Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara - 5 Days

Short Trek from Pokhara
5-Day Annapurna Base Camp Private Trekking Tour Overview
Annapurna Base Camp Private Trekking - 5 Days
Annapurna Base Camp Private Trekking - 5 Days
Quick Overview
Duration5 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4120
Group Size1 to 20
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
ActivitiesTrekking and Hiking
Best Timespring and Autumn

This Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara is, in essence, a unique hike that offers trekkers gracious beauty within the Himalayas within a limited amount of time. Also called the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, this is just a great journey that starts and ends in the calm city of Pokhara.

Starting from the Pokhara route, the Annapurna base camp trip route features richness in varied landscapes and cultures. The Itinerary starts from Nayapul, twisting its way through picture-postcard villages in Gurung settlements with flourishing rhododendron forests—those with blossoming flowers—besides mesmerizing cascading waterfalls. As one ascends further, the scene totally changes into open breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna range, including the world's 10th highest mountain, Annapurna I, at 8,091 meters.

This Annapurna trek from Pokhara is one of the most beautiful short treks within that region. Its panoramic view includes famous peaks such as Lamjung, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Fishtail, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and the virgin peak, Fang. The journey in the Annapurna Conservation Area offers immense variety in flora and fauna, so much so that it is almost paradise for nature lovers.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek from the Pokhara itinerary begins with a drive to Simrung via Nayapul, followed by a hike to Sinuwa. Afterward, the trekkers ascend through various landscapes to Deurali. Dense forest with flowers in bloom and the view of Mt. Annapurna, followed by the journey to Annapurna Base Camp with its fine panorama of the Annapurna range with peaks of great repute like Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre.

On the way back, it passes through Bamboo or Sinuwa, which makes up a rich biodiversity area. This includes one major highlight: relaxation with a soak in the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda. Trekkers encounter changes from subtropical lowland to alpine terrain and experience the Gurung culture up close.

It's a round-trip adventure running through altitudes between 830 and 4130 meters, with challenging hiking coupled with exquisite views. This is one of the best short treks from Pokhara, and it provides the most comprehensive Himalayan experience in terms of natural beauty and cultural insight. This journey ends back in Pokhara.

The difficulty rating of this Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara ranges from easy to medium; thus, it's accessible for most trekkers. The trail is simply covered with the right mix of natural beauty and cultural exposure; the visitors get to be treated with hospitality by the local Gurung inhabitants, surrounded by awe-inspiring vistas of the mountains.

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek from Pokhara is one of the most favored treks on earth; the Himalayan experiences are simply unforgettable. The journey is just different at every step—from the lush green paddy fields in the lower regions to glacial landscapes near the Base Camp; it is full of new insights into the Annapurna region.

Flexibility in scheduling and expert guidance make this epic journey, from passing through diverse landforms from lowland villages to the foot of towering Himalayan giants, quite accessible and enjoyable for all seekers of adventure.

Highlights of the Trek

  • 360 Degree view of the Himalayan peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Himchuli, and Kangsar.
  • Diverse flora and fauna inside Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Diverse culture of Tamang, Gurung, and Thakali people.
  • Explore Annapurna Base Camp and Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
  • Relax at Hot Springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • Explore the beautiful city of Pokhara.

Why Choose Annapurna Base Camp Trekking From Pokhara?

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp takes you over 5 days to the Annapurna Majestic Himalayas in short timeframe. There are a few points on why a this short ABC trek from is the best choice for you:

Tailored Pace & Itinerary

With a private guide, you can change the order of activities during the day based on your stamina and interests. Would you like to stay longer at some nice place or skip some part for a rest day? No problems at all. Just ask your guide, and he will arrange it all for you

Personalized Attention

Benefit from the undivided care of a mountai n trekking guide. He will attend to your particular requirements, guarantee your safety, and help you get answers to all your questions along the way

Enhanced Comfort and Privacy

You can be with the people you are most comfortable with and have a more relaxed trip compared to the standard group tours.

Personal Guide and Porter For Annapurna Base Camp Trek From Pokhara

Having a private guide and porter on the trip will definitely make a difference in your experience. A group trek guide serves more people at once in contrast to a private guide who only cares for you alone. This makes it possible for you to get maximum personalized attention and an experience that meets your needs.

They have knowledge that is imprinted in both the culture and geography of the region. Thus, they give one an opportunity to grasp all the features of their land and offer fantastic trekking trails in the Annapurna area.

Furthermore, porter helps to reduce load of carrying your baggages so that you can just relax enjoying beautiful sceneries or concentrating on trek itself. In contrast with group porters, who may carry gear for several trekkers, a porter focuses on carrying a load only for one person.

