The South Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal's most rewarding Himalayan adventures, taking trekkers through traditional mountain villages, forests, waterfalls, suspension bridges and dramatic alpine landscapes before reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres.
Starting from Kathmandu or Pokhara, the direct South ABC route passes through Jhinu Danda, Chhomrong, Lower Sinuwa, Upper Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, Himalaya, Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) before finally reaching Annapurna Base Camp (ABC).
Travellers considering alternative approaches can compare the routes in our North vs South Annapurna Base Camp trek guide.
Along the journey, trekkers experience changing landscapes, increasingly impressive mountain views and the beautiful surroundings of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
This complete South ABC Trek guide for 2027 explains the route, elevation of each location, estimated walking times, accommodation options, hotel contact numbers, transportation costs, weather, meals and practical trekking advice.
The walking times and several practical observations in this guide come from first-hand trekking experience shared with Hop Nepal. Additional information on permits, elevations and high-altitude safety has been checked against published sources.
South ABC Trek Overview
- Destination: Annapurna Base Camp, Nepal
- Maximum elevation: 4,130 metres
- Starting point: Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Trekking starting point: Jhinu Danda area
- Main route: Jhinu → Chhomrong → Sinuwa → Bamboo → Dovan → Himalaya → Deurali → MBC → ABC
- Return route: ABC → MBC → Deurali → Himalaya → Dovan → Bamboo → Sinuwa → Chhomrong → Jhinu
- Fast-paced itinerary: 5 Nights / 6 Days, including travel from Kathmandu
- Recommended approach: Allow additional trekking and acclimatisation days where needed
- Accommodation: Teahouses, guesthouses and trekking lodges
- Food: Meals available at trekking lodges
- Transportation: Bus, shared jeep or private vehicle, followed by trekking
- Popular trekking seasons: Spring and autumn
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, depending on fitness, pace, weather and itinerary
South ABC Trek Route Map and Elevation
Understanding the elevation of each location is important when planning your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
The major locations along the route are:
- Kathmandu: Approximately 1,350 m
- Pokhara: Approximately 820 m
- Jhinu Danda: Approximately 1,780 m
- Chhomrong: Approximately 2,150 m
- Lower Sinuwa: Approximately 2,200 m
- Upper Sinuwa: Approximately 2,350 m
- Bamboo: Approximately 2,300 m
- Dovan: Approximately 2,600 m
- Himalaya: Approximately 2,870 m
- Deurali: Approximately 3,200 m
- Machhapuchhre Base Camp: Approximately 3,700 m
- Annapurna Base Camp: 4,130 m
These are approximate settlement elevations. Figures may vary slightly depending on the exact lodge location, trekking map or GPS reading.
Although Annapurna Base Camp is the highest destination, the trail does not climb continuously. There are several uphill and downhill sections, particularly around Chhomrong and Sinuwa.
South ABC Trek 5 Nights / 6 Days Itinerary
The following six-day schedule illustrates the fast-paced route from Kathmandu to Annapurna Base Camp and back.
Important: This is a demanding itinerary. In particular, the overnight ascent from Deurali to ABC is faster than general high-altitude acclimatisation recommendations. It should not be treated as a suitable standard itinerary for beginners or unacclimatised trekkers. An extended itinerary with additional nights is preferable when necessary. For an option with more time between overnight stops, explore our 13-day Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
The journey begins with road transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara, one of Nepal's main starting points for Annapurna-region treks.
Travellers can use a tourist bus or arrange private transportation.
After arriving in Pokhara, trekkers can prepare their bags, check their trekking equipment and make arrangements for the journey towards Jhinu Danda.
Overnight: Pokhara
Day 2: Pokhara to Jhinu Danda, Chhomrong and Upper Sinuwa
The second day begins with a drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda.
Based on Hop Nepal's experience with this route, the drive takes approximately three hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Available transportation options include:
- Local bus: Approximately NPR 700 per person
- Shared jeep: Approximately NPR 1,000 per person
These are indicative fares reported from trekking experience, not guaranteed 2027 prices.
Jhinu Danda is the road-access area used for this direct ABC itinerary. The exact vehicle drop-off point may change depending on road and bridge conditions.
One memorable part of beginning the trek is crossing a suspension bridge.
From the Jhinu area, trekkers continue towards Chhomrong, Lower Sinuwa and Upper Sinuwa.
