Before you set out on your 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it’s crucial to have an idea of what to expect in terms of altitude, logistics, and overall experience.
To give you a detailed idea of how high the Annapurna Base Camp is, how to reach ABC, and the best time of the year to embark on the journey, below is some of the information.
How high is the Annapurna Base Camp?
Situated at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) above sea level, Annapurna Base Camp is a place with a lower oxygen level, thinner atmosphere, and colder temperatures.
Even though the trek to Annapurna Base Camp itself is not a technical climb, the altitude can cause altitude sickness if you rush the climb or skip proper acclimatization.
However, if we are to compare the Annapurna trek to Base Camp with other high-altitude journeys like Everest or passes such as Thorong La, the ABC trek stays at a relatively lower altitude, reducing the risk of serious altitude sickness.
As our package is a 10 days itinerary that takes you through the rich ecosystem of the region to the Annapurna Base Camp guided by some of the best local guides, rest assured that you will have a safe and enjoyable trip.
How to reach the Annapurna Base Camp?
Unlike other high-altitude treks, getting to the Annapurna base camp is quite straightforward. You first have to reach the hub of adventure, Pokhara, from where your hiking journey officially begins.
There are two primary ways to reach Pokhara. You can either drive, which is included in our 10 days itinerary, or take a flight that will provide you with some extra time to explore Pokhara.
If you choose to go by road, then it takes around 6-7 hours by bus ride, and if you fly, then it is only a 20-minute flight.
Once you arrive in Pokhara, we drive to Sauli Bazaar from where the walk begins. The total trekking days are 6 days as you pass through villages like Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching ABC and back.
For those who prefer a different, faster return, we have our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Return by Helicopter 8 Days package offering the best of both, a classic trek in, followed by a beautiful heli out.
Contact us at any time for personal customization and book a spot on the Annapurna adventure that suits you best.
When is the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
Choosing the right season is crucial for you to have the best Himalayan experience. Although it’s possible to trek to Annapurna Base Camp throughout the year, the absolute best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
Durin spring, the weather is mild and skies are usually clear, offering stunning views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding peaks. The daytime temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C in the lower altitudes, while higher altitudes near base camp can drop close to -5°C to 5°C at night.
Another highlight of trekking in spring is the vibrant bloom of rhododendrons and wildflowers all along the trail.
Autumn is another perfect time for the Annapurna trek to base camp. With crisp, stable weather, clear mountain vistas, and excellent visibility for photography, the daytime temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 18°C, with cooler nights at higher altitudes. Plus, autumn coincides with Nepal’s biggest festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering you a unique cultural experience.
If you are planning to embark on our 10 days Annapurna Base Camp trek in winter or monsoon, we can totally do that too. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
In winter (December to February), temperatures can drop to -10°C or lower near base camp, and heavy snow can occasionally block trails. In the monsoon season (June to August), the rain can cause slippery trails, leeches, and occasional landslides, and views are often obscured by clouds.
Whether you prefer the vibrant flowers of spring, the festive spirit and clear skies of autumn, the quiet snowscapes of winter, or the vivid greenery of the monsoon, we customize the Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary to match your time and interests.
Book the trip now and contact us anytime for personalized advice on the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp based on your comfort level and preferred experiences.
How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary?
Our Nepal Trek to Annapurna Base Camp is an easy to moderate trek, making it one of Nepal's most accessible high-altitude treks.
Considerably less strenuous than expeditions such as the EBC Trek and Annapurna circuit, this 10 days trek to the Annapurna Base Camp involves 5–6 hours of walking per day on stone staircases, forest trails, and steep uphill and downhill climbs.
Most of the trekkers complete the journey without any problem, but there can be some who have a hard time because of the altitude. Since the highest point you'll be hiking to is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
With the support of our expert guides, anyone with a good fitness level can complete the 10 days journey to the Annapurna Base Camp despite some difficulty that might arise along the way due to the elevation.
Elevation Profile and Terrain on trek
Unlike some treks where there is steady height gain, this 10 days Annapurna Base Camp trekking frequently dips and climbs, giving you a relief before you climb higher again. This up-and-down nature is part of what makes our Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary so beautiful.
