Annapurna North Base Camp Trek - 12 Days

Annapurna-North-Base-camp-trek
  • Duration12 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trek
  • Maximum Altitude 4,200 m
  • Activity Hiking
  • Group Size 1 - 20
  • Accommodation Teahouse/ Hotel
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Best Season March–May and September–November

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is a rare and rewarding adventure that leads trekkers into the raw, unspoiled wilderness of the less-explored northern face of the iconic Annapurna I. Designed for those who crave solitude, history, and natural grandeur, this trek follows the footsteps of the pioneering French expedition led by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal, the first peoples to expedition an 8000 meter peak of Annapurna I (8091m) on June 3, 1950.

An Untouched Route with Historic Echoes

Long before modern mountaineering captured global imagination, Herzog’s team braved unknown terrain and deadly conditions without supplemental oxygen to reach the top of Annapurna I. Their daring descent through blizzards, avalanches, and freezing storms marked a defining chapter in Himalayan exploration. Today, trekkers can trace parts of that legendary journey on the Maurice Herzog Trail, culminating at the Annapurna North Base Camp, also known as the French North Face Route.

Unlike the crowded southern routes, the northern approach remains wild, remote, and virtually untouched. Few have ventured here, making this trail ideal for those seeking a serene trekking experience far from commercial circuits.

Trek Itinerary Overview

The Adventure begins from Pokhara, with a scenic drive to Tatopani, a natural hot spring. From there, you ascend through Narchyang Village, Chhotema, Kalokhola, and Phulbari, navigating toward the remote pastures near base camp. By day 9, you reach the North Base Camp of Annapurna I. The return journey, which takes about 3-4 days, can loop through Lete in Mustang, offering a unique conclusion to your adventure.

What Makes the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek Unique?

Unlike the popular Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp (South), the north side of Annapurna I is wild, less inhabited, and still mostly untouched by mass tourism. The trail leads into the Myagdi Valley, winding through thick forests, glacial rivers, traditional Magar settlements, and finally to the foot of Annapurna's north face, which towers like a fortress of ice and stone.

This is not just a trek, it’s a historical pilgrimage. In 1950, Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal of the French team blazed this very route. Today, only a handful of trekkers reach this isolated base camp each year, making it a hidden gem for true adventure lovers.

Why Choose the Annapurna North Face Trek?

If you're drawn to routes less travelled, crave real adventure, and seek to connect with the spirit of early Himalayan exploration, this trek is for you. With no crowds, uninterrupted landscapes, and a deep sense of mountain heritage, the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek offers an experience that's as enriching as it is unforgettable.

While the southern base camp is stunning, it’s also crowded, commercialized, and saturated with trekkers and guesthouses. On the other hand, the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek offers:

  • Real solitude: You may not see another trekker for days.

  • Tented camping under the stars: Sleep in total wilderness, surrounded by glaciers.

  • Unfiltered nature: Spot wildlife like musk deer, Himalayan tahr, langurs, and even snow leopards.

  • Cultural authenticity: Visit the untouched Magar villages, where life remains traditional and deeply rooted in the land.

For trekkers wanting a deeper connection with the Himalayas, this is the path less taken.

Who Is This Trek Ideal For?

This trek is perfect for:

  • Experienced trekkers seeking remote Himalayan routes.

  • History buffs want to follow the original Annapurna summit trail.

  • Nature lovers who crave wildlife, solitude, and wilderness.

  • Adventure seekers who are physically fit and can handle basic camping conditions.

This trek is not ideal for those looking for luxury lodges or easy access to food and Wi-Fi. It’s a raw, immersive journey that demands both respect and resilience.

How Difficult Is the Trek?

This is a moderate to strenuous trek. It doesn’t reach extreme altitudes like Everest or Kanchenjunga, but the remoteness, lack of facilities, and steep forested trails demand physical and mental stamina.

Daily trekking hours range from 5 to 7 hours, and accommodation will mostly be in tents, not teahouses. You’ll also need to carry enough food and supplies due to the lack of shops after the first couple of days.

A certified local guide, proper camping support, and a reliable itinerary with acclimatization days are essential.

What Permits Are Required?

You’ll need the following:

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) 

  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)

  • Valid passport and travel insurance (high-altitude coverage recommended)

Your trekking agency or guide will handle the paperwork, but make sure you carry multiple photocopies of your documents.

