Ridge Recon Unit Logo Icon
RIDGE RECON UNIT
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna, NepalTrek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

A dramatic alpine journey deep into the 360-degree glaciated amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary

Max Elevation4,130m13,550 ft
Duration11 DaysFull Round-Trip
Best WindowSeptember to December & March to MayOptimal Conditions
Lead Guide TeamHAWS Veteran TeamAlpine Safety
ROUTE OVERVIEW & OBJECTIVE

The High-Altitude Journey

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek provides an astonishingly rapid transition from terraced green hills and rhododendron forests into a fortress of high-altitude rock and ice. Standing at 4,130m inside the Sanctuary, you are enveloped in a 360-degree amphitheatre of giant peaks including Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (the sacred Fishtail, 6,993m), and Annapurna South.

Why Choose This Objective:An exceptional high-altitude trek for those who want an intense amphitheatre experience with lower maximum altitude risk than EBC.

Key Route Highlights

Complete 360-degree mountain panorama inside the Annapurna Sanctuary
Gaze up at the sheer 3,000m South Face of Annapurna I (8,091m)
Unmatched views of sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail Peak)
Natural geothermal hot springs relaxation at Jhinu Danda on the descent

Day-by-Day Expedition Itinerary

11 Days Profile
D1

Pokhara to Nayapul & Trek to Tikhedhungga (1,540m)

Waypoint: 1,540m

Drive along scenic river valleys and commence trek through terraced foothills.

D2

Tikhedhungga to Ghorepani (2,860m)

Waypoint: 2,860m

Ascend the stone steps of Ulleri and continue through dense rhododendron woods.

D3

Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210m) & Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)

Waypoint: 3,210m

Pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill for panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.

D4

Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m)

Waypoint: 2,170m

Descend to the Kimrong Khola before climbing to the scenic Gurung village of Chhomrong.

D5

Chhomrong to Dovan (2,600m)

Waypoint: 2,600m

Pass through bamboo and rhododendron forest alongside the Modi Khola river.

D6

Dovan to Deurali (3,200m)

Waypoint: 3,200m

Trek past the Hinku Cave as the canyon narrows and vegetation shifts to alpine scrub.

D7

Deurali via Machapuchare Base Camp to ABC (4,130m)

Waypoint: 4,130m

Enter the Annapurna Sanctuary gateway. Arrive at Annapurna Base Camp surrounded by towering walls.

D8

Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp & Trek to Bamboo (2,310m)

Waypoint: 2,310m

Marvel at golden sunrise hitting the 8,000m summit of Annapurna I, then begin descent.

D9

Bamboo to Jhinu Danda Hot Springs (1,780m)

Waypoint: 1,780m

Descend to Jhinu Danda and soak in the soothing riverside natural geothermal hot springs.

D10

Jhinu Danda to Siwai & Drive to Pokhara

Waypoint: 820m

Short morning walk to the roadhead and scenic drive back to Pokhara lakeside.

D11

Pokhara to Kathmandu & Expedition Wrap

Waypoint: 1,400m

Return transfer to Kathmandu. Debrief with expedition leaders.

Expedition Support & Inclusions

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit and TIMS card
  • Experienced RRU mountain leader and mountain staff
  • All teahouse lodge accommodations and meals
  • Private road transfers between Pokhara and trailhead
  • Emergency medical kit and daily health assessments