North Annapurna Base Camp Trek (Maurice Herzog Trail), 8 Days

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by Swiss Family Treks and Expedition and transferred to hotel in Thamel. Kathmandu Valley offers a fascinating introduction to Nepal’s culture, history, and architecture. In the evening, a detailed trek briefing is held covering route conditions, safety, and expedition logistics. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu.

Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m/25 minutes) by plane and Drive to Tatopani (1,190m/4 hours) by private Jeep
After a scenic 25-minute flight with panoramic views of Langtang, Manaslu, and Annapurna ranges, arrive in Pokhara. From here, drive by private jeep along winding mountain roads following the Kali Gandaki River. The journey passes terraced hillsides, rural villages, and waterfalls before reaching Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs. Overnight at a Lodge/Guest-house in Tatopani.

Day 3: Drive from Tatopani to Hum Khola (2,883m/2 hours) by local Jeep and Trek to Bhusket Mela (3,551m/4-5 hours)
Today marks the transition from road travel to true wilderness. A local jeep drive takes you along rough, high-altitude tracks through narrow valleys and landslide-prone sections to Hum Khola. From here, the trek begins. The trail immediately climbs steeply, following a faint herders’ path through alpine scrub and rocky slopes. As you gain altitude, the terrain becomes more open and rugged, with expanding views of surrounding ridges and snow-covered peaks. After a sustained ascent, you reach Bhusket Mela, a high pasture used seasonally by local herders. Overnight at a Fixed Tented Camp in Bhusket Mela.

Day 4: Trek from Bhusket Mela to Pancha Kunda Lake (4,050m/3-4 hours) and Exploration to North Annapurna Base Camp (4,303m/2-3 hours)
This is the most rewarding and visually dramatic day of the trek. Leaving Bhusket Mela, the trail continues upward across glacial moraines, alpine grasslands, and barren rocky slopes. The ascent is steady but demanding, with thinner air and increasing exposure. As you approach Pancha Kunda Lake, the sacred high-altitude lake appears beneath towering cliffs and ice-covered slopes. From camp, a further hike leads toward the North Annapurna Base Camp, offering awe-inspiring views of the north face of Annapurna I, as well as surrounding peaks such as Nilgiri and Fang Peak. Massive glaciers, seracs, and icefalls dominate the landscape, giving a true expedition feel. After spending time at North ABC, return to Pancha Kunda Lake for the night. Overnight at a Fixed Tented Camp in Pancha Kunda Lake.

Day 5: Trek from Pancha Kunda Lake to Hum Khola (2,883m/5-6 hours) and Drive to Tatopani (1,190m/2 hours) by local Jeep
After sunrise views of Annapurna’s icy north face, begin a long descent back toward Hum Khola. The trail retraces the route through high alpine terrain before dropping steeply into lower valleys. The descent is physically easier but requires care on loose and rocky sections. Upon reaching Hum Khola, transfer to a local jeep and drive back to Tatopani. The change in climate and vegetation becomes noticeable as you descend, eventually returning to forested hillsides. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing soak in Tatopani’s natural hot springs. Overnight at a Lodge/Guest-house in Tatopani.

Day 6: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara (822m/4 hours) by private Jeep and Afternoon Hike to Pumdikot Shiva Temple and World Peace Stupa
Drive back to Pokhara by private jeep, enjoying views of rivers, terraced farmland, and traditional villages along the way. After arrival and some rest, take an afternoon hike to either Pumdikot Shiva Temple or the World Peace Stupa. The short hike climbs gradually through forest trails and village paths, rewarding you with sweeping views of Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara.

Day 7: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m/25 minutes) by plane 
Enjoy another scenic flight back to Kathmandu with mountain views on clear days. The remainder of the day is free for rest, sightseeing, or shopping for souvenirs. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu.

Day 8: Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your international departure. Our team will assist with final arrangements and bid you farewell.

# Pricing for Group Size Basis: (Private Trip)
All-inclusive Trek Price for 1pax (single/individual/solo); USD 1860
All-inclusive Trek Price for 2pax basis (couples/friends); USD 1255 per person
All-inclusive Trek Price for 3pax basis (small groups/families); USD 1230 per person
All-inclusive Trek Price for 4pax basis (small groups/families); USD 1095 per person

Customize Your Trek: This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please e-mail us at snftnepal@gmail.com or snftnepal@yahoo.de

Important: In case of emergency during the trip, Helicopter will be arranged by Swiss Himalayan Family Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. The charges must be paid by the clients themselves.

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