Annapurna Base Camp Trek

About this trail

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek cuts through the heart of Nepal's Gandaki Pradesh, following the Modi Khola river gorge into the Annapurna Sanctuary — a vast natural amphitheater enclosed by some of the highest peaks on earth. The route moves through terraced farmland and dense rhododendron forest before narrowing into bamboo groves, and then the valley walls fall back to reveal a close-up panorama of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli that is genuinely hard to rival anywhere in the world. No technical alpine skill is required, but it demands good cardiovascular fitness, a steady head on steep terrain, and respect for altitude. This is a full teahouse trek, meaning you sleep and eat in lodges every night without carrying camping gear — though accommodation gets more basic and significantly more expensive the higher you go, so bring extra cash and a few emergency snacks. The trail is well-traveled and signposted, making navigation straightforward in clear weather; fog or snow can disorient on the upper sections. October to November offers the most reliable skies and crisp visibility; March and April bring blooming rhododendrons and warmer days. Avoid the monsoon months from June through August, when landslide risk on exposed ridges is serious, leeches colonize the forest sections, and trails become treacherously muddy. The final approach into the Sanctuary is the most committing stretch — rocky, sometimes icy in early morning, and sitting beneath real avalanche exposure — so early starts and close attention to mountain weather are non-negotiable. Both an ACAP permit and a TIMS card are required and easily obtained in Pokhara before the trailhead.