Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the gateway to your Annapurna Base Camp trek. A friendly Mercy Holidays representative will escort you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. After settling in, meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing, covering safety tips, trekking itinerary, and essential gear preparation. Enjoy the vibrant streets of Thamel and soak in Nepal’s culture. In the evening, delight in a traditional Nepali welcome dinner with local music and dance, a perfect introduction to Nepalese hospitality. Overnight stay in Kathmandu prepares you for your Himalayan adventure.

Start early with a scenic drive to Ghandruk via Pokhara, spanning roughly 9–10 hours and 270 km of winding roads. Marvel at terraced farmlands, rivers, and foothills of the Himalayas along the way. Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village, offers stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Explore stone houses, local culture, and traditional lifestyles. Capture photos of terraced fields and misty mountains, and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Your overnight stay in Ghandruk allows you to rest and acclimatize before trekking. This day is a gentle introduction to the Annapurna region’s beauty.

Embark on your trek through the Kimrong Khola valley, walking 5–6 hours amid lush rhododendron and bamboo forests. Enjoy panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna’s majestic peaks. The trail passes charming villages and terraced farmland, offering insight into local life. Gentle ascents and descents provide a balanced start to your trek while immersing you in Nepal’s natural beauty. Reach Chhomrong village, a serene spot surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Overnight stay at a cozy guesthouse allows time to rest, enjoy local meals, and prepare for the more challenging sections ahead of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Today’s trail descends stone steps to Chhomrong Khola and crosses a picturesque suspension bridge. Trek through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, gradually ascending toward Dovan over 5–6 hours. The trail is alive with the sounds of flowing rivers, chirping birds, and rustling leaves. Snow-capped peaks frame the valley, and local villages offer glimpses of traditional lifestyles. An overnight stay in Dovan provides a quiet retreat in the midst of the Annapurna Sanctuary. This section blends adventure and tranquility, giving trekkers a chance to appreciate the Himalayan ecosystem while adjusting to higher altitudes.

The trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp spans 6–7 hours, offering alpine terrain and occasional avalanche-prone slopes. Pass landmarks like Himalaya Hotel, Hinku Cave, and Deurali, with breathtaking views of Annapurna’s peaks. The landscape transitions from dense forests to alpine meadows as you approach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, nestled under the iconic Fishtail Peak. This high-altitude camp is a perfect spot to experience Himalayan serenity and view glaciers up close. Overnight stay here prepares trekkers for the short ascent to Annapurna Base Camp, and the crisp mountain air provides a refreshing retreat in Nepal’s Annapurna region.

Reach the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary with a 2–3 hour gentle climb to ABC. The trek passes alpine meadows, rocky trails, and glacial streams. At Annapurna Base Camp, be awestruck by 360° views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. Capture the sunrise or sunset, where golden light illuminates towering peaks. Spend time photographing glaciers and panoramic vistas, absorbing the peaceful, high-altitude environment. Overnight stay at ABC is unforgettable, surrounded by Himalayan majesty. This iconic Nepal adventure offers a sense of accomplishment and the ultimate trekking experience in the Annapurna region.

Wake early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise over Annapurna I and neighboring peaks. After soaking in the views, descend 6–7 hours through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, and Dovan toward Bamboo. Enjoy lush forests, bamboo groves, and snow-capped peaks along the way. The descent allows your body to adjust gradually to lower altitudes while still enjoying the sanctuary’s scenic beauty. Overnight stay in Bamboo offers rest, with comfortable guesthouses providing warm meals. Reflect on the unforgettable sights of ABC and appreciate Nepal’s natural landscapes on this memorable Himalayan trek.

Descend 5–6 hours through Chhomrong Khola and past Chhomrong village before reaching Jhinu Danda. This village is famous for natural hot springs, perfect for soaking tired muscles after trekking. The trail meanders through forests and small settlements, offering glimpses of traditional Gurung and Magar lifestyles. Enjoy the peaceful riverside ambiance and rejuvenate in the warm hot springs. An overnight stay in Jhinu Danda allows for rest and reflection amid serene surroundings. This section combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, making it a highlight of the Annapurna Base Camp trekking experience.

Board a 5–6 hour jeep ride along the Modi River to Nayapul, then continue to Pokhara. The off-road drive reveals waterfalls, terraced farmlands, and scenic valleys. Upon arrival, explore Pokhara’s lakeside city, renowned for its calm atmosphere and Himalayan views. Enjoy leisurely walks, lakeside cafés, and boutique shops along Phewa Lake. This day provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation after high-altitude trekking. Overnight stay in Pokhara lets trekkers rejuvenate before returning to Kathmandu, offering comfort, modern amenities, and the chance to experience a popular hub for Nepalese trekking adventures.

Today, Pokhara Exploration Day

Return to Kathmandu by a 6–7 hour scenic drive or a 30-minute domestic flight. Witness terraced hills, rivers, and mountain vistas along the route. Upon arrival, explore Thamel’s vibrant streets, local shops, and cafés. This day provides a comfortable transition from trekking to urban experiences while offering last opportunities for souvenirs and cultural exploration. Overnight stay in Kathmandu lets trekkers relax before their final day of sightseeing and departure. Reflect on the journey through the Annapurna region, from terraced villages to majestic high-altitude landscapes.

Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Square. Enjoy local culture, markets, and street food while discovering Nepal’s spiritual and architectural heritage. Optional evening farewell dinner features traditional Nepali music, dance, and cuisine. This day balances sightseeing, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Overnight stay in Kathmandu provides comfort and a final opportunity to savor the city before departing Nepal, leaving trekkers with lasting memories of Himalayan adventures, cultural richness, and unforgettable landscapes from the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Reflect on the incredible Annapurna Base Camp trek, from Gurung villages and terraced fields to the pristine sanctuary and panoramic Himalayan peaks. Take home memories of Nepal’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and trekking adventure, a journey that leaves a lifelong impression for all travelers seeking Himalayan exploration.