Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp
Nepal
12 Days
Standard Route
Moderate
4130 m
Approx 6-9 hrs
Hiking the Annapurna Base Camp is one of the best adventure trips out there! This multi-day trekking trip takes you high into the Annapurna mountains, a beautiful and culturally diverse section of the Nepal Himalayas.
Expedition Highlights
Mt. Annapurna is the tenth highest peak in the world with a height of 8091m located in the western zone of Nepal. Annapurna region is a protected region and it is the largest conservation area of Nepal.
This area spans 7,639sq km. Within its vicinity, lies one of the most popular trekking destinations of the world; The Annapurna Base Camp, popularly known as ABC Trek. ABC is located at an altitude of 4130m and call the “Sanctuary of the Gods”.
The trekking begins from the city of lakes, Pokhara. We follow the trail through the popular Gurung Village of Ghandruk. The trail consists of the scenic beauty of waterfalls and rivers, a dense and red forest of rhododendron following the narrow Modi Khola valley. Moreover, the dazzling beauty of Annapurna, Machapuchhre (Fishtail), and Himchuli attract us towards them in our walk. No technical difficulties make this trek feasible for hikers who have no training or any sort of experience in trekking.
There are lodges set out at every checkpoint. We walk for around 4-6 hours and stop by the lodge and continue trekking the next day until reaching the destination. This route is mostly recognised for the panoramic views of the Annapurna
Route Map
Trip Details
2025 Dates
04 – 15 Oct 2025
01 – 12 Nov 2025
06 – 17 Dec 2025
Includes
- ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: Airport – Hotel transfers – Airport (Pick Up and Drop), by private vehicle.
- HOTEL ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU: 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu (4-star category) – Twin sharing on bed and breakfast plan.
- HOTEL ACCOMMODATION IN POKHARA: 2 nights hotel in Pokhara (4-star category) – Twin sharing on bed and breakfast plan.
- WELCOME DINNER: One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmanduwith Office Staff.
- PERMIT: All necessary paper works: Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), TIMS Card, other entry
- INSURANCE: Medical &Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
- MEMBER TRANSPORTATION: Domestic Flight from Kathmandu – Pokhara returning from Pokhara – Kathmandu, as per itinerary.
- MEMBER LUGGAGE: Up to 15 Kg per member as personal baggage during the trek to be carried by porters.
- FOOD & LODGING: 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at Hotel/Lodge during the trek. Hygienic and fresh green vegetables, and fresh meat, will be served during the trip.
- GUIDE: Government-licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.
- PORTER: Porters as required (2 members: 1 Porter) to and from Basecamp (both ways).
- STAFF SALARY AND ALLOWANCE: All Nepalese staff & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing.
- MEDICAL KIT: Comprehensive medical kit.
Excludes
- AIR FARE: International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
- NEPAL ENTRY VISA FEE: Nepalese Visa fee is $50 for 30 Days.
- LUNCH & DINNER: Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking / Expedition than the scheduled itinerary).
- EXTRA NIGHT IN KATHMANDU: Extra nights accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking, or domestic flight cancellation (due to any other reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- PERSONAL EXPENSES: Telephone Calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages.
- PERSONAL CLIMBING EQUIPMENT: Clothing, Packing Items, Bags, Personal Medical Kit, and all kinds of Personal Trekking Gear.
- TOILETRIES: Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
- INTERNET SERVICE: Not included during the trek, but can be purchased daily $10 at the tea houses.
TIPS: porters tips $200 - Extra: Any other services or activities, which are not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
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PRICE €2199
Deposit €399 on booking.
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Practical Info
Frequently asked questions
The following frequently asked questions may help answer any queries you have about Jason Black Mountaineering, what this expedition involves, and what is required. If your question isn’t answered here please check our dedicated Expert Advice page, otherwise don’t hesitate to get in touch.
How Fit Do You Need to Be for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is a moderate to challenging trek that requires good endurance, leg strength, and the ability to handle steep ascents and descents. While it is not as high as the Everest Base Camp trek, it has more steep stone steps and continuous elevation gain and loss, making it physically demanding.
📌 Physical Requirements for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
1. Endurance & Cardiovascular Fitness
- The trek takes 7–12 days, covering 8–15 km per day.