Estimated walking times:
- Jhinu to Chhomrong: 3 hours
- Chhomrong to Lower Sinuwa: 2 hours
- Lower Sinuwa to Upper Sinuwa: 1 hour
Total estimated trekking time: Approximately 6 hours, excluding extended breaks.
The trail involves stone staircases, uphill walking and downhill sections. Some trekkers find climbing more tiring, while others struggle more with descending.
Upper Sinuwa is a possible overnight destination for this fast-paced itinerary.
Overnight: Upper Sinuwa
Day 3: Upper Sinuwa to Bamboo, Dovan, Himalaya and Deurali
The third day passes through some of the most beautiful forest sections of the ABC route.
From Upper Sinuwa, the trail continues through Bamboo, Dovan and Himalaya before reaching Deurali.
Along the way, trekkers encounter forest scenery, streams, waterfalls and changing vegetation.
Estimated walking times:
- Upper Sinuwa to Bamboo: 2 hours
- Bamboo to Dovan: 2 hours
- Dovan to Himalaya: 2 hours
- Himalaya to Deurali: 2 hours
Total estimated trekking time: Approximately 8 hours, excluding extended breaks.
Deurali lies at approximately 3,200 metres, where temperatures generally become colder and high-altitude considerations become increasingly important.
This is a long walking day. Trekkers should assess their condition and avoid rushing merely to reach the planned overnight destination.
Overnight: Deurali
Day 4: Deurali to MBC and Annapurna Base Camp
The route from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp enters the higher Himalayan landscape.
The terrain becomes more open as trekkers move towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp, approximately 3,700 metres above sea level.
From MBC, the trail continues towards Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres.
Estimated walking times:
- Deurali to MBC: 5 hours
- MBC to ABC: 2 hours
Total estimated walking time: Approximately 7 hours.
These times reflect the experience supplied for this guide, not a guaranteed pace.
Reaching Annapurna Base Camp is the highlight of the trek. The Annapurna Sanctuary is surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks, offering a memorable setting for mountain photography and sightseeing.
However, the Deurali-to-ABC route involves an overnight sleep-elevation gain of approximately 930 metres. This exceeds general recommendations for gradual ascent above 3,000 metres.
Trekkers who are not adequately acclimatised should not follow this overnight plan simply to complete a six-day schedule. An additional overnight stop, such as MBC, may help create a more gradual itinerary, although further acclimatisation planning may still be required.
Overnight option for a fast itinerary: Annapurna Base Camp, only when appropriate for the trekker's acclimatisation and condition.
Day 5: Annapurna Base Camp Sunrise and Return to Upper Sinuwa or Chhomrong
Annapurna Base Camp is particularly beautiful during sunrise, when early sunlight illuminates the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
After enjoying the views, trekkers begin descending along the same route.
The return passes through MBC, Deurali, Himalaya, Dovan and Bamboo before continuing towards Upper Sinuwa or Chhomrong.
Reported return walking times:
- ABC to Upper Sinuwa: Approximately 6–7 hours
- ABC to Chhomrong: Approximately 8 hours
These figures are individual experience-based estimates. They should not be assumed achievable by every trekker, particularly given the length of the return route and the walking times for the individual uphill sections.
The descent may feel easier than climbing for some people, but it can still be physically demanding.
A longer break, an earlier overnight stop, or an additional day may be necessary.
Overnight: Upper Sinuwa, Chhomrong or an earlier suitable location depending on conditions.
Day 6: Upper Sinuwa or Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda, Pokhara and Kathmandu
The final day begins with the descent towards Jhinu Danda.
Trekkers staying in Upper Sinuwa continue through Lower Sinuwa and Chhomrong before reaching Jhinu.
Based on the provided walking estimates, the distance from Upper Sinuwa to Jhinu is approximately 6 hours, and from Chhomrong to Jhinu approximately 3 hours.
From the Jhinu road-access area, travellers can return to Pokhara by shared jeep or local bus.
The drive takes approximately three hours under the conditions reported by Hop Nepal.
After arriving in Pokhara, travellers have two options:
- Stay overnight in Pokhara and return to Kathmandu the following day.
- Take a night bus towards Kathmandu, subject to the available schedule and road conditions.
