trek to annapurna base camp
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Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 8 Days

314 reviews in TripAdvisor
27 reviews in Google Reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration8 Days
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude4130 meters
ActivitiesTrekking
Group SizeAny
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

If you're into Himalayan adventures or passionate about mountains, you'll know Annapurna I (8,091m), the world's 10th-highest peak and famously the deadliest 8,000er. Planning a smooth trek for 2026–2027 that even first-timers can handle? The iconic Annapurna Sanctuary is your perfect destination.

This 8-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek reaches Poon Hill's station and the thrilling base camp of the Annapurna Mountain, followed by cultural villages. The journey begins and ends in Pokhara, perfect for those who are already here and looking for a quick himalayan escape. This gentle to moderate pace journey (with expert local guides) suits all ages and beginners perfectly.

Explore ABC and Poon Hill – Nepal's Two Most Iconic Himalayan Viewpoints

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek stands out as a classic tea house alpine trek that fuses diverse landscapes, mountains, cultural exploration, and a wander around the pristine flora and fauna. The trailhead passes through the verdant forests of rhododendrons, pines, and bamboo, where the great gignatic peaks, including Macchapuchare (Mt. Fishtail), Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli becomes your upfront view, throughout. The route navigates through several notable traditional villages, which give you a full opportunity to witness the mountain livelihood, warm hospitality, and rich cultures of Magar, Gurung, and Sherpa communities.

This 8-Day ABC Trek via Poon Hill starts and ends in Pokhara, perfect if you've already arrived in Nepal's stunning lakeside city and spent a few days exploring. Most trekkers choose this itinerary as their clear, convenient starting point after enjoying Pokhara's vibe. However, if you are still in Kathmandu, then our 13-Day ABC and Poon Hill Trek includes full arrival/departure transfers, Kathmandu logistics, and complete end-to-end arrangements to match your travel schedule perfectly. Or, you can check our add-ons, section scrolling below the page, and add the services, for the vehicles, and accommodations as your preference and estimated budget.

From Pokhara, we'll begin our adventure with a short 2-hour drive to Birenthanti, and start our walking trail towards Ulleri on the first day, entering the Annapurna Conservation Area. Then, on the next day, we'll make our way to Ghorepani, whereas on the third day, we'll take an early morning hike to Poon Hill viewpoint (3210 meters), with the sunrise panorama of 19 notable himalayan peaks and take a descent to Tadapani. Followed by two consecutive days, the route proceeds further to Chhomrong, Sinuwa, and Deurali.

Finally, on the 6th day, we'll move to our ultimate goal destination, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) at 4130 meters via Macchapuchare Base Camp, which demonstrates an impeccable view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. The main highlight of this Annapurna Base Camp Trek 8-day Itinerary is that we've included one overnight stay near the foothill, ABC, so that you can end the trip, gazing at the dazzling stars, night peak insights, gaining another unique perspective, and the thrill of the sanctuary.

Throughout the trip, our experienced local guide, medically trained, licensed, and fully equipped, provides safety briefings plus engaging insights into the Annapurna region's history, culture, and mountains for a fun, secure journey. Bookings are now open for 2026 and 2027, with great pricing deals. With us at Destination Himalaya Treks, your mountain journey promises to be hassle-free and a smooth trail, so do not wait any longer, and be ready to leave your mark on one of the iconic trekking trails in Nepal.

Major Highlights of the Trip

  • Visit the remote Gurung and Magar's village, in the heart of the Annapurna region, gaining cultural and mountain lifestyle insights.
  • Reach Annapurna Base Camp, perched at an elevation of 4130 meters, the foothill of the world's 10th-highest peak.
  • Cover two popular legendary himalayan route, and vantage points, a distinct perspective of the mountains, terrains, and landscapes.
  • Breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the himalayan giants such as Machapuchare, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna range.
  • Morning Sunrise vista of the gigantic peaks, from the Poon Hill viewpoint, 3210 meters.
  • Trail along the blooming rhododendron, oak forests, small river streams, cascalding water falls, entering the lush green forest area.

What Makes Our 8-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill Unique?