Consequently, belongings are well looked after and very accessible when required; hence, delivering customer-tailored services enhances your comfort as well as makes the trek a more enjoyable and stress-free journey system.

5-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek From Pokhara Cost 2024 and 2025

Join us for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara for 5 days, priced at $345 per person in 2024 and 2025. This package includes services like hotel pick-up/drop-off in Pokhara, a shared jeep between Pokhara and a different place (Simrung), and four nights in mountain guest houses.

In addition, you will be provided with three meals a day, i.e., Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. You will be provided with first aid if needed, and an experienced trekking guide will also guide you.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

The trek kicks off in Pokhara with a journey that leads us through Nayapul and Syauli Bazar arriving at Simrung. The actual walk is from Simrung, ending in Sinuwa for the day. On your way, you will pass spectacular mountain terrain, terraced farms, towering mountains and dense subtropical forests.

We will go up through traditional villages of Kimche and Ghandruk where Buddhist monasteries and traditional cultures are well-preserved. A must-do just immediately after Ghandruk is a visit to the Gurung Museum. Here you can get magnificent views of Fishtail Mountain as well as Annapurna South Mountains.

The journey unfolds first with a steep descent to Kimron River and then climbs up to Chomrong, which provides you the spectacular view of Annapurna South and Fishtail Mountain. When we have time, we will walk on to Sinuwa to spend a night there.

Today, we will hike all the way to Deurali at 3230 meters which takes around 5 to 6 hours to complete. Starting off from Chomrong we reach Sinuwa before the Himalaya, passing through a stone path in the middle of lush forests. After crossing Chomrong Khola its way up through bamboo trees, finally colorful rhododendron bushes until Himalaya. For those that begin their journey in Sinuwa are our destination Deurali. At Himalaya overnight accommodation is available for trekkers from Chomrong while those on Deurali can continue the trek. Delighted by the grandeur of nature’s beauty, step by step you ascend into the weaving tale of the Himalayas, assuring an olden story and moments to forever be remembered in each step.

Starting at Deurali, the Modi Khola glacier valley introduces us to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp- one of the wonders on our way to Annapurna Base Camp. At Machhapuchhre Base Camp we are exposed to exceptionally beautiful, wide-angle views of the surrounding mountains which force us onward toward Annapurna Base Camp.

This trip is demonstrated by the incredible glaciers of the Annapurna region, and it gives you an amazing close-up interaction with nature. When you step onto the Annapurna Sanctuary, a panorama unfolds before you: Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8,097m/26,566ft), Khangsar Kang, Annapurna III and Macchapucchre approaches closer in every step spectacularly.

Starting at Kimrong Khola today, you will be amazed by the spectacular display of rhododendrons, bamboo and oaks. Going up through the trail we will stop in the beautiful Chomrong village surrounded by the mountains. At nightfall, peace for the day finds us at Sinuwa where one can get overnight a decent rest enriched with the murmuring melody of night songs performed by flows of water and leaves gently swaying.

After having a warm breakfast, we embark on a journey that will get us out of Annapurna Sanctuary. Initially, we returned through Modi River Valley towards Bamboo village.

We go downhill up to Kimrong Khola and the trail goes through quite rhododendron, bamboo and oak forests and ultimately you come to Chomrong. Nevertheless, we keep moving until we finally arrive in Jhinu Danda, a small peaceful settlement. In this village there are riverside hot springs close to it so that we can relax our muscles before proceeding further. We depart Jhinu Danda and start on the dusty road to the right of Mardi Khola. We will go by bus to Birethanti, Nayapul and finally we will arrive at Pokhara, where our trek ends.

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Cost Details
Included
  • 4 Night accommodation in Mountain.
  • All necessary permits for treks 
  • Private Vehicle to/from trekking starting and ending place. 
  • All Meals During the Treks (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
  • One professional Guide.

 

Excluded
  • Personal Insurance.
  • What is not mention on include Items.
Essential Information

Best Time To Do The Annapurna Base Camp Pokhara to Pokhara Trek

The best time to go for the 5 days ABC Trek from Pokhara actually depends on the preferences and expectations of trekkers. Some might prefer going during the peak seasons like Spring and Autumn for clear visibility of the surroundings while some might dare to trek during the winter to test their limits. However, we recommend you do this trek during the peak seasons, as it is favorable for all types of trekkers; from beginner to pro.

Spring Season (March To May)

The Annapurna Base Camp trek that takes 5 days is particularly best during spring (March to May). This is the time when the weather is neither cold nor hot creating a perfect trekking environment. The sky in most cases is clear, hence great viewing of the Annapurna mountain range. On the other hand, rhododendrons are in bloom along the trails, which gives you a colorful and lively way.

