Overview
ABC Trek, known as Annapurna Base Camp Trek, is among the most popular mountain trekking routes in Nepal. This trek takes you through the Annapurna Sanctuary, which is a high glacial valley encircled by some of the Himalayas’ most spectacular peaks. The destination point is located at about 4,130 m (13,550 ft) below the southern side of Annapurna I peak.
All itineraries go from Pokhara to the foot trails around the Annapurna massif, followed by visits to places like Ghandruk and Chhomrong. The trail then goes on to Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan and Deurali before heading to Machchapuchhre base camp and Annapurna base camp. However, the lower approach will be different depending on road connections as well as whether the hike passes through Ghorepani and Poon Hill.
The journey is famous for its ever-changing scenery: terraced hillsides, traditional Gurung villages, bamboo and rhododendron forest, the Modi Khola valley and finally an Alpine landscape near the Sanctuary. There are also teahouses which offer accommodation at most points on the trek route.
ABC is usually classified as moderate in difficulty, although repeated flights of stone steps, climbing uphill, altitude and varying weather at certain times of the year can make it challenging physically. Avalanche danger and varying conditions in the mountains call for caution on the basis of local information.
Highlights
- Annapurna Base Camp
- Annapurna Sanctuary
- Annapurna I
- Machhapuchhre Base Camp
- Gurung villages
- Rhododendron and bamboo forests
- Modi Khola valley
- Optional Poon Hill extension
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Pokhara to Ghandruk
Drive + trek · 3–5 hours walking Drive from Pokhara to the trailhead near Kimche, then trek to Ghandruk through terraced hillsides and traditional Gurung villages. Enjoy views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Overnight: Ghandruk · approx. 1,940 m
- 2
Ghandruk to Chhomrong
Trek · 5–6 hours Descend towards the Kimrong Khola before climbing through forest and stone staircases to Chhomrong, a major gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. Overnight: Chhomrong · approx. 2,170 m
- 3
Chhomrong to Bamboo
Trek · 5–6 hours Descend steep stone steps to the river, climb towards Sinuwa and continue through dense bamboo and rhododendron forest. Overnight: Bamboo · approx. 2,310 m
- 4
Bamboo to Deurali
Trek · 5–7 hours Follow the Modi Khola valley through Dovan and the Himalaya area, passing waterfalls and increasingly rugged mountain terrain. Take care on slippery paths and check local advice about avalanche-prone sections. Overnight: Deurali · approx. 3,200–3,230 m
- 5
Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp
Trek · approx. 5–7 hours Climb through the upper valley to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), around 3,700 m, and continue to Annapurna Base Camp. Enjoy the dramatic mountain amphitheatre if weather and trail conditions permit. Overnight: ABC · approx. 4,130 m
- 6
ABC to Bamboo
Trek · approx. 6–8 hours or longer Enjoy the morning views, then descend via MBC, Deurali and Dovan to Bamboo. This is a long descent, so start early and keep a steady pace. Overnight: Bamboo · approx. 2,310 m
- 7
Bamboo to Jhinu Danda and Pokhara
Trek + drive · allow a full day Descend through Sinuwa and Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda. If time and conditions allow, visit the natural hot springs, then take arranged transport back to Pokhara. Finish: Pokhara · approx. 820 m
Things to Carry
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