The expertly customised 8-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek is completely different, special, than any other regular package, which focuses mainly on deep exploration of the route. Rather than just reaching the base camp, which is the major attraction of this odyssey, it also takes you to the top of the Poon Hill viewpoint, which is the best Annapurna viewpoint. In fact, many trekkers across the globe visit Nepal just to explore the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trail, which just adds a cherry on top to the itinerary, making it captivating and distinct from the standard packages. Besides, here are some of the major attractions that you get to experience during this 8-day ABC Trekking in 2026:

Poon Hill Sunrise (3210 m)

One of the most popular destinations within the Annapurna region, the Poon Hill viewpoint, that perched at an elevation of 3210 meters, stands out as an impeccable spot to witness the panoramic sunrise view. The uphill walk to the hill station is easy and smooth, without any technical or rough sections included, making it doable by everyone, and a trekker's favourite, which is included on this itinerary as a side trip. Just with a 45-minute morning walk to the vantage point, you'll be rewarded with the breathtaking insights of the Ghorepani village, Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail (Macchapuchare), Mardi, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and many more.

Diverse Culture and Mountain Lifestyle Experience

Apart from just attaining a certain height or a particular destination, this trip takes you through different remote settlements, such as Tadapani, Ghorepani, Chhomrong, Deurali, and Ulleri. Unlike the famous Everest Base Camp, for instance, the Annapurna Base Camp route is still focused on preserving the remote villages, where the distinct communities of Gurung and Magar thrive, in their traditional roots, cultures, and lifestyles. As you will be accommodated at their local tea houses, throughout, it offers an opportunity to know about how they sustain their livelihood in the himalayas, get deeper insights into their heritage and beliefs, and savour in local cuisines, which gives you a pure nostalgic and serene, far from modern chaotic life.

Annapurna Base Camp: Overnight at the Sanctuary's Heart

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is itself a once-in-a-lifetime moment, as it is the foothill of the world's tenth-tallest peak, Mt. Annapurna I (8091 m), with the surrounding alpine meadows, glaciers and great himalayan giants. Reaching here, the whole Annapurna range becomes your front row view, and gives you a sense of accomplishment of reaching an elevation of 4130 meters successfully. Besides, what makes your adventure even more special is that you get to stay overnight at ABC's tea house, surrounded by Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna peak, and enjoy the stargazing view. While most of the packages turn back the same day, or descend to other stopping points, while opting for this package of 8 days ABC Trek, you get the full magical night.

Distinct Landscapes

The trail reveals Annapurna’s diverse beauty from the very first step. You’ll navigate through vibrant rhododendron forests blooming red and pink in spring, oak woodlands, lush green valleys, rivers, cascading waterfalls, and suspension bridges. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into golden terraced rice fields hand-carved by local farmers, showcasing their Himalayan resilience. Above 3,000 meters, alpine meadows give way to the breathtaking glacier amphitheatre of Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural wonder at 4,130 meters that leaves every trekker speechless.

Efficient 8-day itinerary 

  • Beginner-friendly pace, and suits every age group
  • Gradual ascents (400 - 500 meters per day) - minimises the risk of AMS
  • Pokhara round trip - suits perfectly for those who are already in Pokhara
  • Covers every highlighted corner of the route and includes a famous side trip to Poon Hill 

Annapurna Base Camp 8 Days Trek Cost for 2026 and 2027

The cost of the 8 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trekking varies on several factors, such as starting point, logistics, duration of the trip, transportation options and the number of hikers in the group. Whereas, our cost generally starts from USD 400 and goes upto USD 650, set on a group basis. If incase, the pricing doesn't match your budget estimation, or the itinerary does not align with your preferences, then you can customise the package with us.

Group Size Standard Price
1 650
2-4 480
5-8 450
9-12 400
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara starts today, where the guide will come to pick you up at the hotel where you are staying, hostel, or any stopping point, wherever you prefer. Then, after having breakfast and a brief introduction with the guide, we'll start the journey, with a short drive to Nayapul, which lasts for 1.5 hours. Soon after reaching the starting point, the hike begins towards Ulleri, following a gradual pace, along the roaring Modi Khola River and the Bhurungdi Khola. The trail passes through several villages of Birethanti, Hile, Tikhedhunga, and enters the forested area of the rhododendrons and pines, with many tea houses, and stops at tea/coffee points in between. Followed by a stone stair uphill walk, after 3 hours of walking on the trail, we will finally reach Ulleri, where we will be staying overnight.

