Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Welcome to Nepal, the land of the Himalayas and rich cultural heritage.

Upon your arrival at:

Tribhuvan International Airport

Our representative will warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

During the drive, you will get your first glimpse of the vibrant capital city and its unique blend of ancient culture and modern life.

After hotel check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey or explore the nearby area at your leisure. Your trekking and tour briefing will follow according to the itinerary schedule.

We wish you a wonderful stay and an unforgettable adventure in Nepal.

After the briefing, the day continues with a guided Kathmandu sightseeing tour, covering some of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cultural landmarks in Nepal.

Pashupatinath Temple – Sacred Hindu Pilgrimage Site

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world and a major pilgrimage destination.

Located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Pashupati). According to Hindu mythology, it is one of the most important spiritual sites (Char Dham concept in broader tradition).

Visitors can observe:

• Traditional Hindu rituals
• Cremation ceremonies along the riverbank
• Spiritual practices and temple architecture

It offers a deep insight into Hindu beliefs about life, death, and rebirth.

Boudhanath Stupa – Center of Tibetan Buddhism

Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a major center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.

Surrounded by monasteries and prayer wheels, the stupa is a peaceful spiritual hub where visitors can:

• Observe Buddhist monks in daily rituals
• Learn about Buddhist philosophy
• Explore traditional Thanka paintings and art
• Experience the calming atmosphere of chanting and prayer

It is one of the most powerful spiritual experiences in Kathmandu.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square – Ancient Royal Heritage City

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval royal palace complexes in Nepal.

This historic square reflects the glory of the ancient Malla Kingdom and is famous for its rich architecture and cultural heritage.

Major attractions include:

• Nyatapola Temple – the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal
• 55-Window Palace
• Golden Gate (Sun Dhoka)
• Lion Gate
• Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla
• Traditional pottery square where local artisans work

Bhaktapur is often called a “living museum” due to its preserved culture and craftsmanship.

Evening Preparation for the Trek

After completing the cultural tour, you return to your hotel in Kathmandu. The evening is dedicated to:

• Final luggage checking and packing for the trek
• Reviewing trekking equipment
• Personal preparation for departure

If you wish, you can also explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, known for its trekking shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Choose a comfortable restaurant for dinner and rest well before your Himalayan adventure begins.

Today, you begin your trekking journey deeper into the Annapurna region with a scenic drive followed by a short but rewarding uphill hike.

Pokhara to Tikhedhunga – Scenic Drive

After breakfast in Pokhara, you take a drive directly to Tikhedhunga (1,570m), which takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on road conditions.

The route passes through beautiful countryside landscapes, rivers, terraced fields, and small local settlements, gradually transitioning from urban Pokhara into rural mountain terrain.

Trek Begins: Tikhedhunga to Ulleri

From Tikhedhunga, your first real uphill trekking section begins toward Ulleri.

The trail initially follows a gentle riverside path along the Bhurungdi Khola, crossing small bridges and passing traditional villages.

Lunch Stop on the Trail

Around midday, you stop for lunch at a local teahouse along the route. This is a good rest point before the challenging ascent begins.

Steep Stone Steps to Ulleri

After lunch, the trail becomes significantly steeper as you begin the famous stone staircase ascent to Ulleri.

This section is known for:

• Long stone steps (one of the steepest early climbs in the Annapurna region)
• Gradual forest surroundings
• Increasing mountain views as you gain altitude

Although physically demanding, the climb is rewarding with fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery.

 Arrival at Ulleri

You finally reach Ulleri, a traditional Magar village located at a higher elevation in the hills.

1. Altitude: ~2,050m (approx.)
2. Comfortable teahouse accommodation
3. Stunning views of the surrounding hills and distant peaks
4. Peaceful mountain village atmosphere

Ulleri is your overnight stop, allowing rest and preparation for the next day’s deeper ascent into the Annapurna region.

Summary

1. Drive: Pokhara → Tikhedhunga
2. Trek: Tikhedhunga → Ulleri
3. Lunch: En route teahouse stop
4. Highlight: Steep stone staircase climb
5. Overnight: Ulleri village

This day marks your transition from scenic travel to true Himalayan trekking, as you begin gaining altitude and entering the heart of the Annapurna foothills.

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Annapurna foothills, passing through beautiful forests, traditional villages, and steadily gaining altitude toward Ghorepani (2,840m).

 Ulleri to Banthanti – Gradual Ascent Begins

After completing the steep stone steps climb to Ulleri at the beginning of your trekking journey, today’s walk becomes comparatively more gradual and enjoyable.

Ulleri is a large traditional Magar village situated at around 2,070m, offering stunning hillside views and a peaceful mountain atmosphere.

