The ABC trek itinerary you choose can make or break your Annapurna Base Camp experience. With options ranging from an intense 3-day dash to a leisurely 10-day journey via Poon Hill, selecting the right duration depends on your fitness level, available time, and trekking goals.
This comprehensive guide covers every Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary option available in 2025—from ultra-short routes for experienced trekkers to beginner-friendly schedules that allow proper acclimatization. We've included something no other guide provides: complete cost breakdowns for both international tourists and Nepali trekkers.
Whether you're planning your first Himalayan adventure or comparing ABC to Everest Base Camp, this guide delivers the detailed, day-by-day information you need to plan confidently.
Quick Answer: Which ABC Itinerary Is Right for You?
Not sure which duration to choose? Here's a quick decision guide:
Choose 3-4 Days If:
- You're an experienced trekker with excellent fitness
- You've recently completed high-altitude treks
- Time is extremely limited
- You're comfortable with 8-10 hour trekking days
Choose 5-6 Days If:
- You have moderate-to-good fitness
- You want the classic ABC experience without extras
- You prefer a balanced pace with reasonable daily distances
- This is your second or third Himalayan trek
Choose 7-10 Days If:
- You're a beginner or first-time high-altitude trekker
- You want proper acclimatization time
- You'd like to add Poon Hill or extra exploration days
- Photography and cultural immersion matter to you
ABC Trek 3-Day Itinerary (Experienced Trekkers Only)
The ABC trek itinerary 3 days option is the most demanding route, suitable only for extremely fit trekkers with recent high-altitude experience. This itinerary requires 8-10 hours of trekking daily with significant altitude gains.
Day 1: Pokhara → Jhinu Danda (1,780m)
- Transport: 2-hour drive to Kimche/Nayapul
- Trek: 6-7 hours via Ghandruk
- Altitude gain: ~1,000m
- Difficulty: Moderate-Hard
Day 2: Jhinu Danda → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) → MBC (3,700m)
- Trek: 9-10 hours
- Altitude gain: 2,350m (then descend 430m)
- Key stops: Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, MBC, ABC
- Difficulty: Extremely Hard
Day 3: MBC → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara
- Trek: 7-8 hours descent to Jhinu
- Transport: 2-hour drive to Pokhara
- Altitude loss: ~1,920m
- Difficulty: Hard (knee strain on descent)
⚠️ Important Warnings for 3-Day ABC Trek:
- Altitude sickness risk is very high
- No acclimatization time built in
- Only attempt if you've trekked above 4,000m within the past month
- Not recommended for first-time Himalayan trekkers
- Helicopter evacuation insurance is mandatory
3-Day ABC Trek Cost:
- Guided: $350-500
- Independent: $200-300
ABC Trek 4-Day Itinerary
The ABC trek itinerary 4 days provides slightly more breathing room while still maintaining an aggressive pace. Better suited for fit trekkers who want efficiency without the extreme demands of the 3-day option.
Day 1: Pokhara → Chhomrong (2,170m)
- Transport: 2-hour drive to Kimche
- Trek: 5-6 hours
- Route: Kimche → Ghandruk → Chhomrong
- Altitude gain: ~1,200m
Day 2: Chhomrong → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
- Trek: 7-8 hours
- Route: Sinuwa → Bamboo → Dovan → Himalaya → Deurali → MBC
- Altitude gain: 1,530m
- Key challenge: Famous stone steps at Chhomrong (3,200+ steps)
Day 3: MBC → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) → Bamboo (2,310m)
- Trek: 8-9 hours
- Morning: Sunrise at ABC (1.5-hour ascent from MBC)
- Descent: ABC → MBC → Deurali → Bamboo
- Altitude change: +430m then -1,820m
Day 4: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara
- Trek: 4-5 hours to Jhinu
- Optional: Hot springs at Jhinu Danda
- Transport: 2-hour drive to Pokhara
4-Day ABC Trek Cost:
- Guided: $400-550
- Independent: $250-350
ABC Trek 5-Day Itinerary (Most Popular Short Option)
The ABC trek itinerary 5 days is the most popular choice for trekkers seeking the classic Annapurna Base Camp experience without extended time commitment. This duration offers a good balance between challenge and enjoyment.
