Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route, Road Info and Distance

An exciting hike to the base of the world’s 10th tallest mountain, Annapurna (8091 m/26,550 ft), Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a wonderful adventure. At the heart of the Himalayas, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route traverses through several picturesque villages, lush forests, rivers, and diverse, mountainous terrains.

The ABC trek provides an unforgettable experience for all the adventurers. Starting from vibrant Kathmandu Valley, the trip commences towards the mountains along scenic drives along Prithvi Highway to Pokhara. Then, we went through rhododendron (Laliguras) forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrains of the Annapurna region.

Whether you are a beginner trekker or an experienced, seasoned trekker, we assure you that you will have the adventure of a lifetime. For a well-managed, exciting ABC trek, remember to contact Himalayan Masters. We are one of the most reputed trekking organizing companies, with a stellar rating on TripAdvisor.

However, there are some things that you must know about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek route, road, and distance before starting the trip. So, let’s discuss them in detail.

Road Access to Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp trek typically starts from Kathmandu. Or you can also start from Pokhara, one of the most popular touristic cities in Nepal. But the actual trekking journey only starts from Nayapul.

There are different modes of transportation that you can take to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu. You can either choose to take a flight or drive. Then, once you are in Pokhara, we will arrange a private vehicle that takes you to the starting point of the trek, Nayapul.

Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 Km/ 124 Miles)

Pokhara is about 200 km (124 miles) away from Kathmandu. It takes about 7-8 hours (depending on traffic) of driving through the Prithvi Highway, along the Trishuli River, to cover this distance.

Further, you can take a comfortable private jeep, a public tourist bus, or a private car to Pokhara. A private car and jeep take less time and are more comfortable than public buses, but they are a little expensive, about USD 120-200.

However, public tourist buses might take a little longer but offer a unique, immersive experience. Interacting with local people and learning about their daily lives is surely going to be a great opportunity. Also, the cost is really cheaper, about $15-$25.

Alongside the flight option from Kathmandu to Pokhara, additional access possibilities are available. Travelling between Kathmandu and Pokhara on board an aeroplane requires 25-30 minutes at a ticket price between $100-$125 one way. This provides additional time to explore Pokhara City while experiencing this brief travel adventure. Starting the trek becomes possible on the same day when you arrive early enough to take a flight to Pokhara.

Pokhara to Trek Starting Point 

Now that you are in Pokhara, trekkers need to take a vehicle to the trek’s starting point. Normally, the Annapurna Base Camp trek route starts from Nayapul, where we can also start from Ghandruk, Birethanti, Jhinu Danda, or Siwai.

Nayapul is about 40 km (25 miles) away from Pokhara, around 1-1.5 hours drive. The rest of the trek starting points are a little farther, which takes about 2.5-3 hours. A private jeep or car costs about $30-35, and a public vehicle costs about $2.

The route after Nayapul is a little bumpy but exciting. The trail goes through dense, lush Laliguras forests, traditional villages, wildlife, etc., within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Trek Starting Point Distance from Pokhara

• Nayapul: Around 40 km (25 miles)
• Birethanti: Around 42 km (26 miles)
• Ghandruk: 55 km (34 miles)
• Siwai: 60 km (37 miles)
• Jhinu Danda: 53 km (33 miles)

Off-road Conditions

The road from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Nayapul is good enough. Although the road is blacktopped, there might be some bumps, as some road construction is going on. Also, you might face some traffic due to these road constructions. Further, during monsoon season, roads might be blocked due to landslides. So, stay updated.

However, from Pokhara to Nayapul, the road is very good for about half an hour from there. There onwards, the route takes on a rough, graveled path. In spite of off-road, trekkers can enjoy every moment with the scenic views from their window seat.

Finally, once the trek officially starts, the route takes on a complete trek route. There are ups and downs, high altitude passes, valleys, plains, etc., all sorts of paths. Nonetheless, we can assure you that it’s one of the best trek trails to spend in the Himalayas for 8-10 days.

Annapurna Base Camp Trail and Its Conditions

So, are you ready to see through the Annapurna trek route and what its conditions are?

Nayapul to Ulleri Trail Distance and Conditions 

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara, we will drive to Nayapul and officially start the trek. The trail commences with a gentle walk along the Modi Khola/River. After you cross the suspension bridge in Tikhedhunga, you must hike up a difficult step path, exactly 3767 steps, to Ulleri.

This is around 12 km (7.5 miles) long route that takes about 4-5 hours to cover.

