Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 5 Days

After breakfast, leave Ghandruk and begin the trek toward Chhomrong. The trail initially follows a gradual uphill route along the Modi Khola valley, passing through terraced farmland, lush woodland, and open viewpoints.

Along the way, enjoy distant views of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. The trail then descends through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests toward the Kimrong Khola, a river originating from the surrounding glaciers.

Cross the river using a long suspension bridge before beginning another challenging uphill section. Although the ascent requires steady effort, the peaceful forest surroundings and spectacular Himalayan scenery make the climb rewarding.

Eventually, arrive at Chhomrong, a large hillside settlement inhabited by the Gurung community. The village is closely connected with Ghandruk and offers beautiful views across the surrounding mountains.

After breakfast, descend from Chhomrong toward the Chhomrong Khola. The route follows a long series of stone steps winding through terraced land and forested slopes.

At the bottom of the valley, cross the river by suspension bridge and begin climbing again through dense vegetation. Continue toward Sinuwa at 2,360m, where you can stop for refreshments while enjoying views over the green valley.

From Sinuwa, the trail enters thick rhododendron and bamboo forests. The shaded pathway creates a cool and peaceful trekking environment, accompanied by birdsong and the sound of nearby streams.

Continue through Upper Sinuwa before gradually descending toward Bamboo. Surrounded by dense bamboo vegetation, this small settlement provides a quiet place to spend the night.

Today, continue from Bamboo at 2,310m toward Deurali, moving deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail gradually leaves the thick bamboo forest behind as the landscape becomes higher, more rugged, and increasingly alpine.

The early part of the route passes through dense woodland and along sections featuring waterfalls and streams. You will pass through small settlements such as Dovan at 2,600m and Himalaya at 2,920m, which provide convenient places to rest, drink tea, and refill your water.

Beyond Himalaya, the trail becomes steeper and more demanding. The route passes narrow ridges, cascading waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and exposed sections of mountain terrain.

As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes thinner and the temperature cooler. Follow the Modi Khola, cross small wooden bridges, and walk beneath impressive cliffs. Wildlife may also be encountered, including gray langurs and colorful Himalayan pheasants.

By late afternoon, reach Deurali at 3,230m, a small mountain settlement surrounded by dramatic peaks. The alpine atmosphere and cooler air signal that you are approaching the higher section of the trek.

Today is the major highlight of the trek as you make your way from Deurali into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

After leaving Deurali at around 3,200m, the trail gradually climbs into a spectacular high-mountain environment. Massive snow-covered peaks surround the route, while the air becomes noticeably cooler and thinner.

The trail first passes through a narrow gorge surrounded by impressive cliffs and sections of avalanche debris. After approximately two hours, reach Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) at 3,700m.

Although known as a base camp, MBC is not used for climbing Machapuchare because climbing the mountain is prohibited. The location provides outstanding views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and the surrounding peaks.

From MBC, continue across a broad alpine valley. As you approach Annapurna Base Camp, the landscape opens into a magnificent natural amphitheater surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Tent Peak, Gangapurna, and Glacier Dome.

After approximately 5–6 hours of trekking, arrive at Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m. Take time to appreciate the extraordinary mountain scenery and celebrate reaching one of Nepal's most renowned Himalayan destinations.

Wake up to magnificent Himalayan scenery before beginning your descent from Annapurna Base Camp toward Bamboo.

The route retraces the trail through the Annapurna Sanctuary, allowing you to experience the dramatic mountain landscape from a different perspective. Begin with a gradual descent past Machapuchare Base Camp, followed by the route through Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan.

As you lose altitude, the landscape gradually changes from exposed alpine terrain into greener forests. The air becomes warmer, vegetation becomes denser, and the surroundings take on a more humid character.

Although the entire route is downhill, the journey is physically demanding because of the long walking distance and continuous pressure on the knees. Maintaining a comfortable pace and using trekking poles can be helpful.

By late afternoon, reach Bamboo at 2,310m, a peaceful forest settlement surrounded by bamboo groves where you can relax after the long descent.

Today, trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, combining forest trails, mountain scenery, downhill sections, and the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs.

Begin with a short ascent toward Sinuwa, followed by a descent toward the Chhomrong Khola along steep stone steps. After crossing the area, continue uphill toward Chhomrong Village, where you can take a break and enjoy the surrounding mountain views.

From Chhomrong, follow the trail steeply downhill toward Jhinu Danda. The route winds through lush forest and terraced hillsides before reaching the village.

Jhinu Danda is particularly famous for its natural hot springs, located approximately 15–20 minutes downhill from the village beside the Modi Khola River. After several days of trekking, spending time in the warm mineral-rich water offers an excellent opportunity to relax and refresh.

Today marks the final trekking section of the journey. Leave Jhinu Danda and follow the Modi Khola downstream through terraced farmland, suspension bridges, forested areas, and traditional hillside settlements.

The trail is generally gentle, although a few short uphill sections remain. Continue toward Siwai or Birethanti, where the road network begins.

Depending on trail and road conditions, the walking portion can take approximately 3–4 hours to Siwai or around 5–6 hours to Naya Pul at 1,070m.

Once you reach Naya Pul, the trekking portion officially comes to an end. From there, take a pre-arranged private jeep, tourist vehicle, or local bus toward Pokhara, which generally takes around 1.5–2 hours.

After reaching Pokhara at approximately 822m, check into your hotel and relax. You can spend the evening beside Phewa Lake, enjoy dinner, or simply recover after completing the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

After breakfast, begin your return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You may travel by road or choose an optional flight depending on your preference.

As you leave the Annapurna region behind, enjoy the final views of the hills, valleys, rivers, and surrounding landscapes. Along the route, take one last look at Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and reflect on the incredible journey through the Annapurna Sanctuary.

After approximately 7–8 hours, arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Your Annapurna Base Camp Trek officially concludes here.