Annapurna North Base Camp Trek 9 Days
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek 9 Days

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek 9 Days

Customize Trip
Trip at a Glance
Duration9 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4,190 meters
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

Trek Overview

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. Unlike the popular South Base Camp trail, this trail immerses you in the northern side of Mount Annapurna I (8,091m), the world’s 10th highest mountain. It’s a newly opened and less-traveled path, offering raw natural beauty, peaceful trails, and authentic cultural experiences. You get to walk through remote villages, rhododendron forests, river valleys, and alpine landscapes.

The trek usually takes around 5 to 10 days, depending on your pace and route. The trail begins at Tatopani and passes through villages such as Narchyang, Phulbari, and Humkhola. Since the trail is not well-marked and there are no proper lodges along the way. This route is suitable for trekkers seeking adventure and isolation.

You’ll enjoy views of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and other peaks. Along the way, you can experience Magar culture and enjoy natural hot springs. This trek is moderately difficult and best for physically fit trekkers. Because of the lack of infrastructure, it’s still very untouched and gives a true wilderness feel. Perfect for extreme adventure seekers!

Highlights of the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek

  • Untouched Trail: A newly explored and less-crowded route, perfect for adventure lovers seeking raw and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
  • Glacier Lake (Pancha Kunda Lake): Visit the sacred Pancha Kunda Tal, a group of five holy glacial, crystal-clear alpine lakes located near the base camp. 
  • Stunning Mountain Views: Get up-close views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and many other snow-capped peaks.
  • Magar Culture & Villages: Explore traditional Magar villages and interact with warm-hearted locals living in remote mountain areas.
  • Natural Hot Springs: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural hot spring at Narchyang to relax your tired muscles after a long hike.
  • Cascading waterfall: Scenic Phutphute Waterfall near Narchyang village is an ideal stop for photos and refreshment in nature.
  • Camping Adventure: Experience real Himalayan trekking by camping under the stars, cooking your meals, and trekking with a guide and porter.

How long is the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek usually takes around 5 to 10 days, depending on your pace and fitness. You’ll start your trek from Pokhara, then drive to places like Tatopani or Humkhola before beginning the actual trek. Each day, you’ll hike for 5 to 7 hours through lush forests, cascading rivers, and mountain views. Unlike the popular south side of Annapurna Base Camp (like ABC or Poon Hill), the Annapurna North Base Camp is more remote and less crowded.

You might need to camp for a few nights since there are limited lodges along the way. The highest point is around 4,190 meters, so it's important to take it slow to avoid altitude sickness. The trek is moderate to challenging, so being physically fit helps you for a successful trek.

How much does the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Cost? 

This trek generally costs around $500 to $1500, depending on the way you travel. If you trek with an international trekking agency, it will cost you more. The best option is to book a trek from the local trekking agency like View Nepal Trek and Expedition for the best service at a reasonable price, which includes all the essentials for trekking, such as 

  • Local transport: $55–100 from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara
  • Permits: $40–50
  • Meals: $15–25 per day
  • Accommodation: $5–15 per night (or tent)
  • Optional porter/guide: $25–30/day
  • Extra costs: gear rental,
(depends upon what kind of wear you are hiring, where View Nepal Treks & Expedition assists you in managing all the required gear and trekking essentials )

Which is better, the Annapurna Base Camp or the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp (South) and Annapurna North Base Camp treks offer two different trekking experiences, each suited to different types of adventurers. If you’re looking for comfort, culture, and accessibility, the classic Annapurna Base Camp trek is a great choice. You’ll walk on well-established trails, stay in cozy teahouses, and pass through traditional Gurung villages. The views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding peaks are truly breathtaking, and the trek is manageable for most trekkers with moderate fitness.

In contrast, the Annapurna North Base Camp trek is ideal if you’re seeking solitude, raw beauty, and real adventure. This route is wild, remote, and still largely untouched. You’ll need a guide, proper gear, and strong physical endurance. You’ll witness stunning highlights like the sacred Pancha Kunda Lakes and the cascading Phutphute Waterfall, all far from the crowds.

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek

Trip Gallery
Itinerary

Note: The Itinerary can be changed or modified according to your time demand and your budget.

Trip PlanExpand all

Your arrival will be at Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, where our representative will be waiting for you. After your immigration formalities, you will be picked up by our team members from View Nepal Treks and Expedition for a warm, welcoming meet and greet. And transfer to the hotel, Basic activities are planned on this day, so as per your arrival time, you will have a couple of hours to rest and freshen up, and a walk to nearby areas to buy the essentials you need for the rest of the trekking days.