- Expect 6–8 hours of trekking per day, often involving 1,000m+ elevation gain.
- There are long ascents of stone steps (especially in Ulleri and Chhomrong).
✅ Training Recommendations:
- Hike 12–18 km (7–11 miles) with a 10 kg pack at least once a week.
- Stair climbing (30–45 min with a 5–10 kg pack).
- Running, cycling, or swimming (3–4 times a week, 45–60 min per session).
2. Strength & Load-Carrying Ability
- You’ll be carrying a daypack (5–8 kg) while porters carry your main luggage.
- The trail consists of thousands of steep stone steps, which can be exhausting on the knees.
- The descents are tough on the legs, so quad and knee strength are crucial.
✅ Training Recommendations:
- Squats, lunges, deadlifts (for leg power).
- Step-ups (50 cm box) with a weighted pack.
- Planks & core exercises (for stability on uneven terrain).
3. High-Altitude Acclimatisation
- The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m, which is lower than Everest Base Camp but still high enough to cause altitude issues.
- The trek allows for better gradual acclimatisation, but some trekkers experience mild AMS symptoms.
4. Mental Toughness
- The relentless stone steps can be exhausting over multiple days.
- Expect weather changes—rain, cold, and sometimes snow at higher altitudes.
- The final push to ABC is tiring, but the scenery makes it worthwhile!
✅ Mental Training:
- Train in tough conditions (rain, wind, and steep terrain).
- Push through exhaustion with back-to-back training hikes.
- Simulate long trekking days (5–8 hours per day) with elevation gain.
📍 Minimum Fitness Benchmarks for ABC Trek
You should be able to:
✅ Hike 1,000m+ elevation gain with a 10 kg pack (6–8 hrs).
✅ Run 10 km in under 60 minutes (for cardio endurance).
✅ Climb stairs for 45 min with a 5–10 kg pack.
✅ Walk/hike for 6–8 hours multiple days in a row.
⛏ Who Should NOT Attempt This Trek?
🚫 If you have never done multi-day trekking or long hikes.
🚫 If you cannot walk uphill for 6–8 hours per day.
🚫 If you have no experience with high-altitude trekking (above 3,000m).
🚫 If you struggle with steep ascents and descents.
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is achievable for those with good endurance, leg strength, and the ability to handle steep climbs and descents. If you can hike long distances, navigate stone steps, and handle altitude well, you’ll be well-prepared.
Would you like a 12-week training plan for the Annapurna Base Camp trek? Let me know your current fitness level, and I’ll tailor one for you!
12-Week Training Plan for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
This structured 12-week training plan is designed to build endurance, strength, and stamina for tackling long trekking days, steep ascents/descents, and high-altitude challenges on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Since this trek involves continuous elevation changes and thousands of stone steps, the plan focuses on leg strength, cardiovascular fitness, and mental resilience.
📌 Weekly Training Schedule Overview
|
Day |
Activity |
|
Monday |
Strength Training + Stair Climb with Pack |
|
Tuesday |
Cardio (Running/Cycling) + Core |
|
Wednesday |
Weighted Hike (10–15 km) |
|
Thursday |
Strength + Endurance (Step-ups, Stability) |
|
Friday |
Rest or Light Recovery (Yoga, Stretching) |
|
Saturday |
Long Hike (15–20 km, 800–1,200m ascent) |
|
Sunday |
Active Recovery (Swimming, Cycling) or Technical Skills |
🏋️♂️ Phase 1 (Weeks 1–4): Building Base Endurance & Strength
Goal: Develop cardiovascular endurance, core stability, and leg strength to prepare for long trekking days.
✅ Hiking & Trekking
- 8–12 km (5–7.5 miles) hikes with a 5–10 kg backpack.
- 500–800m elevation gain.
- 3–4 hours duration.
- Use trekking poles to protect your knees.
✅ Strength Training (2x per week)
- Squats – 3 sets of 12 reps.
- Lunges – 3 sets of 10 reps per leg.
- Step-ups (40 cm box) with a weighted pack – 3 sets of 12 reps per leg.
- Planks – 3 x 1 min (for core strength).
✅ Cardio Training
- 45–60 min runs or cycling/swimming at moderate intensity.
