Annapurna Base Camp Trek 10 days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Overview

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: A Himalayan Sanctuary Trek is arguably one of the most iconic and rewarding treks in the Nepal Himalaya. Often described as a "Annapurna sanctuary," the trail leads you deep into a glacial amphitheater, culminating at the very foot of the world's 10th highest peak, Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m). Imagine waking up surrounded by a 360-degree panorama of towering peaks like the pristine Machhapuchhare (Fishtail 6997m), Hiunchuli (6434m), and Annapurna South (7219m), Annapurna III (7555) all reflecting the golden hues of sunrise.
This trek is perfectly achievable in about a week, but its moderate difficulty and incredible diversity make it easy to extend and explore side trails at your own pace. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or an enthusiastic beginner, the journey to Annapurna Base Camp is an unforgettable experience.

Detailed Annappurna Base camp Trek Itinerary

Here is a day-by-day breakdown of the classic Annapurna Base Camp trek. Please note that itineraries can be customized based on your schedule and preferences.

Day 01: Pokhara to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Drive: Pokhara to New Bridge (1,340m) via Birethanti (approx. 1.5-2 hours).
Trek: New Bridge to Chhomrong (approx. 4-5 hours).
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara along the Beni Highway, following the Modi River. After registering your permits at the checkpost in Birethanti, you'll continue to New Bridge, the true starting point of your trek. Crossing a dramatic suspension bridge, the trail gently ascends to Jinu Danda, a perfect spot for your first trekking lunch. After lunch, a steady 2-3 hour climb through rhododendron forests brings you to the beautiful Gurung village of Chhomrong, offering your first breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Overnight in a local guesthouse.

Day 02: Chhomrong to Dovan (2,520m) Trek: Approx. 6-7 hours.
Wake up to a spectacular sunrise over the peaks from your guesthouse window. After breakfast, descend the stone stairs to the Chhomrong Khola (river) , cross the suspension bridge, and begin the uphill climb through Lower Sinuwa and then the steep ascent to Upper Sinuwa. This section offers incredible forest scenery. After lunch in Upper Sinuwa, the trail eases as you walk through bamboo and rhododendron forests to the village of Bamboo (2,310m) . A final hour of walking along the Modi River valley brings you to your overnight stop, Dovan.
Note: Keep an eye out for wildlife like monkeys, langurs, and a variety of colorful birds. During the summer monsoon, be prepared for leeches on the trail.

Day 03: Dovan to Deurali (3,230m)
Trek: Approx. 4-5 hours.
After breakfast, the trail climbs steadily for about an hour to the sacred Baraha Temple (Punjeham Baraha). From here, a steeper, 2-hour ascent leads you to the Himalaya Hotel (2,920m), a cluster of lodges where you'll stop for lunch. The trail then continues for another 1.5 hours, following the river valley into a narrower gorge, eventually arriving at the scenic village of Deurali. Be aware that the section just before Deurali can be an avalanche risk area in winter/spring, so it's important to check conditions and follow your guide's advice.

Day 04: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) Trek: Approx. 5-6 hours.
Via: Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC, 3,700m)
Today is the highlight! After breakfast, you'll cross the Modi River twice as you leave the treeline behind and enter a high alpine landscape. A 1.5-hour climb brings you to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) , where you'll have lunch with incredible close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna III, and Gangapurna. The final 2-hour trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a gradual ascent along a glacial moraine, with the mountains growing larger with every step. Arriving at ABC is a truly emotional moment—you are standing in a natural amphitheater of ice and rock, surrounded by giants. Spend the evening exploring and soaking in the atmosphere.
Note: You are now above the treeline. It is essential to walk slowly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body to manage the altitude. Guesthouse space at ABC is limited, so be prepared to share a room.

Day 05: Annapurna Base Camp to Dovan (2,520m) Trek: Approx. 5-6 hours.
This is the day for an unforgettable sunrise. Wake up early to witness the first rays of sun ignite the peaks surrounding you: the mighty Annapurna I (8,091m) , Singu Chuli, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. After a hearty breakfast and a last look at the mountains, you'll begin your descent, retracing your steps down the same trail with constant, breathtaking views. You'll descend all the way back to Dovan for the night.

Day 06: Dovan to Chhomrong (2,170m) Trek: Approx. 6-7 hours.
Enjoy breakfast and continue your descent through the lush forests to Bamboo. From here, it's a climb back up to Upper Sinuwa, where you'll stop for lunch. In the afternoon, you'll descend the steep stone steps to cross the Chhomrong Khola and make the final climb back into the village of Chhomrong. (Alternatively, you can detour to Jinu Danda for another soak in the hot springs). Enjoy your last night in the mountains at your favorite guesthouse.

