Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp Trek – A 7-Day Scenic Itinerary

Recommendation: Start in pokhara and begin the seven-day alpine circuit with a light pack. Arrange a porter if you want to manage weight, and bring cash for teahouse stays. The september window often offers clear mornings and dramatic himalayan silhouettes, but nights can be chilly. This isnt a casual stroll; sturdy footwear and a deliberate pace around the hill corridors and village lanes will keep you steady. If you arrive via kathmandu, a quick flight lands you at pokhara and the plan can begin on time.

Dzień 1: from the trailhead, the first forested ascent climbs to a village and lands you in a teahouse. Distances typically span 12–14 km with 700–900 m of ascent; the pace is steady, and tea stops are frequent. If you want to lighten your load, arranged lub porter support is widely available, making the day comfortable for most hikers.

Dzień 2: follow terraced paths toward ghorepani, gaining roughly 600–900 m as you climb. The machhapuchhare profile rises on the horizon, and you reach a hillside village with reliable teahouses. september mornings can be crisp, and you’ll often make good time if you keep a light daypack.

Dzień 3: sunrise vantage at ghorepani yields sweeping views, followed by a descent toward Tadapani. From here you press toward the next hill corridor and encounter classic nepal village life. The himalayan panorama intensifies as you climb over ridges and pass streams.

Day 4: the route continues toward chhomrong with stone steps and lodge breaks; Day 5 goes onward through dovan, a popular stop that offers friendly hosts and robust tea, ensuring you can make the transition to higher terrain. Distances hover around 10–12 km with a 0.6–1.0 km elevation gain, and september weather tends to be drier in the mornings. Some days you’ll face longer climbs, but the scenery keeps motivation high.

Day 6-7: descent toward the river valley and return to the trailhead, then back to pokhara. If you’re heading to kathmandu, internal flights or overland options let you complete the loop quickly. Carry cash for the last-night teahouses and plan a light, sturdy pack for the final miles.

Compelling reasons to choose this circuit include close-up hill perspectives, the shimmering machhapuchhare profile at dawn, and the chance to experience nepal village life in a condensed week. The balance of daily hikes, tea-house stays, and arranged support from local teams makes it feasible for first-timers and seasoned hikers alike, while cash management and porter options keep costs predictable.

Day-by-Day Itinerary Snapshot: 7 Scenic Days from Pokhara to ABC

Always bring well-broken boots and book lodging ahead; this 7-day segment rewards adventurers with rich skies, peaceful mornings, and a personalized pace that suits your visits to monasteries and tea houses along the way.

1. Day 1: Transfer from the lakeside gateway to Nayapul, then a steady riverbank climb to Tikhedhunga (≈1,600m). 4–5 hours of walking with a few stone bridges and a subtropical forest backdrop. Included lodging at a cozy teahouse and meals; transfer from your hotel available; permits and ID copies needed; international adventurers welcome; boots on, water refilled, and a first light reveal of a calm, peaceful start and a sense of accomplishment as the skies brighten.

   • Distance/time: 4–5 hours
   • Altitude: up to 1,600m
   • Highlights: bridges, forest corridors, riverbank scenery
   • Notes: lodging included; transfer available

2. Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (≈2,750–2,900m). 5–6 hours of ascent through cedar and rhododendron groves; a ridge walk yields glimpses of distant peaks when clouds part. Included lodging and meals; hot drinks at tea houses; Fishtail views become more likely with clear skies. Need: trekking permit and ID; personalized pace welcome; international adventurers okay; reflecting on your progress as the route climbs higher.

   • Distance/time: 5–6 hours
   • Altitude: up to 2,900m
   • Highlights: ridge sections, rhododendrons, potential Fishtail glimpses
   • Notes: lodging included; permission and ID needed

3. Day 3: Ghorepani to Tadapani via a morning Poon Hill option (sunrise viewpoint). 4–6 hours through mixed forests with varied light; optional early ascent for panoramic skies and a dramatic down-climb into Tadapani (≈2,630–2,700m). Included lodging and meals; hot drinks and short breaks refresh the legs; your visits to local communities add a rich cultural layer.

   • Distance/time: 4–6 hours
   • Altitude: up to ~2,700m
   • Highlights: sunrise panorama (optional), forested ridges, village vibes
   • Notes: lodging included; permits and ID as usual

4. Day 4: Tadapani to Chomrong, descending into a deep river valley then climbing again to a gorge-side village (≈2,170m). 5–6 hours with several stone staircases and suspension bridges. Included lodging and meals; peaceful forest tone dominates; reflect on the evolving scenery as the Fishtail looms in the distance on clear days.