- Stair climbing (30 min with a 5 kg pack).
✅ Mental Preparation
- Train in uncomfortable weather (rain, cold, wind).
- Break in your boots and test your trekking gear early.
🏔 Phase 2 (Weeks 5–8): Strength, Endurance & Altitude Preparation
Goal: Increase hiking difficulty, elevation gain, and multi-day trek preparation.
✅ Hiking & Trekking
- 12–18 km (7–11 miles) with a 10–12 kg pack.
- 800–1,200m elevation gain.
- 5–7 hours duration.
- Back-to-back hikes on weekends (Saturday & Sunday).
✅ Strength & Stability (2x per week)
- Step-ups (50 cm box) with a 12 kg pack – 3 sets of 15 reps per leg.
- Deadlifts – 3 sets of 8 reps (for lower back strength).
- Farmer’s Carry (15 kg per hand) – 3 sets of 30m (for grip & backpack strength).
- Planks & Hanging Leg Raises (for core & balance).
✅ Cardio & Endurance
- 60 min continuous run, cycling, or swimming.
- Interval running (5x 3 min fast, 3 min slow).
- Rowing or stair climbing for 40 min with 8 kg pack.
✅ Technical & Terrain Adaptation
- Practice walking on rocky, uneven terrain.
- Use trekking poles effectively on steep descents.
✅ Acclimatisation & Altitude Prep
- If possible, train at high altitude (above 3,000m).
- Use an altitude tent or hypoxic mask for simulation.
- Increase exposure to cold weather & strong winds.
🏆 Phase 3 (Weeks 9–12): Peak Performance & Trek Simulation
Goal: Simulate multi-day trekking, maximise endurance, and finalise preparations.
✅ Hiking (Most Important)
- 15–20 km (9–12 miles) with a 12–15 kg pack.
- 1,200–1,500m elevation gain.
- Back-to-back long hikes (Saturday & Sunday) – 7+ hours per day.
- Summit a local peak (if possible) to simulate long trekking days.
✅ Final Strength & Endurance Training
- Stair Climbing (45–60 min with 12 kg pack).
- Bulgarian Split Squats – 3 sets of 12 per leg.
- Planks & Hanging Leg Raises – 3 sets of 1 min.
✅ Mental Training & Simulation
- Practice early morning hikes (start at 4 AM) to simulate summit day.
- Train in cold conditions (if possible).
- Simulate long trekking days with full gear and a loaded backpack.
✅ Recovery & Injury Prevention
- Cold showers & ice baths to prepare for extreme temperatures.
- Stretching & foam rolling to prevent muscle tightness.
📍Final 2 Weeks (Taper & Recovery)
🔹 Reduce heavy training (Taper).
🔹 Focus on mobility, stretching, and rest.
🔹 Test your full gear & pack during a light hike.
🔹 Hydration & nutrition strategy practice.
💡 Key Training Tips
✔ Train with your boots & backpack early.
✔ Use trekking poles to protect knees on long descents.
✔ Train slow, steady breathing at altitude.
✔ Practice on mixed terrain (rock, loose scree, stone steps).
✔ Hydration & nutrition practice – Know what fuels you best.
✔ Recovery matters! – Foam roll, stretch, and prioritise sleep.
🚀 Are You Ready for Annapurna Base Camp?
✅ Can you hike 1,200m+ with a 12–15 kg pack?
✅ Can you handle 8-hour hikes back-to-back?
✅ Have you trained in cold, high-altitude conditions?
✅ Are you comfortable with long trekking days and steep descents?
If you check all the boxes, you’re ready for one of Nepal’s most beautiful treks!
Would you like customised adjustments based on your fitness level? Let me know!
Valid Passport
Credit/Debit Card
InsuranceBase Layers
Merino wool Underwear (2-3 pair)
1 x Lightweight Long leg Base Layer.
2x long sleeve base layer merino wool doesn’t smell
2x Short Sleeve Synthetic Shirt or T-shirt for low down on the trail.
Mid Layers
- 1x Trekking shorts for low down on trail.
