The North Annapurna Base Camp Trek brings you to off-the-beaten-path and secluded trekking terrain. The walk was utilized for excursions in 1950. Trekkers are largely unaware of the obstacles since they are more familiar with the conventional Annapurna base camp than the North base camp. The North Annapurna base camp hike allows you to explore nature and isolated living.
| Day | Acitivity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1400M) |
| Day 2 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822M) |
| Day 3 | Drive from Pokhara to Tatopani and Trek to Upper Narchyang (2140M) |
| Day 4 | Trek from Upper Narchyang to Chhotepa (2370M) |
| Day 5 | Trek from Chhotepa to Sadhi Kharka (3164M) |
| Day 6 | Trek from Sandhi Kharka to North Annapurna base camp (4190M) |
| Day 7 | Trek from North Annapurna base camp to Sandhi Kharka (3165M) |
| Day 8 | Trek from Sandhi Kharka to Thulo Bugin (3500M) |
| Day 9 | Trek from Thulo Bugin to Lete (2010M) |
| Day 10 | Drive from Lete to Pokhara (822M) |
| Day 11 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1400M) |
| Day 12 | Final Departure |
The north Annapurna base camp trek is a less trekked but beautiful and untoched destination for any trekker. The trail is also known for its steep ascents, tumbling waterfalls, and rivers flowing from the Annapurna glaciers, as well as the variety of bird and animal species that can be seen along the way. If you prefer to walk in secluded valleys with less tourists, genuine adventure, and beautiful mountain vistas with a hint of wildness, this is the route for you. You may begin your walk from either Narchyang or Chotepa, while the local road is in good condition you can drive to Chotepa otherwise start trekking from upper Narchyang. When it comes to hotels, food, and rest stops, this journey can be a little more demanding than the Southern ABC trek. You will need to camp in a tent or lodgings designed for trekkers, with no power, food, or other essential comforts.
This trekking trail is well-known for its breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna I (8,091m / 26,545ft), Gangapurna (7,455m / 24,457ft),Baraha Shikhar (Annapurna Fang Peak),Nilgiri and other notable peaks. The route runs through rich green forests of oak and pine, and various sceneries from lower subtropical woods to high-altitude desert forests. It is also notable for the Diki Cho Lake, which is located at the base camp (seen on feature photo above).
You will need to bring every cooking equipment with you and return everything you used to safeguard the environment since the locals believe in the notion of an eco-friendly journey. It's sometimes referred to as the Camping Trek. This trek begins in the Tatopani and may be easily reached from Pokhara or Beni. This walk winds through a dense rhododendron forest, pine trees, and alpine meadows, revealing a diverse diversity of flora and animals in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Trekkers can see musk deer, Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, and a variety of birds in their native habitats along this trek. The path travels past magnificent Gurung, Magar, and Thakali community villages nestled in the mountains.
Note: We provide a complete package with a guide, porter, assistant, and chef for your convenience, allowing you to enjoy your walk without worrying about anything.
The NABC Trek transports you back to a period when trekkers used off-beaten pathways for Annapurna - I mountain adventures, since this was the easier approach to Annapurna than the south route. Following the route's creation, hikers began to utilize it for trekking and adventures, and the route gained popularity. Following that, the path was blocked and reopened to trekkers lately, allowing them to immerse themselves in nature on Nepal's less congested trekking routes. The walk takes you through lush green deep valleys and rivers, alpine meadows, craggy glaciers, and lonely mountain communities, providing a true Himalayan trekking experience.
The North Annapurna base camp trekking route is not commercialize yet like the south base camp route. You can do the trek like a trekkers used to do back in 1980s. You will stay at tent or at Shed like small houses, cook a meals yourself or carry with you.
The North Annapurna base camp is a stunning classic location, surrounded by harsh terrain, high peaks, and large glaciers. With fewer trekkers on the trail, the trip seems more like a real wilderness adventure, making it an excellent alternative for anyone wishing to escape the throng and discover one of Nepal's best-kept trekking secrets.
North Annapurna base camp trek is one of the select hiking challenges that takes you to the lonely environment, and the whole ambiance of the journey transports you back in time. You may anticipate breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan ranges, glaciers, difficult terrains, wildlife creatures, unique flora and fauna, deep subtropical forests, and alpine meadows with glacial moraine. During the journey, you will get breathtaking vistas of Annapurna, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Nilgiri South, Tilitso Himal,Gangapurna, Mahendra Peak.
The trails are incredibly secluded; you will pass several suspension bridges and water streams along the way. You may observe cascading waterfalls including Phutphute waterfall, crimson waterfall, and many more waterfalls. You will travel through several locations such as Bisket Mela and Sadhi Kharka, Sky Cave, Sun Khola, and several others. There are no tea houses for lodging, therefore you will need to remain in a tent.
