⇀ Starts: 

Pokhara (7:00 AM – Pick-up from your hotel)

↼ Ends: 

Pokhara (Approximately 5:00 PM – Drop-off at your hotel)

Transportation Details

Your trek to Annapurna Base Camp conveniently begins and ends in Pokhara. We'll handle your ground transportation to and from the trailhead:

• To the Trailhead: On Day 1, we'll pick you up directly from your hotel in Pokhara at approximately 7:00 AM. You'll travel by shared jeep to Jhinu Danda, where your first day's hike towards Sinuwa begins.
• From the Trailhead: After completing your trek, a shared jeep from Jhinu Danda will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Pokhara. This return journey is included in your package.

Starting from Kathmandu?

If you're in Kathmandu and prefer a more comprehensive start to your adventure, we have an Annapurna Base Camp package that begins directly from Kathmandu! This option includes your transfers to Pokhara, ensuring a seamless journey from the capital. Perhaps this package will suit you?

If you opt for this Pokhara-centric package, please inform us if you're in Kathmandu. We recommend taking a morning flight to Pokhara a day before your trek is scheduled to start. 

Please note: flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara and associated transfers are not part of this standard package and will incur an additional cost.

Pre-Trek Briefing

To ensure you're fully prepared, a mandatory pre-trek briefing will be held the day before your departure. This is your chance to meet your trekking guide, receive crucial last-minute instructions, and get answers to any questions you might have.

To help us arrange your pick-up and briefing seamlessly, please provide your hotel name and location in Pokhara (or Kathmandu, if that's where you'll be starting from).

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) 5-day trek offers not just breathtaking scenery but also an authentic glimpse into Himalayan life through its unique teahouse culture. Your comfort and energy are paramount on this challenging journey, and we've ensured your accommodation throughout the trek is included in your package, providing peace of mind as you ascend towards the heart of the Annapurnas.

Teahouse Accommodation in ABC Trek

Along the popular ABC trekking routes, your nightly stays will be in cozy teahouses (lodges or guesthouses), run by local families. These establishments are specifically designed to cater to trekkers, offering essential amenities after a day on the trail.

• Simple & Serene Rooms: Expect clean, unheated twin-sharing rooms. Each room typically features two single beds with a mattress, pillow, and a warm blanket. While blankets are provided, we highly recommend bringing your own high-quality sleeping bag for added warmth, especially during cooler months or at higher elevations like Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) (3,700m) and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (4,130m). This also ensures personal hygiene during your high-altitude trekking in Nepal.

• Shared Facilities & Hot Water: Most teahouses, particularly as you gain elevation, utilize shared bathroom facilities. These can vary, so be prepared for both squat and Western-style toilets. Hot showers are usually available for an additional fee (approx. NPR 150-350 / USD $1.5-$3) and may be limited to specific times or reliance on solar power. At the highest points like ABC, hot showers are a rare luxury.

• Warm Common Areas: The heart of every teahouse is its inviting common dining hall, often warmed by a traditional wood-burning stove (Bukhari) in the evenings. This communal space is perfect for relaxing, sharing stories with fellow trekkers, and enjoying the camaraderie of the mountains.

• Power & Connectivity: While electricity is generally available for lighting, charging electronic devices often incurs a small extra cost (approx. NPR 100-300 / USD $1-$3 per hour/device), especially in higher, more remote locations. Wi-Fi might also be available for a fee, but expect slower speeds and intermittent service.

Foods in the ABC Trek

Your ABC Trek food experience is designed to provide the energy needed for daily ascents and descents. Teahouse menus offer a variety of options, though choices become more focused and prices increase with altitude due to the challenging logistics of supply.

• The Power of Dal Bhat: The undisputed champion of foods in Annapurna Base Camp is Dal Bhat. This staple Nepali meal of steamed rice, nourishing lentil soup, and a side of vegetable curry (sometimes with pickles or a small portion of meat) is incredibly filling, provides sustained energy, and is often offered with unlimited refills – making it both economical and a trekker's best friend!

• Popular Menu Items: Beyond Dal Bhat, you'll find a range of familiar dishes. Expect various noodle dishes (Chowmein, Thukpa - a hearty Tibetan noodle soup), pasta, and flavorful dumplings (Momos) with vegetable or meat fillings. Fried rice (vegetable, egg, chicken) is also a common choice.

