Annapurna Base Camp Trek- 9 Days

Annapurna Region
9 Days/8 Nights
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Introduction

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a unique geographical phenomenon. Unlike the long, linear valleys of the Everest region, the Annapurna Base Camp route leads you into a massive, high-altitude glacial basin. This basin is a natural amphitheater, encircled by a ring of ten peaks over 6,000 meters, including the towering Annapurna I (8,091 m)—the 10th highest mountain on Earth.

Why Choose the 9-Day Itinerary?

In the world of trekking, time is often a luxury. Our Annapurna Base Camp 9 Days Trek is designed for the modern adventurer. We have optimized the logistics by utilizing domestic flights and private jeep transfers, cutting out the long, dusty bus rides that traditionally plagued this route. This allows you to spend your maximum energy where it matters: on the trail, surrounded by rhododendron forests and snow-capped giants.

The Art Nepal Treks Experience

As a premier tourism provider, Art Nepal Treks focuses on “Cultural Luxury.” We believe that even in the rugged mountains, service should be impeccable. This package bridges the gap between a rugged mountain expedition and a curated cultural tour.

  • Trip Duration

    9 Days/8 Nights

  • Maximum Altitude

    4,130 m (Annapurna Base Camp)

  • Trip Difficulty

    Moderate

  • Activities

    Trekking, Cultural sightseeing (Kathmandu heritage sites, Gurung villages), Hot spring relaxation, Nature photography

  • Best Season

    March–May (spring), September–November (autumn)

  • Trip Start & End

    Kathmandu-Kathmandu

  • Meals

    BLD

  • Accomodation

    Teahouses along trek (twin-sharing, basic facilities), hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Highlights

  •  Sunrise at the Roof of the World

There is no visual experience on Earth quite like the sunrise at ABC. As the first rays of light hit the pale limestone face of Annapurna I, the mountain appears to glow from within, turning from a ghostly blue to a molten, fiery orange.

  • The Majesty of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)

While Annapurna I is the highest, Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) is arguably the most beautiful. Its distinct double-peak resembles a fish’s tail. Because it is considered sacred to the god Shiva, it remains one of the few mountains in Nepal that has never been summited by human feet.

  • The Vertical Garden: Rhododendron and Bamboo

The trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to one of the world’s largest rhododendron forests. In the spring (March–April), these hillsides explode in shades of crimson and pink, contrasting sharply against the white backdrop of the mountains.

  • Natural Healing: Jhinu Danda Hot Springs

After days of trekking, your body will crave recovery. On the descent, we stop at the natural thermal springs of Jhinu Danda. Soaking in warm, mineral-rich water while listening to the glacial Modi Khola river rush by just feet away is the ultimate reward.

Itinerary

Day 01

Your journey begins at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). A representative from Art Nepal Treks will greet you with a traditional silk scarf (Khada) and transport you to the Hotel Roadhouse in Thamel.

  • The Vibe: Thamel is the heart of Nepal’s trekking culture. Spend your evening exploring narrow alleys filled with colorful prayer flags, handmade crafts, and high-end trekking boutiques.
  • The Briefing: We conduct a comprehensive safety and gear briefing to ensure you are fully prepared for the days ahead.
Trip Duration:
1 Day
Altitude:
1,400 m
Meal:
Dinner
Accomodation :
Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02

Nepal’s mountains are inseparable from its spirituality. We spend the day visiting three UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

  • Swayambhunath (The Monkey Temple): An ancient religious complex atop a hill, offering a 360-degree view of the Kathmandu Valley.
  • Pashupatinath: The most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, where you will witness the cycle of life and death along the Bagmati River.
  • Boudhanath Stupa: The center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, where hundreds of pilgrims perform “Kora” (circumambulation) around the massive white dome.
Trip Duration:
Full day city tour in Kathmandu
Altitude:
1,400 m
Meal:
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation :
Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 03

We take a 25-minute scenic flight to Pokhara. Grab a seat on the right side of the plane for views of the Langtang and Manaslu ranges. From Pokhara, a 3-hour jeep drive takes us to the bridge at Jhinu.

