Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Route; Ultimate guide for annapurna base camp trekking routes from 4 days to 16 days

Annapurna Base Camp trekking routes offer a diverse range of experiences for every type of adventurer. From the classic thrill of standing in the shadow of towering peaks on the Annapurna Base Camp trek to discovering hidden gems on alternative Annapurna treks, there's an itinerary to suit your desires. Immerse yourself in the local culture by connecting with friendly locals and sharing unforgettable moments together. And don't forget to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna region with your camera, from vibrant rhododendron forests to stunning sunrises.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a bucket-list adventure for many, offering a perfect blend of challenge and reward. As one of the world's most popular trekking routes, it promises breathtaking mountain vistas, rich cultural experiences, and a sense of accomplishment like no other.

With countless trekking options ranging from short and sweet to epic expeditions, there's an Annapurna adventure for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned hiker seeking a thrilling challenge or a first-time trekker looking for a taste of the Himalayas, this iconic region has it all. Let's explore the diverse range of Annapurna trekking routes, from budget-friendly options to luxurious experiences. The popular trekking routes to Annapurna Base Camp for 2024, 2025 and 2026.

annapurna base camp trekking route map

Where is Annapurna Base Camp?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a quintessential Himalayan adventure that transports you to the heart of Nepal's Annapurna Region. As the second most popular trekking route in the Himalayas, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a diverse landscape of lush forests, terraced farmlands, and rugged mountains. The trek culminates in a breathtaking encounter with the Annapurna massif, a towering spectacle of snow-capped peaks.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Nepali culture as you pass through charming Gurung and Magar villages along the trail. Witness the warm hospitality of the locals and savor authentic Nepali cuisine. The journey is as rewarding as the destination, with each step bringing you closer to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a first-time adventurer, the Annapurna Base Camp trek promises an unforgettable experience.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Routes 2024, 2025 and 2026

We'll start with the shortest Annapurna Base Camp trek routes. This section will cover the most common and popular options. Later, we'll also explore the less-traveled North Annapurna Base Camp trails. Keep in mind that the shortest routes might not be ideal for beginners, especially as the days get shorter. If you're new to trekking or want to increase your chances of success, consider the longer routes that pass through Ghorepani.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return: 4 Days

The 4-day Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return is undoubtedly the quickest and easiest way to experience the magic of the Annapurna region. This distinctive and opulent option offers a quick ascent to the base camp and a breathtaking helicopter flight back to Pokhara. In 2024, most of the shortest tours to Annapurna Base Camp will be by helicopter flyout. If you don't want to trek and just want to reach Annapurna Base Camp by helicopter, the Daily Helicopter Tour to Annapurna Base Camp is the easiest option.

Considered a luxury experience, this trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the mighty Himalayas while enjoying the convenience of modern transportation. The helicopter journey from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara takes approximately 25 minutes and offers stunning aerial views, including the iconic Mardi Himal viewpoint.

4 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

Day 1: Drive to Siwai/Matque, trek to Chhomrong (2170 m) 3 hours of driving and 4 hours of walking.
Day 2: Chhomrong to Himalaya (2900 m) 7 hours of walking.
Day 3: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 m) 7 hours of walking.
Day 4: Return to Pokhara from Annapurna Base Camp by helicopter.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: 5 Days.

The 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek is the fastest, or shortest, itinerary available from Pokhara. While one of our clients from the USA managed to complete the trek in just 4 days, this is exceptionally challenging and not recommended for most people. Opting for a 5-day trek implies a strong focus on reaching the base camp with minimal time for exploration or acclimatization. This route is suitable for very fit individuals with previous trekking experience but is definitely not for beginners.

5 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary

Day 1: Drive to Siwai/Matque, trek to Chhomrong (2170 m) 3 hours of driving and 4 hours of walking.
Day 2: Chhomrong to Himalaya (2900 m) 7 hours of walking.
Day 3: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 m) 7 hours of walking.
Day 4: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Sinuwa (2340 m) 7 hours of walking.
Day 5: Trek to Siwai/Matque and Drive to Pokhara (822 m) 7 hours of walking.

Annapurna Base Camp: 6 Days.

The 6 days Annapurna Base Camp itinerary follows a similar route to the 5-days option but includes an extra day for a more relaxed pace. This trek also starts in Pokhara, but if you're short on time, you can fly there from Kathmandu early in the morning. For the return journey, you can take an evening flight back to Kathmandu, or if flights are unavailable, there are tourist buses departing after 6:30 PM. It's technically possible to complete the 6-day Annapurna Base Camp trek from Kathmandu if you have a total of 7 or 8 days in Nepal, including your arrival and departure days.