   • Distance/time: 5–6 hours
   • Altitude: up to 2,170m
   • Highlights: river crossings, dense forests, valley viewpoints
   • Notes: lodging included; transfer not required

5. Day 5: Chomrong to Deurali via Dovan and the higher forest trail (≈3,200–3,260m). 5–7 hours of gradual ascent with cedar and rhododendron blends; occasional open banks offer wide views when skies cooperate. Included lodging and meals; water breaks and tea stops help maintain energy; reflect on your steady progress and enjoy a tranquil evening at a mid-malt tea house.

   • Distance/time: 5–7 hours
   • Altitude: up to ~3,260m
   • Highlights: forest belts, stone steps, river crossings
   • Notes: lodging included; permits and ID needed

6. Day 6: Deurali to ABC sanctuary edge, the final ascent (≈4,100–4,130m). 4–6 hours of steady climbing with alpine meadows and scree gradually narrowing; you’ll feel the air thin but the views become expansive, with the famous fishtail peak often visible on clear mornings. Included lodge near the edge and meals; transfer to the trailhead or village can be arranged for the next day. Your pace is personalized to keep the right balance between effort and acclimatization; ready for a dramatic, peaceful close to the journey.

   • Distance/time: 4–6 hours
   • Altitude: up to ~4,130m
   • Highlights: high-altitude panoramas, alpine terrain
   • Notes: lodging included; transfer options available

7. Day 7: Descent from ABC out toward greener valleys, with a final transfer back toward the lower country or an arranged departure, depending on your plans. This wrap-up focuses on a gentle pace, tea and drinks at a final tea house, and a chance to reflect on your accomplishment. Availability of a light transfer to the roadhead or airport is noted; policies support flexible ends for international travellers; this closing leg keeps your memories vivid of the rich cultural textures and the serene skies you savored along the way.

   • Distance/time: 4–7 hours (descent)
   • Altitude: 1,600–2,000m on descent
   • Highlights: final tea house stop, Tibetan-influenced culture, panoramic views on descent
   • Notes: lodging and meals wrap up; transfer to roadhead/airport available

Budget Breakdown: Estimated Costs for a 7-Day ABC Trek from Pokhara

Plan a practical budget: total per person typically ranges from about 420 to 750 USD, depending on seasons and the level of comfort chosen. The package includes permits (about 40–60 USD), a certified guide (roughly 25–35 USD per day), an optional porter (15–25 USD per day), lodging in teahouses with shared rooms (8–25 USD per night for seven nights), meals (10–25 USD per day), and incidentals (20–40 USD for batteries, charging, tips, and small items).

Accommodation on the route is layered: kyumi lodges and Tibetan-inspired teahouses are common, offering basic amenities and a warm view. Shared rooms are standard; hot showers are extra in many places, and some properties include a compact kit (lamp, blanket) as part of the lodging. For more comfort, budget roughly 30–40 USD per night in select lodges; also factor in occasional upgrades if you want private rooms or better view.

Starting point nayapul is the typical access; dovan is a frequent stop en route; the altitude reached about 4100 meters at the main viewpoint. Distances vary by day, but hikers should expect gradual ascents with dramatic views. e-bike charging remains limited beyond lower villages; you may bring a small solar charger, and many lodges provide charging, though at a fee; the day-by-day meters gained matter for acclimatization and comfort.

Refund policy: most lodges offer a refund for unused nights if canceled within a set window; cancellation terms differ by operator, and deposits may be non-refundable. To minimize risk, choose flexible options and confirm what the price includes–view, trekking days, and lodging amenities–before paying. Also, verify that your guide is certified and that the service promises safety, solid comfort, and reliable support today. If youre budgeting, note that prices fluctuate with the seasons, and today’s plan should emphasize proper acclimatization and rest days.

What’s Included, Meals, Gear, and What to Bring for the ABC Trek

Recommendation: Pick a package that bundles meals, teahouse stays, park permits, and insurance; this most effectively safeguards your time, budget, and safety, and it helps enhance your overall accomplishment on the ascent.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are standard, with hot beverages and snacks along the route; traditional dishes featuring rice, lentils, vegetables, and protein are common; plan for three main meals daily and carry a small stash of energy snacks for uphill sections.

Accommodations and support services: Tea-house lodging offers clean beds and common lounges; expect shared bathrooms where available; porter support helps move your gear, and a licensed guide can be added if desired; all required fees and permits are typically arranged by the operator; safety briefings and a rescue plan are standard components.

Gear and clothing: Pack a weatherproof layer system, durable trekking boots, trekking poles, a warm down jacket, thermal layers, a sun hat, gloves, rain shell, sunscreen, and sunglasses; bring a headlamp with extra batteries, a compact sleeping bag liner, and a 40–60 liter daypack; item rentals are often available to keep the load down; include a water bottle and a filter or purification tablets for safety and health.

What to bring: Passport copies, travel insurance details, emergency contacts, cash in small denominations, a basic first-aid kit, personal medications, a map or offline guide, and a practical list of snacks; keep essential items in your daypack to ease uphill sections, and bring a spare layer; you may also want a small towel and a compact extra layer for chilly evenings.

