Spring
Mar-MayRhododendron forests; lingering snow possible higher up.
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Nepal · Trekking · Moderate
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Starting from the Pokhara region, the trail climbs through traditional Gurung villages, dense forests and the Modi Khola valley before entering the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 metres.
Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding Himalayan journeys, combining dramatic mountain scenery with forests, traditional villages and high-altitude landscapes. The trail winds through the Annapurna region before entering the spectacular natural amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Along the way, trekkers pass through traditional Gurung villages, dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, and stay in welcoming Himalayan teahouses scattered along the route. As the trail climbs higher, the views open up to reveal Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna massif, with the mountains growing more impressive with every stage of the trek.
The journey culminates at Annapurna Base Camp at around 4,130 metres, where towering peaks surround the valley on almost every side. The return route often passes Jhinu, where a soak in the nearby hot springs provides a relaxed finish to one of Nepal’s classic mountain treks.
Exploring other options? See how the Annapurna Base Camp Trek compares in our guide to choosing the right trek in Nepal.
Good For
A shorter route with dramatic close-up Himalayan views.
Considerations
Steep stone steps, altitude and busy main-season trails.
Typical Itinerary
Day 1
Pokhara to Ghandruk
Drive from Pokhara toward the trailhead and trek to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk.
Day 2
Ghandruk to Chhomrong ~ 10km
Trek through forest and hillside settlements with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Day 3
Chhomrong to Bamboo ~ 9km
Descend toward the Chhomrong Khola, climb to Sinuwa and continue through dense forest to Bamboo.
Day 4
Bamboo to Deurali ~ 9km
Follow the Modi Khola valley through forest, waterfalls and increasingly alpine terrain.
Day 5
Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp ~ 8km
Trek past Machhapuchhre Base Camp and enter the Annapurna Sanctuary before reaching Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 metres.
Day 6
Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo ~ 17km
Watch the morning light over the Annapurna range before descending through the valley to Bamboo.
Day 7
Bamboo to Jhinu ~ 10km
Retrace the trail through Sinuwa and Chhomrong before descending toward Jhinu.
Day 8
Jhinu to Pokhara
Complete the final section of the trek (2km) and return by road to Pokhara.
Best Time To Go
Recommended
Challenging
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Monsoon
Jun-AugHeavy rain, slippery trails and cloudier mountain views.
Autumn
Sep-NovDrier trails, clear mountain views and colder nights.
Winter
Dec-FebVery cold higher up; snow and ice can affect the route.
Check current snow and trail conditions above Deurali before departure.
Beyond the Adventure
Explore the places, culture and local flavours that make the destination memorable.
Local Experiences
Old Gurung Museum — Ghandruk
Explore traditional Gurung clothing, artefacts and village heritage.
Meshram Baraha Temple — Ghandruk
Visit a sacred hillside shrine overlooking Gurung villages and the Annapurna mountains
Local Flavours
Dhido with Gundruk
Traditional millet or buckwheat porridge served with tangy fermented greens.
Gurung Bread
Warm, fried mountain bread served with honey, jam or curry.
Getting There
Before You Go
Make sure your itinerary allows enough time for gradual altitude gain, as Annapurna Base Camp reaches around 4,130 m. Carry travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation, and prepare for rapidly changing mountain weather. Keep some cash in Nepali rupees for teahouses and services along the trail, where cards and ATMs cannot be relied on.
What To Bring
Trekking Gear
- Broken-in trekking boots
- Daypack
- Reusable water bottle
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Sleeping bag suitable for cold nights
Clothing & Layers
- Warm insulated jacket
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Thermal base layers
- Trekking trousers
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat
Protection & Essentials
- Sunglasses
- SPF 50 sunscreen
- Power bank
- Personal first-aid kit
- Basic toiletries
- Passport and permit documents
Permits & Requirements
Current permits and trekking regulations may change. Always verify before booking.
Last checked: August 2026
Jhinu Danda Hot Springs — Access Update (October 2026)
The bathing pools were destroyed by flooding in August 2026 and were last reported closed for renovation. Reopening remains unconfirmed; check locally before planning a visit.
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