The trek begins as low as 800–1,000 meters in Pokhara and climbs quickly through lush mid-hill forests. By the time you reach Chhomrong (2,170 meters), you'll be feeling the cooler mountain air and steeper uphill and downhill climbs on stone stairs.
From Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), the trail can feel more arduous due to thinner air and steeper slopes. From MBC (3,700 meters), it's a final ascent to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, which is surrounded by a 360-degree wall of giant peaks.
The terrain itself transforms from dense subtropical forests to bamboo groves, river valleys, rocky moraines, and snow-covered alpine meadows. Trails can be wet and slippery during monsoon, or icy in winter, and require careful negotiation.
Our 10 days itinerary is carefully crafted, making sure you have enough time to adjust to the gaining elevation and are able to navigate the changing terrain.
Can Beginners Do ABC Trek?
One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is: Is the ABC trek suitable for beginners? The simple answer is: Yes, but with training and realistic expectations.
The trek's moderate difficulty makes it feasible for healthy beginners, though it's far from a Sunday walk. If you’re new to multi-day trekking, you’ll need to be ready for daily walks of 5 to 6 hours, sometimes up steep stone staircases, and coping with changing weather conditions.
Advanced pre-training, like regular cardio workouts, stair climbing, or rehearsal hiking, will be a great help for beginners. Mental preparation is also necessary. If you are looking for an easier option in the Annapurna region with the same amount of scenic nature and rich culture, then you can check out our Poonhill trek or Mardi Himal trek.
Despite these challenges, beginners who trek with Himalayan Recreation benefit from experienced guides who pace the journey carefully, provide daily health monitoring, and adjust plans to your comfort level.
How Himalayan Recreation Support for Different Fitness Levels on trek?
We at Himalayan Recreation believe that the Hike to Annapurna Base Camp is an experience that anyone must try, whether you are an avid hiker or a first-time trekker.
We have designed our services to accommodate trekkers of all fitness levels, with safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Our customized itineraries are suited to your interests and pace. In case you are super fit and would like to have a faster trek, for example, we have shorter itineraries like the Short ABC Hike 5 Days.
For those who would like to take it easy, we divide the distance into more days, reduce daily walking hours, and allow plenty of time to rest and acclimatize.
Our guides are trained in altitude sickness prevention, first aid, and emergency evacuation procedures. They monitor your health daily and alter plans if required.
If anyone feels unwell, we can arrange extra rest days or even a helicopter evacuation as a final option. Your safety is our top priority.
How to Prepare for a Safe and Successful Annapurna Base Camp Trekking?
Planning is the secret to turning your Annapurna Base Camp trek Nepal into a lifetime experience. Conditioning your body and mind is necessary to remain safe and enjoy every second on the trail.
Start by properly researching the trail. Learn the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp trek elevation profile, weather, and distances per day. Understand potential hazards like altitude sickness so that you can make informed decisions and be aware of early warning signs.
At Himalayan Recreation, we provide you with extensive briefings and personalized advice before your trek so that you know what to expect. Another important factor is understanding your physical ability and taking the journey at your own pace.
Finally, trekking with an experienced local operator like Himalayan Recreation plays a crucial part in preparing for your adventure tour ahead.
How Can I Get Fit for the ABC Hike?
Our 10 days ABC Hike isn't an achievement for competitive athletes, but you'll need to be healthy enough to withstand days of trekking, ascending steep slopes, and thinner air at high altitude.
To have a comfortable and easy journey, you can start building your cardiovascular endurance. As the trek involves many stone staircases, stair climbing or a stair machine is excellent training.
Condition the leg, core, and back muscles to prepare for the ups and downs of the trail, as well as backpacking. Squats, lunges, step-ups, and planks are all excellent exercises for trekking preparation.
Also, don’t overlook practice hikes. Spend weekends carrying a loaded backpack on hilly or uneven terrain to simulate real trekking conditions. This helps toughen your muscles, test your gear, and build confidence in handling varied surfaces similar to the Annapurna Base Camp trek terrain.
