PRICE
From US$ 1598 pp
Discounts apply for groups


DURATION
12 Days

DEPARTURE DATES
Departure Dates on Request for Private Groups

GROUP SIZE
Min 2 – Max 12 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

OVERVIEW ITINERARY TRAVEL INFO FAQ’S

Journey into the Heart of Annapurna Sanctuary and Stand at the Foot of Himalayan Giants

The Annapurna Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful places in Nepal. This section of jungle is vastly different to the Annapurna Circuit trek. The trails are very arduous, making lots of ups and downs as you traverse along river valleys and into the heart of the Annapurna Himalaya.

The trek visits the district headquarters and home of Gurung Culture, Ghandruk. You can visit the local history museum here. You have to cross over an avalanche zone on the way to base camp. Base camp is a beautiful bowl of mountains where you can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Himalayas. This is one of the best treks in Nepal.

Highlights

 – Visiting Annapurna Base Camp

 – Exploring the Vibrant Gurung Culture

 – Trekking through Alpine Forests

– The Hot Springs in Jhinu


Day 01: Arrival in Nepal

Upon your arrival in Nepal, a member of our team will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the Hotel. We have a meet and greet with the Guide/Trekking team for a trip briefing and gear check. We also treat you to a welcome dinner of Nepal’s Traditional dish Dal Bhat (Rice, Lentil Soup, and lots of Yummy side dishes).

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel (BB)

Meal Inclusions: Dinner

Day 02: Travel to Pokhara By Flight

Travel to Pokhara by Flight. Chill out in the afternoon at one of many lakeside bars. Final check of trekking gears.

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel (BB)

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 03: Drive to Nayaphul and Trek to Ghandruk (1940m/6360 ft)5 – 6 hours trek

Drive to Naya Pul (1 hour ) and start the trek. From Birethanti, we trek to Ghandruk, a beautiful village mostly inhabited by the Gurung community. If time permits, we will also visit the Gurung museum today. Overnight in Ghandruk.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 04:Trekking from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m/7120ft): 5 – 6 hours

At this juncture, we climb up for around an hour to Kimrungdanda. On the way, we can enjoy great views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre) and Ganggapurna. A steep descent takes us to the Kimrong Khola. After another steep ascent from Kimrong Khola to Chere Danda, we descend for a while and then it’s a gentle walk to Chhomrong. Chhomrong is a beautiful village located on the lap of the giant Annapurna massif. Overnight in Chhomrong.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05: Trekking from Chhomrong to Bamboo (2310m/7578ft): 4 – 5 hours

We descend via 2500 stone steps and cross the bridge above Chhomrong Khola. From here it is an uphill climb to Sinuwa. Next, we pass through a beautiful forest to Kuldihar followed by an easy downhill walk to Bamboo. Overnight in Bamboo.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 06: Trekking from Bamboo to Deurali (3230m/10,595ft): 3 – 4 hours

We pass through a bamboo forest which is damp and cold then ascend steadily with a few steep sections. It is only after reaching the Himalaya Hotel that the forest opens up and we are out in the sun again with astounding views of the glacial river below. It is a steep climb up through a much drier forest before reaching Hinku Cave. From here we can see the trail drop closer to the river before climbing again to Deurali, the most scenic stretch of the day. The vegetation is sparser, allowing magical views of the valley, the river below, and the sheer rock-face cliffs above with bands of wispy waterfalls. Overnight in Deurali.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07 : Trekking from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,545ft): 5- 6 hours

Climb gently through a river bed then over a steep trail over to the mountain side. The hike from Bagar to Machhapuchhre Base Camp is somewhat strenuous. From Machhapuchhre base camp we get excellent views of the majestic Machhapuchhre along with Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gandharvachuli and Gangapurna which is certainly a rewarding experience. The vegetation disappears on our way to ABC and the path widens as we enter the Annapurna sanctuary. From here, we get sensational views of the near-vertical south face of Annapurna towering above us. The sanctuary boasts of a dynamic view without anything impeding the 360-degree panorama. From the base camp we again get to savor mesmerizing views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South , Annapurna I, Hiunchuli and other peaks. Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 08: Trekking from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo: 7 – 8 hours

From the Annapurna base camp we retrace our steps to Bamboo. Today’s trek is downhill, so it shouldn’t be very difficult. Besides, we will always have the company of the extraordinary landscape to cheer us up. Overnight in Bamboo.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 09: Trekking from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1760m/5770 ft): 5 – 6 hours

From Bamboo, it is an uphill trek to Kuldighar followed by a downhill walk to Chhomrong Khola. Then we climb the stone steps to Chhomrong. The trail then descends to Jhinu Danda, where we will be resting for the night. Today we will have an opportunity to enjoy the hot springs which is just a 15-20 minute downhill walk from Jhinu Danda to soothe our aching body. Overnight in Jhinu Danda.