In spring more animals can be spotted since they come out after hibernating through winter. The warming up of day temperatures as well as longer daylight makes it possible for people to hike and view Himalayas beauty easily. Moreover, teahouses and lodges on such treks are now open and friendly so that there’s somewhere cozy to stay.

Humanity writes peace- Spring overall has the right mix of good weather, nice scenery and liveliness, this makes it the best season for the Annapurna track.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the top-rated treks in the world and can be done in a span of 5 days. Here is why the autumn season is ideal. Trekking can be carried out any time from September to November, which is in the autumn season. This is evident since we cannot see any clouds in the sky; thus, it is clear to have the best view of the mountains, particularly Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, which have snowy peaks. The daytime temperatures are also moderate, averaging between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for trailing.

This means you can gaze at the mighty mountains and other natural beauties without the interference of the cloudy formations. They also allow for dry trails with little to no risk of slipping or tripping over an uneven path.

Autumn season will also help you explore the local festivities of Nepal, such as Dashain and Tihar, which are the most famous festivals in the country. Dashain, which is the festival of family reunification and kite flying, is celebrated in the months of October, and so is Tihar, or the festival of lights.

Can I Do This Trek During Off-Seasons?

Many people question whether they can complete the trek in 5 days outside the seasons of monsoon (June to September) and winter (December to February).

Annapurna region is particularly affected by the heavy rains during monsoon season. The way is muddy and slippery, hence making the tour more challenging. When it rains, there are mountains that thick grey clouds have hidden; then, once the sun breaks through, you will be able to see all the beautiful greenery of the hills. In comparison to other seasons, the daytime during monsoon season is warmer while the nighttime is cooler. A raincoat is important because when we go on this trek, rainy weather just cannot give us a chance to get wet.

On the other side, the winter situation in the Annapurna region is indeed cold. Yet, still, it is only during nights that temperatures fall below zero, and this is even more pronounced at higher elevations during winter.

However, in winter, you can witness a completely different weather pattern: the sky gets cleared, and you get to see snow mountains as close as you ever have. This makes the place even more attractive since there is fresh and cooler air up there. During the daytime, it might be hot, but at night, it is also very cold. Footwear and waterproof jackets are necessary due to the fact that extremely cold weather systems are available.

Yes, it is possibile for the seasons 5-day ABC trek. However, one must prepare for that. Also, as far as the monsoon season is concerned, visitors should expect rain and muddy trails inside the park. When traveling in winter, make sure you dress warmly because freezing conditions worry with Annapurna Base Camp. This trek attracts trekkers from all over the world to Nepal every year. It becomes even more thrilling if someone has the right gear & equipment when they trek on off-seasons.

Difficulty Level of 5-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trekking From Pokhara 

The 5-Day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is moderately difficult and suitable for trekkers of all levels, from beginners to pros. The weather in the Annapurna region can be entirely different than that in the lowland Terai region, which lies at the southern foothills of the Himalayas. This implies that trips to summits are possible to do in the spring season, running from March to May, and the autumn season, September to November, is characterized by clear and mild climatic conditions. Nevertheless, it may get really cold as evening approaches, especially when you are staying on relatively higher ground.

It is not rare for a trekker to encounter fierce winds, rain, or even snow during his/her outing, and consequently, one needs to have clothing that will accommodate changing climatic conditions. The route is exceptionally eye-catching, passing through the most colorful and picturesque parts of the country like Rhodendron-forests, farming terraces & Nepali Villages. It also points out that as it rises further up into the mountain along these paths, cliffs become more precipitous, and trails rougher take. In addition, big boulders, steps, and downhill alleyways – sturdy trekking shoes, boots, and other gear are recommended for comfort and safety.

Yet once you step even on a moderate highland, say above the 3,000-meter line, you may suffer from altitude sickness, which shows itself in headache, dizziness, and nausea. In such a case, it is better to observe the advice of slowing down, hydration, and taking short breaks to adapt to the situation. The trek involves walking for an average of about five to seven hours a day and also gains and loses altitude, which most people find tiresome if they have been living a sedentary life. For you to be able to save energy, it means having some good resting periods; besides that, working steadily and dieting becomes very crucial.

There are nonetheless several facets about this particular trek that make it easy to endure: first of all, there is no shortage of interesting things along the way; secondly, despite what one might expect, although physically demanding at times, it is not overly strenuous; finally, there are always other hikers close by in case help were required or simply companionship was desired. If all basic preparations are properly done and the right mindset is adopted, then the experience may be very fulfilling and pleasing end-to-end.

