Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance

Discover the Annapurna Base Camp Trek distance, daily walking distances, route variations, and how far you’ll trek from Pokhara, Jhinu, and via Poon Hill.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance

Taking the travelers to the footsteps of the 10th highest peak in the world, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a journey through stunning and beautiful landscapes revealing the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.

But many first-time trekkers wonder how far they actually have to walk to reach Annapurna Base Camp and what to expect along the ABC trail.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek distance changes depending on where you start, whether you include side trips like Poon Hill, and how your itinerary is structured. Think of it like choosing different routes on a road trip, some are shorter and direct, while others take the scenic route.

Magical morning at Annapurna base camp
Magical morning at Annapurna base camp

The total distance for trek to ABC from Pokhara via Birethanti (~84 km round trip), including Poon Hill for scenic views (~95 km round trip), or starting from Jhinu (~56.4 km round trip).

Each option adds a different distance and experience, letting trekkers customize the journey according to their pace, fitness, and sightseeing preferences.

For clear understanding, let’s dive and learn about total trek distance, daily walking distance based on the real itinerary, and variations like trek to ABC via Jhinu or Pokhara, including Poon Hill or not.

How Long is the Trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

The total distance for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek distance can vary depending on the route you choose. It is typically completed over 10 to 13 days depending on the itinerary and trek starting point.

The trekkers cover an average of 7 to 13 kilometers (4 to 8 miles) per day, depending on altitude and terrain conditions. Daily walking time typically ranges from 4 to 6 hours.

If you’re trekking from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp and back, the round-trip distance is approximately 84 kilometers or 52 miles round trip if you don’t include Poon Hill.

Including Poon Hill in your trek adds around 11 kilometers (7 miles), making the total distance approximately 95 kilometers or 59 miles.

When you start your trek from Jhinu to ABC, the total distance is approximately 56.4 kilometers or 35 miles round trip.

Walking through lush forests on the way to Bamboo.
Walking through lush forests on the way to Bamboo.

At Ace, the ABC trekking route begins with a drive from Pokhara to Birethanti, the trek start point, and follows villages, forests, and river valleys through Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Sinuwa, Deurali, and finally reaching Annapurna Base Camp.

Along the way, trekkers experience a visual feast of Himalayan peaks, lush rhododendron and oak forests, rivers, and traditional Gurung villages.

Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters is the major highlight of the trek. If you include the Poon Hill route, you also get to witness one of the best sunrise views in the Annapurna region, where the first light of the day paints the snow capped peaks in golden hues, adding another unforgettable moment to the journey.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Daily Distance Breakdown

The 13-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Ace the Himalaya follows a scenic route starting from Pokhara through villages like Birethanti, Ghorepani, and Deurali to reach Annapurna Base Camp, returning via Jhinu Danda and Syauli Bazaar.

Here is a clear daily breakdown of locations with distance and duration.

DayLocationDistance (km)Duration (hours)
3Birethanti – Ulleri9 km4 to 5 hrs
4Ulleri – Ghorepani 8 km4 to 5 hrs
5Ghorepani – PoonHill – Tadapani13 km6 to 7 hrs
Ghorepani – Poonhill3 km1 to 2 hrs
Ghorepani – Tadapani10 km4 to 5 hrs
6Tadapani – Sinuwa11.6 km6 to 7 hrs
7Sinuwa –Deurali13.2 km6 to 7 hrs
8Deurali – ABC7.2 km5 to 6 hrs
9ABC – Bamboo15 km6 to 7 hrs
10Bamboo – Jhinu11 km5 to 6 hrs
11Jhinu – Syauli Bazaar7 km3 to 4 hrs

Day 3: Birethanti to Ulleri (9 kms, 4 to 5 hours)

The trek begins after a short drive from Pokhara to Birethanti, the starting point of the trail at 1,039 m (3,408 ft). From here, trekkers follow a well-defined path through Hile and Tikhedhunga, gradually gaining elevation before facing a steep ascent of stone staircases leading up to Ulleri.

This section is known for its continuous uphill climb, especially from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, where thousands of stone steps test your endurance.

Trekkers arriving at Tikhedhunga
Trekkers arriving at Tikhedhunga

Despite the challenges of the trek to ABC, the route offers beautiful views of terraced fields, rivers, and traditional villages, making it a rewarding start to the journey.

Covering 9 kilometers, the trek from Birethanti to Ulleri is an approx. 4 to 5 hours hiking. This day is relatively light and provides the trekkers a glimpse into what awaits them in the trek by familiarizing them with the ABC trail.

  • Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Steep stone staircases and continuous uphill climb
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Walking Distance: 9 kilometers (5.6 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Birethanti- 1,039 m (3,408 ft)
  • Altitude: Ulleri – 2,020 m (6,627 feet)
  • Ending Altitude: Ulleri – 2,020 m (6,627 ft)
  • Ascend: 981 m (3,219 ft)
  • Descend: Minimal

Day 4: Ulleri to Ghorepani (8 kms, 4 to 5 hours)

The day begins with a gradual ascent from Ulleri through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests. The trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani covers 8 km (4.8 miles) and typically takes 4 to 5 hours to complete.

For the first hour of the trek, the trail to Ghorepani from Ulleri has a gentle ascent while crossing fine forests of oak and rhododendron to make your way towards Banthanti.

As you continue, you’ll pass small streams, and dense woodland before reaching beautiful gorge of Nangethanti and finally Ghorepani at 2,840 m.

Ghorepani
Ascending up to Ghorepani

Although the trail feels steady, the walk from Nangethanti to Ghorepani takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests on an uphill trail encompassing mixed terrains and rain forest.

  • Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Gradual ascent through forest trails with some uphill sections
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Walking Distance: 8 kilometers (4.8 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Ulleri – 2,020 m (6,627 ft)
  • Altitude: Ghorepani – 2,840 m (9,317 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Ghorepani – 2,840 m (9,317 ft)
  • Ascend: 820 m (2,690 ft)
  • Descend: Minimal

Day 5: Ghorepani to Tadapani (13 kms, 6 to 7 hours)

Starting early, trekkers can hike up to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters (10,531 ft) for sunrise views before returning to Ghorepani and continuing the trek. Crossing the rhododendron forests, you make your way uphill from Ghorepani through the stairs to Poon Hill which is approximately a distance of 1.5 kms.

Golden sunrise from Poon Hill
Golden sunrise from Poon Hill

At Poon Hill you will get mesmerizing view of the sun shining its first rays on the snowcapped peaks and witness a brilliant mountain range spectacle.

Then you return to Ghorepani for breakfast, the two-way journey is about 3 kms and takes approximately two hours to cover. Once you retrace your steps back to Ghorepani, you set off towards Tadapani.

The trail continues across the ridges and pine forests to reach Deurali at 2,960 m (9,711 ft).

Easing from here on, a downhill trek through forests brings you to Banthanti again, and then to Tadapani (2,610 m) which is your resting stop for the day after 13 kms to total trek for approximately 6 to 7 hours.

  • Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Mixed terrain with uphill and downhill sections
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Walking Distance: 13 kilometers (8 miles) round trip
  • Starting Altitude: Ghorepani – 2,840 m (9,317 ft)
  • Altitude: Poon Hill – 3,210 m (10,531 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Tadapani – 2,610 m (8,563 ft)
  • Ascend: 370 m (1,214 ft)
  • Descend: 600 m (1,968 ft)

Day 6: Tadapani to Sinuwa

The trek from Tadapani to Lower Sinuwa covers a distance of approximately 11.6 km (7.2 miles) and usually takes 6 to 7 hours to complete. The journey begins with descend walk through forests and small villages like Chule, and Gurjung.

There comes a final descent to the Kimrong Khola, followed by a climb to Chhomrong (2,170 m), where trekkers take in majestic views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain).

Along the way, we cross one suspension bridge and ascent to Sinuwa, culminating at 2,360 meters. This day includes both descent and ascent, offering varied terrain.

  • Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Continuous ups and downs with forest trails
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Walking Distance: 6 kilometers (7.2 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Tadapani – 2,610 m (8,563 ft)
  • Altitude: Sinuwa – 2,360 m (7,740 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Sinuwa – 2,360 m (7,740 ft)
  • Ascend: 500 m (1,640 ft)
  • Descend: 750 m (2,460 ft)

Day 7: Sinuwa to Deurali

The journey from Sinuwa (2,360 m) to Deurali (3,230 m) spans 13.2 kilometers and takes approximately 6 to 7 hours to complete.

From Lower Sinuwa, the trail winds through bamboo forests, with the sounds of rustling leaves and birdsong as you climb to Khuldighar (2,540 m).

Guesthouses at Deurali
Guesthouses at Deurali

After enjoying the serene surroundings, the path descends to Bamboo (2,310 m), offering cool shade, before gradually ascending to Dobhan (2,600 m).

