Annapurna North Base Camp Trek
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek

Duration7 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4990M
Group Size2+
StartsKathmandu / Pokhara
EndsPokhara / Kathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeAutumn and Spring

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Overview

Trekking to Annapurna North Base Camp is an amazing experience. If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path trails in the Annapurna region, it offers a unique and thrilling adventure. This less-traveled and pristine trail in the Annapurna Circuit is also known as the Maurice Herzog Trail. The Annapurna Rural Municipality (ARM) group explored this route in 2019. To promote this historic route, various trekking associations in Nepal, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), local people, and the Ministry of Tourism, are working together. They are making an effort to spread the word about this route to various groups, travel agencies, and individual trekkers.

North Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Highlights

  • Panoramic views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and more.
  • Less crowded trail than the traditional Annapurna Base Camp route, perfect for those seeking solitude and untouched landscapes.
  • Trek through lush forests, terraced fields, rivers, and serene villages like Tatopani, Ghasa, and Lete.
  • Cultural experience, local cuisine, and hospitality of the Magar and Thakali communities.
  • Exploring wildlife and Nature, such as spotting snow leopards, Himalayan musk deer, and rare medicinal herbs like Yarshagumba.
  • Discover waterfalls, glacial lakes, and Tatopani’s natural hot springs.
  • Camping experience adds to the adventure as there are no teahouses along the route.

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Cost

Trekking to North Base Camp includes a camping experience. For the duration of the trek, it requires a porter, a guide, and camping supplies like a tent, food, and cooking equipment. The total cost of the trek is affected by these elements.

Nepal Trekking Routes offers the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek package for per person. It includes the basic camping setup, a porter, food, transportation, permits, and other essential items. Although it is more costly than other similar treks in the Annapurna region, it offers a more remote, classic, and less crowded experience.

We also offer group discounts for this trek package. If you want to know more about the cost of the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, then feel free to contact us via email or WhatsApp.

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Itinerary

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is a camping trek that takes 3-4 days to reach the base of Mt. Annapurna I. It is remote, less commercialized, and more exploratory than the popular routes. The trek can be customized into a longer or shorter one depending on your requirements.

Nepal Trekking Routes offers customization of this trek as follows:

  • Itinerary length: The trek can be shortened by skipping the acclimatization day at Base Camp or driving further past Tatopani. To extend the trek, side trips or cultural stops can be added.
  • Starting points: The starting points can be altered, either from Tatopani, Narchyang, or Humkhola.

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Preparation

The Annapurna North Base Camp trek is suitable for all skill levels. If you are a seasoned trekker able to walk for 6-7 hours each day at altitudes above 3000m, then it will be easy for you. If you are a beginner, you can prepare by doing exercises at home. You should practice cardio exercises and hike up hills in your hometown.

The trek is moderate, but due to a lack of teahouses, you may have to be prepared for basic camping. You have to adjust to basic living arrangements like sleeping in a tent, eating simple Nepali meals, and using the bathroom in the open air. You should be mentally as well as physically prepared as you will be camping in remote locations.

Always keep in mind that being well-prepared can enhance your trekking experience. You should pace yourself and stay hydrated while ascending to higher altitudes.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand All

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our representatives will receive you. You will be transferred to a hotel. In the evening, you will have a briefing about the trek.

 

Accommodation: Deluxe Hotel

You will either take a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Alternatively, you will take a tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It takes around 6-7 hours to reach Pokhara by road. You will spend the night in Pokhara.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Deluxe Hotel

After breakfast, we will drive to Hum Khola. We will pass through Kande, Nayapul, Kusma, Parbat, and other places. The drive first leads us to Baglung, which takes around 3 hours. We continue our drive to Tatopani via Beni. We will have lunch at Tatopani.

You will see deep gorges as we move from Tatopani. There are hydropower tunnels, garages, trucks, and dozers on the construction site. We cross the Kali Gandaki River and arrive at Hum Khola after 6 hours of traveling from Pokhara. The last stop on this road is a basic teahouse offering food and supplies. We set up our tents, prepare our dinner, and spend the night at Hum Khola.

Max Altitude: 2890 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 hrs.

