North Annapurna Base Camp Trek
based on 208 reviews
Itinerary of North Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Your Himalayan adventure begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel.
As you settle into your comfortable accommodation, you’ll experience the unique charm of this vibrant city, steeped in history and culture. Take some time to relax after your journey or explore the nearby sights. Thamel, a lively district, offers plenty of shops, cafes, and traditional Nepali restaurants.
If you’re feeling up to it, you can also visit landmarks like the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, or indulge in a traditional Nepali dinner. This day allows you to unwind and prepare for the trek ahead.
After breakfast in Kathmandu, you will take a scenic flight to Pokhara, a picturesque city nestled beside Phewa Lake and surrounded by stunning views of the Himalayas.
The half-hour flight provides breathtaking aerial vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this laid-back lakeside city, which is famous for its serene atmosphere and vibrant markets.
You may choose to take a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit the peaceful World Peace Pagoda, or simply stroll through the bustling Lakeside area, where shops, cafes, and restaurants line the streets.
This day offers a calm and refreshing break, allowing you to unwind before the trekking adventure begins. You will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Pokhara, enjoying the relaxed vibe of this beautiful city.
Following breakfast, you will begin a scenic 5-hour drive to Narchyang Village, situated in the heart of the Annapurna region.
The drive offers incredible views of terraced fields, verdant forests, and traditional villages, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of rural Nepali communities. As the road takes you deeper into the Annapurna region, you’ll experience the shift from urban life to the more peaceful, rural environment of the mountains.
Upon arriving at Narchyang Village, you will be welcomed into a cozy homestay. This experience allows you to interact with the local villagers, offering a unique insight into their traditional way of life.
The homestay provides a home-cooked meal, offering an authentic taste of Nepali cuisine. Spending the night in Narchyang, surrounded by the warm hospitality of your hosts and the tranquility of the village, is a perfect way to connect with the local culture and prepare for the trek ahead.
Today, your trekking journey truly begins as you set off from Narchyang Village and head towards Chottepa, a trek that will take approximately 7 hours.
The trail leads you through dense forests filled with rhododendrons, oaks, and pines, creating a vibrant and refreshing environment. Along the way, you’ll pass cascading waterfalls and cross clear mountain streams, offering natural beauty at every turn.
The trek also provides opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, including different bird species and the occasional sighting of the Himalayan tahr, a wild goat native to the region.
As you approach Chottepa, you’ll set up camp for the night, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. The peaceful atmosphere and the sounds of the forest make this first night of camping a serene experience.
With the sky full of stars overhead, you’ll enjoy a restful night in preparation for the days ahead.
The trek continues today as you make your way to Sandikharka, which sits at an elevation of 3160 meters. This 5-6 hour trek takes you through stunning alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.
As you climb higher, the vistas of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Nilgiri become more expansive, providing incredible photo opportunities.
Along the trail, you’ll encounter local shepherds tending to their livestock in the high pastures, offering a unique perspective on the traditional lifestyle that has been practiced in these mountains for centuries.
After reaching Sandikharka, you will set up camp with a backdrop of magnificent mountain views, enjoying the serene surroundings and the beauty of the Annapurna region.
Today’s trek is a challenging yet rewarding ascent to High Camp, located at 4050 meters. The steep climb takes approximately 5 hours and will push your endurance, but the stunning views of the Annapurna range make it all worthwhile.
As you ascend, the rugged terrain becomes more dramatic, with towering peaks surrounding you on all sides.
Once you reach High Camp, you’ll set up camp in a high-altitude setting with incredible views of the Himalayas. This is the perfect time to acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for the next day’s trek to North Annapurna Base Camp.
The night is spent under a sky filled with stars, with the crisp mountain air providing a refreshing atmosphere after the day’s exertions.
The highlight of your trekking adventure arrives as you make your way to North Annapurna Base Camp, sitting at an elevation of 4190 meters.
This 7-hour trek will take you through rugged landscapes as you approach the base of Annapurna I, the 10th highest mountain in the world. Reaching the base camp is an incredible achievement, offering awe-inspiring close-up views of the towering peaks and glaciers.
After spending time at the base camp, soaking in the breathtaking scenery, you’ll continue on to Thulobugin Pass, which sits at 4310 meters.
The pass offers even more spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayas, making it a perfect spot for photography. You’ll camp near Thulobugin Pass, surrounded by the grandeur of the Annapurna range, as you reflect on the incredible journey to base camp.
Today, you’ll begin your descent from Thulobugin Pass to Ghasa, a trek that takes around 6 hours. The trail leads you through a variety of terrains, including lush forests, meadows, and river valleys.
Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional villages, where you can observe the local way of life, as well as encounter stunning waterfalls that add to the beauty of the journey.
After reaching Ghasa, you’ll drive back to Pokhara, a 6-hour journey that takes you back to the comforts of the lakeside city.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll check into a comfortable hotel, where you can relax and unwind after the physically demanding trek. Pokhara’s serene atmosphere, with its scenic views and laid-back vibe, provides the perfect setting for reflecting on your trekking adventure.
After a leisurely morning in Pokhara, you will take a scenic one-hour flight back to Kathmandu. As you fly over the Himalayas, you’ll get one last look at the majestic peaks that have been your companions throughout the trek.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll embark on a guided sightseeing tour of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple).
In the afternoon, you’ll have time to explore Kathmandu’s vibrant markets, where you can pick up souvenirs or enjoy local street food.
In the evening, you’ll celebrate your successful trek with a farewell dinner, indulging in traditional Nepali cuisine and reflecting on the incredible experiences of your journey.
On your final day in Nepal, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
As you depart from Kathmandu, you’ll carry with you the unforgettable memories of your North Annapurna Base Camp Trek, from the stunning mountain landscapes to the warm hospitality of the local people. This trekking adventure will remain a cherished experience for years to come.
Reviews on North Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Be first to post a review in this trip.
Related Trips
