luxury abc trek 10 days
Snow-Covered Himalayan Glacier and Mountain Peak
Trekkers Standing Among Prayer Flags with Snowy Himalayan Mountains
Trekkers Walking Through a Himalayan Mountain Trail with Snow-Capped Peaks
luxury abc trek 10 days
Snow-Covered Himalayan Glacier and Mountain Peak
Trekkers Standing Among Prayer Flags with Snowy Himalayan Mountains
Trekkers Walking Through a Himalayan Mountain Trail with Snow-Capped Peaks

Luxury ABC Trek- 10 days

Tour Info

trip code

E-013

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmadu

Accommodations

Lodge/ Tea House

Max Altitude

4130m

Duration

10 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Moderate

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

March, April, October, November

Overview

This Luxury ABC Trek is one of the unique journeys that lets you experience adventure, scenic beauty, cultural richness and comfort fully. You can have a great experience in the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna range in a more comfortable way. In this trip, we try to make your experience more memorable by taking every moment into account instead of focusing only on the destination. During the journey, we try to explore every single location while moving from one point to another and even after reaching the destination, so that you can enjoy the journey and experience the beauty of the surroundings along the way. In this way, travelers can appreciate the smaller details, calm moments, and the changes in atmosphere of a journey into the Himalayas.

The Luxury ABC Trek offers great chances for interaction with the local people and their culture as well as to feel the hospitality of the region. This combination makes the journey suitable for those who would like to undertake a more luxurious trekking experience.

As this journey is designed for travelers who appreciate both exploration and convenience, you can enjoy a well-organized trekking experience with comfortable arrangements and plenty of opportunities to explore along the way. This trek provides you with a memorable experience with the unique charm and hospitality of Nepal.

Highlights

  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley.
  • Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
  • Visit the popular places in Pokhara. 
  • Have a scenic road trip from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda.
  • Trek through bamboo, rhododendron and oak forests.
  • Experience the beauty of waterfalls, rivers and mountains during the trek.
  • Cross the high suspension bridges at Chhomrong.
  • Trek through the valley of Modi Khola and the picturesque scenery.
  • Reach the Annapurna base camp (ABC)
  • Experience the scenic beauty of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli and Gangapurna from the Annapurna Base Camp.
  • Experience the exciting helicopter ride from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara.
  • Explore some more sites in Pokhara.
  • Have a scenic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Your luxury Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) journey begins after you arrive at TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport), Kathmandu. Here, our representatives warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. At the hotel, you take some well-deserved rest and then seek the opportunity to explore the nearby surroundings. In the evening, you are provided with a traditional Nepali dinner which includes Bhat (rice), dal (lentils), green vegetables and other dishes. After that, you stay overnight in the premium room.

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 meters (Kathmandu)
  • Travel Distance: 6 to 8 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel
  • Meal: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: A full-day guided tour and sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley

After a hearty breakfast at your premium hotel, you begin a full-day guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley with your professional local guide in a private vehicle. You visit many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While visiting these heritage sites, you can purchase souvenirs and make memories. Below are some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites you visit. 

Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in Nepal, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is situated on the bank of Bagmati River. The Pashupatinath Temple is popular because of its significance in religion, old structures, and traditional rites.

Patan Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square is an ancient palace complex that is popular for its wonderful Newari architecture, temples, courtyards and metal carvings. The site is situated in the middle of Lalitpur. It provides insight into the art and culture of Lalitpur Valley.

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Swayambhunath is an ancient Buddhist stupa located on a hilltop of the Kathmandu Valley. This stupa is perched in the western direction of the Kathmandu Valley. It is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, colorful prayer flags, Buddha's eyes, panoramic views of the Kathmandu valley and the many monkeys found around the temple.

