Annapurna Base Camp with Poon Hill Trek – 10 Days

The most significant experiences during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek include the sunrise view from Poonhill Viewpoint, cultural diversity along the villages, a hot bath at Jhinu hot springs, gorgeous mountain views from Annapurna Base Camp, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

Sunrise View from Ghorepani Poon Hill Viewpoint

Poon Hill viewpoint is one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints, and for good reason. This famous viewpoint offers a 360° panorama of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Gangapurna. On clear mornings, the first light of day turns the snowy peaks into glowing shades of gold, creating a magical moment.

To get to the viewpoint, on day 3, we will wake up before dawn in Ghorepani and hike for about an hour up stone staircases through rhododendron forests. While sunrise is the most popular, sunset views are equally stunning. The mix of local culture in Ghorepani and the unforgettable mountain scenery at Poon Hill make this stop a must for every trekker, beginner or experienced.

Local Culture in Villages Like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Deurali

You will experience the region’s diverse culture and tradition during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Most of the region’s residents belong to the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has its unique language, dress, culture, customs, festivals, and beliefs. For example, the women from the Gurung community wear Lungi while men wear Bhangro. Magar women wear traditional attire known as Chaubandhi cholo, while men wear Kaachhad. Similarly, the famous Ghatu dance belongs to the Gurung community, and the Maruni dance belongs to the Magar.

Likewise, some follow Hinduism while some follow Buddhism. You will also come across ancient monasteries and stupas, which reflect the influence of Tibetan Buddhism. Some ethnic groups also follow their indigenous religion. But one thing is common to them all: their warm and friendly hospitality. The teahouses, lodges, and homestays are common accommodations in the Annapurna region. Locals run these places along the trails. They offer authentic local cuisine, which you can taste during the trek. Thus, the trek to Annapurna Base Camp is not only an adventure but also a rich cultural exploration.

Relax Bath in the Jhinu Hot Springs After a Long Day’s Trek

After long trekking days, nothing feels better than a dip in the Jhinu Danda hot springs. After climbing to Annapurna Base Camp, we will descend to Bamboo and Jhinu Danda. At 1,600 m in elevation, the small village of Jhinu Danda is famous for its natural hot springs. To reach the hot springs, you must take a 30-minute hike on steep trails from the village. The hot spring pools lie on the Modi Khola Riverbank, and luscious trees surround them. You can soak and relax your tired muscles in the hot water while enjoying the views. Depending on the river conditions, you can also dip into the icy river waters. However, this is not possible when the river current is too strong, and the river level is too high. The hot springs will rejuvenate you, and you can return to the village to stay overnight.

Jaw-Dropping Views at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)

Reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is the ultimate reward of the trek. From MBC, you’ll see the iconic Fishtail Peak up close, along with other towering summits. A few hours further, ABC opens up into a natural amphitheater surrounded by giants like Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre. Standing at 4,130 m, the base camp feels like being in the heart of the Himalayas. The breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the snowy peaks make it one of the most unforgettable trekking destinations in Nepal

The distance between Pokhara and Annapurna Base Camp is 81.1 kilometers. From Pokhara, you will drive to Sudame, covering 12 km. The trek begins from Sudame, and you will cover around 11 km of distance daily. The trek will last approximately 5 to 6 hours. Doubtlessly, the trek is long in distance, but once you start your journey, you don’t want to stop it and go back from there. The expedition to Annapurna Base Camp is beautiful through varied terrain, amazing landscapes, and unique culture.

The trek passes through the lovely village of Ghorepani, from where you’ll hike to Poon Hill (3,200m), a popular viewpoint offering an astonishing sunrise view. Likewise, the trail passes through the traditional villages of Tadapani, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, and Macchapuchhre Base Camp. The excursion takes you through lush valleys, pristine rivers, and natural hot springs, witnessing the mule trains carrying supplies to remote villages, breathtaking glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. You can relax in comfortable teahouses, meet friendly locals, and experience warm hospitality throughout your journey. ABC Heli Tour is also a great option if you want shorter 1 day adventure with helicopter ride. If you are confused on whether to pick heli tour option or normal ABC Trek you should definately check out ABC Trek Vs Heli Tour blog.