The path includes a mix of stone steps and lush forest trails before reaching Deurali. This is a longer and more demanding day with steady elevation gain.

  • Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Long uphill sections with stairs and forest trails
  • Difficulty Level: Moderately Difficult
  • Walking Distance: 2 kilometers (8.2 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Sinuwa – 2,360 m (7,740 ft)
  • Altitude: Deurali – 3,230 m (10,597 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Deurali – 3,230 m (10,597 ft)
  • Ascend: 870 m (2,854 ft)
  • Descend: Minimal

Day 8: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp

Promising a rewarding feeling, this day marks the most important day on the Annapurna Base Camp trek as you will be going to the proximity of the stunning Annapurna and getting an intimate perspective of the peak.

Today the trekkers will reach the highest elevation of the trek at 4,130 meters (13,549 ft) at the Annapurna Base Camp. Therefore, it is the pinnacle of the trek.

Trekker on the way to Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Trekker on the way to Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Passing Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), the trail gradually climbs to Annapurna Base Camp surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers.

Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp

You will be spending your night at the ABC amidst the astonishing views and a feeling of victory after conquering the 7.2 km long trek of spanning almost 5 to 6 hours.

  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Gradual uphill at high altitude
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Walking Distance:2 kilometers (4.5 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Deurali – 3,230 m (10,597 ft)
  • Altitude: Annapurna Base Camp – 4,130 m (13,550 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Annapurna Base Camp – 4,130 m (13,550 ft)
  • Ascend: 900 m (2,952 ft)
  • Descend: Minimal

Day 9: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo

Waking up at Annapurna Base Camp, you are surrounded by towering peaks on all sides, and many trekkers choose to step outside early to watch the sunrise light up the mountains.

From the base camp, trekkers can catch a panoramic view of mountains like Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Tent Peak (5,663 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), and Annapurna III (7,555 m), creating an unforgettable high mountain amphitheater.

Trekker returning from Annapurna base camp
Trekker returning from Annapurna base camp

After taking in the views, you begin your descent, retracing the same trail but with a completely different perspective as you head back down the valley.

The route passes through Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), Deurali, and Dobhan, gradually losing altitude as you move away from the high alpine zone into greener forested areas.

The trail is mostly downhill, making it a long and tiring day for the legs, especially the knees, due to the continuous descent. After hours of steady downhill trekking, you finally reach Bamboo, having covered 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) in 7 to 8 hours.

  • Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Long descent with some uneven terrain
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Walking Distance: 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Annapurna Base Camp – 4,130 m (13,550 ft)
  • Altitude: Annapurna Base Camp – 4,130 m (13,550 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Bamboo – 2,345 m (7,694 ft)
  • Ascend: Minimal
  • Descend: 1,785 m (5,856 ft)

Day 9: Bamboo to Jhinu

Amidst the cold temperatures of the higher elevation, a promise of hot springs is what will drive your enthusiasm for the trek today.

Trekkers start an uphill trek to Upper Sinuwa from Bamboo, following the same route up to Chhomrong. From Upper Sinuwa to Lower Sinuwa is a downhill journey up to riverside crossing the same beautiful forests of Bamboo and Rhododendrons (Lali Gurans).

From Lower Sinuwa, the trek takes an uphill shift from riverside to Chhomrong and again descends very steeply taking the trekkers to Jhinu.

At Jhinu, you can get your well-deserved relaxation as you rejuvenate your tired muscles in the hot springs.

Taking a dip at Jhinu Hot Springs
Taking a dip at Jhinu Hot Springs

The total distance covered on this day will be around 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) which will take almost 5 to 6 hours to complete.

  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Mixed terrain with steep descents
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Walking Distance: 11 kilometers (6.8 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Bamboo – 2,345 m (7,694 ft)
  • Altitude: Bamboo – 2,345 m (7,694 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Jhinu – 1,780 m (5,839 ft)
  • Ascend: 500 m (1,640 ft)
  • Descend: 1,065 m (3,494 ft)

Day 11: Jhinu to Syauli Bazaar

The descent from Jhinu to Syauli Bazaar marks the final trekking day of the Annapurna base camp trek journey, encompassing a walking distance of roughly 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) to be covered in approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Accompanied by the Modi Khola, trekkers start their walk while soaking the final glimpses of the Annapurna region as they make their way to Syauli Bazaar via Landruk.

This is the easiest and most relaxing day of the trek.

