- Group Size: 1-12 people
- Min. Age: 8
- Max. Altitude : 4130 m / 13550 ft
- Arrival on: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Departure from: Kathmandu, Nepal
Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the heart of Annapurna Region
Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to one of Nepal’s oldest and most popular trekking trails. The first trekkers to Nepal had trodden on these paths. Take the same trail taken by the pioneers. Visit settlements of the valiant Gurkha warriors and set foot on Annapurna Base Camp. The trek to Annapurna Base Camp leads you from the verdant hills to a wondrous world of snow and ice. Step on a glacial sanctuary fortified by the spectacular Annapurna Massif. Celebrate the incomparable beauty of the Himalayas at ABC. You lie in a frozen ring of 7000 and 8000-meter peaks including Annapurna I, the tenth highest peak in the world.
Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Kimchi village. From the first day’s trek to the last, our seasoned trek leader will be there to lend support and guidance. Hike past traditional Gurung villages and green terraced fields neatly sculpted on mountainsides. The forked summit of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) looms over the trail. Annapurna Region has seen major development in the past few years, yet the trail to Annapurna Base Camp remains untouched. It is a joy to walk beneath soaring Himalayan peaks and trees laden with flowers. During spring the trail bursts into a profusion of pink, red and white rhododendron blooms. In addition, on the last leg of your trek, enjoy a relaxing dip at Jhinu Danda’s hot springs. Finally in Pokhara, get nostalgic at Phewa Lake. Gaze at the reflection of peaks under whose shadows you had walked.
If you are reasonably fit and looking for a high altitude walk lasting for just over a week, then this short Annapurna trek is just right for you. Within a short duration of eleven days, you will be able to reach an elevation of 4310m, cross two base camps (ABC and Machhapuchhre Base Camp) and stand at a natural amphitheater, close to some of the world’s highest peaks. But if you are looking for something challenging, then we have our Annapurna Circuit Trek which involves a crossing of a high mountain pass, Thorung La, at 5,460m. Covering the circuit will let you experience the unique Bhotia culture and dramatic landscapes. If you have fitness issues but still want an Annapurna experience, then our Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is ideal for you.
Best Time To Go
Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) are the ideal seasons for Annapurna Base Camp trekking. The daytime temperature is just perfect during this time. It is neither too hot nor too cold during these times. While an autumn trek promises clear skies and stunning mountain vistas, a Spring trek will let you experience the first blooms of the season. Walk on a trail filled with colorful rhododendron trees. Nights on the mountains are usually cold. Above 4,000 meters, you can expect nighttime temperatures to drop as low as -10 degrees
Why Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
- Follow a classic route to Annapurna Base Camp in the Annapurna Region
- Visit the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary
- Stand beneath the Annapurna Massif, including Annapurna I (8091m)
- Walk through mountain villages of the brave Gurkha soldiers
- Sample Gurung hospitality
- Enjoy a relaxing soak at Jhinu Danda’s natural hot spring
Is this trip suitable for you?
- You can do this trek if you are reasonably fit and are used to walking on hilly terrain. Beginners can also do this trek.
- ABC Trek is easier and shorter than other high altitude treks.
- The highest point reached during the trek is the Annapurna Base Camp at 4130m.
- You will have to trek for 8 days on an uphill and downhill trail.
- Each day you will have to walk for 5 to 6 hours. You stop for lunch at a local teahouse. At the end of the day you stop at a comfortable teahouse/mountain lodge.
- The route crosses a typical Nepalese countryside (terraced fields, mountainside villages), rhododendron forests, two base camps and a hot spring.
- You get to enjoy phenomenal views of Annapurna Massif without technical climbing.
Private Departure
*TOURS DEPART EVERYDAY OF THE YEAR
Fixed Departure
Selected Package: Standard
Accommodation and Meal
Accommodation
Accommodation for 7 nights on the trail is included in this package. You will be staying at local teahouses that are clean and comfortable. The trails along the Annapurna Region are dotted with well-facilitated mountain lodges. Most of the teahouses offer hot showers, wi-fi, rooms with en suite bathrooms and variety of meals. While trekking you will be staying at these mountain lodges –Annapurna Hotel in Ghandruk, Lucky Guest House in Chhomrong, Bamboo Guest House in Bamboo, Panorama Guest House in Deurali, Paradise Guest House at Annapurna Base Camp and Hotel Namaste at Jhinu Danda.
Accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included in this package. Both these cities offer a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious five star hotels to budget hotels. If you would like to stay at a 3-star category hotel, then we recommend the popular Oasis Kathmandu Hotel in Kathmandu and Hotel Pokhara Batika at Pokhara. These hotels lie close to the business hubs and major sightseeing places. Please do let us know if you want us to book rooms for you.
