From the moment I first saw the Himalayas, I knew my life would never be the same. It wasn’t just a landscape; it was a call, a silent invitation to explore the vast, towering peaks and ancient trails where the heart of Nepal beats.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek had been a dream for years; images of snow-capped mountains and vibrant rhododendron forests filled my thoughts, and now, with Nature Trail Treks guiding me, this dream was finally becoming a reality.
Leaving behind the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the towering mountains started to reveal themselves, whispering their secrets and promises of a journey that would forever change me. The unknown became an adventure that beckoned, and I was ready to answer.
I am sharing this memorable experience to help you plan your ABC trek better.
I woke up in Kathmandu with a feeling of anticipation. The morning air was thick with the buzz of city life, but I was focused on the trek ahead. After gathering my final supplies, I boarded a bus to Pokhara, my gateway to the mountains. The ride was long—seven hours to be exact—but it was filled with stunning scenery. The landscape changed dramatically from the chaotic urban sprawl of Kathmandu to rolling hills, terraced fields, and winding rivers below.
What stood out most was the peacefulness of Pokhara, a town nestled by Phewa Lake. As I walked along the lakeside, the first glimpse of the Annapurna mountain range caught my breath—snow-capped peaks shimmering in the distance. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement. The reality of the trek was beginning to set in.
That night, I enjoyed a light dinner at a lakeside café, savoring a warm bowl of dal bhat—a comforting meal of lentil soup with rice—before retiring early for rest. Tomorrow, the real adventure would begin.
The trek began early with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapool, the starting point of the journey. The excitement was palpable among the trekkers, and I couldn’t wait to set foot on the trail.
The first part of the trek was a gentle walk through rhododendron forests, where the air was fresh and filled with the scent of pine and wildflowers. I passed by friendly locals, mostly farmers tending to their fields, and the occasional goat herder leading their flock through the trails. The sound of birds singing was a constant companion as I went to Ghandruk, a picturesque village nestled at 1940 meters.
Along the way, I was captivated by views of Annapurna South and the iconic Machhapuchchhre (Fishtail Peak). The sight of these towering peaks was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Ghandruk’s stone houses, with their traditional architecture, felt like stepping back in time.
In the evening, the villagers invited us to join in a cultural celebration with traditional songs and dances that welcomed us warmly. It felt so special to be a part of their customs and to witness their joy and hospitality firsthand. For dinner, I had another comforting plate of dal bhat—simple, filling, and just what I needed after a long day of trekking.
After a restful night, I was ready to push on. The trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong was challenging as it involved a long descent to Kimrong Khola followed by a steep ascent. The weather was perfect—clear skies and a gentle breeze—but the steep climbs took their toll. The higher we climbed, the thinner the air became, making each step a little harder.
I passed through dense rhododendron forests, and the sounds of the forest—rustling leaves, birdsong, and the occasional distant thud of a falling tree—kept me company. After several hours, I arrived at Chhomrong, a beautiful village that sits at the base of Annapurna South. The views here were simply breathtaking, with Machhapuchchhre looming ever closer.
For dinner, I had a bowl of thukpa, a noodle soup, which was the perfect dish to warm me after a long day of trekking. As the sun set, I found myself staring at the mountains, overwhelmed by the sheer scale of what lay ahead.
Today was when the trek started to feel like an expedition. As we left Chhomrong, the trail became more rugged and remote. We passed through bamboo forests, and the terrain was rougher—suspension bridges swayed high over fast-moving rivers below. The climb was relentless, and with each hour, I felt the altitude working against me.
The weather turned chilly as we approached Dovan and then Bamboo, a tiny settlement nestled in the heart of the forest. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of isolation—this part of the trek was remote, and the vast, towering cliffs around us made it feel like we were surrounded by nature’s giants.
By the time I reached the Hotel at 2920 meters, I was tired, but the views were enough to keep me going. The mountains felt closer than ever, their icy peaks towering above me. That night, I ate a hearty meal of dal bhat again, which had become a staple of my diet, before turning in for a well-needed rest.
This was the day I had been waiting for—reaching Annapurna Base Camp. The trail from the hotel to MBC was difficult as the altitude started to affect me more. The air was thinner, and each step felt heavier than the last. But the scenery kept me going. We passed through alpine meadows, with the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna I and Machhapuchchhre rising higher and higher into the sky.
Arriving at Machhapuchchhre Base Camp (MBC) at 3700 meters was an unforgettable experience. The 360° view of the Annapurna range was nothing short of magical. The mountains surrounded us, their sharp peaks piercing the sky. From MBC, it was a short but steep hike to Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 meters.
