Annapurna North Base Camp Trek: Itinerary, Cost, Distance
Trip Overview
The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek remains one of the most underrated, less traveled and pristine trekking routes in Nepal, offering an unmatched Himalayan experience. The Annapurna North Base Camp Trekking trail is also known as the Maurice Herzog Trail. This trek offers stunning views of peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Nilgiri Himal, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri, while passing through remote villages, lush forests, and rugged high-altitude terrain. Unlike the more popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek (on the southern side), this route is more secluded, with no teahouses, requiring camping support.
The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking to explore a less-trodden path, filled with dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional Magar villages, and glacial valleys.
Below is a detailed itinerary of Annapurna North Base Camp Trek starting from Pokhara and ending in Lete, with approximate daily distances in kilometers and miles. Note that distances and times are approximate, as they depend on the exact path, weather, and trekking pace.
Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Highlights
. Scenic Beauty: Panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak. The trail passes through lush jungles, waterfalls, glaciers, and alpine meadows.
. Cultural Experience: Interaction with Gurung and Magar communities, offering insights into local traditions and hospitality.
. Narchyang Lake: A frozen lake in winter, adding to the trek’s natural allure.
. Wildlife: Potential sightings of Himalayan monal, musk deer, blue sheep, or even snow leopards.
. Hot Springs: Natural hot springs, especially near Tatopani, provide relaxation.
. Wilderness Appeal: The trail is less crowded, offering a serene and untouched trekking experience.
Why Choose the Annapurna North Base Camp Over the South Base Camp
. Fewer Crowds: While thousands flock to the Annapurna Base Camp (South) each season, the North route remains relatively unknown.
. Authentic Culture: The North route passes through untouched villages, offering real Magar and Gurung hospitality.
. Raw Scenery: The glaciers, high cliffs, and massive rock faces of the north face of Annapurna I are far more dramatic and imposing.
. Untapped Wilderness: Unlike the southern circuit, the north base camp is a true wilderness trek, ideal for explorers.
Itinerary of Annapurna North Base Camp Trek with distance
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu International airport, we welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel by our car. Orientation of the trip. Preparation for the trek. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (Alt 800m/2,624ft.) by Tourist Coach, 200 km west of Kathmandu. Driving 7 hours. Evening walk around Phewa Lake. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara.
Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Tatopani via Beni, Trek to Upper Narchyang.
Distance: Drive 115 km (71.5 miles); Trek ~2 km (1.2 miles)
Duration: Drive 5 hours; Trek 2 hours
Altitude: Pokhara (900m/2,953ft) to Upper Narchyang (2,140m/7,021ft)
Description: Start with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Tatopani via Beni, passing through picturesque landscapes with terraced fields and views of snow-capped peaks. From Tatopani, trek a short distance to Upper Narchyang, a small village offering cultural insights into local Gurung and Magar communities. Overnight in a homestay, preparing for the more remote sections ahead.
Day 4: Trek from Upper Narchyang to Chhotepa via Lekhgaun, Ghalemdi, and Mristi Khola.
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Duration: 7 hours
Altitude: Chhotepa (2,370m/7,776ft)
Description: Begin trekking through lush forests and traditional villages. The trail follows a mix of gradual ascents and rugged paths along the Mristi Khola river. Pass through Lekhgaun and Ghalemdi, experiencing the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Camp overnight at Chhotepa, surrounded by serene landscapes.
Day 5: Trek from Chhotepa to Sandhikharka via Humkhola.
Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude: Sandhikharka (3,165m/10,384ft)
Description: Continue through the Humkhola valley, with the trail becoming more rugged as you ascend. The path offers views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and diverse flora. Sandhikharka is a high-altitude meadow, ideal for camping with panoramic mountain vistas. Overnight in tents, acclimatizing to the increasing altitude.
Day 6: Trek from Sandhikharka to Annapurna North Base Camp via Bhusket Mela.
