Annapurna Circuit Trek

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

As you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu), a representative from Next Trip Nepal will warmly welcome you. Look for a sign bearing your name! After completing airport formalities, you'll be transferred to your accommodation in the vibrant Thamel area of Kathmandu.

Whether you're exhausted from the long flight or eager to begin your adventure, you can relax at your hotel or explore Thamel, the bustling market area known for its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere. It's an excellent place for last-minute shopping for trekking gear or simply soaking in the local culture.

In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to meet your trek guide during the pre-trip meeting. This session will give you all the information you need for your upcoming Everest Base Camp Trek, including a briefing on the trek's itinerary, safety measures, and the trek ahead.

Highlights:

• Welcome by Next Trip Nepal representative at Tribhuvan International Airport.
• Comfortable private transfer to your hotel in Thamel.
• Explore Thamel's vibrant market for shopping and local experiences.
• Pre-trip meeting with your guide to discuss the trek itinerary.

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) – Duration: 6-7 hours

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) – 6-7 hours.

Your journey to Annapurna Base Camp begins with a scenic 6-7 hour drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m). Covering approximately 200 km along the Prithvi Highway, this route offers breathtaking views of lush green hills, terraced farmlands, winding rivers, and small traditional villages scattered along the way.

As we travel alongside the Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers, you’ll witness Nepal’s countryside beauty, with occasional glimpses of Himalayan peaks such as Manaslu (8,163m), Annapurna (8,091m), and Ganesh Himal ranges in the distance.

A lunch stop at Malekhu, a town famous for its delicious freshwater fish, adds a delightful culinary experience to the journey. For adventure seekers, Trishuli River rafting is an optional activity.

Passing through towns like Mugling and Damauli, we eventually reach Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital. Upon arrival, you can explore the vibrant lakeside city, enjoy a relaxing evening by Phewa Lake, or make final preparations for the trekking adventure ahead.

Highlights

🚗 Start the Trip: A Next Trip Nepal guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu and begin the journey.

🌊 Trishuli River Rafting (Optional): On the way, you may witness or participate in white-water rafting on the Trishuli River, a popular adventure activity.

🍽️ Lunch in Malekhu: Stop at Malekhu, a town renowned for its delicious freshwater fish dishes, which travellers across Nepal enjoy.

🛣️Scenic Drive: Travel alongside the Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers, passing through Mugling and Damauli, with occasional glimpses of Himalayan peaks like Manaslu (8,163m), Annapurna (8,091m), and Ganesh Himal ranges in the distance.

🏙️ Arrive in Pokhara: After reaching Pokhara, explore the city, enjoy a relaxing evening by Phewa Lake, or prepare for the trekking adventure ahead.

📌 Note: If you prefer a quicker option, take a 20-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, enjoying aerial views of the Himalayan peaks.

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul & trek to Ulleri (1,900m / 6,234ft) – Duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast in Pokhara, we take a private vehicle for a 1.5-hour scenic drive to Nayapul (1,070m), the starting point of the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. This drive offers stunning views of terraced farmlands, lush green hills, and the snow-capped Annapurna range, passing through traditional villages along the way.

Upon reaching Nayapul, we register at the Birethanti Checkpoint, a major entry point for trekkers heading to Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and Annapurna Base Camp. From here, we begin trekking along a gradual uphill trail passing through Sudame and Hile, surrounded by rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and terraced fields.

At Tikhedhunga (1,540m), trekkers can stay overnight or continue the challenging climb to Ulleri, where 3,200 stone steps test endurance. Many trekkers prefer staying in Ulleri (1,900m) to break up the long trek to Ghorepani the next day.

Ulleri is a beautiful Gurung village where most hotels are family-run by the Gurung community. The locals here are engaged in farming and tourism, providing trekkers an authentic Nepalese hospitality experience. From Ulleri, enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna South (7,219m) and Hiunchuli (6,441m) before continuing your trek.

Highlights

🚗 Private Vehicle Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul – Enjoy a comfortable 1.5-hour drive through scenic landscapes, terraced fields and charming villages.

🚶‍♂️ Trek through Birethanti, Hile, and Tikhedhunga. Walk past lush forests, traditional houses, and cascading waterfalls, experiencing Nepal’s authentic rural beauty.

⛰️ Uphill Climb to Ulleri – Climb 3,200 stone steps for a challenging but rewarding hike with beautiful views of the Himalayas.