Logistics For The Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara Trekking- 5 Days

Permits

To set on the ABC Trekking from Pokhara, trekkers must obtain two permits and they are:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Project
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

Annapurna Base Camp lies inside the protected area of Annapurna Conservation Area, requiring you to acquire the entry permit. The major concern is for the safety of the wildlife and ecosystem during your trek and track all your records. The Cost of ACAP Permit is NPR 3000 per person for international trekkers. Similarly, Indian trekkers are required to pay NPR 1000 per person while Nepalese trekkers must pay only NPR 100 per person.

Similarly, to obtain TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System), you must pay NPR 2000 per person. You can get both of these licenses from the Tourism Board of Nepal with the help of your travel agencies.

Food During Trek

While trekking to Annapurna base camp, one can also get to taste Nepali food. Hotels in Pokhara offer different types of food, such as Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc. Teahouse lodging provides breakfast and dinner; lunch is offered while en route on a trekking trail. Lunch and dinner are available at a reasonable price.

During breakfast, while trekking, you can take Common Tibetan Bread, Chapati, French toast, Corn Flakes, Hash Browns, eggs –fried, scrambled, boiled, pancakes, porridge, Muesli, vegetable dishes, and hot drinks.

Anticipated lunch specialties are thukpa (noodle soup), dal and bhat, momo (dumplings), Tibetan chapati bread, macaroni and spaghetti, sherpa stew, steaks and potatoes, sandwiches, rice curry and spring rolls, burgers, pizza, yak steak, and desserts.

Dinner offers a similar variety: momos, thukpa, dal and bhat, chapati, macaroni, spaghetti, sherpa stew, soups, steaks, potato dishes, sandwiches, pizza, rice with curry, spring rolls, ramen soups, burgers pizza, yak steak, desserts, hot and cold drinks.

Accommodation During Trek

On the trek to Annapurna base Camp from pokhara route, there are enough tea houses and lodges to accommodate you so bringing a tent is not necessary. The tea houses usually have twin-sharing rooms, and the accommodations offered are simple yet comfortable. During a 5-day trek, we promise that you will stay in the best tea houses around.

They typically accommodate two guests on basic wooden beds with blankets, mattresses, and pillows along an ABC in many places, although not everywhere. Single rooms can be requested, and they are normally available except at Deurali and ABC. In lower areas such as Kathmandu or some trekking spots, single rooms are much easier to find, but once you reach higher elevations, it becomes rare.

Challenges of 5-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara

Taking a 5-day trip to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is both thrilling and demanding. But there's also one of the biggest challenges people face – there is weather between you and that amazing challenge. The climate, though changeable, will be the least of your problems, with most days sunny yet rain or even snow may catch you at higher altitudes on your way.

Since all trekkers are prone to such weather, it means they have to be prepared for whatever can come along their way, and thus a must for them to carry some items like raincoats, thermal clothes, or boots. The difficulty in question comprises both aspects of climbing and terrain itself; routes that are rough and remote, narrow as well as steep sometimes being part of it. Trekkers, in some cases might be required to walk 6-7 hours per day; this can prove exhausting for individuals who do not have hiking as their favorite hobby.

The next main issue is altitude sickness, which affects many people. Once they are above 3000m high, it is a headache for them too. Some symptoms like headache, sickness, or dizzy feelings may appear when you ascend towards the Annapurna Base Camp situated at 4130 meters above sea level.

So, in this regard, acclimatization should not be neglected, and you must listen to what your body says and not hurry in the trekking process. In addition, joint and muscle fatigue represents another problem because continual walking may cause the hazards.

How To Prepare For This Trek?

To properly plan a five-day trekking tour to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) from Pokhara, you must have proper strategies. Firstly focus on your well being by engaging in activities such as walking, running or even hiking. This will ensure that you will be able to tackle most of the difficulty that may come along with trekking so you can fully enjoy it.

Pack lightly but remember to include sturdy hiking boots, casual clothing, a layer of warm clothing, gloves, a hat, and sunglasses. Also, carry a comfortable backpack, reusable bottle of drinking water, first aid kit which must include plasters for minor injuries, over-the-counter painkillers or any other medicines that you might need when traveling. Additionally items that are essential to take during the trek are trekking poles, raincoat and also flashlight.

Afterward gather all your documents and deal with necessary visas if required by the destination's country. Check if you have a valid passport and then get visas for the country where you plan to go beforehand.