Alternatively, you can stay in wooden homes with mats for sleeping and prepare your own food while relaxing. There is also a lake in the NABC produced by the melting glaciers of the Annapurna, which is famed for its pure beauty and remains unknown by many.
The best time to trek the North Annapurna base camp and South Annapurna base camp is the same. All trekking routes have the same time to visit, giving trekkers an edge in enjoying their walk. You can come from September to November and February to May, which are the finest times to experience the amazing vistas of the Himalayan peaks.
The sky is clear, there are fewer people, and the weather is mild, which is beneficial for trekkers. During this season, there are several events that trekkers may visit and experience while also interacting with locals and enjoying themselves.
You may hike during the winter, including Manson, which is not recommended due to the harsh and cold weather, temperatures at night can reach -20 degrees Celsius, making it difficult to survive and acclimate properly. Similarly, during the month, there is heavy rain a high risk of floods in the water streams, and landslides in the hills, increasing the risk of death. However, each season has something special to offer you. You can learn more about the optimum seasons for trekking at Annapurna base camp.
To walk to the North Annapurna base camp, you will require two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permit. The permits serve as a passport to your journey to Annapurna, an untamed beauty.
The ACAP permit is utilized for conservation purposes, ensuring that the pristine environment is preserved for future trekkers. Similarly, the TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) acts as a safety precaution, allowing authorities to track trekkers' travels in isolated areas.
If you are from SAARC nations, the permit is USD 8, and if you are citizens of other countries the fee for ACAP and TIMS is USD 30, whereas SAARC is USD 5 and overseas nationals pay USD 15. These licenses may be obtained from the National Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
The North Annapurna base camp hike is a moderate journey that brings you to the heart of the Himalayas and the massive foothills of the Annapurna peak. The walk is not as established as other treks, and there are no lodgings or other services, so you will have to manage everything on your own. The path features steep ascents, rocky terrain, glacier crossings, and high-altitude conditions, making it ideal for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. Weather conditions can also be unexpected, adding to the challenge. To finish the journey, you will need to be physically healthy and well-acclimatized.
Packing is extremely important for the North ABC trip. You'll need to transport your gear, hiking equipment, cooking and eating supplies, and more. Warm and layered clothes, a high-quality sleeping bag (-20°C rated), waterproof trekking boots, and thermal innerwear are all essential items to pack in your luggage. Due to the rocky and snowy terrain, essential equipment such as trekking poles, crampons, a flashlight, and sunglasses are required. A backpack with a hydration system, energy bars, a first-aid kit, and altitude sickness medicine is also advised. In the event of illness, you must also carry a first aid kit. You can read our blog post "What to Pack for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?" You can employ a porter who will carry everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable walk through the difficulties.
North Annapurna base camp is on the other side of the popular south Annapurna base camp (Annapurna sanuatury) , hence its starting point is Tatopani or Lete. The distance between Pokhara and Narchyang is around 105 kilometers. Narchyang is well noted for its breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna South peak. It also serves as the Northern ABC's entryway. You may travel from Pokhara to Narchyang by hiring a car. Following that, you may begin your trip via secluded routes, passing through woods, rivers, and high-altitude passes. You may hire a professional guide to assist you with everything, allowing you to enjoy the walk without any worries.
The North Annapurna Base Camp and the Classic Annapurna Base Camp provide various hiking experiences. The famous path is well-established, with a network of teahouses that provide lodging and food, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
In comparison, the North Annapurna Base Camp is more difficult, and secluded, and necessitates a self-sufficient approach with camping supplies. While the south Annapurna Base Camp boasts lush forests, different settlements, and breathtaking mountain vistas, the northern route is more rocky, wild, and off-the-beaten path. Trekkers wanting adventure and isolation frequently pick the North Annapurna Base Camp, while others seeking a more planned and picturesque trip choose the conventional route.
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Upon arriving in the region of the Himalayas, Nepal's capital city, you will be greeted by a business representative and transported to the hotel, which is 15 kilometers away and takes 25 to 30 minutes. Check into your accommodation, then freshen up and rest. Meet our guide at the hotel for a hike briefing. In the evening, visit the adjacent Thamel restaurant, stores, cafés, and souvenirs. Then stay overnight at the Thamel hotel.
| Food | Welcome Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 3 Star Hotel |
| Elevation | 1400 |
On the second day, get up early and prepare for the travel to Pokhara, Nepal's second-largest city and renowned as the gateway to the Himalayas. After breakfast, check out of the hotel and travel to Pokhara, which takes around 6 to 7 hours by car; you may alternatively take a 25-minute flight from Kathmandu. On the journey, take in the beautiful scenery of the hills village, and river. Stop for a quick tea and lunch break before continuing on to Pokhara. When you arrive in Pokhara, check into a hotel near Phewa Lake. Freshen up and enjoy an evening walk around the lake. Final hike preparations and overnight stay at the hotel.
