EARLY BIRD! Moderately Challenging Nepal
TRIP TYPE
Trekking
DURATION
8 Days
DESTINATION
Nepal
This is an eight-day guided trek from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres, with five consecutive days on foot, tea-house accommodation, meals, permits, porters and airport-to-airport support. It suits active first-time Himalayan trekkers with no technical climbing experience, although steep stone steps, sustained ascent and altitude still require training. If you prefer a quieter ridge journey, compare the Mardi Himal trek.
Curated by Rami Rasamny Reviewed by Shiva Raj Bastakoti
Still choosing your first Himalayan trek? Use our Nepal trek chooser to compare Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal, EBC and Gokyo by duration, terrain and accommodation.
Traveller fit: Best for active first-time Himalayan trekkers who will train for five consecutive days on foot, long stone stair sections, sustained ascent and descent, and altitude up to 4,130 metres. No mountaineering or technical climbing experience is required. This trip is not suitable for: anyone unwilling to prepare for long walking days, accept simple tea-house accommodation and shared facilities, or follow the trekking team’s pace and altitude decisions.
Thinking about a future Himalayan climb? Our Nepal progression guide explains what ABC can prepare you for, and which altitude experience and climbing skills still need to be developed and assessed.
This can be a first Himalayan trek for an active person willing to train. It is not a technical climbing trip, and it is not an effortless introduction. The aim is to arrive ready for the walking, open to the community around you and realistic about mountain conditions.
Use the ABC versus EBC difficulty comparison if you are choosing between the two base camps.
For total spending beyond the departure price, use the Annapurna Base Camp budget guide. Work through the Nepal trekking insurance checklist before asking your insurer to confirm cover for the complete itinerary and optional activities.
Review the itinerary and available dates below. If you want to discuss the daily walking or your preparation time, talk to our team before reserving.
1
Airport to airport organisation with LHO Team Leader coordination, certified local trekking guides, porters and Base Camp support.
2
Five consecutive trekking days through forests, villages and the Annapurna Sanctuary, with an overnight stay at 4,130 metres.
3
A compact, supported first Himalayan base camp trek for active travellers with limited annual leave and no technical climbing experience.
Prices are per person and include all taxes. Where shown, the Early Bird price applies to that departure; the crossed-out price is the standard price. Review the inclusions and exclusions and Booking Terms before booking.Shared accommodation is standard. See room upgrades, baggage and changed-plan costs below.
2026
DATE & STATUS
PRICE
TEAM LEADER
AVAILABILITY
2027
DATE & STATUS
PRICE
TEAM LEADER
AVAILABILITY
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP
DAY 1: WELCOME TO KATHMANDU
Kathmandu is wild, vibrant, and full of energy, and it is where our Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins. On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, we are met by an LHO representative and transferred to our hotel in the city. Once checked in, there is time to settle in, recover from the journey, and get ready for the adventure ahead.
If we arrive early, there is space to get our first taste of Kathmandu, from its markets and cafés to its temples and street life. Our Team Leader is on hand to help with recommendations, answer questions, and make sure everything is in place before we head into the mountains. In the evening, we come together for our first official event of the trip, a welcome dinner hosted by our LHO Team Leader and local lead guide. It is our first chance to meet the group, hear about the route ahead, and begin this journey into the Annapurna Sanctuary together.
DAY 2: TRAVEL TO THE ANNAPURNA REGION AND START THE TREK
Our Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins early. After breakfast, we transfer to Kathmandu airport for the short flight to Pokhara, then continue by road to the trailhead above the Annapurna River. Flights in Nepal are weather dependent. If the flight cannot operate, LHO will arrange a private van transfer to Pokhara instead at no extra cost. From the trailhead, we begin trekking into the Annapurna region through forest, fields and mountain villages.
Once we reach the trailhead, our certified local trekking guides become your main point of support on the trail. They set the pace, manage the route and support the group, working with your LHO Team Leader and Base Camp team to keep the experience running smoothly.
The trail climbs steadily towards Chhomrong, one of the key gateway villages on the route into the Annapurna Sanctuary. This first trekking day is about settling into the rhythm of the journey, finding a sustainable pace and getting our first real feel for life on the trail in Nepal. Dinner is served at the tea house.
DAY 3: TREK HIGHER INTO THE ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY
Distance: 12.6 KM | Ascend: 1300 M | Descend: 678 M | Max Altitude: 2,720 M
Today is one of the longest and most varied days of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. We descend from Chhomrong, cross the river, and begin the climb back up through changing terrain as the route takes us deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Villages gradually give way to quieter tea houses, thicker forest, and a stronger sense that we are now properly in the mountains.