For proceeding on trekking route , TIMS card- Trekkers’ Information Management System is compulsory as well as ACAP card- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit easily obtainable through your trekking agency should also suffice. And remember throughout the day keep yourself hydrated enough, not dehydrated nor sleepy at all.

At the end make sure you get enough sleep before departing and leave information about your planned trip with someone just in case something bad happens to you during the trek.

Guides and Porters

Guides and porters play a crucial role in making your trekking experience memorable and safe. Here’s why their presence is important for your 5-day Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara Trek.

Why Do You Need Guides?

Since April 1, 2023, the Nepal Government has made it mandatory to hire guides in remote trekking areas, emphasizing safety and proper guiding. Guides provide expertise and local knowledge so that you stay on safe paths and interact more with the culture. They render valuable security and emergency help, taking care of risks such as altitude sickness or unexpected weather changes.

Guides also provide cultural insights by telling you things about the history of an area and local legends, which adds value to your walk. Their company significantly contributes to an educational expedition along a certain route, making it more engaging and fully enriching one’s life at the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Why Do You Need Porters?

Porters play an essential role in giving you a physical break by carrying your luggage so you can bear it comfortably and concentrate on the scenery. Their role in supporting the local economy is crucial as it gives employment to the people in the locality.

With porters taking care of your load, you can walk at a constant speed, thus improving your overall trekking experience. This helps make sure that you will be able to finish the trek without unnecessary strain on your body. In addition, along with guides, porters lessen the ecological impact of treks through their efficient load-carrying way and promote sustainable tourism, one of the factors contributing to the preservation of the Annapurna region’s natural beauty.

support provided by them plays a key role in a successful and pleasant trekking expedition system wide.

Other Requirements for the ABC Trek from Pokhara

Insurance

The 5-Day Annapurna Base Camp hiking trip from Pokhara is exciting but it comes with great risks due to the high altitude. So, it is crucial to have medical travel insurance that contains issues affecting altitude and will facilitate quick access to healthcare in case of an emergency evacuation.

Travel insurance covers cancellation, loss or damage to baggage, and other related situations. Insurance also offers emergency assistance, which is quite useful when one is stranded at an odd hour. Travel insurance is useful and commits you to have a safe trek by protecting your health, your belongings, and your money, and will give you an opportunity to face any mishappening in the Himalayas.

Nepal Visa Documents

A visa is required to enter Nepalese territory by foreigners other than Indians. It can be acquired on arrival at the Immigration Control at entry points such as Tribhuvan International Airport or at the border entry point.

For visa and immigration purposes, one requires a passport with a validity of at least six months, one passport-size photograph and a visa fee of USD 50 for a 30-day visa, which will be paid in cash. Visa regulations may change, so check the latest updates at [Nepal Immigration].

China’s citizens and the SAARC countries' citizens, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, obtain visas without having to pay for them. People from other countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and others can’t get an on-arrival visa, so they should visit the Nepalese Embassy.

To allow for potential delays in the trek, ensure that you plan to arrive at the destination at least 1-2 days ahead of your international flights.

Communication & Internet

While undertaking the Annapurna Base camp trek, one can access the internet in lodges, hotels, and tea houses, although the services are free. Finally, as we move to the next level of analysis, which is at the higher level, the standard means of communication will be through mobile phones. Our company also has to be in touch with all groups involved in trekking at least once a day, either directly or through the team guide, to check on them and seek to know whether they have any issues. Finally, although telephone services and local SIM cards are available in Kathmandu for communication purposes, it is essential to know that signals may be low or non-existent when you are at a higher altitude.

Electricity and Water

The Annapurna region has the availability of electricity all round the lodges to recharge your camera and mobile batteries with just a little added cost. As far as water is concerned, you either buy bottled mineral water from local lodges and shops along the trail or use boiled water to refill your bottle for a fee.

We also can provide purification tablets in case they are needed. Direct consumption of river, tap, and well water during trekking should not be done, as this might be harmful.

FAQs

This trek is moderately challenging and suitable for both beginner and experienced trekkers. Walking 5-7 hours daily on remote terrain requires physical fitness.

The best times for this trek are during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), when you can experience clear skies and pleasant weather conditions.

Remember to pack trekking boots, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a good-quality backpack, water purification tablets, sunscreen, a hat, and personal medications for this trek.

Mostly, your accommodation will be at tea houses or lodges, which offer basic amenities such as a bed, blanket, and shared bathroom facilities.

Trekkers must obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card for this trek. These permits can be acquired at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu.

This trek takes to the highest point, Annapurna Base Camp, at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).

Having travel insurance is highly advised. It covers high-altitude trekking, medical expenses, and trip cancellations to ensure safety and peace of mind.