Day 1: Pokhara → Ghandruk (1,940m)
- Transport: 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul
- Trek: 4-5 hours
- Highlights: Traditional Gurung village, first mountain views
- Altitude gain: ~900m
Day 2: Ghandruk → Chhomrong → Bamboo (2,310m)
- Trek: 6-7 hours
- Route: Cross Kimrong Khola, ascend to Chhomrong, descend to Sinuwa, continue to Bamboo
- Key challenge: 3,200+ stone steps at Chhomrong
- Altitude: Net gain ~370m (but significant ups and downs)
Day 3: Bamboo → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
- Trek: 5-6 hours
- Route: Dovan → Himalaya → Deurali → MBC
- Altitude gain: 1,390m
- Terrain: Rhododendron forest to alpine scrubland
Day 4: MBC → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) → Bamboo (2,310m)
- Trek: 7-8 hours total
- Morning: 1.5-hour sunrise trek to ABC
- Descent: Back to Bamboo via same route
- Altitude change: +430m then -1,820m
Views at ABC include:
- Annapurna I (8,091m)
- Annapurna South
- Hiunchuli
- Gangapurna
- Machhapuchhre
Day 5: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara
- Trek: 4-5 hours
- Highlight: Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
- Transport: 2-hour drive back to Pokhara
Why 5 Days Works Well:
- Enough time for one acclimatization night at MBC
- Covers all essential ABC highlights
- Manageable daily distances (5-7 hours average)
- Fits within a typical one-week Nepal visit
5-Day ABC Trek Cost:
- Guided: $450-650
- Independent: $300-400
Ready to book? Please view our complete Annapurna Base Camp Trek package, which includes detailed information and fixed departure dates.
ABC Trek 6-Day Itinerary
The ABC trek itinerary 6 days adds valuable buffer time, reducing daily distances and providing better acclimatization. Recommended for those who prefer a less rushed experience.
Day 1: Pokhara → Ghandruk (1,940m)
- Trek: 4-5 hours from Nayapul
- Highlights: Gurung culture, sunset views
Day 2: Ghandruk → Chhomrong (2,170m)
- Trek: 4-5 hours
- Highlights: Cross Kimrong Khola valley
Day 3: Chhomrong → Dovan (2,600m)
- Trek: 5-6 hours
- Route: Sinuwa → Bamboo → Dovan
- Terrain: Dense bamboo and rhododendron forest
Day 4: Dovan → Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
- Trek: 4-5 hours
- Altitude gain: 1,100m
- Afternoon for acclimatization walks
Day 5: MBC → ABC (4,130m) → Bamboo (2,310m)
- Morning: Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp
- Descent: Via Deurali to Bamboo
- Long day but mostly downhill
Day 6: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara
- Trek: 4-5 hours
- Hot springs, then drive to Pokhara
6-Day ABC Trek Cost:
- Guided: $500-700
- Independent: $350-450
ABC Trek 7-Day Itinerary (Recommended for Beginners)
The ABC trek itinerary 7 days is the ideal choice for first-time Himalayan trekkers. This duration allows proper acclimatization, comfortable daily distances, and time to truly absorb the experience.
Day 1: Pokhara → Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
- Transport: 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul
- Trek: 3-4 hours
- Gentle introduction day
Day 2: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani (2,860m)
- Trek: 5-6 hours
- Challenge: 3,300 stone steps to Ulleri
- Reward: Entering rhododendron forest zone
Day 3: Ghorepani → Chhomrong (2,170m)
- Optional: Pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for sunrise
- Trek: 6-7 hours to Chhomrong
- Views: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre
If you only have 3-4 days, the standalone Poon Hill Trek offers this incredible sunrise without the full ABC commitment.
Day 4: Chhomrong → Dovan (2,600m)
- Trek: 5-6 hours
- Enter the Annapurna Sanctuary corridor
Day 5: Dovan → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
- Trek: 6-7 hours
- Route: Himalaya → Deurali → MBC → ABC
- Arrive afternoon for sunset views
Day 6: ABC → Bamboo (2,310m)
- Morning: Second sunrise at ABC (optional)
- Trek: 5-6 hours descent
- Altitude loss: 1,820m
Day 7: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara
- Trek: 4-5 hours
- Hot springs celebration
- Drive back to Pokhara
Why 7 Days Is Best for Beginners:
- Two nights for acclimatization (Ghorepani at 2,860m, ABC at 4,130m)
- Shorter daily distances (4-6 hours average)
- Optional Poon Hill sunrise adds incredible value
- Less physical strain allows you to enjoy the journey
7-Day ABC Trek Cost:
- Guided: $600-850
- Independent: $400-550
ABC Trek 10-Day Itinerary via Poon Hill
The ABC trek itinerary 10 days combines two iconic treks—Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp—into one comprehensive journey. This is the ultimate Annapurna region experience.
