Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poonhill

Annapurna Region 13 Days TKACA13ABC

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill is one of Nepal’s most iconic Himalayan journeys, combining breathtaking sunrise views from Poon Hill with the majestic amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp. This 13-day adventure takes you through charming villages, lush forests, terraced fields, and glacier landscapes, offering a perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure. Every step brings you closer to the heart of the Himalayas, where mountains touch the sky and silence speaks louder than words.

Overview

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a spectacular journey into a natural Himalayan amphitheater surrounded by towering snow peaks. The trail begins from the vibrant city of Pokhara and gradually ascends through lush valleys, terraced farmland, and dense rhododendron forests.

 

Trekkers pass through culturally rich villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, and Bamboo, inhabited by Gurung, Magar, and other ethnic communities known for their hospitality and deep-rooted traditions. As the altitude increases, the landscape transforms dramatically—from green hills to alpine terrain and finally to the dramatic glacier basin of Annapurna Base Camp.

 

The highlight of the trek is standing at the base of the 10th highest mountain in the world, surrounded by giants like Annapurna I (8091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. This trek is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and Himalayan adventure.

 

Trip Facts

Duration 13 Days
Difficulty Moderate challenging
Max Altitude 4130m/13546ft.
Best Season Feb-Jun & Sep-Dec.
Style / Activity Trekking & Hiking
Group Size 1+ Travelers
Accommodation Lodge & Tea house
Start / End Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Travellers Per person
1 US$1,192
2 US$782
3-5 US$730
6-10 US$682

Licensed local operator. 24/7 support before and during your trip.

Trip Highlights

  • • Sunrise view from Poon Hill (3210m) over Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4130m / 13546ft)
  • Panoramic Himalayan views including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre & Hiunchuli
  • Walk through rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages
  • Natural hot spring bath at Jhinu Danda
  • Rich cultural experience of Himalayan communities
  • Moderate trek suitable for beginners with good fitness

Itinerary

Location: Kathmandu (1350m)
Duration: 30minutes hotel transfer
Meal: Not included
Accommodation: Hotel

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, We're grateful for the warm welcome extended by our official. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.

Note! Pre-trip meeting will be done at the office if you arrive before 4 pm and in your hotel itself if you arrive later in the evening. Be sure to bring two copies of passport-sized photos and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy to the meeting. These documents help to acquire trekking permits and related documentation during the trek. Pay the remaining balance of your invoice and sign in the legally binding trip form and non-liability disclaimer.
Location: Pokhara (822m)
Duration: 5-6 hours drive/25mins flight
Altitude Different: -578m/1895.84ft.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel

Your trekking staff will ensure a smooth transition for you from the hotel to the tourist bus station, beginning your journey to Pokhara at around 7:30 am. Pokhara, often hailed as the gateway to the Annapurna region, is a picturesque valley nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake.

Renowned for its breathtaking views, Pokhara offers panoramic vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks like Annapurna and Machapuchare to the north, Dhaulagiri to the west, and Lamjung Himal and Manaslu to the east.

Compared to the bustling energy of Kathmandu, Pokhara is smaller and more serene, making it an ideal starting point for your Annapurna Base Camp (Annapurna Santuary) trekking adventure. With its tranquil setting and proximity to the majestic Himalayas, Pokhara sets the stage for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Annapurna region.

Note! If you are joining with us from other cities. We will meet & assist in Pokhara. If you are unable to arrange vehicle/flight from your city to Pokhara. We arrange it as your preference. Upon arrived in Pokhara. Our representatives will pick you up from Airport or Bus Station to Hotel. And Check in Hotel (Check in time after 12:00 noon). Our guide will meet you and brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street.
Location: Banthanti (2210m)
Duration: 3 + 3 hours
Altitude Different: +608m/1994.24ft. & 1308m/4552.64ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge.

After breakfast drive to Hile. It takes 2.5 hours. And start trek to Banthanti. The trail goes step up with observing Tikhedunga, Ulleri villages and terrace field. Overnight at Lodge. 

Location: Ghodepani (2860m)
Duration: 4 hours
Altitude Different: +650m/2132ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge.

Trekking to Ghorepani through a rhododendron forest, especially during April-May when the nine species rhododendron blooms, must be an enchanting experience. The vibrant colors of the flowers would surely add to the beauty of the landscape.

Reaching Nangethani for a well-deserved rest before continuing on to Ghorepani sounds like a wise plan, allowing you to recharge and appreciate the journey. Ghorepani, with its picturesque Poon Magar settlement and numerous lodges catering to tourists, offers a cozy retreat amidst the mountains.

Taking in the evening mountain sceneries from the lodge must be truly mesmerizing, with the fading light casting a golden glow over the peaks. It sounds like the perfect way to end a day of adventure in the Himalayas. Enjoy the tranquility and the majesty of the mountains!

Location: Poonhill (3210m) & Tadapani (2610m)
Duration: 6 hours
Altitude Different: +350m/1148ft. &- 600m/1968ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge.

Today's itinerary begins with an early morning hike to Poon Hill, a renowned vantage point offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Starting the hike at dawn allows you to witness the spectacular sunrise over the high Himalayas, creating an unforgettable moment amidst the majestic scenery.

After spending 1 to 2 hours soaking in the breathtaking views from Poon Hill, you'll retrace your steps back to Ghorepani, where a hot breakfast awaits. Energized by the meal, the journey continues with a climb along ridges, traversing through lush pine and rhododendron forests towards Deurali (2,960 m/9,711 ft).

From Deurali, the trail descends to Banthanti before turning off towards Tadapani. This part of the trek offers a blend of scenic beauty and diverse landscapes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Annapurna region. As you traverse through forests and ridges, you'll have ample opportunities to appreciate the rich biodiversity and serene surroundings along the way.