The second option is suitable only if the trekking day finishes early enough and a confirmed onward bus service is available. Travellers with additional time can also compare our 10-day budget Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Complete South ABC Trek Walking Times: Location by Location
The following walking times are based on practical trekking experience.
Jhinu Danda to Chhomrong
- Walking time: Approximately 3 hours
- Destination elevation: 2,150 m
- Trail: Suspension bridge access, uphill paths and stone staircases
Chhomrong is an important settlement along the ABC route, offering mountain views and accommodation.
Chhomrong to Lower Sinuwa
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Destination elevation: Approximately 2,200 m
- Trail: Downhill and uphill stone staircases
This section includes elevation changes that make the walk more demanding than a simple comparison of starting and ending heights would suggest.
Lower Sinuwa to Upper Sinuwa
- Walking time: Approximately 1 hour
- Destination elevation: Approximately 2,350 m
- Trail: Ascending mountain paths
Upper Sinuwa offers trekking accommodation and access to the forest trail towards Bamboo.
Upper Sinuwa to Bamboo
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Destination elevation: Approximately 2,300 m
- Trail: Forest paths with changing elevation
The route passes through a quieter, more forested section of the trek.
Bamboo to Dovan
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Destination elevation: Approximately 2,600 m
- Trail: Forested mountain trail
Dovan is another important accommodation stop along the route.
Dovan to Himalaya
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Destination elevation: Approximately 2,870 m
- Trail: Gradually ascending terrain
Waterfalls and surrounding mountain scenery are among the highlights of this section.
Himalaya to Deurali
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Destination elevation: Approximately 3,200 m
- Trail: Higher-altitude mountain terrain
Temperatures become colder as trekkers climb towards Deurali.
Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp
- Walking time: Approximately 5 hours
- Destination elevation: Approximately 3,700 m
- Trail: Exposed high-altitude terrain
Weather, snow conditions and avalanche exposure must be considered before continuing.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
- Destination elevation: 4,130 m
- Trail: High-altitude alpine route
The final approach takes trekkers into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
South ABC Trek Temperature and Weather Guide for 2027
Weather is one of the most important considerations when planning the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Temperatures change significantly with altitude, season, time of day and weather conditions.
The following are broad October planning estimates for groups of locations, not measured temperatures at individual lodges and not a forecast for 2027.
Pokhara and Lower Trekking Areas
In October, the Pokhara area may experience daytime temperatures around 20–25°C and nighttime temperatures around 12–15°C.
Jhinu Danda and Chhomrong are higher and generally cooler. Broad October trekking estimates for these elevations are approximately 12–20°C during the day and 5–10°C at night.
Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, Himalaya and Deurali
Conditions become cooler with increasing altitude.
Broad October guidance for this part of the route suggests daytime temperatures of roughly 10–15°C across parts of the higher forest and mountain corridor, with nighttime temperatures potentially reaching around 0–5°C.
Actual temperatures vary considerably across locations, and Upper Sinuwa is not necessarily as cold as Deurali.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp
At approximately 3,700 metres, MBC is substantially colder than the lower trekking villages.
October daytime temperatures may be around 10°C under favourable conditions, while nighttime temperatures can fall below freezing.
Annapurna Base Camp
At 4,130 metres, ABC experiences colder conditions, particularly at night and early in the morning.
During October, daytime temperatures can be near 10°C in favourable sunshine, while nighttime temperatures may fall to approximately -5°C to -8°C or lower.
These values are illustrative seasonal estimates. Trekkers should check current mountain forecasts before departing.
Best Time for the South ABC Trek
Spring (March to May): A popular trekking season with generally milder conditions and seasonal mountain vegetation.
Monsoon (June to September): Rain, slippery trails, cloud cover and possible transport disruptions require additional precautions.
Autumn (October to November): A popular season for Himalayan trekking, often associated with clearer mountain views and relatively favourable weather.
Winter (December to February): Cold conditions and snowfall may affect higher sections of the route, including access towards MBC and ABC.
During an October ABC trek described to Hop Nepal, the weather was clear and the surrounding mountains were visible. However, no particular weather conditions can be guaranteed for future departures. For a month-by-month comparison, read our best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp guide.
Hotels, Lodges and Guest Houses Along the South ABC Trek
Accommodation is available at several settlements between Jhinu Danda and Annapurna Base Camp.
