Annapurna Base Camp Trek & Bhutan Tour - 20 Days

Trekking and Walking
  • Guaranteed Satisfaction
  • Transparent Price
  • No hidden fees
  • Experience of a More than a decade
  • Personal Touch & Professional Service

US$ 2,750 P/P

Trip Info

  • Duration

    20 Days

  • Max. Altitude

    ABC 4130 m

  • Difficulty

    moderate

  • Starts From

    Kathmandu

  • Trip Ends At

    Kathmandu

  • Transport

    Private Car & Flight

  • Best Season:

    • Spring (Mar, Apr)
    • Autumn (Mid-Sep - Mid November)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek & Bhutan Tour Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Bhutan Tour is a beautiful journey that is a well-designed package for those travelers who want to mix nature, culture, and adventure in one trip. This is an incredible trip package designed for those seeking to do a short trek in the Himalayan region of Nepal along with a tour of the cities of Bhutan, “the Land of Thunder Dragon”. 

One of the world-famous trekking routes of the Annapurna region is Annapurna Base Camp, also popularly known as ABC which leads you to the lap of Mount Annapurna (8091 m). ABC is at an elevation of 4135 m and trekking to the base camp lets you explore the hilly & mountainous region, traversing through the beautiful rhododendron forest and observing the beautiful habitation of Nepalese indigenous and ethnic groups along with their hospitality. The Annapurna mountain ranges throughout the hiking routes are extraordinarily mindboggling as well as stunningly beautiful.

On the way to the base camp, you can catch a splendid view of about 15 snowcapped mountains including Dhaulagiri I (8167 m / 7th highest), Manaslu (8156 m / 8th highest), and Annapurna I (8091 m / 10th highest) from a famed viewpoint called Poon Hill (3200 m).

The trip to Bhutan provides you with an insight into the unique culture and tradition of the country as well as the natural beauty that makes you soak in it. Bhutan, a mystery Himalayan kingdom, is one of the world's least-visited countries but has been giving a fantastic site for enjoying a calm vacation thanks to its various high mountains that provide the much-needed thrill and solace away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

The tour is the best opportunity to discover the renowned landmarks of Bhutan, its Dzongs, monasteries, and well-preserved ecology. It is also the best chance to walk on the mountain passes that ascend towards the Tiger's Nest, of witnessing a sacred ritual like those we've seen in travel literature, enthralled by the allure of the route less traveled, a country rumored to be inhabited by dragons, magic, and magical animals.

This combined package is 21 days where you spend 4 days in Bhutan as well as includes sightseeing the jewels of Kathmandu (UNESCO enlisted world heritage sites). Overall booking this package, you hit the bull's eye by visiting two naturally gifted nations fulfilling your desire.

Trip Highlights

  • Getting to the heart of the Himalayas, where you feel as if you are in the earth's heaven
  • Challenge your hiking habits and push yourself to the maximum on this high-altitude track
  • Rest and unwind in Pokhara, the lake paradise
  • Hike through secluded towns, fairy-tale forests, enormous moorlands cut by cascading rivers, and the blue-hued peaks of base camp as they glow under the stars to witness the incredible grandeur of the unique Himalayan terrain
  • From the stunning heights of Poon Hill, witness a magical sunrise across the Annapurna Mountains - an early morning climb to this great site will be well worth the effort
  • After your hike, rest and unwind in Pokhara by cruising along with Phewa Tal (Lake) and gazing up at snow-capped mountains, or get a relaxing massage to revive those tired legs

 

ABC Trek with Bhutan Tour Difficulty 

In the Annapurna Conservation Area, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderately challenging trek. The Annapurna Base Camp is a 115-kilometer round trek that begins in Pokhara and ends in Pokhara. The course includes a number of uphill and downhill stone staircase climbs that can be exhausting. Along with the hike across the rocky moraines, some sections climb steeply up and down. However, after a snowstorm, the track becomes rather difficult to struggle through the snowy route in the winter. The walk takes you to 4130 meters above sea level, so even in thin air, the higher section of the hike is quite adventurous.

Best Season for ABC Trek with Bhutan Tour 

The ideal trekking experience can be had from March to June in spring and September to November in fall, just like the regular optimum season for adventure, Annapurna Base Camp hiking. The days are getting warmer, and the nicest vistas of the Himalayas can be found all along the trail. If you're up for a frosty adventure, December and January are ideal months to go on the ABC Trek. With the right warm clothing, one may complete the walk with an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that only a few hikers get to enjoy. 

