How to access Annapurna base camp from Kathmandu

How to access Annapurna base camp from Kathmandu: The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic trekking encounters, crowned with stunning views of the Annapurna range and vivid cultural interactions. In order to reach Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) effectively, meticulous planning is advised, including figuring out the most efficient way to get to the trailhead.

How To Reach/Travel to Pokhara—The Center For The ABC Trek

The ABC trek starts from Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region. Reaching Pokhara is relatively easy as it is well connected to Kathmandu and many other parts of Nepal. Here are a few approaches to how you can reach Pokhara:

By Air: The most efficient way of reaching Pokhara is through a domestic flight from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) through Kathmandu to Pokhara Airport. The duration of the flight is roughly 25 minutes.

By Road: An 8-6-hour drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara on the Prithvi Highway is also quite scenic.

By Bus: Buses that run daily for tourists are quite popular and connect the tourist spots of Kathmandu and Pokhara at great value.

Routes Leading to Annapurna Trek : How to access Annapurna base camp from Kathmandu

The option of starting the trek is entirely up to you based on the duration and the itinerary. The two most used entry points for the ABC Base Camp Trek are Nayapul and Phedi.

How to access Annapurna base camp from Kathmandu: Trekking through Nayapul

Nayapul is approximately a 1.5- to 2-hour journey from Pokhara by vehicle.

The Poon Hill is accessible via Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, and Ghorepani. Trekking to Poon Hill leads to a breathtaking viewpoint. The trek is well known among those who wish to visit Gurung and Magar villages before heading to Annapurna Base Camp.

Via Phedi Trekking Phedi

From Pokhara: 45-minute drive from Pokhara. This route takes trekkers over Dhampus and Landruk, allowing for a more vertical entry into the Annapurna Sanctuary. This route is well-suited for trekkers who prefer shorter but more strenuous hiking options.

Trekking Path Leading to Annapurna Base Camp

Depending on one’s itinerary, the entire trek can take anywhere between 7 and 12 days. Below is an outline for the ABC Trek.
Pokhara to Nayapul/Phedi is a driving route.
Depending on where you start, the trek can begin towards Ghandruk or Dhampus.
From here, you will trek towards Chhomrong, which is a beautiful Gurung village.
After this, you will trek towards Bamboo or Dovan, which marks the entrance to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
From these points, the trek path continues to Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC).
After MBC, you will head towards Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). This is the final stop, where the breathtaking mountain offers magnificent views.
From here, you will descend towards Sinuwa, Jhinu Danda (Hot Springs), and Nayapul/Phedi.
From these points, you will drive back towards Pokhara.

The Most Optimal Period to Reach Annapurna Base Camp

To achieve the best outcome during the trek, it is recommended to do this trek in the spring (March-May) or during the fall (September-November). These months are the most favorable due to the stunning views offered along with moderate temperatures and clear skies.

Means of Transportation and Permits

When trekking in the Annapurna region, you must have these two primary permits:

Permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)
Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card

These permits may be acquired in either Kathmandu or Pokhara before the commencement of the trek.