On the ABC trek, you can find several meal options at the teahouses. You can have meals per the lodge/teahouse menu. While the lower elevation (Pokhara, Ghorepani, Chhomrong) has a vast range of meal options (from traditional Nepalese, Tibetan, and Western dishes), as you go higher (Deurali, Annapurna Base Camp), food choices become more limited, and prices increase. However, we provide three meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the finest tea house. Here’s the sample of the meal we provide:

Tips for trekkers:

• Hot water is available but may cost extra.
• Bring snacks and energy bars for trekking.
• Refill your bottle from taps along the trail. But use a purification tablet to filter water.
• Buying 4-5 mineral waters every day is impossible due to the high cost and limited availability.

You will stay in teahouses, lodges, and homestay accommodations on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. They are budget-friendly and provide basic facilities. Generally, rooms with attached bathrooms are not available during the trek. Instead, you’ll have shared bathrooms. The room has a twin-sharing bed with a modest wooden bed, along with a mattress, pillow, and blanket. Dining is in a communal dining area, often with a heater in the center. Moreover, charging facilities, WIFI, and hot showers are also available at the tea house but cost extra. The facilities of the tea houses become minimal as you ascend to higher elevations. Please refer to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Guide for better budget planning.

Our 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek package covers all your accommodations for the trek. We arrange your accommodations at lodges/tea houses on a twin-sharing basis during the trek. Upon request, we can arrange luxury hotels for you at Kathmandu and Pokhara, but not during the trekking journey, as the accommodations are basic during the trail.

You will stay at the following teahouses during the trek:

On the ABC trek, communication options are limited but available in most places. In lower areas (until Chhomrong), you can get mobile network coverage with Nepali SIM cards like NTC or Ncell. As you go to remote and high-altitude areas, the signals get weaker, and in some areas, there is no signal at all. Many tea houses have internet and Wi-Fi facilities, but they are usually slow, and you have to pay extra for them. When there is no mobile phone coverage or internet access, some teahouses or guides may have satellite phones for emergency communication.

Personal travel insurance is not included in our tour. So, you have to have trekking insurance from your insurance company. It’s not mandatory, but having one is recommended. Similarly, ensure that your travel insurance company has covered all your injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, rescue mission, loss of property, etc. Most importantly, ensure that your insurance policy has covered your 4000m plus trekking and adventure policy.

Travel insurance covers the cost of helicopter rescue from the mountains in case of major accidents and altitude sickness. A helicopter service is the only way out of the mountains during extreme cases of emergency evacuation.  In addition, make sure that your travel insurance is valid and not expired.

The journey to ABC begins with a drive to Sudame (1,350 m) from Pokhara through the Baglung Highway, taking 2 hours. From Sudame, your trekking starts via the terraced fields and villages of Hile and Tikhedhunga. You will climb uphill on stone-paved staircases to reach Ulleri and then to Banthanti (2,100 m). On the day, you’ll gain 750 m. The trek is moderate and takes approximately 4 hours.  Your second day’s destination is Ghorepani (2,800 m). From Banthanti, you will walk through the rhododendron forest towards Nangethanti, continuing to climb for an hour and a half before reaching Ghorepani. The trek is moderate and takes 4 hours, covering 10 km, and you’ll gain 700 m on the day. The next morning, you will take an early morning hike to view a sunrise from Poonhill’s view tower (3,193 m), which takes an hour of uphill climb.

The journey retraces back to Ghorepani from Poon Hill and sets off to the village of Tadapani (2,650 m), traveling through rhododendron forests. On the day, you’ll cover 14 km and walk for 6-7 hours, losing 150 m in elevation. The trek continues through the Rhododendron forest, passing through Chule. Hiking through an exposed ridge overlooking Machhapuchhre, you’ll reach Chhomrong (2,130 m), covering 14 km down and an uphill climb, taking 4-5 hours and losing an elevation of 520 m. The trail continues to Bamboo (2,300 m) from Chhhomrong, passing through Sinuwa village and walking uphill to the bamboo forests. The day’s walking distance is 14 km through uphill and downhill sections, taking 6 hours and gaining 170 m.