When I finally reached ABC, standing in the middle of this natural amphitheater, I was in awe. The massive peaks—Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchchhre—rose around us like silent sentinels. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the mountains glowed with golden hues. The moment was surreal, and I couldn’t believe I was standing at the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
For dinner, I ate another simple but satisfying meal—dal bhat—before falling asleep to the sound of the wind howling through the valley.
Waking up early to watch the sunrise over Annapurna was one of the highlights of the trek. The first rays of light painted the peaks in shades of pink and gold, and I felt incredibly lucky to be in such a magnificent place. The descent from ABC was much easier than the ascent, but the long hours on the trail still left me feeling exhausted.
I retraced my steps back through MBC and Deurali, with the towering mountains still visible in the distance. The feeling of walking downhill was somewhat soothing, but the fatigue from the past few days was starting to catch up with me. By evening, I reached Bamboo, where I settled down to rest and enjoy a light meal of alu roti.
Today’s trek was a long one, but the reward at the end was worth every step. After passing through lush forests and terraced fields, we arrived at Jhinu Danda, a small village famous for its natural hot springs. The warm waters were the perfect way to soothe my tired muscles after days of trekking. The sound of the Modi Khola river rushing by added to the sense of relaxation.
I soaked in the hot springs for hours, letting the warmth melt away my exhaustion. It was a moment of pure bliss, and I couldn’t help but feel incredibly grateful for the experiences I had had so far. For dinner, I treated myself to a hearty portion of momo, the Tibetan-style dumplings filled with meat and vegetables.
The next day was a gentler trek through picturesque villages and terraced fields. The views of the Annapurna range were still spectacular, and I took every opportunity to stop and admire the scenery. We reached Pothana, a peaceful hilltop village where the views of the mountains were just as impressive as ever. That night, under a blanket of stars, I felt at peace, knowing that the journey was coming to an end.
The descent from Pothana to Phedi was easy, and before I knew it, I was back in Pokhara. The town’s calm lakeside atmosphere felt like a perfect end to the trek. I sat by Phewa Lake, enjoying a cup of tea and reflecting on the journey. The mountains still called to me, but I knew that this was a chapter I would never forget.
The drive back to Kathmandu was bittersweet. The trek had been a challenging but incredible experience. As I left the mountains behind, I realized that this journey had changed me in ways I couldn’t fully understand yet. The Annapurna Base Camp trek wasn’t just a physical journey—it was a spiritual one as well. I left a piece of my heart in the Himalayas, but I also carried their beauty and serenity with me forever.
Day 1: Journey Begins – Kathmandu to Pokhara (850m)
Day 2: Stepping into the Wild – Pokhara to Ghandruk (1940m)
Day 3: Rising Above – Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m)
Day 4: Into the Sanctuary – Chhomrong to Himalayan Hotel (2920m)
Day 5: Reaching the Heart – Himalayan Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC, 4130m)
Day 6: The Descent Begins – ABC to Bamboo (2340m)
Day 7: Soothing Waters – Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1755m)
Day 8: Through Villages & Fields – Jhinu Danda to Pothana (1700m)
Day 9: The Final Steps – Pothana to Phedi (1050m), Drive to Pokhara (820m)
For the Annapurna Base Camp trek, I decided to go with the Nature Trail Treks’ $980 package. It turned out to be an excellent choice for several reasons. The package was comprehensive, covering all the essentials like permits, accommodation, meals, and experienced guides. Not only did it provide great value, but it also made the trek so much easier and stress-free.
The package included:
Transportation: The cost of buses from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Phedi back to Pokhara was included. It was a hassle-free way to get around, and the rides were comfortable.
Accommodation: Throughout the trek, we stayed in local teahouses with basic but comfortable rooms. The accommodations were clean and simple, just what you need after a long day of trekking.
Meals: The package also covered the cost of meals at teahouses along the way, including delicious dal bhat and other local dishes. I was always well-fed, and the food was part of the experience—simple but satisfying.
Guides and Porters: The package included a professional guide who was well-versed not only in the trail but also the local culture and history. Our porter was also invaluable, carrying the bulk of our gear and allowing us to focus on the journey. Their presence made a big difference in my overall experience, providing valuable insight and local knowledge.
Permits: The ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) permits were included, which are essential for trekkers heading into the Annapurna region.
The cost of the trek ended up being approximately $980, and given what was included, I found it to be an excellent deal. I had everything I needed from transportation to meals and a knowledgeable guide. Plus, knowing that I was trekking with a reliable team made all the difference in terms of safety and enjoyment. It was clear that Nature Trail Treks was committed to delivering an unforgettable experience, and they certainly succeeded.
