Annapurna Base Camp
Duration12 Days
CategoryIconic's Trek
GuideLed by Rajendra PudashainiSeasonspring · autumnHighlights
- Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,310m, surrounded 360° by the giants of the Himalaya
- Panoramic views of Annapurna I (8091m), the 10th highest summit in the world
- Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after the descent
- Visit to Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Immersion in Gurung culture and traditional mountain villages
Overview
Set off on an exceptional adventure to the heart of the Annapurna massif, one of the most emblematic treks in the Himalayas. This journey takes you to discover breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, where lush valleys, luxuriant forests and snow-capped summits exceeding 8,000 metres blend together. Live an authentic and memorable experience traversing traditional Gurung villages, admiring the architecture of slate-roofed houses and sharing the daily life of mountain inhabitants. From rice terraces to shimmering glaciers, each stage immerses you in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Himalayas.
Day by day
Itinerary
Day 01 : Kathmandu — Arrival at the Cradle of Nepal
Namaste! On arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by your private driver. You stroll through the lively alleys of Thamel, the central and tourist district of the capital, where traditional houses with sculpted wooden windows, Buddhist monasteries and colourful shops coexist. The spiritual atmosphere envelops you while smiling inhabitants go about their occupations. The streets smell of Newar cuisine and spices. Don't miss trying your first momos, these delicious Nepalese raviolis.
Day 01 : Kathmandu — Arrival at the Cradle of Nepal
Namaste! On arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, you are warmly welcomed by your private driver. You stroll through the lively alleys of Thamel, the central and tourist district of the capital, where traditional houses with sculpted wooden windows, Buddhist monasteries and colourful shops coexist. The spiritual atmosphere envelops you while smiling inhabitants go about their occupations. The streets smell of Newar cuisine and spices. Don't miss trying your first momos, these delicious Nepalese raviolis.
Day 02 : Kathmandu — Treasures of the Valley
Today, discover the emblematic sites of Kathmandu and its valley, listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Your guide takes you to visit the temple of Swayambunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, perched on a hill overlooking the valley. Admire the eyes of Buddha observing the four directions. Continue to Pashupatinath, the most sacred Hindu temple of Nepal. End with Boudhanath, one of the world's largest Buddhist stupas, where you turn the prayer mills following the Tibetan pilgrim ritual.
Day 02 : Kathmandu — Treasures of the Valley
Today, discover the emblematic sites of Kathmandu and its valley, listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Your guide takes you to visit the temple of Swayambunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, perched on a hill overlooking the valley. Admire the eyes of Buddha observing the four directions. Continue to Pashupatinath, the most sacred Hindu temple of Nepal. End with Boudhanath, one of the world's largest Buddhist stupas, where you turn the prayer mills following the Tibetan pilgrim ritual.
Day 03 : Kathmandu – Pokhara — Gateway to the Annapurnas
This morning, you take a spectacular domestic flight to Pokhara (820m), the gateway to the Annapurnas. During this short 25-minute flight, you fly over grandiose Himalayan landscapes and glimpse, on clear days, the snow-capped summits. On arrival, you discover this peaceful city nestled on the banks of Lake Phewa, with the majestic silhouette of the Machhapuchhre (6993m) as backdrop. Enjoy the afternoon to stroll along the lake, explore the lively Lakeside district.
Day 03 : Kathmandu – Pokhara — Gateway to the Annapurnas
This morning, you take a spectacular domestic flight to Pokhara (820m), the gateway to the Annapurnas. During this short 25-minute flight, you fly over grandiose Himalayan landscapes and glimpse, on clear days, the snow-capped summits. On arrival, you discover this peaceful city nestled on the banks of Lake Phewa, with the majestic silhouette of the Machhapuchhre (6993m) as backdrop. Enjoy the afternoon to stroll along the lake, explore the lively Lakeside district.
Day 04 : Pokhara – Nayapul – Ghandruk — First Steps in the Sanctuary
After breakfast, your driver takes you to Nayapul (1070m), the official starting point of your adventure in the Annapurna sanctuary. You begin your first day of walking following a trail that winds along the Modi Khola river, crossing suspension bridges and following rice terraces. The path climbs progressively through lush vegetation where bananas, bamboos and rhododendrons mingle. Arrive at Ghandruk (1940m), a magnificent traditional Gurung village, one of the most beautiful in the region, with spectacular views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Day 04 : Pokhara – Nayapul – Ghandruk — First Steps in the Sanctuary
After breakfast, your driver takes you to Nayapul (1070m), the official starting point of your adventure in the Annapurna sanctuary. You begin your first day of walking following a trail that winds along the Modi Khola river, crossing suspension bridges and following rice terraces. The path climbs progressively through lush vegetation where bananas, bamboos and rhododendrons mingle. Arrive at Ghandruk (1940m), a magnificent traditional Gurung village, one of the most beautiful in the region, with spectacular views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Day 05 : Ghandruk – Chhomrong — Between Forests and Summits
Today you leave Ghandruk for a varied day of walking alternating ascents and descents through changing Himalayan landscapes. The trail first descends toward the Kimrong Khola river which you cross on a suspension bridge, before beginning a regular climb through a dense forest of rhododendrons, the emblematic flower of Nepal. You cross charming hamlets where inhabitants cultivate millet and maize in terraces. Arrive at Chhomrong (2170m), a tiered village on the hillside with an unobstructed view of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.
Day 05 : Ghandruk – Chhomrong — Between Forests and Summits
Today you leave Ghandruk for a varied day of walking alternating ascents and descents through changing Himalayan landscapes. The trail first descends toward the Kimrong Khola river which you cross on a suspension bridge, before beginning a regular climb through a dense forest of rhododendrons, the emblematic flower of Nepal. You cross charming hamlets where inhabitants cultivate millet and maize in terraces. Arrive at Chhomrong (2170m), a tiered village on the hillside with an unobstructed view of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.
Interactive Map
Trek Route
This Expedition Is Led By Rajendra Pudashaini
Rajendra Pudashaini
Co-Director of the Agency
Born and raised in the Langtang Valley, in the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas, Rajendra grew up to the rhythm of the mountains, forests and traditions that shape this exceptional region. An experienc...
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