Along the way, we pass through places such as Upper Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Dovan before continuing on towards Himalaya, our stop for the night. The scenery becomes more dramatic as the valley narrows and the atmosphere turns more remote. By the time we arrive, the sense of progression is real. Dinner is served at the tea house.
DAY 4: REACH ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP
Distance: 9 KM | Ascend: 1800 M | Descend: 505 M | Max Altitude: 4,130 M
This is the day we reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres. Leaving Himalaya, we continue through the upper valley towards Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp, with the landscape opening wider and the high mountain setting becoming more dramatic with every step. The route is less about technical challenge and more about steady movement, altitude awareness, and staying consistent as the environment becomes harsher and more exposed.
After Machhapuchhre Base Camp, we make the final approach into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Surrounded by giant Himalayan walls, Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most striking trekking destinations in Nepal. Once we arrive, we settle into the tea house, take in the panorama, and head out to enjoy the evening light over the mountains. Dinner is served at the tea house.
DAY 5: SUNRISE AT ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP AND BEGIN THE DESCENT
Distance: 14 KM | Ascend: 572 M | Descend: 2380 M | Max Altitude: 4,130 M
An early wake up is worth it this morning. Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp is one of the defining moments of the trek, with first light spreading across the surrounding peaks inside the Annapurna Sanctuary. After breakfast, we begin the descent, retracing our steps past Machhapuchhre Base Camp and down through the valley.
As we lose altitude, the air feels richer and the landscape begins to change again. The challenge today is not reaching high ground but managing a long descent well and moving carefully to protect the knees and stay fresh. By the time we reach Bamboo, we have come a long way in a single day and earned a well deserved evening at the tea house.
DAY 6: JHINU HOT SPRINGS AND RETURN TO POKHARA
Distance: 9.2 KM | Ascend: 595 M | Descend: 1191 M | Max altitude: 2,300 M
Our final full trekking day begins with more descent through the Annapurna region as we work our way towards Jhinu Danda. This part of the route can still feel demanding, especially with the last big stair sections still to come, but the reward at the end is one of the most memorable extras on the whole trip.
After reaching Jhinu, we head to the hot springs beside the river for a well earned soak in one of the most beautiful recovery spots in Nepal. Later, we say farewell to the trekking team, transfer back to Pokhara, and check into our hotel. In the evening, we come together for a celebration dinner and the first proper return to comfort after days on the trail.
DAY 7: POKHARA TO KATHMANDU
With the trail behind us, we return to Kathmandu today. After time in Pokhara, we transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight back to the capital and then continue to our hotel. If weather prevents the flight from operating, LHO will arrange a private van transfer to Kathmandu instead at no extra cost. The afternoon gives us space to rest, explore, shop for souvenirs or simply take in the contrast between the mountains we have just left and the energy of the city.
In the evening, we come together for a final team dinner to close out the journey. It is a chance to reflect on the week, celebrate what we have achieved together and enjoy one last evening before departures begin.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM KATHMANDU
Today is departure day. Breakfast at the hotel is included, and airport transfers are arranged according to the departure information shared with our team. If any details change before the end of the trip, they should be passed on to the Team Leader so the final transfer plans can be updated smoothly.
This brings our Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal to a close, with support continuing right through to the airport.
OUR COMMITMENT
We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone involved in our services receives a fair living wage in their respective countries. We invest in our team members, fostering upward mobility within the adventure travel industry, expanding educational opportunities, and offering support wherever we can. By joining an LHO adventure you are directly impacting the incredible people and the remote communities that make these life-changing experiences possible.
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HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES
We take practical steps to support your wellbeing throughout every Life Happens Outdoors adventure. We work with trusted local partners and expect the accommodation, transport and activity providers used on the trip to follow applicable health and safety requirements. We also follow the laws and current guidance of each destination. Before departure, we will share any material entry, health or public-health requirements that may affect your trip. In the mountains, conditions can change, so guests must follow briefings and the decisions of Life Happens Outdoors Team Leaders and local guides. Contact us if you need the latest destination-specific information.
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I joined LHO on a trek to Annapurna Base Camp last Fall. The Himalayas are of course amazing; but the best part was the people I met on that trip. Everyone on the team was amazing! We shared laughs and unforgettable moments. Whether its for reaching the summit at 6:00 am or bathing in hot springs after days of strenuous trekking, I am thankful for this trip that has reconnecting me with nature.
I joined LHO on a trek to Annapurna Base Camp last Fall. The Himalayas are of course amazing; but the best part was the people I met on that trip. Everyone on the team was amazing! We shared laughs and unforgettable moments. Whether its for reaching the summit at 6:00 am or bathing in hot springs after days of strenuous trekking, I am thankful for this trip that has reconnecting me with nature.