Accommodation is on twin-sharing basis. You will have to share the room with someone of the same sex, if you are travelling alone. If you require a single room, it will be available at an extra cost. Do click on the ‘single supplement’ tab while booking your trip. While single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and at lower elevations on the trail, at higher reaches it is very difficult to get a single room.
Meals:
Except for ‘Farewell Dinner’ in Kathmandu, no meals are included in this package. Kathmandu and Pokhara have an abundance of good restaurants serving world class cuisine. If you need some suggestions, you can always ask your guide or our travel consultant. They will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.
While trekking you will be stopping for meals at local teahouses. Items on offer include dal-bhat (rice, lentils, curry), momo, Tibetan bread, chapattis, noodles, pizza, pancake etc.
Standard or Deluxe - Choose your travel style!
Planning a vacation calls for many decisions. One of the easiest ways to travel is to book with a travel company and let the experts take care of the planning and logistics. But some travelers want the freedom to explore options that packaged tours rarely offer. Taking into account the needs of an average traveler, we have designed two packages - Standard and Deluxe. A Standard Package offers a combination of services at a lower price and freedom to do certain things your own way (for instance, choosing your own accommodation in the city). Choose a Deluxe Package, if you want to take the stress out of planning your trip. After booking a Deluxe Package, you can rest easy knowing that the experts are there to plan your holiday. If you have zeroed in on your destination, all you have to do is select the package that suits your travel style and book your trip!
Important Information
Click on the tab below for a detailed Trip Note containing all the information about this trip, including passport and visa requirements, travel insurance, gear list, best time to visit etc.
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Day to Day Itinerary
Arrival on: Kathmandu, Nepal | Departure from: Kathmandu, Nepal
DAY 1:
Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m/4,593ft) & Trip Preparation 
Welcome to Kathmandu! Our representative will receive you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Meet the other team members and trek leader at the pre-trip meeting held later in the day. A briefing by your trek leader on your Annapurna adventure will follow. Listen carefully as your trek leader describes in detail the trail and what to expect during the trek. Further check your gears for the final time. If you have forgotten any item you can buy or hire it from any of the shops selling trekking gear. Get suggestions from your trek leader. Later head to the lively tourist hub of Thamel. We recommend you to schedule your arrival to Kathmandu in the morning or during the day, so as to enable you to attend the group briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.
DAY 2:
Fly to Pokhara (800m/2625ft.)- Drive to Kimchi - Trek to Ghandruk (1940m/6365ft.)
Get up early and prepare to leave Kathmandu. From the domestic airport in Kathmandu take a scenic flight to Pokhara, a pretty lakeside town. On reaching Pokhara, board a vehicle and drive to Kimchi. A two and a half hours drive brings you to this small settlement from where your trek begins. Climb on well-laid stone steps all the way to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village and home to brave Gurkha soldiers. Explore the village. There are many interesting places you can head to, like the Gurung Museum for instance. There’s also a Buddhist Monastery nearby. Immerse yourself in the local mountain culture while interacting with the villagers. Enjoy fantastic views of Annapurna Himal. Overnight in Ghandruk.
DAY 3:
Trek Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m/7119ft)
Walk past terraced fields, and follow a winding route down to Kimrong Khola, occasionally passing through cascading waterfalls. From time to time stop for awhile to take in the views. Cross a bridge and thereafter take a steep ascent via a stone staircase to Chhomrong, another Gurung village. As soon as you reach the village head towards a teahouse and rest your aching muscles. From Chhomrong, the snowy walls of Annapurna South and Machhapucchre (Fishtail Peak) seem very close. Take pictures and simply let the majestic beauty of the mountains work its magic on you. Overnight in Chhomrong.
DAY 4:
Trek Chhomrong to Bamboo (2310m/7579ft)
Today’s trek involves more steep descents and ascents on stone staircases. Walk down a flight of steps to Chhomrong Khola and cross the metal suspension bridge. An uphill hike through a wooded trail filled with oak, bamboo and rhododendron trees brings you to Khuldighar. From here take an easy descent down to Bamboo, your stop for the night. Bamboo is made up of a cluster of teahouses catering to trekkers on the Annapurna trail. Overnight in Bamboo.
DAY 5:
Trek Bamboo to Deurali (3230m/10,597ft)
Hike through a track shaded by thickets of bamboo. The path opens up after Himalaya Hotel offering delightful views of the glacial river flowing down the valley. Your itinerary involves a steep ascent to the historic Hinku Cave that served as an overnight camp for the first group of climbers daring to ascend Annapurna I. Follow an undulating path till you reach Deurali, a small settlement with few blue-roofed stone huts. As you gain altitude the temperature begins to dip and you begin to feel the cold, especially at night. Overnight in Deurali.