• Warm Soups & Healthy Starts: A bowl of garlic soup (often recommended for acclimatization), along with tomato, mushroom, and vegetable soups, provides warmth and nourishment. For breakfast, indulge in pancakes (plain, banana, apple), traditional Tibetan bread, porridge/oatmeal, toast, and various egg preparations.

• Cost Variation for Meals (Approximate Ranges):

• Lower Altitudes (Jhinu Danda, Sinuwa): Meals generally range from NPR 600 - 900 (approx. USD $4.5 - $7) per main dish.

• Mid-Altitudes (Bamboo, Dovan, Deurali): Prices increase, typically NPR 800 - 1,200 (approx. USD $6 - $9) per main dish.

• Higher Altitudes (MBC, ABC): Expect to pay NPR 1,000 - 1,500+ (approx. USD $7.5 - $11.5+) per main dish.

• Beverages (Approximate Costs):

• Tea/Coffee: NPR 100 - 350 (approx. USD $0.75 - $3) per cup (higher for milk tea or coffee).

• Hot Water: NPR 50 - 200 (approx. USD $0.4 - $1.5) per liter (crucial for hydration).

• Bottled Water/Soft Drinks: NPR 100 - 400 (approx. USD $0.75 - $3.5) per bottle (prices rise significantly with altitude). To save costs and minimize plastic waste, we strongly encourage using water purification tablets or a personal filter bottle.

• Digestion & Safety: Opting for vegetarian foods in Annapurna Base Camp is often a wise choice, especially at higher altitudes. This can aid digestion and reduce the risk of stomach issues, as the supply of fresh meat can be less consistent in remote areas. Bringing a few personal snacks like energy bars, chocolates, and nuts from Pokhara can also offer quick boosts of energy between meals.

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

Considering the compressed timeframe, the 5-day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is generally rated as Moderate to Challenging. This itinerary demands a good level of physical fitness and a resilient mindset, making it ideal for experienced trekkers or highly fit individuals seeking an intense yet immensely rewarding Himalayan adventure.

Several key factors contribute to the ABC Trek difficulty:

Rapid Altitude Gain (AMS Risk): The most significant challenge of this short ABC trek is the rapid ascent to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,550 ft). Covering a substantial elevation gain over just three days of uphill trekking significantly increases the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Trekkers must prioritize slow pacing, proper hydration, and diligent self-monitoring for symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness.

Long Trekking Hours & Stamina: Expect demanding days with 6-7 hours of walking on average, especially on Days 1 and 2, and Day 4's long descent. This requires sustained endurance and strong physical preparation. The itinerary is designed to maximize trekking time, leaving less room for leisurely breaks or extensive acclimatization.

Varied & Demanding Terrain: The trail to Annapurna Sanctuary features a mix of well-trodden paths, steep stone steps (especially challenging on ascents and descents around villages like Chhomrong), rocky sections, and occasional muddy patches (during monsoon or shoulder seasons). This diverse terrain constantly tests your agility and leg strength, making it a physically demanding trek.

Essential Fitness Level: While technical climbing skills aren't required, a strong cardiovascular base and robust leg muscles are crucial. Activities like long-distance running, hiking with a backpack, cycling, or stair climbing in the months leading up to your trek will be highly beneficial. This is not typically recommended as a first high-altitude trek in Nepal for beginners.

Basic Facilities at High Camps: While accommodation in ABC Trek is included, the teahouse facilities at higher elevations (like Deurali, MBC, and ABC) are basic. The lack of consistent heating in rooms, limited hot water, and shared bathroom facilities can add to the overall challenge for some trekkers.

Despite these trekking challenges, the unparalleled beauty of the Annapurna panoramic views from the heart of the Himalayas makes the 5-day ABC trek an incredibly worthwhile endeavor for those prepared to embrace its intensity. It's an immersive experience that pushes your limits and rewards you with unforgettable memories.

Weather & Temperature on the Annapurna Base Camp 5-Day Trek

The weather in Annapurna Base Camp and along its challenging 5-day route is highly dependent on the season, directly impacting your trekking experience. Conditions can vary significantly from the lower, subtropical foothills to the high-alpine environment of the sanctuary. Expect crisp mornings, potentially warm and sunny days, and noticeably cold nights as you ascend. At Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,550 ft) itself, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. During the peak seasons, daytime temperatures at ABC generally range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), while nighttime temperatures consistently drop below freezing, often between 0°C to -12°C (32°F to 10°F), requiring proper layering and a quality sleeping bag. Lower down the trail, near Jhinu Danda (1,780m), daytime temperatures can be a pleasant 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), but still cool off considerably in the evenings. Always pack layers to adapt to the changing climate across different altitudes.