After having breakfast, we will hike gradually towards Busket Mela (3,650m). To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, we stay hydrated and pace ourselves. We will arrive at Futfutey and enjoy the view of a gorgeous waterfall. We will continue walking to Sandikharka, a shelter in the middle of the trail. We will pause here and eat some snacks.

As we move along the trail, you can see Tilicho Peak. After walking for 6 hours, we will finally arrive at Busket Mela, today’s destination. We will set up our tents and use filtering tablets to drink the water from the nearby river. We will eat dinner cooked by ourselves and sleep under the stars.

Max Altitude: 3650 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tent CampDuration: 7 Hrs

The calming sound of the river will wake us up in the morning. We will have breakfast and resume our journey towards the Campsite. Along the way, we take a break, rehydrate, and walk through waterfalls and small streams.

As we continue walking, we will see the sign pointing to Sunkhola, the river with stones of golden hue. Then, we will arrive at the Campsite (4,050m). From here, it takes only 30 minutes to hike to Annapurna North Base Camp. There are no shelters at the base camp, so we set up a tent at the Panchakunda Lake Campsite. We cook dinner, eat, and spend the night at the Campsite.

Max Altitude: 4050 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: CampingDuration: 8 Hrs

We will have breakfast and head towards North Annapurna Base Camp. You can see wild animals and livestock like the Himalayan Blue sheep. You will pass through the Shiva temple and reach Narchyang lake, also known as Pancha Kunda. The lake is visited by Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims. This natural lake is pure and pristine with turquoise blue water.

We will move towards the Base Camp. The elevation of Annapurna North Base Camp is 4,190 m. From here, you can see Nilgiri range, Tilicho Peak (7134m), Bharha Chuli (7,647m), Khangsar Kang (also known as Roc Noir, 7485 m), and Annapurna I (8091 m). After enjoying the stunning mountain views, we will return to Hum Khola.

It takes around 6 hours to hike back to Hum Khola. We trek along the same trails to reach Hum Khola. From there, we will take a jeep ride to Tatopani. At Tatopani, we will relax in the local hot spring and spend the night in a hotel.

Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs

After breakfast, we will ride back to Pokhara. After 4 hours of travel, we will arrive at Pokhara. You will check into the hotel. You can either plan another trip to Muktinath, other treks with our agency, or return to Kathmandu. We can help you arrange your travel.

Meals: B.LAccommodation: Deluxe HotelDuration: 6 Hrs
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pickups and drop off service in private vehicle.
  • 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast in twin sharing bed and breakfast basis.
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek with breakfast Lunch and Dinner.
  • farewell dinners with cultural program.
  • All ground transportation in a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.
  • An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader.
  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
  • T-shirt and trekking map are yours to take.
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS).
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader).
  • All government and local taxes.
Excludes
  • International airfare.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • City sightseeing entry fee in Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Lunch and dinner while you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal expenses.
Essential Information

The North Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region. It offers breathtaking scenery and a unique trekking experience. Here are some essential information you need to know:

North ABC Trek Location:

The Annapurna North Base Camp is located close to the village of Narchyang in the Myagdi district of western Nepal. It lies in the lesser-known northern side of the Annapurna Massif.

North ABC Trek Accessibility:

It is accessible from Pokhara, through a paved road. The road is bumpy and rough from Beni onwards. 

Maximum Elevation:

The maximum Annapurna North Base Camp altitude is 4,190 m.

Best Time for Trekking to Annapurna North Base camp:

The best time for trekking to Annapurna North Base Camp depends on the weather, trail conditions, and individual preference. Different seasons offer unique experiences.

  • Spring (March-May): The weather in Spring is mild and dry. The blooming rhododendrons make the trails beautiful. It offers vibrant forests, good visibility, and fewer crowds. It can get hot in lower elevations.
  • Autumn (September-November): Autumn is one of the ideal times for trekking. The weather is cool, dry, and the skies are clear. It offers great visibility, crisp air, and the best mountain photography. There may be slightly more trekkers on lower trails
  • Winter (December-February): Winter is off-season for trekking in Nepal. The weather is cold with chances of snow above 3,000m. The challenges of this season is that the camp zones may be difficult to reach without proper gear and guides.
  • Monsoon (June-August): Monsoon is also considered off-season for trekking in Nepal. The weather is unpredictable and wet. The roads are prone to landslides, and leeches in the forests are annoying. The challenges of this season are poor visibility, slippery trails and tough logistics.