Boudhanath Stupa 

Boudhanath is one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in the world. It serves as the major hub of Tibetan Buddhist culture and pilgrimage. This stupa is located on the eastern side of Kathmandu city. The Bouddhanath Stupa is surrounded by many beautiful monasteries, prayer wheels, and traditional shops. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,450 meters
  • Travel Distance: 25 to 30 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Fly to Pokhara and sightseeing Tour in Pokhara

In the early morning, you are provided with a leisurely breakfast. After that, you pack your belongings and arrive at TIA for a short but picturesque flight to Pokhara. We help you complete all the formalities involved in the process of boarding. After that, you witness breathtaking views of green hills, terraced fields, villages, and Himalayas like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) while on a flight. Then, you reach the destination after a few minutes. There, you take some rest and start your sightseeing tour of the beautiful city with our guide. You can explore the tranquil Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls along with the Gupteshwar Cave. In the evening, you might visit Sarangkot, which is a very famous viewpoint providing amazing views of the sunset and the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After that, you return to your hotel for an overnight stay. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,450 meters
  • Flight hours: 25 to 30 minutes
  • Travel Distance: 215 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Drive to Jhinu Danda, Trek to Chhomrong

Following a hearty breakfast, you depart from the hotel and take a picturesque drive to Jhinu Danda. You drive while crossing the Hari Chowk, Nayapul, Birethanti, Siwai, and Samrong/Matque before arriving at Jhinu Danda. At Birethanti, the vehicle stops for a while to register your conservation/TIMS permits. While you are on a drive, you witness terraced fields, Modi Khola, local villages and far-off sights of verdant slopes rising upward toward the massive summits. After you arrive at Jhinu Danda, you take some rest and begin your trekking journey. From Jhinu Danda, you trek towards Chhomrong village. Initially, you steeply descend towards the Modi Khola. Following this, you cross this Khola via the high suspension bridge (Jhinu Danda Suspension Bridge/Samrong Khola Bridge). Once you cross this bridge, you need to ascend steeply through thousands of stone steps before arriving at the Gurung village called Chhomrong. At this place, you stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 2,170 meters
  • Trek Distance: 3 to 4 Kilometers
  • Trek Hours: 2 to 3 hours
  • Travel Distance: 27 to 40 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 3 to 5 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Trek to Himalayas

After a delicious breakfast, you continue your trek by descending through a series of steep stone steps toward the Chhomrong Khola. You cross this river via a high suspension bridge and continue your trek toward Sinuwa. The path winds through a peaceful and dense forest of bamboo, rhododendron, and oak to arrive at Bamboo village. From this village, you ascend alongside the roaring Modi Khola through a dramatic gorge toward Dovan. As you trek further, you finally move towards Himalaya village by going through some alpine landscapes and those areas which might be avalanche-prone. On trekking from Chhomrong to Himalaya village, you get some great views of dense forest, waterfalls, rivers, Modi Khola canyon, and the mighty mountains of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Along with enjoying these views, you reach Himalaya village, where you spend your night.

  • Max Elevation: 2,890 meters
  • Trek Distance: 10 to 12 kilometers
  • Trek Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

On this day, you finally arrive at Annapurna Base Camp via crossing Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). After an early breakfast, you start trekking towards Deurali through the Modi Khola valley. As you trek further and go up higher, the thick forests vanish gradually and give way to rocky moraine terrain, offering some breathtaking views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). As you move further along the Modi Khola, you walk underneath the Bagar Ridge to reach the alpine environment that takes you to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. On the way, you get to see the Modi Khola Gorge, glaciers, moraines, and some of the awe-inspiring Himalayan mountains. After a few hours, you arrive at MBC. On arriving at MBC, you get the chance to see the stunning view of the twin-peaked Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain straight in front of you. You can also see other mountains from there like Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.

