Region: Annapurna Region

Overview of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic Himalayan journeys, offering a rare combination of accessibility, cultural richness, and dramatic mountain scenery. First opened to trekkers in 1949, it remains a top choice for those seeking a rewarding adventure without the extremes of high-altitude expeditions.

Ideal for beginners with good fitness as well as seasoned trekkers, it delivers breathtaking views without the extremes of high-altitude expeditions. The trek takes you through a spectacular mix of landscapes: from lush terraced farmlands and traditional villages to alpine forests and glacial valleys.

The sense of awe, accomplishment, and connection to both nature and local culture make the ABC trek an experience you’ll never forget. Every step brings a new view, a new village, and a new story, blending adventure, scenery, and culture seamlessly.

Quick Details: Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• Location: Nepal, in the north region of Pokhara
• Distance: ~110 km (round trip, depending on route)
• Difficulty: Moderate. Suitable for beginners with good fitness and experienced trekkers
• Cost: $700–$1,500 (includes guide, permits, and accommodation options; budget to mid-range)
• Best Time to Trek: It can start from March and end around May, then in the fall from mid-October till mid-December
• Trail Type: Well-marked trekking paths with suspension bridges, forests, villages, and alpine terrain

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary Summary (13 Days)

• Day 1–2: Arrival in Kathmandu + cultural sightseeing tour
• Day 3–4: Fly to Pokhara → trek through Ulleri to Ghorepani
• Day 5: Sunrise hike to Poon Hill → trek to Tadapani
• Day 6–7: Trek through Chhomrong and bamboo forests to Deorali
• Day 8–9: Reach Machhapuchhare Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
• Day 10–11: Descend via Sinuwa and Ghandruk → drive to Pokhara
• Day 12–13: Return to Kathmandu → departure

Cost for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek  

Knowing the cost upfront helps you budget wisely and pick the experience that fits your style. We will ensure that all expenses, including permits, accommodation, meals, and transportation, are covered. This is also based on the current 2026 trekking packages’ trend from other reputable Nepali operators, average international traveler expectations, and standard inclusions.

Average Cost for International Travelers (USD) 

Package	Accommodation	Meals	Guide	Transport	Permits & Extras	Estimated Cost (USD)
Premium	5-star in Kathmandu, 4-star in Pokhara, attached bathrooms along the trek, where available	Breakfast, lunch, dinner + afternoon tea and light snacks	Senior trekking guide	Private 4WD (4 participants)	Hot water bag from 4,000m, duffel & sleeping bag, ACAP & TIMS permits	$1,400–$1,500+
Standard	4-star in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with attached bathrooms where available	Breakfast, lunch, dinner	Senior/Junior trekking guide	Private 4WD (4 participants)	ACAP & TIMS permits	$1,000–$1,300
Economic / Budget	Non-star accommodation in Kathmandu, basic lodges along the trek (shared bathrooms)	Set-menu breakfast, lunch, dinner	Junior trekking guide	Shared transport	ACAP & TIMS permits	$700–$900

Cost Breakdown

• Permits: $30–$50 (ACAP and TIMS)
• Guide/Porter: $15–$25/day for a guide; $10–$15/day for a porter
• Accommodation: $5–$20/night for budget; $20–$40/night mid-range; premium depends on package
• Food: $5–$15 per meal along the trail; premium packages include full menu + snacks
• Transport: $10–$40 for flights or local transfers; private vehicle included in standard/premium

Things to Consider for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Before you set out on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, it’s important to be aware of a few key factors that can affect your experience:

• Trail Disruptions: Some sections of the trail are impacted by ongoing road and construction work. While most jeep trails are avoided, a few stretches are unavoidable.
• Seasonal Crowds: The peak trekking months (April, October–December) bring heavy traffic to the trails. Expect busy tea houses and popular viewpoints during these periods.
• Limited Lodging: High-altitude villages within the Annapurna Conservation Area have limited accommodation. During peak season, shared rooms with 3–4 people are common.
• Weather Dependency: Weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly, even during ideal trekking seasons. Be prepared for sudden temperature drops or rain.
• Winter Challenges: Snow, ice, and potential avalanches can make certain trail sections impassable during early spring and winter months. Proper gear and local guidance are essential.

Overview: Upper Mustang via Nar Valley – A Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region

The Upper Mustang trek via the Nar Valley in central Nepal is an ideal trek trip for approaching the walled city of Lo Manthang via a remote alternate trek trail escaping the previously well-traveled route, which has been somewhat disrupted by the road.

This trail is an ancient salt trade route connecting the two great mystical places Nar and Upper Mustang in a weeklong traverse through wild, uninhabited areas with crossing of the high Teri La Pass (5,560m)

The gorgeous valley with fortified Tibetan Villages of Nar to an arid and dry Upper Mustang enriches the experience of travelers with an ancient Tibetan cultures and Buddhist traditions. Upper Mustang trek via Nar valley allows you to have the experience of the off beaten trails, challenges of crossing of high pass, encountering remote villages with ancient Tibetan features which is well preserved till date, the age-old monasteries, exploration of 3 to 4 century ancient caves, amazing landscapes, rock formations and without missing the superb views of the Himalayas.

Nar Village: Nar at 4,110 m is a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist houses, monasteries some dating back over thousand years.  Here one can witness the ancient settlement and experience the rich Tibetan culture in an undisturbed form. You can see the locals with traditional dress showcasing their distinct cultural identity.  The dramatic mountain views and great alpine scenery surround the village.  Mountains like Annapurna II, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak can be seen during good weather days.

Teri La Pass (5,560m): Teri La (pass) at 5,560 m north of Upper Mustang and close to Damodar Mountain is a remote, adventurous serene high-walking crossing. Although categorized as an easy one but due to remoteness and altitude the crossing can be challenging one.  But the challenges are rewarded with a breathtaking 360° Himalayan vista from the summit.