At Himalayan Recreation, we’re happy to provide personalized fitness guidance. If you are an experienced trekker or a newbie, we can help you gauge your fitness level and recommend practical training suggestions.
What essential gear should I pack Nepal trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
It is crucial for a safe, comfortable, and successful Nepal trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
At Himalayan Recreation, we maintain a maximum luggage limit of 12 kg per person for your porter to carry. Two trekkers share one porter, so we help balance the weight fairly.
Further, we provide you with a duffel bag, high-quality sleeping bag free of charge for use during your trek. Below is the detailed packing list for your reference:
- Clothing: -Baselayer -Insulation layer -Third layer
- General Trekking gear -Trekking trousers and shirts -Trekking shorts -Waterproof shell jacket and trousers -Underwear
- Headwear -Hat -Beanie -Neck gaiter
- Handwear and Footwear -Inner Gloves -Outer insulated gloves -Hiking boots -Trekking shoes/sandals -Hiking socks -Warm thermal socks -Gaiters
- Bag and backpackers -Duffel bag -Backpack -Day back -Raincover -Drybag
- Sleeping gear -Sleeping bag -Liner -Earplugs
- Poles and Headgear -Trekking poles -Sunglasses and headlights
- Important accessories -Water bottle/Hydration bladder -Towel -Pee funnel -Lock -Waterproof bag
- Extra accessories -Camera -Portable charger, books, cards, passport, money
- Medications and Toiletries: Water purification tablet, Isotonic powder, Diamox, Common Medications, First aid kit, Sunscreen, Baby wipes, Toiletries, Plasters, Oximeter, Hand Sanitizer
Anything unnecessary for the trail, like city clothes, extra luggage, or valuables, can be safely stored at your Kathmandu hotel or Himalayan Recreation office at no extra cost.
Do I Need Travel Insurance for Hike and What Should It Cover?
Yes, Travel Insurance is one of the essential elements when embarking on any trip in the Himalayas.
Although our Annapurna Base Camp trip is a moderate-grade trek, it still includes walking on rugged terrain with potential altitude sickness and other unpredictable possibilities. Thus, having travel insurance is a non-negotiable factor.
In selecting travel insurance for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp, ensure your policy has:
- Helicopter evacuation coverage up to 4000 meters
- Accident and illness coverage
If you're unsure, we’re happy to guide you on the best providers for the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp Hike.
What is Trekking Safety & Altitude Sickness Management During the Hiking?
What Is AMS and What Are the Symptoms?
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the body’s reaction to the lower oxygen levels at higher elevations, which can affect anyone, even experienced trekkers. On the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp hike, where you’ll reach elevations over 4000 meters, the symptoms of AMS are often mild and manageable.
Typical symptoms include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath at rest
- Disturbed sleep
It's crucial to notice these symptoms early during your Annapurna Base Camp 10 days journey. The trick is not to ascend higher if symptoms appear, and never try to "tough out" AMS. Let your guides know immediately if you notice any symptoms, as our guides are specially trained to monitor AMS and take swift action if there are any symptoms.
How Himalayan Recreation Keeps You Safe During the ABC Trekking?
Your safety is our top priority on any trips that you take with us. Our guides at Himalayan Recreation are high-altitude first aid trained and have years of experience leading the Nepal ABC Trekking.
Here's how we ensure your Annapurna Base Camp Trek Package is as safe as it is unforgettable:
Our 10 days Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary is designed thoughtfully, making sure you gain only a few hundred meters elevation each day. This helps your body adjust safely to altitude, reducing the risk of AMS.
Our guides conduct daily health assessments during the Annapurna Base Camp trekking, where they check oxygen saturation levels, ask about symptoms, and decide if you’re fit to continue. If you're unwell, we'll alter your schedule or pace straight away. Your safety always comes first.
We employ communications equipment to coordinate quick responses to any situation arising during your Nepal Annapurna Base Camp trek.
What Happens in an Emergency or if Evacuation Is Needed during the trekking?
