In short
- Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara in 30 minutes, or take a 6-8 hour bus.
- Take a 2-3 hour jeep from Pokhara to trailheads like Ghandruk or Nayapul.
- Trek 70 to 115 km round-trip to reach the base camp at 4,130 meters.
In this article
Most travelers begin their journey in Kathmandu. From there, Pokhara serves as the gateway city for the trek. You will secure your permits in Pokhara before taking local transport into the mountains to start walking.
How long is the flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
The domestic flight takes 25 to 30 minutes.
Flying is the fastest way to start your trip. Tickets cost between $100 and $125 each way. This route avoids the long and sometimes bumpy road journey across the mountains.
Can you take a bus to Pokhara from Kathmandu?
Yes, tourist buses make the trip in 6 to 8 hours.
Buses cost $10 to $25 and travel along winding mountain roads. You should book your seat in advance during the peak spring and autumn seasons. The road journey takes a full day, so factor this into your total travel time.
How do you get from Pokhara to the Annapurna trail?
You will take a jeep or taxi from Pokhara to trailheads like Nayapul, Jhinu Danda, or Ghandruk.
This drive takes 2 to 3 hours and costs $20 to $50. Using new road extensions significantly reduces your total walking days. Expect rough, unpaved roads as you get closer to the starting points.
Where does the Annapurna Base Camp trek actually start?
Trekkers usually begin walking at Nayapul, Birethanti, or Ghandruk.
Nayapul and Birethanti are traditional starting points. Officials will check your Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at the Birethanti check-post. Trek Permits Guide Recent regulations require foreign trekkers to hire a licensed guide through a registered agency before entering.
How far is the trek from the trailhead to base camp?
The round-trip trek covers 70 to 115 kilometers (43 to 71 miles).
The exact distance depends on whether you start at Jhinu Danda or Nayapul. You will hike for 7 to 12 days, walking 4 to 6 hours daily. The trail leads into the Annapurna Conservation Area, bringing you to a maximum elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
Questions travellers ask
Can beginners do the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
You will walk 7 to 13 kilometers per day on steep stone stairs with substantial elevation changes. You must be prepared for daily 4 to 6 hour hikes up to 4,130 meters.
Do you need a guide for Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes. Nepal Tourism Board rules from 2023 call for foreign trekkers to use a licensed guide; enforcement has varied, so check before you go.
How much is a taxi from Pokhara to Nayapul?
A jeep or taxi from Pokhara to mountain trailheads like Nayapul or Ghandruk costs $20 to $50 and takes 2 to 3 hours.