  • The Hike: The trek starts with a heart-pumping ascent up thousands of stone stairs. Chhomrong is the gateway village, perched on a steep hillside with staggering views of Annapurna South.
Trip Duration:
3–4 hours trekking
Altitude:
2,170 m
Meal:
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation :
Teahouse in Chhomrong

Day 04

The trail drops down to the Chhomrong Khola river and then climbs steeply back up to Sinuwa. We enter a dense “cloud forest” filled with moss-covered trees and bamboo groves.

  • Ecology: This is a prime spot for bird watching and catching a glimpse of the Hanuman Langur monkeys.
Trip Duration:
~4–5 hours
Altitude:
2,310 m
Meal:
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation :
Teahouse in Bamboo

Day 05

As we climb higher, the humidity of the jungle fades. We pass through “Himalaya Hotel” and the Hinku Cave. The valley narrows, and the Modi Khola river becomes a thunderous companion at your side. We reach Deurali, where the air starts to feel noticeably thinner.

Trip Duration:
~5–6 hours
Altitude:
3,230 m
Meal:
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation :
Teahouse in Deurali

Day 06

Today is the climax. We trek past Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). The “Sanctuary” opens up—a wide, flat glacial valley surrounded by a fortress of mountains. Walking the final two hours to ABC is a surreal experience as you realize you are now standing inside the mountain range.

Trip Duration:
~5–6 hours
Altitude:
4,130 m
Meal:
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation :
Teahouse near Annapurna Base Camp

Day 07

After an unforgettable sunrise, we begin our descent. Descending is easier on the lungs but requires focus on the knees. We retrace our steps, watching the alpine tundra melt back into the green bamboo forests.

Trip Duration:
~5–6 hours descent
Altitude:
4,130 m (ABC), descending to ~2,310 m
Meal:
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation :
Teahouse in Bamboo

Day 08

We trek back to Chhomrong for a final mountain lunch before descending to Jhinu Danda. The afternoon is dedicated to the Hot Springs. This is a celebratory evening for the group, marking the successful completion of the high-altitude portion of the trek.

Trip Duration:
Trek Bamboo to Jhinu (~3–4 hours) + hot springs relaxation
Altitude:
1,780 m
Meal:
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation :
Teahouse in Jhinu Danda

Day 09

A short morning walk brings us to our private vehicle. We return to Pokhara for a farewell lunch by the lake before catching our afternoon flight back to the capital.

Trip Duration:
Trek/drive to Pokhara, flight back to Kathmandu (~half day)
Altitude:
1,400 m
Meal:
Breakfast
Accomodation :
None

What's Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu.

  • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin-sharing) with breakfast.

  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu → Pokhara → Kathmandu.

  • Private jeep/vehicle transfers (Pokhara to Jhinu and back).

  • All teahouse accommodations during the trek (twin-sharing).

  • All meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

  • Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide.

  • Porter services (one porter for two trekkers, carrying up to 12–15 kg).

  • Trekking permits: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS.

  • Safety equipment: group first-aid kit, pulse oximeter for monitoring.

  • Farewell lunch in Pokhara.

  • Government taxes and service charges.

  • Cultural activities included in Kathmandu city tour (Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath)

What's Excluded

  • International airfare to/from Nepal.

  • Nepalese visa fees.

  • Travel insurance (mandatory; must cover high-altitude trekking).

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except welcome/farewell meals).

  • Personal expenses: snacks, drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging.

  • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, down jacket, etc.—available for rent).

  • Tips for guides and porters (customary).

  • Extra costs due to flight delays or cancellations.

Essential Info

Accommodation and Food: Nourishing the Body and Soul

Teahouse Culture

The Short Annapurna Trek Nepal is famous for its “teahouse” system. These are small, family-run lodges. While the rooms are simple (usually two twin beds), the dining halls are heated by central stoves and serve as the social hub for trekkers from around the world.

The Power of Dal Bhat

The unofficial motto of Nepal is “Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour.” This meal of steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and spicy pickles is nutritionally perfect for trekking. At Art Nepal Treks, we ensure our partner teahouses maintain high hygiene standards, offering a mix of local and international cuisines including pasta, pancakes, and ginger-lemon-honey tea.

 

Trek Difficulty and Fitness: Preparing for the Climb

The ABC Trek is classified as Moderate.

