Annapurna Base Camp Trek-11 Days

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a journey that leads you into the very heart of the Annapurna massif. This iconic trek offers an exceptional combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling mountain adventure. The trail passes through charming villages, terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and dramatic landscapes, all while revealing unforgettable vistas of some of Nepal’s most famous peaks.

Beginning with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the trek ascends steadily, with each day rewarding you with new views and cultural experiences. The culmination at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) offers an awe-inspiring panorama of snow-capped giants and glaciers. The trek is suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness and a spirit ready for adventure.

Each day presents new challenges and rewards — steep ascents that strengthen your body, tranquil teahouses that comfort your spirit, and panoramic viewpoints that stir your soul. The culmination at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters) is nothing short of magical. Here, surrounded by the towering Annapurna massif, you will stand humbled yet exhilarated, knowing you have conquered one of Nepal’s most iconic treks.

With Everest Destiny Trek, you will enjoy personalized service, expert guiding, and a commitment to sustainable, responsible trekking practices that support local communities and protect the environment.

This vital section guides trekkers on the complete gear checklist needed for a safe, comfortable Annapurna Base Camp trek. It details clothing and equipment for every body part — from headwear to footwear — emphasizing lightweight packing (max 9 kg per person) to ease your journey. 

Sharing duffle bags is recommended to balance load and camaraderie. If you don’t own specific gear, Everest Destiny Trek kindly offers rental options, ensuring you don’t miss out due to missing equipment. This thoughtful preparation helps keep you warm, dry, and energized on the challenging mountain trails.

Headgear & Sun Protection

• Wide-brimmed sun hat
  
• Warm beanie
  
• Buff/neck gaiter
  
• Lightweight headlamp
  
• High SPF sunscreen & lip balm
  
• Sunglasses (UV protection)
  
• Face wipes
  

Upper Body Clothing

• Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short & long sleeve)
  
• Thermal base layer
  
• Fleece and down jackets
  
• Lightweight puffy jacket
  
• Waterproof, windproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  
• Raincoat
  
• Breathable long-sleeve shirt
  
• Polypropylene underwear (4 pairs)
  

Handwear

• Insulated gloves/mittens
  
• Waterproof gloves
  

Lower Body Clothing

• Quick-drying trekking pants (convertible/full-length)
  
• Insulated pants
  
• Lightweight cotton pants
  
• Thermal leggings/long underwear
  
• 2 pairs thermal trekking trousers
  

Footwear

• Thick wool or synthetic socks (4 pairs)
  
• Waterproof, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
  
• Sandals (for camp/river crossings)
  
• Gaiters (mud & debris protection)
  

Toiletries

• Biodegradable soap
  
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
  
• Medium drying towel
  
• Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
  
• Toilet paper (Ziplock bag)
  
• Feminine hygiene products
  
• Travel shampoo
  
• Nail clippers
  
• Small mirror
  

Backpacks

• Shared duffle bag (60+ liters) for porters
  
• Personal daypack (20-30 liters)
  

Personal Accessories

• Collapsible trekking poles
  
• Water bottle or bladder (2+ liters, insulated recommended)
  
• Water purification (tablets, filter, or UV purifier)
  
• Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C rating recommended)
  

Extra Essentials

• Camera/phone with extra memory & batteries
  
• Power bank & extra batteries
  
• Two-pin charging plug
  
• First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers, Diamox)
  
• Personal meds (inhalers, allergy meds)
  
• Passport photos & photocopies
  
• Notebook & pen
  
• Binoculars
  
• Swiss army knife/multi-tool

Your unforgettable Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins the moment you arrive in Nepal. At Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a representative from Everest Destiny Trek will be waiting to receive you with a personalized welcome. You’ll recognize them by the pamphlet bearing your name. As a traditional Nepali gesture of hospitality, they will offer you either a Marigold garland or a Khada (ceremonial scarf) before escorting you to your hotel in a comfortable private vehicle.

This complimentary airport pickup and hotel drop-off service ensures that you feel safe and supported the moment you step into the country.

We recommend that you arrive in Kathmandu at least one day in advance—preferably before 3:00 PM. This allows sufficient time for last-minute preparations and an in-person trip briefing, especially if you’ve missed the online version. This additional time also helps you acclimate and relax before your trek begins.

On the trek departure day, we will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the scenic gateway to the Annapurna region. This transportation by tourist bus is included in your package. The tourist bus departs around 7:00 AM from Sorakhutte, Kathmandu, and offers beautiful views of Nepal’s rivers, hills, and countryside along the way.

If you prefer a faster or more private travel option, you can choose a 25-minute domestic flight to Pokhara or hire a private vehicle for an additional cost.

Get ready to eat like a trekker! During your Annapurna Base Camp Trek, we’ll keep your energy high with 10 hearty breakfasts, 9 filling lunches, and 9 nourishing dinners—all included in your trek package. These meals are served at cozy tea houses along the route and are designed to support your strength at high altitudes.

In Pokhara, you’ll have the freedom to explore local eateries and treat yourself to anything from authentic Nepali dishes to Western comfort food—lunch and dinner here are on your own.

