Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara: Cost and Itinerary
  • Why Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara?
  • Suggested Blog Posts Related to Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost from Pokhara
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara Cost Ranges
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara Itinerary (Via Jhino Danda)
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara itinerary ( via Ulleri and Poon Hill)
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara: Elevation and Distance
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu
  • Final Words

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara: Cost and Itinerary

The  Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara is a scenic Himalayan trek in under a week. The ABC trek  from Pokhara begins with a jeep journey from Pokhara to trek commencement point Jhinu Danda (5,700 ft / 1,740 m). This jeep drive from Pokhara to Jhino Danda takes 3–4 hours and passes through rolling green hills and terraced fields. The trek is a circular one, beginning and ending at Jhinu Danda, and consists of around 50 km (31 miles) of walking.

Optonally, ABC Trek from Pokhara can be done via Poon Hill (3210m) As Well. If you plan doing Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill from Pokhara, you require taking jeep drive from Pokhara to Ulleri/Bantahanti (2.30 hrs) and begin the hiking to Ghorepani and Poon Hill.

Annapurna Base Camp Hiking from Pokhara is a rewarding experience for trekkers with its regal mountain vistas. The skyline is dominated by towering giants like Annapurna I (26,545 ft / 8,091 m), Machapuchare (22,943 ft / 6,993 m), and Hiunchuli (21,132 ft / 6,441 m). The trek's highest point is Annapurna Base Camp (13,550 ft / 4,130 m), which provides a panoramic vision of the surrounding snow giants.

The ABC Trek from Pokhara is a well-maintained trail with a mix of stone steps, forest paths, and glacier valleys. The trek is a steady ascent, but some steep sections close to Chhomrong while ascending from Jhino Dand (7,120 ft / 2,170 m), if you are suing the direct route via Jhino Danda, and ascending Deurali (10,600 ft / 3,230 m) from Himalaya need a good endurance. The toughest section of Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara is from Bamboo to Deurali, with single tracks and landslide-prone areas.

It usually takes 5 to 6 days to hike ABC from Pokhara which is shorter than beginning your ABC Trek from Kathmandu. The treks each day are 5 to 8 miles (8 to 13 km) and take 5 to 7 hours of walking per day. The total hiking hours are 35 to 40 hours round-trip from Pokhara to Pokhara. The lodging is teahouses that offer basic rooms and shared bathrooms. The meals are dal bhat, noodles, soup, pizza, pancakes, dumplings, and seasonal vegetables.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Trek from Pokhara. These seasons offer stable weather and magnificent  mountain views.

Two permits are needed for trekkers who are doing Annapurna Base Camp from Polkhara: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. Both permits can be obtained in Pokhara. It is highly recommended to take a guide and porter for safety and support, especially on challenging sections of the trail. Jeep or bus rides from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and vice versa and back offer convenient access to the trailhead and endpoint of the trek.

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Why Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara?

The Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) from Pokhara is one of the most popular Himalayan treks in Nepal. It is a combination of nature, culture, and moderately challenging trekking. From Pokhara (822 m), it passes through Gurung villages, forests, and rice paddies. Trekkers ascend gradually to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. The trek presents breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machapuchare (6,993 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m). Pokhara departure point for Annapunra Base Camp is advantageous in more than one way on the economic front, ease, and logistics. The track is suitable for beginners and repeat visitors who need a full-fledged Himalayan experience with low altitude extremity.

1. Economical Logistics and Accessibility

ABC Trek from Pokhara departure cuts the cost of transportation and logistics heavily.

Pokhara (822 m) is the closest city to the Nayapul trailhead (1,070 m) and Jhino Danda or Ulleri. Local buses or jeeps cost around NPR 500–1,500 for Jhino Danda from Pokhara. Trekkers from Kathmandu (1,400 m) must travel 200 km to Pokhara, which takes NPR 1,000–2,500 by bus or NPR 6,000–10,000 by air. Equipment rental and guides are also cheaper in Pokhara. Expenses are minimized on a daily basis by budget guesthouses, local teahouses, and affordable food prices. There are many trekking agencies operating from Pokhara and charging lower prices compared to Kathmandu-based operators. This proximity makes it easier for trekkers to save money without compromising on quality and safety.

2. Easy Acclimatization with Progressive Ascending

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara route follows a natural and gradual climb in altitude.