Overall, today's hike promises to be a memorable adventure filled with breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and the tranquility of nature. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the Himalayas as you journey towards Tadapani, experiencing the magic of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek firsthand.

Location: Chhomrong (2140m)
Duration: 5 hours
Altitude Different: -470m/1541.6ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge.

Today's trek begins with a descent through steep rhododendron forests from Tadapani. As you make your way down the trail, surrounded by the lush greenery of the forest, you'll gradually transition into a more gentle descent as you approach Gurjung, a village inhabited by the Gurung people.

The trail continues with ease as you pass through Gurjung, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and observe the traditional way of life of the Gurung community. From Gurjung, the path leads to Chomrong (2,140 m/7,021 ft), a picturesque village nestled amidst the mountains.

Chomrong serves as a welcome stop on your journey, providing a tranquil setting for rest and relaxation after the day's trek. With its charming atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Chomrong offers a glimpse into the beauty and hospitality of the Annapurna region.

As you conclude your day's trek in Chomrong, take the time to unwind, savor the scenic views, and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead on your Annapurna Sanctuary trek.

 

Location: Dovan (2590m)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude Different: +450m/1476ft. & 760m/2492.8ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Today you will have to first go downhill to the river called Chomrongkhola and then uphill to Khudi-ghar. Hiking through dense bamboo forest and rhododendron bushes, amazing landscapes, and the Annapurna Himalaya range, the trail will take you to your final destination of the day, i.e., Dovan or Himalaya.

Location: Deurali (3230m) or MBC (3700m)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude Different: +800m/2624ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast, your day will start climbing the route onwards Himalaya. On the way you can explore the Hinku cave. After lunch, stay in Deurali or  the trail will continue to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp for overnight stay where you can have the closest glimpse of Machhapuchhre along with Annapurna-III and Gangapurna.

Location: Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) & Himalaya (2900m)
Duration: 2+5 hours
Altitude Different: +430m/1410.4ft. & -1540m/5051.2ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

This day you will be ascending through a small ridge branching out from the mountain pass to mountainside with widespread terraced fields showcasing tranquil meadows. As soon as you reach Annapurna South Base Camp, you will witness awesome picturesque landscapes, majestic panoramic view of snow-capped mountainous peaks and varied Himalayan cultural settings tucked beneath the southern slopes of the Annapurna massif.

Location: Chhomrong (2140m) or Jhinu Danada (1780m)
Duration: 6 hours
Altitude Different: -810m/2656.8ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

We follow the same trail descend until up to Bamboo,

Location: Pokhara (822m)
Duration: 1+3 hours.
Altitude Different: -360m/1180.8ft. & 958m/3142.24ft.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel

Today begins with a gradual descent through rhododendron and bamboo forests, offering a final glimpse of the lush landscapes of the Annapurna region. A short one-hour walk will bring you to Samrong Khola, where our vehicle will be waiting. From here, we drive back to Pokhara, a scenic journey of about three hours. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to relax by Phewa Lake, explore the lakeside, or simply unwind after the trek. Optional extensions are available in Pokhara based on client interests.

Location: Kathmandu (1350m)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude Different: +578m/1895.84ft.
Meal: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner included
Accommodation: Standard Hotel

We will be driving back to Kathmandu in the morning by Tourist Bus. In the evening, we host a farewell dinner in a fine restaurant. (Your guide(s) and an office staff will accompany you).

Location: Kathmandu (1350m)
Duration: 30minutes airport transfer
Altitude Different: N/A
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A

It’s the end of our exciting journey in the Annapurna region Today we conclude our 13 day Annapurna Santuray Trekking . One of our airport representatives will accompany you to the International Airport for your flight back home.

 

We bid you farewell, and hoping you’ll travel to Nepal again.

Cost Includes & Excludes

What's Included?

  • Accommodation: Twin sharing Room- 2 nights in Kathmandu & 2 nights in Pokhara at Standard hotel and clean and cozy Lodge/Teahouse Room during trek (Kathamndu Hotel is available on request)
  • Transportation: Two way transporation from Kathmandu to Pokhara by Luxury Tourist Bus, Private vehicle for Trek start/end - drop/pickup and necessary ground transportation.
  • Meals: Bed & Breakfast in Pokhara Hotel and Full board basis (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with tea/coffee/seasonal juice) during trek.
  • Support Crew: 1 Experience licensed trek guide and 1 porter for 2 clients including his/her allowances & insurance.
  • Permits: All required permits for trek (TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation area.).
  • Complimentary Gear: Duffel bag, sleeping bag & trekking poles (return after trek)
  • Additional Services: Airport/hotel transfers by private vehicle, First-Aid & essential kit, emergency rescue arrangements and All taxes & service charges

What's Excluded?

  • Personal expenses: Snacks, drinks, laundry, and other personal items.
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara Hotel.
  • Travel insurance: Must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
  • Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa).
  • Optional/add-on services: Extra assistant guide, personal porter, horse rental, or additional porters.
  • Emergency and unforeseen costs: Helicopter evacuation, additional expenses caused by strikes, weather, natural disasters, or itinerary changes.

Map and Elevation

FAQ's

It is a moderate trek suitable for beginners with basic fitness.

The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4130m.

No, but regular walking or light fitness preparaton is recommended.

Yes, but gradual ascent and proper hydration reduce risks significantly.

TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are required.

Yes, in most teahouses at an extra cost.

Basic teahouses and lodges with twin-sharing rooms.

Yes, charging facilities are available in most lodges (extra charge).

Nepali, Indian, pasta, soups, eggs, and basic continental meals.

Yes, but limited and slow in higher regions.

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