Lo Manthang: Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang is the ancient capital city of Upper Mustang with strong ancient Buddhist cultures, thousand years old monasteries, mysterious cave and amazing landscapes.  Founded in 1380, it is also called the Walled City of Upper Mustang.  Most of the local houses are built out of mud brick.

Once upon a time, the district of Mustang was a part of the Tibetan empire. Sheltered from hyper-commercialized forms of tourism, it is known as the last bastion of authentic Tibetan culture. The trek through this region therefore involves uncovering the hidden mysteries of this ancient world.

Highlights: Upper Mustang Trek via Nar Valley

• Visit Nar Village (4,110m) – a hidden Tibetan village with authentic Buddhist architecture, traditional lifestyles, and dramatic mountain backdrops.
• Cross the wild and remote Teri La Pass (5,560m) – a challenging yet rewarding high-altitude crossing with breathtaking views.
• Explore the mysterious caves and monasteries of Upper Mustang, some dating back to the 14th century.
• Discover Lo Manthang – the ancient capital of Mustang with its royal palace, monastic complexes, and rich Tibetan heritage.
• Traverse exotic landscapes filled with deep canyons, red rock cliffs, eroded formations, and colorful desert-like scenery.
• Trek through a part of the ancient salt trade route that once connected Tibet with Nepal.

Trek Route: Upper Mustang Trek via Nar Valley

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by an off-road journey to Dharapani, the starting point of the trek. The trail ascends through Nar Valley, where you acclimatize and explore the village before heading toward the high, remote Teri La Pass. After crossing the pass, the trail descends into the magical terrain of Upper Mustang, culminating in Lo Manthang.

From Lo Manthang, you’ll return via Jomsom, visiting ancient cave systems and heritage sites along the way, before flying back to Kathmandu

Is This Trek for You?

If you’re seeking something beyond the typical Everest or Annapurna Circuit, and you’re ready to take on a remote, physically demanding trek through spiritual landscapes and untouched cultures, then Upper Mustang Trek via Nar Valley is the perfect journey.

Overview : POON HILL TREK

Poon Hill trek is one of the most well-liked short treks in Nepal. This trek may be approached from several directions and completed in different time frames by incorporating other beautiful trails.  Poon Hill trek route lies north of Pokhara Valley just below the Annapurna Mountain (8,091 m) the 10^th highest peak of the world.

Considered a simple hike in Nepal, it provides a relatively low-altitude, breathtaking perspective of the Central Himalayas. From Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Tukuche (6920m) to Nilgiri (66,940m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8,091m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Tarke Kang (7,193m), Poon Hill (3,200m) provides the most amazing sunrise view over the Himalayas.

Dotted along the trail are beautiful local villages which provide the insights of the local people. You will also have the chance to tour the Gurung tribe’s museum and old village well preserved. Spring times are even more beautiful as the trails are covered with a vibrant rhododendron forest with breathtaking vistas of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

In six days, our Poon Hill trek program combines two well-known mountain viewing locations. Starting at the well-known Poon Hill viewpoint, which is 3,200 meters high, and continuing east past the village of Landruk, which is home to terraced rice fields, a rhododendron forest, and local farming, until arriving at Australian Camp.  This is another great spot from where you will enjoy the breath-taking sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges.

Poon Hill Trek: Highlights

• Striking views of the Central Himalayas Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges
• Mesmerizing views of the sunrise over the Himalayas from the Summit of Poon Hill (3,210m)
• Amazing Sunset views from Australian Camp (2,060m)
• Walk through nature beautiful rhododendron forest, bamboo groves, terraced rice fields, small streams and different species of birds
• Experience the peaceful, serene villages and the insights of locals
• Visit the Gurung Museum and old Gurung village well preserved.

POON HILL: Trek Routes

The trek route to Poon Hill with Australian Camp can be done from different directions.  Ours is a usual route which starts from Hille village which is a drive of around 2 hrs from Pokhara.  From there we walk to village of Tirkhedunga in an ascending order for lunch. Then we tackle toughest part by climbing the steep stone staircase believed to be around 3300 steps to a Magar village of Ulleri for an overnight stay. This section is the most challenging part in the entire trek route.  After spending the night in Ulleri next day our destination is Ghorepani which is a gradual ascend order passing through local villages, rhododendron forest. Morning hike up to Poon Hill (3,200m) to get a mesmerizing view of the sunrise over the sunrise. This is around 01 hour hike up early morning for viewing sunrise with the snowy peaks turning into golden color.  Then continue eastward towards Tadapani with some gentle up then descending gradually to Tadapani for an overnight stay. Morning view from can also be magnificent. From here we continue our trek on an easy trail to second largest Gurung Village of Ghandruk which provides excellent view of Annapurna South. Here you can also explore old village and museum of the Gurung tribe.  Have lunch then descend down steeply in a stone staircase then a little bit of climb to Landruk for overnight stay. From Landruk our trek goes to Australian Camp through mix trail some part in a jeep trail where there is not much of traffic and other part in a proper trek trail.  Australian Camp is another great viewpoint for the mountains – next morning we hope to get some fantastic panoramic of the Himalayas (Weather permitting). After walk to Kande and then drive to Pokhara.

POON HILL: Challenge to Consider

• Since whole of Annapurna region is on a road construction project so some section of the trek will be on the Jeep trail with not much traffic.
• During season time i.e. April you will encounter quite a lot of crowds on the trail
• Because of the busy season getting accommodation can be a problem so early booking is recommended.
• Weather can play foul as trekking in the Himalayas is mostly to see those gigantic snowy peaks. Even during the recommended season, the weather sometimes can go wrong making the trip without the view of the Himalayas.