Although the tea houses are not so fancy as all are operated by the locals here, you'll get a comfortable stay. In lower areas, single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the trekking regions, but finding them becomes difficult at higher altitudes as lodges are limited during the Annapurna Base Camp route.

Your comfort and stay throughout the trip is guaranteed by the organisation, whereas you don’t need to worry about pre-booking and safety at lodges. We'll accommodate you in the best lodges in the region and try to manage a single room for every stay. But, do not expect this in the higher regions as there are only a few lodges available.

To know more details, take a look at the Accommodation in the ABC Trek that you would be provided during the trek to Annapurna Sanctuary.

Foods and Drinks 

Our Annapurna Base Camp Trekking package covers 3 standard meals throughout the expedition, with a cup of tea or coffee. Along the trailhead, you can find a wide range of foods from traditional foods to international cuisines like Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan that cater to the taste of every visitor.

On the breakfast menu, a wide range of food options are available like Tibetan bread served with veg curry and boiled eggs, Roti (Indian Chapati), Fresh toast with butter, jam, and omelets, Oatmeal items, and hot porridge. On top of that, here you’ll also get hot chocolate, espresso, and an Americano, which just gives a perfect kick to heat up the body before starting the hike.  

For Lunch and Dinner, you get a variety of traditional Nepalese cuisines and Tibetan local cuisines like Thukpa (made of noodles and vegetables), non-veg momo, or Spanish Momo, that you surely don’t want to miss out! Other options like Ramen, Spaghetti, Fried rice, non-veg and veg curry, dry meats, Thenduk, momo, Pizza, Burgers, and Spaghetti are served. Sounds appetizing, right?

While having dinner, take advantage of the dining area seating. Here you can enjoy the heater made out of clay (a traditional heater of the Himalayas), providing warmth to such cold altitudes. So, make the best out of this. 

We recommend you have dal bhat before the trek, as it is a nutritious food that allows you to continue the trek with a happy tummy.

Can I do the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking as a beginner?

Soaring at the highest elevation of 4163 meters, the overall ABC Trek demands almost 5 to 6 hours of daily hiking with a coverage of 9 to 12 kilometers per day, so there is no doubt that this trip falls into moderately challenging treks in Nepal. That is why beginners who are willing to opt for this journey should engage in physical training and follow some preventive guidelines to avoid unfortunate conditions that might arise along the way without enough preparation. Even though this trek does ascend to such high terrains, with a complex, confusing route, walking with the assistance of a guide, this trek is safe and free from any danger to undertake, and can be easily doable by beginners as well. 

Just on June 3rd, 2025, the marathon in the Annapurna Base Camp Trail was hosted, where many individuals across the globe participated, even the beginners, who looked forward to pushing the limits, and mark new heights and introduce themselves in the world of the Himalayas. Thus, it clears the doubt, and the questionnaire, whether the trail can be ventured out by beginners or not. On top of that, the trail is well-maintained and easy enough to pass through, even though there are several steep uphill walks from Ulleri and downhill descents to Sinuwa. With some training, one can smoothly complete the expedition, but with a positive, enthusiastic mindset and a slow yet effective approach to the trek. 

If you are a beginner and willing to conquer the height of 4130 meters with ease, then take a brief overview of our new blog: Beginner's Guide to Annapurna Base Camp, which provides thoughtful tips to tackle challenges, especially for newbies to the mountains.

Guides and Porters 

Even though ABC Trekking can be done without a guide, legally, as there are no such restrictions, about solo trekking not being allowed at the trailhead, we highly suggest you hike with an experienced registered guide. If you are wondering why, then these two reasons make your navigation with a Guide a must-do adventure. Firstly, having such an experienced partner, who will assist you throughout the journey, ensures that you are hiking via the safest route, covering every highlighted aspect of the Annapurna region. Secondly, they are medically trained as well, which means they follow emergency protocols intelligently and take immediate action if any unfortunate situations arise en route. 

Our Annapurna Base Camp Trekking package covers an experienced licensed English-speaking guide, and all his expenses throughout the journey; hence, there is no additional cost required to hire guides, excluding the tipping factor, which is expected as a respect to their hardships. They are highly experienced with more than 10+ years and locals, being medically equipped as well, hence your safety and comfort are highly taken care of. Meanwhile, if you want a porter, then you can hire one by adding a cost of USD 20 to USD 25 per day; one porter can be shared between 2 hikers, where 22 kgs of backpack can be carried by him, which means 1 porter can be shared between 2 hikers.

Transportation Facilities 

For the transportation facilities, you will be provided with all the in and out services soon after you land here in Nepal. Even though this trip doesn't include your arrival date, it's your own choice, when you want to arrive here and explore the Kathmandu valley beforehand, you will be received at the airport via private vehicle, and dropped off at the hotel directly and same remains during your date to returning to home, where you will trasnfered to the hotel with the assistance of the airport representative. This airport pick-up and drop-off is not included in the cost; hence, we provide it as a complimentary service for your ease and comfort.