The sixth day begins with ascending through rocky paths, witnessing the change in scenery from green forests to highland pastures. Walking alongside the glacial Modi River and Hinku Cave on the way, you’ll reach Deurali (3,200 m), covering 12 km, taking 5 hours, and gaining 900 m. The day’s climb is quite challenging. The seventh day involves gradual climbing alongside the Modi River, past an icy cave, and trekking on rocky paths. A surreal mountain view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges will greet you after walking for 5 hours uphill, covering 8 km, and reaching the base camp of Annapurna (4,130 m). From ABC, you will retrace your path back to Bamboo, then Jhinu Danda (1,600 m), Samrung (1,500 m), and drive back to Pokhara.

The journey to Annapurna begins from Kathmandu and moves to Pokhara, the gateway to ABC. You have various options to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu, including ground and air. A daily flight to Pokhara operates from the domestic airport of Kathmandu, and it is one of the easiest ways to get there in only  25 minutes. Besides flight, ground transportation is also available, and options include tourist and public buses, cars, and Jeep.

However, you must travel by overland from Pokhara to Sudame. Jeep is the best option to get to Sudame from Pokhara, as the trail is unpaved and includes bumpy sections. The journey from Pokhara to Sudame takes 2 hours. However, the drive offers a scenic view of Nepal’s countryside, from terraced farmland to dense forests and traditional Nepali villages.

Getting an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit is mandatory for the 10-day ABC Trek. This permit allows trekkers to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is a protected region, and supports environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. Without this permit, you cannot legally trek through the area.

You can obtain the ACAP permit in person, either in Kathmandu or Pokhara. In Kathmandu, an ACAP permit can be issued at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office, located in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. Likewise, in Pokhara, an ACAP permit can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office, located in Damside, Pokhara. These offices are open from Sunday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They remain closed on Saturdays and public holidays, so it’s advisable to check the schedule before visiting.

To apply for the permit, you must provide an original passport, a copy of the passport, two passport-sized photographs, and cash in Nepalese Rupees (NPR) for the permit fee (credit cards or foreign currencies are usually not accepted). The ACAP permit fees are NRs 3,000 for foreign nationals, NRs 1,000 for SAARC nationals, and free for children under 10 years of age.

If you book the 10-day Annapurna Base Camp trek with Nepal Alternative Treks, the permit cost is included in the package. We handle all the paperwork on your behalf, so you do not need to visit the Nepal Tourism Board Office yourself.

Note: As of recent policy changes, Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card is no longer required for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Your trekking agency should confirm this, but it simplifies the process for independent trekkers.

Physical preparation

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp requires several hours of hiking each day, with steep climbs and descents. So, you must be physically fit. Some simple exercises can help you prepare, like running, cycling, or brisk walking to improve your stamina. For leg strength, do exercises like squats and lunges. Regular hikes with a backpack will also help you get used to trekking.

Mental preparation

Mental preparation is as important as being physically ready for the ABC trek. Choosing the best time for the trek will help you avoid mental weakness. You will have to walk for several hours so must be prepared mentally. You have to push yourself in challenging situtations. You must prepare your mind ready for what you’ll encounter on your trekking journey. You must stay positive throughout your trip.

Acclimatization

Acclimatization is very important because the ABC trek takes you above 4,000 meters. As you go higher, the air gets thinner, which can cause altitude sickness. To reduce this risk, you should plan your trek with acclimatization days to let your body adjust. Avoid drinking coffee, as too much caffeine can affect your body.

Annapurna Base Camp, situated at the base of the world’s tenth-highest peak, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m), lies at an impressive height of 4,130 m (13,549 ft) above sea level. Reaching the altitude is one of the most remarkable achievements and a moment one can cherish for a lifetime. However, the journey is not easy, but of course, stunning through diverse terrain, lush forests, and rocky paths within the Annapurna Conservation Area. ABC sits at an altitude of 4,130 m, where altitude-related issues are a significant concern. The higher the elevation, the lower the oxygen level, and the difficulty in breathing will increase accordingly. Thus, trekkers should be well aware of the challenges that might arise during the trek before attempting to conquer the height of the iconic base camp.

