Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp is the next popular trekking destination after Everest Base Camp. The trek has gained popularity for its beautiful mountain views, a natural hot spring, and diverse flora and fauna. Here is a brief explanation of the major attractions ofthe Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC)

Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) is the final overnight stop before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. It lies directly below Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail Mountain, which is considered sacred to Lord Shiva. Because of its religious importance, the Government of Nepal has never allowed climbing on this peak. The geography changes at MBC as the forests disappear and the trail enters the open Annapurna Sanctuary. The surrounding peaks, such as Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna, become much closer from this point onward.

Ghandruk Gurung Village

Ghandruk Gurung Village is one of the largest and most famous settlements on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Located at 1,940 m, the village is home to the Gurung community, which has a long history of serving in the Gurkha regiments. Visitors can explore the Gurung Cultural Museum to learn about local clothing, farming tools, musical instruments, and Gurkha history.

Chhomrong Village & Ridge

Chhomrong Ridge is the main gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. It is known for its long stone staircase with more than 2,500 steps that descends to the suspension bridge across the Chhomrong Khola before climbing back to Sinuwa. From the ridge, you can see Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and the Modi Khola valley below. The village also has many teahouses, bakeries, and small shops, which make it one of the most important rest stops on the route.

Natural Hot Spring at Jhinu

A natural hot spring lies on your way to the Annapurna Base Camp trekking trail. It is located in the small hamlet called Jhinu, the last stop of your trek. Jhinu is approximately 14 kilometers from Nayapul. This village is located next to the Modi River, which originates in the Annapurna Range. At the village entrance, next to the river, is a small pond where natural hot water springs up from below. This hot spring is believed to have healing properties and heal many health-related issues. Additionally, it serves as a relaxation point for trekkers who return after multiple days of strenuous trekking.

Annapurna Conservation Area

Annapurna Conservation Area Project is a government-led conservation initiative in Nepal. The biodiversity of the Annapurna region, located in the Kaski, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Parbat districts, is protected under this project. This project was initiated in 1986 and has since protected the natural resources of the area. The dense forests, flat lands of Mustang and Manang, high mountains, semi-arid terrain, raging white rivers, enriched fauna, and the distinct culture of the locals are preserved by ACAP. You will need an ACAP permit for the trek to Annapurna Base Camp. Permits usually range from $30 for foreigners and $10 for SAARC nationals.

Pokhara and Phewa Lake

Pokhara is the beginning and end of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for most trekkers. Located at 822 m, Pokhara is the main gateway to the Annapurna region and the place where many trekkers arrange permits, gear, and transportation before the journey. Phewa Lake is the most famous attraction in the city with boat rides and reflections of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. You can also take a boat to the Tal Barahi Temple, walk around the Lakeside area, and enjoy local restaurants and cafés before or after completing the trek.

Annapurna Massifs

The Annapurna Range, which rises to 8091 m, is a series of high mountains in western Nepal. The trek to ABC pierces through the base of these high mountains. From far away, these mountains seem astonishing. The peaks rise high and are shimmering with snow for most of the year.

On your traverse to Annapurna Base camp, you will traverse to the middle of these gigantic mountains. The prominent peaks as seen during ABC trek are Annapurna I (8,091 meters / 26,545 feet), Annapurna South (7,219 meters / 23,684 feet), Hiunchuli (6,441 meters / 21,132 feet), Machapuchare (6,993 meters / 22,943 feet), Gangapurna (7,455 meters / 24,457 feet)and Baraha Shikhar, Glacier Dom etc.

Can You Trek to Annapurna Base Camp and Fly Back by Helicopter

Yes, you can trek to Annapurna Base Camp and fly back to Pokhara by helicopter. This option is known as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return and is best for trekkers who want the full trekking experience without hiking back the same route. The flight to Pokhara takes about 15 to 20 minutes and provides beautiful aerial views of the Annapurna Sanctuary, glaciers, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and the Modi Khola valley.

Choosing the helicopter return reduces the itinerary from about 7 to 8 days to 4 to 5 days because it removes the long return trek over thousands of stone steps. A shared helicopter seat costs around USD 450 to USD 575 per person, while a private charter for up to five passengers costs about USD 1,980 to USD 2,200 for the entire flight. Helicopter departures depend on weather, visibility, and the number of confirmed passengers for shared flights, so flexible travel plans are always recommended.