The optimum time to walk to Annapurna Base Camp is in the shoulder seasons of April-May (spring) or October-November (autumn), which are pre-monsoon and pre-winter, respectively. Depending on the altitude, the weather is somewhat hot during the day and freezing at night during hiking. There's also a lower possibility of rain during this period, and you'll want to get a string of clear days, which is ideal for trekking.

Permits for ABC Trek with Bhutan Tour 

The Annapurna Conservation Area encompasses the majority of trekking trails in the Annapurna region, including the world-famous Annapurna Base Camp circuit. To trek in the Annapurna region, foreigners must get an entry permit from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) as well as a TIMS card

Itinerary in Details

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu

🕑 30 Min Drive to Hotel

Max Altitude: 1350 M

After you arrive at the airport, a representative from Himalayan Trekkers will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. 
Note: (If your arrival is early, you can start the guided sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley by visiting the renowned Pashupatinath Temple which is 2.5 km from the airport. Also, you can visit the biggest Buddhist Site, Boudhanath Stupa after exploring Pashupatinath. Then, you will be taken to your hotel in the Thamel area.)
Check in at the hotel and relax. The rest of the day is at leisure. We will gather at our office or at your hotel lobby to pre-discuss your trek. You can take around the streets of the Thamel and Thahiti area. 

Meals: Welcome Dinner

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in KTM

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

🕑 Full Day

Max Altitude: 1350 M

Your guided sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley begins after a warm breakfast in the hotel. The first spot to explore will be Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in the world dedicated to Lord Shiva. Later, we will drive to the Tibetan Buddhist Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa. It is the largest stupa in Nepal and is one of the largest in South Asia. We will also visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the former royal palace of the Malla and Shah Kings of Nepal. Last but not least, we will make a short visit to another Buddhist site, Swoyambhunath Stupa. It is located on the hilltop offering the best view of the surrounding mountains and Kathmandu Valley.
(If Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa were covered the other day, you will have alternatives of Patan Durbar Square & Bhaktapur Durbar Square).

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in KTM

Day: Drive to Phedi via Pokhara & Trek to Dhampus

🕑 8 Hours Drive & 2 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 1700 M

Following breakfast, we will leave Kathmandu and head towards another most popular tourist destination in Nepal, Pokhara. We will have 6-7 hours long drive along the Prithivi Highway with the vast landscape and gushing white water of Trishuli. You can also opt for the 25 minutes flight at an extra cost.                           
Upon reaching the city, we will drive to Phedi, a small village near Pokhara, and trek towards Dhampus, a hilly area with a small settlement of the Gurung community. Phedi to Dhampus is a low-elevation, easy-to-follow trek with stunning scenery. Dhampus vantage point offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views of the Annapurna mountain range in the Himalayas. Have a walk around the village in the evening and sample the local cuisine and culture.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 4: Trek to Landrung

🕑 5/6 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 1600 M

Our trail today leads us to Deurali along the ridge through Pothana. We make descend via the lush forest before entering the settlements of Tolka and Bheri Kharka. At this point, you find yourself high up on the East side of the Modi Khola cascading down the Annapurna Circuit Sanctuary surrounded by a complete ambiance of nature. The trail then descends via a series of forests and settlements to Landrung, another interesting Gurung settlement. You can explore the village in the evening or just rest at the hotel witnessing some of the high mountains in the Annapurna region. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 5: Trek to Chomrong

🕑 6/7 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 1960 M

After breakfast, we start to walk along the mountain path of the stone-paved trail, pass through a hamlet, and cross a suspension bridge until we across the dense forest of bamboo. You will find yourself in complete isolation in the middle of nature and lush green forest. We can see Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Ganggapurna along the way. 
After walking for some time we will reach Jhinu and stop there for a short break for drinks and snacks. Thereafter, we will deviate towards the north and walk for around 4 hours to reach Chhomrong, a lovely town nestled in the shadow of the mighty Annapurna. It is one of the best places to view the magnificent Mount Fishtail, the virgin peak. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 6: Trek to Himalaya Hotel

🕑 7 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 2900 M

The trail today climbs after descending to the Chhomrong Khola on steep stone steps, first through terraced farms and continue through the rhododendron-covered ridge path, mountainous terrains, and forests of bamboo. The mesmerizing view of the snow-capped mountains including Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli will energize you throughout the walk. We will cross Modi Khola and walk further for a few hours until we reach The Himalaya Hotel for an overnight stay. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 7: Trek to Machhapuchare Base Camp

🕑 4 Hours walk

Max Altitude: 3700 M

Once we start our trek today, we keep on ascending and descending for some time until we reach the Hinku Cave. We will come across Deurali and Bagar villages offering the proximity to the mountains. The trek from Bagar to Machhapuchhre Base Camp is quite difficult but the result of this trek will be fruitful. We have fantastic views of the spectacular Machhapuchhre as well as Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gandharvachuli, and Gangapurna from the Base Camp, which is a truly gratifying experience. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 8: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp & Back to Himalaya Hotel