Most trekking accommodation along the route consists of guesthouses, teahouses, and lodges that serve trekkers.
The following directory contains 72 hotel, lodge, guesthouse and restaurant listings across 10 trekking locations.
The property names and telephone numbers were transcribed from trekking photographs supplied to Hop Nepal. They have not all been independently verified for current operation, ownership, contact accuracy or availability in 2027.
Travellers should contact the properties directly before relying on the information.
Hotels and Guest Houses in Jhinu Danda
Elevation: approximately 1,780 metres
Jhinu Danda is a useful starting and ending location for the South ABC route and is known for its hot springs.
Accommodation directory:
1. Namaste Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9856008888, 9846267024
2. Tibet Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846306024, 9848257645
3. Hotel Evergreen & Restaurant
Contact: 9856031459, 9846148858
4. Jhinu Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846290270, 9866099318
5. Hut Spring Cottage & Restaurant
Contact: 9866009975, 9846999946
6. Gurung Cottage & Restaurant
Contact: 9846394428, 9856036459
7. Green View Restaurant (Upper Jhinu)
Contact: 9825144411, 9867358032
8. Machhapuchhre View Point Homestay & Restaurant (Upper Jhinu)
Contact: 9846465988, 9863512910
Hotels and Guest Houses in Chhomrong
Elevation: approximately 2,150 metres
Chhomrong is one of the major villages on the direct ABC route and offers a number of accommodation and dining options.
Accommodation directory:
1. Heaven View Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9741786419, 9846459051
2. Panorama Point Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846978430, 9851048487
3. Fishtail Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9864372469, 9745457684
4. Himalaya View Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9856048888
5. Excellent View Top Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9856048777, 9856017888
6. International Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846107026, 9846728166
7. Kalpana Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846086194, 9856038149
8. Mountain View Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9861503261, 9869213842
9. Lucky Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9840152548, 9846054685
10. Monalisa Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9860232784
11. Chhomrong Cottage & Restaurant
Contact: 9846756209, 9864379428
12. Elysium Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9866544324, 9846280528
13. New Chhomrong Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9856066344, 9856036343, 9840603308
14. Hotel Alpine & Restaurant
Contact: 9846512738, 9748401871
15. Real Chhomrong Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9863376854, 9844426864
16. Millennium Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846623995, 9844914725
17. Smriti German Bakery & Coffee Shop
Contact: 9863490052
18. Garden Villa Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9843247465, 9840778917
19. New Destination Hotel & Restaurant
Contact: 9856044245, 9846469596
Hotels and Guest Houses in Lower Sinuwa
Elevation: approximately 2,200 metres
Lower Sinuwa is an important stop between Chhomrong and Upper Sinuwa.
Accommodation directory:
1. Brother Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9745452960, 9866346852
2. Super View Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9742928313, 9848568356
3. Organic Food & Beverage Restaurant
Contact: 9846464165, 9867795749
4. Kalpana Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9741935956, 9856038149
5. Nepali Restaurant
Contact: 9869093937
6. Hotel Himal & Restaurant
Contact: 9867060232, 9864371767, 9845286543
7. Real Sinuwa Cottage Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846004266, 9860409015, 9816676425
8. Preeti Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846342258, 9866099316
9. Sherpa Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846374467, 9846740944
10. Muna Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9819134937, 9865093172
Hotels and Guest Houses in Upper Sinuwa
Elevation: approximately 2,350 metres
Upper Sinuwa is a possible overnight stop for trekkers following the direct ABC route.
Accommodation directory:
1. Hill Top Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9847023138, 9860198011
2. Sinuwa Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9748211423, 9856017499, 9860668684
3. Sinuwa Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846262409, 9766028007, 9846785834
4. Silent Peak Restaurant
Contact: 9846623995, 9846719276
Hotels and Guest Houses in Bamboo
Elevation: approximately 2,300 metres
Bamboo is a forested settlement offering trekking accommodation and meals.
Accommodation directory:
1. Buddha Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9766015164, 9846257607
2. Bamboo Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846318952, 9846290080, 9816146335
3. Trekking Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9867060232, 9762864742, 9846211474
4. Bamboo Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9824173809, 9865535290, 9866007682
5. Green View Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846257879, 9814148911, 9846262669, 9846767977
6. Eco Friendly Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846855161, 9863427465
7. Sunshine Restaurant (Diglyo)
Contact: 9846358890
8. Hill Top Restaurant (Durbin Danda)
Contact: 9846303436
Hotels and Guest Houses in Dovan
Elevation: approximately 2,600 metres
Dovan is located between Bamboo and Himalaya and provides accommodation for trekkers travelling in either direction.