How Much Does Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost in 2026/27?

Our 7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek package for 2026/2027  starts at USD 499 per person. At a current discounted rate, we are offering this package at USD 449 per person. The price includes transportation, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), trekking permit, and a guide fee. Here is a cost table for the 7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

The package price does not include accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (Kathmandu Guest House ) and Pokhara (Hotel Hidden Kingdom ). It also does not include transportation (flight, tourist bus, and private vehicle) from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and vice versa. The trip also does not include a porter (USD 20 per day). However, we can arrange these services if you ask us at the time of booking. The cost will change according to the services added.

All other services, such as international airfare, visa fees, travel insurance, trekking gear, tips, hot showers, internet, and drinks (including tea, coffee, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages) during the trek, are the trekkers’ personal expenses.

Gurung Culture Along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not just about viewing the Annapurna Himalaya. The trip is also an enriching cultural experience. 90% of the locals residing along the ABC trail belong to the Gurung ethnic community. As you traverse the scenic trail, you will also have the opportunity to explore the Gurung culture and lifestyle. Ghanruk and Chhomrong are two of the biggest Gurung villages. Let’s take a closer look at their unique and vibrant culture:

Profession:

The traditional occupation of the Gurungs are as follows:

• Traditional sheep farm: The Gurung people still have sheep farms. They have long practised sheep herding and are deeply tied to their way of life. The wool from the sheep is used to weave traditional blankets and garments like Radi and Pakhi. Similarly, the sheep dung is used for compost for their farms, as the Gurung people also practice agriculture. They grow corn, millet, potatoes, beans, rice, and other seasonal vegetables.
• Honey Hunting: The Gurungs still practice traditional honey hunting. The hunters collect wild honey that giant Himalayan bees make in the steep cliffs. To harvest the honey, they still use handmade bamboo ladders and ropes. Honey hunting is more than just an occupation for the Gurungs. It is a cultural ritual passed down from generation to generation. If you are lucky, you can see it during your trek. You can also buy or test wild honey.
• Join the Gurkhas (British Army, Singaporean Police, Indian, and Nepali Army): Gurung men have a long history of serving in the military of both national and international forces. Renowned for their bravery, loyalty, and discipline, they have been serving in the Nepalese Army. Similarly, they also have a respected place in the British Gurkha Regiment, the Singapore Police Force, and the Indian Army. During the trek, you may have the opportunity to meet and interact with Gurung families who have members currently serving or retired from their military service.

Religion

The Gurung people traditionally followed the Bon religion, which is an ancient spiritual practice that predates Buddhism. Bon practice is centered around a shamanic belief system. It involves worshiping nature, ancestral spirits, and shamanic rituals. Following the arrival of Tibetan Buddhism (15th-17th century), it also influenced Gurung culture.

At present, many Gurungs follow Buddhism. However, traces of Bon religion remain deeply rooted in their culture and daily life. The unique blend of Bon and Buddhist practices has made Gurung culture unique on its own. It honors both the teachings of Buddha and worships nature and ancestral spirits.

Priests

The Gurung community has a unique religious system, with different types of priests performing various rituals. Each plays a crucial role in life-cycle ceremonies such as birth rituals, rice-feeding (weaning), weddings, and death ceremonies.

• Gurung Lama: They are Buddhist priests who perform rituals like prayers, funerals, and other religious ceremonies. The lamas follow the Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
• Poju or Pachyu: They are Bon or shamanic priests. Poju or Pachyu are more spiritual mediums or healers. They perform rituals to communicate with ancestral and natural spirits.
• Gyabri or Ghyabri: They are also priests who perform Bon-based rituals. These priests mostly perform household and communal ceremonies.
• Jhakri: They are shaman who perform spiritual healing and protection rituals. The Gurung people use jhakri to deal with sickness or misfortune. Likewise, they perform rituals for households, crops, livestock, and villages.

Culture Dress

The Gurung people also have their own distinct traditional attire that reflects their unique cultural identity and heritage. The traditional cultural dress of women includes a lungi (a wrap-around skirt), a Makhamali blouse, and a Ghalek shawl. They also wear traditional jewelry made of gold/ silver, and ornaments that reflect their social and marital status.

