Overview
Trek to the sanctuary of the gods on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Walk through vibrant rhododendron forests, Gurung villages, and stand inside a 360-degree ring of towering snow-capped peaks including Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and the sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail).
Trip Highlights
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m)
- Bathe in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
- Spectacular views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Annapurna I
- Walk through lush bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forests
- Experience the rich culture of Gurung and Magar communities in Chhomrong
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel
Welcome to Nepal. Transfer from airport to hotel in Thamel. Evening tour briefing.
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)
Scenic 6-7 hour tourist bus drive to Pokhara, the city of lakes, alongside the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers.
Drive to Matque & Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m)
A scenic 2.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Matque (via Nayapul), the trail head. Walk through Jhinu Danda and ascend up stone steps to Chhomrong Gurung village.
Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2,600m)
Descend via stone steps to Chhomrong Khola, cross the suspension bridge, and climb to Sinuwa. Walk through dense bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forests to reach Dovan.
Trek from Dovan to Deurali (3,230m)
Ascend steadily through the lush bamboo forest, passing the Hinku Cave, and walk alongside the Modi Khola river to reach the settlement of Deurali.
Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via MBC (3,700m)
A spectacular climb alongside the Modi Khola valley. First, reach Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) for lunch, then trek another 2 hours into the magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary to reach ABC.
Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310m)
Wake up early to catch the breathtaking golden sunrise over the Annapurna range. After breakfast, retrace our steps down the valley, descending rapidly to Bamboo.
Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m) & Hot Springs
Trek up to Chhomrong village, then descend steeply to Jhinu Danda. In the afternoon, walk down to the banks of the Modi Khola to relax and soothe your muscles in the natural hot springs.
Trek to Siwai & Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Trek from Jhinu to Siwai (about 2-3 hours), cross the long suspension bridge, and take a scenic drive back to Pokhara. Enjoy a free afternoon by the peaceful Phewa Lake.
Drive/Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Take a scenic tourist bus or optional flight back to Kathmandu. Free afternoon in Thamel for souvenir shopping and a farewell dinner in the evening.
Departure from Nepal
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight back home. Safe travels!
Cost Details
What's Included
- Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
- Internal flights (e.g., Lukla) or ground transportation as per itinerary
- Airport pickup and drop services in a private vehicle
- Standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- All necessary permits (TIMS Card, National Park or Conservation Area permits)
- An experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed guide
- Local porters/crew to carry luggage or manage logistics
- First aid kit, including pulse oximeter carried by the guide
- Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes, office service charges, and paperwork
What's Excluded
- International airfare to/from Nepal and airport departure taxes
- Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport)
- Travel insurance that covers emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation (mandatory)
- Personal expenses (alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, laundry, telephone, Wi-Fi)
- Electricity/Battery charging and hot shower fees in tea houses
- Personal trekking or climbing equipment (sleeping bag, boots, jacket)
- Tips and gratuities for trekking guide, climbing guide, porters, and driver
Gear & Packing List
Clothing & Layers
6 items- Moisture-wicking base layers (2-3 sets)
- Insulating fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof & windproof outer shell
- Trekking trousers & thermal leggings
- Warm hat, sun hat & UV-rated sunglasses
- Waterproof gloves (liner + outer)
Footwear & Accessories
5 items- Broken-in waterproof trekking boots
- Camp shoes or lightweight sandals
- Merino wool trekking socks (3-4 pairs)
- Trekking poles (adjustable, recommended)
- Gaiters (for snow/mud sections)
Equipment & Essentials
6 items- 4-season sleeping bag (-15°C rated)
- 40-50L trekking backpack + rain cover
- Headlamp/torch with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottle + purification tabs
- SPF 50+ sunscreen & lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit & medications
Most gear can be rented or purchased affordably in Kathmandu's Thamel district. Pack smart — your porter will carry a main duffel (up to 15kg), so keep daily essentials in your daypack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits are required for this trek?
All necessary trekking permits are included in your package cost. This typically includes the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and the relevant National Park or Conservation Area entry permit. Our team handles the entire paperwork process for you in Kathmandu before departure.
How do I prevent altitude sickness (AMS)?
Our itinerary is carefully designed with proper acclimatization days built in. We recommend staying hydrated (3-4 liters/day), ascending gradually, and avoiding alcohol at altitude. Our guides carry pulse oximeters and first-aid kits to monitor your health daily. We can also advise on Diamox (Acetazolamide) consultation with your doctor before departure.
What level of fitness is required?
You don't need to be an elite athlete, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. We suggest starting a training routine 2-3 months before the trek — focusing on cardio exercises like jogging, stair climbing, and hiking with a loaded backpack. The daily trekking hours typically range from 5-7 hours at a comfortable pace.
Are meals and drinking water provided?
Yes. Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are included throughout the trek, served at teahouses or lodges. The food is hearty and nutritious — dal bhat (lentils and rice), pasta, soups, eggs, and fresh vegetables. Drinking water and purification options are always available.
What is the accommodation like during the trek?
Along the trail, you'll stay in locally-owned teahouses (mountain lodges). Rooms are twin-sharing with basic beds and blankets. Hot showers and charging facilities are available at most stops for a small fee. In Kathmandu, you'll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel with modern amenities.