🏡 Stay Options in Tikhedhunga or Ulleri:

✔️ Tikhedhunga (1,540m) – A good place to stay if you prefer a shorter trekking day.

✔️ Ulleri (1,900m) – A Gurung village with family-run lodges and stunning Himalayan views, ideal for breaking up the long trek to Ghorepani.

📌 Alternative Stay Option: If you prefer a shorter trekking day, stay in Tikhedhunga instead of Ulleri and continue your journey the next morning.

Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860m / 9,383ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours

Today, after breakfast, we begin our acclimatization day by exploring the beautiful town of Namche Bazaar. Although it's a rest day, we remain active to help our bodies adjust to the higher altitude. Next, we visit the Namche viewpoint, where you can catch your first glimpse of Everest and breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. We continue the hike to the Everest View Hotel, 3,880 meters above sea level. This hotel offers the best panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks.  Everest View Hotel is an excellent place to take photos and enjoy a warm drink while you admire the Himalayan mountains. 

This acclimatization day lets you relax while enjoying light trekking and breathtaking views. We recommend returning to your tea house by late afternoon to rest for the days ahead. 

Highlights: 

• Visit to the Sherpa Cultural Museum 

• Hike to the highest airport in Nepal, Syangboche 

• Panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other peaks from the Everest View Hotel 

• Explore Namche Bazaar with its cafes, shops, and unique culture 

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• Arrival at the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar 

Hike up to Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210m / 10,531ft) & trek to Chuile (2,710m / 8,891ft) – Duration: 6-7 hours

Today, after an early breakfast, we will leave Namche Bazaar and begin our trek towards Tengboche. The trail starts with a short 15-minute climb. After this, we will trek on what is known as a 'Nepali flat' section, a combination of gentle ups and downs that feel relatively even compared to the steep ascents of the region. This stretch provides breathtaking views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse as we walk through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests. 

We will descend towards the Dudh Koshi River and stop for lunch at Phungi Thenga. On the way, we will see mani walls, prayer flags, and traditional water-powered prayer wheels, which add a spiritual feel to our journey.  

After lunch, we will continue our climb through a dense forest. Following a series of switchbacks, it takes about 2 to 3 hours to reach the entrance of Tengboche. When we reach Tengboche, we will see the impressive Tengboche Monastery, surrounded by the towering Himalayas. 

Once settled into the tea house, we will visit the monastery and, if fortunate, witness a prayer ceremony. As the day ends, we can enjoy the golden hues of the sunset over the snow-capped peaks before resting for the night. 

Highlights: 

• Scenic walk through rhododendron and pine forests 

• Multiple suspension bridge crossings over the Dudh Koshi River 

• Stunning panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse 

• Visit to the historic Tengboche Monastery 

• Opportunity to witness a Buddhist prayer ceremony 

• Spectacular sunset views over the Himalayas 

Trek from Chuile to Upper Sinuwa (2,360m / 7,743ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we begin our trek from Tengboche and descend through a beautiful forest of rhododendrons and conifers. We reach Deboche, a peaceful village, and then cross the Imja Khola on a suspension bridge. From here, we begin the steady climb to Pangboche, the highest permanent Sherpa village in the region. 

Enjoy breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Mount Everest along the way. We pass through stone-walled fields and alpine landscapes before arriving at Somare for a lunch break. After lunch, we continue toward Dingboche, trekking through scenic valleys with stunning mountain backdrops. 

From Somare, it takes about 2-3 hours to reach Dingboche. The first part is a relatively flat section, followed by a small bridge over the Imja River and a 30-minute climb. We then reach another Nepali flat section before arriving at Dingboche, surrounded by beautiful Mountains, crop fields, prayer flags, and a peaceful atmosphere. 

Due to its location, Dingboche is often sunny, making it ideal for relaxing and enjoying the weather. You can even dry your clothes in the sun! The village also has several bakery shops, not just one, where you can enjoy a warm snack or drink after your trek. We will stay in Dinboche for two nights to help our bodies adjust before we continue our journey to Everest Base Camp.   