  • Physicality: You will walk between 10 km to 15 km per day. The main challenge is the “verticality”—Nepal’s trails are rarely flat.
  • Preparation: We recommend at least 8 weeks of preparation. Focus on cardiovascular endurance (running, swimming) and lower body strength (squats, lunges). If possible, hike on weekends with a 5kg backpack to simulate trail conditions.

 

Best Time to Trek: Seasons of the Annapurna

  • Spring (March–May): The best for greenery and flowers. Temperatures are warm at lower altitudes.
  • Autumn (Sept–Nov): The “Gold Standard.” Post-monsoon air is incredibly clear, making it the best time for high-definition mountain photography.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold and snowy, but the skies are deep blue and the trails are empty.
  • Monsoon (June–Aug): Not recommended for ABC due to clouds and leeches, though the flora is at its most vibrant.

 

Permits and Regulations

Every trekker in the Annapurna region must have:

  1. ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): Funds biodiversity conservation.
  2. TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System): A safety database for all hikers.

Art Nepal Treks handles all permit paperwork so you can focus entirely on your journey.

 

Cultural Experience: The Heart of the Gurung People

The Annapurna region is the heartland of the Gurung ethnic group. Known for their bravery as Gurkha soldiers, they are equally famous for their hospitality. You will see traditional stone houses, prayer wheels, and “Mani walls” (stone tablets inscribed with Buddhist mantras). Respecting local customs—such as walking clockwise around shrines—is a vital part of the experience.

 

Safety and Altitude Information: Our Top Priority

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) are risks above 3,000 m.

  • Acclimatization: Our 9-day itinerary is scientifically paced to allow your body to adjust.
  • Pulse Oximeters: Our guides carry oximeters to monitor your oxygen saturation levels daily.
  • Hydration: We enforce a “4-liter-per-day” water rule to help blood circulation at altitude.

 

Transportation: Seamless Logistics

We eliminate the stress of Nepali mountain roads by providing:

  • Domestic Airfare: KTM-PKR-KTM is included.
  • Private Jeeps: We use 4WD Scorpio or Land Cruiser vehicles for all ground transfers, ensuring comfort and safety on the rugged sections of the road.

 

Why Choose Art Nepal Treks?

Art Nepal Treks is not just a company; we are a family of mountain professionals.

  • Expert Guides: Our guides have a minimum of 10 years of experience and are certified in high-altitude first aid.
  • Ethical Tourism: We ensure our porters are treated with dignity, provided with proper gear, and paid above the industry standard.
  • Customization: We understand that every trekker is different. We adapt our pace to suit your needs.

 

Conclusion: The Sanctuary is Calling

The Annapurna Base Camp 9 Days Trek is a journey of a lifetime. It is a chance to step away from the noise of the modern world and enter a realm of silence, stone, and ice. With Art Nepal Treks, you are not just a tourist; you are an honored guest in our mountains.

Are you ready to witness the grandeur of the Annapurna Sanctuary?

[Contact Art Nepal Treks today to secure your spot for the upcoming season. Your Himalayan adventure starts here!]

Equipment List

  •  Clothing: 4-season down jacket, waterproof hardshell, moisture-wicking base layers (merino wool is best).
  • Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots (must be broken in!) and a pair of camp shoes/sandals.

30L-40L Daypack, 100% UV protection sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.

Power bank, spare camera batteries (cold drains batteries fast!), and a universal adapter.

FAQ

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC): 4,130 m – the heart of the Sanctuary, surrounded by ten peaks above 6,000 m. Machhapuchhre Viewpoints: Offers unmatched views of the sacred “Fishtail” peak.
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, post-monsoon views – the best season. Spring (Mar–May): Blooming rhododendrons and green valleys. Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold and snowy, fewer trekkers. Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Not recommended due to slippery trails and cloud cover.
Guides monitor oxygen saturation with pulse oximeters daily. Steady pacing and hydration are enforced (4 liters/day). Experienced guides trained in high-altitude first aid lead the trek.
Visit Gurung villages with traditional stone houses and prayer wheels. Observe local customs, Mani walls, and Tibetan-Buddhist shrines. Explore Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Contact Art Nepal Treks via website, email, or phone. Provide dates, group size, and any special requests. Payment and pre-departure briefing ensure a smooth, safe trek.
Trip Price

On Request

Talk To Trip Expert

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Anjan Dhital

Trip Expert
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