Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days from Pokhara – Guided Route

Summary

Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp: 5-Day Trekking Itinerary & Guide

If you want real mountain adventure without endless planning, this trek covers it all: high peaks, cozy lodges, local guides who know every shortcut—and food that hits just right after a long day hiking.

What’s the experience like?

It’s still dark when we pile into the jeep in Pokhara, rubbing sleep from our eyes. The air smells faintly of wood smoke as we bounce along to Morgue, just below Ghandruk. Our guide, Rajan, keeps us laughing through the chilly morning. Once we start walking, the path winds up past terraced fields and tiny villages—kids wave as we pass. By midday, the sun’s out and you can hear the river far below. Sinuwa comes into view after about six hours; it’s a small cluster of lodges perched above the valley. I remember my legs aching but feeling oddly proud at dinner that night—dal bhat never tasted so good.

The next day’s climb to Deurali is steeper and quieter. Rhododendron forests close in around us; sometimes you catch a whiff of damp earth or wild garlic. We stop for tea at Bamboo—no joke, that’s really what it’s called—and watch clouds drift over Machhapuchhre’s sharp peak. By late afternoon, Deurali feels almost hidden in mist. Locals say it gets cold fast here, so I’m glad for my extra fleece.

Day three is the big one: up to Annapurna Base Camp itself at 4,130 meters. We pass Machhapuchhre Base Camp first—there’s this moment where you turn a corner and suddenly all those snowy peaks are right there in front of you. The wind picks up and prayer flags snap overhead. At base camp, everyone just stands quietly for a bit; it’s hard not to feel small surrounded by all that rock and ice.

The way back down moves quicker but your knees will notice it! We retrace our steps to Sinuwa—eight or nine hours on foot but somehow easier going downhill (except for that last stretch). The guesthouse owner remembers us and brings out hot lemon tea without asking.

On the final morning, there’s time for one last look at the mountains before hiking back to Morgue. The drive to Pokhara feels surreal—one minute you’re deep in the hills, next you’re dodging scooters by Phewa Lake again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Drive and Trek to Sinuwa

• Drive to Morgue below Ghandruk
• Trek to Sinuwa (2340m) 5-6 hours

Day 2 — Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali

• Trek to Deurali (3230m) 5-6 hours

Day 3 — Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

• Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m) 4-5 hours

Day 4 — Return Trek to Sinuwa

• Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Sinuwa (2340m) 8-9 hours

Day 5 — Trek and Drive Back to Pokhara

• Trek from Sinuwa to Morgue 4-5 hours
• Drive to Pokhara 3 hours

Top questions

How difficult is this Annapurna Base Camp trek?

You’ll need decent fitness since some days are long with steep climbs and descents. Most folks with regular hiking experience manage fine if they pace themselves.

Are meals and accommodation included during the trek?

Yes—all your meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and simple guesthouse stays are covered while trekking.

Do I need special permits for this route?

Permits are required but don’t worry—they’re arranged for you as part of the package (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit & TIMS card).

Is there an English-speaking guide?

You’ll have an experienced local guide who speaks English well and knows the trails inside out.

Can I join if I’m traveling solo?

Solo travelers are welcome! You’ll likely join a small group or can request private arrangements if preferred.

What’s included

Your trip includes all trekking permits (ACAP & TIMS), an English-speaking guide plus porter support, three daily meals during the trek, basic lodge accommodation each night, private transport between Pokhara and Morgue both ways, plus government taxes and service charges.