Altitude and safety: The route reaches altitudes near 4,100 meters; plan for an acclimatization day and moderate pacing to reduce risk of altitude sickness; hydrate regularly, limit alcohol, and follow the guide’s safety plan; watch for headache or dizziness and adjust activity accordingly; stone stair sections can be slick in wet conditions, so step carefully.

Budget, timing, and questions: Most operators offer fixed-package pricing with clear inclusions; budget-friendly options exist that cover meals and lodging plus essential fees; confirm insurance, evacuation terms, and transfer details from the gateway city to the starting point; prepare questions in advance to avoid surprises and make the most of your time on the trail.

Thanks to this checklist, you’ll move with confidence, spot the most majestic views, and celebrate the accomplishment at the basecamp.

Booking, Group Travel, and Practical Tips from Pokhara

Book guided group departures at least 4–6 weeks ahead to lock in transport, lodging, and a stable pace where everyone can align on daily targets and rest stops.

Choose operators that provide personalized knowledge through seasoned leaders; if you are eager to deepen your knowledge, request a primary guide plus a backup for groups larger than 6 to keep decisions fast on tricky ridge sections and to enrich the experience for fellow travelers, covering iconic viewpoints. For smaller groups, a single guide is often sufficient, but optional extra support can help during high-altitude days.

Verify included amenities: hot meals, hot showers when available, and reliable lodging; confirm charging facilities for devices, and whether power banks are recommended; most options offer teahouse stays with sturdy beds and clean bathrooms.

If time is tight, a 5-days version exists for portions of the route; discuss with the agency to align with your pace and to avoid missing impressive viewpoints along the way.

Pack smart: trekking poles, a lightweight shell, sun protection, a compact matque for rests, and a sturdy daypack; bring devices with spare batteries and solar chargers where possible; guides will reflect the day’s elevation gains in meters and plan rest stops accordingly, making the experience enriching and comfortable throughout.

Logistics and Booking Essentials

Ask for a personalized quote that itemizes transport, lodging, and guide fees; compare 2–3 operators; verify licenses and emergency protocols; while comparing, ask about what is included for meals, water, and tea-house visits; ensure the group size is clearly listed and confirm meeting points for pickups at the gateway hub. If you have last-minute questions about pace, plan changes, or packing lists, use this checklist for comparisons. Choose highly rated operators to minimize risk and ensure reliable support.

On-Ground Tips for Group Travelers

Arrive 1–2 days before the start to acclimate and meet your fellow travelers; provide a clear plan and questions about hiking pace, daily distances, and altitude gains; discuss who carries poles and who uses a multi-use device; keep carry-ons small and distribute weight evenly; stay flexible for weather and be prepared to adjust with a friendly, respectful attitude–this makes the visit more enriching for everyone and ensures a calmer experience throughout.

Safety, Permits, and Health Considerations on the Pokhara–Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Get your ACAP permit and a TIMS card before departure; carry printed copies and your passport. This upfront step prevents delays at the first checkpoint and keeps your 7-day circuit on track. For first-timers, booking a trusted local guide can offer reliable support across elevations, making your travel in nepal more manageable and memorable.

Permits and Registration Essentials

ACAP fee for foreigners is typically around NPR 3,000; TIMS card around NPR 2,000. Total near NPR 5,000, payable in local currency at issue. Always confirm current rates with a licensed operator or official ACAP/TIMS channels before starting. You’ll need your passport photos and a copy of your passport; expect checks at the trailhead or entry point. If you plan a 4-day circuit, permits still apply, but plan around tighter acclimatization and lodging availability.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Health comes first: altitude sickness can develop rapidly above 3,000 m. Build in an extra day for acclimatization and walk at a comfortable level. If headache, dizziness or nausea arise, do not push; descend to a lower area and rehydrate. Target 3–4 liters daily in warm conditions; purified water via boiling or chemical tablets is recommended. Snacks including energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit help maintain energy between lodges. Pack a compact first-aid kit with blister care and a basic thermometer. Use the right clothing and footwear: moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, a windproof shell, hat and gloves. Ensure your footwear has solid grip for rough sections. Lodges across villages provide basic warmth, but facilities vary and are limited; carry a sleeping bag liner as backup. The dramatic scenery around machhapuchhre adds compelling appeal to the journey for many travelers; pace according to your travel level to keep it memorable. This isnt a time to rush or push beyond your limits; modi guidelines in some programs provide safety briefings and equipment checks–listen to local advice and adjust to current conditions. The 7-day adventure itself can be rewarding, but staying within your limits is crucial to your health. Lodges reflect varied lifestyles, and customer expectations differ–verify insurance coverage and review operator credentials before booking.