Days 1-4: Poon Hill Circuit
- Day 1: Pokhara → Tikhedhunga
- Day 2: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani
- Day 3: Poon Hill sunrise → Tadapani
- Day 4: Tadapani → Chhomrong
Days 5-10: ABC Circuit
- Day 5: Chhomrong → Dovan
- Day 6: Dovan → MBC
- Day 7: MBC → ABC → MBC (acclimatization day)
- Day 8: MBC → Bamboo
- Day 9: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda
- Day 10: Jhinu → Nayapul → Pokhara
What the 10-Day Itinerary Offers:
- Poon Hill sunrise (one of Nepal's most famous viewpoints)
- Proper acclimatization with gradual altitude gain
- Full day at ABC for exploration and photography
- Rhododendron forests (spectacular March-April)
- Multiple Gurung village experiences
- Hot springs at Jhinu Danda
10-Day ABC Trek Cost:
- Guided: $850-1,200
- Independent: $550-750
North ABC Trek Itinerary (Alternative Route)
The North Annapurna Base Camp trek opened in June 2023, offering a completely different approach to the Annapurna massif. This route follows the historic path of Maurice Herzog, who made the first ascent of an 8,000m peak in 1950.
North ABC Trek 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Pokhara → Tatopani → Miristi Khola Camp
- Drive: 4-5 hours to Tatopani
- Trek: 3-4 hours to camp
- Altitude: 2,200m
Day 2: Miristi Khola → North Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
- Trek: 6-7 hours
- Altitude gain: ~1,900m
- Camping required (no teahouses)
Day 3: North ABC → Tatopani → Pokhara
- Trek: 5-6 hours descent
- Drive: 4-5 hours to Pokhara
Key Differences: North vs South ABC
North ABC Route:
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Crowds: Very few trekkers
- Accommodation: Camping only
- Views: North face of Annapurna I
- Difficulty: Hard (camping, route-finding)
- Cost: Higher (camping gear required)
- Permits: ACAP + Special permit
South ABC Route (Classic):
- Duration: 5-10 days
- Crowds: Moderate to high
- Accommodation: Teahouses throughout
- Views: Annapurna Sanctuary panorama
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Cost: Lower (teahouse system)
- Permits: ACAP + TIMS
North ABC Trek Cost:
- Guided with camping gear: $800-1,200
ABC Trek Cost Breakdown 2025
Understanding the complete ABC trek cost helps you budget accurately. Here's the most detailed breakdown available:
Cost for International Tourists (USD)
Permit Fees:
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): $30 (NPR 3,000)
- TIMS Card: $20 (NPR 2,000)
- Total permits: $50
Permit fees verified via Nepal Tourism Board — official rates may be updated annually.
Daily Expenses (Independent Trekking):
- Accommodation: $5-15/night
- Meals (3 per day): $20-35/day
- Guide (mandatory): $25-35/day
- Porter (optional): $20-28/day
- Miscellaneous: $5-10/day
Package Costs by Duration
5-Day ABC Trek:
- Budget: $400-500
- Standard: $550-700
- Premium: $800-1,000
7-Day ABC Trek:
- Budget: $550-650
- Standard: $700-900
- Premium: $1,000-1,300
10-Day ABC Trek:
- Budget: $700-850
- Standard: $900-1,200
- Premium: $1,300-1,800
ABC Trek Cost for Nepali Citizens (NPR)
This section addresses the commonly asked question: "How much does ABC trekking cost for Nepali?"
Nepali trekkers enjoy significantly reduced permit fees and can trek without mandatory guides.The Annapurna Conservation Area Project manages trail maintenance and conservation efforts funded by these permits.
Permits for Nepalis:
- ACAP: NPR 100-300 (vs NPR 3,000 for foreigners)
- TIMS: Free (not required for Nepali citizens)
- Total permits: NPR 100-300 (~$1-2)
Daily Expenses (Independent Nepali Trekker):
- Accommodation: NPR 300-1,000/night
- Meals: NPR 1,200-2,000/day
- Porter (optional): NPR 2,000-2,500/day
- Miscellaneous: NPR 500-1,000/day
Total ABC Trek Cost for Nepali (5 Days Independent):
- Budget: NPR 15,000-20,000 (~$110-150)
- Comfortable: NPR 25,000-35,000 (~$185-260)
With Guide:
- Guide fee: NPR 3,000-4,000/day
- Total 5 days: NPR 35,000-50,000 (~$260-370)
How Difficult Is ABC Trek? Day-by-Day Breakdown
Many trekkers ask: "Is ABC trek for beginners?" and "How difficult is ABC?" Here's an honest, day-by-day difficulty assessment.