Best Time to Trek: Optimal Seasons for Your ABC Adventure

For the 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek, the best time to trek is during the two primary trekking seasons: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These periods offer the most favorable ABC Trek weather conditions, maximizing your chances of clear skies and spectacular mountain views.

• Spring (March-May): This season brings stable weather, moderate temperatures, and the added beauty of blooming rhododendron forests. Days are generally clear, offering excellent visibility of the Annapurna panoramic views. Temperatures at ABC in March can be around 4°C (39°F) during the day, warming up to 10-15°C (50-59°F) by May. Nights remain cold, dropping to -12°C (10°F) in March and around 0°C (32°F) in May. Occasional pre-monsoon showers might occur in late May, but they are usually brief.
• Autumn (September-November): Widely considered the prime trekking season, Autumn follows the monsoon, leaving behind a freshly washed, crisp environment with incredibly clear skies and outstanding visibility. Day temperatures at ABC in September are around 5-10°C (41-50°F), cooling to 0-10°C (32-50°F) in October, and -4°C to 8°C (25-46°F) in November. Nighttime temperatures can plummet to -6°C (21°F) in October and -10°C (14°F) in November. This period provides ideal conditions for enjoying the magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary without the extreme cold of winter or the heavy rains of monsoon season.

While it's technically possible to trek year-round, the monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and obscured views, and winter (December-February) can involve significant snowfall, extremely cold temperatures, and potential trail closures, making the 5-day itinerary especially challenging and riskier during these off-peak months.

To get fit for the 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek:

• Cardio is Key: Start cardiovascular training 8-12 weeks beforehand. Aim for 3-4 sessions/week (45-60 min each) of brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming.
• Hike! Incorporate hiking with a loaded daypack (5-7 kg) on varied terrain, especially with hills or stairs, at least once a week.
• Strength Training: Focus on leg and core strength (squats, lunges, planks) 2-3 times/week to build endurance for ascents and descents.
• Stair Climbing: Use stairs or a stair-master regularly – a fantastic way to mimic trail conditions.
• Listen to Your Body: Gradually increase intensity and duration. Don't overtrain.
• Stay Hydrated: Practice good hydration habits even before the trek.

Packing smart is key for your 5-day ABC trek. Here's your essential Annapurna Base Camp equipment list, focusing on lightweight, versatile Himalayan trekking essentials to keep you comfortable from warm lowlands to freezing high camps.

Clothing & Layers

• Headwear: Sun hat/cap, warm beanie, headlamp (with spare batteries), UV sunglasses.
• Upper Body: 2-3 moisture-wicking base layers, 1-2 fleece mid-layers, warm down/synthetic insulated jacket (crucial for ABC), waterproof/windproof outer shell jacket.
• Lower Body: 2 pairs of trekking pants, 1-2 pairs of thermal base layers, waterproof/windproof outer shell pants.
• Handwear: Lightweight inner gloves, warm outer gloves/mittens.
• Footwear: Well-broken-in waterproof hiking boots, 3-4 pairs of wool/synthetic trekking socks.

Sleeping & Packing

• Sleeping Bag: Essential! Comfort rating of -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F) is recommended for ABC trek gear.
• Duffel Bag: For main gear (if using a porter).
• Daypack (25- 35L): For daily essentials you'll carry.
• Rain Cover: For both backpacks.

Porter Service Note: If you prefer assistance carrying your main backpack, please check our Optional Add-ons section for porter services.

Hydration & Personal Items

• Water Bottles (2L+) or Hydration Bladder: Stay hydrated!
• Water Purification: Tablets or filter (recommended over bottled water).
• Toiletries: Quick-dry towel, toothbrush/paste, hand sanitizer, lip balm (SPF), sunscreen (SPF 30+).
• First Aid Kit: Personal medications, blister kit, pain relievers.

