How to Plan Your 11-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp in Kathmandu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you must not miss. With its breathtaking views and stunning landscape, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is an adventure that will stay with you forever.

To help you plan your trek, we have put together this guide on everything you need to know about the 11-day Annapurna Base Camp trek from Kathmandu.

Experience

The Annapurna Base Camp trek provides an amazing opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Nepal. The trek is challenging, but it is well worth the effort when you get to the top. You will also have the chance to learn about the local culture and lifestyle while exploring typical Gurung villages along the way.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of the trek include:

– Hiking through scenic landscapes
– Enjoying spectacular glacier and mountain views from Annapurna Base Camp
– Seeing typical Gurung villages
– Gaining an understanding of the local culture and lifestyle
– Making unforgettable memories

Full Description

Day 1:
The trek starts with a private car pick up from Kathmandu and a 6-hour drive to Pokhara. After arriving in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Day 2:
After breakfast, you will be driven to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. From here, trek to Tikhedunga and stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 3:
Start trekking early in the morning from Tikhedunga and head to Ghorepani. Along the way, you will gain lovely views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. Stay overnight at a teahouse in Ghorepani.

Day 4:
Get up early in the morning and trek to Poon Hill, where you can watch the sunrise over the Himalayas. Then, trek to Tadapani and stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 5:
Trek from Tadapani to Sinuwa and stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 6:
Continue trekking from Sinuwa to Deurali and stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 7:
Trek from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 8:
Start trekking early in the morning from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp, where you will be rewarded with the breathtaking views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machapuchare peaks. Stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 9:
After breakfast, trek back to Bamboo and stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 10:
Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, where you can relax in the natural hot springs. Afterward, continue to Nayapul and drove back to Pokhara. Stay overnight in the hotel.

Day 11:
Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu, where the tour ends.

Booking the Tour

To book the 11-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu, visit Get Your Guide. The tour provides a lot of value for the price and includes accommodation, transportation, meals, and a tour guide.

Conclusion

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Kathmandu is an adventure of a lifetime. With proper planning, this trek can be an amazingly rewarding experience. Now that you have all the information you need, start planning your trek, and get ready for an adventure that you will never forget!

Insider’s Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of ancient tradition and modern convenience. Here’s a detailed insider’s guide to help you plan your visit to Kathmandu, covering local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Kathmandu is home to a host of historical and cultural landmarks that are worth exploring. Some must-visit local attractions include the following:

Kathmandu Durbar Square

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former royal palace located in the heart of the city. The square comprises several palaces, temples, and courtyards, showcasing the finest examples of Nepalese art and architecture. Visitors can witness cultural events, festivals, and markets throughout the year.

Swayambhunath Stupa

Also known as the Monkey Temple, this iconic structure sits atop a hill, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city. The stupa is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists, featuring intricate carvings, colorful prayer flags, and numerous monkeys wandering about.

Boudhanath Stupa

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath Stupa is the largest stupa in Nepal and one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Tibetan Buddhism. The stupa is adorned with colorful prayer flags, and visitors can witness monks chanting and spinning prayer wheels.

Dining Spots

Kathmandu is a foodie’s paradise, with an array of restaurants and street food vendors serving up local delicacies and international cuisines. Here are some of the popular dining spots in Kathmandu:

Bhojan Griha

This upscale restaurant offers a glimpse of Nepalese culture, with traditional architecture, live music, and a delicious range of Nepali cuisine, including momos, dal-bhat, and spicy chutneys.

The Chimney Restaurant

This cozy restaurant serves up some of the best pizzas in the city, along with a variety of international dishes. The Chimney is a favorite among expats and locals alike.

Newa Lahana Guesthouse and Restaurant

Located in the historic neighborhood of Patan, this family-run restaurant serves traditional Newari cuisine and offers a cozy and homely atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

Kathmandu is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and offers a plethora of unique experiences for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture. Here are some of the must-try cultural experiences in Kathmandu:

Attend a Traditional Cultural Show

There are various venues in the city that offer live cultural performances showcasing traditional dances, music, costumes, and customs of Nepal. Some of the popular shows include the Nepali Cultural Show at the Nepali Chulo, the Newari Cultural Show at Patan Museum, and the Himalayan Cultural Show at the Garden of Dreams.

Take a Cooking Class

Learn the art of Nepalese cooking, from shopping for local ingredients to preparing and cooking traditional dishes. Several cooking schools in Kathmandu offer classes for tourists, such as Nepal Cooking School, Social Tours, and Backstreet Academy.

Volunteer at a Local Charity

There are many non-profit organizations in Kathmandu that welcome volunteers and visitors who want to make a difference in the community. You can volunteer at a local orphanage, school, animal shelter, or conservation project.

Local History

Kathmandu has a rich cultural and historical significance that spans over two thousand years. Here are some of the historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the city’s past:

Narayanhiti Palace Museum

This palace-turned-museum offers visitors a fascinating insight into the lives of the former kings and queens of Nepal. The museum displays various artifacts, photos, and portraits of the royal family.

Patan Museum

Located in the former royal palace of Patan, this museum showcases the exquisite artworks, sculptures, and architecture of the Malla dynasty of the Kathmandu Valley.

Pashupatinath Temple

This Hindu temple complex is the oldest and holiest temple in Nepal that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features intricate carvings, sculptures, and shrines.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For travelers looking to get off the beaten path, there are several hidden gems and unconventional activities to discover in Kathmandu. Here are some ideas:

Explore the Streets of Ason

Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Ason, a bustling market area that offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals. The market sells everything from spices, food, and clothes to electronics and souvenirs.

Visit the Kopan Monastery

Nestled in the hills north of Kathmandu, the Kopan Monastery is a peaceful retreat that offers meditation classes, teachings, and yoga retreats for visitors. The monastery also has a cafe that serves vegetarian meals.

Hike to the Shivapuri National Park

Escape the bustle of the city and hike through the scenic Shivapuri National Park. The park offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, and features lush forests, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Himalayas.

Kathmandu offers a unique and unforgettable experience that blends history, culture, food, and adventure. With this insider’s guide, you can plan an 11-day trek to the Annapurna Base Camp and explore the city’s many attractions and hidden gems.