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. It makes an ideal destination for trekkers and hikers.  Moreover, Mt. Annapurna, located in Nepal and standing at 8091 meters tall, is ranked as the 10th highest mountain in the world.

The Annapurna Base Camp is situated at an altitude of 4130 meters or 13549 feet above sea level. It is considered one of the most sought-after treks globally. When you reach the base camp of Annapurna you will have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of peaks such as Machhapuchre, Hiunchuli, Annapurna I, and other sparkling 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 ABC Trek takes you through some of the most spectacular, serene landscapes and authentic 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 Trekking itinerary ranges from 7 to 12 days, starting and ending in Pokhara. It takes 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. This trekking route is the most beautiful and preferred trekking trail in the Annapurna region. It’s quite a longer trek route than the short Annapurna base camp route.

The trek itinerary basis between 7 to 12 days from Kathmandu. However, you can customize the trip program as per your holiday length and specific requirements. The trek is a favorable and moderate trail that offers diverse nature with cultures. Despite featuring obstacles like steep and rugged trails, stone stairs, and daily walking for 5-7 hours. It can be completed with patience, confidence, and good physical fitness.

Arriving Pokhara

Before starting to 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. Besides flights, you can drive to Pokhara.

Taking a flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara offers a chance to see the beautiful scenery of Mount Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Dhaulagiri. 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 2024

There are several routes to take during the ABC Trek. There is a direct route 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. Even though, 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. 7 days 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. Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) region offers diverse flora and fauna.
5. Get an 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. As well as 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.

Lastly, 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.