Annapurna Base Camp Trek
A trek into one of the most spectacular mountain amphitheaters on Earth — a 360-degree ring of giant peaks above 7,000m.
Distance
75 km
Duration
10 days
Elevation Gain
3,100m
Max Elevation
4,130m
Min Elevation
1,070m
Highest Point
Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Season
October-November, March-May
Route Type
Point to Point
Permit Required
Yes
Permit Cost
USD 40
Permit Information
ACAP permit (NPR 3,000) and TIMS card (NPR 2,000) required
The Annapurna Base Camp trek culminates in one of the most spectacular mountain amphitheaters on Earth — a 360-degree ring of giant peaks including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Gangapurna (7,455m), all towering above the glacial basin at 4,130m.
The trail begins in the subtropical lowlands near Pokhara, climbing through terraced farmland and the beautiful Gurung villages of Ghandruk and Chhomrong. Beyond Chhomrong, the route enters the Modi Khola gorge, passing through dense bamboo forest before emerging above the treeline at Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The final stretch crosses moraine and glacial terrain.
Teahouse accommodation is excellent throughout. The trek can be combined with Poon Hill for a comprehensive 12-15 day itinerary. Early starts are crucial for the best views, as clouds often build by mid-morning in spring.