When you’re up in the mountains, Dal Bhat (rice and lentils) is your best friend—packed with nutrients and slow-releasing energy. To stay hydrated and warm, we highly recommend sipping on garlic soup, ginger tea, or green tea—local favorites known to help with altitude adjustment.

Please Note: While your main meals are covered, all personal drinks—whether hot (like tea or coffee), cold, or alcoholic—are not included in the package. These can be purchased separately at the tea houses and cafes.

For your health and hygiene, especially at higher altitudes, we strongly advise avoiding meat, as storage and freshness can be inconsistent in remote villages. Likewise, skip dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and hot chocolate, as they may hinder your body’s acclimatization process.

Stay fueled, stay hydrated, and savor the journey—your plate is just as important as your path!

When you’re heading into the heart of the Himalayas, smart packing is key. For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, each porter will carry up to 18 kg for every two trekkers, which means your personal luggage limit is 9 kg.

We recommend bringing a shared duffel bag of at least 60 liters—durable, weather-resistant, and easy for porters to manage on the trail.

Got extra baggage? No worries! You can safely store your additional luggage at your hotel or with us—absolutely free of charge. That way, you only carry what you need and leave the rest behind for a lighter, smoother trekking experience.

 Safe Sips, Healthy Hikes

Hydration is everything when you’re trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. While bottled water is available at teahouses along the route, we highly recommend carrying a refillable water bottle and using boiled or filtered water provided by lodges.

Want extra protection? Pack water purification tablets—or just let us know, and we’ll gladly provide them. Please avoid drinking straight from local taps, rivers, or wells. Staying healthy starts with safe water!

Staying Connected

Need to update your loved ones or post a trail-side selfie? You can buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu—but keep in mind, signal strength fades as you climb higher.

Don’t worry though—your safety is always our top priority. Our guide stays in contact with our team daily via phone, ensuring that someone always knows your status and location.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is beautiful year-round, but if you’re aiming for the best experience, spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are your golden windows.

In spring, the trail bursts into life with colorful rhododendrons, crystal-clear skies, and pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 0°C. Autumn brings equally clear weather, mild temperatures, and dry trails, making it perfect for photography and a smooth trekking rhythm.

Summer/Monsoon (June–August): Expect lush greenery, roaring waterfalls, and fewer crowds. But come prepared—trails can be muddy and slippery, with highs around 23°C and lows at 5°C.

Winter (December–February): Love snow? You’ll enjoy the peaceful, frozen landscapes and the thrill of trekking in solitude. But it gets freezing cold—down to -10°C at base camp. Not for the faint-hearted!

Each day brings a new trekking adventure. You’ll take in the views, capture photos, and visit local villages along the way. Our experienced and friendly guides will accompany you throughout the trek, sharing insights about the places you pass.

Our team includes porters who carry your luggage, but you should carry a small daypack with essentials and valuables.

Your day usually starts with a hot cup of tea or coffee early in the morning. After a good breakfast, the trek begins around 7 to 8 AM, depending on the day’s distance and terrain.

Around midday, after trekking 3 to 4 hours, we stop for lunch along the trail. Then, we rest for about an hour before continuing with a shorter afternoon walk of 2 to 3 hours. When we reach the lodge or tea house for the night, you can have snacks and explore the nearby area before dark.

Dinner is served between 6 and 7 PM. After dinner, there’s time for chatting and sharing the day’s experiences. Your guide will give a briefing about the next day’s plan. Later, you can relax by reading, watching mountaineering videos, or playing games like cards or Monopoly. Many guests also enjoy learning simple Nepali words from our crew.

All foreign nationals except Indian citizens need a visa to enter Nepal. Most travelers receive their visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. To apply, you must have a passport valid for at least six months and a passport-size photo.

The current visa fee is USD 50 for 30 days, payable in cash at the airport.

Citizens of China and other SAARC countries are eligible for a free visa.

However, nationals from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan may not get a visa on arrival. If you are from any of these countries, please contact your local Nepalese embassy before traveling.

Visa rules can change without notice. For the latest updates, visit Nepal Immigration Office.

Our team of licensed guides and Sherpas is committed to providing you with a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trek. With years of experience, training in wilderness first aid, and knowledge of ecological conservation, they are fully prepared to guide you through the Annapurna region.

We take care of our team by offering fair wages, insurance, and long-term support—because a happy team leads to happy trekkers.

We are dedicated to sustainable trekking practices. Throughout the Annapurna Base Camp route, we promote eco-conscious habits such as avoiding single-use plastics, using refillable water bottles, and staying in lodges that rely on solar power and practice responsible waste management.

We encourage all trekkers to respect the local environment and help us preserve the beauty of the Himalayas for future generations.

Tipping is customary in Nepal and is a meaningful way to show appreciation for good service. While it is not mandatory, we recommend tipping your guide, porters, and support crew as a group, based on the quality of service and your satisfaction.

Before you lace up your hiking boots and head for the Himalayas, here are some must-know travel essentials to keep your journey smooth, safe, and stress-free.

