Destination Annapurna Region

Trip Difficulty Moderate Trip

Duration 12 Days

Activities Trekking

Accommodation Hotel and Teahouse Lodge

Max altitude 4200m

Group Size 1-20 Pax

Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Vehicle Bus/Car/Jeep/Flight

Best Price Guarantee
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Discount for groups

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days

Trek into the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering Himalayan giants.
Close-up views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South.
Experience sunrise from Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints.
Walk through colorful rhododendron and bamboo forests filled with birds and wildlife.
Explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages with rich mountain culture and hospitality.
Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after days of trekking.
Stay in cozy teahouses and enjoy local Nepali and international meals.
Diverse landscapes: from green farmlands to alpine glaciers within a few days.
A moderate and safe trek suitable for both first-time trekkers and families.
Easy access from the beautiful city of Pokhara, the gateway to Annapurna.

Overview of Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days is famous for its dramatic landscapes, deep valleys, cascading rivers, and a rich Gurung and Magar culture. The Annapurna region is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse mountains in the world. Annapurna I (8,091m) is the tenth-highest peak on Earth.

A 12-day classic Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you into the heart of Annapurna natural amphitheater. The trek usually starts from Pokhara with short drive to Nayapul or Ulleri. You will then trek on the scenic trails through terraced farmlands, rhododendron forests, and traditional mountain villages.

As you walk higher, the scenery gradually transforms into alpine wilderness to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m. You are surrounded by the Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South at the Annapurna Base Camp. The ABC Trek has a perfect blend of culture, nature, and Himalayan adventure. This 12 days ABC Trek is suitable for the first-time trekkers and experienced hikers alike.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu(1,400m, 30 mins, 4 km)
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara(820m, 6-7 hrs, 200km)
Day 03: Drive From to Ulleri and Trek to Banthanti(2,210m, 4-5 hrs, 18 km)
Day 04: Trek From Banthati to Ghorepani(2,860m, 5-6 hrs, 10 km)
Day 05: Trek From Ghorepani to Chuile(2,300m, 6 hrs, 12 km)
Day 06: Trek From Chuile to Lower Sinuwa(2,000m, 5-6 hrs, 11 km)
Day 07: Trek From Lower Sinuwa To Deurali(3,200m, 6-7 hrs, 14km)
Day 08: Trek From Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp(4,130m, 5-6 hrs, 10 km)
Day 09: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo(2,310m, 6-7 hrs, 15km)
Day 10: Trek to Jhinu Danda & Drive to Pokhara(820m, 5-6 hrs, 17 km)
Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu(1,300m, 6-7 hrs, 200 km)
Day 12: Final Departure(30 mins, 4 km)

Why the 12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Incredible mountain views
You walk right into the heart of the Himalayas with close views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South.
Perfect for beginners and experienced trekkers
The trail is not highly technical and can be completed by anyone with normal fitness and determination.
Rich culture and local life
You pass through beautiful Gurung and Magar villages where you can experience warm hospitality, local traditions, and mountain lifestyle.
Diverse landscapes in one trek
From green terraced fields and rhododendron forests to rocky alpine terrain and glaciers, the scenery changes every day.
Comfortable teahouse facilities
Unlike remote camping treks, you stay in cozy lodges with good food, hot showers, and friendly hosts.
Short and accessible
The trek can be completed in about 7–12 days and starts easily from Pokhara without long flights.
Natural hot springs at Jhinu
A relaxing reward after days of walking, perfect for soothing tired muscles.
Safe and well-marked route
The Annapurna region is one of the safest trekking areas with good infrastructure and rescue options.
Affordable adventure
Compared to many other Himalayan treks, ABC offers great value with stunning experiences at a reasonable cost.
Close encounter with Annapurna Base Camp
Standing at 4,130m inside the Annapurna Sanctuary feels like being in a natural Himalayan stadium.

Detail Itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu(1,400m, 30 mins, 4 km)

Welcome to Nepal. After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, a short briefing about the trek and preparation for the journey.

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara(820m, 6-7 hrs, 200km)

A scenic drive along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers with beautiful views of hills, rivers, and the Annapurna range. Evening free to explore Lakeside Pokhara.

Day 03: Drive From to Ulleri and Trek to Banthanti(2,210m, 4-5 hrs, 18 km)

Drive to Ulleri via Nayapul and Tikhedhunga, then begin the trek through forests of oak and rhododendron to Banthanti.

Day 04: Trek From Banthati to Ghorepani(2,860m, 5-6 hrs, 10 km)

A beautiful trail through lush rhododendron forests with gradual ascent to Ghorepani, a famous Gurung village offering stunning Himalayan views.

