Annapurna Base Camp Trek | 10 Days, Cost & Itinerary 2027

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you from villages and farmland into rhododendron forests and the Modi Khola Valley before reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m.

I started working in the Himalayas as a porter in 1996 and received my government trekking guide license in 2002. Since then, I have guided hundreds of trekkers on routes throughout Nepal, including the Annapurna Base Camp route.

Do not judge this trek only by its highest altitude. The total elevation gain and loss makes some days demanding, especially around Chhomrong, where the trail has long sections of stone steps.

From Jhinu Danda to Lower Sinuwa, you may meet donkeys carrying supplies between villages. They do not go farther up the trail. Give them space, move to the inside of the path, and wait until they have passed.

There are two main suspension bridges on the route, and because we return by the same trail, we cross both twice. The Jhinu Danda bridge is about 287 m long. Take your time when crossing and do not rush if other people are on the bridge.

You may also encounter stinging nettles on the lower trail. During the monsoon, leeches are common in the wet forest sections.

From Deurali onward, some sections require extra care because of avalanche risk. Your guide will tell you where to walk and where not to stop. Do not stop in an exposed area for photographs. Before taking a photo, check behind you and make sure you are standing on stable ground.

Most days take around 5 to 7 hours. I prefer to keep a steady pace rather than push hard early in the day and arrive tired at the next lodge.

There is no technical climbing on the standard Annapurna Base Camp route. You do not need ropes, crampons, or mountaineering experience, but you should be prepared for repeated climbs and descents and colder conditions at higher elevations.