Similarly, the men wear a Bhoto (vest) over a Bhangra skirt or suruwal (trousers), and a bhakhu (woolen coat). Men also wear accessories like woolen belts, scarves, and sometimes a khukuri sheath.

Festivals

Among the many festivals celebrated by the Gurung community, Tamu Losar (Gurung New Year) is the biggest. It is celebrated on Poush 15 or 30th December based on Miti (Date). According to the Georgian calendar, the New Year falls between Christmas and the English New Year. The 12-year cycle of the Gurung calendar is similar to the Tibetan lunar new year. However, the timing and rituals are different. Each year is represented by an animal: cow, tiger, cat, eagle, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, bird, dog, deer, and mouse. Animals play a significant role in the celebration.

Other festivals celebrated by the Gurung people include Maghe Sankranti, Shrawan Sankranti, Buddha Jayanti, and Holi. Families come together and celebrate these festivals. There are also community gatherings. They serve sel roti, achar, kodo raksi (millet liquor), and other local delicacies. The festival is also accompanied by prayers, dances, and music.

Local Kodo Raski / Millet wine

Kodo raksi is a traditional millet wine that is an integral part of Gurung culture. It is served in all major festivals, rituals, and celebrations. The millet wine is important not only for social purposes but also for religious purposes. The raksi is an organic, home-brewed liquor. Every family has its own traditional method of preparing this alcoholic beverage, which is passed down through generations.

Cultural Dance/ Music

The cultural dance and music of the Gurung community is more than a means of entertainment. It reflects their history, tradition, social life, and folklore. Rodhi and Dohari are two popular folk songs of Gurungs. They are often performed in Rodhi houses, where youngsters gather in the evening. The songs are usually call-and-response duets about love, life, and more.

The traditional Gurung dances are performed during auspicious ceremonies like festivals and weddings. Sorathi and Ghatu are two popular dance forms. In Sorathi, the dance is performed in a circle, which tells the story of folklore and heroism. Meanwhile, Ghatu is a ritualistic dance and seasonal celebration. Young girls perform it during the spring festival. The dance is accompanied by music and tells about mythology.

Language

The Gurung people also have their own unique Gurung language, known as Tamu Kyi or Tamu language. It belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family. Their language is also an essential part of their cultural identity. It is rich in stories, proverbs, and folk songs. The language was traditionally oral. With the community’s efforts, it has also developed into written forms. Their language is an integral part of their daily life and is passed down from generation to generation.

Annapurna Marathon / Annapurna Day

The French Expedition led by Maurice Herzog successfully summited Annapurna I on June 3, 1950. The Annapurna Marathon and Annapurna Day are celebrated to honor this successful ascent. This marathon starts from Annapurna Base Camp 4130m to Ghandruk village via Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Bagar, Deurali, Himalaya, Dovan, Bamboo, Banuwa, Sinuwa, Chhomrong, Ghurjung, Chuile, Kimrong Danda, Kimrong Khola, and Uri. During the marathon, participants can enjoy the scenic views and witness the local lifestyle of the Gurung people. The day is also the celebration of the history, heritage, and culture of the Annapurna region.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek

Are you confused about ABC or EBC? Here is a difference between these trekking adventures, which can be beneficial for you to choose any of the next trekking destinations:

Alternative Trekking Route for Annapurna Base Camp

If you are looking for an alternative route to reach the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, then you have multiple options. Each alternative offers you something different, experiences, and challenges. Here are some options for you:

Annapurna Base Camp Trek With Poon Hill

• The trek duration is  9 days, ideal for trekkers with good health and fitness.
• The adventure combines a classic trail to the Annapurna Base Camp with the popular Poon Hill View Point.
• See one of the most beautiful sunrises, with wide views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Shaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and other nearby peaks.

Mardi Himal Trek

• A relatively new trek that is easily accessible and takes only 3 to 5 days to complete.
• The off-the-beaten trail takes you along high ridges and less-explored areas of the Annapurna region.
• Enjoy a peaceful trekking experience and enjoy gorgeous views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and other surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Khopra Danda Trek

• The trek takes 7 to 12 days to complete and is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
• You will hike on a quieter trail away from the crowds while enjoying beautiful views of snow-covered mountains.
• Take a hike to Khayer Lake, a sacred alpine lake right under the Annapurna South and Khopra Ridge.

