The Annapurna Base Camp trek is usually 9 to 12 days, but a shorter version is possible because jeeps now reach villages high in the lower valley. A 6-day plan keeps the whole Sanctuary climb and cuts the early stages. It is faster, and it is tighter.
Day by day
Altitudes and walking times on this page are approximate and differ a little between maps, GPS devices and lodges. Treat them as planning figures, not survey data.
- Pokhara to Chhomrong (about 2,170 m). Drive to the roadhead and walk or jeep as far as the road allows; the stage depends on road condition.
- Chhomrong to Himalaya or Dovan (about 2,600 to 2,870 m). Steep stone steps and bamboo forest.
- To Deurali (about 3,230 m). A rising path in the upper valley.
- Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (about 3,700 m), then on to Annapurna Base Camp (about 4,130 m) if you feel well.
- Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp, then descend to Bamboo (about 2,310 m). A long descent.
- Bamboo to Jhinu or Chhomrong and a jeep to Pokhara.
Where the plan is tight
From Himalaya at about 2,870 m to Machhapuchhre Base Camp at about 3,700 m takes only two stages. The gentle approach of the full itinerary is replaced by steady climbing. See ABC altitude.
One extra day is worth it
A 7-day version adds a night at Deurali or MBC before going on to ABC. It is the version we recommend for most people. See the full 11-day itinerary.
Road access
Roads change from year to year. The point where jeeps stop depends on season and condition. Confirm the day-one plan before you travel.
Package
Our 10-day Annapurna Base Camp trek is the closest ready-made trip; ask us for a shorter version.
A realistic first day
Leave Pokhara early, drive to the roadhead and walk or jeep as far as conditions allow. Check lodge availability in Chhomrong during the main seasons. Starting early leaves you time to adjust the stage if the road is bad.
Questions to ask your operator
- Where will the jeep take us on day one?
- Where do we sleep each night and at what altitude?
- What is the plan if the weather closes the upper valley?
- Is there a spare day?
Common questions
Can I do Annapurna Base Camp in 6 days?
Yes, with jeep access. It is tight on acclimatisation.
Is 7 days better?
Yes. An extra night at Deurali or MBC makes the climb gentler.
Where do jeeps stop?
It varies. Confirm before departure.