EXPANDKarim Zaatari
I had an amazing experience with LHO from the moment we landed in Kathmandu to the very end of the trip. The organisation is superb, all staff members are wonderful to interact with and very helpful with everything one needs. The trek itself was gorgeous, and the amount of knowledge and expertise shared by our Team Leader Rami was very rich and generous. You feel that the team altogether from expedition leader to the supporting staff member genuinely care about your experience and want to make it as awesome as possible. I certainly felt I was getting the best there is out this trek. I enjoyed every second of it with everyone on the group! It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!! Thank you to each member of LHO for making this happen despite all odds. I look forward for our next experience!!
I had an amazing experience with LHO from the moment we landed in Kathmandu to the very end of the trip. The organisation is superb, all staff members are wonderful to interact with and very helpful with everything one needs. The trek itself was gorgeous, and the amount of knowledge and expertise shared by our Team Leader Rami was very rich and generous. You feel that the team altogether from expedition leader to the supporting staff member genuinely care about your experience and want to make it as awesome as possible. I certainly felt I was getting the best there is out this trek. I enjoyed every second of it with everyone on the group! It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!! Thank you to each member of LHO for making this happen despite all odds. I look forward for our next experience!!
EXPANDHened Choueiry
It was an amazing trip with an amazing group! Perfect way to challenge myself & discover a new culture. Couldn’t have asked for a better team leader, thank you so much LHO. Ending it at the Hot Springs was a perfect touch!
It was an amazing trip with an amazing group! Perfect way to challenge myself & discover a new culture. Couldn’t have asked for a better team leader, thank you so much LHO. Ending it at the Hot Springs was a perfect touch!
EXPANDGhenwa Tarabay
There are no words to express the joy this trip with LHO has given me. I expected nothing less from this ABC trip as my previous experience to Kilimanjaro has proven how dedicated LHO is to providing us with once in a lifetime adventures.
There are no words to express the joy this trip with LHO has given me. I expected nothing less from this ABC trip as my previous experience to Kilimanjaro has proven how dedicated LHO is to providing us with once in a lifetime adventures.
EXPANDMarwan Oueida
So starting from having a tiny thought of joining an expedition LHO Team, specifically Elie takes care of every single question, hesitation, detail, explanation, nagging, ignoring and headache that I might have caused at the initial stages.
So starting from having a tiny thought of joining an expedition LHO Team, specifically Elie takes care of every single question, hesitation, detail, explanation, nagging, ignoring and headache that I might have caused at the initial stages.
EXPANDMariz Doss
I loved this trek / experience with LHO, it was very well organized and prepared. Bader (the guide) had the whole appropriate experience and knowledge to lead this trek. Thank you LHO for this, and of course thanks Bader for this amazing time.
I loved this trek / experience with LHO, it was very well organized and prepared. Bader (the guide) had the whole appropriate experience and knowledge to lead this trek. Thank you LHO for this, and of course thanks Bader for this amazing time.
EXPANDOmar SAAD
Last one for the books. Thank you all for an incredible journey, I really enjoyed every bit of it, the good, the bad, and the ugly 😂 special thanks to Ranwa for your good vibes, genuine care, and for forcing us to eat even when we didn’t want to 🍕we couldn’t have asked for a better lead! It was a pleasure going through this experience with all of you! Till our next trip inshallah 😊
Last one for the books. Thank you all for an incredible journey, I really enjoyed every bit of it, the good, the bad, and the ugly 😂 special thanks to Ranwa for your good vibes, genuine care, and for forcing us to eat even when we didn’t want to 🍕we couldn’t have asked for a better lead! It was a pleasure going through this experience with all of you! Till our next trip inshallah 😊
EXPANDFikrat
It was such a pleasure meeting everyone😁 this has been an amazing adventure with wonderful people😍, thank you LHO and thank you soooo much Ranwa for being such an amazing team leader 😍😍
It was such a pleasure meeting everyone😁 this has been an amazing adventure with wonderful people😍, thank you LHO and thank you soooo much Ranwa for being such an amazing team leader 😍😍
Lojain
I wanted to say thank you, to the LHO team for organizing an amazing trip and bringing us to ABC camp and back safely and with great memories I shall carry w me.🫰 Also I would like to shout out Ranwa for being an amazing team leader and she is such a wonderful person the LHO team is lucky to have her. InshAllah to more future trips 🤿👀
I wanted to say thank you, to the LHO team for organizing an amazing trip and bringing us to ABC camp and back safely and with great memories I shall carry w me.🫰 Also I would like to shout out Ranwa for being an amazing team leader and she is such a wonderful person the LHO team is lucky to have her. InshAllah to more future trips 🤿👀
EXPANDOmar
Thank you for your wonderful friendship and support. It was the wonderful team leader, my amazing superstar Sherpa Kebin and the entire team of Sherpas especially Solan and not to forget Raj! Each and everyone of you made it possible for me to make it to the Annapurna Base Camp safely. Sending you all so much love and best wishes! I am sure our paths will cross again soon! 🙏🥰🏔️🇳🇵
Thank you for your wonderful friendship and support. It was the wonderful team leader, my amazing superstar Sherpa Kebin and the entire team of Sherpas especially Solan and not to forget Raj! Each and everyone of you made it possible for me to make it to the Annapurna Base Camp safely. Sending you all so much love and best wishes! I am sure our paths will cross again soon! 🙏🥰🏔️🇳🇵
EXPANDNilofar
Is Annapurna Base Camp suitable for first time trekkers?