Max Altitude: 2070 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5 hours

Leaving Ulleri behind, the trail begins towards Ghorepani, followed by the lush green forest area of oaks, pines, and rhododendron forest, with many small rivers and waterfalls, in between, and reaches the famous gurung's village of Birethanti and then, Nangthanti. Along with the red rhododendron forest, the view of the himalayan peaks starts to show up, including some of the great massive mountains of Annapurna I, South, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and Gangapurna. With a steep climb via well maintained pathway, we'll enter the notable Ghorepani village, a lively himalayan remote settlement, with the remote tea houses, slatted roofs, white blocks, and the colorful flora thriving all along. 

Max Altitude: 2875 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 4 - 5 hours

Today, at an early morning around 4 AM, we undertake the hike to Ghorepani Poon Hill View Point, following the famous stone staircase, with the upfront and prominent vista of the himalayan peaks, and colorful flowers. After an hour max. We will finally reach the Vantage Hill station point, at 3210 meters, where the sunrise golden view over the majestic mountains, including Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Gangapurna, and many others reward us, a pure haven in the heart of the himalayas. Gazing at the peaks, and sipping a cup of tea/coffee, with fresh air, mountains, and spending some good time here, we will descend back to Ghorepani tea house, have our breakfast, and then proceed with the hike to Tadapani.

Max Altitude: 3210 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hours

The trailhead today proceeds with a downhill walk to Sinuwa, from where we'll follow the route of the standard Annapurna Base Camp Trail. Following along the Chhomrong and Modi Rivers, we will reach Chhomrong.

Max Altitude: 2340 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hours

The morning begins with an impeccable sunrise view, and we get to enjoy the insight while having breakfast. The trekking trail starts with an uphill walk to Deurali, and we attain Bamboo. The route changes into the thriving red rhododendrons and bamboos as we enter deep into the lush green valley, feeling the serenity of the chirping birds feeling the serenity, and then, the landscapes become more visible and open as we reach Hiku cave, where the thundering view of the Annapurna range and surrounding alpine meadows, glaciers. Continuing the hike for almost 5 hours, crossing several rivers, waterfalls, and small tea houses in between, and suspension bridges, we will finally arrive at Deurali.

Max Altitude: 3230 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 5-6 hours

Today, finally, the day has arrived, that we trek to our ultimate final destination, Annapurna Base Camp, which soars at an elevation of 4130 meters. The hike begins soon after having a fulfilling breakfast, where the route leads us to Macchapuchare Base Camp (3700 meters), passing alpine valleys, with an accompaniment of the massive himalayan peaks, of Mardi Himal, Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the surrounding glaciers. We will finally reach Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), where the picturesque 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna Mountain (8091 meters) and its massif rewards us, making our trip worth it. On this very day, we will stay overnight at the Annapurna Sanctuary, spending the magical night at the foothill of the world's 10th-tallest peak.

Max Altitude: 4130 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 6 hours

After witnessing an astonishing mountain alpine panoramic vista, we will descend to Sinuwa from Annapurna Base Camp, following the downhill, passing through rugged, remote, and diverse terrains, and entering the forested area again. Even though the hike lasts for almost 6 hours, it is quite easier and smoother, so you do not have to worry about continuous descent, and retrace the pathway via Deurali, Bamboo, Hiku Cave, and arrive at Sinuwa.

Max Altitude: 2342 meters Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 6 hours

Finally, the adventure concludes today, where for the first 2 hours, we will descend from Siwai to Sinuwa, and then, undertake stone stairs to Chhomrong, and the notable, hot spring of Jhinu Danda. After taking a hot water spring bath here, we'll drive back to Pokhara, ending the trip.

Max Altitude: 820 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea houseDuration: 6-7 hours
Cost Details
Includes
  • Jeep Ride from Pokhara to Birethanti, and Siwai to Pokhara, to begin and end the trek
  • Accommodations throughout the adventure
  • Three Standard Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, with a cup of tea or coffee
  • Experienced English Proficiency Licensed Trekking Guide covering all his salary, food, equipment, and insurance
  • All required trekking permits: ACAP, TIMS card, and local entry fees
  • Destination Himalaya Treks, T-shirt, Cap, and a map
  • Water purification tablets and an oximeter to check the pulse rate
  • Official expense and, government tax, and VAT.

