Trip Overview
North Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Discover two of Nepal’s most remarkable Himalayan experiences in one carefully designed 11-day journey: the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath and the remote, less-travelled trail to North Annapurna Base Camp.
Beginning in Kathmandu, this adventure takes you by air to Pokhara and onward through the dramatic Kali Gandaki valley to Muktinath. From there, you trek through traditional Thakali villages, including Jomsom and Marpha, before travelling to Humkhola—the gateway to the wild Annapurna North route.
The trek then leads into a pristine high-altitude landscape of forests, waterfalls, alpine meadows, glacial streams, and the beautiful Panchakunda Lake. You will camp beneath the towering Annapurna range and hike to North Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,190 m, enjoying close-up mountain views far from the busier trekking routes.
This program is ideal for trekkers seeking a mix of culture, pilgrimage, scenic village life, and true wilderness camping. With a planned acclimatisation day, experienced guides, camping support, and a buffer day in Kathmandu, the itinerary balances adventure with safety and comfort.
Trip Highlights
- Visit Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations
- Trek through the scenic Kali Gandaki valley from Muktinath to Marpha
- Explore Jomsom and the traditional Thakali village of Marpha
- Journey into the remote Humkhola and Narchyang region
- Camp beside Panchakunda Lake at around 4,050 m
- Reach North Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,190 m
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna massif and surrounding Himalayan peaks
- Experience a combination of lodge stays, homestays, and high-altitude camping
- Travel with professional guides, support staff, and a carefully paced itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and meet your representative. Transfer to your hotel and complete check-in. Attend a short briefing about permits, gear, safety, and the following day’s schedule. Rest and prepare for the trip.
Early morning, flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then drive to Muktinath via Beni and Tatopani. Arrive in the afternoon and allow time to adjust to the higher elevation. Later on, visit the Muktinath temple area.
After breakfast, begin descending through the upper Kali Gandaki Valley and reach Jomsom, the administrative centre of Mustang. Then continue to Marpha, a traditional Thakali village known for stone houses, apple orchards, and local products. Explore the village and enjoy the boundless culture there.
After breakfast, leave Marpha early and drive along the Kali Gandaki route. Pass through Jomsom, Kalopani, Ghasa, and Tatopani before turning towards Narchyang. Continue by jeep to Humkhola, the trailhead for the North Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Start the trek after breakfast, following the valley and forest trail. Pass waterfalls, small settlements, and elevated viewpoints along the route. Climb steadily to Busket Mela, a remote camping area below the higher Annapurna North Trail. Settle down at the homestay or tented hotel.
Trek gradually toward the high campsite near Panchakunda Lake. Later, cross rocky paths, alpine terrain, and open mountain landscapes. Reach camp by early afternoon to allow time for rest and acclimatisation. Keep hydration high and avoid strenuous activity after arrival.
Hike towards North Annapurna Base Camp, passing Panchakunda Lake and high glacier viewpoints. Spend time enjoying mountain views before returning to camp.
After breakfast, descend from the campsite through Busket Mela and the forested valley route. Arrive at Humkhola and take a short rest. Then drive from Humkhola to Narchyang.
After breakfast, drive from Narchyang through Tatopani and Beni to Pokhara. Catch a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Keep this day flexible for weather delays, road disruptions, or flight changes. Optional sightseeing may include Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Patan Durbar Square, or Thamel. Rest before your journey home.
Our representative will transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight time.