Jomsom to Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• A perfect trek for those seeking a unique trek experience in the Annapurna region, and takes only 9 to 12 days.
• It’s a lesser-known route to the Annapurna Base Camp that connects with the Mustang region.
• Enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and arid landscapes of Mustang.

North Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• North Annapurna Base Camp, known as the Annapurna First Base Camp is less-traveled, remote, more challenging. Therefore, it is more suitable for experienced or seasoned trekkers.
• The northern route is less developed with only simple lodgings available. Experience the Tibetan-influenced culture and witness authentic highland lifestyles.
• Ideal for those who want a raw and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure. It offers a closer view of the towering mountain vistas like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.

If you have any other preferences, please don’t hesitate to consult with us. Based on your preferences and time, you can customize your Annapurna Base Camp trekking itinerary. No matter which trekking route you choose, traditional or different, you can see beautiful views of the Himalayas, thick forests, and terraced fields. The rewarding experience makes any challenge worth tackling.

Is ABC Trek the Best in the Annapurna Region?

The ABC Trek is often considered one of the best treks in the Annapurna Region. This is because of its varied landscapes and beautiful mountain views. The Annapurna Base Camp trail will take you through lush rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and terraced farmlands. With an adventure of about 7 to 8 days, you will reach the majestic Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks.

This trek not only offers you scenic beauty but also offers a chance for cultural immersion, making it a top choice among trekkers. In addition to that, this trek is also one of the easy trekking adventures in the Annapurna region, with shorter days and well-marked trails. With the combination of all these factors, the ABC trek is the top trekking destination in the region, attracting over 1000 trekkers every year.

However, the “best” trek depends on your preferences and trekking goals. While ABC offers a relatively short and direct route to experience the Himalayas, other treks, such as the Annapurna Circuit or the Mardi Himal Trek, provide different experiences, including crossing high-altitude passes and exploring less-crowded trails. For many, the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is an unbeatable blend of adventure and accessibility in the Annapurna Region.

Elevation of Annapurna Base Camp

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is located at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) above the sea level. The level of altitude involved make it a high-altitude trekking destination. However, it is not as extreme as the other Himalayas Base Camp like Everest Base Camp. From this high spot, you can see wide views of peaks like Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli, making a stunning background for trekkers.

The altitude requires careful acclimatization, especially for those unaccustomed to high altitudes. To prevent altitude sickness, you should ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and take proper acclimatization breaks during the trek. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at this elevation is a rewarding experience, allowing you to witness some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the world.

Challenges of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Let’s look at some of the biggest challenges of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek that may affect your journey:

• Climb more than 2,500 stone steps around Chhomrong and Chhomrong Khola, which place extra pressure on the knees and leg muscles.
• Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m, where the available oxygen is about 60% of sea level.
• Watch for symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) between Deurali (3,230 m), Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m), and Annapurna Base Camp if you ascend too quickly.
• Unpredictable temperature changes, as daytime temperatures in the lower valleys can exceed 25°C while nights at base camp often fall between -5°C and -15°C.
• Sleep in basic teahouse rooms without heating.Expect long daily walks of 5 to 7 hours on suspension bridges, rocky trails, dusty canals, and forest paths.
• Reusable water bottle requirements can be challenging, as single-use plastic bottles are restricted in many parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
• Many lodges don’t serve meat because the Annapurna Sanctuary is considered sacred by local communities.

WiFi and Internal Access During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will find Wi-Fi and internet access at most tea houses along the route. However, the speed and reliability of the connection can vary depending on the location. In lower-altitude areas like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, internet connectivity tends to be better than at higher altitudes. You may need to pay a small fee of $2 for Wi-Fi usage. Note that the cost usually increases as you go higher.

It is always a good idea to manage your expectations about connectivity in remote areas. To stay connected throughout the trek, you can also purchase a local SIM card like NTC or Ncell with data packages. NTC SIM work up to MBC which is better option for this trek. These networks work well in some parts of the Annapurna region but may have limited coverage in higher altitudes. There is electricity up to MBC but ABC has only Solar Panel to charge. Carrying a power bank is essential, as charging facilities are limited and often come with an extra fee.

