Mt. Annapurna Base Camp with Machhapuchhre Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic and scenic adventures, taking trekkers deep into the heart of the Annapurna Himalayas. Organized by Special Trek & Expedition, this journey offers a spectacular combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. About two-thirds of trekkers in Nepal visit the Annapurna region, making it one of the country’s most popular trekking destinations. The trek is commonly known as ABC Trek (Annapurna Base Camp Trek) or MBC Trek (Machhapuchhre Base Camp Trek).
The trail passes through picturesque villages, terraced fields, lush rhododendron forests, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes. Starting from Pokhara, the trek gradually ascends through charming Gurung and Magar settlements such as Dhampus, Landruk, and Chhomrong, before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary. The highlight is reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m), surrounded by towering peaks like Annapurna I (8,091 m), Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The sight of sunrise over the Annapurna Massif from the base camp is simply unforgettable.
This trek perfectly balances adventure with comfort and cultural experience, making it ideal for both seasoned hikers and first-time trekkers.
The best seasons to undertake the Annapurna Base Camp with Machhapuchhre Base Camp trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear, dry, and stable — perfect for panoramic mountain views and safe trekking conditions. In spring, the trails bloom with colorful rhododendron forests, making the scenery especially vibrant. Autumn offers crisp skies, moderate temperatures, and the best visibility of the Himalayas.
In contrast, the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and occasional leeches in lower areas, though it’s great for lush greenery and solitude. The winter months (December to February) are less crowded, but higher elevations can be extremely cold, and snowfall may block the trail near base camps.
Seasonal Highlights:
Special Trek & Expedition recommends spring or autumn for the best trekking experience — ensuring both beauty and safety throughout the journey.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Machhapuchhre Base Camp is rated moderate in difficulty. It doesn’t require prior mountaineering experience, but good physical fitness and preparation are essential. Trekkers hike for 5–7 hours daily, covering steep ascents and descents, stone staircases, and high-altitude trails. The maximum elevation reaches 4,130 m at ABC, where some may feel mild altitude effects. Gradual acclimatization and hydration are important.
The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (205 km, 5–6 hours) via scenic hills and rivers. From Pokhara, a short drive to Phedi marks the trek’s starting point. The return from Nayapul to Pokhara is by vehicle, followed by a final drive back to Kathmandu.
Transportation Summary:
With professional guides and porters from Special Trek & Expedition, the journey remains safe and comfortable. Proper pacing, rest days, and expert assistance make this trek achievable for most active travelers.
Food and accommodation during the trek are based on teahouse/lodge stays, managed by local families. These provide warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere after long trekking days. Rooms are simple but clean, usually with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. At higher altitudes, facilities become more basic due to remoteness.
Meals are freshly prepared, offering both Nepali and international dishes. The staple meal is Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), known for its energy value. Trekkers can also enjoy noodles, soups, omelets, pancakes, fried rice, pasta, and momo (dumplings). Hot tea, coffee, and safe boiled water are available in most lodges.
Key Points:
Special Trek & Expedition ensures that all teahouses are well-selected for safety, cleanliness, and quality food, providing trekkers with a homely experience amid the mountains.
To trek in the Annapurna region, trekkers require two essential permits:
The ACAP helps fund conservation and local development projects within the protected area. The TIMS card ensures trekker safety and maintains records of all travelers in the region. Both permits are easily arranged by Special Trek & Expedition in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trek begins.
Permit Details:
Carrying permits at all times is mandatory, as checkpoints along the route require verification. The process is quick and hassle-free when organized by the trekking company.
Choosing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Machhapuchhre Base Camp offers a rare opportunity to witness the beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks. This route is a perfect blend of natural splendor, cultural richness, and moderate adventure. Trekkers walk through vibrant forests, traditional Gurung villages, cascading waterfalls, and stunning alpine meadows.
Why Choose This Trek with Special Trek & Expedition:
Special Trek & Expedition focuses on providing personalized experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Whether you seek mountain adventure, cultural insight, or a peaceful nature retreat, this trek promises an unforgettable Himalayan journey. Standing at Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks, you’ll feel the true spirit of Nepal — serene, majestic, and timeless.