 

Excludes
  • All the Beverage bills and personal expenses (Hot water, Hot shower, Wifi charge, battery recharge, bottled water, Laundry charge )
  • Travel Insurance (must have your own that covers emergency medical bills and evacuation)
  • Porter Service at USD 150 (can be shared between two trekkers)
  • Tips for Guide and Porter
Add-ons & Options

Upgrade Your 8 days Annapurna Base Camp Trekking package with exclusive add-ons that transform your journey from comfortable to extraordinary. While our base package covers all essentials, these premium options, private transfers, and porter service elevate every moment. With 20+ years of guiding international trekkers, Destination Himalaya Treks crafts bespoke luxury upgrades unmatched by generic packages, perfectly tailored to your comfort and style.

  • Porter Service to carry your bagpack: USD 150 (can be shared between 2 trekkers)
  • Private Jeep Transfer from Pokhara to Nayapul: USD 100 per jeep (accommodates 6 passengers - best for group hike)
  • Private Jeep Transfer, Siwai - Pokhara: USD 100 
Dates & Availability
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Essential Information

When is the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill in 2026?

The Annapurna Trekking region is considered an all-around hiking season, as the trail is not too challenging, does not include any technical, icy, or glacier sections, and is straightforward. However, the best time stands out as Spring (March - May) and Autumn, from mid-September to November, when the weather remains stable, with clear views of the mountains and distinct landscapes. During this timeframe, there is a very low chance of precipitation (rain or snowfall), so the trailhead tends to be straightforward, dry, and smooth to navigate, making this time a perfect time for a Himalayan adventure.

During Spring, the whole lush green valley thrives astonishingly, in the colours of red and pink, with the chirping of migrating Himalayan birds all along. The sunlight hours also last longer, allowing trekkers to explore as much as they can without worrying about early darkness in mid-evening, covering every highlighted corner.

On the other hand, the season of Autumn is known as the peak time to wander along the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking route, as the year ends after the monsoon, making the weather clear, the air fresh, and the chances of cloud bursts minimal. The landscapes turn into a golden-brown crust, and the terraced fields become even more captivating with locally grown crops such as millets, mustard, and so on. What makes this time more special is that the major festivals of Dashain and Tihar fall between mid-October and mid-November, when hikers can celebrate and be part of the local celebrations, unveiling the rich culture of Nepal.

Besides, this adventure is doable during the winter and monsoon seasons as well, which is itself a unique experience; however, the real question is whether you are ready for the challenges, such as frequent weather changes, heavy snowfall, and a snowy navigation route. If yes, then, with prior experience and proper preparation, the trek to ABC during the off-season can be completed seamlessly; it's just that you have to be more cautious regarding packing and setting the itinerary accordingly.

8 days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal is considered a moderate trek, which can be undertaken by any kind of trekkers, beginners or experienced, and age groups from kids to senior citizens. The trailhead does not include challenging sections such as high passes, glacier or steep rocky pathways, making it doable easily, when compared to any other himalayan adventure.

The route features a forested area in the beginning, with no signboards in between, which might confuse the newcomers, indicating which is the right path. That is why the assistance of the guide is mandatory, which emphasizes the trip to be safer and hassle-free. Along the route, there are many tea houses and welcoming locals, with facilitated amenities; thus, hikers do not have to worry about standard basic logistics or be frustrated with anything, especially when it is a guided trek.

Daily, the hike proceeds for 4 to 5 hours, covering 6 to 12 kilometers of trekking distance, with some unpaved, rugged paths, and continuous ascent and downhill walk, demanding a basic level of fitness. However, you do not have to be experienced or require any technical knowledge. With proper preparedness, a month or weeks, engagement in the physical activity, like cardiovascular exercise, leg workout (stretching), and whole body medical checkups, this trek can be seamlessly completed.

The highest elevation that you reach on the trip marks 4130 meters, which is the Annapurna Base Camp itself, where you do not have to worry about altitude sickness, as it is lower in elevation. Besides, our 8-day Annapurna Base Camp Trekking itinerary entails a moderate altitude gain, 300-400 meters daily, letting your body adopt the rising high altitude, and has a rare possibility of altitude sickness. But ensure to follow the safety preventive guidelines throughout, hydrate well, wear warm clothes and sturdy shoes, follow the planned itinerary, and navigate with the assistance of the trekking guide.