Ulleri to Ghorepani Trail Distance and Conditions 

This is another exciting day in our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary. Today, you will need to hike for about 3 hours, covering about 9 km (5.5 miles). The path leads through one of the biggest rhododendron forests in the world to Ghorepani/Ghodepani Village.

On the route, trekkers will be amazed to see stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and various colored rhododendron trees.

Ghorepani to Tadapani Trail Distance and Conditions 

The Ghorepani to Tadapani route is a very exciting route and day hike, as this day also includes the early morning Poon Hill Hike. Once you have enjoyed a jaw-dropping sunrise view from Poon Hill Viewpoint and had your breakfast in your teahouse at Ghorepani, we further continue the trek to Tadapani.

Tadapani is about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Ghorepani through dense forests.

Tadapani to Sinuwa Trail Distance and Conditions

Sinuwa is about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Tadapani, and it takes 6-7 hours to walk through various picturesque Gurung Villages like Chule, Gurjung, and Chhomrong.

Sinuwa to Deurali Trail Distance and Conditions

The route from Sinuwa to Deurali is somewhat easy. It’s about 11 km (7 miles), about a 5-hour walk, through beautiful Gurung villages like Bamboo, Dovan and Himalaya.

Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp Trail Distance and Conditions

ABC is only 8 km (5 miles) from Deurali. However, it takes about 6 hours, as there is a steep slope to climb. It’s an exciting trail because you will go through Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC).

Trail Challenges:

• Steep ascents and descents, especially between Ulleri and Ghorepani.
• Rocky and rough paths in higher altitudes.
• Landslide risk and slippery paths in the monsoon.

Seasonal Route Conditions

Trail Safety Tips

• Monsoon: Take waterproof shoes, leech guard or salt, and proper rain equipment. Additionally, step carefully in the landslide-sensitive zones and keep yourself informed.
• Winter: Take crampons and walking sticks for icy trails, wear and carry warm clothes for the cold, and keep an eye on weather forecasts and trail conditions.
• Spring/Autumn: Start early to avoid crowds and enjoy clear views, book teahouses in advance (especially at popular villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong), and stay hydrated.

Best Routes for Annapurna Base Camp Trek

There are several other routes other than the traditional Annapurna Base Camp Trek route. Each route offers a unique experience, different challenges and rewards. Where a short ABC trek offers easy route access, other routes could be long, challenging, yet rewarding.

Let’s briefly discuss each route option.

Short ABC Trek (5-6 Days, Around 60 km/ 37 miles)

For those looking for an easier, shorter, and faster way to reach ABC, this trek option could be the best choice. The trek only starts from Jhinu Danda, which can be reached by vehicle, skipping Poon Hill Hike and the grueling ascent to Jhinu Danda.

From Jhinu, ABC can be reached easily by passing through Chhomrong, Bamboo, and MBC.

This round trip will take about 5-6 days, covering around 60 km (37 miles). A short ABC trek can be categorized as a moderately difficult trek.

Classic ABC Trek (10-12 Days, Around 97 km/ 60 miles)

The Classic Annapurna Base Camp Trek route is the standard itinerary, which follows the Himalayan route. It starts with an exciting trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara via road or flight on the first day.

Finally, we will return the same route, with overnight stays at villages like Bamboo and Jhinu Danda, and end the trek at Pokhara.

This trek will take around 10-12 days in total, covering about 97 km (60 miles) total trek distance.

ABC and Mardi Himal Trek Combined (14-16 Days, Around 120 Km/ 57 miles)

If you are looking for an extended trip in the Annapurna region, then combining the classical Annapurna Base Camp Trek route with the Mardi Himal Trek could be the best option.

The combination of two incredible trek routes offers an opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the Annapurna region and some of the best views of Mardi Himal and other surrounding mountain ranges.

This trek first traverses through the Mardi Himal Trek route, finally connecting to the standard Annapurna Base Camp route. This whole trek takes a round trip of 14-16 days, almost 120 km (75 miles). Due to long walking days, this trek is considered a challenging trek.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Khopra Ridge (12-14 Days, Around 110 Km/ 68 Miles)

Khopra Ridge/Danda Trek in itself is an extraordinary trek route. Combining this trek with the classical ABC Trek route offers trekkers additional adventure and some of the best views of Annapurna massif, Fishtail (Machhapuchhre), and Dhaulagiri.

This trek route is best for those looking for less crowded trails, breathtaking ridge views, and a visit to Khayer Lake (4660 m/15,289 ft).

ABC and Khopra Ridge trek combined takes about 12-14 days in total, which is about 110 km (68 miles) long. This route can be considered moderate to challenging based on your experience and physical fitness.