From Ulleri, the trail begins a steady ascent through lush oak and rhododendron forests, marking a beautiful transition into alpine trekking terrain.

Forest Trail to Banthanti (Lunch Stop)

The path continues through shaded forest trails filled with birds, waterfalls, and natural streams until reaching Banthanti, the designated lunch stop.

• Trek duration: ~3.5 hours from Tikhedhunga
• Terrain: Forest trail with moderate ascent
• Experience: Peaceful natural surroundings

This section is especially refreshing, with cool air and dense greenery all around.

Banthanti to Nangethanti – Entering Higher Altitudes

After lunch, the trek continues uphill toward Nangethanti (2,460m).

The forest becomes quieter and slightly colder as altitude increases, with occasional clearings offering views of surrounding hills and valleys.

Arrival at Ghorepani (2,840m)

The final stretch of the day leads you to one of the most popular trekking villages in the Annapurna region:

Ghorepani

Located at 2,840 meters, Ghorepani is a vibrant mountain settlement known for:

• Stunning panoramic Himalayan views
• Traditional lodges and teahouses
• Gateway to Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint
• Rhododendron forests (especially beautiful in spring)

This village is a key highlight of the Annapurna trekking route and a perfect place to rest before the early morning hike to Poon Hill.

Summary

1. Start: Ulleri (2,070m)
2. Lunch stop: Banthanti (after ~3.5 hours trek)
3. Via: Nangethanti (2,460m)
4. End point: Ghorepani (2,840m)
5. Highlight: Beautiful forest trails & rising Himalayan views

Today’s trek is a perfect blend of forest landscapes, cultural villages, and gradual Himalayan ascent, bringing you closer to the iconic viewpoints of the Annapurna region.

Today’s trek continues deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary route, combining forest trails, traditional villages, and scenic mountain landscapes.

Descent from Tadapani through Rhododendron Forests

The day begins with a gradual descent from Tadapani, walking through dense rhododendron and oak forests. This section is peaceful and scenic, with occasional views of hills, valleys, and distant Himalayan peaks.

Arrival at Chhomrong (2,170m)

You continue trekking until reaching the beautiful Gurung village of Chhomrong, one of the most important settlements in the Annapurna region.

Chhomrong lies at an altitude of 2,170 meters, built on a steep hillside overlooking the surrounding valley.

Lunch Stop in Chhomrong

Chhomrong is a popular stop for lunch and rest, offering:

• Traditional teahouses and lodges
• Stunning views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
• A vibrant local Gurung community atmosphere
• Descent to Chhomrong Khola

After lunch, the trail descends steeply toward the Chhomrong Khola (river). This section involves stone steps and a downhill walk into the valley.

The descent is followed by a short but steady uphill climb on the opposite side of the valley.

Ascent to Sinuwa (2,340m)

From the river, the trail ascends gradually through forested terrain, leading to:

Sinuwa

Located at 2,340 meters, Sinuwa is a quiet mountain settlement surrounded by dense forests and misty hills.

Here you:

• Check into a teahouse lodge
• Rest after a full day of ups and downs
• Enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere

Summary

• Trek: Tadapani → Chhomrong (2,170m)
• Lunch stop: Chhomrong village
• River crossing: Chhomrong Khola
• Final ascent: Sinuwa (2,340m)
• Overnight: Sinuwa

Today’s journey offers a classic Annapurna experience—forest trails, river valleys, traditional Gurung villages, and rewarding uphill climbs, all leading deeper into the Himalayas.

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary region, following forested trails, river crossings, and dramatic gorge landscapes along the Upper Modi Valley.

Sinuwa to Kuldi Ghar (2,470m) – Entering Rhododendron Forest Zone

The day begins with a gradual uphill climb through dense rhododendron and mixed forest trails, offering a peaceful walking experience surrounded by nature.

You pass through:

Kuldi Ghar is at around 2,470 meters, a forest checkpoint area once used for grazing and resting points for trekkers and livestock.

From here, the trail starts to feel more remote and enters the upper Himalayan trekking environment.

Entering Upper Modi Valley – Views of Bamboo and Dovan

As you continue, the trail enters the Upper Modi Valley, where the landscape becomes steeper and more dramatic.

From higher points along the route, you can see:

• Bamboo (lower valley settlements)
• Dovan village below
• Deep river gorges and dense forest slopes

This section marks a clear transition into high-altitude trekking terrain.

Dovan Section – River Crossings & Landslide Area

Beyond Dovan, the trail descends slightly before crossing a small stream and then climbs again across a landslide-prone section.

The path here is rugged but scenic, with waterfalls and rocky terrain adding adventure to the journey.

Temple with Shiva Trident – Spiritual Trail Point

Along the way, you pass a small Hindu shrine decorated with Shiva’s Trident (Trishul) and flowers.