Accommodation directory:
1. Dovan Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9840778715, 9846523411, 9856084784, 9819138887
2. Annapurna Approach Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9745283198, 9816155501, 9806563165
3. Tip Top Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 061-621655, 9846027793, 9861298703, 9846290256
4. Destination ABC Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846257685, 9856044245, 9847428381
5. Green Land Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9749433227
Hotels and Guest Houses in Himalaya
Elevation: approximately 2,870 metres
Himalaya is a trekking settlement between Dovan and Deurali.
Accommodation directory:
1. Himalaya Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9766027283, 9856077006, 9866594772
2. Hotel Himalaya & Restaurant
Contact: 9856483392, 9844901748
3. Hotel Royal Family & Restaurant
Contact: 9861355596, 9846263819
Hotels and Guest Houses in Deurali
Elevation: approximately 3,200 metres
Deurali is an important high-altitude stop before the trail continues towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Accommodation directory:
1. New Panorama Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846257775, 9851196854, 9845523999
2. Dream Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9863500218, 9846287693, 9849644814
3. Shangrila Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9862385328, 9840679043
4. Hotel View Point Deurali & Restaurant
Contact: 9746304090, 9846359832
5. Deurali Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846280870, 9866050425
Hotels and Guest Houses in Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC)
Elevation: approximately 3,700 metres
Machhapuchhre Base Camp lies between Deurali and Annapurna Base Camp and is an important stop for high-altitude trekking.
Accommodation directory:
1. Fishtail Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9856069055, 9856035086, 9846343315, 9846037924
2. Shankar Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846454579, 9866343292, 9846293225
3. Gurung Co-operative Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846605439, 9869141256
4. Machhapuchhre Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846257774, 9762868430
5. Gangapurna View Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846214351, 9745449332, 9846812328
Hotels and Guest Houses in Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
Elevation: 4,130 metres
Annapurna Base Camp is the final destination of the South ABC Trek and offers high-altitude trekking accommodation.
Accommodation directory:
1. Annapurna Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9846063557, 9844920552, 9816185828
2. Annapurna Sanctuary Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9846397742, 9846923397, 9869024053
3. Snowland Lodge & Restaurant
Contact: 9817127508, 9856011426
4. Hotel Paradise Garden & Restaurant
Contact: 9846605439, 9869141256
5. Sunrise Guest House & Restaurant
Contact: 9869093628, 9866099316
Accommodation notice: Property availability, phone numbers, room facilities and prices may change before 2027. Contact the lodges before making arrangements, especially during popular trekking months.
How Much Do Food and Accommodation Cost on the ABC Trek?
Accommodation expenses depend on the location, type of arrangement, season and facilities included. To estimate other expenses, see our guide and porter cost breakdown for a wider view of trekking support costs.
Based on package-style lodging costs reported from trekking experience, the following amounts provide an indicative reference:
Sinuwa
Approximately NPR 2,300 per person.
Deurali
Approximately NPR 2,500–3,000 per person.
Annapurna Base Camp
Approximately NPR 3,000 per person.
The quoted package-style rates included:
- Overnight accommodation
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Tea
- Wi-Fi
- Limited hot water
Lunch was not included in these accommodation package figures.
These rates reflect previous arrangements and should not be presented as fixed or guaranteed prices for 2027. Different hotels may offer different services, and some facilities may be unavailable due to weather, power outages, or local operating conditions. Before comparing package prices, check our guide to choosing a trekking agency in Nepal to understand what may be included or excluded.
How Much Does Food Cost?
Based on the trekking experience provided for this guide, individual meals may cost approximately NPR 500–800, depending on the dish and location.
Food prices tend to be influenced by the settlement's remoteness and the cost of transporting supplies.
Trekkers should always review the menu and confirm meal prices before ordering.
Are Hot Showers Available?
Hot-water availability varies between lodges.
Some accommodation packages may include a limited amount of hot water, while additional hot showers or other services can require payment.
Travellers should confirm these arrangements directly with their lodge.
Is Wi-Fi Available Along the ABC Trek?
Wi-Fi may be included in some accommodation arrangements.