The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is a raw, soul-stirring Himalayan experience that strips trekking back to its purest form. No crowds, no commercial hype—just you, the trail, and one of the most majestic peaks in the world watching over you.

For those who want to step off the tourist trail, connect deeply with nature, and tread where legends walk, this 12-day journey delivers on every front.

Highlights
  • Untouched Wilderness: Venture through pristine alpine meadows, whispering rhododendron forests, and secluded river valleys. This untouched northern trail offers raw Himalayan beauty at every turn.
  • The Panoramic Vistas: Stand in awe before a jaw-dropping panorama of Himalayan giants Annapurna, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and  Hiunchuli rising like sentinels above the clouds.
  • Historic Footsteps: Walk the path of legends along the Maurice Herzog Trail the very route taken by the first climbers to summit an 8000-meter peak. Feel the echo of history beneath your boots.
  • Authentic Expedition Adventure: With no commercial lodges, this is pure, unfiltered trekking. Camp under the stars, cook in the wild, and immerse yourself in nature  ideal for photographers, filmmakers, and true adventurers.
  • Cultural Insight: Connect with the heart of the Himalayas through the warmth of the Gurung people. Share stories, traditions, and smiles in remote mountain villages rich in heritage.
Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal, our team will be waiting for you. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, or unwind with a traditional Nepali dinner.

  • Max. Altitude:1,400m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Dinner

Early in the morning, we start a scenic 7-8 hour drive that takes you along rivers, terraced fields, and picturesque hills to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region's trek. Settle in by the Phewa Lake and prepare for your trek.

  • Max. Altitude:822m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:7 - 8 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs. The trek begins here as you ascend gradually to the beautiful Gurung village of Upper Narchyang, nestled against the backdrop of the Himalayas.

  • Max. Altitude:1,243m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5 hours drive then 6 hours hike
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s trail leads through lush rhododendron forests and remote hamlets. The peaceful path brings you to Chhotepa, a quiet stopover surrounded by natural beauty.

  • Max. Altitude:2,369m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gain elevation as you trek deeper into the wild. The trail is rich in biodiversity and mountain views. Camp at SandhiKharka, an open meadow with expansive alpine scenery.

  • Max. Altitude:3,165m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6 - 7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A challenging yet spectacular day. The final ascent takes you to the Annapurna North Base Camp, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri, a truly unforgettable Himalayan experience.

  • Max. Altitude:4,190m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After sunrise at the base camp, begin your descent back to SandhiKharka. Take in the incredible views from a new perspective and rest after the day’s adventure.

  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Continue the return journey with a different route through Thulo Bugin, a high pastureland often used by herders. The area offers quiet solitude and panoramic ridge-line views.

  • Max. Altitude:3,500m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Descend through forests and hills to the scenic village of Lete, located in the Mustang region. This is a great place to observe the transition between the lush southern and arid northern landscapes.

  • Max. Altitude:2,010m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, a bumpy yet rewarding jeep ride takes you back to Pokhara, where you can enjoy a hot shower, relax by the lake, and celebrate your successful trek.

  • Accommodation:TeahouseHotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Return to Kathmandu by private vehicle or tourist bus. The drive offers one last look at Nepal’s diverse countryside. enjoy a farewell dinner.

  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home or continue with your next adventure. Namaste, and thank you for trekking with us!

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport transfers. Pick up and drop off 
  • Hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
  • Hotel in Pokhara, including breakfast.
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) on trek.
  • Accommodations in lodges on the trek.
  • A guide & porters (1 porter for each 2 trekkers, and a porter carries about 20-22 KG for 2 of you).
  • Paperwork, National park entry permits, & TIMS permit.
  • Ground transportation Kathmandu – Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist bus.
  • sharing ground transportation from Pokhara to the trek start point and from the end to Pokhara 
  • Arrangement of emergency Helicopter service, which your travel insurance company will pay.
  • duffel bag, Cap, and Map for Trek 
  • Exclusive Medical Kit Bag.
  • Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu
  • Trekking Achievement Certificate
Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport - Kathmandu).
  • Your Travel insurance (compulsory).
  • Meals (lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara).
  • Your personal expenses, drink water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills.
  • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge.
  • Entrance Fees while visiting Kathmandu and Pokhara monuments 
  • Tips for the guide and porters.
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section.