Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trip Style: Trekking and Tour
  • Transport: Private Vehicle / Tourist Bus
  • Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel + Tea House Lodge, and Camping
  • Group Size: 2
  • Max Elevation: 4190 m
  • Best Time: March to May, and Sep to December

Highlights

  • Stunning panoramic views of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhare, and Dhaulagiri.
  • Remote and serene environment at North Annapurna Base Camp (8091 meters).
  • Cultural insights through traditional villages like Narchayng and Chhotema.
  • Natural hot springs at Tatopani for relaxation.
  • Diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows and rocky terrains.
  • Challenging descent via Lete in Mustang with additional cultural experiences.
  • Supported by experienced guides and Sherpas for safety and well-being.

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is ideal, especially for adventurers who relish the experience of hiking in the wild and fairly remote parts of the ancient Annapurna region. The first ascent of this kind was to Mount Everest, which is 8,848 meters high. This all changed on June 3, 1950, when a French team led by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal obtained the honor of being the first to make the summit of Annapurna I (8091 m). The team discussed whether to attempt Dhaulagiri, 8167 meters high, or Annapurna I, which was comparatively lower at 8091 meters high. On evaluating the routes and ruling out Dholaigiri because of its dangerous terrain, they decided to use the Lilliput face of Annapurna. Through a direct and airless style, they reached the peak because, in the end, they faced snowstorms, floods, and a lot of risks on the way. This was the first mark of human history, as they climbed this mountain to reach the peak.

Annapurna I was mounted again in 1970 by a British Army team who repeated the process. However, the North Base Camp of Annapurna is climbed only by intrepid hiking enthusiasts, as its trail is quite dangerous. This remote base camp is perched on the northwest extreme of Annapurna I. Here, the visitors can get mesmerized by the incredibly natural scenery of the Himalayas – the view of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and other prominent peaks makes your heart race with excitement. The trip offers the option to practice self-care using spots that have hot springs and yoga; this will be mixed with Tibetan Buddhism. Thus, the trip will be a well-being adventure.

The trip starts in Pokhara and is followed by a drive that finally reaches Tatopani (1190 m). Then, we begin the Maurice Herzog Trail, which goes through the Dhaulagiri Himal Range. Starting from the first day of the trek, the trekkers arrive in Narchayng village, and the second day ends with a reach at Chhotema village. On day 10, there will be an Annapurna I North Base Camp trekker. Trekkers must cross the river and go through fields near the base camp on the trail there. The travel back, roughly three to four days, will be Letsow/Mustang this way. However, since there are no tea houses on this way to the top, or at least you need to carry with you additional business cards and catalogs for this purpose, it will be more problematic. Still, the endless opportunity for photography and video recording makes it attractive. For safety and comfort, the formal and polished training trekking guides and Sherpas will always be with the trekkers through this leaderless journey. Hikers require permits from ACAP, and the help of trekking agencies affiliated with TAAN ensures a soldierly outing, which goes smoothly.

Trekking Route to the Annapurna North Base Camp

The Annapurna base camp trek, which forms along the north, is a special and exciting challenge, diverse in its trails in the Annapurna region. The initial point is Pokhara, a beautiful lake city where travelers are first introduced to Himalayan scenery. From there, they take a scenic drive to Tatopani, known for its hot springs. In the lounge, the staff warmly welcomes the travelers for the journey ahead.

The journey starts with a hike to Naarchayng Village, passing by an ancient forest, terraced fields, and traditional dwellings, which give outsiders a concrete knowledge of the area's culture. The trek from Narchayng to Chhotema and further to NABC resembles the cheeses of style where one walks through the forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrains when one keeps moving. Participants on that path will see a majestic mountain (Annapurna I 8091 m) with other peaks, such as (Nilgiri and Machhapuchhare).

The most remarkable part of the trek is to arrive at the magnificent base camp of the Annapurna north at elevation 8). This enchanting place gifts amazing views and divine enlightenment. The descent takes around 3 to 4 days and gives a chance to almost the same scenery as Lete till the valley in Mustang. This will give you additional cultural experiences and a chance to visit hot springs and visit beautiful landscapes.