However, availability, connection speed and reliability depend on the lodge and local conditions.
Do not rely on continuous internet access throughout the trek.
Which Mobile Network Works on the ABC Trek?
During the October trek described to Hop Nepal, NTC provided a useful mobile network connection on parts of the route.
This is a personal observation rather than a coverage guarantee or endorsement.
Coverage may be weak or unavailable in some sections, so trekkers should save maps, contact numbers and important documents offline. Our best travel apps for Nepal guide also covers offline navigation tools.
Should You Book ABC Trek Lodges in Advance?
Yes. Advance accommodation arrangements are advisable during popular trekking periods, particularly in spring and autumn.
Rooms at smaller settlements may fill quickly, and higher-altitude locations have more limited accommodation choices.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permit Fees for 2027
The South ABC route passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, where applicable entry permits are required.
According to the published Nepal Tourism Board fee schedule available at the time of writing, the Annapurna Conservation Area entry fees are:
- Nepali citizens: NPR 100
- SAARC nationals, including Indian citizens: NPR 1,000
- Other foreign nationals: NPR 3,000
Children below 10 years of age are listed as exempt.
These are currently published fees, not confirmed 2027 prices. Travellers should check for updated fees and requirements before their departure.
Additional trekking documentation, including TIMS requirements where applicable, must also be checked against the precise route and current rules.
The Nepal Tourism Board identifies specific trekking routes subject to licensed-guide and TIMS requirements. The published list includes the Poon Hill–ABC Trek, but rules should not automatically be assumed identical for every ABC itinerary.
Hop Nepal can assist trekkers with identifying the relevant requirements and arranging a licensed guide. For additional context on route-specific rules, see trekking in Nepal with a guide or without.
Is the South ABC Trek Difficult?
The South ABC Trek involves repeated uphill climbs, downhill sections, stone staircases and walking at elevations above 3,000 metres.
The difficulty depends on the individual trekker, walking pace, weather and itinerary.
During the trek described in this guide, some sections were more tiring on the ascent, while others required more effort on the descent.
The return from ABC to Upper Sinuwa or Chhomrong was physically demanding despite being mostly downhill.
Trekkers should follow a pace that allows them to walk comfortably and take breaks.
Can Beginners Complete the South ABC Trek?
Beginners with suitable preparation may be able to complete a carefully planned Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
However, they should not assume that the fast-paced 5N/6D version is suitable for them.
A more gradual route with additional nights allows greater flexibility for walking, recovery and altitude acclimatisation.
Altitude Sickness on the South ABC Trek
Annapurna Base Camp reaches 4,130 metres, where altitude illness is a genuine concern.
Being physically fit does not eliminate the risk.
Trekkers should be alert to symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness and unusual fatigue, especially after gaining altitude.
Do not continue ascending to sleep at a higher altitude when symptoms of altitude sickness are developing.
Worsening symptoms, confusion, loss of coordination or breathlessness at rest require urgent medical attention and descent, with assistance where needed. For preparation and warning signs, refer to our high-altitude trekking safety guide.
A licensed trekking guide can help monitor conditions and organise assistance, but a guide does not replace appropriate acclimatisation or medical care.
Important Safety Tips for the South ABC Trek
Walk at Your Own Pace
Not everyone walks at the same speed.
The estimated walking times in this guide are references based on previous trekking experience. They are not targets that every trekker must achieve.
Check the Weather Before Departing
Mountain conditions can change rapidly, even during popular trekking seasons.
Check current forecasts and local route information before setting out each day.
Take Extra Care Near Steep Drop-Offs
Some sections of the route pass near steep slopes and deep ravines.
Stay on established paths and avoid approaching exposed edges for photography.
Check Conditions Between Deurali and MBC
The higher section towards MBC can be affected by snowfall, ice and avalanche hazards.
Do not cross potentially dangerous terrain based only on previous experience or a fixed itinerary. Obtain the current local guidance and adjust the route or schedule as necessary.
Carry Suitable Trekking Equipment
Recommended essentials include:
- Comfortable trekking boots
- Warm jacket and thermal layers
- Waterproof outerwear
- Gloves and warm hat
- Trekking poles
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Personal first-aid supplies
- Personal medication
- Power bank
- Torch or headlamp
- Cash and identification
- Offline maps and important phone numbers
Keep Your Itinerary Flexible
Unfavourable weather, altitude symptoms, illness or slower walking speeds may require additional overnight stops.
