This 11-day trek will take you through the remote and imposing mountains of the Annapurna Range. The Annapurna region provides you with unparalleled access to spectacular horizons of snowy peaks, so amazingly high that you can’t believe your eyes. This trek is one of the most popular in Nepal and for good reason. Annapurna Basecamp is surrounded by a cirque of awe-inspiring peaks, including the awesome south face of Annapurna, in a natural amphitheater. Besides providing the views for which the trek is famous, the trail takes you through an ever-changing landscape of rice fields, misty forests and tiny local villages. The challenging trails will reward you with a breathtaking combination of towering peaks and dramatic valleys. On your spectacular journey you will reach the base camp of the world’s 10th highest mount, Annapurna (8091 m).
Itinerary:
Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu.
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Your guide meets you for a private transfer to a comfortable hotel. Depending on the time of your arrival, you can take a short orientation walk to Thamel shops selling pashmina, handicrafts, and momos. In the evening, you will be formally welcomed with a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant in the city. -/-/D
Day 2. Kathmandu - Pokhara
Breakfast at the hotel, then depart early on a scenic 6-7-hour drive along the Prithvi Highway. Pass rivers, waterfalls, and green hills; stop at a viewpoint for photos and tea. Arrive in Pokhara by afternoon, transfer to a lakeside hotel. Stroll Phewa Lake, rent a rowboat, or visit the World Peace Pagoda for sunset views over the Annapurna range. B/-/-
Day 3. Pokhara – Ghandruk (1940 m). Trek Begins
Breakfast by 8:00 AM at the hotel, followed by a scenic 1.5–2-hour drive to Nayapul, the starting point of your trek. From Nayapul, begin trekking along the Modi Khola River, passing through fertile farmlands, traditional villages, and beautifully terraced fields carved into the hillsides. The trail gradually ascends through rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional views of waterfalls and surrounding valleys. By afternoon, reach Ghandruk, one of the most charming Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. Wander through its stone-paved lanes lined with traditional slate-roofed houses, and visit the local Gurung Museum to learn about the community’s history, culture, and connection to Gurkha traditions. B/L/D
Duration of trek: 4-5 hours
Day 4. Ghandruk - Chhomrong (2170 m)
Following breakfast, we will begin our hike, descending briefly before ascending along a well-marked trail. Trek past villages such as Sinuwa, crossing suspension bridges draped over rushing streams and walking through forests alive with blooming rhododendrons in April. The route offers a mix of stone steps, shaded paths, and open viewpoints along the way. Arrive in Chhomrong, dramatically perched on a ridge and famed for its close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range. Climb the final stone steps to your lodge, then spend time exploring the small local market for souvenirs like local honey or herbal teas, while observing village life as locals tend their fields against a stunning mountain backdrop.B/L/D
Duration of trek: 5-6 hours
Day 5. Chhomrong – Bamboo (2310 m)
After breakfast, begin the walk by descending around 400 stone steps to the river, a steady downhill section leading into the valley. The trail then follows the Modi Khola, winding through subtropical forests rich with birdlife and occasional sightings of monkeys. As you approach Bamboo, the landscape becomes cooler and densely forested, offering a quiet, shaded retreat from the open trails. This is an ideal place to pause, sit still, and focus on photography, with mossy paths, flowing streams, and the soft sounds of nature all around. Along the way, spot small waterfalls cascading down the cliffs and take time to relax, absorbing the peaceful atmosphere and the gentle echoes of the valley. B/L/D
Duration of trek: 6-7 hours
Day 6. Bamboo – Deurali (3230 m)
After breakfast, begin the ascent along stone staircases, passing through forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. The trail crosses the river several times via suspension bridges, offering glimpses of the rushing waters below. Weather permitting, Annapurna South reveals itself in dramatic views along the way. By afternoon, arrive at Deurali, where cozy teahouses await, and the surrounding ridges begin to unveil emerging Himalayan vistas, perfect for photographs or simply soaking in the mountain serenity. B/L/D
Duration of trek: 4-5 hours
Day 7. Deurali – Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 m) & Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m)
After an early breakfast, begin trekking through open meadows and past the serene Hinku Cave, surrounded by wildflowers and distant mountain ridges. Continue to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, where you’ll enjoy close-up, intimate views of the sacred Fishtail Peak—climbing is not permitted, preserving its revered status. From here, push onward to Annapurna Base Camp, nestled in an alpine amphitheater framed by giants like Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. As evening falls, relax under the clear mountain sky with stargazing and join fellow trekkers for a small group celebration, marking the day’s achievement. B/L/D
Duration of trek: 5-6 hours
Day 8. Annapurna Base camp - Bamboo (2310 m)
Wake up to dawn views of golden peaks illuminating the surrounding Annapurna range. After breakfast, begin the descent, retracing your steps through the trail. The downhill walk is easier, passing through changing ecosystems as the landscape transitions from alpine meadows to dense forests. Arrive at Bamboo, where the shaded paths and cool air feel especially welcoming after the chill of the high camp, offering a perfect spot to rest and soak in the surroundings. B/L/D
Duration of trek: 5-6 hours
Day 9. Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (Hot Spring) (1780 m)
After breakfast, begin the descent to Sinuwa, following the Modi Khola River through shaded forests and terraced landscapes. Continue to Jhinu Danda, known for its natural hot springs, just a short 20-minute downhill walk from the village. Here, you can soak tired muscles in the steaming pools, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the jungle and flowing water, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating break after several days of trekking. B/L/D
Duration of trek: 4-5 hours
Day 10. Jhinu Danda to Nayapul and Pophara. Trek Ends
After breakfast, begin the 5–6-hour downhill trek through charming villages, terraced fields, and riverside trails, eventually reaching the Nayapul trailhead. From there, take a private jeep transfer to Pokhara (around 1 hour). Check in at your hotel and enjoy free time to unwind. In the evening, savor dinner by the lake accompanied by live music, completing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. B/L/-
Duration of trek: 5-6 hours
Day 11. Pokhara - Kathmandu
A scenic short flight (30 min) carries you from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, offering aerial views of the Himalayan range and Pokhara’s sparkling lakes.Transfer to the airport for departure. B/-/-
Recommended period for travel: While trekking is possible the whole year round, the best times to visit are from from beginning of March to the end of May and from the beginning of September to mid November.
Extra costs incurred by flight cancellation; natural calamities; weather conditions; other unforeseen circumstances