Mt. Annapurna (8091m) is the 10th highest mountain in the world and the journey to its base camp is one of the most popular treks on earth. Like any other trip in the Annapurna region, our trek also begins in Pokhara, widely known as the ‘Lake City’ and passes through cascading waterfalls, beautiful villages, terraced farmlands, lush rhododendron forests, and amazing mountain vistas before reaching the base of the mighty Annapurna.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek will be even more interesting in spring as the whole forest along the trail turns red, pink and white with rhododendron flowers. This wonder trip can be done anytime of the year except during the monsoons [July thru August].
Trip Itinerary
DAY 01:
Drive to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft) and trek to Ghandruk (1940m/6360 ft): 5 - 6 hours
DAY 02:
Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m/7120ft): 5 - 6 hours
DAY 03:
Chhomrong to Bamboo (2310m/7578ft): 4 - 5 hours
DAY 04:
Bamboo to Deurali (3230m/10,595ft): 3 - 4 hours
DAY 05:
Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,545ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m/12135ft): 5- 6 hours
DAY 06:
Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo: 7 – 8 hours
DAY 07:
Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1760m/5770 ft): 5 - 6 hours
DAY 08:
Trek to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara: 6 hours trek, 1 hour drive
Itinerary Option II
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1050m/ 1 & ½ hr) & Trek to Ghandruk(1940m/5 hrs ).
Day 02: Walk from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m/ 5 hrs ).
Day 03: Continue walk form Chhomrong -Himalayan Hotel (2920m / 7hrs)
Day 04: Walk from Himalaya–Machhapuchere Base camp (3720m / 4hrs)
Day 05: MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (4,230m/3 hrs) & back to Sinuwa (2340m /4 hrs)
Day 06: trek from Sinuwa to Ghandrung (1940m/5 hrs)
Day 07: Trek down from Ghandruk to Nayapul (1050m/4hrs) and Drive back to Pokhara
Acclimatisation
All of Himalayan Glacier’s treks are planned with a high degree of awareness of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Going up at higher altitude too fast causes a medical condition serious enough to kill. We understand that for a safe trek, it is essential to allow sufficient time for acclimatization. Sensible planning is therefore required to minimize the risk of AMS. Himalayan Glacier advises guest(s) especially ones with known heart, lung or blood diseases to consult their doctor before traveling. Mild headaches, fever, loss of appetite or stomach disorders are symptoms of AMS. You may check out "Altitude illness" by Dr Jim Duff for detailed information on AMS. Himalayan Glacier's itineraries are designed to prevent AMS as much as possible. But, it is important to remember that some visitors are more vulnerable than others.
Best Season
Autumn (Sept to Nov) and spring (March to May) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather is sunny and warm with outstanding views. If you wish to avoid crowds and enjoy some alone time with nature then taking this trip during winter (Dec, Jan, Feb) could also be an option. However, the temperature during winter could be harsh for most guests. Trekking in the Summer or Monsoon seasons(June to Aug) will be affected by rain but the Summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist.