Annapurna North Base Camp

Annapurna North Base Camp (4190m) is one of Nepal’s least explored Himalayan destinations and a historically significant site used during the 1950 French expedition, which achieved the first ascent of Annapurna I (8,091m), the first 8,000-meter summit ever climbed. Unlike the popular south side (ABC Sanctuary), the north approach is wilder, more remote, and still relatively untouched. This makes it an exceptional trek for adventurers seeking solitude, authentic mountain culture, and rare access to a legendary mountaineering trail.

Where is Annapurna North Base Camp?

Annapurna North Base Camp lies in the Annapurna region of western Nepal, above the villages of Narchyang, Chhotepa, and Sandhi Kharka, in the Myagdi district.
It is positioned directly below the north face of Annapurna I, surrounded by towering ice walls, glaciers, and rugged terrain.

This section of the range is rarely visited, making the trail a hidden treasure compared to the commercial south-side ABC route.

Why Annapurna North Base Camp is Special

Historical Importance

• Starting point for the first-ever successful ascent of an 8,000m peak (1950).
• Very few trekkers visit this base camp today, preserving its authenticity.

Exclusive Route with Minimal Crowds

• Unlike other Annapurna routes, the north trail sees very limited traffic.
• Ideal for trekkers who prefer wilderness, raw nature, and quiet trails.

Rich Local Culture

• Trek passes through traditional Gurung and Magar communities, where daily life still reflects Himalayan traditions.
• Villages like Upper Narchyang offer homestay-style warmth and genuine cultural hospitality.

Wild and Untouched Landscapes

• Dense rhododendron forests
• Alpine meadows and high-altitude pastures
• Steep glacial valleys and moraine fields
• Spectacular views of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Baraha Shikhar

Perfect for Remote Trekking Lovers

This trek combines adventure, cultural immersion, and mountaineering history, making it a rare Himalayan experience.

Trek Difficulty & Trail Nature

Grade: Moderate to challenging
Suitable for: Experienced trekkers, high-altitude hikers, adventure enthusiasts

Challenges include:

• Steep ascents in remote terrain
• Sparse accommodations (mostly teahouses and basic lodges)
• High altitude above 4,000m
• Possible snowfall and changing weather conditions

Good physical fitness and acclimatization are recommended.

Best Time to Visit Annapurna North Base Camp

The best time to visit Annapurna North Base Camp is during the stable trekking seasons of Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November). These periods offer the safest trail conditions, clear mountain visibility, comfortable temperatures, and the lowest chances of weather disruptions. Since Annapurna North Base Camp is a remote, less-developed, and wilderness region, choosing the right season greatly impacts safety, success, and overall trekking quality.

Spring Season (March–May) – The Most Beautiful Time

Spring is considered the ideal season for trekking to Annapurna North Base Camp.

Why Spring is Best

• Clear skies with excellent visibility of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and the Kali Gandaki Valley
• Blooming rhododendrons and rich vegetation along the lower trail
• Moderate daytime temperatures (10–18°C in mid-altitudes)
• Stable weather with minimal snowfall
• Longer daylight hours for trekking

Who Should Go in Spring

• Trekkers who prefer a vibrant, colourful landscape
• Photographers seeking clear mountain shots
• First-time trekkers looking for more comfortable temperatures

Autumn Season (September–November) – Best for Clarity & Stability

Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal and is perfect for Annapurna North Base Camp.

Why Autumn is Excellent

• Crystal-clear mountain views after the monsoon
• Extremely stable weather and low precipitation
• Cool but comfortable temperatures (8–15°C at mid-altitudes)
• Dry trails with excellent traction
• Ideal conditions for camping and off-the-beaten-path trekking

Who Should Trek in Autumn

• Trekkers prioritizing sharp visibility
• Those interested in safe and predictable weather
• Travelers who enjoy crisp Himalayan air and blue skies

Monsoon Season (June–August) – Not Recommended

Monsoon brings heavy rainfall, especially in the lower regions.

Challenges

• Slippery and muddy trails
• Landslide risks in gorge sections
• Poor visibility due to clouds and rain
• Leeches in forested areas
• High river levels making crossings risky

Only suitable for experienced trekkers or special research groups with local guides.

Winter Season (December–February) – Challenging but Possible

Winter provides stunning views but comes with harsh weather.

Concerns

• Extremely cold temperatures (down to –15°C near Base Camp)
• Heavy snowfall blocking the high trail sections
• Increased risk of avalanche and trail closure
• Harsh winds in exposed ridge areas

Suitable For

• Experienced trekkers with winter gear
• Adventurers seeking a quiet, crowd-free trail
• Those prepared for high-altitude cold and potential delays

Summary: Best Month-by-Month Recommendation

Annapurna North Base Camp FAQs

Q: Where is Annapurna North Base Camp located?

A: Annapurna North Base Camp is located in the Myagdi District of western Nepal, above the traditional villages of Narchyang, Chhotepa, and Sandhi Kharka. It sits at an altitude of 4,190m (13,746 ft) and lies directly below the north face of Annapurna I.

Q: How difficult is the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek?

A: The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to steep ascents, remote landscapes, and higher altitudes. It is suitable for trekkers with prior hiking experience, good physical fitness, and the ability to walk 6–7 hours a day in rugged terrain.

Q: How many days does the trek take?

A: The standard itinerary is 12 days, including arrival and departure days, transportation, and trekking to and from the base camp.

Q: What is the best time to trek to Annapurna North Base Camp?

A: The two best seasons are:

• Spring (March–May): Clear weather, blooming rhododendrons, and stable temperatures.
• Autumn (September–November): Crystal-clear views, dry trails, and ideal trekking conditions.

Winter can bring heavy snow, and monsoon trails may be slippery—both are less favourable.

Q: Do I need permits for this trek?

A: Yes. Two permits are required:

• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

These permits ensure safe registration and support conservation efforts.

Q: Is Annapurna North Base Camp crowded?

A: No. This is one of the least-visited trekking routes in the Annapurna region. You can expect peaceful trails, untouched nature, and a strong sense of wilderness, unlike the busy south-side Annapurna Base Camp.

Q: What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?

A: Accommodation consists of teahouses and homestays. They offer basic but comfortable lodging with shared rooms, warm meals, and local hospitality. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you stay in 3-star hotels with breakfast included.

Q: What is the highest altitude reached on this trek?

A: The highest point is Annapurna North Base Camp at 4,190m, where trekkers enjoy close-up views of Annapurna I and surrounding peaks.

Q: What are the major highlights of this trek?

A:

• Rarely visited Annapurna I North Face
• Historic expedition route from 1950
• Remote Himalayan villages
• Stunning waterfalls, forests, meadows, and glaciers
• Peaceful and crowd-free trails
• Close cultural interaction with Gurung and Magar communities

Q: What type of food is available during the trek?

A: Teahouses provide full-board meals including Nepali dal bhat, noodles, soups, Tibetan bread, momos, vegetables, eggs, pancakes, and warm drinks. Meals are simple but nutritious, designed to help with energy and acclimatisation.

Q: Are guides and porters necessary?

A: Yes, highly recommended.
The north base camp route is less commercialised and involves remote sections where a licensed guide ensures safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Porters carry heavy loads, allowing you to trek comfortably.

Q: Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes, altitude sickness can occur after 3,000m.
The itinerary is designed for gradual ascent, but trekkers should hydrate well, walk slowly, and inform the guide of any symptoms like headache, dizziness, or nausea.

Q: Is trekking insurance required?

A: Yes. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking (up to 5,000m) and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended for this remote trail.

Q: What should I pack for this trek?

A: Essential items include:

• Warm layers (down jacket, thermal wear)
• Gloves, hat, and trekking socks
• Comfortable boots
• Sleeping bag (provided by us)
• Trekking poles
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a headlamp

A detailed packing list can be provided upon request.

Q: Who is this trek suitable for?

A: This trek is ideal for:

• Adventure seekers
• Photographers
• Trekkers wanting a less crowded route
• Those interested in Himalayan history
• Hikers are comfortable with remote terrains

It’s perfect for anyone wanting a unique, off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience.

