This blog is updated in August 2025 as per the latest route. Complete information about how to reach Annapurna base camp trek? This blog is for both group trekkers and solo trekkers. Knowing the route before going on a trek upgrades your experience of trekking in the Nepal Himalaya.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is a famous trekking destination in Nepal, giving breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalaya, a diversified landscape of forests, towns, rivers, and hot springs, and a rich cultural experience with the Gurung and Magar people. In this article, I will discuss the methods to reach Annapurna Base Camp, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and some advice to make your journey more pleasurable and safe.
Recommended Read: Best Time To Visit Annapurna Base Camp
There are two base camps of Annapurna that can be trekked. You can trek to North AnnapurnaBase Camp and South Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). Here we are going to discuss the method of reaching South Annapurna base camp. Which is also a common and popular trekking route, and generally people understand ABC treks to mean reaching the south base camp of Annapurna, which is located at the altitude of 4130 m from sea level, whereas north ABC is located at 4190 m. Elevation-wise, both seem similar for trekking. But reaching the south base camp is easier due to facilities.
South Base Camp is a popular trekking route, and there are lots of tea houses available every few hours’ walk. So, you should carry basic eating and sleeping items. The North Base Camp Trek is a camping trek. So, you need to carry all the basic things yourself, you need to cook yourself, and you need to sleep in a tent.
Hereafter I will mention the south base camp as Annapurna base camp or ABC.
Table of Contents
Tea houses in Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Jhinu Danda: Up to here you can take a vehicle via Pokhara. Tea houses and lodge facilities are available here.
Chhomrong: Hilltop village with lots of hotels, tea houses, and lodges.
Lower Sinwa: There are facilities for restaurants and tea houses.
Upper Sinwa: Few tea houses available with full facilities for lodging and food.
Bamboo: There are several tea houses and restaurants.
Dovan: Few tea houses with basic facilities like lodging and food.
Bamboo: Few tea houses with facilities like lodging and restaurants.
Dovan: Few teahouses with lodging and food.
Machhapuchhre base camp: few guest houses and tea houses.
ABC: Few tea houses with facilities for restaurants and lodging.
Note: After crossing Upper Sinwa, there are no other places or local houses except the mentioned places.
Permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
You need two permits to reach Annapurna base camp. To explore the journey, you must have both permits. ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System).
Let’s discuss the methods for reaching ABC.
Option 1: Trekking from Pokhara
The most common and budget-friendly way to reach Annapurna Base Camp is by trekking from Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. Pokhara Valley is a beautiful lakeside city that offers many attractions and activities for travelers, such as boating, paragliding, bungee jumping, and visiting temples and museums. You can easily get to Pokhara from Kathmandu by bus, flight, or private car.
From Pokhara, you have several options to start your trek to ABC. The most direct route goes through Nayapool, Ghandruk, Chomrong, Himalaya Hotel, and Machapuchare Base Camp. This ABC trekking route takes about 6 to 7 days to complete, depending on your pace and acclimatization. You can also extend your trek by combining it with other routes in the Annapurna region, such as Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, or the Annapurna Circuit.
Another route goes through Pokhara Nayapool, Poon Hill, Ghanruk, Himalaya, MBC, and ABC; it takes around 12 to 13 days to complete.
Recommended Read: Top 10 Places to Visit in Annapurna Base Camp
The main advantages of trekking via Pokhara are:
- Along the route, you can take in the scenic splendor and cultural richness of the Annapurna region.
- There are numerous trekking itineraries to suit your preferences and skills.
- interact with local to know their lifestyles, beliefs, and cultures
- You can stay in cozy guest houses (also known as tea houses) that offer basic amenities, including beds, blankets, toilets, baths, and food.
- You may help the local economy while also interacting with the lovely inhabitants.
The following are the primary disadvantages of trekking from Pokhara
- You need to travel via road or by airplane up upto Pokhara and need to drive to Jhinu or trekking starting point
- If you are not trekking with a trekking agency, there is a chance of getting lost or not getting rooms to stay in during peak season.
Recommended Read: Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance
Option 2: Helicopter Flight from Kathmandu or Pokhara
If you are short on time or prefer not to trek, you can take a helicopter journey to Annapurna Base Camp. This is a pricey yet exciting way to get to ABC in a matter of hours. By chartering a helicopter, you may fly directly from Kathmandu or Pokhara to ABC. The helicopter will take you over the spectacular Himalayan terrain before landing at ABC for roughly 15 minutes. Before flying back, you can take in the panoramic views of the Alps and take some shots.
The main advantages of flying by helicopter are
- You can save time and energy by skipping the long and strenuous trek.
- You can experience the thrill of flying over the world’s highest peaks.
- You can avoid the crowds and enjoy the solitude of ABC.
The main disadvantages of flying by helicopter are:
- You need to pay a hefty price for the flight. The cost ranges from US$500 to US$2000 per person, depending on the number of passengers and the season.
- You need to book your flight in advance and be flexible with your schedule. The flight is subject to weather conditions and availability.
- You need to be prepared for possible altitude sickness. The sudden change in elevation can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
- As you will reach base camp by heli, you can not interact with the people or culture of Annapurna region
- You will miss the feeling of trekking in Nepal Himalaya
Recommended Read: Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost
Tips for Reaching Annapurna Base Camp
Whichever option you choose to reach Annapurna Base Camp, here are some tips to make your trip more enjoyable and safe:
- Plan your vacation ahead of time. Investigate the best time to visit ABC, reserve your accommodations and transportation in advance, pack your essentials, and obtain travel insurance.
- Respect the culture and environment of your surroundings.
- Follow the Annapurna Sanctuary National Park’s rules and regulations, dress modestly, ask permission before photographing people or locations, don’t litter or make noise, and don’t hurt any plants or animals.
- Drink plenty of water and eat healthy. Drink plenty of water and stay away from alcohol and coffee. Consume a well-balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Drink only boiled or purified water, and avoid eating raw or uncooked foods.
- Take it easy and pay attention to your body. Don’t push yourself too far or too quickly. Take regular pauses and take some time to relax. If you have any altitude sickness symptoms, descend immediately and get medical attention.
Trekking In Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a dream destination for many travelers who want to witness the beauty and majesty of the Himalayas. There are different ways to reach ABC, each with its own pros and cons. You can choose the option that suits your budget, time, and adventure level. No matter how you get there, you will surely have an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Photos on the way to ABC
Seeing these photos also helps you to know about how to reach Annapurna Base Camp.
Do you want to see more photos of the Annapurna Base trek? Check out these Annapurna Base Camp Trek photos.
We suggest reading Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek for choosing the right time to trek and making your journey memorable and easy too.