Jhinu suspension bridge
Jhinu suspension bridge

From Syauli Bazaar, trekkers will hop on to a vehicle and go on a bumpy ride up to Nayapul. Once you cross Nayapul, you will have a rather comfortable drive up to Pokhara.

  • Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours
  • Trek Difficulty: Easy trail with gradual descent
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Walking Distance: 7 kilometers (12.2 miles)
  • Starting Altitude: Jhinu – 1,780 m (5,839 ft)
  • Altitude: Jhinu – 1,780 m (5,839 ft)
  • Ending Altitude: Syauli Bazaar – 1,170 m (3,839 ft)
  • Ascend: Minimal
  • Descend: 610 m (2,001 ft)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance from Pokhara

Most journeys begin from Pokhara, the vibrant lakeside city that serves as the main gateway to the Annapurna region. The trek to Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara includes both a short drive and the main trekking section, making it a combination of road travel and on-foot adventure.

To start the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara, you typically drive to Birethanti and from there, the real trekking begins through villages, forests, and river valleys.

One important thing to know is that trekkers have two route options from the beginning: you can either include the Poon Hill section or skip it and take a more direct path to Annapurna Base Camp.

Including Poon Hill adds extra distance but rewards you with one of the best sunrise viewpoints in the Annapurna region.

Total ABC Trek Distance from Pokhara (Including Poon Hill):

The trek from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), including Poon Hill, is a rewarding journey spanning 95 km (59 miles) round trip. Starting from Birethanti, the trail passes through Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill.

After the sunrise hike to Poon Hill, the trek continues through Tadapani, Sinuwa, Deurali, and finally reaches Annapurna Base Camp. This route offers a blend of serene forests, charming villages, and breathtaking mountain views.

  • Pokhara to Birethanti (drive): ~46 km (about 29 miles)
  • Birethanti to ABC via Poon Hill and back (trek):~ 95 km (59 miles)

Total ABC Trek Distance from Pokhara (Without Poon Hill):

Without including Poon Hill while trekking to ABC, the trek covers a slightly shorter distance of 84 km (52.2 miles). The route from Birethanti takes you through Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Sinuwa, Deurali, and finally reaches ABC.

The scenery is still incredible, with views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, making it a fulfilling journey despite the shorter distance.

  • Pokhara to Birethanti (drive): ~46 km (about 29 miles)
  • Birethanti to ABC and back (trek):~ 84 km (52 miles)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance from Jhinu

Jhinu Danda is a popular stop known for its natural hot springs, and it often serves as a relaxing point on the return journey from Annapurna Base Camp. But it can also be the starting point for ABC trek.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek distance from Jhinu is shorter compared to starting from lower points like Birethanti, but it still involves steady climbs and descents through forested trails and traditional villages.

This beautiful short Annapurna trek starting from Jhinu covers 56.4 km (35 miles) round trip and takes you through diverse landscapes, gradually climbing from the Chhomrong, passing through charming villages like Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dobhan, and Deurali, before reaching Annapurna Base Camp.

What Makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Feel Longer (or Shorter)?

Distance alone does not tell the full story because several factors influence how long or short each day feels on the trail. The terrain plays a big role, especially with long stretches of stone stairs and steep climbs that can quickly drain your energy.

Altitude is another key factor. At higher elevations, the lower air pressure slows down the absorption of oxygen, which naturally reduces your pace and makes even short distances feel more demanding. Weather conditions such as heat, cold, or rain can also affect your stamina and comfort throughout the day.

One of the biggest factors is the itinerary you choose. Where you start and how you pace yourself throughout the trek can greatly impact your experience.

If you stick to the itinerary mentioned in this blog, the trek should take about 13 days in total, including 9 days of trekking and the remaining days for transportation.

Tips to Manage the ABC Trek Distance Easily

Managing the trek distance is more about strategy than strength, and a few simple habits can make the journey feel much easier.

Staying consistent and listening to your body will help you enjoy the trek without unnecessary exhaustion. Here are some essential trekking tips for ABC:

  • Walk at a steady pace instead of rushing uphill
  • Take regular short breaks to recover energy
  • Stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid fatigue
  • Train before the trek with hikes or cardio exercises
  • Pack light so you are not carrying extra weight

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Distance Compared to Other Treks in Nepal

The Annapurna Base Camp trek, at approximately 95 km (59 miles) round trip for 13 days, is one of Nepal’s most iconic treks. To understand the ABC trek better, it helps to compare its distance with other popular treks in Nepal.

This gives you a clearer idea of whether it suits your time, fitness level, and overall trekking goals.

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