Visa – Your Entry Pass to Nepal
If you’re not from India, you’ll need a visa to enter Nepal. The good news? It’s super easy to get—just apply on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at official land borders.
Here’s what you’ll need:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  
• 2 passport-sized photos
  
• USD 50 for a 30-day visa
  

Need more info or want to apply online? Visit Nepal Immigration.

Travel Insurance – A Must-Have Safety Net

Don’t trek without it! Travel insurance is mandatory and should cover both medical emergencies and helicopter evacuation up to 4,000 meters. Double-check with your insurer—evacuation coverage is crucial in remote mountain areas.

Currency & Exchange – Cash is King in the Mountains
While major cards may work in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll need cash on the trail.
Here’s what you should know:

• 1 USD ≈ NPR 133 (rates may vary)
  
• Bring major currencies and exchange them in authorized money changers—especially in Thamel
  
• ATMs are available in cities, but may charge withdrawal fees
  
• Carry small denominations for tips and purchases
  
• Only INR 100 notes are accepted if you’re carrying Indian currency
  

Extra Expenses – Budget Wisely

Though our package covers your essentials, plan around USD 15 per trek day for personal items like:

• Hot/cold drinks
  
• Snacks
  
• Souvenirs
  
• Wi-Fi or charging fees at teahouses
  
• Tips for guides/porters

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is rated moderate—no ropes or technical gear required—but it’s no walk in the park either.

You’ll trek for 5–7 hours daily, ascend steep paths, and reach an altitude of 4,130 meters at base camp. The key to success?
  Good fitness
  Steady pace
  Proper acclimatization

If you’re reasonably fit and prepared, this trek will feel challenging but incredibly rewarding—both physically and emotionally.

Pack smart, not heavy. The goal is to stay warm, dry, and mobile.

Essentials:

• Comfortable, broken-in trekking shoes
  
• A 60–70L duffel bag or backpack
  
• High-quality sleeping bag (for cold nights)
  
• Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof jacket
  
• Personal toiletries + basic first aid
  
• Nutritious snacks & energy bars
  
• Water purification tablets, reusable bottle/bladder
  
• Sunglasses, cap, sunscreen, and trekking poles
  

Packing may vary by season, so plan accordingly. Need a full checklist? Scroll down to the Equipment Section for a detailed guide.

Getting ready isn’t just about throwing gear into a bag. It’s about prepping your body, your mind, and your route.

Here’s how to get trek-ready:

• Start regular hikes or long walks at least 1–2 months in advance
  
• Mix in cardio and strength training
  
• Learn about altitude sickness and how to prevent it
  
• Familiarize yourself with weather, trail conditions, and daily distances

Pricing varies depending on your style of travel—budget, mid-range, or luxury.

Here’s what impacts the cost:

• Trekking duration
  
• Accommodation type (basic tea house vs. upgraded lodge)
  
• Guide and porter services
  
• Transportation mode (tourist bus, private jeep, or flight)
  
• Trekking permits and group size
  

 Don’t just compare prices—check the “What’s Included” list to avoid unexpected expenses later. With us, what you see is what you get—transparent, fair, and full of value.

Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek concludes with not just memories, but also a sense of achievement. After returning to Kathmandu, we’ll host a special farewell dinner where you’ll receive a trek completion certificate. This evening is an opportunity to reflect on your journey, share feedback, and leave reviews on travel platforms to guide future trekkers.

If you plan to extend your stay in Nepal, we are happy to assist with additional activities such as cultural sightseeing, paragliding, or even arranging another short trek.

Departure – See You Again

At the end of your stay, we will provide private transportation to Tribhuvan International Airport and ensure a smooth departure. Our team will send you off with gratitude and warm wishes, hoping to welcome you back to Nepal again.

Private Treks

We organize private treks only. Your group will not be joined by other trekkers. For groups of more than 12 people, we provide an assistant guide to ensure smooth logistics and safety.

Secure Trek Bookings

Everest Destiny Trek is a government-licensed trekking operator. To confirm your booking, we require a 10% deposit, which you can pay online via credit card, bank transfer, Wise, or Western Union. After confirming your trek, please send your passport copy, travel insurance, and flight details within one week.

You can pay the remaining balance after your arrival in Kathmandu, either by cash, bank transfer, credit card, Western Union, or Wise.

Last-Minute Bookings

We accept last-minute trek bookings. If you’re ready for a spontaneous adventure, you can confirm your trek up to 24 hours before departure by paying the full amount. However, please note that unexpected issues like weather, landslides, or accommodation shortages may affect the itinerary.

For last-minute bookings, contact us on our website.

Flexible Departure Dates

We provide fixed departure dates for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. However, if your schedule does not match our calendar, we are happy to adjust the trek to your preferred dates.

If you decide to extend your time in Nepal, we can organize additional adventures such as sightseeing tours, paragliding experiences, jungle safaris, or even a new trekking route. Let us know your interests, and we will create a plan tailored to you.

To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need two essential permits:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit supports environmental conservation and grants entry to the protected area.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Required to ensure trekker safety by maintaining a record of those in the trekking region.

We manage all the necessary paperwork and obtain the permits on your behalf to ensure a hassle-free experience.