The Himalayas are home to 14 mountain peaks higher than 8000 meters (26246 feet) collectively called eight-thousanders, and interestingly, Annapurna was the first among these to be scaled. 

Annapurna is considered to be one of the most difficult and challenging peaks in the world to climb, and surely a trek to Annapurna base camp will be quite an achievement for those bitten by the mountain bug. On this trail, you will not just get to touch base with the untouched nature of the remote Himalayan regions, but will also be able to experience the warmth of the local Nepalese culture, soak in the spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range and get a close-up look at massive peaks which are amongst the famous ‘eight thousanders’.

Annapurna base camp trek lies in central Nepal and commences from Nayapul which is reached by a short drive of an hour and a half from Pokhara.

Detailed Itinerary for Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Day 01: Arrive in Pokhara (1400m)
Orientation Session

Pokhara is a small Himalayan town located six hours away from Kathmandu. Arrive here and report at the accommodation. An orientation session will be conducted in the evening where you can speak to the trek leaders and clear all your doubts. Stay overnight.

Day 02: Pokhara - Nayapul - Ghandruk (2012m)
Grade - Easy
Altitude Gain - 612m
Distance/Duration - 90 minute drive, 5km trek (5 Hours)

Start early in the morning and drive to Nayapul. The road to Nayapul whirls through the scenic countryside for about 1.5 hours until you reach the starting point of the trek. The initial trail is well laid out and has a lot of stairs intermittently. Later, trek along the Burundi River upstream, climbing gradually for about 4-5 hours to Tikhedhunga. Reach Ghandruk in the evening and stay overnight.

Day 03: Ghandruk to Sinuwa (2100m)
Grade - Moderate
Altitude Gain - 88m
Distance/Duration - 12km/7 Hours

Sinuwa is the destination set for today. Leaving the beautiful village of Ghandruk behind, it’s now time to hike up towards the destination of the trek.  Initially following the bank of the Modi River, you ascend for some time and then leaving the river behind, you climb towards the huge boulders. Walking past the boulder, you cross the bridge over the Kimrong River and climb a steep trail that will take us to the Gurung village, Chhomrong, crossing Jhinu Danda. From Chhomrong, you cross the bridge across the Chhomrong river and enjoying the view of bamboo, rhododendron and oak forest, you hike up to Sinuwa. The night will be spent at a lodge in Sinuwa.

Day 04: Sinuwa to Deurali (3200m)
Grade - Moderate
Altitude Gain - 1100m
Distance/Duration - 11km/7 Hours

Today you have to hike up to Hinku Cave and finally Deurali. Start out from Sinuwa on an easy walk till bamboo passing Kuldhar. Tread onto the steep stone staircase to Dobhan, and cross a suspension bridge. A steep climb through the valley will lead you to Himalaya and Hinku cave. Reach Deurali and spend the night here in a lodge.

Day 05: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)
Grade - Difficult
Altitude Gain - 1100m
Distance/Duration - 12km/8 Hours

The trail from Deurali to Machapuchare Base Camp is an avalanche-prone area. At times you would have to cross over to the other side of the Modi River to avoid rock fall areas. It will take about 3 hours to get to Machapuchare base Camp at 3,700 m. At Machapuchare Base Camp valley opens up wide and bright with beautiful snow peaks. The trail to Annapurna base camp climbs gradually to the snowfield at the edge of a glacier. At base camp, you are at an amphitheatre surrounded by the world's highest mountains. Stay overnight.

Day 06: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2350m)
Grade - Moderate
Altitude Loss - 1780m
Distance/Duration - 15km/8 Hours

After a beautiful sunrise view over the Annapurna, you will head down slowly to Bamboo, a pretty little settlement. The first part of the trail might be steep and slippery, so be cautious. After trekking through the day, arrive in the small village and stay overnight.

Day 07: Bamboo to Jhinu Hot Springs (1710m)
Grade - Easy
Altitude Loss - 1780m
Distance/Duration - 12km/7 Hours

Start trekking after breakfast and follow the same trail that you took to climb up to Chhomrong. Climb down on stone steps to the village of Jhinu, settle into your lodge and then walk to a natural hot spring in half an hour. Enjoy the natural hot spring and explore the surroundings of the area. Stay overnight at the pre-booked lodge.

Day 08: Jhinu -Nayapul - Pokhara (1400m)
Grade - Easy
Altitude Loss - 310m
Distance/Duration - 11km Trek (6 Hours), 90 Minute Drive

From Jhinu, you traverse for around 6 hours along the Modi River to Nayapul from where you started your trek. You will be picked up by car for a drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight.

Day 09: Departure from Pokhara
This day brings an end to the epic adventure that this trek to the ABC was. Check out from your accommodation and get on with your journey.

Trip Ends.

FAQs for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

1) How difficult is the trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
The trek falls under the moderate category so anyone having a decent level of fitness and some trekking experience can attempt to go. Although, a couple of months of physical training is an absolute must. The trail goes through different kinds of terrains-dense forests, steep climbs and rough paths through villages but it never gets too technical so mountaineering skills are not mandatory. 

2) Which is the best time to do Annapurna trek?
The best time to go for this trek is Autumn (September to November), which offers the experience of trekking through lush green countryside and having clear views of the Himalayas. March - April is also a popular time to visit, because the weather is relatively warmer. And you will be able to see beautiful varieties of red and white rhododendrons and many other exotic flowers during this season.

3) What kind of terrains will I find on the trek?
The route is very clearly marked out with route signs. The trail meanders through splendid jungles that pass through rustic villages. You will also cross a river to go down one side, over the river and up the other side. You will find endless stairs which meander up steep hill sections. The trek goes through diverse vegetation such as forest, bamboo sections, and arid alpine regions.

4) What kind of shoes should I wear?
You will need to have a good pair of water-resistant trekking boots with strong ankle support that will provide you comfort and grip during the trek. Try breaking in your shoes before trekking so as to avoid blisters.

5) Should I carry medicines for the trek?
You should consult your doctor before starting the trip and take their advice about taking any sort of medication.

6) Will I be able to buy/rent trekking equipment in Pokhara?
You are advised to bring all the trekking gear before reaching Pokhara. Thamel in Kathmandu is the best place to get gear related to trekking.