Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Route overview

Out-and-back trek from Nayapul through the Modi Khola valley into the Annapurna Sanctuary glacial basin at 4,130 m.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek follows well-established teahouse trails from Pokhara through the Modi Khola river valley and into the Annapurna Sanctuary, a glacially carved basin at approximately 4,130 metres surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas. The surrounding peaks include Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Gangapurna. The approach passes through terraced farmland and rhododendron forest in the lower sections, which provide spectacular colour in spring flowering season (March–April). The trail enters the sanctuary through a narrow gorge beneath the towering walls of the Annapurna massif, arriving at the base camp plateau surrounded on all sides by glaciated peaks. The route is served by a network of comfortable teahouses offering food, accommodation, and basic facilities at regular stops. Unlike the higher Thorong La crossing of the Annapurna Circuit, the ABC trek does not require crossing a high pass, making it more accessible to hikers without previous extreme altitude experience. A…

A classic Himalayan trek leading into the amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary, a high glacial basin surrounded by peaks exceeding 7,000 metres including Annapurna I, the tenth-highest mountain in the world.

Trail facts

Country

Nepal

Region

Annapurna Himalaya

Distance

c. 115 km

Typical duration

9–12 days

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

4,800 m

Best season

March–May and October–November

Trail type

Out-and-back

Access and logistics

Permits and access

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card are both required and available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Bookings

A guide or porter is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. Many hikers book locally in Pokhara. Teahouse meals and accommodation are available at all trail stops.

Safety context

Altitude sickness can occur above 3,500 m — acclimatise properly, follow ascend-slowly guidelines, and descend immediately if symptoms appear. The sanctuary gorge can accumulate avalanche debris in spring and after heavy snowfall.

The sanctuary approach gorge can be closed by avalanche risk in heavy winter snowfall. Teahouses fill quickly during peak season (October–November) — consider booking ahead or arriving early in the day.

Highlights

Rhododendron forest in spring flowering season Machhapuchhre Base Camp views Annapurna Sanctuary amphitheatre Annapurna I (8,091 m) close approach Sunrise on snow peaks from base camp Teahouse culture and local hospitality

Why find a buddy

Sharing the first sight of the Annapurna amphitheatre from the narrow entrance gorge — surrounded by glaciated walls on all sides — is one of the great moments of Himalayan trekking. It deserves company.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

Explore and prepare

Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.