Drive to Pokhara [210km-5-6hr] [Optional: 30 min flight] Evening: free time to self explore around Phewa Lake Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast, we take a leisurely approx 1 hour drive to Phedi (1130m) along the graceful Modi Khola Valley. On reaching our destination, we begin our highly panoramic Annapurna trek. The route skirts through lush forest and countryside to the hill top village of Dhampus. The mountains we see from Dhampus include Annapurna South, the Fishtail, Hiunchuli and Lamjung. We spend our first night in Dhampus Overnight at the local lodg
Trek from Dhampus to Landruk -About 5-6 hrs trek Beyond Dhampus we get our first clear views of the mountains ahead, as we ascend through forest on a trail which is often made up of stone steps on the steeper sections. Passing through Pothana, we reach a clearing on a pass, at a place called Deurali (pass). At this point we are high up on the east side of the Modi Khola, the river which flows out of the Annapurna Sanctuary. From Deurali we descend steeply down through forest then contour around through villages and terraced fields to camp in the picturesque Gurung settlement of Landruk, which affords spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Overnight at the local lodge
Trek from Landruk to Chhomrong-About 6 hrs trek) We descend all the way down to the river, to cross at New Bridge. Our route now climbs quite steeply, high above the river, through bamboo forest and isolated farmsteads. Lunch is served at the tea-houses at Jhinu Danda. Those who are energetic can take the path 20 mins down to bath in the hot springs here next to the river after lunch. From Jhinu Danda it’s a hot climb to reach the crest of the ridge and then around to Chhomrong, our overnight place for tonight. Chhomrong is built on the steep hillside and has a few shops and several tea-houses, wooden lodges and the whole village has stunning, prominent views towards Macchappuchare (Fish-Tail Peak) Overnight at the local lodge
Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan-About 7 hours trek We leave Chhomrong along the Modi Khola leaving behind inhabited foothills into the high step and wooded slopes of Himalayas. We cross the suspension bridge then trek up to Sinuwa Danda. The ascent from Sinuwa becomes somewhat flatter. The trail passes through thick and dark rhododendron forest up to Khuldighar. Then, we descend a long and steep stone steps into deep bamboo and rhododendron forests through which we reach Bamboo. After gentle climb of 1 ½ hrs walking, finally we reach our destination at Dovan for overnight Overnight at the local lodge
Trek from Dovan to Macchappuchare Base Camp [MBC] (About 7 hrs trek) Climbing steeply we reach a fire-blackened overhang of Hinko Cave. From here we will reach at Deurali. Leaving Deurali the valley narrows even more as we enter the gateway to the Sanctuary. We climb up to the area which is called Macchappuchare Base camp, a level and grassy moraine platform with several lodges. In the afternoon we can go up to the ridge behind camp to look down onto the glacier and absorb the distant view of Annapurna 1 & 3, Gangapurna and by straining your neck upwards…the now nearby Fishtail. Overnight at the local lodge
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp, Sanctuary [ABC] (About 2 ½ hrs trek) Another short day today, as it is a fairly gentle ascent from our camp to Annapurna South Base Camp, and a distance of only about 4 kilometers or 2½ miles. Increasingly impressive views reward us for our efforts as we climb the last steep section before reaching the base camp area. The afternoon is free to relax and admire one of the most stunning mountain amphitheatres in the Himalaya. Optionally, if conditions and route permit there’s a chance to walk out towards the Annapurna Base Camp. (4130m). Dinner and overnight at the local lodge (Teahouse) Overnight at the local lodge
Trek from ABC to Bamboo (About 6 hrs trek) Get up in the early morning and savor the magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas from ABC. After taking breakfast, we start descending from ABC to Bamboo back through MBC, Deurali, Dovan and finally reach Bamboo. Heading back down to the valley is much easier than climbing up. You will see the waterfalls that drop down from a high point to the rocks below. We pass through the forests with great views of Fishtail and Hiunchuli mountains. Overnight in Bamboo Overnight at the local lodge
Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda–About 6 hrs trek From Bamboo we make a steep ascent to the Kuldi Ghar and then to Sinuwa following the stone steps that leads to Lower Chhomrong. Then we ascend on the thousand stony steps taking us to Upper Chhomrong. From Chhomrong we descend to Jhinu Danda. We today get opportunity to enjoy hot springs lying just a 20-min walk from Jhinu Danda. Overnight at the local lodge
Trek from Jhinu Danda to Naya Pul–About 6hrs trek Trek from Jhinu Danda to New bridge and then to Kyumi village. After lunch, we trek to Syauli bazaar and then down to Birethanti. After about an hour trek from Birethanti, and we arrive at Naya Pul. The trek ends at Naya Pul. You will be picked you up at Nayapul and approx one hour drive takes you to Pokhara. We check in to our hotel late afternoon. Rest of the day free to wonder around. Overnight at the hotel
Drive to Kathmandu [Optional: 35 min flight] Evening: Nepali dinner with a live cultural show at the Nepali restaurant [Complement] Overnight at the hotel
Breakfast at the Hotel. Drive to the Airport as per your international flight time. Fare Well!!!