After enjoying some time amidst the beautiful environment at MBC, you further trek through an extensive and open glacial valley that lies beyond the treeline. Along the way, you get beautiful scenery like colorful prayer flags, rough glacial formations, and some of the beautiful mountains like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. Finally after trekking for several hours, you reach Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). Here, you stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp)
  • Travel Distance: 9 kilometers 
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Fly back to Pokhara

Today,  you take the helicopter and head back to Pokhara. After enjoying the amazing views of the majestic peaks of the Himalayas like Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna, you head back to your tea house, pack up your belongings and take the helicopter. Now, you return back to Kathmandu while witnessing aerial views of traditional mountain villages, deep river gorges, sparkling lakes of Pokhara valley, lush forests, terraced hillsides and majestic mountains like Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). After a few minutes, you arrive at Pokhara. Upon arriving here, you check into your room and relax for the whole day. Otherwise, you can simply explore the peaceful lakeside area at your leisure. After that, you spend your night. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp)
  • Flight Hours: 15 to 30 minutes
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Exploration day in Pokhara

This day is dedicated to exploring the popular attractions of Pokhara. After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, you begin your sightseeing tour along with an experienced guide in a private vehicle.  On this day, you explore those places which were not explored earlier. Today, you explore places such as Seti Gorge, Bat Cave, International Mountain Museum, Bindabasini Temple, Mahendra Cave, Pokhara Old Bazaar, Tal Barahi Temple, and Matepani Gumba. If you have time, you can explore all of these places; otherwise, you only visit the selected places. These places offer a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, history, and local experiences. At night, you return to your hotel and spend the night. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp)
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9: Fly to Kathmandu

In the early morning, you receive your breakfast. After that,  you pack your luggage and prepare yourself for the assistance by the driver for the airport drop-up service. You have a last glimpse of the picturesque city of Pokhara before taking the flight to the city of Kathmandu. During the flight journey, you have an opportunity to enjoy the view of rivers, gorges, green hills, terraces, and snow-capped peaks such as the mountain of Manaslu and other mountain ranges. After a few minutes, you reach Kathmandu, where you take a rest, explore vibrant streets and spend a comfortable night.

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 meters (Kathmandu)
  • Flight Hours: 25 to 30 minutes
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10: Final Departure

Today, your ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) journey ends. Following breakfast, you pack your belongings, meet all the representatives and head towards the Tribhuvan International Airport to return to your home country. Our representatives help in completing all the boarding formalities at the airport. After that, you reflect on this ABC journey, share some memories and cherish the unforgettable experiences you made during the journey. After that, you board the flight while carrying wonderful memories of Nepal and return to your home country. 

  • Meals: Breakfast

What's included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle in Kathmandu.
  • Comfortable accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara as mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in tea houses/lodges during the trekking period.
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
  • Scenic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Helicopter flight from the Annapurna region back to Pokhara.
  • Experienced local guide for Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara sightseeing.
  • Private vehicle for sightseeing as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  • TIMS documentation/permit.
  • Welcome Nepali dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Airport and flight assistance from our representatives.

What's excluded

  • International airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Nepal tourist visa fee.
  • Travel insurance including the cost of emergency medical attention and helicopter evacuation.
  • Personal expenses including laundry, telephone calls and internet access.
  • Personal trekking gear.
  • Beverages and snacks.
  • Personal medication and medical expenses.
  • Tips for guides, drivers, porters and other personnel.
  • Shopping and any other purchase made for personal use.
  • Anything else not specified in the itinerary.
  • Additional costs resulting from emergencies like delayed flights, cancellation of flights, bad weather, or natural calamities.

Packing List

Proper packing is essential for a comfortable and successful Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Since the trek involves changing weather, varied terrain, and high-altitude conditions, you should pack several well-tested gear. Packing the gears smartly helps you stay comfortable, prepared, and safe throughout the trek. Below is a packing list you should have while performing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. 

Travel Clothing

Headwear

  • Balaclava
  • Brimmed Hat or Sun Cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Bandana or Headscarf
  • Knit Hat (preferably fleece or wool)
  • Buff / Neck Warmer / Neck Gaiter

Bodywear – Torso

  • Fleece Pullover or Jacket
  • Sports Bra
  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Soft Jacket (Fleece or Soft Shell)
  • Down Jacket (Puffer Jacket)
  • Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt (for lower-altitude trekking)
  • Insulated Jacket (Synthetic or Down)
  • Lightweight Thermal Tops