Foods and Accommodations

The Annapurna Base Camp is a tea house trek, fully run by the locals themselves, so you can expect the lodges to be hygienically maintained, with all standard facilities included in the rooms. You can find a wide variation in the room types, from single standard to twin and group basis rooms with attached washrooms at lower trails, whereas, at the upper section, only sharing eastern bathrooms are available. Even though the accommodations are basic, all the amenities required are available, such as wifi, laundry, hot showers, and charging facilities.

For the meals, you'll find various meal options on the menu, which are served at the dining area, and are freshly prepared and cooked soon after you order. From western style to Chinese, continental, asian, indian to local meals, every kind will be provided, that caters to your taste and preference, which are nutritious and healthy, to savour in. Meanwhile, if you are allergic to some food ingredients or want to focus on a specific diet like protein, carbs, and exclude some allergic items, such as garlic, gluten, then inform the cook while ordering the meals, or you can just let the guide know.

Required Permits

There are two permits required for the ABC Trek: firstly, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and secondly, the  TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System Card), which can be obtained either from Kathmandu or Pokhara. These permits must be attained through a local registered travel agency, where the permit cost goes directly to protect the conservation area, to boost the local economy, and preserve the pristine himalayan flora and fauna. 

The ACAP costs approximately NPR 1000 (USD 8) for SAARC nations, whereas the costs are NPR 3000 USD 28 for other nationalities.

The TIMS Card cost, whereas NPR 2000 (USD 18) for all international trekkers.

Soon after your booking is confirmed, the required permits will be arranged by Destination Himalaya Treks, as it is covered in our package, including other logistics.

Things to Consider during Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

  • Before undertaking the trip, ensure to obtain travel insurance that includes all the required policies such as medical expenses, theft, delays, cancellation, and most importantly, the helicopter evacuation up to 2000 - 5000 meters.
  • Engage in physical preparedness activity, such as cardios like, like running, walking, cycling, and do research about the trails, and set a strong mindset, so that you get to hike for 4-5 hours and spend a week in the himalayas, without any problem.
  • While packing the gears and essentials, consider all seasonal factors, so that sudden weather changes won't create any fuss along the route.
  • Do not miss out on bringing a powerbank (20,000 mAH), for immediate charging to gadgets, as the sockets are only available at the dining area, and might be busy during peak seasons.
  • Buy a SIM Card (NTC or NCELL) for quick calls along the trekking route, whereas at the tea houses, the WIFI are available throughout, so do not worry about communication service.
  • If you are hiking along with kids, then it is suggested to bring a porter, as support to carry bagpack, and even children below 10 years old.
  • Do not be influenced by other fellow hikers that you meet en route; just navigate and follow the assistance of the trek throughout.

Booking Procedure

To confirm your booking with us for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill for 8 days, you just have to pay 20% of the total trip cost, where your payment is safely handled by us, and it takes only 1 minute to book your trip through our website. 

Being a part of NMA (Nepal Mountainning Association) and TAAN (Trekkers Association Agency of Nepal) for two decades, we try to ensure that your trip becomes safe from the very beginning. Soon after you make the bookings, we will send you a confirmation email with your name on it, payment details, and the date/time as well, so that you can be assured that your booking is safe with us.

The payment can be paid via bank transfer, Western Union, online or even cash, if you are already in Nepal. If not, then the online payment is the easiest method. The remaining amount can be paid after you get here, land in Nepal, and after booking, send us a copy of your passport, along with photos, and flight details to arrange the logistics and permits for the trip.

Need Help? Talk to Expert!
min gurung
Min Gurung
+977 9851016814
Great hike and guide

Baharat was the best guide!! Super helpful and accommodating up in the mountains for our 3 pass trek. 10/10. Ask for Baharat you won’t regret it- see you next time...

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W
Will S
December 21, 2025
Karma is a great guide!

We had Karma as a guide, he was professional, friendly, supportive, knowledgeable and a great guide. I always felt safe and had a wonderful trek on the ABC 7 day

c
cmK6123FB
December 08, 2025
Great trekking, competent guidance

We have done the Trek with Destination Himalaya Treks and have a great experience with it. Expert guide and strength and friendly porters. Guide had a good eye on whether...

read more +
T
Thea B
November 30, 2025
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