DAY 6:
Trek Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m/12139ft)
Leave Deurali behind and make a quick descent down to a glacial river. In order to reach ABC you need to first cross Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Enter the Machhapuchhre Base Camp through a narrow valley flanked by steep mountainsides. The walk through the ‘natural gateway’ to Annapurna Sanctuary (abode of the gods according to local folklore) is an unforgettable experience; one that you will remember long after your trek is over. As you get higher the tree line disappears and the vegetation gets sparser. From Machhapuchhre Base Camp enjoy glorious views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail peak), Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Hiunchuli. Though the area is known as Machhapuchhre Base Camp, climbing on the peak is strictly forbidden. The mountain is a guardian deity of the locals. Ascend higher till you reach Annapurna Base Camp. The base camp lies in a valley surrounded by glaciers and the grand peaks of the Annapurna Massif. The awe inspiring sight will be enough to melt away all your aches and pains! Overnight in Annapurna Base Camp.
DAY 7:
Trek Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft) to Bamboo (2310m/7579ft)
First thing you do is get up early to catch the sun rising over the snowy peaks. Secondly head down to the Annapurna Sanctuary to witness this phenomenal sight. Watch the spectacular display of light and colour, as the first rays of the sun touch the frozen peaks making them seem like a ring of melted gold. Capture this moment in your mind and your camera to be treasured forever. Explore the glacial bowl and stand beneath the icy circle formed by the peaks of Annapurna Himal, including Annapurna South, Tharpu Chuli, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna III & IV and Annapurna I, the tenth highest peak in the world. Later on take a long descent down to Bamboo. Overnight in Bamboo.
DAY 8:
Trek Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1760m/5774 ft)
From Bamboo head to Jhinu Danda, a beautiful settlement famous for its natural hot springs. Follow an up and down trail past a verdant trail. Hike through Chhomrong before you make a final descent to the ridge-top settlement of Jhinu Danda, your overnight stop. After checking into the teahouse, immediately walk down to the riverside and relax your tired muscles with a dip in the naturally heated pool. Later head to a teahouse and celebrate the completion of your trek with the crew and team members. Overnight in Jhinu Danda.
DAY 9:
Trek Jhinu Danda to Siwai (1340m/4396ft) and drive to Pokhara
The last leg of your trek takes you to Siwai. Walk past terraced fields and traditional farms till you reach Siwai. As soon as you reach there, board a vehicle and head to Pokhara. Once you arrive in Pokhara check into your hotel. The lakeside city is frequently visited by international as well as domestic tourists. The rest of the day is for you to spend it on your own. Take a well deserved rest or stroll around the lakeside area. Sit by the serene Phewa Lake gazing at Machhpuchhre’s reflection and colourful boats. If you want to see more of Pokhara you can book a half-day guided sightseeing tour at an extra cost. Overnight in Pokhara.
DAY 10:
Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu
You finally leave Pokhara and drive to Kathmandu. It is a pleasant ride filled with refreshing mountain views and village scenes. You drive beside the Trishuli River. Watch people in bright rafting gear paddling down the river. Midway there will be stops for refreshments. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, check into your hotel. Take rest for as long as you like. Later on, go souvenir shopping or visit some places of interest. Celebrate the conclusion of your Nepal Annapurna Base Camp Trek with a complimentary farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.
DAY 11:
Final Departure
You will be driven to the airport in due time to catch your flight (three hours prior to the scheduled departure). If you want you can extend your trip and explore more of the country. Choose from our vast range of itineraries or allow us to customize a tour for you. Bid goodbye to Nepal !
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Inclusion
What's Included
- Airport pick up & drop off service for international and domestic flights.
- All ground transportation by comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek.
- Domestic flight (Kathmandu-Pokhara).
- Professional, English-speaking, government-licensed, trained in first-aid Trek Leader (Guide), Assistant Trekking Guide (5 trekkers: 1 assistant guide).
- Sherpa porters to carry luggage (Porter service -2 Trekkers:1 Porter)
- Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, transportation and accommodation.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Entry Fee, TIMS and Trekking Permit.
- Complimentary Farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant.
- First Aid kit and essential medicines (paracetamol, diamox etc.) carried by the Trek Leader.
- Third Rock Adventures' T-shirt and map
- All Local and Government taxes, administrative charges
What's not Included
- Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Nepal Visa fee.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- International flights
- Excess baggage fee. Baggage allowance for Lukla flight is 15kg (10kg check-in baggage + 5 kg hand baggage).
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, beverages, snacks, phone calls, extra porters, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, souvenirs, hot showers etc.)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment. Down jacket and sleeping bag(available on hire)
- Tips for guide, porter and driver (tipping is expected)
- Any unseen expenses due to circumstances beyond our control (natural calamities, strike etc.)