Handwear

  • Lightweight Gloves (Wool or Fleece)
  • Heavyweight Gloves or Mittens

Bodywear – Lower Body

  • Hiking Shorts (Optional for summer trekking)
  • Underwear
  • Light Thermal Trousers
  • Hiking Pants
  • Fleece Pants

Footwear

  • Trekking Sandals
  • Cotton Socks (Optional)
  • Trekking Boots
  • Gaiters (Optional)
  • Hiking Socks
  • Running Shoes or Trainers (Optional)

Trekking Equipment, Gears & Accessories

  • Thermos
  • Trekking Poles
  • Sleeping Bag Liner (Optional)
  • Garbage Bag
  • Trekking Backpack
  • Crampons (Optional)
  • Water Bottle
  • Book / Diary / Games
  • Raincoat
  • Duffel Bag (90L)
  • Navigation Equipment
  • Head Torch with Extra Batteries
  • Face Mask
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Daypack Cover (Optional)
  • Binoculars (Optional)

First Aid and Medicines

  • Lip Balm
  • Bandages
  • Oral Rehydration Sachets
  • Foot Powder
  • Sunscreen Cream
  • Eye Drops
  • Painkillers
  • Personal Prescription Medicines
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Cough Lozenges
  • Plasters
  • Water Purification Tablets or Water Filter
  • Antidiarrheals
  • Skin Blister Repair Kit
  • Antibiotics
  • Altitude Sickness Medicine

Toiletries and Personal Hygiene

  • Dry Shampoo
  • Toothpaste
  • Face Flannel
  • Nail Brush & Clippers
  • Quick-drying Towel
  • Hair Brush
    Toilet Paper
  • Toothbrush
  • Multi-purpose Soap
  • Hand & Face Moisturizing Cream
  • Small Bar of Soap or Liquid Soap

Miscellaneous Items

  • Flask
  • Camera (Optional)
  • Ear Plugs
  • Universal Adapter
  • Swiss Knife (Optional)
  • Power Bank
  • Stuff Sacks / Dry Bags or Ziploc Bags (Optional)
  • Pad Locks
  • Electrolytes (Powder or Tablets)
  • Umbrella
  • Multi-tool

Specific Gears for Women

Women trekkers may benefit from carrying a few additional items to ensure greater comfort, hygiene, and convenience throughout the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Below are some of the specific gear items women should have while performing the ABC trek. 
Fleece Headband

  • Sanitary Pads
  • Travel-size Shampoo
  • Sports Bra
  • Undergarments
  • Skincare Items (Moisturizer, Skin Cleanser, and Sunscreen)
  • Tampon
  • Tight Leggings

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered a moderate trek. Completing this ABC trek involves walking for several hours each day with steep ascents and descents along varied mountain terrain. 

Do I need previous trekking experience for the ABC Trek?

No, there is no need of previous trekking experience for the ABC Trek. However, you must be reasonably fit and ready to walk for 5 to 6 hours each day.

Is altitude sickness a concern during the ABC Trek?

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern in the ABC Trek because the trek takes you to above 4,000 meters and you may suffer from headaches, dizziness, nausea, tiredness, and shortness of breath. To overcome these problems, you walk steadily, drink enough water, and follow the advice of your guide.

How should I prepare physically for the ABC Trek?

You can prepare yourself for the ABC Trek through walking, hiking, stair climbing, and doing cardiovascular exercises. Through this, you can strengthen your legs and increase the endurance, making the trek comfortable.

Why is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek unique?

Annapurna Base Camp Trek has unique features such as diverse terrains, traditional settlements, forests, mountain views, and the Annapurna range itself. All these features make the Annapurna Base Camp Trek unique.

Can beginners complete the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Yes, a beginner can complete this trek through good preparation and physical fitness. By performing regular walking, hiking, and cardiovascular exercises before the trek, you can help build endurance, which can make this trek comfortable for you. 

What kind of food is available during the trek?

As you stay in the tea houses/lodges throughout the trek except in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you would get freshly prepared gourmet meals combining upgraded local Nepalese delicacies, Tibetan staples, and Western fusion cuisine. 

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