Max Altitude: 4,593 ft / 1,400 m Meals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 45 minutesDistance: 4km

After breakfast, today is all about a scenic drive to Pokhara, a beautiful city. Winding and bumpy roads that offer glimpses of Nepali life, terraced fields cascading down hillsides, and maybe even some snow-capped peaks in the distance, while leaving Kathmandu if the weather is clear. It's about a 6 to 8-hour journey in a private vehicle, so you can sit back, relax. After 2 hours of driving, you will be stopping for 30 to 45 minutes for lunch, then the next stop will be Pokhara. Once you arrive in Pokhara, which is at a lower altitude, so the air will feel a bit warmer, you'll check into your hotel. Take a stroll by Phewa Lake if you have time, it's super peaceful. Tonight, you'll have a good meal and get ready for the trekking adventure that starts tomorrow.

 

Max Altitude: Kathmandu (4,593 ft / 1,400 m), Pokhara (approximately 2,713 ft / 827 m) Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.Accommodation: Hotel.Duration: 6-8 hours by private vehicleDistance: Approximately 200 kilometers / 124 miles

After breakfast in Pokhara, begin your drive to Narchyang village through lush hills and remote villages. From Narchyang, drive in a 4WD jeep as the road becomes more adventurous, climbing up to Hum Khola/Dovan. From there, start your 2-hour trek through dense forests, crossing wooden bridges and serene trails to reach Sandi Kharka. You'll spend the night in a basic teahouse surrounded by nature.

Max Altitude: Narchyang – 4,921 ft / 1,500 m; Dovan – 6,889 ft / 2,100 m; Sandi Kharka – 8,530 ft / 2,600 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinnerAccommodation: eahouse & LodgeDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: Approximately 100 km drive + 2 hours trek

Today’s trek ascends steadily through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests. You’ll pass small clearings and streams as you gain elevation. The trail can be slippery and remote, so trekking with a guide is highly recommended. After 5 to 6 hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Bhusket Mela, a wide-open alpine pasture with spectacular mountain views.

Max Altitude: 10,991 ft / 3,350 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinnerAccommodation: eahouse/CampDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: Approximately 9 km
Max Altitude: 13,746 ft / 4,190 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinnerAccommodation: Tent or basic shelterDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: Approximately 8 km

Retrace your steps downhill from ANBC to Dovan. The descent is faster but requires caution on the rocky sections. After reaching Dovan, you’ll board a jeep and drive to Tatopani, where natural hot springs await. It’s the perfect place to soak your tired legs and relax after the trek.

Max Altitude: 3,904 ft / 1,190 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 10 km trek + 3-hour drive

Enjoy a beautiful drive back to Pokhara, descending through lush valleys and hillside villages. Once back in Pokhara, relax at your hotel or take an evening walk by the lakeside, soaking in the post-trek tranquility.

 

Max Altitude: 2,713 ft / 827 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hourDistance: Approximately 100 km

The return drive offers another chance to enjoy the beauty of Nepal’s countryside. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in at your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural dance.

 

Max Altitude: 4,593 ft / 1,400 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch, farewell dinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: Approximately 200 km
Max Altitude: : 4,593 ft / 1,400 m Meals: BreakfastDuration: 45minutesDistance: 4km
Unable to locate what you're seeking?Reach out to our travel experts.
Customize Trip
Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport Pickup and drop-off via private car/ jeep to the International Airport in Kathmandu,
  • Two nights' accommodations on a B&B basis in a respective hotel in Kathmandu,
  • Accommodation in a lodge and a tea house during exploration,
  • Fresh and local meals  (breakfast, lunch, dinner),
  • Experience a certified trekking guide for the entire trek,
  • All the transportation facilities are included as per the itinerary.
  • Restricted area permits, along with the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fees,
  • Government Tax processing fee and service charge,
  • First AID medical kit in case an emergency occurs during the trek,
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in an authentic Nepali cuisine restaurant with live cultural & traditional programs.
Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa fees (easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu).
  • International airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after your trek (unless specifically included in a customized package).
  • Personal expenses such as bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks, laundry services, and souvenirs.
  • Personal trekking gear and clothing (refer to our comprehensive packing list).
  • Travel insurance with comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation (highly recommended).
  • Tips for your hardworking guide and porters (customary and greatly appreciated).
  • Costs associated with optional excursions or activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Expenses related to emergency evacuation or unforeseen circumstances.
Add-ons & Options
  • Porter: If you are a solo traveller porter is not included. It will be available at an additional cost of  $140
  • Private car: From Kathmandu to Pokhara, you can hire a private car for a comfortable ride. It will cost you $120.
  • Flight: From Kathmandu to Pokhara, alternatively, to save time, you can take a 30 35-minute flight from KTM airport to PKR airport. For a two-way flight ticket, it will cost you $110
Essential Information

Best time to trek the  Annapurna North Base Camp

The best time to trek the Annapurna North Base Camp is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)​​​​​​. These seasons offer the best weather, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and beautiful snowcapped mountain views. In spring, the trail is full of blooming rhododendron forests, and the air is fresh. It’s a great time to enjoy nature and see wildlife.