Overall Difficulty Rating: Moderate (Grade 2-3)
The ABC trek is suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness, but certain sections are genuinely challenging.
Easiest Sections:
- Nayapul to Tikhedhunga: Gentle riverside walking
- Bamboo to Dovan: Flat forest trail
- ABC exploration: Relatively flat at base camp
Moderate Sections:
- Ghandruk to Chhomrong: Rolling terrain with river crossing
- Dovan to Deurali: Steady uphill through forest
- MBC to ABC: Gradual incline, altitude is main challenge
Hardest Sections:
- Tikhedhunga to Ulleri: 3,300 continuous stone steps
- Chhomrong steps: 3,200+ steps descending then ascending
- Deurali to MBC: Steepest sustained climb, altitude effects begin
Fitness Requirements
You're Ready for ABC If You Can:
- Walk 10-15 km on hilly terrain in 5-6 hours
- Climb 50 floors of stairs without stopping
- Carry a 5-7 kg daypack for extended periods
- Handle consecutive days of physical activity
You Should Train More If:
- You get winded climbing 2-3 floors of stairs
- You haven't exercised regularly in the past 3 months
- You've never hiked more than 5 km at once
- You have knee or joint issues
Altitude Sickness Risk
ABC reaches 4,130m—high enough for altitude sickness to affect anyone.
Risk Zones on ABC Trek:
- Below 2,500m: Very low risk
- 2,500m-3,500m (Deurali): Mild symptoms possible
- 3,500m-4,130m (MBC to ABC): Moderate risk, acclimatization crucial
Prevention Tips:
- Choose 7+ day itinerary if first high-altitude trek
- Ascend slowly—no more than 500m sleeping altitude gain per day above 3,000m
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily)
- Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills
- Descend immediately if severe symptoms appear
ABC vs EBC Trek: Complete Comparison
One of the most common questions from trekkers planning Nepal trips: "Which is better, EBC or ABC?" Here's a comprehensive comparison.
ABC Trek Advantages:
- Duration: 5-10 days (shorter commitment)
- Max altitude: 4,130m (lower, less AMS risk)
- Total distance: 70-115 km (more manageable)
- Difficulty: Moderate (beginner-friendly)
- Cost: $500-900 guided (more affordable)
- Permits: $50 total (cheaper)
- Crowds: Moderate (less congested)
- Flight required: No (no Lukla risk)
- Bonus: Hot springs at Jhinu Danda
EBC Trek Advantages:
- Duration: 12-16 days (more immersive)
- Max altitude: 5,364m (true high-altitude experience)
- Total distance: 130 km (longer adventure)
- Difficulty: Moderate-Hard (more challenging)
- Cost: $1,200-2,000 guided (includes flights)
- Teahouse quality: Excellent (well-developed)
- Best views: Everest close-up (iconic)
- Culture: Sherpa villages (unique heritage)
Choose ABC Trek If:
- You have limited time (under 2 weeks)
- You're a first-time high-altitude trekker
- You want to avoid expensive Lukla flights
- You prefer lower maximum altitude
- Budget is a primary concern
- You want hot springs at the end
Choose EBC Trek If:
- You want to see Mount Everest up close
- You have 2+ weeks available
- You're comfortable with higher altitude (5,364m)
- You want the "bucket list" Everest experience
- You enjoy longer, more immersive treks
- Sherpa culture particularly interests you
Even shorter on time? Consider the Mardi Himal Trek—a stunning 4-5 day alternative in the same Annapurna region with equally spectacular views.
The Honest Truth
Both treks are exceptional. ABC offers better value for time and money, while EBC delivers the iconic Everest experience. Many trekkers eventually do both—ABC first (as preparation), then EBC.
Best Time for ABC Trek
October-November (Peak Season):
- Weather: Clear skies, stable conditions
- Temperature: 10-20°C days, 0-10°C nights at ABC
- Crowds: Highest of the year
- Views: Best visibility
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March-May (Spring Season):
- Weather: Warming, occasional afternoon clouds
- Special: Rhododendron blooms (March-April)
- Crowds: Moderate-high
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
December-February (Winter):
- Weather: Cold but clear
- Temperature: -10 to -20°C at ABC
- Crowds: Very low
- Challenge: Snow possible above MBC
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
June-September (Monsoon):
- Weather: Heavy rain, leeches, landslides
- Views: Mostly obscured
- Rating: ⭐ (Not recommended)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ABC trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ABC trek is suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness. The trek is rated "moderate" difficulty with well-marked trails and teahouse accommodation throughout. No technical climbing skills are required. However, beginners should choose a 7-day or longer itinerary to allow proper acclimatization. You should be able to walk 5-6 hours daily on uneven terrain and climb the equivalent of 30-50 floors of stairs.
