Annapurna Base Camp Trek Guide 2027: Route, Permits, Best Season and Cost
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek takes you into a high basin ringed by Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhare and a wall of other Himalayan peaks. The highest point is about 4,130 m. The path is well marked, tea houses are never far apart, and no climbing skills are needed, so it is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. Our 13-day version also walks through Ghorepani for the Poon Hill sunrise, which makes the trip longer but much more varied.
The short version
- Highest point: Annapurna Base Camp, about 4,130 m
- Our trip: 13 days in total, with 9 days on the trail from Nayapul back to Nayapul
- Difficulty: moderate. Long stone staircases and a steady climb in the last two days, but no technical sections
- Best seasons: March to May and late September to November
- Our price: from US$923 per person, with a 20% deposit to secure the booking
Our 13-day route, day by day
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (about 1,350 m). We meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.
Day 2: Kathmandu preparation day. Gear check, permits and a briefing with your guide.
Day 3: Travel to Pokhara (about 820 m). The lake town is the last place with a full range of shops before the trail.
Day 4: Drive to Nayapul, trek to Ulleri (about 2,050 m). The first day is short, 4 to 5 hours, but the stone steps climb steadily.
Day 5: Ulleri to Ghorepani (about 2,860 m). 5 to 6 hours through rhododendron forest.
Day 6: Poon Hill sunrise, then Tadapani. Poon Hill is about 3,210 m, and the first light on Annapurna and Dhaulagiri is worth the early start. Then 6 to 7 hours to Tadapani (about 2,630 m).
Day 7: Tadapani to Chhomrong (about 2,170 m). 5 to 6 hours, with a long descent and climb through forest to the village that looks straight at Annapurna South.
Day 8: Chhomrong to Himalaya (or Dovan) (about 2,600 to 2,920 m). 5 to 6 hours up the Modi Khola valley as it narrows.
Day 9: Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (about 4,130 m). 6 to 7 hours past Deurali and Machhapuchhare Base Camp. You can split this day with a night at Deurali or Machhapuchhare Base Camp if you want more time to acclimatize.
Day 10: Sunrise at Base Camp, then down to Bamboo (about 2,310 m). 6 to 7 hours of descent.
Day 11: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (about 1,780 m). 5 to 6 hours. Many trekkers soak in the hot springs here.
Day 12: Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara. 2 to 3 hours on foot, then the drive.
Day 13: Return to Kathmandu (about 1,350 m). This spare day keeps your flight home safe if a delay happens.
How hard is it?
Moderate. Walking days are 4 to 7 hours, with thousands of stone steps, and the last two days climb quickly above 3,000 m. Good boots and a slow pace matter more than speed. The main risk is altitude: drink plenty of water, climb slowly, and tell your guide at once about a headache, nausea or poor sleep. A guide is recommended, and a porter is available on request.
Permits you need
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP) and a TIMS trekker registration card. ACAP is about NPR 3,000 (roughly US$20 to US$25) when bought in advance, and TIMS is about NPR 1,000 through an agency, or NPR 2,000 independently. We arrange both for you and confirm the fees when you book. Our Nepal trekking permits guide explains each permit in detail.
Best time to go
March to May is warm, with rhododendrons in bloom on the lower trail. Late September to November has the clearest mountain views and the most stable weather. June to August is monsoon, with rain, cloud and leeches, and winter is cold and snowy at the top. Our best time to trek in Nepal guide compares the seasons.
What does it cost?
Our 13-day Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from US$923 per person, and the final price is confirmed when you book. You pay cash separately for meals, drinks, hot showers, phone charging and tips, and you must arrange travel insurance that covers trekking to at least 4,500 m, medical treatment and helicopter evacuation. Our ABC trek cost breakdown shows where the money goes.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
Most itineraries spend 7 to 12 days on the trail. Our 13-day trip includes the days in Kathmandu and Pokhara, nine days of walking, and a spare day at the end.
Is the ABC trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, if you are healthy and used to walking several hours a day. The path is well marked, and tea houses are never far. The long staircases and the altitude are what make it hard, so go slowly.
Do I need a guide for Annapurna Base Camp?
A guide is not required, but we recommend one. A guide handles permits, bookings and weather changes, watches for altitude problems, and supports local jobs.
Can I do a shorter trek with similar views?
Yes. The Poon Hill trek is shorter and still gives big mountain views. See our Poon Hill trek guide.
Ready to plan it? See the Annapurna Base Camp trek package, or message us on WhatsApp +81 70 2232 4287.
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