Accommodation During the North Annapurna Trek

  • Up to Narchyang: Homestays or basic teahouses
  • Beyond Chhotepur: Tent camping only

Showers:

  • Tatopani: Hot springs.
  • Narchyang: Basic hot bucket showers
  • Higher camps: No shower, wet wipes or glacier-water splash

Internet and Charging

  • Wi-Fi: Only in Tatopani and Narchyang
  • Charging: Available at lodges

Food and Drinking Water

  • Food: Dal Bhat, noodles, rice, potatoes, canned goods at higher altitudes.
  • Water: boiled water, filtered spring water

Permits Required

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)- NPR 3,000 (USD 25)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)- NPR 2,000 (USD 15)

These permits can be obtained from Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If you book with us, arranged by our agency, Nepal Trekking Routes.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. You can tip a guide, porter, or camp staff 10%. Always tip in hand at the end of the trek with gratitude.

Last-Minute Booking with Nepal Trekking Routes

Nepal Trekking Routes accepts last-minute bookings. We can handle permits, transport, guides, and equipment quickly and reliably. However, it is advised to book in advance.

Eco-Friendly Trekking Options

  • Bring a reusable water bottle, filter or purification tablets.
  • Say no to plastic bottles and snacks.
  • Carry out your non-biodegradable waste.
  • Opt for solar power chargers over gas-powered ones.

Mode of Transportation:

The Annapurna North Base Camp trek needs various transportation which can be arranged by our agency. Here are some examples:

  • To trailhead: Private jeep is flexible and reliable.
  • Public buses: Cheaper but slower and less comfortable.
  • Helicopter (optional): For emergencies or luxury adventures.

Equipment Required:

Here are some packing essentials for the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek:

  • 4-season sleeping bag for camping
  • Insulated jacket and waterproof layers
  • Trekking boots
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
  • Power bank
  • First aid kit + personal medication
  • Snacks, gloves, water purification

Financial Institutions

  • ATMs are available in Pokhara and Beni only. 
  • Bring enough cash in Nepali Rupees for the entire trek.
  • Remote areas do not accept cards or foreign currency.

People and Culture

You will pass through Magar and Gurung villages. These ethnic communities offer warm hospitality, and you can enjoy Nepalese meals. You can observe the traditional farming and authentic village life. These villages have rich culture and oral history. The homes have unique architectures with stone roofs. Saying “Namaste” is a respectful greeting.

Type of Travel

It is adventure travel for those willing to camp in the remote locations. It is off-the-beaten-path trekking for experienced trekkers. It offers a remote wilderness experience for those looking for a challenge. Since it is a camping-based expedition, it is important to hire a guide and porters. 

Trekking Tips

  • Acclimatize slowly and don’t rush above 3,000m.
  • Always trek with a local guide for safety.
  • Layer your clothes as mornings and nights can get chilly.
  • Carry some snacks, as trail food is limited.
  • Don’t rely on GPS alone. Maps and guides know more and help in navigation. 

Best Alternative Treks

If Annapurna North Base Camp is too rugged or remote for your needs, you can consider other alternatives. 

  • Khopra Danda Trek is nearby, and easier with panoramic views. 
  • Mardi Himal Trek is a short and scenic ridge-line route with teahouse stays. 
  • Mohare Danda Trek is a community-based eco trek, great for culture lovers. 
20 years of Adventure
Why Travel with Nepal Trekking Routes?
We Care for Your Safety
We Care for Your Safety
Nepal Trekking Routes always focus on safety, and satisfaction of our valued clients. Our Trekking guides are highly experienced and trained to operate various group trekking trip in high Himalaya.
Provide Financial Protection
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NTR prioritize healthy financial safety for clients, ensuring proactive safeguarding of client interest. Our commitment strengthens our role as trusted partners maintaining standards with dedication and Excellence.
100% Local Guide
100% Local Guide
Traveler looking for experience authentic insights through trekking in Nepal NTE offer your 100% local guide who help you to experience unique perspective ensuring and enriched journey customize to your interest.
Personalized Service
Personalized Service
We always provide one guide and one porter to two guests in order to meet our standard of providing standard service. Impeccable hospitality and quality services are guaranteed while traveling with us.
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