Annapurna
11 Days
Moderate
2-16 Persons
4190m.
Spring and Autumn
Trekking/Hiking
Hotel/Teahouse/Camping
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Private Vehicle
Kathmandu
Kathmandu
The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote, adventurous, and least-explored trekking routes, ideal for trekkers seeking true wilderness beyond the crowded Himalayan trails. Also known as the French North Face Route, this trek follows the historic path taken by the legendary French expedition led by Maurice Herzog in 1950—the first successful ascent of an 8,000-meter peak in history, Annapurna I (8,091 m).
Before Annapurna became a household name among mountaineers, Herzog’s team initially searched for a viable route to either Annapurna or Dhaulagiri. After finding Dhaulagiri too formidable, they redirected their efforts to Annapurna’s north face. Battling extreme weather, avalanches, and severe altitude challenges—without supplemental oxygen—the team achieved a historic summit and survived one of the most dramatic descents in mountaineering history.
Today, the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek has re-emerged as a hidden gem, gaining popularity after COVID-19 among adventure seekers who prefer off-the-beaten-path trekking. Unlike the busy Annapurna Base Camp (South) route, the northern side remains wild, untouched, and peaceful, offering an authentic Himalayan experience.
Adventure Friendship has carefully designed this unique itinerary for trekkers who crave solitude, raw landscapes, and cultural authenticity. The trek takes you through Gurung villages, dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and remote campsites, all while providing breathtaking views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna South.
As there are limited lodges beyond Upper Narchyang, the trek involves camping in high altitudes, making it more adventurous and rewarding. With experienced guides, cooks, and full logistical support, you can safely explore one of the most dramatic and least-traveled regions of the Annapurna Himalayas.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our airport representative and transferred to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. After check-in, you can rest and recover from your journey or take a short walk around the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.
In the evening, you will attend a detailed trek briefing, where your guide will explain the route, altitude considerations, safety measures, and equipment requirements. Final trek preparations and gear checks will be completed.
Overnight: 3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu
After an early breakfast, you will begin a scenic drive to Pokhara by tourist bus, which takes approximately 7–8 hours. The journey follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, passing terraced farmlands, lush hills, waterfalls, and traditional Nepali villages.
For those who prefer a quicker option, a 25-minute domestic flight to Pokhara can be arranged at an additional cost, offering spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax by Phewa Lake or explore the lakeside area.
Overnight: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
After breakfast, you will drive from Pokhara to Tatopani, following the dramatic Kali Gandaki River valley. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs, where you may enjoy a relaxing soak if time permits.
From Tatopani, your actual trek begins as you ascend gradually toward Upper Narchyang, a traditional Gurung village surrounded by terraced fields and forested hills. The trail offers insight into rural mountain life and local culture.
Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Upper Narchyang
This day marks the beginning of the more remote and rugged section of the trek. After breakfast, you will leave the village behind and walk through dense forests, stone staircases, and narrow mountain paths.
You will cross Lekhgaun, Ghalemdi, and Mristi Khola, passing waterfalls, grazing pastures, and pristine natural scenery. As there are no permanent lodges beyond this point, you will experience true wilderness trekking.
Overnight: Tented Camp or Local Homestay
Today’s trek continues through increasingly alpine terrain. The trail climbs gradually past streams, steep hillsides, and stunning waterfalls, offering breathtaking mountain views along the way.
You will pass through the remote settlement of Humkhola, a rarely visited area that highlights the isolation and beauty of the Annapurna North region. The day ends at Sadhi Kharka, an open meadow used as a seasonal campsite.
Overnight: Tented Camp
This is the most exciting and rewarding day of the entire trek. After an early start, you will hike uphill through glacial terrain toward the North Base Camp of Annapurna I.
As you gain altitude, the surrounding landscape becomes dramatic, with towering icefalls, rugged cliffs, and panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding peaks.
Upon reaching base camp, you will have time to explore, take photographs, and absorb the historic significance of this legendary mountaineering route.
Overnight: Tented Camp at Annapurna North Base Camp
After enjoying a sunrise view over the Himalayas, you will begin your descent from base camp. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and streams fed by melting glaciers.
This region is rich in biodiversity, and lucky trekkers may spot Himalayan birds, blue sheep, or other wildlife. The day is shorter and more relaxed, allowing time to enjoy the surroundings.
Overnight: Tented Camp at Busket Mela
Today’s trek takes you across the Thulo Bugin Pass, one of the highest and most scenic points on the route. From the pass, you descend toward the Mustang region, experiencing a noticeable change in landscape and climate.
If time, weather, and fitness allow, an optional hike to Titi Lake can be arranged. The trail then continues downhill to the village of Lete, located in the Kali Gandaki valley.
Overnight: Teahouse/Lodge in Lete
After breakfast, you will board a local jeep and drive back to Pokhara. The scenic drive offers final views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as you descend through river valleys and settlements.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can enjoy a relaxing evening, explore lakeside cafés, or take a boat ride on Phewa Lake.
Overnight: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
This morning, you will return to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The journey follows the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers and passes through lively market towns such as Damauli, Dumre, and Mugling.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free for last-minute shopping in Thamel or cultural exploration.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
According to your flight schedule, our team will arrange a private airport transfer approximately three hours before departure.
If you have extra time, optional sightseeing tours, short treks, or extensions to other destinations in Nepal can be organized.
Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
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| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
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| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
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| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
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| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
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| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
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| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
| Start Date | End Date | Price | Status | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry, no fixed departure dates are available. Please request a
| ||||
This trek is moderate to challenging and best suited for experienced trekkers due to long walking hours, high altitude, and camping conditions.
Yes, prior high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the best weather and views.
Only up to Upper Narchyang. Beyond that, camping is required.
4,190 meters at Annapurna North Base Camp.