Yes, it can be a realistic first Himalayan trek for an active person who prepares properly. No mountaineering experience or technical climbing skills are required. You do need the fitness to walk for several days in a row, patience for long stair sections, comfort with basic tea houses and a willingness to communicate early if you feel unwell. Read our Annapurna Base Camp guide for first time trekkers for the full suitability check.
How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
LHO classifies the trek as Moderately Challenging. Most trekking days are around six hours and the longest can reach about nine. The challenge comes from repeated stone steps, sustained ascent and descent, changing conditions and altitude up to 4,130 metres rather than technical climbing. Read our route specific ABC difficulty guide for the complete breakdown.
What makes LHO’s eight day ABC route different?
This is a compact airport to airport itinerary for travellers with limited annual leave. It normally uses flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara, includes five consecutive trekking days, an overnight stay at Annapurna Base Camp, sunrise in the sanctuary, Jhinu Hot Springs on the descent and support through to departure. If weather prevents a flight from operating, LHO arranges a private van transfer instead at no extra cost. The trade off is concentrated effort, so it suits active travellers who are prepared for long days.
Your Buddha Air flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara include 25 kg of checked baggage and 5 kg of hand baggage per person. This is separate from the 12 kg porter allowance on the trek.
How high is Annapurna Base Camp and can altitude affect me?
Annapurna Base Camp is 4,130 metres above sea level. Altitude can affect anyone, regardless of fitness. The right approach is to follow the guides’ pace, communicate symptoms early and follow the decisions of the trekking team. Read our route specific altitude guide for a fuller explanation.
What is the accommodation like?
The trip uses selected hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and basic family run tea houses on the trail. Hotel rooms have a higher level of comfort and private bathrooms. Tea houses are simpler and normally use shared bathrooms and shared dining areas. Hot showers may be available for a local charge but cannot be guaranteed at every stop.
The standard price uses shared rooms, with solo travellers normally paired with another traveller of the same sex. The £200 single-room upgrade, including all taxes, covers the two Kathmandu hotel nights and one Pokhara hotel night only. It excludes the four tea-house nights, is subject to availability and must be requested when booking.
How much does the Annapurna Base Camp trek cost with LHO, and what is included?
The live price covers the published eight day package, including the listed accommodation, local guides and porters, trekking meals, airport transfers, internal transport, permits, an LHO-supplied duffle bag with a 12 kg allowance and LHO support. International flights, visa fees, insurance, tips and personal expenses are excluded. Review the current dates and prices and what is included before booking.
Tips are discretionary. Refer to your trip guidebook for recommendations where available; any currency exchangeable in Nepal into Nepalese rupees or US dollars is acceptable. Personal equipment is your responsibility, and rentals are subject to availability.
When is the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?
The strongest general windows are October to November and March to April. Autumn usually brings clearer views and more stable conditions, while spring is warmer and brings colour to the lower forest sections. Mountain weather is never guaranteed. Compare Nepal’s trekking seasons, then choose from the live ABC departure dates. For route-specific seasonal advice, read our guide to the best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp.
Who leads and supports the trek?
LHO coordinates the journey from arrival through departure. Your LHO Team Leader supports the wider trip experience, while certified local trekking guides lead the group on the trail and work with the porters and Base Camp team. The local guides manage pace, route decisions and day to day support in the Annapurna Sanctuary.
What happens if the itinerary changes or I need extra services?
The trekking guides, LHO Team Leader and Base Camp team coordinate changes for weather, conditions or guest welfare. The eight-day itinerary has no separate contingency day and cannot guarantee a fixed return time.
Extra nights and services outside the included itinerary or required by an individual change are your responsibility. After the included itinerary ends, additional services are charged per traveller at actual supplier cost. Where practical, we agree the revised scope and estimated amount with you in writing before committing to non-emergency services. Insurance reimbursement depends on your policy and is not guaranteed.
PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE
€2303
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