What Can You Expect During Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, you can expect to witness the 10th-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8,091m), alongside Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m). You can witness the beautiful sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas every morning and evening, which is definitely mesmerizing. You can also experience the unique culture and tradition of the Gurung people, inspired by Tibetan Buddhism. People here are friendly and make you feel at home.

Throughout the journey, you will be staying in teahouses and family hotels. They offer you basic amenities and a warm atmosphere. Although there are some perks to this trekking adventure, the Himalayas can definitely come with some challenges. Featuring a variety of landscapes, you will ascend to an elevation of over 4,000 m, which can be pretty demanding. With a moderate level of challenges involved, this trek is perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Duration

Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be completed in 7 days, but this is an express itinerary that suits trekkers with good fitness and limited travel time. The route covers about 65 to 70 km with daily walks of 5 to 8 hours. The trek starts near Pokhara and traverses Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. This shorter itinerary reduces the overall trip length but requires longer walking days and faster altitude gain than the standard 9 to 11-day itinerary.

You can choose between a road and an air route to get to Pokhara, depending on your needs and preferences. From Pokhara, you will again take a short drive to Nayapul, Birethanti (ACAP Check Point ), Kly Danda or Ghandruk. The ABC trail passes through scenic villages like Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or additional acclimatization days, the trek can take closer to 10 to 12 days.

Shorter options, like the 7-day trek, are ideal for trekkers with limited time but require a higher level of fitness and longer trekking hours each day. On the other hand, longer itineraries allow you to enjoy the journey at a slower pace. You can soak in the beauty of the Annapurna region and experience local culture in more depth. No matter how long the trip is, good planning and preparation will help you enjoy this beautiful Himalayan journey.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2026/2027 Weather & Best Time

Seasons highly influence the Annapurna Base Camp Trek experience. It also shapes the safety, comfort, and scenery during the journey. Depending on the season, your journey can be magical and memorable or uncomfortable and miserable. So, picking the right season for the ABC Trek is crucial.

Spring from March to May and Autumn from September to December are the two best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. These seasons offer you clear skies, stable weather, and mild temperatures, making it a perfect time for adventure in the Annapurna region. Aside from these two seasons, summer (June to August) and winter (December to February) are the off-seasons. If you want to avoid the big crowd of peak season, you may choose ABC Trek in winter season. Little bit cold still clear weather. Here is a brief on each season to help you decide the right one for your ABC Trek:

Spring (March to May)

• Trail condition: Dry, stable, and comfortable
• Visibility: Very good, especially in early mornings
• Rainfall pattern: Minimal rainfall
• Landslide risk: Very low
• Snow pattern: There can be snow patches near Machhapuchhre Base Camp during March. The snow melts by April, and the trail is clear by May.
• Seasonal speciality: Blooming rhododendrons and wildflowers add vibrant colors to landscapes. The wildlife is also most active, so you may get wildlife sightings during the journey.

Autumn (September to November)

• Trail condition: Dry, firm, and clearly defined
• Visibility: Excellent and one of the clearest among all the seasons
• Rainfall pattern: Occasional rainfall during early spring, but it gets dry and stable by October.
• Landslide risk: Moderate risk in early September
• Snow pattern: Mostly snow-free, but there can be light snowfall at Annapurna Base Camp in late November.
• Seasonal speciality: A crisp, clear sky offers the best mountain views. The landscape and vegetation look fresh and vibrant. Daytime temperatures are also the most comfortable for trekking.

Summer (Monsoon):

• Trail condition: Muddy, slippery, and lower forest trails are infested with leeches
• Visibility: Poor due to frequent clouds and mist obscuring mountain views.
• Rainfall pattern: Heavy, frequent rainfall, with July as the peak season.
• Landslide risk: High risk, particularly in narrow valleys and steep sections in areas along the Modi Khola and between Jhinu Danda and Chhomrong.
• Snow pattern: Occasional fresh snow at Annapurna Base Camp, but it quickly melts away.
• Seasonal speciality: Quiet trail with very few trekkers, lush green landscapes, and cascading waterfalls.

Winter:

• Trail condition: Dry and firm in the lower region, but icy and snow-covered in elevation above Deurali (3,230 m).
• Visibility: On clear days, visibility is excellent, with crisp, unobstructed views of the mountains. Visibility drops sharply during snowfall or winter storms.
• Rainfall pattern: Very low
• Landslide risk: Very low
• Snow pattern: Regular snowfall above 3,000 m, and the piled-up snow may block the trail to Annapurna Base Camp.
• Seasonal speciality: Tranquil trails, snow-covered Himalaya landscapes, and crisp views of the snow-capped mountain vistas.