Accommodation: Teahouse

Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Trek to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara: 6 hours trek, 1 hour drive

On our way to Naya Pul from Jhinu Danda, we get to enjoy the amazing hill landscape of western Nepal. We have lunch on the way. Our trek will end at Naya Pul where we board our vehicle to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Fly to Kathmandu

Today we transfer you to the Pokhara airport for the short 23min flight to Kathmandu. A member of our team will collect you from the airport and transfer you to the Hotel. Take some time for last-minute shopping or exploring this vibrant city.

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Meals: Breakfast


Day 12: Departure from Nepal

Today we say farewell and transfer from the hotel to the airport for your outbound flight

Accommodation: None

Meals: Breakfast

VISA INFORMATION

Entry visa to Nepal can be obtained either from the relevant embassy or consulate prior to your departure or at the airport on arrival to Nepal.

Visa on arrival can be applied for via the Immigration website. Just fill in the details online and then print a copy and bring it with you. Payment is made on arrival.

Visa on Arrival Fees:-

15 Days – US$30
30 Days – US$50
90 Days – US$125 


ARRIVAL INFORMATION

The international airport in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan is located about 7km from the city center. Most of our package tours include an airport pick up. Other options are to get a pre paid taxi from the desk at the airport. The rates are fixed and fair.

INSURANCE

Travel Insurance that covers evacuation from above 5000m is required for this trip. The current entry rules to Nepal also require your insurance to cover Covid related issues. Personal travel insurance is compulsory for you to join this trip. You must present a copy of your policy upon arrival in Nepal. Two companies we recommend for travel insurance are World Nomads and Covermore.

BRINGING YOUR OWN BIKE

On the Annapurna Trip, the trails are a mix of rocky sections and powdered dirt/sandy sections, the trails are generally very dry and abrasive in most places. There are long climbs on most days and some bike carry and push involved in some places. Along the trails there will also be some river crossings.

Days comprise of an average 4 to 5 hours riding and plenty of time to explore and take photos.

We recommend the following specifications:-

• Full Suspension 110mm to 130mm travel xc bikes are ideal for this trip.

• Tire recommendation is 2.2 to 2.3 something like a MAXXIS High Roller or Schwalbe Nobby Nic or equivalent is ideal for this trip.

• Tubeless is recommended and we also recommend you bring a little extra Liquid.

• Hardtails are also okay for these trip’s if that is what you ride.

You should provide for your OWN BIKE:-

Chain Links, Spare Chain

Dry Chain Lube

Mech Hanger or Drop Out for your model of bike

Brake Pads for your Model

Brake fluid for your Model of Brake

FOOD/MEALS

The food on the trail is pretty good. Menu items vary for the local staple Dhal Bhart (Rice, Lentils, Veg Curry, Spicy Pickle and optional Meat Curry) to Noodles, Pasta, Rosti, Eggs and all kinds of soups and locally made flat breads, Oats and Potato dishes. Fresh Fruit is generally limited in these areas.

Vegetarians and Vegans are not a problem at all, there are multiple menu items for both requirements that are filling, nutritious and high energy. Though we do recommend you to pack nuts, dried fruit and relevant energy items. If you have any dietary requirements, please contact us before the trip.

A note on food related Illness:- Most people coming to Nepal get some form of stomach upset. But there are ways to avoid this, in most cases it is not from the food in the teahouses, here are our tips to stay healthy:-

Stay away from oily food in the mountains. Most of us are not used to lots of oily food for every meal and combined with the physical exhaustion, cold and altitude it can lead to upset stomachs. Try and choose light options like Dhal Soups, Soups, boiled and poached eggs, hearty porridge, pasta and rice (non-fired) dishes. Be careful with your hands, wash, sanitize and wash again!

DRINKING WATER

This is an important topic, the tap water in Nepal is NOT SAFE to drink and mineral water bottles are an environmental hazard and we do not like our clients to use them. HST is trying our best to eliminate the need for disposable water bottles.