Despite the serious ground and lodges on the road, the trip is worth it to a considerable extent. Seeing this kind of quietness, wilderness travel, and unparalleled beauty of the Himalayan ranges is amazing. In this regard, Wilderness Excursion is very serious to ensure that trekkers, whether they are beginners or seasoned trekkers, are safe and in good condition through experienced guides and Sherpas who provide this demanding trek with memories and enriching experiences.

Such a voyage necessitates assistance (ACAP) and may be used for other governmental organ projects. During the trekking, trekkers usually overnight at night at tea houses along the Herman Herzog Trail, and the guides and porters set guys (including breakfast and lunch).

Weather Conditions while Trekking to the North Annapurna Base Camp

The temperatures recorded at the North Annapurna Base Camp Trek fluctuate seasonally, altering the general hiking experience. It is often windy, snowy, and variable at the base camp of Annapurna or such high altitudes. Spring (March to May) is mild, and the trail has rhododendrons in full bloom, which makes it one of the best seasons for trekking. Temperatures during the day are often between 10°C and 20°C, but they can drop to low levels at night, particularly in mountain areas. The rainy season (June-August) makes the trekking route risky due to slippery mud and landslides at times, but it also offers scenic views of the landscape turning lush and green. September through November are probably the best, with clearer skies and spectacular views of the Annapurna range.

Best Time to Go on the North Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The favorable time for the North Annapurna Base Camp Trek is in the spring (March up to May) and fall/autumn (September up to November) seasons. These periods are ideal, with temperatures remaining constant during the day and at night and clear skies presenting magnificent views of the Annapurna region. Winter is awesome with snow-covered mountain peaks, and summer is ideal with rhododendron flowers and other wildflowers on the Maurice Herzog Trail, making trekking very ideal.

It is also rewarding in the fall – the air is fresh, and the views of the snow-covered mountains, including Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhare, are not obstructed by the snow line. Many trekkers are on the trail at such times, and lodges provide food and lodging like in a guesthouse, including breakfasts and lunches. It is also the best time to trek since this is the major tourist season, so booking a tour in advance is advisable. All trekkers must have permits, which can be obtained through local trekking agencies; Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) charges for these. The availability of trekking guides and porters helps to reduce the risks associated with the activity and increase the overall quality of the experience. This can protect trekkers from the monsoon and winter seasons, which are hazardous with chances of landslides and extreme cold, respectively, which can spoil the fun of trekking.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01Arrival in Nepal, Kathmandu (1350 m)
  • Day 02Drive to Pokhara (860 m) 6-7 Hours
  • Day 03Drive to Narchyang (1400 m) 5 Hours
  • Day 04Drive to Hum Khola, 2 Hours, and Trek to Sandhikharka (3160 m) 5-6 Hours
  • Day 05Sandhikharka to Busket Mela (3650 m) 4-5 Hours
  • Day 06Busket Mela to North Annapurna Base Camp (4190 m)
  • Day 07North Annapurna Base Camp to Sandhikharka (3160 m)
  • Day 08Trek to Hum Khola, and drive to Tatopani (1190 m) 5-6 Hours
  • Day 09Drive to Pokhara (860 m)
  • Day 10Drive to Kathmandu (1350 m)
  • Day 11Final Departure to your sweet home
  • Day 01 Arrival in Nepal, Kathmandu (1350 m)

    After your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by the team of Nepal Adventure Team and you will be escorted to your hotel. In the evening, you will enjoy a welcome dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant, featuring local cuisine and cultural folk dances. After the dinner session you will receive a detailed briefing about the journey ahead.

    • Meals: Welcome Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Kathmandu
    • Altitude: 1350 m
  • Day 02 Drive to Pokhara (860 m) 6-7 Hours

    You will embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the vibrant city known for its stunning landscapes, views and also as the gateway to Himalayas. The journey offers attractive landscapes, including terraced fields, rivers and distant mountain vistas, setting the tone for the trekking adventure ahead. 

