The 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding Himalayan journeys, combining the classic Annapurna Sanctuary experience with a streamlined itinerary that begins trekking directly from Chhomrong. Designed for trekkers who want to reach Annapurna Base Camp within a comfortable 10-day schedule, the journey combines spectacular mountain scenery, rhododendron and bamboo forests, traditional Gurung settlements, high-altitude landscapes, and time to experience the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.

The journey begins with an overland drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal’s famous gateway to the Annapurna region. Surrounded by green hills and distant Himalayan peaks, Pokhara provides a relaxing introduction to the journey before you continue toward the mountains. The following morning, you travel by shared jeep or local transportation from Pokhara to Chhomrong, avoiding the longer approach through Phedi and Tolkha and allowing more time to explore the upper Annapurna Sanctuary.

From Chhomrong at approximately 2,170 meters, the trekking route enters the Modi Khola Valley. The trail descends through stone stairways before crossing the Chhomrong Khola and climbing through dense forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and oak. Passing settlements such as Bamboo and Dobhan, the trail continues toward Himalaya at approximately 2,920 meters. Daytime temperatures in these lower and middle elevations generally range between 10°C and 20°C during the main trekking seasons, with cooler evenings as altitude increases.

Beyond Himalaya, the landscape begins to change significantly. The route passes Hinku Cave and Deurali before entering increasingly open alpine terrain beneath towering Himalayan cliffs. The climb eventually leads to Machhapuchhre Base Camp at approximately 3,700 meters, where trekkers enter the magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and glacial landscapes, temperatures here generally remain between 5°C and 10°C during the day, while nights can fall below freezing.

The following day, the trail climbs gradually from Machhapuchhre Base Camp toward the main highlight of the journey, Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). The route opens into a spectacular natural amphitheater surrounded by some of the highest and most beautiful mountains in the Annapurna Himalaya. From base camp, trekkers can enjoy outstanding views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding snow-covered peaks.

At Annapurna Base Camp, daytime temperatures during spring and autumn generally range between 2°C and 8°C, while nighttime and early-morning temperatures can fall between approximately -5°C and -10°C, depending on weather conditions. Spending the night at base camp provides an opportunity to experience both the evening atmosphere and the spectacular early-morning light over the Annapurna massif.

After reaching the highest point of the trek, the route begins a gradual descent from Annapurna Base Camp through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya, and eventually Dobhan. Descending to lower elevations provides noticeable relief from the colder temperatures and thinner air of the sanctuary.

The following day continues through bamboo and rhododendron forests back toward Chhomrong, where panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre return as the trail emerges from the forest. From Chhomrong, a shared jeep or local vehicle transfers you directly back to Pokhara, completing the trekking section of the journey.

Unlike shorter itineraries that immediately return to Kathmandu after trekking, this program includes a full day in Pokhara. The additional day provides time to explore the city and recover after the trek. Pokhara is known for Phewa Lake, mountain viewpoints, temples, waterfalls, caves, museums, and its relaxed lakeside atmosphere.

The journey concludes with an overland drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, completing a 10-day adventure that balances high-altitude trekking with efficient transportation and time to enjoy one of Nepal’s most attractive cities.

This 10-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek is ideal for trekkers seeking the classic Annapurna Sanctuary experience without the longer lower-elevation approach. With direct road access to Chhomrong, overnight stays at both Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, spectacular Himalayan scenery, teahouse accommodation, experienced trekking support, and a dedicated sightseeing day in Pokhara, the itinerary provides a rewarding and well-balanced introduction to one of Nepal’s most famous trekking regions.

Trip Notes

Trek Route

• Begins with an overland journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara

• Travels by shared jeep or local transportation from Pokhara to Chhomrong

• Follows the standard upper Annapurna Base Camp trekking route through Chhomrong, Himalaya, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and Annapurna Base Camp

• Includes an overnight stay at Annapurna Base Camp

• Descends through Dobhan before returning to Chhomrong

• Returns directly from Chhomrong to Pokhara by shared jeep or local transportation

• Includes a full sightseeing day in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu

Best Season to Travel

• Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests, longer daylight hours, and generally clear mountain views

• Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, dry trekking conditions, excellent Himalayan visibility, and comfortable daytime temperatures

Temperature Overview

• Chhomrong and lower trekking sections: approximately 15°C to 22°C during the day

• Himalaya and Dobhan: approximately 10°C to 15°C during the day

• Machhapuchhre Base Camp: approximately 5°C to 10°C during the day, with nighttime temperatures around or below 0°C

• Annapurna Base Camp: approximately 2°C to 8°C during the day and -5°C to -10°C at night and in the early morning

Notes: Temperatures are approximate and can vary according to season, altitude, wind, snowfall, and changing mountain weather.

Trekking Grade

• Moderate

• Suitable for trekkers with good general fitness

• Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not essential

• No technical climbing is required under normal trail conditions

• Daily trekking generally ranges from approximately 4 to 7 hours

• The highest sections require steady walking at elevations above 3,500 meters

Maximum Elevation

• Annapurna Base Camp: 4,130 meters (13,550 feet)

Accommodation

• Accommodation in the best available local teahouses and mountain lodges during the trek

• Teahouse accommodation at Himalaya, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Dobhan, and Chhomrong

• Kathmandu accommodation is not included unless requested separately

Meals

• Three meals per day during trekking days: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• Meals are selected from the available teahouse or lodge menu

• Tea or coffee is included with breakfast

• Fresh seasonal fruit is provided after dinner whenever available

• A farewell lunch or dinner is provided in Kathmandu

• Additional meals outside the trekking program are not included unless specifically arranged

Transportation

• International and domestic airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle

• Tourist bus, jeep, or car transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara

• Shared jeep or local bus transportation from Pokhara to Chhomrong

• Shared jeep or local bus transportation from Chhomrong back to Pokhara

• Tourist bus or private vehicle from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Permits Required

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card