 In autumn, the skies are the clearest after the monsoon, and the views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri are stunning. The weather is dry and stable, making it safe for trekking and camping.

Trekking in winter (December to February) is not recommended because of heavy snow and cold weather. The monsoon season (June to August) brings rain, slippery trails, and a high risk of landslides.

So, if you want the best trekking experience with safety, great views, and good weather, book your trek for spring or autumn.

Food and Accommodation on Annapurna North Base Camp Trek

Food and accommodation on the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek are very basic because the trail is remote and less developed. Unlike popular routes like the Annapurna South Base Camp, there are no teahouses or lodges along the way. You need to carry your camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking supplies. Most trekkers go with a guide, a porter, and a cook to help with food and logistics. View Nepal Treks & Expedition can arrange all the requirements for your successful trek.

Meals are usually simple and include items like rice, lentils (dal bhat), noodles, soup, and tea. All food must be carried from the starting point, as there are no shops or restaurants on the trail. You can refill water from natural sources, but it’s important to purify it before drinking.

Overall, expect limited amenities and basic facilities as the Annapurna North Base Camp trail is developing. In spring and autumn, we can find temporary tent hotels operated by locals.

Travel Insurance for Annapurna North Base Camp

Travel insurance is very important for the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek because it is a remote and high-altitude trek. You need insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 5,000 meters) and emergency helicopter evacuation. It should also cover medical treatment, accidents, and trip cancellations. This insurance helps protect you from high costs if something goes wrong during the trek. Always buy travel insurance before starting your journey for safety and peace of mind.

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Packing List

Main Gear

  • Large backpack (60–70L) or duffel bag
  • Daypack (20–30L for daily use)
  • A rain cover for a backpack

Clothing

  • 2–3 quick-dry trekking shirts
  • 2 trekking pants
  • 1 warm fleece or wool jacket
  • 1 insulated down jacket
  • 1 waterproof and windproof jacket
  • 1 pair of waterproof pants
  • 2 thermal base layers (top & bottom)
  • 4–5 pairs of arm trekking socks
  • Gloves (inner + outer/waterproof)
  • Warm hat, sun hat, buff/scarf
  • Undergarments

Footwear

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Camp shoes/sandals
  • hiking socks

 Food & Hydration

  • Energy bars, dry snacks, instant food
  • Water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3L)
  • Water purification tablets/filter

Personal Items

Toiletries (toothbrush, paste, soap)

Quick-dry towel

Sunscreen & lip balm (high SPF)

Toilet paper & waste bag

Hand sanitizer & wet wipes

Personal first-aid kit & medicines

 Extras

  • Trekking poles
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Map or GPS (optional)
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Notebook, book, or cards (for evenings)

Camping Equipment (if trekking during low/off season)

  • Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or colder)
  • Sleeping mat or foam pad
  • Tent Headlamp with extra batteries
FAQs

Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is a remote and off-the-beaten-path trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It takes you to the northern base of Mount Annapurna I, offering breathtaking views, waterfalls, glaciers, and fewer crowds compared to the popular south base camp.

 

 The trek usually takes 5 to 9 days, depending on your itinerary. Some trekkers also combine it with longer routes for better acclimatization and exploration.

 The trek starts from Narchyang Village, which is reached via a 4WD jeep ride from Pokhara. The drive takes about 4 to 5 hours through scenic hills and villages.

The base camp lies at an elevation of 4,190 meters (13,747 feet) above sea level, offering panoramic views of Annapurna I and surrounding peaks.

 

The trek is rated moderate, but some sections are steep and remote. Prior trekking experience helps, but fit beginners can also complete it with proper preparation.

 You need two permits:

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
     
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card

These are available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

 

The best months are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). These seasons offer clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain views.

 There are basic teahouses and local lodges along the route. They offer simple meals and rooms, but it's wise to carry a sleeping bag for extra warmth.

Yes. Annapurna North Base Camp is a less-traveled, remote alternative to the popular southern Annapurna Base Camp. It offers a raw, adventurous experience with fewer trekkers.

 

The average cost ranges from $600 to $800, depending on the duration, group size, and services (guide, porter, transportation, meals, permits).

Call to our expert 24/7
Bhupendra Adhikari
+977 9851029611
travelers choice
You May Also Like
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek - 14 Days
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek - 14 Days
14 Days
Starting From
US$1350US$1500
Details
Need Help? Call Us.+977 9851029611