6 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary

Day 1: Pokhara to Jhinu by Jeep, then trek to Sinuwa (2,340 m) 4 -5 hours walking.
Day 2: Trek to the Himalaya (2920 m) 5 hours of walking.
Day 3: Trek to Machhapucre base camp (3700 m) 5 hours of walking
Day 4: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m): 3 hours of walking.
Day 5: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,050 m) 6 hours of walking.
Day 6: Trek back to Jhinu (5 hours of walking) and drive back to Pokhara. 2 hours

Annapurna Base Camp: 7 Days.

The most popular short Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary spans seven days, offering a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. This route includes a visit to the charming Ghandruk village, allowing ample time for acclimatization without rushing. Enjoy leisurely breaks, capture stunning photographs, and unwind in rejuvenating natural hot springs at the end of your trek.

The 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary is remarkably flexible, starting from either Pokhara or Kathmandu. If you're physically fit but a trekking novice, this is the ideal choice to conquer Annapurna Base Camp on foot. Don't waste time searching for multiple packages if you have less than ten days in Nepal. This itinerary is your perfect Himalayan escape. Rugged Trails offers one of the most popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region, departing from Pokhara.

7 Days Ghorepani Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary

Day1: Pokhara Drive to Nayapul (SyauliBazar) 2-3 hours and Trek to Ghandruk (1940 m) 3–4 hours of walking.
Day2: Ghandruk Trek to Chhomrong (2170 m) 5–6 hours of walking.
Day3: Chhomrong Trek to Himalaya (2920 m) 6 hours of walking.
Day4: Himalaya Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) via MBC. 5–6 hours of walking.
Day5: Annapurna Base Camp Trek to Bamboo (2345 m) 6-7 hours of walking.
Day6: Bamboo trek to Jhinu Danda (Hot Spring, 1740 m) 5–6 hours of walking.
Day7: Jhinu Danda Trek to Mokyu or straight drive to Pokhara.

Short Ghorepani Annapurna Base Camp Trek: 7 Days

This is another shorter trekking package that includes the stunning Poon Hill viewpoint in the Annapurna Foothills. We offer this route because many of our clients have enjoyed this customized trek. The short Ghorepani-Annapurna Base Camp package is not suitable for everyone but is ideal for those who enjoy hiking and adventure. After exploring Ghorepani and Poon Hill, the trek continues through Tadapani village before reaching Chuile village for an overnight stay. This itinerary is another popular way to experience the beauty of the Nepal Himalayas and the Annapurna Base Camp region.

Day 1: Pokhara drive to Uller and trek to Ghorepani. 4 hours of walking.
Day 2: Poon HIll Trek to Chuiley. 7 hours of walking.
Day 3: Trek to Upper Sinwa. 6-7 hours of walking.
Day 4: Trek to Deurali. 6 hours of walking.
Day 5: Trek to ABC.6 hours of walking.
Day 6: Trek back to Sinwa. 7-8 hours of walking.
Day 7: Trek to Jhinu Danda and drive to Pokhara. 5-6 hours of walking.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: 10 Days.

A 10-day Annapurna Base Camp trek is a popular package that begins and ends in Kathmandu. If you have 12 days in Nepal and seek a Himalayan adventure, this itinerary is perfect. While most shorter Annapurna treks start in Pokhara, this 10-day package offers a convenient departure point from the Kathmandu valley. The trek incorporates the iconic Ghorepani Poon Hill viewpoint and passes through the charming Tadapani village. Trekking guides highly recommend this 10-day Annapurna Base Camp trek if you're inexperienced or prefer a slower pace.

10 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Day 2: Pokhara Drive to Ulleri (48 km) Trek to Ghorepani, 2880 M. 4 hours walking.
Day 3: Morning Hike up to Poon Hill (3210 m/10,529 ft) and trek to Tadapani (2650 m). 6 hours walking
Day 4: Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong, 2170 m, 6 hours walking
Day 5: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya, 2920 M. 6 hours walking.
Day 6: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp 4130 M via MBC Camp 3700 M (12,136 ft) 6-7 hours walking.
Day 7: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo 2310 M. 7 hours walking.
Day 8: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, 1780 M. 6 hours walking.
Day 9: Jhinu Hot Spring Drive to Pokhara.
Day 10: Drive back to Kathmandu.

short ghorepani annapurna base camp trekking route

North Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the pristine wilderness of the Annapurna region with the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, also known as the Maurice Herzog Trail. This off-the-beaten-path expedition offers a unique escape from the crowds and an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of Nepal's hidden Himalayan treasures. The 1950 French expedition under Maurice Herzog's direction blazed a trail through this remote area by making the first successful ascent of an 8,000-meter peak. This North Annapurna Base Camp trek is a perfect alternative to the more popular Annapurna Base Camp itinerary, offering a more secluded and challenging experience.