- Expenses not listed in the ‘Price Includes’ section
JOIN OUR FIXED DEPARTURE
The dates listed above are for Fixed Group Departures only. In case you want to book a Fixed Group Departure Trip but the slots are already full, we can still reserve a place for you. The itinerary is also flexible and if you want to add or deduct a day or two it can be done. Just send us an email or call us, and we will do the needful.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please keep yourself informed and updated about the places you are about to visit. We have tried to incorporate as much information as possible about this trip on our website. For more information about this trip (for example visa rules, travel insurance, permits etc.) please do go through the ‘Trip Note.’ However, if you feel the information provided is not enough and you still have queries regarding this trip, then you can send us an email or call us at +977-9851196875
Trip Note
Click this tab for a detailed Trip Note containing essential information about this trip, including gear and equipment lists and practical information.
Essential Trip InformationLATEST TRAVELLER'S REVIEWS
Who recently returned from their trips
GermanyAnnapurna Base Camp trek was amazing! Amazing Guide! No pressure.
This was our first trek in Nepal and we were so lucky to have found Tussi at the Oasis hotel. He helped us book flights and arrange a guide. He sat with us for a while and went through the options for the treks and after getting to know us a bit better he was able to match us up with a guide that was perfect. My girlfriend and I were matched up with Dpack - our guide which we became friends with on the trek, he was knowledgeable about the area and took really good care of us. After the trek, we actually met up with Dpack (our guide) in Kathmandu for lunch and he showed us around the local spots in the city. I can't recommend Third Rock enough and cannot wait to go back to Nepal.
MalaysiaAnnapurna Base Camp Trek
I came to nepal with my friends with hope of standing next to the great Annapurna ranges. Third Rock Adventures made our dream come true. They took care of everything,from an excellent english speaking guide, porters, accomodation and food, everything was taken care of. Their responsible attitude and unmatched service has really touched us to the core. We felt blessed to be among such beautiful mountains and we felt even more blessed to have Third Rock Adventures guide us all the way to the top. I highly recommend Third Rock Adventures to everyone who want to trek in Nepal.
Republic of KoreaFantastic trekking and good people
We did Annapuruna trekking with Third Rock Adventures! The porter and guide was very very good people so the trekking was best to me. If I come back again I choose this agency again. Thank you very much because thanks to this agency I had a very happy time! I really recommend to you guys.
United States of AmericaOne of the most beautiful treks ever taken
A friend of mine had done the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. After going through his Instagram pictures and videos of his trek, I was hooked. I knew I had to do this trek and visit this wonderful place. My friend had trekked with Third Rock Adventures and he recommended this company. According to him they were highly professional and employed some really good guides. He was not wrong. I booked my ABC trek with the company and I had no complaints. My guide Shiva, was jolly and quite knowledgeable about the local area and culture, while Ram (the porter) was humble, patient and ever smiling. The villages and terraced fields along the trail were beautiful. The joy and relief that I felt on reaching ABC cannot be put into words. The experience was simply incredible. Thank you Third Rock Adventures for this amazing journey! If I take another adventure in Nepal in the near future, it will definitely be with you guys!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Each day you can expect 5 to 7 hours of walking, covering around 10 to 14 km. However when you reach 3500m, you will be walking around 5 to 7 hours but the distance covered will be less as you will be walking slowly at higher altitudes. We want you to know that all our itineraries are flexible and can be altered by weather, geographical and physical condition of the individual participants
Teahouse trekking is one of the most popular ways of trekking in Nepal. Teahouse trekking has almost replaced old style camping treks in Nepal along the popular trekking routes of Annapurna and Everest regions. Teahouse Trek involves resting or stopping at teahouses or lodges scattered along the trail for the night. The teahouses are locally owned and they provide accommodation and food. While the standard of teahouses varies, most of these establishments usually offer very basic services - small rooms (usually on a twin sharing basis with comfortable beds), shared washroom, a heated communal dining area and a menu with a range of dishes. Some may offer wi-fi and hot shower. As these teahouses are located in remote locations, one should not expect the service of a city hotel while staying in one
Mountain weather is very difficult to predict. During winter (November to February) it will be a bit colder than the other months but the days during winter can be beautiful and warm if the sun is out. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (late September to early November) are the best time to trek in the Annapurna region. During the rainy season (June to early September) there is usually torrential rain in the mountain regions and trekking is not advisable. But in hindsight, no one can predict the weather conditions in the mountains. One can only expect the unexpected in the mountains
QUESTION AND ANSWER
Our fixed departures for 2020 will be on up our website shortly. If you want to book a private trek, you can book anytime you like. But if you want to join a group you will have to wait until we work out the dates for 2020. We usually book our flights with Yeti Airlines or Buddha Air. But it depends on availability. Sometimes during peak season it gets difficult to get a ticket. In such cases we buy tickets from any airline that has available seats.
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