    • Meals: Breakfast
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Pokhara
    • Altitude: 860 m
  • Day 03 Drive to Narchyang (1400 m) 5 Hours

    You will take a 5 hour drive from Pokhara to Narchayng Village. You will drive through Parbat, Kushma which is the longest suspension bridge of Nepal, leading to beni further where you will travel alongside the rivers. As you approach Narchayng, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with lush green forests and terraced fields providing a scenic backdrop to the traditional villages where your trekking adventure will begin. After reaching the Narchayng Village you spend rest of the day delving in several cultural programs organised by the locals there and enjoy your stay in the Homestays.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Home Stay
    • Place: Narchyang
    • Altitude: 1400 m
  • Day 04 Drive to Hum Khola, 2 Hours, and Trek to Sandhikharka (3160 m) 5-6 Hours

    You will drive from Narchayng to Humkhola in about two hours. After you reach there you will have your lunch and then begin a 5-6 hour trek to Sandhikharka (3160 meters), traversing through lush green forests and ascending through scenic landscapes. Upon reaching Sandhikharka , you will set up camps and live in tents for the night. You will enjoy meals prepared by our dedicated kitchen teams during the camping experience. 

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Tent Camp
    • Place: Shardi Kharka
    • Altitude: 3160 m
  • Day 05 Sandhikharka to Busket Mela (3650 m) 4-5 Hours

    You will trek from Sandhikharka to Bhusket Mela (3650 Meters), for about 4-5 hours through captivating alpine landscapes. Upon arrival, you will set up your tents again and enjoy hearty meals prepared by our dedicated kitchen teams  during your camping experience. And you will spend the rest of the night in this tranquil mountain atmosphere.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Tent Camp
    • Place: Busket Mela
    • Altitude: 3650 m
  • Day 06 Busket Mela to North Annapurna Base Camp (4190 m)

    You will take on a 3-4 hour hike from Bhusket Mela to The Annapurna North Base Camp. Upon arriving there you will get to enjoy the breathtaking atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.  Later you'll set up camp and spend the night in tents and enjoy the hearty meals. 

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Tent Camp
    • Place: North Annapurna Base Camp
    • Altitude: 4190 m
  • Day 07 North Annapurna Base Camp to Sandhikharka (3160 m)

    You will hike down from the Annapurna North Bae Camp to Sandikharka, this decent will take approximately 5-6 hours. The Hike down will take you through the beautiful landscapes you ascended in, providing different perspectives and new experiences along the way.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Tent Camp
    • Place: Sandhikharka
    • Altitude: 3650 m
  • Day 08 Trek to Hum Khola, and drive to Tatopani (1190 m) 5-6 Hours

    You will start the day with a 3 hour hike from Sandikharka to Humkhola. This will take you through  scenic landscapes and downhill trails. After reacing Humkhola, you will continue your journey with a 2 hour road trip to Tatopani. Enjoy the drive as you pass through the countryside and possibly catch glimpses of local life along the way.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Taatopani (Hot Spring)
    • Altitude: 1190 m
  • Day 09 Drive to Pokhara (860 m)

    You'll drive from Tatopani to Pokhara. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, offering scenic views of the countryside and the Annapurna range in the distance. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you can relax and unwind, reflecting on your adventure through the Annapurna region.

    • Meals: Lunch
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Pokhara
    • Altitude: 860 m
  • Day 10 Drive to Kathmandu (1350 m)

    You'll will return back to Kathmandu from Pokhara by bus, enjoying a scenic journey that takes about 6-7 hours. This route offers beautiful views of rural Nepal, passing through picturesque villages and alongside rivers. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll have the evening free to enjoy a farewell dinner of your choosing, reflecting on the memories and experiences from your Annapurna North Base Camp Trek.

    • Meals: Breakfast, and Farewell Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Kathmandu
    • Altitude: 1350 m
  • Day 11 Final Departure to your sweet home

    It's time to bid you farewell as you depart from Kathmandu for your journey back to your country. We hope you carry with you cherished memories of your adventure in the Annapurna region and the warmth of Nepali hospitality. Safe travels and until we meet again!