- 1x Soft Shell or hoodie or fleece top to be worn over other layers
- 1x Lightweight walking Pants
- 1 x Heavyweight walking Pants (higherup)
Windproof/Rain Layers
- 1x Hard Shell Jacket with hood: waterproof and breathable
- 1x Hard Shell Pants: waterproof and breathable
Insulation Layers
- 1x good quality heavy Insulated Down fill puff Jacket with hood (gets cold at night)
Headwear
- 1x Warm Hat: synthetic or wool hat (ski hat)
- 1x Baseball Cap or other sun hat: to shade your face/neck from the sun on a hot day
- 2x Buff: to protect your neck/face from the sun and high winds
Eyewear
- 1x Good quality Sunglasses.
Gloves
- 1x Lightweight Base Layer Gloves: for wearing on cool morning starts.
- 1x heavier ski Gloves: to wear for cold days, Cold nights or days with high winds
Footwear
- Comfortable Wool or Synthetic hiking Socks (3 pairs)
- Hiking Boots/Trekking Shoes.
- Crocs style footwear for wearing in lodges with good thick warm socks
Sleeping Equipment
- Sleeping Bag: rated to at least -10°C
Pillow case to put over the pillow supplied in the tea houses.
Earplugs (A must if a light sleeper)
Trekking Gear
- Trekking Backpack: to carry on the trek to base camp. Simple and light 40ltrs.
- Compression Stuff Sacks: for reducing the volume of the sleeping bag, down parka, etc., in your pack/duffels
- A few strong trash/Black Bag: to line backpack.
- Trekking Poles adjustable
- Headlamp: with 2/3 extra sets of new batteries or can charge each night in tea houses
Travel Items
- Large 120L Duffel Bags with Locks for porters to carry each day transporting your gear head
- 2 sets of Travel Clothes, for days while back in kathmandu
- Wait and do your currency exchange (in kathmandu) to purchase SIM cards or
merchandise in cities and villages
Other Equipment
- Water Bottles 2x wide mouth bottles with 1-liter capacity (easy buy in KMD)
- Sunscreen: SPF 50 or better
- Lip Screen: SPF 30 or better
- Toiletry Bag: include small towel, toilet paper and hand sanitiser
- Pee bottle: 1-liter minimum bottle for convenience at night (personally a must, to avoid cold night walk to outdoor toilet)
- Female Urination Device (FUD)
- Small Personal First-aid Kit: include athletic tape, band-aids, Ibuprofen, blister care, cough drops, etc.
- Medications and Prescriptions: bring antibiotics (Azithromycin, etc.), and altitude medicine such as Diamox and dexamethasone
- Country-appropriate plug adapters to charge phone camera etc.
- Camera: bring charger, and memory cards.
Optional Electronics
- books, iPad or Kindle
You may pay your deposit and balance using any lawful means. If sending money by electronic bank transfer then you will be responsible for covering the cost of the fees associated with the transfer, so that the company receives the full amount shown on your invoice, in the denomination shown on your invoice.
See more about our payment policy Here
On Booking your expedition our returns policy can be viewed here
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have sufficient personal Insurance for this expedition. Your policy must provide cover for:
Medical injury or sickness
Trekking up to 4,500 metres
Helicopter evacuation in an emergency situation
Repatriation to country of residence.
We recommend https://www.trailfinders.ie/
Due to unanticipated reasons, for example, injury, family issues, work commitments, etc., clients may need to cancel their trip before the start or during the expedition. Considering these factors, it’s better to be prepared for the possibilities.
As mentioned in the Terms and Conditions of Jason Black mountaineering, the company is exempt from being liable for different expenses that may occur in case of different emergencies or unforeseen situations. Both facts point out the requirement of a client to purchase an elaborate travel insurance plan in their place of origin that protects their interest in case of trip cancellation, helicopter evacuation, medical emergencies, other illnesses, lost luggage, theft, disasters, death, and so on.
You are free to pick your insurer however look for an arrangement that covers trip postponement and cancellation, rescue, and covers medical as well. Guarantee it doesn’t have limitations on the height you will climb, prohibitions on the exercises you are embracing, or the places you will be visiting. Protect yourself with the right insurance so you can go on your expedition with peace of mind and focus more on your climbing.
Please make sure to send us a copy of your insurance policy before you start your expedition so that we can assist you in any case of an emergency.
