The Annapurna Base Camp trek climbs from subtropical terraces to a glacial amphitheatre ringed by seven peaks above 7,000 m. It is the most rewarding teahouse trek in Nepal for the time it takes, with comfortable lodges every few hours and no technical climbing.
You walk with a licensed guide and a porter for every two trekkers, in a small group capped at 12, at a pace that leaves a full rest day-equivalent for acclimatisation. Altitude is gained gradually, with a sleep at 2,170 m, 3,200 m and 3,700 m before the final push to 4,130 m.
Trip highlights
Sunrise over Annapurna South from the Ghandruk viewpoint
The 2,000-step stone staircase to Chomrong
Machapuchare (Fishtail) Base Camp at 3,700 m
Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 m with 360° views
Soak tired legs in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
Gurung hospitality: home-cooked dal bhat and village homestays
Who is this trip for?
Reasonably fit walkers who can hike 5–7 hours a day for a week. No previous trekking experience is required, but a few weeks of cardio training makes a big difference at altitude.