This trek is a photographer's paradise because of the breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains, which includes Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Fishtail (Machhapuchhre), and Dhaulagiri. Encounter diverse ecosystems, from lush rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and glacial landscapes. The remote location of Annapurna North Base Camp (ANBC) at 4,190 metres provides an intimate connection with nature and a chance to spot elusive wildlife like the snow leopard.

This 5-9 days camping trek is ideal for adventurous spirits seeking a challenge. While less frequented than other Annapurna trails, the route is safe and offers remarkable rewards. Cross the Thulo Bugin Pass, encounter the gushing Miristi Khola, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Magar and Thakali people.

7 Days North Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary (Camping)

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Upper Narchyang Village, 2140 M., 2 hours walk
Day 2: Narchyang Village to Chottepa 2370 M. 7 hours walking.
Day 3: Chhotepa to Sandikharka, 3160 M. 6 hours walking.
Day 4: Shandikharka to (NABC) Campsite 4050 M. 5 hours walking.
Day 5: Explore North Annapurna Base Camp (4190 M) & back to Thulobugin Pass (4310 M). 7 hours walking.
Day 6: Thulobugin 4310 M to Ghasa 2010. 6 hours of walking.
Day 7: Drive Ghasa to Pokhara. 6 hours driving.

Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek - 11 Days

Some people manage to combine the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp into a single 14-15 day trek, but this is a demanding itinerary covering the entire circuit. A more popular alternative these days is combining the Mardi Himal and Annapurna Base Camp treks. While Annapurna Base Camp reaches a maximum altitude of 4130 metres, Mardi Himal Base Camp climbs higher to 4500 meters.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek immerses you in the grandeur of the world's tallest Himalayan peaks, whereas Mardi Himal offers a different perspective, providing a sense of standing directly alongside these majestic mountains. If you have two weeks in Nepal and desire a moderate trekking experience without the rigors of the Everest Base Camp Trek, this combination is ideal. A 9 to 11-day itinerary offers an excellent way to explore both Mardi Himal and Annapurna Base Camp.

Annapurna Base Camp Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kimche (1,610 m) and trek to Ghandruk (1,940 M) 2 hours of walking. 3 km
Day 2: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2,170 m) 2 hours of walking. 10km
Day 3: Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310 m) 6 hours of walking. 7 km
Day 4: Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3,230 m) 5 hours of walking. 9 km
Day 5: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m) 5 hours of walking. 8 km
Day 6: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310 m) 8 hours of walking. 16.5 km
Day 7: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,760 m) 6 hours of walking. 9 km
Day 8: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Forest Camp (2,600 m) 6 hours of walking. 13 km
Day 9: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,600 m): 5 hours of walking (9 km).
Day 10: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) and Trek to Low Camp (3,050 m) 7 hours of walking. 13 km.
Day 11: Trek to siding (1,706 m) and drive to Pokhara (800 m) 4 hours of walking. 4 km.

How difficult is the Annapurna base camp trek?

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is rated as quite difficult. It does not call for advanced climbing abilities, but it does call for a respectable degree of stamina and physical condition. Daily excursions through a variety of terrain, including rocky trails, downhill descents, and uphill climbs, are part of the expedition. In order to avoid altitude sickness, proper acclimatisation is necessary.

Best Time To Do Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The months of March through May and October through December are the ideal times of year to hike to Annapurna Base Camp. Clear skies, breathtaking mountain views, and comfortable walking conditions are all present during these times. Although it is feasible to trek in other months, visibility and route conditions may be affected by increasing rainfall or snowfall due to unpredictable weather.

Conclusion Of Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Routes

The Annapurna Base Camp trek offers an unparalleled journey through the heart of the Himalayas. With a diverse range of options from short, exhilarating adventures to extended expeditions, there's a perfect itinerary for every traveler. Whether you're captivated by the allure of standing beneath towering peaks or seeking the tranquility of off-the-beaten-path trails, the Annapurna region promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality that Nepal has to offer. You might not see all the trekking packages routes, such as 5 days, 6 days, or in a day, but simply write to us, and the Rugged Trails Nepal team will craft the perfect itinerary for Annapurna Base Camp Trek as per your travel schedule.