🕑 5/6 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 4130 M

On our way to ABC, the foliage fades and the trail expands as we enter the Annapurna sanctuary. From here, we get spectacular views of Annapurna's near-vertical south face, which towers above us. On hiking the Annapurna circuit trail for nearly two hours, we descend a small ridge branching out from the mountain pass to the mountainside with widespread terraced fields showcasing tranquil meadows and lush fertile farming land. 
As you reach Annapurna Base Camp, witness awesome picturesque landscapes, majestic panoramic views of snow-capped mountainous peaks, and varied Himalayan cultural settings tucked beneath the southern slopes of the Annapurna massif. Thereafter, we head back down to Himalaya Hotel by retracing our track from the Annapurna base camp. Today's hike is mostly downhill, so it shouldn't be too challenging. Aside from that, we will always have the company of the magnificent scenery to cheer us up.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 9: Trek to Chomrong

🕑 6 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 1960 M

The walk today is very exciting as we reach the river bed of Kaligandaki, the deepest gorge in the world which lies between the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri Mountains. We will follow the trail up the Modi Khola passes for some time through dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo across the Annapurna mountain range. It is an uphill climb from Bamboo to Kuldighar, then a downhill stroll to Chhomrong Khola. Then we make our way to Chhomrong for an overnight stay via the stone steps.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 10: Trek to Ghandruk

🕑 5 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 1950 M

Today we start the second leg of the trek to reach Pokhara through Ghorepani and Ghandruk. We will march through flatland, forests, and terraced fields; a suspension bridge comes your way.
On crossing this suspension bridge over Khumbu Khola, we enter the beautiful village of Ghandruk. In Ghandruk you can observe the unique lifestyle and culture of the Gurung Community and get an excellent view of the Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchare. Other than hotels and tea houses here camping in the terraced fields can also be an option if you are interested. You could take some time to visit the Gurung museum in an old traditional stone slab home where you may learn about the history and culture of the Gurung people.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 11: Trek to Banthanti

🕑 5 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 2600 M

We will leave Ghandruk and further walk through a dense forest of rhododendrons, bamboo, and oak to Tadapani which is an excellent viewpoint to glimpse a heavenly sight of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Fishtail. Waterfalls, cliffs, wild animals, birds, and verdant valleys may all be seen along the way. We continue our trek passing through lush villages, small cascades, and terraced farms before we reach the village of Banthanti. It is a beautiful Magar settlement where you can get insights into the local lifestyle there and learn about their devotion to the Gurkha soldiers. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 12: Trek to Ghorepani

🕑 4/5 Hours Walk

Max Altitude: 2874 M

From Banthanti, you proceed further along steep trails. Nature spread exotic sights of majestic snow-capped mountain peaks, lush vegetation, and rich plant life before you. You climb through the rhododendron forest to Deurali [3100m] and reach a hamlet and cultivated fields. Continue walking for 3 hours and finally, you will find yourself in Ghorepani. Ghorepani also houses lodges to provide food and accommodation to travelers.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House

Day 13: Trek to Tikhedhunga & Drive to Pokhara

🕑 4 Hours walk 2 Hours Drive

Max Altitude: 850 M

We will hike to Poonhill in the early morning for a sunrise view over the Manaslu range.
Then, after breakfast, we will leave Ghorepani and walk towards Tikhedhunga, We will traverse through Nangethanti to reach Ulleri where a steep descent of 3500 steps leads down to Tikhedhunga on the Bhurungdi Khola. We can easily access any means of transportation to drive to Pokhara.
In the evening, you are free to wander by the lakes of Pokhara. 

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Pokhara

Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu

🕑 7 Hours Drive

Max Altitude: 1350 M

From Pokhara, you can either fly or drive to Kathmandu.
You have many options to do in Kathmandu. If you are taking a flight, you can do the Pokhara city tour and fly to the capital or do the Kathmandu sightseeing after your flight. In the evening, you can go shopping at the markets in the Thamel area, Ason, or Indrachowk. Back at your hotel room, you can prepare for the trip to Bhutan that starts the following day. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in KTM

Day 15: Fly to Paro Bhutan from Kathmandu. Afternoon Paro City Tour

🕑 1.15 Hours Flight & Transfer to Hotel

Max Altitude: 2200 M

After breakfast, our representative will pick up you at the hotel and transfer you to the airport for the flight to the Paro International Airport. 
Upon arrival in Paro, you will be greeted by our Bhutanese representative and escort you for the guided sightseeing of Paro city. The first destination we will head towards is the National Museum of Bhutan named Ta Dzong. The museum houses an amazing array of both old and modern Thangkas that is under 3000 items of artworks there portraying Bhutan's most important saints and gurus, as well as fascinating celebration masks.