| Food | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 3 Star Hotel |
| Elevation | 822 |
Wake up early and travel to Tatopani after breakfast, going through gorgeous woodland and towns. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours. When you arrive at Tatopani, pause for lunch and a natural hot spring bath before continuing your climb to Upper Narchyang, passing through lovely towns and waterfalls. Arrive at upper Narchyang, relax in the tea house after a warm meal, and prepare for the next day's hike.
| Food | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Camping |
| Elevation | 2140 |
Wake up early in the morning, then prepare for the trip in the tea house before continuing through the deep forest, crossing tiny streams, and wooden bridges. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. Watch for animals and birds along the way. Chhotepa may be reached after a moderate climb lasting 4 to 5 hours. Set up camp upon arrival and spend the night in the camp tent following dinner.
| Food | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Camping |
| Elevation | 2370 |
Early morning wake-up, followed by a hearty meal, begins an uphill journey through the rhododendron woodland. Enjoy the gorgeous mountain views along the route. While crossing the high-altitude fields and meadows, take a quick pause at the overlook to snap photographs. Sandhi Kharka may be reached after a 5 to 6-hour journey. Rest and sleep at the tent camp.
| Food | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Camping |
| Elevation | 3164 |
On this day, get up early after breakfast and climb to Annapurna North Base Camp, which should take about 6 to 7 hours depending on your speed. Pass across rugged and alpine terrain to reach Base Camp. Enjoy the magnificent picture of Annapurna Massif. Take a snapshot and tour the site after spending the night at the Tented camp.
| Food | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Camping |
| Elevation | 4190 |
Wake up early in the morning to watch the sunrise over the Himalayan range, then descend from the base camp after breakfast. Take a stop along the walk and admire the scenery of the mountain. Reach Sandhi Kharka, then set up a tent camp and spend the night.
| Food | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Camping |
| Elevation | 3165 |
The travel to Bugin begins with an early morning wake-up after breakfast. Walking along the distant and undisturbed route, you can see the different vegetation and wildlife. Take in the scenery along the route, including the snow-capped summit. When you get to Thulo Bugin, stay overnight in the camp tent.
| Food | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Camping |
| Elevation | 3500 |
Wake up early in the morning, then descend through the forest after breakfast. On the trip, take in the changing landscape and pleasant temperature. After passing past the traditional village, go along the riverbed and mountain slopes to reach Lete. Upon arriving, check into a lodge/tea house. After a warm dinner, stay overnight at Leta.
| Food | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Guest House |
| Elevation | 2010 |
Wake up early in the morning and travel back to Pokhara after breakfast, which takes around 6 to 7 hours. On the way, stop for lunch at a mountain town and see the stunning view of the deep valley. When you get to Pokhara, rest and refresh yourself. In the evening, visit lakefront restaurants and cafés before going shopping for souvenirs.
| Food | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 3 Star Hotel |
| Elevation | 822 |
Wake up early and drive to Kathmandu after breakfast. On the way, stop at Scenic Sport for a tea break and lunch. When you arrive in Kathmandu Valley, check into your accommodation. In the evening, go to the Thamel market to get items to remember. Farewell supper at a traditional Nepali restaurant with a cultural program, followed by an overnight stay at the Thamel hotel.
| Food | Breakfast and Farewell Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 3 Star Hotel |
| Elevation | 1400 |
On this day, get up early, have breakfast at the hotel, and then check out and transfer to the airport for your departure. Final farewell to Nepal, filled with fond memories of the journey of a lifetime.
| Food | Breakfast |
|---|
There are no tea houses or lodgings at the North Annapurna base camp, as there are at south ABC trekking route. However, you may find a basic tea house where you can just stay by carrying everything you need for cooking, sleeping, and resting. You will need to obtain any necessary facilities for the lodgings; everything must be done on your own. However, you will discover some of the mats that the hikers have left for other walkers. However, it is highly encouraged that you bring your own sleeping bags, food, and any cooking supplies.
You will not find any drink or beverage shops. You will be responsible for transporting and preparing energy drinks, tea, and coffee. You will be able to obtain drinking water, which may be contaminated, therefore you should bring a purification tablet with you. You will encounter several water streams from which you may fill your water bottle, clean it, and drink. Taps near the basic lodges will allow you to fill your water and cook.
You can perform solo hiking here, however it is not encouraged. It is difficult to navigate since the trials are isolated and uncharted. You will need a fully qualified guide who can direct you through the hike while also ensuring your safety. You may hire a porter to carry all of your backpacks, cooking supplies, and sleeping gear so that you can walk through the challenges at your leisure.
Adventure Vision Treks is a trekking company in Nepal that mostly organizes tours and tourism activities. We have skilled crews available to assist and support our trekkers when they are in need. We provide a personalized trekking schedule so you may explore the walk at your speed without worrying about anything. We constantly prioritize the safety of our trekkers, therefore everything we organize is safe and secure. We provide the finest value for money trip to hikers. We are committed to providing our trekkers with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
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