Key Highlights: 

• Beautiful rhododendron and conifer forests 

• Scenic suspension bridge over the Imja Khola 

• Views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Mount Everest 

• Visit to Pangboche, the highest permanent Sherpa village 

• Lunch at Somare and continued trek to Dingboche 

• Acclimatization in Dingboche with stunning landscapes 

• Sunny weather in Dingboche is ideal for drying clothes 

• Visit multiple bakery shops in Dingboche for snacks and drinks 

• Fields with crops and colourful prayer flags in Dingboche 

Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,200m / 10,499ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours

Today is an important acclimatization day in Dingboche. It helps your body adjust to the higher altitude before you continue your trek. Dingboche is 4,410 meters (14,470 feet) and has sunny weather and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place for acclimatization. 

After a restful morning, we will hike to Nangkartshang Peak, which offers breathtaking views of several towering peaks. The hike lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours for the round trip, with the ascent reaching around 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). From the peak, you will get spectacular views of Island Peak, Taboche, Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Labuche. 

After the hike, we'll return to Dingboche village to rest. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing, exploring the village, or enjoying the sunshine. Stone-walled crop fields and prayer flags surround Dingboche, adding to its charm. You can also visit the local bakery shops for a warm drink or snack. 

Dingboche is also a common base for those planning to climb Island Peak, as many climbers use Chhukung as the starting point for their ascent. If you're not climbing, you can still enjoy the views of this famous peak from Dingboche, a highlight of the trek. 

Bring snacks or chocolate to keep your energy up during the hike. Chocolate is especially useful as you climb to higher altitudes. 

This acclimatization day in Dingboche is designed to help you adjust and prepare for the next stage of your trek. 

Highlights of Acclimatization Day: 

• 3 to 4-hour hike to Nangkartshang Peak for panoramic views 

• Views of Island Peak, Taboche, Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu, and Labuche 

• Explore Dingboche's stone-walled crop fields and prayer flags 

• Relax in the village and enjoy the sunny weather 

• Visit multiple bakery shops in Dingboche for snacks and drinks 

Trek from Deurali to ABC (4,120m / 13,517ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours

Today’s trek is shorter than others, offering a more relaxed journey as we make our way towards Lobuche, nestled at a higher elevation, providing us with an even closer view of the towering peaks around us. After a hearty breakfast, we begin with a slight 15-minute uphill climb before reaching the Nepali flat, where we will walk for the next 2 to 3 hours towards Thukla. 

Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Taboche, and Lobuche. These majestic mountains will accompany us throughout the day, offering stunning vistas as we trek. 

We will stop for lunch in Thukla to rest and eat before we continue our journey. After lunch, the trail gets steeper as we climb to Thukla Pass, which takes about one hour. Here, we will see the memorials of climbers who lost their lives trying to summit Mount Everest. The peaceful surroundings and beautiful views at the pass honour these brave souls. From the pass, we will take a short walk to Lobuche. There, we will settle into our tea house, rest, and Prepare for our final destination, a 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek. 

Highlights of the Day: 

• Majestic views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, Taboche, and Lobuche – Stunning panoramas of iconic peaks 

• Thukla Pass Memorials – A poignant tribute to fallen climbers on their quest to summit Everest 

• Nepali flat trail – Enjoy a comfortable trek with beautiful landscapes before the steep climb 

• Lunch in Thukla – A restful stop before tackling the challenging final stretch to Lobuche.       

Trek from ABC to Bamboo (2,400m / 7,874ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours

Today is one of the most exciting trek days as we approach Gorak Shep and then hike to the iconic Everest Base Camp. After an early breakfast in Lobuche, we begin our trek with a steady climb towards Gorak Shep, the last village before Everest Base Camp. The trail is relatively flat but can be challenging due to the altitude. 

As we ascend, we will pass through rugged terrain with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. The landscape is stark and beautiful, with rocky paths leading us to Gorak Shep, located at 5,160m (16,929ft). Gorak Shep is a popular rest stop for trekkers before their final push to Everest Base Camp. 

Once we arrive at Gorak Shep, we will have lunch and leave our bags at the tea house. From here, we will begin the final leg of our journey to Everest Base Camp. The hike takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and involves a challenging, rocky path with breathtaking sights of the Khumbu Glacier, Pumori, Nuptse, and Lhotse. 

Once you arrive at Everest Base Camp, Take a moment to enjoy the amazing feeling of being at the base of the highest mountain in the world. The 360-degree view of the mountains, the large glaciers around Base Camp, and the Khumbu Icefall are truly memorable. 

After spending some time at Base Camp, we will retrace our steps back to Gorak Shep to rest and recover for the night. It’s a long but rewarding day, and we’ll settle into our tea house for the evening. 