Our office in Kathmandu has free water refills. You should bring along some form of water purification. HST will not be purchasing bottled water for this trip.

ACCOMMODATION

During the biking leg of the trip you will be accommodated in TEA HOUSES which are a form of mountain lodge. Standard varies from place to place, rooms are simple in some cases we get attached bathrooms, in others bathrooms are shared. Rooms are not heated, but are clean and comfortable and have the following:-

• Limited Internet and 3G is available in 70% of the areas. The signal may not always be fast but it is there.

• Power and access to charging – All teahouse have this and you can charge phone, cameras and lights. In some teahouses a small charge is applicable for this (100nrs). But the electricity is very limited. Carrying a Power Bank or spare batteries is recommended on this trip.

• Hot water is available in all teahouses, but can vary depending on sunshine (some places is solar). Hot water is not automatic so please tell the guide you need it and he will make sure the hotel provides it.

Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara are 3 star with all facilities.

CURRENCY

The NPR – Nepalese Rupee and it comes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Notes with 1 and 2 paisa coins. Most places in tourist areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara will accept USD, EURO, POUNDS and other major currencies.

For travel in more remote regions like Annapurna and Upper Mustang you should carry local currency in smaller denominations.

ATM’s withdrawing up to 30,000nrs at a time can be found everywhere in the tourist centers of Kathmandu and Pokhara and also there is one ATM in Jomsom and Manang. Beware the local banks charge 300nrs to 500nrs per transaction above any charges your own bank may charge you.

MONEY EXCHANGERS

Can be found all over the tourist areas and you can negotiate a little for better rates. On The street money exchangers give a much better rate than banks and hotels.

CREDIT CARDS are accepted in bigger hotels and business, the local service charge is normally 4%.


What is the risk of Altitude Sickness?

Our itinerary is set up to allow for acclimatization. As long as the riders take it steady, most people only suffer mild symptoms which are manageable. 

How will my bike be transported?

Bikes are transported in our Twin Cab Bolero with a padded tail gate. Our drivers are all professional and caring when it comes to looking after bikes. When the bikes go on the mountain flights to places like Jomsom, the wheels are removed and the bikes padded and placed in the cargo hold. 


What Happens if I get Sick?

If you get sick, you have options that include, returning to either Pokhara or Kathmandu with a member of our support team, staying and resting in place for a day or using a support vehicle to travel to next destination. It depends on severity of sickness and options available to the group at the time. For serious illness or accident, immediate Helicopter evacuation will be undertaken. 


What level of training do the guides have?

All our guides hold the Government regulation trekking guide license as per the Law of Nepal. On top of this, as per our own company policy, Himalayan Single Track is the ONLY mountain bike company in Nepal to have international licensed mountain bike guides either through the MBLA Scheme or the MIAS Schemes. This is because to date Nepal Tourism sector does not have a safety regulation standard for mountain bike guides. On top of this all our guides have Valid wilderness first aid certification. 

Is tipping expected in Nepal?

Tipping is not compulsory but it is expected and very much appreciated. 

What sort of food is on offer in the guest houses?

Teahouses have a wide variety of simple and hearty foods like Momos, Chow Mein, Rice dishes, pasta, eggs, vegetables and curries as well as breakfast items, porridge, cereal, omelets and local breads. 

Do you cater for Vegetarian’s/Vegans and Specials Diets?

Yes we do. Options are many in Nepal. Please inform us prior to the trip so we can make sure your dietary needs are properly looked after.

Should I take Diamox?

Taking Diamox (medication for altitude) is a personal choice, though it is a good if idea you are worried about the affects of altitude. It should be taken in advance of the trip. Please consult your Doctor before taking any medications. 

What happens if my bike breaks?

Our guides will try their best to fix the bike. Where possible a replacement bike will be brought to you, though given the remote terrine of Nepal, this make take an extra day or so. 

Do you take pictures of the trip?

Most of our guides will take photos of the trip for you. We also have specialized photographers/Videographers you can book for the trip if you need to. (Extra Charges Apply)

What if the mountain flights don’t go?

All mountain flights are weather dependent. If the flight does not go, you will get the option to drive on the same day or fly on the following day. 

Do I need a sleeping bag?

In most cases a sleeping bag liner is sufficient. In the colder months its a good idea to bring one. Blankets will also be available at the teahouses. We will send you a packing list relevant to the trip with full details once you have booked.

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+977 9823100104​ 


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