    • Meals: Breakfast

What's Included

Included

  • All airport transfers by private car (pickup, and drop)
  • Welcome, and farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant, and cultural dance
  • 2 Nights Hotel Accommodations in Kathmandu and 2 Nights at Pokhara
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and Kathmandu return by deluxe tourist bus
  • Pokhara to Narchyang and drive to Hum Khola by Local Jeep
  • Hum Khola to Tatopani, and Pokhara by Local Jeep
  • All meals like Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea Coffee
  • All camping staff (Cook, Kitchen Helper, Sherpa, Porter) their salary, food, equipment, transportation, and insurance
  • An Experienced trekking leader (Guide) and assistant guide for group
  • One night Homestay and tea house lodge and 4 nights tent camp
  • All required permits (ACAP, and TIMS Card)
  • Assist with travel insurance to rescue 
  • All important first aid medical kit
  • All Necessary equipment (Sleeping bag, down Jacket, Sleeping mattress, gloves, etc)
  • All Nepal government VAT, and Local Taxes

Excluded

  • International, and domestic flight
  • Nepal Visa, and its processing 
  • All drinks, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic 
  • Travel Insurance 
  • Tips to staff 

PRICES & DATES

Trip DatesStatusPriceNote  
25 Dec, 2024 - 04 Jan, 2025GuaranteedUS$ 895
29 Dec, 2024 - 08 Jan, 2025GuaranteedUS$ 895

Useful Information

Tourist Visa Process for Nepal

Specializing in tourists who are interested in exploring Nepal’s culture, nature, and adventure activities. The tourist visas are usually valid for 15 to 90 days and let tourists see major destinations such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, or the Himalayan trekking routes. For the leisurely tour, trekking tour, or pilgrimage tour in Nepal a tourist visa offers the visitor the flexibility to go wherever he wants.

However Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal and getting a Nepal Visa is the easiest as you can get it by visiting an Embassy/Consulate of Nepal in your own country or upon arrival at Kathmandu‘s International Airport. You must bring two passport-size photos, a valid passport, and cash of USD equivalent of visa fees.

For more information, don't hesitate to contact the Department of Immigration.

Accommodation During the Trek

Food

Breakfast: Cereal, Porridge, rice pudding, egg dish with bread and toast, bread with jam and honey, Pancakes with jam and honey, tea or coffee.

Lunch Items: Dal Bhat (mostly recommended), noodles soup, fried noodles, momo, spaghetti chapati, Spring roll, macron, egg curry with plain rice, Thukpa, Thenthuk, french fry, fried potato, boiled potato, and much more.

Dinner: These are mostly the same as lunch items but may vary in some hotels.

Homestays/ Camping

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek has several bed options along the trekking trail, including the tea house trek and camping or homestay options. The usual form of lodging is tea houses, which are prevalent particularly in the lower to mid-elevation areas of the trek. These are simple accommodation facilities that provide a bed, food (usually breakfast and lunch), and sometimes hot water for showers. The tea houses are family-owned and offer an opportunity to visit and mingle with the locals to learn more about their culture and lifestyles.

With every step from Bhusket Mela towards the Annapurna North Base Camp, the number of tea houses decreases, especially when getting closer to the actual Base Camp. One has to camp in these areas since there are no accommodation facilities. Mountaineering companies also organize all the required camping facilities, such as a tent, sleeping bags, and food the accompanying team prepares. High-altitude camping gives the trekkers a real feeling of being in a remote Himalayan region in a peaceful setting under the open sky amidst twinkling stars far away from light pollution.

During the camping sessions, you will live in tents and enjoy hearty meals prepared by our dedicated kitchen teams. Not to forget a team of kitchen cooks including kitchen helpers will travel along throughout the trek to ensure your travel is fulfilled with healthy cooked meals. 

Moreover, homestay facilities may be available in some villages, such as Hum Khola, Shadikharka, and Narchang. This enables trekkers to stay with some local families to learn about the better part of the villagers and their hospitable nature each day. Homestays also help boost the local economy through their cultural interaction.

From tea houses to camping and homestays, the accommodation facilities on the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek offer a variety of options, from providing comfort to giving trekkers a chance to experience local life after a day of exhausting treks through the beautiful trails of the Annapurna region.