Trekkers start at Nayapul (1,070 m) and ascend gradually to Ghandruk (1,940 m), or can directly go to Jhino Danda by jeep or bus, Chhomrong (2,170 m), and Dovan (2,600 m) and reach ABC at 4,130 m. This incremental increase helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness. For example, trekkers camp at increasing altitudes like Deurali (3,230 m) and Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m). The body can adapt better when altitude gain is less than 500–600 meters per day. Medical records by Himalayan Rescue Association indicate that gradual ascent greatly minimizes AMS cases. Trekkers are fitter, recover faster, and enjoy the scenery without rushing or using medication like Diamox.

3. Flexibility with Trek Duration and Routes

Trekkers can modify their plan from Pokhara without difficulty which cannot be done if thye fix everything in Kathmandu.

Trekkers can have shorter 5-6-day ABC treks or extend to 8-9 days by adding Poon Hill (3,210 m) or Mardi Himal (4,500 m). This flexibility caters to varying fitness levels, weather, or time constraints. Most start at Nayapul and finish at Jhinu Danda (1,780 m) with a soothing hot spring plunge and begin at Jhino Danda and end at the same point. Even some go back through Landruk (1,620 m) to explore other trails. This loop reduces repetition and optimizes trekking. Beginning in Pokhara provides rapid access to backup routes and emergency egress. Local guides from Pokhara also assist in customizing plans according to trail status and desires.

4. Immediate Access to Mountain Scenery and Cultural Villages

Trekkers witness early sunrise with breathtaking views and cultural exchange in no time from Pokhara if you begin your ABC Trek here.

Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Machapuchare (6,993 m) are viewed from Ghandruk (1,940 m). Chhomrong (2,170 m) and Sinuwa (2,340 m) villages witness Gurung culture and hospitality. Starting the trek from Pokhara allows you to reach these places without detours. Poon Hill sunrise or MBC views offer unmatched Himalayan vistas. Cultural interactions enrich the trek with local cuisine, dialects, and religious practices. More than 30% of ABC trekkers, as reported by Nepal Tourism Board, identify village life as a highlight. Trekkers visit these destinations more swiftly and cheaply from Pokhara.

5. Good Infrastructure and Trekking Facilities in Pokhara

Pokhara has better support facilities, including teahouses, medical facilities, equipment rentals, and experienced guides, for ABC trekkers than in Kathmandu.

Pokhara teems with teahouses, medical facilities, gear rentals, and experienced guides. It hosts many trained porters and licensed trekking agencies. Trekkers can hire waterproof jackets for NPR 300/day or sleeping bags for NPR 200/day. Altitude guidance or treatment is accessible from clinics before the trek. Communication has become easier with internet and local SIM cards. The city also hosts emergency helicopter coordination centers and tourist police offices. For example, Pokhara-based operators conduct rescues between 3–6 hours using Annapurna Helicopter Services. Starting from Pokhara ensures safety, access to equipment, and rapid response, which is crucial in remote terrain.

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11. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in May
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Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost from Pokhara

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is among Nepal's most popular treks, starting typically from Pokhara and ascending to 4,130 meters at the base camp. It offers spectacular Himalayan scenery, wealth of Gurung and Magar culture, and diverse flora and fauna. Price is less than many foreign destinations but varies based on transport, guide/porter services, where one stays, and personal tastes. From food and fees to other luxuries like hot showers and Wi-Fi, every aspect contributes to the final bill. This is a breakdown of the trek cost from Pokhara, and by using it, trekkers can easily calculate and budget for their stay in both USD and NPR. The ABC Trek cost from Pokhara is cheaper than the ABC Trek from  Kathmandu.

1. Permit Fees

You will need two compulsory permits to trek to Annapurna Base Camp:

TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

Fee: NPR 2,000 (around USD 15) per single trekker

NPR 1,000 (approximately USD 7.5) for group trekkers

Released by: Nepal Tourism Board or TAAN offices in Pokhara or Kathmandu

Purpose: Safety monitoring and management of trekker information

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)

Fee: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 22.5) for foreign nationals

Released by: Nepal Tourism Board offices

Purpose: Conservation and maintenance of the Annapurna region

Validity: Single entry, valid for the length of the trek

You must carry photocopies of your passport and passport-sized photos for these permits. Permits are checked at various checkpoints including in Nayapul, Chhomrong, and Sinuwa. Without them, entry to the conservation area is not allowed, and fines or denial of entry may occur. Always carry the original permit along the trail.

