The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular and scenic treks, leading to the base of Annapurna I (8,091 m), the 10th highest mountain in the world. This trek takes you through dense rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and high-altitude landscapes, offering stunning views of Annapurna, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri. The journey culminates at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m), a breathtaking amphitheater of snow-capped peaks. With moderate difficulty, the trek is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers looking for a diverse Himalayan adventure.
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The optimum seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Spring gives brilliant rhododendron flowers, while fall provides bright skies and good mountain visibility. Winter (December-February) is feasible, although it brings low temperatures and snow, making certain stretches difficult. The monsoon season (June-August) is the least favorable because of severe rains, landslides, and leech-infested routes.
Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek. Here’s how you can reach Pokhara from India via different modes of transport:
Option 1: Flight via Kathmandu
Take a direct flight from India (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Varanasi) to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu.
From Kathmandu, take a domestic flight to Pokhara (PKR) (25-30 mins).
Alternatively, take a bus or private taxi from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km, ~6-8 hours).
Option 2: Flight via Gorakhpur (India) + Road to Pokhara
Fly to Gorakhpur Airport (GOP), Uttar Pradesh from major Indian cities.
Take a taxi/bus to the Sunauli border (Nepal-India border, 100 km, ~3 hours).
Cross the border and take a bus/taxi from Bhairahawa (Nepal) to Pokhara (6-7 hours).
Since there’s no direct train to Nepal, you need to reach a border city in India and continue by road.
Best Train Routes to Nepal Border:
To Gorakhpur (UP) Railway Station
Major trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other cities.
From Gorakhpur, take a taxi/bus to Sunauli Border (~3 hours).
Cross into Nepal and take a bus or taxi from Bhairahawa to Pokhara (~6-7 hours).
To Raxaul Junction (Bihar) Railway Station
Trains are available from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities.
From Raxaul, cross the border to Birgunj (Nepal) and take a bus to Pokhara (~8-9 hours).
To Jogbani Railway Station (Bihar) for Eastern India Travelers
Cross the border to Biratnagar (Nepal) and take a domestic flight or bus to Pokhara (~10-12 hours by road).
Option 1: Direct Bus from Delhi to Kathmandu + Bus to Pokhara
Delhi to Kathmandu:
Direct Volvo/Semi-sleeper buses from Delhi (Anand Vihar ISBT) to Kathmandu (~30 hours).
From Kathmandu, take a bus/taxi to Pokhara (~6-8 hours).
Option 2: Border Cross + Bus to Pokhara
Travel by train or bus to the Sunauli border (via Gorakhpur).
Cross into Nepal and take a bus/taxi from Bhairahawa to Pokhara (~6-7 hours).
Pack smart, trek safe!
Ensure you're prepared for every adventure with this essential checklist of gear and supplies. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trekker, the right equipment makes all the difference. Download checklist's pdf here
Backpack with Rain Cover | (40 - 50 ltr) Comfortable Shoulder Straps |
Day pack with Rain Cover | 20 - 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 Bottles(1 liter each), Hydration Pack 1 (Pack) + Bottle |
Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 1 Half sleeves |
Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Nos |
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | Not required |
Waterproof gloves | Not required |
Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun cap | 1 Nos. (One that covers the neck as well) |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | Not required |
Buff / Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos |
Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles - (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip) |
Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Micro spikes | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Sunscreen cream | 1 Nos |
Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
At Scoutripper, we understand that plans can change. You can reschedule your booking up to 24 hours before your experience begins. Changes are subject to availability and any applicable price adjustments. Rest easy knowing your adventure is flexible!
At Scoutripper, we value flexibility but also adhere to clear cancellation guidelines:
Mobile Network & Internet:
3G connectivity is available for the local network, NCell, for most parts of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Indian SIMs like Airtel, and VI work on international roaming where there is network coverage.
You can buy a local SIM from N Cell or Nepal Telecom in Kathmandu or at the airport.
ATMs & Cash Availability:
The nearest ATMs to the ABC trek are in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
There are no ATMs along the trekking route, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash for personal expenses.
Electricity & Charging Points:
Electricity is available at tea houses along the route.
These areas are prone to power cuts, so it is recommended to carry a power bank as a backup.
Some tea houses may charge an additional fee for charging electronic devices.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). It lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, surrounded by towering peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Annapurna South (7,219m).
The trek is considered moderate and is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. While it does not require technical climbing skills, trekkers must be prepared for long walking hours, steep ascents, and high-altitude terrain. Good fitness and stamina are essential.
The best time to trek to ABC is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. Winter (December-February) is cold with heavy snowfall, and the monsoon season (June-August) brings rain and slippery trails.
The trek typically takes 7-12 days, depending on the route and walking pace. Most trekkers start from Nayapul or Ghandruk, passing through villages like Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali before reaching the base camp.
Yes, you need two permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Required for entry into the conservation area. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card – Helps track trekkers for safety purposes. Both permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The ABC trek has well-established teahouses (lodges) offering basic accommodation and food. Rooms are simple with shared bathrooms, and meals typically include dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. Hot showers and WiFi are available at some lodges for an extra cost.
Yes, altitude sickness can be a risk, especially after 3,000 meters. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. Trekkers should acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually to prevent altitude sickness. If symptoms persist, descending is recommended.
Essential items include: Warm clothing (thermal layers, fleece, down jacket, waterproof gear) Good trekking boots with ankle support Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C recommended) Trekking poles and sunglasses Water purification tablets Snacks, first-aid kit, and altitude sickness medication
Yes, you can trek solo, as the trails are well-marked and plenty of teahouses are along the route. However, hiring a guide or porter is recommended for safety, local insights, and to ease the physical load. A guide is highly advisable if you are trekking in winter or monsoon.
Absolutely! The ABC trek offers stunning panoramic mountain views, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences. Trekkers pass through lush forests, terraced fields, charming Gurung villages, and alpine meadows before reaching the breathtaking amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for nature and trekking enthusiasts.