Meanwhile, to reach Pokhara for the ABC Trekking, a comfortable sofa-seated tourist bus with AC will be provided, from Kathmandu - Pokhara, whereas, from Pokhara (PKR), to reach Ulleri, a private jeep is used, rewarding hikers with a 2-hour scenic view. The modes of transportation remain the same to return via private jeep from Siwai to Pokhara and a comfy sofa tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Note: You can upgrade transportation to flight mode of transportation as well, at an additional cost of USD 100 to USD 130 per head. We can arrange the air transportation happily, or any other private mode of transit, as per your request.

How to be prepared for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp?

Even though this trek is not so strenous to navigate, it is always best to prepare yourself fully just to make the trip go smoother. Especially if you are a beginner, you must take some considerations beforehand so that while making your way 5-6 hours to the next destination stop, you don't feel any kind of challenges during the Annapurna Base Camp Hike.

There are 2 major factors to keep in mind while prepping: Physical, Mental, and Medical Considerations.

Physical Fitness

First things first, you have to have proper physical fitness since the journey is long and there are some physically challenging sections on the trail. Start training your body 2-3 months before the trip. Cardio is king. Your cardio needs daily sessions of 30-40 minutes at least four times weekly through swimming, hiking, running, and walking, which provides additional health benefits. Your legs, back, and core require major support, so they need dedicated strength training. You should begin hiking while carrying a backpack on weekend days, starting from short distances to longer distances.

Positive Mindset

While we always tend to give 100% to strengthen our bodies and be fully geared up, we often tend to overlook the mindset aspect. YES! It is your mind that keeps you going when your body tries to give up. Use positive thinking and remind yourself why you chose this expedition during times of diminished motivation. Meditation and yoga help to keep your mind focused so you can enjoy the beauty of the journey, not the difficulties. Make your mindset filled with positivity and have that extra glow of enthusiasm. Do some research beforehand, so on the trail you don't feel any sort of confusing shock, which becomes completely different from expectations.

Medical Consideration

Even though the route doesn't pass by the remote terrains like any other isolated treks in Nepal, it is always better to go through medical procedures and do a whole body check-up just to know how your body is currently working. It is highly recommended to do a checkup regarding health conditions 1 week before and carry the medication accordingly. As the emergency access to a serious health line is just a helicopter evacuation, to avoid such situations, make sure to follow take preventive guidelines accordingly. Also, to know more in-depth, check our recent blog entitled: How to prepare for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?, which has a comprehensive guideline from starting to be fully prepared for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

Essential Packing List for ABC Trek

To make your trip a complete success, packing gear and essentials play a crucial role, which can either make or break your expedition, so make sure that proper planning is made regarding what to carry, include, and what to exclude and ignore, and make sure to pack smartly for the ABC Trekking, as it helps you to tackle challenges and at the same time, saves personal spending as well. Here are some of the recommendations that we highly suggest include in your packing checklist:

Clothing: What to wear?

• Dry Fit T-shirts: at least 2 to 3 that are quick to dry and soak the sweat easily
• Breathable hiking pants or shorts
• Down Jacket or Puffer Jacket: whatever is suitable for you
• Full Sleeves T-shirts: to protect from the sun's heat 
• Inner Thermal Wear: warm enough to wear at the tea house, and for a high-altitude hike
• Wind cheater: useful during sunny days and even low precipitation
• Light gloves and woolen gloves

Footwear: Hike with ease

• Flip flops or sandals to wear at the tea house
• Short cotton socks and Long woolen socks - if possible, bring 6-7 pairs
• Hiking boots - have a nice grip and don't slip
• Comfortable sports shoes - useful as an alternative

Gears and Hiking Backpack

• Bagpack: 25 L to 35 Liters
• Waist bag: to quickly fit in and use the gadgets and keep essential items like cash, passports so on.
• Extra Batteries and Power Bank - due to limited amenities available at the trailhead.
• Personal First Aid Kit - basic medicines with doctor's precautions
• Crampons and sleeping bags - if it's winter, it's essential
• Toiletary items and basic hygienic products
• Trekking poles (2) and a water bottle

Please take note that, these are the essential packing recommendations, that we usually highly suggest, however, it highly depends on the personal choices, meanwhile, if you want a proper fuidance and more information then; check our blog: What to Pack for Annapurna Base Camp Trek that gives in depth detailes, about packing gears on basis of seasons, experiences and so on.

A Typical Day in Annapurna Base Camp Route (What every day looks like along the trail)

Every day on the Trek to Annapurna Base Camp can be a little different from yesterday's due to weather conditions, changes in landscapes, and your overall mood and physical fitness. All breakfast meals are served at 7 am in the teahouses or lodges where you spend the night. The breakfast options will typically include porridge, along with eggs, bread, and tea or coffee.