2. Food and Accommodation Costs

Accommodation along the ABC trail is typically in teahouses ranging from lower villages like Jhinu Danda (1,760 m) to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m).

Cost per night: NPR 500–800 (USD 3.5–6.0) per room (2 beds, shared toilet and bathroom)

Prices go higher up because of the porter charges and logistics.

There are some lodges where there are free rooms if you eat there.

Cost of food is dependent on altitude and what is being served.

Dal Bhat (lentils, rice, vegetables): NPR 500–800 (USD 4–6)

Breakfast: NPR 400–600 (USD 3–5) for eggs, porridge, toast

Snacks: NPR 300–500 (USD 2–4) for noodles, soups

More altitude = more expensive due to transport difficulty

Meals tend to be predominantly vegetarian, well-cooked hygienically, and include soups, noodles, rice, pasta, pancakes, and the occasional meat (not always suitable above 3,000 m). Prices are most expensive at ABC and Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

The vegan and glutton-free items are alos available in the menu provided by local lodge along ABC Trekking trail.

Expect to spend around USD 25–35 (NPR 3,300–4,700) per day on food and accommodations combined.

3. Guide and Porter Fees

Having a guide or porter provides safety, way-finding, and cultural sensitivity.

Licensed Guide:

Fees: USD 25–35/day (NPR 3,300–4,700)

Duties: Way-finding, permits, first aid, translation, cultural sensitivity

Best for independent travelers and beginners

Porter:

Fees: USD 18–25/day (NPR 2,400–3,300)

Can carry up to 20–25 kg of baggage

Shared porter for 2 trekkers can save money

Some offer guide-porters (double role), for ca. USD 25/day.

Employment via a Pokhara-based trekking agency assures insurance and licensed staff. Independent employment can be cheaper but riskier.

Tipping is standard:

Guide: USD 5–10/day

Porter: USD 4–6/day

Use of local staff also supports the community economy in trekking towns like Chhomrong (2,170 m) and Bamboo (2,310 m).

4. Wi-Fi, Drinking Water, and Shower Fees

Wi-Fi:

Found in most teahouses up to Deurali (3,230 m)

Cost: NPR 300–500 (USD 2.5–4) for limited access

Everest Link cards do not always work at higher altitudes

Drinking Water:

Safe drinking water (filtered/boiled): NPR 100–150/liter (USD 0.75–1.2)

Best to bring purification tablets or a SteriPEN to save cost and reduce plastic usage

Spring water is available but must be treated

Hot Showers:

Cost: NPR 300–500 (USD 2.5–4) per shower

Type: Gas or solar-heated; solar is common up to Chhomrong

Cold showering is free of cost, but scarce at high altitudes because of cold weather

budget around USD 2–5/day for these facilities depending on usage and altitude.

5. Transport Cost (Pokhara to Jhinu Danda & Back)

Private Jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda (start point):

Distance: ~65 km (3–4 hrs)

Cost: USD 80–100 (NPR 10,000–12000) one way

Good for groups of 4–6 trekkers sharing cost

Shared Jeep:

Cost: USD 20–30 (NPR 1,500–2,000) per head

Less comfortable, fewer departure options

May have to wait for complete booking

Return Journey (Jhinu to Pokhara):

Same rates

Normally booked from Jhinu Danda or Siwai (with short trek)

There may not be direct public transport to Jhinu Danda. The road is off-road after Nayapul or Siwai, so 4WD vehicles are needed. Early booking ensures smoother start and end of the trek from Jhino Danda.

6. Extra Expenses: Drinks, Snacks, Extra Meals, and Tipping

Drinks:

Tea/Coffee: NPR 100–250 (USD 0.75–2) per cup

Bottled cold drinks: NPR 300–500 (USD 2.5–4), more expensive higher up

Alcohol: NPR 500–800 (USD 4–6.5), not advisable above 3,000 m

Snacks:

Chocolates, energy bars, instant noodles: NPR 200–500 (USD 1.5–4)

Buying in Pokhara is cheaper than en route

Tip:

Guides: USD 5–10/day

Porters: USD 4–6/day

Paid at trek end in cash (preferably NPR)

Charging equipment:

NPR 200–500 (USD 1.5–4) per item of equipment

Take power bank or solar charger to save cost

Others:

Laundry: NPR 300–600 per load

Medications or equipment (if left behind): Extra expense in Pokhara

Set aside a minimum of USD 100 (NPR 13,000) for such unexpected or discretionary expenses.