Miscellaneous Gear

• Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for stability and knee support.
• Power Bank: For charging devices (costly/limited at teahouses).
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, chocolates for quick boosts.
• Nepalese Rupees (NPR): Cash is essential for meals, drinks, and extra services.
• This high-altitude packing list ensures you're prepared for the cold weather gear Nepal demands on a quick ABC adventure.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) 5-day trek offers a rapid yet incredibly immersive journey into the heart of the majestic Annapurna mountain range. Designed for trekkers with excellent physical fitness and a desire for an intense Himalayan adventure, this itinerary compresses the classic ABC trek into a challenging but highly rewarding experience. You'll traverse diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests to stark alpine environments, culminating in the breathtaking amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,550 ft) itself. This fast-paced adventure promises unparalleled panoramic mountain views and a deep dive into local culture, making it one of the most sought-after treks in Nepal.

Key Locations & Moments on Your ABC Journey

• Jhinu Danda (1,780m / 5,840 ft): Your trek typically begins and ends near this charming village. Jhinu Danda is renowned for its natural hot springs (approx. 1,564m), a perfect reward to soothe tired muscles after your descent from the high mountains. It serves as a vital gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
• Sinuwa (2,340m / 7,677 ft): Nestled amidst dense forests, Sinuwa offers a tranquil overnight stop after the demanding climb from Chhomrong. It's a picturesque Gurung village providing basic teahouse comfort and a taste of local mountain life as you ascend deeper into the trekking region.
• Deurali (3,230m / 10,597 ft): As you reach Deurali, you truly feel the transition to the high-alpine environment. This settlement offers increasingly dramatic and close-up views of the surrounding peaks, signaling your nearing proximity to the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Facilities here are more basic, reflecting its higher altitude.
• Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) (3,700m / 12,140 ft): A significant milestone before reaching ABC, MBC provides spectacular, up-close views of the sacred and unclimbed Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). It's an essential acclimatization stop and a perfect spot to capture awe-inspiring photographs.
• Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (4,130m / 13,550 ft): The ultimate destination. Located within a natural amphitheater formed by towering peaks including Annapurna I (8,091m / 26,545 ft), Annapurna South (7,219m / 23,684 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441m / 21,132 ft), and Gangapurna (7,455m / 24,459 ft), ABC offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view that is truly unforgettable. Witnessing sunrise here is a highlight of any Himalayan trekking adventure.

Cultural & Natural Immersion

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is more than just mountain vistas; it's a profound cultural immersion experience. You'll pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Chhomrong, observing local lifestyles, unique architecture, and perhaps even experiencing traditional dances. The trek route also showcases incredible natural diversity, from lush sub-tropical forests alive with rhododendrons (especially vibrant in spring) and bamboo groves to sparse alpine meadows. Keep an eye out for diverse flora and fauna as you journey through the protected Annapurna Conservation Area.

Trek Route & Altitude Profile

This 5-day ABC itinerary involves a challenging altitude profile, characterized by significant daily elevation gains and descents over a condensed period. Starting from approximately 1,780m at Jhinu Danda, you'll ascend rapidly through varying terrains, including numerous stone steps, ultimately reaching 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp. While the distances covered each day are manageable, the cumulative ascent in a short timeframe demands high physical fitness and careful acclimatization to mitigate risks of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Your guide will help manage your pace for optimal safety on this physically demanding trek.

Permits Required for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For your Annapurna Base Camp trek, two essential permits are required to enter and traverse the protected region:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit contributes to the conservation efforts of the Annapurna region and is mandatory for all trekkers.
• Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: This card helps track trekkers for their safety and provides valuable data for tourism management. Our package includes the cost and procurement of both your ACAP and TIMS card, ensuring a hassle-free start to your trekking in Nepal.

Why Choose Places Nepal?

When embarking on a high-altitude trek like the Annapurna Base Camp 5-day adventure, choosing the right partner is paramount. Places Nepal offers unparalleled local expertise and commitment to your safety and satisfaction. Our experienced, English-speaking guides possess intimate knowledge of the trails, local culture, and crucial high-altitude protocols. We prioritize your well-being with thorough logistical support, including a comprehensive first-aid kit carried by your guide. By choosing Places Nepal, you're opting for a hassle-free trekking experience with transparent inclusions, reliable transportation, and a deep dedication to responsible tourism, ensuring your ABC trek is not just a journey, but a lifetime memory forged with trusted local experts.