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The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek with Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking routes, combining breathtaking Himalayan views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Operated by Special Trek & Expedition, this 13-day journey takes you from the bustling city of Kathmandu to Pokhara and onward through charming villages like Dhampus, Landruk, and Chhomrong before reaching the magnificent Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m). It’s an ideal trek for adventure seekers looking for both natural beauty and cultural immersion.
The ABC Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers. The trails involve gradual ascents, stone steps, and some steep sections, particularly from Chhomrong to Dovan and beyond. Trekkers should be prepared to walk 5–7 hours per day. With proper acclimatization and guidance from our expert team at Special Trek & Expedition, most physically fit individuals can successfully complete the trek.
The best seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the mountain views are at their best. Spring brings colorful rhododendron blooms along the trail, while autumn offers crisp air and exceptional visibility. Trekkers can also do the trek in winter (December to February) for a quieter experience, though temperatures can be quite cold at higher elevations.
To trek in the Annapurna region, you need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card. Special Trek & Expedition will handle all necessary permits and paperwork on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience from start to finish.
Accommodation along the route is provided in teahouses or lodges, which are clean, cozy, and run by local families. These teahouses offer basic rooms with shared bathrooms and dining areas serving hot meals. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, trekkers stay in comfortable 3-star category hotels arranged by Special Trek & Expedition, providing a pleasant balance of comfort and adventure.
Meals during the trek typically include Nepali, Tibetan, and continental dishes, such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, and pancakes. The food is freshly prepared and nourishing for long trekking days. Bottled water, boiled water, and water purification tablets are available. We recommend avoiding untreated tap water. Special Trek & Expedition prioritizes hygiene and ensures all meals and water sources meet safe standards.
Yes, altitude sickness is a possible concern as you ascend beyond 2,500 meters. However, our itinerary is carefully designed for gradual acclimatization, spending nights at moderate elevations like Dhampus, Chhomrong, and Dovan before reaching MBC and ABC. Our experienced guides are trained in altitude awareness and first aid, ensuring your safety and well-being throughout the trek.
Essential packing items include warm layers, waterproof clothing, good trekking boots, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and sunscreen. Weather conditions can change quickly in the Himalayas, so packing for both warm days and cold nights is crucial. Upon booking, Special Trek & Expedition provides a detailed packing checklist to help trekkers prepare efficiently.
Yes, most teahouses offer charging facilities and limited Wi-Fi for a small fee. However, electricity may not always be reliable in higher areas. We recommend carrying a power bank or solar charger. In major villages like Chhomrong and Jhinu Danda, Wi-Fi connections are usually better. Special Trek & Expedition encourages travelers to enjoy the digital detox and connect with nature during the trek.
With years of expertise and a strong commitment to client satisfaction, Special Trek & Expedition ensures a safe, enjoyable, and culturally enriching trekking experience. Our professional guides, personalized services, and well-planned itineraries make your journey to Annapurna Base Camp and Machhapuchhre Base Camp truly memorable. From organizing logistics and permits to providing 24/7 support, we take care of every detail—allowing you to focus on the adventure of a lifetime.
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,050 |
| 2 - 4 | $999 |
| 5 - 9 | $985 |
| 10 - 15 | $970 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,800 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,690 |
| 5 - 9 | $1,675 |
| 10 - 15 | $1,660 |
| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,750 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,640 |
| 5 - 9 | $1,630 |
| 10 - 15 | $1,615 |