 So, the normal Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost from Pokhara ranges between USD 550-615 per person. This cost includes your meals, accommodation, transportation, guide and porter and permits.

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Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara Cost Ranges

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara Itinerary (Via Jhino Danda)

Day 1: Pokhara (822 m) → Jhinu Danda (1,710 m) by Jeep → Trek to Chhomrong (2,170 m)

Jeep Ride: 4–5 hours (approx. 55 km, rough road)

Trek Duration: 1.5–2 hours

Trek Distance: ~2.5 km

Overnight: Chhomrong

Day 2: Chhomrong → Himalaya (2,920 m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Trek Distance: ~12 km

Overnight: Himalaya

Day 3: Himalaya → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via MBC (3,700 m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

Trek Distance: ~10 km

Overnight: ABC

Day 4: ABC → Bamboo (2,310 m)

Trek Time: 6–7 hours

Trek Distance: ~13 km

Night Stop: Bamboo

Day 5: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda (1,710 m) → Pokhara by Jeep

Trek Time: 4–5 hours

Trek Distance: ~8 km

Jeep Ride: 4–5 hours back to Pokhara

Night Stop: Pokhara (end of trip)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara itinerary ( via Ulleri and Poon Hill)

Day 1: Pokhara (827 m) → Ulleri (1,960 m) / Banthanti (2,210 m) – by Jeep → Trek to Ghorepani

Drive: Pokhara to Ulleri/Banthanti — 3–4 hrs by jeep (approx. 45 km)

Trek: Ulleri/Banthanti to Ghorepani (2,860 m) — 3–4 hrs / 6–7 km

Overnight: Ghorepani

Total Trek Distance: 6–7 km

Trek Duration: 3–4 hrs

Day 2: Ghorepani (2,860 m) → Poon Hill (3,210 m) → Tadapani (2,630 m)

Morning Hike: Ghorepani to Poon Hill — 1 hr up / 1 hr down — 3 km total

Trek: Ghorepani to Tadapani — 5–6 hrs / 10 km

Overnight: Tadapani

Total Trek Distance: ~13 km

Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

Day 3: Tadapani (2,630 m) → Chhomrong (2,170 m)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs

Distance: ~9 km

Overnight: Chhomrong

Day 4: Chhomrong (2,170 m) → Himalaya (2,920 m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

Distance: ~12 km

Overnight: Himalaya

Day 5: Himalaya (2,920 m) → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

Distance: ~10 km

Night Stay: Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

Day 6: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) → Bamboo (2,310 m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs

Distance: ~15 km

Night Stay: Bamboo

Day 7: Bamboo (2,310 m) → Jhinu Danda (1,780 m)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs

Distance: ~9 km

Night Stay: Jhinu Danda (optional hot spring)

Day 8: Jhinu Danda (1,780 m) → Pokhara (827 m) – by Jeep

Jeep Ride: Jhinu to Pokhara — 4–5 hrs (approx. 60 km)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara: Elevation and Distance

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is Nepal's most scenic high-altitude trek. The trek can be started from either Pokhara or Kathmandu. Both routes lead the trekkers to the majestic Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 meters. However, the itinerary of the trip, its length, cost, and experience vary based on where it starts. From Kathmandu, the trek entails a long drive or flight to Pokhara. Starting Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara offers quicker trail access and less travel fatigue. This guide compares both approaches to help trekkers choose the best route for their time, budget, and interest. Both alternatives provide stunning Himalayan views and cultural experiences.

Let’s compare Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara and Annapurna Base camp Trke form Kathmandu with the following major points:

Accessibility and Transportation:

Kathmandu to Pokhara is a 25-minute flight or 6–8-hour drive (200 km).

Starting from Kathmandu adds extra time and cost before the trek.

Pokhara is closer to trailheads like Nayapul and Ghandruk.

2 hours by road (45 km) to Nayapul (1,070 m) from Pokhara.

One day is saved by trekkers by leaving from Pokhara directly.

