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ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP

The Annapurna Base Camp trek combines spectacular Himalayan scenery with rich cultural experiences, taking you through lush forests, terraced farmland, traditional Gurung and Magar villages and high alpine landscapes. The route offers incredible views of the Annapurna range, culminating at Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres. Here, you are surrounded by a dramatic amphitheatre of towering, snow covered peaks, making this a rewarding and unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nayapul, Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Dovan, Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Bamboo, Jhinu Danda (Hot Spring), Nayapul, Pokhara, Kathmandu.

DEPOSIT: £300


TOTAL COST: £1,220


DURATION: 14 Days


GROUP SIZE: 12 people max


DIFFICULTY: Easy/Moderate


MAX ELEVATION: 4,130m

ITINERARY OVERVIEW


DAY 1  Kathmandu Arrival

Welcome to Kathmandu!


Upon your arrival today, a member of our ground team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel, where you'll be spending your first night. Take this time to recover from your international flight, explore local shops, or visit some of Kathmandu's fascinating sites. We highly recommend spending two nights here to fully experience the UNESCO World Heritage sites the city has to offer. Please let us know if you would like to add an extra night pre-trek.


This evening, we'll gather for a briefing and welcome dinner, where you'll have the opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and your guide, who will accompany you throughout your trek.


Accommodation: Boutique Hotel · Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Today, you will fly to Lukla Airport, famously known as one of the most dangerous airports in the world! You'll start your day early with a bus ride to either Kathmandu or Ramechhap.


Upon arrival, you'll meet the rest of the team, including additional porters and guides, and enjoy some tea and coffee together. From there, we'll pass through the National Luminary Pasang Lhamu Memorial Gate, marking the beginning of our trekking route. We'll stop for lunch, and then continue onto Phakding, where we'll spend the night.


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

Today, we will start the day with breakfast around 8am before setting off on our trek to Namche Bazaar. This part of the trail includes some steeper sections and quite a few steps, so be prepared for a bit of a challenge. Along the way, we'll cross the famous Hillary Bridge, an iconic part of the journey. The trek to Namche Bazaar should take us around 4 to 6 hours, depending on our pace. Once we arrive, we'll settle in and spend the night in Namche, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling Sherpa town.


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

Today, we'll enjoy a well-deserved rest day in the vibrant town of Namche Bazaar, giving our bodies time to acclimatise to the higher altitude. In the morning, we'll embark on a short acclimatisation hike, which will not only help us adjust but also offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.


Our destination is the Everest View Hotel, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. Afterward, we'll return to Namche Bazaar, where the rest of the day is free for you to explore the town, visit local shops, or simply relax and recharge for the days ahead.


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

Today, we will trek to Debouche, passing through the picturesque village of Tengboche along the way. Tengboche is known for its historic monastery, the oldest in the Khumbu region, which we will take some time to explore. After visiting the monastery, we'll continue our journey, descending into Debouche, where we will settle in for the night.


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

After breakfast, we will set off on today's trek from Debouche to Dingboche. Our route will lead us through the charming village of Pangboche, where we'll stop for a coffee break or lunch and take in the stunning views. As we continue our climb, you may start to feel the effects of the increasing altitude, which is perfectly normal and a sign that we're gaining elevation.


Once we arrive in Dingboche, we will settle in and spend the next two nights here, giving us the opportunity to acclimatise properly while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of this high-altitude village.


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

Today, we will spend the day in Dingboche, allowing ourselves a more relaxed morning to recharge. Later, we will set off on a hike up to Nangkartshang Peak as part of our acclimatisation process. This ascent will take approximately two to three hours, reaching an altitude of around 5,100 metres, and will reward us with breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks. In the afternoon, you are free to explore Dingboche at your own pace.