Altitude Sickness and Remedies During Annapurna North Base Camp Trek:

  • Early Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
  • Increased breathing.
  • Headache and Restless sleep.
  • Increased urination.
  • Dehydration.
  • Periodic breathing at night as a result of altitude.
  • Later symptoms
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Respiratory failure.
  • Extreme fatigue.
  • Coma.
  • Cerebral edema.

You can take other precautions to reduce the risk of altitude sickness while trekking to the Annapurna North Base Camp.

  • Take time to ascend and have rest breaks some days every 600 or 700 meters during the climb and one day at a higher altitude before descending at night at lower elevation levels.
  • Be sure to take note of this since the level of oxygen also decreases with altitude and there is little to no vegetation during the trek as well. Non-alcoholic substances are as harmful as alcohol or other tobacco products and enhance dehydration. The good water should be taken warm now and then to offset some of the effects of high altitude.
  • On the psychological side, ensure that you are well-equipped for the expedition and keep positive energy to make the trip interesting and minimize stress.
  • There is advice not to take sleeping pills and other drugs to help one with insomnia, for instance, sleeping pills can decrease the amount of blood oxygen and make the condition of mountain sickness worse.

These symptoms escalate and do not continue growing in altitude; instead, one must climb down to lower altitudes.

Packing List for Annapurna North Base Camp Trek:

  • Backpack: A backpack large enough to be able to throw in whatever you might need for the day.
  • Sleeping bag: It is, however, important to note that it is necessary to pay extra attention to a sleeping bag to avoid cold nights in the mountains.
  • Sleeping pad: An inflatable mattress: offers insulation and prevents the body from waking with aches in the hip or shoulder.
  • Clothing: It is often advised the use different attire such as base layers, middle layers, and outer clothing depending on weather conditions. Make sure that you avoid traveling with socks because you hate to change your socks.
  • Rain gear: On rainy days, you should wear a waterproof coat and pants…If rain falls, the coat and pants should have to be waterproof.
  • Headlamp: A headlamp is an essential item to get from trailing in dark narrow trails that are designed for late morning or evening driving.
  • The trekking poles even give you something to step on instead of relying almost entirely on your knees for balance on an uneven path.
  • Hiking boots: Choose boots that fit nicely and are already half-worn for comfortable support if you are through the hike.
  • Water bottle: Have a potable water container with you to enable you to take the necessary water to refresh the body at times of dryness and heat throughout the hike so that you can move with ease through all terrains.
  • Snacks: It is necessary to carry a lot of high-energy food like trail mix and energy bars to keep the hiker energized throughout the hike.
  • First aid kit: It is important to carry a small first aid box from which you get the band-aids, pain reliever, and blister pads.
  • Sun protection: Several measures will be taken to prevent the UV rays from attacking the body including the use of sunscreen, shades, and a wide-rimmed headgear.
  • Personal hygiene items: It will be very useful if brush, paste, hand sanitizer, etc. are mentioned in the kit as the information is essential.
  • Passport: It should be remembered that your passport is which is your tool for showing up in person to the authorities for permission to see your physical presence in Nepal.
  • Travel documents: Get your airfare booking slips, travel insurance policy photocopy, and identification documents ready.
  • Cash: Change should be always carried to have small notes for every day’s expenses while traveling. For instance, coffee makes snacks survive for longer compared to when coffee is not present.

Client Reviews

  • noimage
    Rating Review by: Samantha Lee, Australia

    Loved the kitchen team.

    The trek itself was tough but rewarding, with diverse landscapes and friendly locals along the way. Camping at the base camp was a highlight, with delicious meals prepared by the team and unforgettable views of the snow-capped mountains. The luxury of having freshly cooked comfort foods during the entire trip was truely heart warming! Awesome team! This trip was truly an adventure of a lifetime.

  • noimage
    Rating Review by: Raj Adhikari, Nepal

    An adventure of a lifetime!

    "The Annapurna North Base Camp trek was an adventure of a lifetime! Starting from the bustling streets of Kathmandu, the journey to Pokhara was filled with anticipation. Trekking through the picturesque villages and lush forests was truly refreshing. The highlight was reaching the base camp, where the majestic peaks of Annapurna surrounded us. Camping under the stars with delicious meals provided by the team made the experience even more memorable. Highly recommend this trek with Wilderness Excursion!"