Highlights of the Day: 

• Trekking to Gorak Shep – Scenic route with stunning views of surrounding peaks 

• Lunch in Gorak Shep – Rest and enjoy a meal before the final ascent to Base Camp 

• Hike to Everest Base Camp – Reach the legendary Base Camp, an iconic destination for trekkers 

• Khumbu Glacier Views – Incredible sight of one of the largest glaciers in the Everest region 

• Pumori, Nuptse, and Lhotse Views – Majestic peaks surrounding Everest Base Camp 

• Standing at Everest Base Camp – An unforgettable moment at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain 

• Return to Gorak Shep – A long day of adventure, capped with a well-deserved rest at Gorak Shep 

Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (Hot Spring) (1,760m / 5,774ft) via Chhomrong – Duration: 5-6 hours

Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul & drive to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) – Duration: 6-7 hours

After a restful night in Pheriche, we begin our trek back towards Namche Bazaar, following the same route we took on the way up. 

We ascend from Pheriche to Tengboche, which takes around 2 hours. From Tengboche, we continue the descent to Phunki Tenga, which takes about 1.5 hours. 

Then, we begin the climb to Kakyjoma, which takes around 1.5 hours. After reaching Kakyjoma, the trail levels off, and we continue along a Nepali flat route until we reach Namche Bazaar. The final ascent from Phunki Tenga to Namche is steep, but the stunning views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nupla make it rewarding. 

Once we arrive in Namche Bazaar, you can enjoy its comfort rooms, cozy bars, cafes, and even places for a small party to relax after the hike. 

Highlights of the Day: 

• Same Route Back – Retrace the path through Pheriche, Tengboche, Phunki Tenga, and Imja Khola Valley 

• Scenic Descent and Ascent – Enjoy views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nupla 

• Suspension Bridges and traditional Sherpa villages 

• Namche Bazaar – Relax in a lively town with comfort rooms, bars, cafes, and a place to unwind after the trek 

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (820m / 2,690ft) – Duration: 6-7 hours

On the final day of our trek, we began our descent from Namche Bazaar towards Lukla, where we started our journey. This day’s trek is relatively easier than the previous days as we descend through beautiful forests, cross suspension bridges, and pass by charming Sherpa villages. 

We begin by descending from Namche Bazaar to Manjo, a small village. From there, we continue towards Phakding, passing through scenic landscapes and crossing the iconic Hilary Bridge. The descent to Phakding takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, and we’ll take a break here for lunch and rest. 

After lunch, we continue our trek towards Lukla, which takes about three more hours. The route is pleasant as we pass through more Sherpa villages and cross the Dudh Koshi River. 

As we approach Lukla, you’ll feel accomplished after completing the 12-14-day trek to Everest Base Camp. Upon arrival, take some time to rest and celebrate the completion of your adventure journey with your fellow trekkers, guide, and porter. 

Highlights of the Day: 

• Descending through beautiful forests 

• Crossing the iconic Hilary Bridge 

• Passing through Manjo and Phakding village

• Crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River 

• Arriving at Lukla, the starting and ending point of your trek 

• Celebrating your achievement after completing the Everest Base Camp trek 

International departure from Kathmandu Airport

On this day, we will take a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, marking the end of our incredible Everest Base Camp trek. The flight is usually scheduled in the morning and takes approximately 30 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayan range. 

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, Next Trip Nepal will organize a farewell dinner and celebration party in Thamel, where you can relax, share your experiences, and celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your fellow trekkers and guides. 

This is also a great time to explore Kathmandu, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy the local culture before departure. 

Highlights of the Day: 

• 30-minute scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu 

• Aerial views of the Himalayas 

• Arrival in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal 

• Farewell dinner and celebration party organized by Next Trip Nepal in Thamel 

• Time to relax and reflect on your Everest Base Camp adventure 

Departure from Kathmandu Airport.

Day 14: Departure 

After an unforgettable adventure, it's time to say goodbye. Depending on your flight schedule, you'll be transferred by private car to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your departure. 

Take one last moment to reflect on the memories you've created, the breathtaking views you've witnessed, and the friendships you've built during your hassle-free Everest Base Camp trek. We hope your journey with Next Trip Nepal has been extraordinary, and we look forward to welcoming you back for future adventures in the Himalayas. 

Highlights of the Day: 

• Private car transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport 

• Reflecting on your hassle-free Everest Base Camp trek