Day 05: Trek From Ghorepani to Chuile(2,300m, 6 hrs, 12 km)

Early morning optional hike to Poon Hill for sunrise, then descend through Tadapani and continue to the peaceful Chuile village.

Day 06: Trek From Chuile to Lower Sinuwa(2,000m, 5-6 hrs, 11 km)

Trail descends to Kimrong Khola and climbs again through forests and small settlements to Lower Sinuwa.

Day 07: Trek From Lower Sinuwa To Deurali(3,200m, 6-7 hrs, 14km)

Trek through Bamboo, Dovan, and the Himalayan Hotel along the Modi Khola valley with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.

Day 08: Trek From Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp(4,130m, 5-6 hrs, 10 km)

A spectacular day entering the Annapurna Sanctuary via Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Surrounded by towering peaks including Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.

Day 09: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo(2,310m, 6-7 hrs, 15km)

Descend from the base camp enjoying last views of the Himalayas and follow the same valley back to Bamboo.

Day 10: Trek to Jhinu Danda and Drive to Pokhara(820m, 5-6 hrs, 17 km)

Trek to Jhinu Danda, famous for natural hot springs, relax your muscles, then drive back to Pokhara.

Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu(1,300m, 6-7 hrs, 200 km)

Return journey to Kathmandu with farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 12: Final Departure(30 mins, 4 km)

Transfer to airport for your international flight. End of the memorable Annapurna adventure.

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Includes / Excludes

What's Included ?

Airport Transfers
Pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle
Kathmandu Hotel
Two nights in a 3-star hotel with breakfast (twin-sharing basis)
Tourist Bus Transfers
Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu by tourist bus
Pokhara Hotel
Two nights in a 3-star hotel with breakfast (twin-sharing basis)
Private Transportation
Pokhara to Ulleri and Jhinu Danda to Pokhara
Trekking Permits
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS card
Trekking Guide
Experienced, English-speaking guide including salary, insurance, meals, and accommodation
Porter Services
One porter for every two trekkers, carrying 15–20 kg, including insurance and all expenses
Meals During Trek
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Trek Accommodations
Tea house accommodation on a shared basis
Trekking Map
Detailed trekking route map
Trekking Gear
Complimentary sleeping bag and duffle bag during the trek
Medical Support
Basic first-aid kit
Taxes and Fees
All government taxes and company service charges

What's Excluded ?

International Flights
International airfare to and from Nepal
Travel Insurance
Personal travel and trekking insurance
Sightseeing Fees
Entrance fees for monuments and sightseeing places
Visa Fee
Nepal visa fee
Meals in Cities
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara, except complimentary hotel dinners
Personal Expenses
Wi-Fi, drinks, laundry, charging of electronic devices, hot showers, hot water, and similar personal costs
Tipping
Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
Other Expenses
Any cost not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section

Note: We operate private trip everyday.

We can operate private trip for solo, group, family, students as per your requirements.

Trip Information - Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days

Equipments for Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days

For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you’ll need essential equipment to stay comfortable and safe at varying altitudes. Bring a warm hat, gloves, and sun protection for your head and hands, along with moisture-wicking layers, a fleece, and a down jacket for your upper body.

Quick-dry trekking pants, thermal leggings, and sturdy boots with warm socks are important for your lower body and feet. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, toiletries, and travel documents, including passport, permits, and insurance.

Carry a daypack with water bottles, snacks, and a sleeping bag, while trekking poles and a headlamp are highly recommended. A first aid kit, personal medications, a power bank, and a camera complete your gear, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek through the stunning Annapurna region.

Upper Body Layers
Moisture-wicking T-shirts (short & long sleeve)
Fleece jacket or wool sweater
Down jacket or insulated jacket
Lightweight trekking jacket (windproof & waterproof)
Thermal base layers

Lower Body Layers
Trekking pants (quick-dry)
Thermal leggings or base layer
Shorts (optional for lower altitudes)
Waterproof trekking pants

Footwear and Accessories
Comfortable trekking boots (broken-in)
Lightweight shoes or sandals for evenings
Warm socks (wool or synthetic)
Gaiters (optional, for snow or mud)

Head and Sun Protection
Warm wool or fleece hat
Sun hat or cap
Buff or neck gaiter
Sunglasses (UV protection)

Personal and Medical Kits
Personal medications
Painkillers and altitude sickness medicine
Bandages, blister plasters
Antiseptic cream and hand sanitizer
Insect repellent

Travel Documents
Passport and visa
Trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS)
Travel insurance
Flight tickets and hotel confirmations
Emergency contacts

Miscellaneous
Camera or GoPro
Power bank and charging cables
Notebook and pen
Trash bags (leave no trace)
Lightweight travel pillow

Best Time to Trek

Spring (March–May)
Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, excellent mountain views.
Autumn (Sept–Nov)
Most popular season with stable weather and great visibility.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Cold but peaceful with fewer trekkers.
Monsoon (June–Aug)
Rainy and leech season, but lush greenery.

