North Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Overview & Highlights

Trip Facts

Max Elevation4190m

The North Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, offering a daring approach to the North Face of Annapurna I (8,091 m)—the most formidable and dangerous wall in the Himalayas. Far removed from the crowded southern routes, this trail ventures into rugged wilderness, glacial valleys, and raw Himalayan beauty seldom seen by trekkers.

Unlike the classic Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, which approaches from the south through Ghorepani or Chhomrong, the North Annapurna Base Camp lies in the high alpine basin above Narchyang village in the Myagdi district. This region remains undeveloped, remote, and suited only for adventurous trekkers seeking a wilderness camping experience and unfiltered views of the massive northern wall of Annapurna I, Annapurna Fang, Glacier Dome, and Tilicho Peak.

This trek was originally used by the French expedition that summited Annapurna I in 1950—the first 8,000m peak to be climbed. Today, it remains largely forgotten, with no lodges or teahouses, requiring full camping support. It's a journey for serious trekkers who want to explore deep valleys, silent glaciers, and alpine moraines while tracing the footsteps of early Himalayan explorers.

Trek Highlights:

Witness Annapurna I’s North Face, one of the most dramatic vertical walls in the world.
Follow the historical trail of the first successful 8,000m expedition.
Traverse remote alpine terrain with no crowds, just raw nature.
Enjoy complete camping trek experience—ideal for experienced hikers.
Visit Panchkunda Lake, a sacred glacial lake near base camp.

Best Seasons:

Spring (April–May) and Autumn (October–November) are ideal with clear skies and stable trails.
Early winter (Dec) offers snow-covered serenity but requires extra gear and caution.
Not advisable during monsoon (June–Aug) due to landslides and poor visibility.

Itinerary

Explore the day-by-day plan for your journey.

Breakfast, then drive via Beni to Tatopani (~5 hrs).
Start trek after lunch: steep uphill walk through mixed forest and terrace farms.
Cross suspension bridge, reach Upper Narchyang—home to Magar community.
Trek Duration: 3–4 hrs
Overnight: Camping or homestay in Upper Narchyang
Meals: B/L/D

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Camp

Elevation

2140 m.

Enter deeper forest trail with views of Mt. Nilgiri and Annapurna South.
Trail gets narrower and wilder; spot waterfalls and wildlife.
First full night of tented camping begins here.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs
Overnight: Camping at Chhotepa
Meals: B/L/D

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Camp

Elevation

2369 m.

Ascend through lush rhododendron and pine forest.
Beautiful ridge walk with occasional glimpses of snow peaks.
Reach Sandhi Kharka, an open pasture surrounded by forested ridges.
Camp setup with stargazing opportunities.
Trek Duration: 6 hrs
Overnight: Camping at Sandhi Kharka
Meals: B/L/D

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Camp

Elevation

3165 m.

Today is the highlight of the trek.
Climb steep moraine trail and rocky ridges.
Arrive at North Annapurna Base Camp, below the towering north face.
Visit Panchkunda Lake, a sacred glacial basin nearby.
Spectacular views of Annapurna I, Fang, Tilicho Peak, and Glacier Dome.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs
Overnight: Camping at Base Camp
Meals: B/L/D

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Camp

Elevation

4190 m.

After sunrise views and exploration, retrace your steps downhill.
A slower descent through the same rocky and forest terrain.
Trek Duration: 5 hrs
Overnight: Camping at Sandhi Kharka
Meals: B/L/D

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Camp

Elevation

3165 m.

Traverse through forested ridges and untouched highlands.
Less trodden path with remote camp setup at Thulo Bugin.
Peaceful alpine environment, great for photography.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs
Overnight: Camping at Thulo Bugin
Meals: B/L/D

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Camp

Elevation

3500 m.

Long and scenic descent into Mustang district.
Trail offers expansive views of Dhaulagiri and Kali Gandaki Valley.
Arrive at Lete, a beautiful Thakali village on the Annapurna Circuit.
Hot shower and local food in a teahouse lodge.
Trek Duration: 6 hrs
Overnight: Teahouse in Lete
Meals: B/L/D

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Teahouse

Elevation

2010 m.

After breakfast, board jeep along the Kali Gandaki gorge.
Pass through Marpha, Tukuche, Tatopani, and Beni en route.
Return to Pokhara by late afternoon.
Leisure evening in lakeside with dinner.
Drive Duration: 6–7 hrs
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: B/L

Food

BLD

Accommodation

Hotel

Elevation

950 m.

Trip Cost & Services

Cost Includes

Airport transfers and ground transport (KTM–Pokhara–Tatopani–Lete–KTM)
3 nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara/Kathmandu (twin sharing)
All meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee)
Fully organized camping support: tents, cook, kitchen, crew, equipment
Licensed trekking guide and porters (1 porter per 2 clients)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Company duffel bag, map, and group medical kit
Government tax and service fees

Cost Excludes

International flights and Nepal visa fee
Travel insurance with emergency evacuation
Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Personal trekking gear
Tips for crew and guide
Extra nights or upgrades outside itinerary

Explore the route

Altitude & route map

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