This sacred spot is often used by trekkers and locals for blessings and protection before continuing into higher Himalayan regions.

Arrival at Himalayan Hotel (2,840m)

After about 20 minutes of walking from the temple area, you reach:

Himalaya Hotel (Annapurna region lodge area)

Located at approximately 2,840 meters, this area sits above a deep gorge and is surrounded by steep cliffs, forested slopes, and misty mountain scenery.

Here you:

1. Rest at a teahouse lodge
2. Experience colder alpine conditions
3. Prepare for the next ascent toward higher base camp regions

Summary

• Trek: Sinuwa → Kuldi Ghar (2,470m)
• Valley: Upper Modi Valley (views of Bamboo & Dovan)
• Terrain: River crossing + landslide section
• Spiritual point: Shiva trident temple area
• End point: Himalaya Hotel (2,840m)

Today’s trek is a powerful transition into the high Himalayan wilderness, where forests give way to deep gorges, sacred sites, and dramatic mountain landscapes leading toward Annapurna Base Camp.

Today is the most rewarding and emotional day of your entire trek as you reach the ultimate destination—Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), deep inside the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Himalaya Hotel to Hinko Cave – Entering Alpine Wilderness

The day begins with a gradual ascent from the Himalaya Hotel through beautiful bamboo and rhododendron forests. As altitude increases, the vegetation becomes thinner and the landscape more rugged.

You trek toward:

Hinku Cave (Himalayan trekking area)

This section offers a dramatic change in scenery, with steep valley walls, icy streams, and increasingly open mountain views.

Arrival at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)

Continuing upward, you reach the stunning alpine plateau of:

Machhapuchhre Base Camp

At around 3,700 meters, this is a major milestone of the trek.

Here you are surrounded by towering Himalayan giants, including:

• Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain)
• Annapurna South
• Hiunchuli
• Glacier-fed valleys and snow slopes

This is a perfect rest point before the final push to Annapurna Base Camp.

Final Ascent to Annapurna Base Camp

From Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the trail continues for approximately 2 hours of steady uphill walking through alpine terrain.

As you move forward, the landscape becomes increasingly spectacular—wide glacier valleys open up and snow-covered peaks surround you on all sides.

Arrival at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)

Finally, you arrive at the legendary destination:

Annapurna Base Camp

Located at 4,130 meters, ABC sits in a natural amphitheater of some of the world’s highest mountains.

What Makes ABC Special:

1. 360-degree panoramic Himalayan views
2. Surrounded by Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre
3. Glacier basin setting inside the Annapurna Sanctuary
4. One of the most iconic trekking destinations in Nepal

The feeling of standing at the base of these massive peaks is both powerful and unforgettable.

Summary

• Start: Himalaya Hotel
• Key stop: Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
• Final climb: ~2 hours to ABC
• Destination: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
• Highlight: 360° Himalayan panorama inside the Sanctuary

Today’s trek is the pinnacle of your journey—entering the heart of the Annapurna Himalayas, where glaciers, towering peaks, and silence create one of the most breathtaking mountain experiences in the world.

After reaching Annapurna Base Camp, today begins your gradual return journey through the Annapurna Sanctuary, retracing your steps through dramatic mountain landscapes and forested valleys.

Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp – A Magical Morning

You wake up early at the base camp to experience one of the most unforgettable moments of the trek—stargazing before sunrise, followed by the first golden light over the Himalayas.

Annapurna Base Camp

The early morning atmosphere is peaceful and surreal, with towering peaks slowly glowing as the sun rises over the Annapurna massif. It is widely considered one of the highlights of the entire trekking experience.

After enjoying the views, you have breakfast at the guesthouse surrounded by panoramic mountain scenery.

Descent Begins: ABC to Bamboo

After breakfast, you begin your descent from Annapurna Base Camp, retracing the trail through alpine landscapes and glacier valleys.

The route gradually leads back through:

• Machhapuchhre Base Camp area
• Himalayan Hotel section
• Dense bamboo and rhododendron forests

As you descend, the air becomes warmer, and vegetation becomes denser.

Arrival at Bamboo (1,700m Approx.)

You reach:

Bamboo

A small and peaceful hamlet located along the banks of the Modi Khola River, Bamboo is surrounded by dense forest and steep valley walls.

What to Expect in Bamboo:

• Simple teahouse accommodation
• Quiet riverside environment
• Dense bamboo forest surroundings
• Rest stop after a long descending trek

It is an ideal place to relax and recover after the high-altitude experience at ABC.