Reaching Annapurna Base Camp safely is more important than completing the route within a particular number of days.
Frequently Asked Questions About the South ABC Trek
1. How high is Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp lies at approximately 4,130 metres above sea level.
2. How many days does the South ABC Trek take?
The duration depends on the starting point, trekking pace and overnight stops. Hop Nepal has outlined a fast-paced 5N/6D option from Kathmandu, but longer schedules may be more appropriate for acclimatisation and comfort.
3. Where does the South ABC Trek start?
For the direct road-access route described in this guide, travellers journey from Pokhara towards the Jhinu Danda area before continuing on foot.
4. How long does it take to drive from Pokhara to Jhinu?
Based on trekking experience, the drive takes approximately three hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
5. How much is the local bus from Pokhara to Jhinu?
The reported local bus fare was approximately NPR 700 per person. Confirm the current fare and exact drop-off point before travelling.
6. How much does a shared jeep cost?
The reported shared jeep fare was approximately NPR 1,000 per person. Actual prices may vary.
7. How long does it take to walk from Jhinu to Chhomrong?
The estimated walking time is approximately three hours.
8. How long does it take to walk from Chhomrong to Upper Sinuwa?
The estimated time is approximately three hours, including two hours to Lower Sinuwa and one hour onwards to Upper Sinuwa.
9. How long does it take to walk from Upper Sinuwa to Bamboo?
The estimated walking time is approximately two hours.
10. How long does it take to walk from Deurali to MBC?
The experience-based estimate supplied for this guide is approximately five hours.
11. How far is MBC from ABC in walking time?
The estimated walk from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp takes approximately two hours.
12. Can trekkers return from ABC to Upper Sinuwa in one day?
Some experienced trekkers may complete a long descent in one day. A time of six to seven hours was reported from personal trekking experience, but this should not be treated as achievable for everyone.
13. Can you return from ABC to Chhomrong in one day?
A return time of approximately eight hours was reported from the experience supplied for this guide. It is a demanding descent, and an additional overnight stop may be preferable.
14. Are hotels available at Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes. Trekking lodges operate at ABC, but capacity is limited and availability should be checked before travelling.
15. Are breakfast, lunch and dinner included in lodge packages?
It depends on the booking arrangement. The accommodation package rates shared for this guide included breakfast, dinner, tea and accommodation, but not lunch.
16. Can you get Wi-Fi and hot water on the ABC Trek?
Some lodges offer Wi-Fi and hot-water facilities, sometimes as part of a package or for an additional charge. Availability is not guaranteed at every location.
17. Is October a good month for the ABC Trek?
October is generally considered a popular month for autumn trekking. An October trip described to Hop Nepal experienced clear weather, although future conditions can vary.
18. Is the South ABC Trek suitable for beginners?
It can be suitable for prepared beginners following a realistic itinerary. Short, fast-paced schedules with significant daily altitude gains are not appropriate for everyone.
19. Do I need a trekking permit for Annapurna Base Camp?
Applicable Annapurna Conservation Area entry requirements must be met, with any additional documentation determined by the route, nationality and current rules.
20. Is a trekking guide necessary for the South ABC Trek?
A licensed trekking guide provides route knowledge, practical support and assistance with accommodation and safety planning. Travellers should also check the current legal requirements for their exact trekking route.
Plan Your South ABC Trek with Hop Nepal
The South ABC Trek offers a memorable opportunity to explore the Himalayas, experience traditional mountain hospitality and reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres.
From the suspension bridge near Jhinu Danda to the stone staircases of Chhomrong, the forest trails around Bamboo and Dovan, and the magnificent mountain views at Annapurna Base Camp, every section offers a different trekking experience.
Careful planning makes the journey more enjoyable.
Whether you are travelling from Kathmandu, Pokhara or overseas, Hop Nepal can assist with trekking itineraries, transportation arrangements, licensed guides, accommodation and trip planning. See our upcoming Nepal treks and departures for available trip options.
Explore Annapurna with Hop Nepal – Your Travel Partner.
Serving travellers since 2017.
Website: https://www.hopnepal.com
Email: service@hopnepal.com
Phone: +977-15915380/9812193787/9768569968 / 0291718861