Even with careful planning, sometimes emergencies do happen during the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp trek. For such situations, our guides carry a comprehensive first-aid kit and are well trained to treat AMS or other symptoms of illness on the trail.
In the event of evacuation, Himalayan Recreation can arrange a helicopter rescue to anywhere on the Annapurna Base Camp trekking route to bring you prompt medical attention in Kathmandu. This is why you need to secure travel insurance, as without insurance, emergency evacuation would cost a hefty amount.
Do I need a guide and a porter for the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking?
Yes, it is strongly recommended to have a guide and porter for the trek to the Annapurna Base Camp.
Although well-marked, traveling alone on the route may be challenging, especially at higher altitudes or during erratic weather conditions. A trained guide provides safety, provides valuable commentary on culture and the natural world, and manages logistics like accommodation and permits.
Having a porter allows you to bring only a daypack, keeping your trek much simpler and less likely to make you tired or injured. Your porter will carry up to 12 kg of your load (per two trekkers), so you can spend more time enjoying the experience, scenery, and camera taking instead of the pack on your back.
When you book your Annapurna Base Camp Trek Nepal with Himalayan Recreation, you are equipped with guides who have experience, are licensed, and possess high-altitude first aid training for a secure and memorable trek.
Do I Have to Give Tips to the Guide and Porter?
Tipping is not mandatory, but yes, it is customary and a heartfelt way to show gratitude for the hard work of your guides and porters.
Typically, trekkers tip about 10–15% of their total trip budget, depending on the quality of service and personal satisfaction. Our team goes the extra mile to make your Annapurna Base Camp trek, and tipping is a meaningful way to thank them for their dedication and care.
Remember, the amount is entirely up to you and can be adjusted based on your experience.
How Do You Get Around? Transport Tips Every Trekker Needs to Know
For your Annapurna Base Camp Trek, we arrange convenient and secure modes of transport to provide a smooth ride for you all along. There are two ways you can go around, as mentioned earlier: By bus and by plane at an extra cost
The most common way of getting to the beginning point of the trek is by tourist bus or shared jeep from Kathmandu to Pokhara, with a scenic drive through Nepal's beautiful countryside. From Pokhara, you will take private transportation that brings you closer to the trailhead.
If you would rather save time or appreciate stunning scenery from the air, you can opt for a flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu. Flights are approximately 20 minutes long and cost approximately USD 110 per person one way, which is a fast choice for trekkers who are short on time.
Whichever mode of transportation you decide to use, whether flights or road, we will organize all your transport for your Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal so you can have a comfortable time.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like on the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Each day on the Nepal Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a beautiful mix of adventure, comfort, and discovery. The day starts as you wake up around the green hills and mountains and have a hearty breakfast.
As you set out to your next destination, the trail offers you pretty scenery, vibrant villages, and culture. You will have lunch each day during the hike at one of the stops along the way.
After 5-6 hours of walking, you will arrive at your destination of the day and take a much-needed rest after having dinner to refuel yourself for another day of hiking tomorrow.
Every day during the trek to Annapurna Base Camp Nepal brings new views, cultural encounters, and rewarding hiking experiences.
How is Accommodation during the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Holiday?
On our Annapurna Base Camp Trek package, you’ll spend five nights in comfortable lodges or hotels, mostly in twin-sharing rooms. At popular stops like Chomrong, and Jhinu Danda, many lodges offer private bathrooms with hot showers for added comfort.
In higher or more remote places such as Himalayan, ABC, and Bamboo, you’ll stay in standard rooms with shared facilities, which are clean and cozy but more basic due to the altitude and remoteness.
At the beginning and end of your adventure, you’ll enjoy four nights in three-star hotels in Pokhara and Kathmandu, where you’ll have modern comforts like 24-hour hot water, television, and laundry services perfect for relaxing after your trek.
Charging Facilities
Most tea houses have electricity (solar or generator) where mobile phones, cameras, and power banks may be charged for a small fee (USD 2–3 per item). We suggest you bring a portable power bank, especially to high altitudes where electricity is limited.