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

Today's trek will take us from Dingboche to Lobuche. The initial part of the journey will be relatively easy and flat, with some gentle undulations. We'll pause for lunch or a coffee break along the way before tackling a steep ascent. At the top of this hill, we'll visit the Everest Memorial Ground, a solemn site dedicated to those who lost their lives in their attempt to summit Everest. From there, we'll continue our gradual ascent until we reach Lobuche, where we'll settle in for the night.


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

Today is the big day!


We'll begin our trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, a journey that will take approximately 3-4 hours. Once we arrive and enjoy a hearty lunch, we'll set out for Everest Base Camp. The walk to Base Camp will take us along a ridge, where we'll proceed slowly and carefully, there's no rush.


Congratulations! We'll reach Everest Base Camp and take time to capture this remarkable achievement with some photos. It's a moment to truly celebrate and be proud of. After soaking in the views and your accomplishment, we'll head back to Gorak Shep for the night. It's been a long day, and you might feel tired, hungry, or experience some altitude symptoms, but this is completely normal. Rest assured, you'll sleep well tonight!


Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal










DAY 1 Kathmandu Arrival

After arriving at Kathmandu airport, a member of our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel, where you will spend your first night. This afternoon, you will have time to shop in Kathmandu if you need to pick up any last-minute items.

In the evening, you will join us for a welcome dinner and meet your guide for the first time. During dinner, your guide will review the route you will be embarking on. Those staying an extra night will have an included tour of the UNESCO sites.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel · Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

DAY 2 Kathmandu > Pokhara (910m / 2,986ft)


approx. 6 to 7 hours drive

Today, travel to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The drive along the Prithvi Highway reveals the beauty of Nepal's countryside, with lush green hills, dense forests and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre.

Upon reaching Pokhara, settle into your hotel and take a leisurely walk around Phewa Lake, where the calm waters reflect the majestic mountain backdrop. Rest well tonight, as your Annapurna Base Camp trek begins tomorrow.

Accommodation: Hotel · Bed and Breakfast

DAY 3 Pokhara > Nayapul > Tikhedhunga (1,495m / 4,905ft)


1 hour drive · approx. 4 to 5 hours trek

Today begins your trek with a short drive to Nayapul, the trailhead for your Annapurna Base Camp journey. From Nayapul, you'll trek towards Tikhedhunga, passing through vibrant villages like Birethanti, Lamdawali, Sudame and Hile. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, lush pastures, terraced fields and cascading waterfalls along the Bhurungdi Khola. At Birethanti, your guide will assist with the permit check.

Arriving in Tikhedhunga, settle into your tea house, change into comfortable clothes and explore the scenic village surrounded by impressive mountain views.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 4 Tikhedhunga > Ghorepani (2,850m / 9,350ft)


approx. 6 to 7 hours trek

Today's trek leads you to the picturesque Ghorepani village, situated within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Known as one of Nepal's esteemed hill stations, Ghorepani's name originates from ancient traders who rested here, allowing their horses (ghodas) to drink water (pani).

The trail to Ghorepani involves a moderate challenge, with steep stair climbs, particularly beyond the Magar village of Ulleri. Crossing the villages of Banthanti and Nangethanti, you'll arrive at Ghorepani, one of Nepal's largest Gurung villages, surrounded by the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 5 Ghorepani > Poon Hill (3,200m / 10,499ft) > Tadapani (2,500m / 8,202ft)


approx. 6 to 7 hours trek

Start early for a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill, famous for its stunning sunrise over the Himalayas. The climb up the steep stone steps is invigorating, and as you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a golden sunrise illuminating the peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre.

Afterwards, return to Ghorepani for breakfast before trekking on to Tadapani village.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 6 Tadapani > Chhomrong (2,020m / 6,627ft)


approx. 5 to 6 hours trek

Today's trek takes you through stunning landscapes, vibrant villages and lush forests. You'll start by descending into the valley, crossing suspension bridges over the Kimrong Khola, and then ascend to Chhomrong village.

