How Long Does It Take to Trek Annapurna Base Camp?

Annapurna Base Camp trek duration, itinerary options & how many days you really need

Planning your Annapurna Base Camp trek usually starts with one core question: How many days does it take? The typical Annapurna Base Camp trek duration is 4 to 6 trekking days, depending on your starting point, pace, and itinerary. In this guide, we break down how long the Annapurna Base Camp trek takes from trailheads such as Nayapul, Syauli Bazaar, Ghandruk and New Bridge, so you can choose the route that genuinely suits your timing, fitness, and expectations.

The quick answer: How many days for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

Most trekkers reach ABC in 4–6 trekking days, or 7–12 total travel days when including transfers, rest time and sightseeing. If you’re wondering how long the Annapurna Base Camp trek is, this is the most reliable timeframe: fast enough to be efficient, slow enough to enjoy the sanctuary.

Why the duration varies so much

Three factors shape your Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary more than anything else.

1. Your starting point

Trailheads like Syauli Bazaar, Ghandruk, and New Bridge shorten the trek significantly. Starting from Nayapul adds approach days and more cultural walking but takes longer.

2. Your trekking pace

Some trekkers enjoy long, steady days. Others prefer shorter stages to take in the landscapes and villages.

3. Your route variation

A direct route into the Annapurna Sanctuary is shorter. Extended itineraries add viewpoints, stopovers, or rest days. These choices turn a 5-day push into a relaxed 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Typical trekking time by starting point

Below is a clear overview of how long the trek usually takes from each major trailhead. All ranges assume normal pace and acclimatisation.

Starting from Nayapul — 6 to 9 trekking days

• The classic, longer approach
• Passes through more villages and terraced landscapes
• Best for trekkers who enjoy cultural immersion and a slower warm-up

Starting from Syauli Bazaar — 5 to 7 trekking days

• Popular shortcut start
• Quick access from Pokhara
• Ideal for those with limited time

Starting from Ghandruk — 5 to 7 trekking days

• Begins in a scenic Gurung heritage village
• Reduces approach time while adding cultural richness
• Smooth entry into the Chhomrong section

Starting from New Bridge — 4 to 6 trekking days

• One of the shortest itineraries available
• Great for fast trekkers and tight schedules
• Frequently paired with a finish via Jhinu Danda hot springs

These ranges align naturally with most 4–6 day Annapurna Base Camp trek variations used by fit or time-sensitive trekkers.

What the walking days actually look like

Regardless of your starting point, most itineraries merge after Chhomrong. A typical rhythm for both 5-day and 7-day Annapurna Base Camp treks looks like this:

1. Lower trailheads → Chhomrong
2. Chhomrong → Bamboo or Dovan
3. Bamboo/Dovan → Deurali
4. Deurali → Machapuchare Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
5. ABC descent → Bamboo
6. Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → drive back to Pokhara

If time allows, many trekkers enjoy ending with a soak in the Jhinu Danda hot springs before returning to Pokhara.

How long is the Annapurna Base Camp trek in kilometres?

Depending on the starting point and route variation, the trek spans approximately 70–115 km in total.

Why Annapurna Base Camp feels bigger than the numbers

The Annapurna Sanctuary offers a rare combination of Himalayan amphitheatre, lush forests, stone steps, village pathways and river valleys. The experience feels larger than the mileage — every day adds new landscapes and perspectives that reward a steady, immersive pace.

Practical planning advice

1. Add buffer days

Weather, road conditions and transport can shift, especially in monsoon or winter. Build in a spare day to keep your plans flexible.

2. Respect the altitude

At 4,130 m, ABC requires steady pacing, good hydration and gradual ascent — important even for fit trekkers.

3. Choose your start point based on your time

• If you’re short on time, consider the Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara beginning at Syauli Bazaar or New Bridge.
• If you prefer a cultural, scenic introduction to the region, start from Nayapul.
• If you want simplicity, a guided Annapurna Base Camp trek package removes all logistical complexity.

FAQ

How many days do you need for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

Most trekkers need 4–6 trekking days and around 7–10 total trip days. Faster itineraries are possible from New Bridge; longer ones suit those who prefer a gentler ascent.

Can you do the Annapurna Base Camp trek in 5 days?

Yes — a 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek is achievable with strong fitness, long trekking days, and good conditions. These itineraries almost always start from New Bridge or Syauli Bazaar.

Is a 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek a good itinerary?

Absolutely. A 7-day Annapurna Base Camp trek offers a comfortable pace, more time in the villages, and a smoother ascent — ideal for travellers who want to enjoy the sanctuary rather than rush it.

What is included in an Annapurna Base Camp trek package?

A typical Annapurna Base Camp trek package includes permits, guide, porter support, accommodation, meals on the trail, round-trip transfers from Pokhara, and full logistical support.

Where does the Annapurna Base Camp trek start from?

Most travellers begin their Annapurna Base Camp trek from Pokhara, driving to Nayapul, Syauli Bazaar, Ghandruk or New Bridge depending on the itinerary length.

If you want the full planning picture beyond duration, read our Annapurna Base Camp trek guide for first timers, including difficulty, altitude, permits, and what each day feels like.

Ready to plan your trek?

If you’d like help selecting the right Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary, from a small-group ABC trek to a customised private departure, our team can plan the perfect journey for your dates, pace and preferred trekking duration.