Difficulty Level

Moderate trek suitable for beginners with normal fitness
Daily walking: 5–7 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,130m (Annapurna Base Camp)
No technical climbing required

Required Permits

ACAP: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
TIMS: Trekkers’ Information Management System Card. We arranged both permits.

Accommodation and Food

Teahouse/lodge accommodation on sharing basis
Meals: Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, momos, pasta, potatoes, pancakes
Vegetarian options widely available
Hot shower and Wi-Fi available at extra cost

Altitude and Acclimatization
Proper acclimatization is important above 3,000m
Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
Walk slowly: “Slow and steady” is the key
Common symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness

Transportation

Kathmandu-Pokhara by tourist bus or flight
Local jeep from Pokhara to the trek starting point
End of trek return from Jhinu/Siwai to Pokhara by jeep

Safety and Communication
Well-marked trail with many villages
Mobile network works in most places
Guides carry first aid kit
Helicopter rescue possible if needed (insurance required)

Internet and Electricity
Wi-Fi available in most teahouses (extra charge)
Charging costs NPR 200–400 per device
Bring a power bank

Best Price Guarantee
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Discount for groups

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Frequently Asked Questions

Good to know before you a book trip in Nepal.

Yes, but only if your policy explicitly covers “Emergency Medical Evacuation” and “High Altitude Trekking” up to 5,000m. Many standard travel policies from the US/EU cap out at 2,500m or 3,000m. Since ABC reaches 4,130m, a low-altitude policy is useless. We have seen insurance providers deny claims because the trekker was on a “mountaineering” route (their definition) without the right rider. Our advice: Always get a policy that allows for “cashless” evacuation where the insurer coordinates directly with the heli-operator. If you have to pay upfront, a heli-rescue from ABC can cost between $2,500 and $5,000.

Legally, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) requires all trekkers in the Annapurna region to be accompanied by a licensed guide. While enforcement on the trail can be inconsistent and some independent trekkers “slip through,” we do not recommend it. Checkpoints (like the one in Birethanti) are increasingly strict about the TIMS card and guide registration. Beyond legality, the trail near Deurali is prone to avalanches. We provide guides not just for navigation—the trail is well-marked—but as “safety officers” who monitor your oxygen levels and handle logistics when tea houses are overbooked.

Packages usually cover permits, meals, and lodging, but you should budget $15–$25 per day for “extras.” Specifically: Hot showers (NPR 300-500), Charging devices (NPR 200-400 per device), Wi-Fi (NPR 300-500 for a code), and Toilet paper (which you must buy as you go). Tipping is also a separate, expected expense; for a 10-day trek, we recommend roughly $150 total per trekker to be split between your guide and porter. We always provide a clear “Excluded” list so you aren’t surprised at 4,000m.

Yes, it is very doable for a first-timer. The “fitness” required is more about knee durability than athletic speed. The route via Ghorepani involves thousands of stone steps (especially the descent from Ulleri and Chhomrong). If you can hike for 5–6 hours with a 5kg pack in your home country, you are ready. We find that US/EU trekkers often struggle most with the steps, not the altitude. Practical Tip: Train on stairs or a stair-climber machine for 4 weeks before arriving.

Avoid buying plastic bottles; they are a major environmental burden and are actually banned in some parts of the Annapurna Sanctuary. A filtration bottle (Grayl is excellent) or high-quality purification tablets (Chlorine/Iodine) are sufficient. However, be aware that many US/EU travelers get “Delhi Belly” not from the water, but from unwashed hands or raw vegetables. We ensure our kitchen staff uses boiled/treated water for all food prep, but we still advise you to treat any tap water you use for brushing teeth.

This is a vital concern. Ethical companies (including us) follow the guidelines of the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG). This means: a weight limit of 20kg–25kg per porter, providing them with windproof/waterproof gear, and ensuring they have life and medical insurance. When you see a porter carrying three massive bags, that is a red flag. Expectation: You should see your porter eating the same quality of food as the guide and sleeping in proper quarters, not the dining room floor.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 days