Once you hand your bags to the porter, he quickly goes ahead before the rest of your group follows. During our trail hike, we stop at a teashop to eat noodles or Dal Bhat as our main lunch meal. It is essential to eat proper meals and stay hydrated for well-being throughout the ABC Trekking route.

The trek duration spans between 5 to 7 hours daily. The trek requires a decent fitness level to make walking more comfortable, but it can be done by everyone with patience. The guide will point out important sights and give you cultural insights while you enjoy the surroundings. Please inform your guide if you experience any health problems so he can assist you. Most important of all, take time to admire the breathtaking mountain peaks that tower above you. 

We will reach our lodge to enjoy hot or cold drinks before proceeding to dinner. Bedtime is early, and we suggest limiting your alcohol consumption throughout the Annapurna Base Camp Route. Also, before taking a nap, do not miss out on playing UNO, playing Nepalese instruments such as the Madal and Flute (Basunri), and singing songs while mingling with locals and fellow hikers.

Drinking Water Facilities 

Throughout this 11-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Drinking water is easily available at every teahouse where you can simply buy a mineral water bottle but make sure to do proper disposal of plastic bottles and can also fill boiled water at teahouses paying extra charges. Always carry a water bottle and water purification medicine to prevent unwanted health issues.

During this trek, drink direct freshwater from the flowing stream using a water purification treatment that provides a refreshing natural treatment for your journey.

Wifi, network, and communication facilities 

The internet facility is easily available in the vicinity of the Annapurna region. The internet is fairly stable in the lower regions. While moving to higher altitudes, a SIM Card network connection may not work at all. But, there's nothing to worry about! Every tea house has a telephone and Wi-Fi facilities, where you can pay $2-$3 to connect to the wifi. 

Electric sockets may not be available in every room in the upper regions. In the dining area, you can find multiple plugs to charge your phone by paying a fair price. For that, make sure to carry one or two power banks that can be of great use in case of an emergency. 

Permits required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Permits are like the entry tickets to the show of Mother Nature, so we must acquire the necessary permits before starting trekking in Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal. Permits are a way to protect and promote the Annapurna Conservation Area while ensuring our safety. So, here are the two important permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek that you must obtain from the authorised local trekking agency. Don't worry! We initiate permit applications immediately after your booking confirmation with our company.

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (approximately $27) for foreigners. NPR 1000 (approximately $9) for SAARC countries.
• Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: NPR 2,000 (approximately $18) for foreigners. For SAARC nationals, NPR 300

Booking procedure

Do not wait longer for the epic adventure of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek 11 days, and book a spot now! To make things easy, we provide everything you need for the trip, including food, lodging, transportation, permits, and expert guides (all of their permits, food, insurance, and so on).

You can email us at info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com for the booking confirmation, or you can phone or message us on WhatsApp at +977 9851016814 with any questions. For the payment, you can directly pay through our website or simply bank transfer the advance payment. To manage everything, we just deduct 10% of the entire fee; the remaining sum may be paid after you get to Kathmandu. 

Last-minute booking

Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition helps us to book your last-minute trek to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal during peak season with ease. You must pay 100% to confirm the last-minute booking since we need to pay for a guide along with porters, and accommodation in advance to ensure your trip. You can get more information through our WhatsApp or Viber at (+977 9851016814) and also email directly to us at info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com.

Tips for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek (Network, ATM, Packing Recommendation, Safety, Electric Sockets)

• Make sure to withdraw sufficient Nepali rupees from banks in Kathmandu or Pokhara ahead of your trek because ATMs are not available during the trek. The teahouses accept Nepalese cash only.
• Get a local SIM card from Ncell or NTC in Kathmandu or Pokhara to use during emergencies, as these providers supply sufficient network coverage throughout the trek. You can connect with your friends and family, although the coverage may be limited in high altitudes.
• Make sure to keep drinking water throughout your trek to prevent dehydration. You can bring a reusable water bottle with a 2-3 liter capacity and refill it in teahouses and use filtration tablets to ensure the water is safe to drink.
• You will need a portable high-capacity power bank or charger when planning to use your phone or camera. Remote areas often lack reliable charging facilities at teahouses, despite some locations providing power sources.
• Even though there are several tea houses along the trail, the prices are very expensive. Buy quick snacks to grab in between the trek such as granola bars, protein chocolates, and instant noodles for a quick snack in between.
• Carry only the necessary trekking equipment to keep your backpack lightweight. A fully necessary trekking kit should include layered clothes, proper boots, a sleeping bag, and essential products such as sunscreen, lip balm, moisturisers, and required medications. 
• Make sure to carry an oximeter and check your pulse rate through the oximeter (given by us). If it goes lower than it should, then inform the guide immediately.