Classic Trek Routes to Annapurna Base Camp

Classic Trek Routes to Annapurna Base Camp is an extremely beautiful trekking trail in the Annapurna region. Nepal is home to eight of the world’s ten highest mountain peaks, making it an ideal destination for trekkers and hikers.  Moreover, Mt. Annapurna, located in Nepal and standing at 8091 meters tall, is ranked as the tenth-highest mountain in the world.

The trek to its base camp, situated at an altitude of 4130 meters or 13549 feet, is considered one of the most sought-after treks globally. When you reach the Annapurna Base Camp, you will have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of peaks such as Machhapuchre, Hiunchuli, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Pisang, Pungda Danda, and many other mountain peaks.

Renowned Mountains Around the Annapurna Base Camp Route

The spectacular view from this area is arranged in a circular shape with a diameter of 10 miles, and they include a deep, glacier-covered place at the center called the Annapurna Sanctuary. The Modi Khola river flows through a narrow gorge that is 12,000 ft deep as it moves south from this glacier basin.

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp takes you through some of the most spectacular and serene landscapes and charming villages of the Gurung and Magar people. This trek is a fantastic blend of different cultures and nature, making it an unforgettable experience that goes beyond just a trek.

Classic Trek Routes to Annapurna Base Camp

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not just about the stunning scenery but is celebrated for its cultural diversity. The trek provides an opportunity for trekkers to become familiar with Nepali people from various ethnic backgrounds, making it considered one of the best treks in Nepal for these reasons.

Overview of Customized Itineraries

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek’s usual itinerary ranges from 7 to 12 days, starting and ending in Pokhara and taking two additional days for transportation to/from Kathmandu, depending on the available time and the trekker’s physical fitness level. Many trekkers reach Annapurna Base Camp through the Ghorepani Poon Hill route, which is the more beautiful and preferred trekking trail in the Annapurna region. It’s quite a longer trek route than the short Annapurna base camp route.

The itinerary typically lasts between 10 to 12 days from Kathmandu. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered moderate and is not overly demanding, despite featuring obstacles like steep and rugged trails, stone stairs, and daily walking for 5-67 hours. It can be completed with patience, confidence, and good physical fitness.

Arriving Pokhara

Before beginning a ten-day hike to classic trek routes to Annapurna Base Camp, it is necessary to first travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. One way to reach the trailhead for Annapurna Base Camp is to take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then continue the journey by private car, taxi, or local bus. It just takes 30 minutes to get to Pokhara via plane from Kathmandu.

Taking a flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara offers a chance to see the beautiful scenery of Mount Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Dhaulagiri, and many more mountains up close. Another way to reach the trailhead for Annapurna Base Camp is to take a bus or micro from Kathmandu. If you choose to take a tourist bus, you will need to spend one day in Pokhara, as the journey takes around 7-8 hours on the road.

Standard ABC Trek in 2023

There are several routes to take during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. One of the most direct routes is through the Australian camp, Landruk, and Deurali, leading to the Annapurna Base Camp. If you want to make the trek longer, combine it with another route. Many trekkers choose to combine the Annapurna Base Camp trek with the Poon Hill trek. This option starts in Nayapul and requires 8-10 days to complete. Another popular choice for those who want to extend the Annapurna Base Camp trek is to combine it with the Mardi Himal trek.

ABC with Poon Hill Trek

The standard Annapurna Base Camp trek takes seven days for a round trip, but adding the 4 Days Poon Hill Sunrise Trek can take up to 10 days. Poon Hill (3210 m) offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the mighty mountains in the Annapurna sanctuary, including Dhaulagiri I, the 7th highest mountain in the world. The standard itinerary for the Annapurna Base Camp with Poonhill included is mentioned below:

Main highlights of ABC trek with Poonhill:

1. Two Base Camps- Annapurna Base Camp and Machhapuchhre Base Camp
2. The sunrise from Poon Hill, surrounded by the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, is a truly beautiful sight
3. Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
4. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) region is known for its beautiful rhododendron forests, which provide a cool and enjoyable walk.
5. The opportunity to explore charming villages and meet friendly local people along the way.

 ABC with Mardi Himal Trek

Another way to extend the Annapurna Base Camp trek is by combining it with the Mardi Himal Trek. This route is an excellent option for those looking for a less-crowded trekking experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is among Nepal’s least visited trekking peaks and offers a unique and peaceful experience.

It can be started at Kande and walk to Landruk or by taking a jeep to Siding and then start walking from there. The trek leads up to the Mardi Himal Base Camp and then down to Landruk. From there, it continues on the ABC trek. The combined trek will take 10-11 days to complete. The standard itinerary for the Annapurna Base Camp through Mardi Himal  is mentioned below:

Main Highlights of ABC trek with Mardi Himal Trek:

1. Panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and many other surrounding mountains.
2. The chance to witness picturesque villages, lush green hills, and beautiful forests of oak and rhododendron.
3. Experience the Nepali culture first-hand by staying in a local homestay in the hills during the trek
4. During the journey, you will have the opportunity to encounter authentic Pun and Gurung tribal villages.

However, Classic Trek routes to Annapurna Base Camp highly offer various scenarios with a thrilling hike around the breathtaking mountains. The different routes of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek provide a truly unique and amazing experience, offering breathtaking scenery, the opportunity to meet new people, and an unforgettable adventure.