Essential Information

Trek Location & Altitude Profile

• Region: Annapurna, Western Nepal
• District: Myagdi
• Highest Point: Annapurna North Base Camp – 4,190m (13,746 ft)
• Starting Point: Tatopani / Upper Narchyang
• Ending Point: Lete / Pokhara

This route follows the historic trail used during the 1950 French Expedition that first summited Annapurna I, making it a meaningful journey for mountaineering enthusiasts.

Best Time to Trek

The trek should ideally be completed during stable weather seasons:

Spring (March–May)

• Clear skies
• Mild temperatures
• Blooming rhododendrons
• Excellent visibility

Autumn (September–November)

• Dry trails
• Crisp mountain views
• Reliable weather
• Ideal for photography

Less Recommended

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Heavy snow above Sandhi Kharka
• Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Landslides, leeches, and cloudy visibility

Trek Difficulty & Physical Requirements

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

The trail includes:

• Steep ascents and descents
• Remote and rugged sections
• Limited teahouses in higher areas
• High altitude exposure above 4,000m

Recommended for:

• Trekkers with previous hiking experience
• Good physical fitness
• Ability to walk 6–7 hours per day
• Strong mental preparedness for remote conditions

Accommodation During the Trek

Accommodation varies between teahouses and homestays, depending on the village:

• Lower region (Tatopani, Upper Narchyang): Basic but comfortable teahouses
• Mid-region (Chhotepa, Sandhi Kharka): Simple teahouses or communal lodges
• High region (near Base Camp): Rustic accommodation with limited amenities

Rooms usually have twin-sharing beds, blankets, and simple dining areas.
Hot showers and Wi-Fi may not be available in remote sections.

Meals on the Trail

Trekkers enjoy full-board meals prepared by local teahouses. Typical menu items include:

• Dal Bhat (Nepali set meal)
• Noodles, soups, fried rice
• Omelets, chapati, pancakes
• Tea, coffee, hot lemon

Food is simple but nutritious, helping maintain energy during the high-altitude trek.

Required Permits

Two official permits are mandatory:

• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

These permits help manage conservation efforts and ensure trekker safety.

Guide and Porter Services

Because the route is remote and less commercial, a licensed guide is strongly recommended.

Your team will include:

• Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
• Porter support (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carrying 15–20 kg)

They enhance safety, navigation, cultural understanding, and overall trekking comfort.

Packing Essentials

Trekkers should prepare for varied weather conditions. Key items include:

• Warm layered clothing (thermal, fleece, down jacket)
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Trekking boots with strong grip
• Gloves, hat, and warm socks
• UV-protection sunglasses
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Power bank
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal medication and basic toiletries

A sleeping bag and duffel bag are usually provided by trekking companies.

Altitude Sickness & Safety

Annapurna North Base Camp reaches 4,190m, so altitude sickness can be a concern.

Symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Nausea

Safety Tips:

• Walk slowly and hydrate well
• Avoid alcohol at high altitude
• Inform your guide of any symptoms
• Consider carrying Diamox (under medical advice)

Guides carry a first-aid kit, and immediate descent is the primary remedy if symptoms worsen.

Connectivity & Electricity

• Electricity is available in most lower villages for charging.
• Higher sections may have limited or no charging facilities.
• Mobile networks work in lower areas but become patchy as you ascend.

Carrying a power bank is recommended.

Travel Insurance

Every trekker should have insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 5,000m), including emergency rescue and helicopter evacuation.
This is essential due to the remoteness of the route.

Trekking Costs

Costs typically cover:

• Transportation
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Guide and porter services
• Permits
• Gear (sleeping bag, duffle bag)
• Taxes and service charges

Exact cost varies by us, group size and season.

Highlights of the Trek

• Historic trail used for the first ascent of Annapurna I
• Peaceful and uncrowded Himalayan landscapes
• Authentic Gurung and Magar villages
• Glacial valleys and dramatic mountain terrain
• Rare access to Annapurna’s north face