For more advanced facilities during the trek, you can choose to do our Luxury Annapurna Base Camp trek that includes luxurious accommodation and facilities while still offering you the adventure of hiking to the Annapurna Base Camp.
What to Expect Your Food on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Your 10 days Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Package includes three full meals a day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner that are designed to sustain you during your trek.
The package include three cup of tea, you can have tea with each meal for warmth and to keep you hydrated. Although you will be provided with a variety of foods, vegetarian food is strongly recommended for better digestion and cleanliness in high altitudes. however how ABC trek packages does not include the drinking water, but we can provde you water purification tablets and our guie will help you to fill the water bottel as pr your requrimetns.
Below are the food options you will get for your breakfast, lunch, and dinner:
Breakfast
- Tibetan bread with honey or jam
- Porridge
- Pancakes or cornflakes
- Toast with eggs (fried, boiled, scrambled, or omelet)
- Chapati with honey
- Tea or coffee
Lunch
- Dal Bhat (Nepal’s traditional rice, lentils, and vegetables)
- Fried noodles or pasta
- Sherpa stew (thukpa)
- Fried rice with eggs or vegetables
- A hot cup of tea
Dinner
- Dal Bhat
- Vegetable momos (dumplings)
- Soups (garlic, vegetable, noodle)
- Pizza (simple varieties in larger villages)
- Pasta dishes
- A hot cup of tea
All food is freshly prepared and filling, providing you with the energy needed on our Nepal Annapurna Base Camp trek. Remember that food choices slowly reduce as you ascend higher in elevation.
At Himalayan Recreation, we recommend carrying purification methods to save money and reduce plastic waste. You can also get boiled water at the lodges you stay at an extra cost if you prefer hot water.
Extra Expenses during the Annapurna Base Camp trekking
Our Annapurna Base Camp trek package covers almost everything you need during the journey. However, it is important to have some extra cash with you.
Extra expenses can go on hot showers, which cost USD 2-3 extra, charging your electronics, and wifi access. Apart from that, if you want some extra snacks, soft drinks, or want to buy souvenirs, then extra expenses are required.
So, we always recommend carrying some extra cash in Nepali rupees.
ABC Trekking Permits and Entry Eequirements
We handel all the required permits for your 10 days Annapurna Base Camp Tour, you’ll need two key permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): It costs approximately USD 30 per person for foreign nationals and USD 10 per person for SAARC nationals.
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: It costs approximately USD 20 per person for foreign nationals and USD 10 per person for SAARC nationals.
Both of these permits are included in the cost of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek package when you travel with Himalayan Recreation. Your guide will carry and handle your permits during the trek, doing all the checks along the way at various security posts.
How to Book the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Holiday for 2025 and 2026?
Booking your Annapurna Base Camp Trek holiday with Himalayan Recreation Treks is simple, secure, and tailored to your needs.
No matter the kind of trip you choose from a private trek, customization of dates, or one of our guaranteed group treks, we’ve made the process hassle-free and simple.
As a fully licensed operator registered with TAAN, NMA, and Nepal’s Department of Tourism, you can book your 10 days Annapurna Base Camp journey with us with complete confidence.
- Step 1 Choose Your Trekking Dates: Decide your preferred trekking dates, free to choose your travel date
- Step 2 Contact Us to Confirm Availability: Reach out to Himalayan Recreation via our website or WhatsApp to check trek availability and ask any questions you may have.
- Step 3: Reserve Your Spot: Once you confirm your trek, we’ll send you the booking form. You’ll need to fill in your details and passport copy.
- Step 4: Make a Deposit: A small advance payment (usually 20% of the total cost) is required to secure your spot. This can be paid via bank transfer, credit card, or online payment gateway.
- Step 5: Receive Booking Confirmation: After receiving your deposit, we’ll send you a confirmed itinerary, invoice, and essential trekking information to help you prepare.
- Last-Minute Booking: Available with 100% payment required at least 24 hours before departure, subject to availability.
If you find any confusion at the time of booking your dream holiday to Annapuran base camp in Nepal. Please fell free to reach outus anytime, our local ABC trek experts are avaiable 24 hours on your services.