Distance: 9.5 km (5.9 miles)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Altitude: Annapurna North Base Camp (4,190m/13,747ft)
Description: Today is the highlight, as you trek to Annapurna North Base Camp through Bhusket Mela. The trail is challenging, with steep ascents and rocky terrain, but rewards you with breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Nilgiri Himal (7,061m), Tilicho Peak (7,134m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167m). Arrive at the base camp, a glacial area at 4,190m, and camp overnight amidst stunning ice formations and towering peaks.
Day 7: Explore Annapurna North Base Camp Glaciers and Trek to Sandhikharka.
Distance: 9.5 km (5.9 miles)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Altitude: Sandhikharka (3,165m/10,384ft)
Description: Spend the morning exploring the glaciers and pristine surroundings of Annapurna North Base Camp, including views of the North Nilgiri, Nilgiri Central, and Nilgiri South peaks. Begin the descent back to Sandhikharka, retracing the trail through Bhusket Mela. The descent offers a different perspective on the dramatic landscapes. Overnight camping at Sandhikharka.
Day 8: Trek from Sandhikharka to Thulobugin Phedi via Humkhola and Chhotepa.
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude: Thulobugin Phedi (3,500m/11,483ft)
Description: Descend through Humkhola and Chhotepa, passing familiar landscapes from Day 2. The trail transitions from high meadows to forested areas, with opportunities to spot wildlife like Himalayan blue sheep. Camp at Thulobugin Phedi, a strategic stop before crossing the pass to Lete.
Day 9: Trek from Thulobugin Phedi to Lete via Thulobugin Pass.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Altitude: Thulobugin Pass (4,310m/14,140ft) to Lete (2,010m/6,594ft)
Description: Cross the challenging Thulobugin Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,310m, offering sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The descent to Lete in Lower Mustang is steep and rugged, passing through alpine terrain to the lower village of Lete. Overnight in a Tea House or homestay in Lete, marking the end of the trekking portion.
Day 10: Drive from Lete to Pokhara.
Distance: 123 km (76 miles)
Duration: 6 hours
Altitude: Pokhara (900m/2,953ft)
Description: After breakfast in Lete, take a jeep or bus back to Pokhara via Beni. The drive follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, offering final views of the Annapurna region’s dramatic landscapes. Arrive in Pokhara, where you can relax by Phewa Lake or explore the city. This concludes the trek. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara.
Day 11: Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Coach. Driving 7 hours. Last minute shopping in Kathmandu. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 12: Departure.
We drop you at Kathmandu International airport by our car for your flight to your country. Final Departure from Nepal.
Please contact us by email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at +977 9851203181 for any further information about Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, its cost, or any questions. Once we receive your request message, we get back to you within 24 hours.
Accommodation and Food in Annapurna North Base Camp Route
Since the trek is remote, lodges are limited or nonexistent beyond Narchyang. Most groups camp with porters and cooks, creating a classic trekking experience.
Meals include dal bhat, Tibetan bread, fried rice, noodles, and local vegetables. Be prepared for basic but hearty meals that fuel you for the long trekking days.
Best Time to Trek Annapurna North Base Camp
The ideal seasons are:
. Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and pleasant temperatures.
. Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, excellent visibility, and post-monsoon freshness.
. Avoid the monsoon (June–August) and peak winter (December–February) due to landslides and extreme cold.
Physical Preparation and Fitness Tips
This trek demands good cardiovascular health and stamina. To prepare:
. Start cardio workouts 2–3 months in advance
. Practice hiking with a backpack
. Do altitude training if possible
. Stay hydrated and well-nourished during the trek
Essential Gear Checklist
. Sleeping Bag (-10°C or colder rating)
. Down Jacket
. Trekking Poles
. Water Purification Tablets
. Headlamp
. Multiple Layers (Base, Insulation, Waterproof)
. Trekking Boots
. Backpack (50L+)
. First-Aid Kit
Why Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Should Be Your Next Himalayan Adventure
If you’re seeking solitude, adventure, unspoiled landscapes, and unparalleled views of the Annapurna massif, the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek delivers all that and more. It’s a chance to walk a path few have walked, explore the wild side of the Himalayas, and make a genuine connection with the mountain culture of Nepal.
This is a trek for purists—for those who seek the real Himalayas, without crowds, commercialization, or compromise.
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