How difficult is ABC trek?
ABC trek is rated moderate difficulty (Grade 2-3). The most challenging sections are the 3,300 stone steps from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri and the 3,200+ steps at Chhomrong. Daily walking ranges from 4-7 hours with altitude gains of 500-1,000 meters on climbing days. The maximum altitude of 4,130m can cause mild altitude sickness symptoms, but serious issues are rare with proper acclimatization.
How much does ABC trekking cost for Nepali?
ABC trek costs NPR 15,000-35,000 ($110-260) for Nepali citizens trekking independently for 5-7 days. Nepali trekkers pay only NPR 100-300 for ACAP (vs NPR 3,000 for foreigners) and don't require TIMS. Main expenses are accommodation (NPR 300-1,000/night) and meals (NPR 1,200-2,000/day). Guides are optional for Nepali citizens, unlike foreigners who must hire licensed guides.
Which is better, EBC or ABC?
Neither is objectively "better"—they offer different experiences. ABC is better for shorter trips (5-10 days), lower budgets ($500-900), first-time high-altitude trekkers, and those wanting to avoid Lukla flights. EBC is better for the iconic Everest experience, those with 2+ weeks, experienced trekkers comfortable at 5,364m, and Sherpa culture enthusiasts. Many trekkers do ABC first, then EBC on a future trip.
Can I do the ABC trek in 3 days?
Yes, but only if you're an experienced trekker with excellent fitness and recent high-altitude experience. The 3-day itinerary requires 8-10 hours of trekking daily with minimal acclimatization time. Altitude sickness risk is high. This option is not recommended for beginners or anyone who hasn't trekked above 4,000m within the past month. Most trekkers should choose 5-7 days minimum.
What permits do I need for ABC trek?
Two permits are required: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) costing NPR 3,000 ($23) for foreigners or NPR 100-300 for Nepalis, and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) costing NPR 2,000 ($15) for foreigners (free for Nepalis). Both can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Since April 2023, foreign trekkers must also hire a licensed guide.
For step-by-step application instructions, see our complete Nepal trekking permits guide.
What is the best time to do ABC trek?
October-November (autumn) offers the best conditions with clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain visibility. March-May (spring) is equally good, with spectacular rhododendron blooms in March-April. December-February is possible but cold (-10 to -20°C at ABC). Avoid June-September monsoon season when trails are dangerous and views obscured.
How long does ABC trek take?
ABC trek takes 5-10 days depending on your chosen itinerary. The most popular options are 5 days (short), 7 days (recommended for beginners), and 10 days (via Poon Hill). Experienced trekkers can complete ABC in 3-4 days, though this isn't recommended due to altitude sickness risk. Add 1-2 days if starting from Kathmandu rather than Pokhara.
Do I need a guide for ABC trek?
Yes, since April 2023, all foreign trekkers in Nepal's national parks and conservation areas must hire a licensed guide. This rule applies to the Annapurna region including ABC trek. Guide costs range from $25-35 per day. Nepali citizens are exempt from this requirement and can trek independently.
What is the altitude of Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp sits at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). This is significantly lower than Everest Base Camp (5,364m) but still high enough to cause altitude sickness. The trek starts from around 1,000m and gains over 3,000m total elevation. Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), typically used as an acclimatization stop, is at 3,700m.
Final Recommendations by Traveler Type
First-Time Himalayan Trekkers:
→ 7-day itinerary via Ghorepani with Poon Hill sunrise
Time-Limited Travelers (Under 1 Week):
→ 5-day classic itinerary from Ghandruk
Experienced Trekkers Seeking Challenge:
→ 3-4 day fast trek or North ABC route
Photographers and Nature Enthusiasts:
→ 10-day itinerary in March-April (rhododendron season)
Budget-Conscious Nepali Trekkers:
→ 5-day independent trek: NPR 15,000-20,000 total
Those Deciding Between ABC and EBC:
→ Do ABC first if you have less than 2 weeks; save EBC for a dedicated 3-week trip