A flight from Kathmandu costs $100–$125; a bus costs $10–$25 but is time-consuming.

Therefore, starting from Pokhara saves pre-trek delays and fatigue.

Trek Duration and Distance:

ABC Trek from Kathmandu typically takes 11–13 days including travel to Pokhara.

ABC Trek from Pokhara is 7–9 days based on the route and acclimatization.

Nayapul to ABC and back is 115 km.

Starting from Pokhara shortens the total travel by 2–4 days.

Transport from Kathmandu may take up to 2 days roundtrip.

Short-time trekkers are more advantaged by starting from Pokhara.

More trail time = improved acclimatization and scenic exposure.

Cost and Budget:

Kathmandu start includes extra transport and hotel expenses.

Flights are about $200 roundtrip; buses and accommodations are about $40–$60.

Trekking permits (ACAP + TIMS) are $50 for all.

Pokhara start cuts down on Kathmandu hotel and transport costs.

Local transport from Pokhara to Nayapul costs less than $30 roundtrip.

Cost of daily trekking is between $25–$50 and includes food and lodge.

Total, Pokhara start saves about $100–$200 per trekker.

Scenic Experience and Flexibility:

Both routes offer Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli.

Pokhara start provides greater trail option through Ghandruk or Jhinu Danda.

From Kathmandu, set schedules may limit route options.

Pokhara provides immediate access to diversity in the trail and natural hot springs.

Trekkers are able to enjoy Poon Hill (3,210 m) side trip from both routes.

Increased route flexibility offers better photography opportunities and rest stops.

Pokhara start enhances scenery with fewer tourists.

Physical Fatigue and Acclimatization:

ABC trek elevates altitude from 1,070 m (Nayapul) to 4,130 m (ABC).

Pokhara start allows for earlier resting and better altitude acclimatization.

Kathmandu start worsens early fatigue due to long travel.

Correct acclimatization days like at Chhomrong (2,170 m) reduce altitude sickness.

Trekkers from Pokhara can ascend gradually via Ghandruk (1,940 m).

Gradual elevation gain allows for safer and more enjoyable trekking.

Trekkers report fewer complaints when starting anew from Pokhara.

Both Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokahra and Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu trails ascend to the picturesque Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, with resplendent Himalayan views. If you plan to begin your ABC Trek from Kathmandu, you Yet, going from Pokhara is more effective and less tiring for most trekkers. It saves time and money, is more convenient with quicker trail entrances, and also provides more flexible route planning as well as greater acclimatization. Unlike going from Kathmandu, it requires longer transportation, additional days, as well as added expenses. Whereas Kathmandu offers international flight access, it comes with added fatigue and logistical complexity.  Starting ABC trek in Pokhara makes for easier trekking and lets trekkers get deeper into nature faster. For people with limited time, Pokhara clearly has the more convenient and scenic solution. Therefore, trekking from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp is better in all aspects. It provides just the right combination of efficiency, cost, comfort, and Himalayan experience. Trekkers will spend more time trekking and less anxiety, providing value to their trek to Nepal's renowned base camp.

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Final Words

Starting the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek from Pokhara (820 m) is convenient, proximate, and a more straightforward transition to trekking. From Pokhara, you conveniently reach trailheads like Nayapul (1,070 m) or Kimche (1,640 m), saving time and cost. The trek ascends through Ghandruk (1,940 m), Chhomrong (2,170 m), Deurali (3,200 m), Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m), and finally ABC (4,130 m).

On the other hand, starting ABC Trek from Kathmandu (1,400 m) involves another 6–8 hour drive or a 25-minute flight to Pokhara at extra cost but with cultural sightseeing in Nepal's capital. It suits those who desire a bigger experience before trekking.

For maximum efficiency and scenery immersion, the best is ABC Trek from Pokhara. For those who have more time or are interested in Nepal's heritage, a start from Kathmandu enhances depth. In either case, ABC is worthwhile with Himalayan grandeur, rich culture, and an unforgettable trek to 4,130 m.

Though you begin your Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara, again, you need be back to Kathmandu for your international flight. The international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport is located in Kathmandu.

Wherever you begin your Annapurna Base Camp Trek, either from Kathmandu to Pokhara, you will use the same trail either via Poon Hill or via Jhino Danda directly. No different trail of ABC is there depending on your starting point.

Author

Krishna Thapa