Annapurna North Base Camp Trek – 12 Days

Jatra Travels offers a thrilling 12-day Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, perfect for adventure and nature lovers.

The first successful climb of Annapurna I (8,091m) was made in 1950 by a French team led by Maurice Herzog. Originally planning to climb Dhaulagiri, they switched to Annapurna's North Face after finding Dhaulagiri too difficult. Their oxygen-free ascent made history, though their dangerous descent involved avalanches and snowstorms. This route, now called the French North Face Route or Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, remains less traveled, offering a fresh adventure for trekkers.

Your journey starts in Kathmandu, then goes to Pokhara and Tatopani by road. The trek begins at Tatopani, passing through Narchyang village and Chhotepa before reaching Sandhi Kharka and finally Annapurna North Base Camp. You'll return via Sandhi Kharka, Thulo Bugin, and Lete, then drive back to Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Since this new route has no lodges, the trek can be challenging. We provide expert guides and Sherpas for support. Spring and autumn are ideal, with colorful rhododendron forests and possible wildlife sightings like musk deer, blue sheep, or even snow leopards. This trek promises a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas.

We are excited to offer 12-Day Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, a perfectly planned adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. Bookings are always open, and we can adjust the trek to fit your preferences, budget, and fitness level. If you need more details about the cost or have any questions, please contact us.

Attraction:

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Explore ancient temples, palaces, and stupas like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath.
• Local Cuisine: Welcome dinner with authentic Nepali dishes like dal bhat and momo.

• Panoramic Views: Enjoy lush hills, terraced fields, and river valleys on a deluxe AC bus with Wi-Fi.
• Phewa Lake Evening: Relax by Nepal’s second-largest lake with stunning reflections of the Annapurna range.

• Cultural Gem: Stay in a traditional Gurung village with stone houses, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality.
• Mountain Views: Sunrise/sunset over Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain).

• Nature’s Beauty: Walk through blooming rhododendron trails (spring) and terraced farms, with glimpses of waterfalls and snow peaks.

• Alpine Vistas: Ascend to 3,230m for sweeping views of the Modi Khola Valley and surrounding peaks.
• Altitude Prep: Acclimatize for the final push to ABC.

• 360° Mountain Majesty: Stand at 4,130m surrounded by Annapurna I (8,091m), Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machapuchare.
• Sunrise Magic: Witness golden light illuminating the Himalayas—a photographer’s dream.

• Relaxation: Soak in therapeutic hot springs beside the Modi River after days of trekking.

• Diverse Landscapes: Descend through bamboo forests, waterfalls, and terraced villages, with stops at teahouse lodges.

• Cooking Class: Learn to cook Nepali staples like momo and dal bhat from local chefs.
• Shopping Spree: Hunt for souvenirs in Thamel’s bustling markets (shawls, handicrafts, spices).

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Experience

In 1950, French mountaineer Maurice Herzog led the first successful ascent of Annapurna I (8,091m) via the North Face after abandoning plans to climb Dhaulagiri due to its difficulty, achieving this historic feat without supplemental oxygen despite a perilous descent through avalanches and snowstorms. Today, this route - known as the French North Face Route or Annapurna North Base Camp Trek - offers adventurous trekkers a less-traveled path beginning with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara then Tatopani, followed by a trek through Narchyang village, Chhotepa and Sandhi Kharka to reach Annapurna North Base Camp before returning via Thulo Bugin and Lete. With no lodges along this challenging new route, we provide expert guides and Sherpas, with spring and autumn being ideal seasons to witness vibrant rhododendron forests and potentially spot wildlife like musk deer, blue sheep or snow leopards during this unique Himalayan adventure.

Is the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Right for You?

This trek is ideal if you:

• Want to escape crowds and enjoy peaceful mountain trails

• Love camping adventures surrounded by nature's sounds

• Enjoy meeting local Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities

• Hope to spot rare wildlife like snow leopards or Himalayan tahr

• Are a photographer looking for stunning mountain views

• Prefer exploring hidden paths rather than popular routes

Preparing for the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek

This trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers, though those used to high-altitude walking (6-7 hours daily above 3000m) will find it easier. If you're new to trekking, start with cardio exercises or local hill walks to build stamina. While the difficulty is moderate, be prepared for basic camping - sleeping in tents, eating simple Nepali meals, and using natural restrooms, as there are no mountain teahouses like on more popular routes.

Mental preparation is just as important as physical fitness, as you'll be in remote areas with minimal facilities. Get comfortable with basic camping and be ready to adapt to changing weather and simple living conditions. Remember, good preparation makes all the difference for a safe and enjoyable high-altitude trekking experience.

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Difficulty

This is a moderate-level trek in Nepal's Annapurna region, suitable for most hikers as it has no technical climbing sections. The trail gradually climbs to 4,190m, allowing good altitude acclimatization. While challenging, it's manageable because:

1. Terrain - Gradual ascents with hanging bridges (like over Nilgiri River) avoid risky river crossings

2. Altitude - Smart pacing helps your body adjust to the elevation

3. Camping Conditions - Basic facilities (simple tents, meals, natural toilets) as there are no teahouses

4. Remoteness - Be prepared for longer walking days (5-7 hours) in isolated areas

The combination of altitude, camping, and remote trails makes it more demanding than teahouse treks, but proper preparation makes it achievable for most fit travelers.

Best Time to Go:
The ideal seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and breathtaking mountain views. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while autumn boasts crisp air and panoramic vistas.

Cultural Highlights:
This trek is not just about the mountains—it's a journey through the heart of Gurung and Magar villages, where you’ll experience warm hospitality, traditional stone houses, and Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Stop by ancient monasteries, interact with locals, and enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine along the way.

Packing List Essentials:
Here are a few must-haves to keep your trek smooth and comfortable:

• Good-quality trekking boots (broken-in!)

• Warm layers (thermal base layers, down jacket, fleece)

• Lightweight rain jacket and waterproof pants

• Reusable water bottle and purification tablets

• Trekking poles (highly recommended)

• Basic first-aid kit and personal medications

• Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and hat

• Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)

• Headlamp with extra batteries

• Copies of documents (passport, permits, insurance)