Throughout my journey, I felt a deep connection with the local people and their way of life. The Gurung and Magar communities living along the trail have a deep reverence for their land and their culture. Their hospitality was unparalleled, from the warm greetings to the invitations into their homes. I was able to experience their rich cultural heritage, from the traditional songs and dances in Ghandruk to the simple pleasures of a shared meal in the teahouses.
The views on the Annapurna Base Camp trek were nothing short of breathtaking. From the Annapurna I peak to the iconic Machhapuchchhre, every step offered a new, jaw-dropping panorama. The sense of being surrounded by towering, snow-capped giants was overwhelming—each day brought me closer to the heart of the Himalayas, and each moment was filled with wonder.
When it came to food, the trek had everything I needed to keep my energy up. The staple meal, dal bhat, was offered at almost every teahouse and was simple but nutritious—lentil soup with rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It’s filling, hearty, and perfect for long trekking days. In addition, I enjoyed other local specialties like thukpa (noodle soup), different types of bread made with wheat, barley, or mille,t and momo (dumplings), which kept me satisfied while soaking in the majestic views around me.
Carry Enough Cash: While the trek itself is affordable, there are limited ATMs along the trail, especially as you go higher. I ran out of cash once and had to cut back on meals, so it's important to carry enough for both permits and personal expenses.
Prepare for Unpredictable Weather: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, so make sure you have good rain gear and be ready for sudden changes. I experienced some rainy and chilly evenings, which made me wish I’d packed extra layers.
Acclimatization is Key: Take it slow and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. I experienced mild altitude sickness on my way to ABC, but it was manageable because I took the necessary rest breaks and drank plenty of water. It's important to listen to your body.
Hire a Guide or Porter: If you can, hire a guide or a porter. Not only do they make the trek easier by carrying your gear and navigating the route, but they also enrich the experience with their local knowledge and stories. My guide from Nature Trail Treks was exceptional, and having a porter made the trek much more enjoyable.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Hydration is important, especially at higher altitudes. I made sure to drink water regularly, and nutritious meals—mainly dal bhat and thukpa—helped maintain my energy throughout the day.
As I reflect on the incredible journey to Annapurna Base Camp, I can’t help but feel immense gratitude towards the team at Nature Trail Treks. They were not just guides; they were the steady hands that led me through the challenges and triumphs of this unforgettable adventure. From the very beginning, their professionalism and expertise were evident in every aspect of the trek.
Their careful planning ensured that we were well-prepared for the high altitudes and unpredictable weather, allowing us to focus on the joy of the trek rather than worrying about the logistics. The team made sure we had the best local accommodations and food, and they always put our safety first—whether it was adjusting the pace for proper acclimatization or ensuring we had enough water and snacks during breaks.
But beyond the practical aspects, it was their warm hospitality and deep knowledge of the region that made the experience truly special. They shared fascinating stories about the local culture, traditions, and the mountains themselves. Their insights helped me feel connected to the place and the people in a way that would have been impossible without their guidance.
In every challenging moment—whether it was struggling to climb a steep incline or feeling the effects of altitude—I was never alone. The team was there, offering encouragement, support, and reassurance. Their positive energy helped lift my spirits when the going got tough, and their experience kept me safe and comfortable throughout the entire trek.
Thanks to Nature Trail Treks, I didn’t just complete a trek; I had the privilege of truly experiencing the Himalayas—not just as a physical challenge but as a journey of the mind and soul. They made it all possible, turning a dream into reality. For that, I will forever be grateful.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek was everything I had hoped for—and so much more. The stunning views of the Annapurna Range, the welcoming local communities, the feeling of accomplishment as I stood at ABC, and the camaraderie shared with fellow trekkers and guides—all of it left an indelible mark on my heart.
Having Nature Trail Treks as my guide throughout this journey made the experience much smoother and more enjoyable. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to safety allowed me to focus on the adventure without worrying about logistics or potential challenges. I wouldn’t have had the same experience without their expertise and support.
I’ll carry the memories of the Himalayan sunrise, the hot springs at Jhinu Danda, the traditional dances in Ghandruk, and the serene moments by Phewa Lake long after I return to daily life. The trek wasn’t just about reaching Annapurna Base Camp; it was about the people I met, the culture I experienced, and the majestic landscape that left me humbled and in awe.
As I sit here reflecting on my experience, I realize that the Annapurna Base Camp trek is much more than a physical challenge—it’s a journey for the soul. Thank you, Nature Trail Treks, for making this dream a reality and for providing me with an adventure that will stay with me forever.
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