How to Prepare For The ABC Trek?

The points below will help you prepare your body and pack the right items so you’re ready for your trip.

• Arrange your ACAP Permit and trekking documents before leaving Pokhara because they are checked at entry points on the route.
• Carry Nepalese cash because ATMs are not available beyond Birethanti.
• Train for 6 to 8 weeks before the trek with hiking, stair climbing, jogging, cycling, or swimming to improve stamina.
• Strengthen your legs with step-ups, squats, lunges, and calf raises because the trail has thousands of stone steps around Chhomrong.
• Practice walking with a backpack weighing 5 to 8 kg for 3 to 4 hours to prepare for daily trekking distances.Pack well-used hiking boots, trekking poles, warm
• clothing, rain protection, and a headlamp for early morning walks to Annapurna Base Camp.
• Consult your doctor before traveling if you have health concerns or want advice about Acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude sickness prevention.
• Include a personal first aid kit with blister treatment, pain relief medicine, sunscreen, lip balm, and bandages.

Do We Need Permits for Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

If you are trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in 2026 or 2027, you will need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). As the trekking trail passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, getting this permit is mandatory. The permit is issued to protect the rich biodiversity of the area. Getting this permit ensures you are a responsible traveler and presents your responsibilities as a trekker. The permit is checked at the entry point in Birethanti, Chhomrong. Trekkers can obtain ACAP in 2026/27 at Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu/Pokhara or Birethanti checkpost via a registered trek agency.

Accommodations During The Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The most common means of accommodation in the ABC trek are teahouses and lodges, which are more like homestays than hotels. A teahouse is a house with a wooden structure built in mountainous areas. In lower regions, the teahouses have better facilities and amenities. Some may even provide single rooms. However, the higher you go, the more rustic they become. These tea houses offer rooms ranging from 2-person to 5-person group rooms during your trek. As they have limited rooms.

The accommodation facilities are very basic, with rooms having beds, mattresses, quilts, and pillows. Common rooms are available in Ghandruk, Jhinu Danda, Sinuwa, Deurali, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), and Dovan. Bathrooms are communal with an Asian squat style. Wi-Fi and Hot showers are available but cost extra. Power sockets are available only in the dining area as you trek higher than Chhomrong. Ghandruk, Sinuwa, Duerali, Dovan, and Jhinu have electricity. ABC has only a solar panel to charge.

Generally, the rooms have poor insulation, so trekkers are advised to carry a sleeping bag (-10 C ) during the ABC Trek. A log fire heating system is available only in communal spaces and dining halls. The locals of the region run these accommodations, so it is the best way to experience the cultural richness and friendly Nepalese hospitality. You can also observe the lifestyle of the Gurungs and Magars, as well as get a peek at their culture and customs.

Food Menu for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

During your trekking adventure, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of culinary delights. The teahouses offer both Nepalese and Continental dishes, providing a taste of local flavors. The Lodges have a Menu; you will have your own choice. The food is hygienic, but the menu is limited in higher altitude regions.

• Breakfast: Simple Breakfast (Eggs with hashbrown potato, toast or Gurung or Tibetan Bread, Pancake, Muesli, oat porridge, etc.)
• Lunch and Dinner : Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetable, Papad, Tomato Hot spicy, Chicken curry optional), Macaroni, Spaghetti, Potato item, Mo: Mo or dumpling, Pizza, Fried Rice, Fried Noodles, French fries, etc. We recommend to try a Pizza at Duerali, ABC, and Dovan during this trek.
• Dessert: Fresh fruit (apple, orange, pomegranate, banana, and any seasonal fruit) served as a sweet dessert.
• Popular Local Delicacies: Wild honey, Gurung bread, Local millet wine, Chyangra sukuti, Jungle bamboo shoot pickle or curry, Dakaya (dried vegetable), Mushroom

Note: All drinks, including soft, hot, and alcoholic beverages, are not included. If you have any specific dietary requirements or preferences for meals during your trekking journey, be sure to inform your operator at the time of booking.

You Can Also Check: Food and Accommodation during Annapurna Base Camp Trek