However, one can’t directly reach an elevation of 4,130 m; instead, trekkers should pass through numerous villages before reaching the altitude. Here is a brief breakdown of the elevation trekkers pass through to get the ultimate height of 4,130 m:

• Pokhara: Pokhara is the gateway to ABC at an 822 m / 2,696 ft elevation.
• Sudame: The trek to ABC begins from the village of Sudame, located at 1,537 m /  5,042 ft.
• Banthanti: At an elevation of 2,100 m / 6,930 ft, Banthanti is the first stop on the journey to ABC.
• Ghorepani: A famous village on the way to Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani lies at an altitude of 2,800 m / 9,240 ft.
• Tadapani: The village lies at an elevation of 2,650 m / 8,745 ft.
• Chhomrong: One of the most beautiful Gurung villages of the Annapurna region, Chhomrong lies at an elevation of 2,130 m / 7,029 ft.
• Bamboo: Located in the dense Bamboo forest, the village lies at 2,300 m / 7,590 ft.
• Deurali: The last destination before reaching Annapurna Base Camp, Deurali, lies at an elevation of 3,200 m / 10,560 ft.

Step by step, these villages guide you higher until you finally stand at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m / 13,549 ft)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Vs Everest Base Camp Trek is a dilemma for trekkers. The answer to this question can vary depending on personal preference. Both trek destinations are moderately difficult treks and have no age restrictions. However, altitude plays a crucial role in determining the trek’s difficulty. The Everest Base Camp trek reaches 5,364 m (17,598 ft). At this altitude, the oxygen level is much lower, and trekkers often feel short of breath or face symptoms of altitude sickness. On the other hand, the Annapurna Base Camp trek goes up to 4,130 m (13,550 ft). While still high enough to cause altitude issues, it is not as extreme as Everest.

Moreover, the Everest Base Camp trek usually takes 12 to 14 days, including rest days for acclimatization. The long duration adds to the difficulty but also gives trekkers more time to adjust to the elevation. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is shorter, taking 7 to 12 days depending on the route and pace. Likewise, the Everest Base Camp trail passes through Sagarmatha National Park and features steep paths, rocky ground, and narrow ridges. It is more rugged and can get crowded during the high season. The Annapurna Base Camp trail has stone staircases, terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and alpine meadows. The paths are well-maintained, and the climb is more gradual.

Not to mention, we need to fly by air to Lukla, the starting point of the trek, either from Kathmandu or Ramechhap airport. And during the busy season and bad weather conditions, the flight often gets cancelled or diverted to Ramechhap airport. This also adds to the difficulty of the EBC trek. On the other hand, Pokhara is the starting point of the ABC trek. And Pokhara is easily accessible by road and air from Kathmandu.

Hence, based on the altitude risk, longer trekking days, flight delays probability, and terrain and trail conditions, we can say that the Everest Base Camp trek is more challenging than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Clothing

• Thermal Tops and Bottoms
• Trekking Shirts
• Trekking Pants
• Fleece Jacket or Down Jacket
• Waterproof Jacket and Pants
• Hiking Socks
• Gloves
• Hat

Foot Wear

• Trekking Boots
• Sandals or Lightweight Shoes

Backpack

• Daypack (20-30L)
• Duffel Bag

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping Bag

Other Essentials

• Trekking Poles
• Water Bottles and Purification Tablets
• Headlamp
• First Aid Kit
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm
• Snacks

Accessories

• Gaiters
• Microspikes
• Travel Towel
• Personal Toiletries

Nepal Alternative Treks & Expedition has been offering tourism services for decades. We are a government-registered company and proud members of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN). Thus, you can make your Booking with us fearlessly. Booking your Annapurna Base Camp trek is straightforward and secure. Here is a guide to help you book your trip with us:

• Get in touch with us via WhatsApp or E-mail.
• Ask for details about the trip
• If you are okay with the trip package, cost, and everything, proceed with the booking procedure.
• To confirm your reservation, we ask for a 10% advance payment to guarantee your place for the trek.
• Within a week of Booking, please provide us with a scanned copy of your passport, two passport-sized photos, travel insurance, and flight information.
• You should pay us up to 50% of the total price, and you can pay the remaining once you arrive in Kathmandu.

Nepal Alternative Treks & Expedition provides a last-minute booking facility for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. We accept Bookings 48 hours before the trip. However, trekkers should make full payment during the booking time if considering a last-minute Booking. Moreover, we provide top-notch service and don’t compromise.