Day 07: Chhomrong to Pokhara
Trek: Chhomrong to New Bridge (approx. 3-4 hours).
Drive: New Bridge to Pokhara (approx. 2 hours).
Enjoy one final mountain breakfast before making your way down to New Bridge. Your private jeep will be waiting to transfer you back to the lakeside city of Pokhara. Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved shower and a relaxing afternoon. In the evening, we highly recommend inviting your trekking guide and porter to a farewell dinner. It's a wonderful opportunity to thank your team for their invaluable support and share stories from the trail. (Tipping your crew is a customary way to show your appreciation).

Essential Information for Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Food & Accommodation
Accommodation: You'll stay in simple but welcoming tea houses (guesthouses) along the entire route. They offer basic rooms, usually with foam mattresses and pillows. Blankets are provided, but a sleeping bag is recommended for extra warmth.
Food: Guesthouses have a standard menu approved by the local lodge management committee, ensuring quality and fair prices. You can enjoy a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and Western dishes (pasta, pancakes, soups). A wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available in the lower regions. Above the Himalaya Hotel, local customs mean that meat is not served, so you'll find excellent egg and vegetable dishes.

Difficulty & Preparation
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered moderate. The main challenge is not the altitude but the numerous stone steps—you will be going up and down every day. A reasonable level of fitness is required. The golden rule is to follow your own pace. Start early, take your time, and you'll have a much more enjoyable experience.

Best Season to Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The trail is open year-round, but the best times are:
Spring (March-May): The hillsides burst into color with blooming rhododendrons, and the weather is warm with clear skies.
Autumn (September-November): Offers crystal-clear mountain views, stable weather, and pleasant temperatures.
Winter (December-February): Can be very cold, especially at ABC (dropping to -20°C or lower). Snowfall can make the trail challenging and increase avalanche risk.
Summer/Monsoon (June-August): Trails can be slippery and muddy. Leeches are prevalent in the lush, wet forests, and river crossings require caution. It's less crowded, but you must be prepared.

Guides, Porters & Safety
Our team at Alpine Asian Treks consists of experienced, government-licensed trekking guides and professional porters. They are not only there to carry your bag but to ensure your safety, provide cultural insights, and enhance your overall experience. You can trek with complete peace of mind.
Health, Altitude & Safety

Nepal Trekking equipment: 

Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are extremely limited or non-existent above Chhomrong. You must bring a personal first-aid kit including any regular medications, plus basics for headaches, stomach upsets, diarrhea, pain, colds, blisters, and altitude sickness (like Diamox). Consult your doctor before your trip.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): Trekking above 3,000m carries a risk of AMS. Prevention is key:
Ascend slowly: Follow the "walk high, sleep low" principle.
Hydrate: Drink at least 3-4 liters of water per day.
Listen to your body: If you have a persistent headache, nausea, or dizziness, do not ascend. The only real cure is to descend immediately.

Emergency Rescue: In an emergency, local horses can be arranged to transport you down. For serious cases, helicopter rescue is available (at your own expense). We strongly advise you to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 5,000m) and emergency helicopter evacuation.

More Than Just a Trek to ABC 
People & Culture
The Modi River Valley is the traditional homeland of the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups. These communities are renowned for their bravery, with a long history of service in the British and Indian Gurkha regiments. They are warm, welcoming people with a rich culture and traditions. They practice a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism, and their villages, with their stone houses and prayer flags, are a cultural highlight of the trek.
Nature & Wildlife
The trail passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal's largest protected area, boasting incredible biodiversity.
Plants & Vegetation: You'll trek through lush subtropical forests of bamboo and rhododendron, ascending into temperate zones with oaks and maples, and finally reaching the alpine tundra of the high Himalayas. The park is also home to numerous medicinal plants.
Animals & Birds: Keep your eyes peeled! The area is a habitat for over 100 species of mammals and 500 species of birds. You might spot the Himalayan Thar, playful langur monkeys, and colorful pheasants (including the national bird, the Danfe). With incredible luck, you could see a snow leopard or red panda, but more common sightings include eagles, vultures, and the tiny, beautiful wren.
A Glimpse into History
Trekking in the Annapurna region began in the 1970s, following the first successful ascent of Annapurna I's summit in 1950 by the French climbers Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal. What was once a route for pilgrims heading to the sacred lake of Muktinath is now one of the most beloved trekking destinations on Earth.
Trekking Options & Extensions
The Annapurna Base Camp trek can be easily combined with other adventures:
Combine it with the classic Poon Hill trek for a sunrise view over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range.
Extend your trip to include a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park.
Add on a white-water rafting adventure.
Combine it with the Mardi Himal Trek for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Email us with your interests and available time, and our tour manager will help you design the perfect itinerary.
Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara
We can recommend hotels to suit your style and budget in both cities. If you are looking for a quiet, clean, and family-run atmosphere in Kathmandu, we highly recommend Green Eco Resort—a perfect place to relax before or after your trek.
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Contact us today to book your Annapurna Base Camp Trek!