Chhomrong, the last major settlement on the ABC route, is renowned for its steep stone steps and offers magnificent views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. Explore this lively Gurung and Magar village to experience its rich cultural heritage and local way of life.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 7 Chhomrong > Dovan (2,600m / 8,530ft)


approx. 6 to 7 hours trek

Today, begin your trek from Chhomrong village, known for its stone streets and spectacular mountain views. After breakfast, descend steep stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola river, enjoying the scenic hills and terraced fields. Cross the river and climb through the forest to Sinuwa village, a common lunch stop for ABC trekkers.

Continue through bamboo forests beside the Modi Khola to Bamboo Village. From Bamboo, trek through oak and rhododendron forests to reach Dovan.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 8 Dovan > Deurali (3,200m / 10,499ft)


approx. 5 to 6 hours trek

Today's trek takes you through one of the most thrilling sections of the ABC trail, known for its avalanche-prone terrain. Starting from Dovan, you'll traverse forested areas of pine, rhododendron and bamboo. Your first stop is the Himalaya area, located below Hiunchuli Peak.

From the Himalaya, hike to Hinko Cave before crossing the old avalanche zone to reach Deurali. As you approach Deurali, you may notice the thinning air, and while the terrain isn't overly challenging, the large rocks might require extra effort.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 9 Deurali > Machhapuchhre Base Camp > Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,550ft)


approx. 6 to 7 hours trek

Today is the big day! The journey first takes you to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), situated below the dramatic North West Face of Machhapuchhre Peak, also known as Fishtail Mountain.

From Deurali, the steep trail ascends to MBC, where you can pause and, if desired, stay overnight before proceeding to ABC. The final stretch from MBC to Annapurna Base Camp is relatively flat, but the high altitude may affect your pace.

Upon reaching ABC, you'll be surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers within the Annapurna Sanctuary. Enjoy the panoramic views of Annapurna I and watch the sunset cast vibrant hues over the snow-covered mountains.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 10 Annapurna Base Camp > Bamboo (2,310m / 7,579ft)


approx. 5 to 6 hours trek

Rise early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks. As the sun's first light spills over the snow-capped mountains, it creates a stunning, painterly scene that is truly captivating. After enjoying this breathtaking view, savour a hot breakfast while taking in the majestic Himalayan panorama.

The return trek is largely downhill and straightforward. Gradually losing altitude, you'll make your way back to Bamboo Village, retracing your steps from the ascent.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 11 Bamboo > Jhinu Danda (1,780m / 5,840ft)


approx. 5 to 6 hours trek

Today's hike begins with a short climb from Bamboo Village, followed by a winding trail to Sinuwa Danda. Descend to the Chhomrong River and tackle the long stone steps to reach Chhomrong village. After a brief lunch in Chhomrong, continue to Jhinu village for the night.

Jhinu is renowned for its natural hot spring pools along the Modi River. Upon arrival, indulge in a relaxing soak in the hot springs, which will help soothe any muscle soreness from your trek. This natural spa experience is the perfect way to unwind and celebrate your adventure.

Accommodation: Tea House · Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + 1 hot drink at every meal

DAY 12 Jhinu Danda > Nayapul > Pokhara (910m / 2,986ft)


trek · 1 hour drive

On your final trekking day, enjoy the scenic hilly views of the Annapurna Conservation Area as you follow the Modi Khola. The trail is mostly flat, offering a pleasant walk to Birethanti village. After about an hour and a half on foot, you'll reach Nayapul. From there, a short drive will bring you back to Pokhara.

Accommodation: Hotel · Bed and Breakfast

DAY 13 Pokhara > Kathmandu


approx. 7 to 8 hours drive

Start your day with a journey back to Kathmandu, retracing the scenic highway you travelled earlier. Once at your hotel, relax and enjoy a very well-earned shower! Tonight, we will celebrate with evening drinks and dinner.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel · Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

DAY 14 Farewell!

It's your last day in Nepal! Today you will have an included airport transfer to catch your international flight home. Until next time...!


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