Summary

• Morning highlight: Sunrise & stargazing at ABC
• Trek: Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo
• Terrain: Glacier valleys → forest descent
• Overnight: Bamboo (riverside settlement)
• Location: Along the Modi Khola valley

Today’s journey offers a beautiful contrast—leaving the high Himalayan amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp and returning through lush forests and river valleys, gradually reconnecting with the lower Annapurna landscape.

Today marks the final trekking day in the Annapurna region, combining a scenic descent through forest trails with a relaxing natural hot spring experience before returning to Pokhara.

Bamboo to Chhomrong – Returning Through Familiar Trails

The day begins with a gradual descent from Bamboo, retracing your steps through peaceful forest paths along the Modi Khola valley.

You follow the familiar route back toward:

• Sinuwa
• Chhomrong Khola valley section
• Chhomrong village

The trail offers a mix of stone steps, forest walkways, and beautiful hillside scenery as you move lower in altitude.

Forest Walk Through Bamboo & Rhododendron Trails

From Chhomrong, the trail continues downward through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests, passing small settlements and a sheep farm along the way.

This section is peaceful and scenic, with:

• River sounds from below
• Green forest canopy
• Traditional hillside farming landscapes
• Arrival at Jhinu Hot Springs (1,780m)

You reach:

Jhinu Danda Hot Springs

A natural geothermal hot spring located beside the Modi Khola River.

Experience at the Hot Springs:

• Natural warm water pools
• Soothing relief for tired muscles
• Beautiful river and forest surroundings
• Perfect place to relax after trekking

A short walk downhill leads you to the riverside pools, where you can soak and unwind, letting your body recover from days of trekking in the Himalayas.

Drive from Jhinu to Pokhara

After enjoying the hot springs, you continue your journey back to Pokhara via jeep or vehicle transfer from the roadhead.

The drive offers scenic views of hills, rivers, and rural landscapes before arriving back in the lakeside city.

Pokhara

Arrival in Pokhara – End of Trek

Once in Pokhara, you check into your hotel and enjoy the comfort of city life again. The evening is free for rest, lakeside walks, or celebrating the completion of your Annapurna Base Camp journey.

Summary

• Trek: Bamboo → Chhomrong → Jhinu Hot Springs
• Trail: Forests, villages, sheep farms, stone steps
• Highlight: Natural hot spring relaxation at Jhinu
• Drive: Jhinu → Pokhara
• End point: Pokhara (lakeside city)

Today beautifully combines soft trekking, natural healing hot springs, and a scenic return to Pokhara, marking the relaxing conclusion of your Annapurna adventure.

After completing your Himalayan journey, today is a relaxed Pokhara sightseeing tour, designed to explore the city’s natural beauty, spiritual sites, and cultural landmarks.

The tour begins after breakfast, offering a comfortable and refreshing experience after days in the mountains.

Phewa Lake & Barahi Temple

The first stop is the iconic heart of Pokhara:

Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake is the second-largest lake in Nepal and the most famous attraction in Pokhara. The calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

In the middle of the lake lies:

Tal Barahi Temple

This small but important Hindu temple is dedicated to the Goddess Barahi and can be reached by a short boat ride. It is a significant spiritual site and a popular pilgrimage destination.

Devi’s Fall – Natural Water Wonder

Next, you visit:

Devi’s Fall

This powerful waterfall disappears into an underground tunnel, creating a unique and dramatic natural phenomenon. It is especially impressive during the monsoon season when water flow is strong.

Gupteshwor Cave – Sacred Underground Temple

Opposite Devi’s Fall is:

Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave

This sacred limestone cave houses a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Inside, you will find:

• Natural rock formations
• Underground pathways
• A view of Devi’s Fall from inside the cave

It combines spirituality with natural beauty.

Museums – Himalayan Culture & History

Pokhara also offers informative cultural experiences through its museums, including displays of:

• Himalayan mountaineering history
• Ethnic culture of Nepal
• Flora, fauna, and geology of the Annapurna region

A visit here helps you better understand the mountains you have just trekked through.

Tibetan Refugee Camp

The final stop is a visit to a Tibetan refugee settlement, where you can explore:

• Traditional Tibetan handicrafts
• Carpet weaving centers
• Local monasteries
• Cultural shops and souvenir markets

It offers insight into Tibetan culture and resilience in Nepal.

Summary of Pokhara City Tour

• Phewa Lake & Barahi Temple (boat ride & spirituality)
• Devi’s Fall (natural waterfall attraction)
• Gupteshwor Cave (sacred underground temple)
• Museums (culture & Himalayan history)
• Tibetan Refugee Camp (culture & handicrafts)

Final Experience

This Pokhara city tour is a perfect post-trek relaxation day, blending nature, spirituality, and cultural discovery. It allows you to unwind while experiencing the best attractions of Nepal’s most beautiful lakeside city.