Likely after lunch, we take a short walk to the Rimpung Dzong often described as the fort with heaps of Jewel. It is a castle built in the 17th century to safeguard Paro Valley, is located in the suburbs of Paro City, and offers stunning views and a sense of inner serenity.
We will also visit Khichu Lhakhang, the oldest monument in Bhutan. Kyichu Lhakhang, surrounded by fields, flowers, and hills, houses the eight-year-old Sakyamuni Buddha statue, historic relics, exquisite murals, and various Buddhist scriptures, among other things.
If the time permits, we will explore the Drugyal Dzong (Bhutan Victory Fort) which was built around the mid-17th century in memory of the Bhutanese victory over the Tibetan invaders.
In the evening, stroll around the streets of the markets and get familiar with the surrounding there. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Paro

Day 16: Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery & Drive to Thimpu

🕑 4 Hours Hike & 2 hours Drive

Max Altitude: 3120 M

Early morning breakfast and we start our hike to Taktsang Monastery also known as Tiger's Nest Monastery. (Opt. You can also hire a horse to ride to the monastery.) Famous for its significance and location, it was built in the 17th century where the Guru Rinpoche, Padmasambhava (the founder of Mahayana Buddhism in Bhutan) was believed to be flown on the back of the Tigress and meditated for years. It clings to the 900 meters cliff, 3120 meters above sea level at the upper Paro Valley offering the best view of the Paro Valley itself and the history and significance of the monastery. We take our lunch in a cafeteria located halfway down the hill and head toward our hotel. 
After reaching Paro ground, we grab our luggage from the hotel, check out, and drive to the capital, Thimphu. You can explore the streets and markets in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Thimpu

Day 17: Full Day Tour in Thimpu

🕑 Full Day

Max Altitude: 2350 M

Thimphu is recognized for its scenic Bhutan dzong, fresh air, and friendly locals, all of which are surrounded by undulating mountains. Today's tour begins with a visit to the Late King's Memorial Chorten with its gorgeous paintings and complex structure. Followed by that are the visits to the National Library, the largest holdings of Buddhist literature in the world. We will also discover the Folk Heritage Museum where a diverse collection of farm equipment, tools, and household items showcase the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle. 

A hand-made Paper Factory is also a subject of matter to visit in Thimphu where you can learn to make the papers by hand and color with a wide range of pigments. The School of Arts and Crafts is also the best place to learn more about traditional textile and handicraft making and Bhutan history. In the late afternoon, we will walk inside the market called Weekend market where all kinds of local products are sold. Another beautiful night in Thimpu. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Thimpu

Day 18: Drive Back to Paro

🕑 2 Hours Drive and Excursion around

Max Altitude: 2200 M

We will start our journey to Paro in the morning after breakfast. A couple of hours of the journey goes through the winding road with lush green forest and small settlements. We will arrive at Paro for Lunch. In the evening spend time around the local market.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in Paro

Day 19: Fly Back to Kathmandu from Paro & Sightseeing

🕑 1.15 Hours Flight and Transfer to Hotel/Sightseeing

Max Altitude: 1350 M

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Paro International Airport for a scenic flight back to Kathmandu.  After checking in and a brief rest, you will be driven to Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur district and Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Bhaktapur. After exploration, you will be back in Kathmandu. In the evening, you will us our team for a farewell dinner in an authentic Nepali restaurant. 

Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner

Accommodation: Standard Hotel in KTM

Day 20: Departure from Kathmandu

🕑 30 Min Drive to Airport

This amazing trip to these Himalayan nations comes to an end today. 
A representative from Himalayan Trekkers you drop you at the airport 3 hours before your flight schedule to your onward destination. We look forward to seeing you soon! 

Meals: Breakfast

Includes

  • Bhutan Visa Fees
  • All airport transfers as per the itinerary
  • 3 Star Standard category Accommodations on twin sharing/double sharing basis in Kathmandu & Pokhara 
  • Best Available teahouse accommodations during the trek to ABC
  • Professional English Speaking City guide in Kathmandu and Bhutan
  • Experienced trekking guide throughout ABC trek
  • Flight fare (Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu) 
  • 3 Star Standard category Accommodations on twin sharing/double sharing basis during BhutanTour
  • All Entrance fees for Heritage sites in Kathmandu & Bhutan
  • Daily Royalty USD 65 P/P in Bhutan
  • National Park, Conservation, and TIMS fees throughout the Trip
  • Meals- Breakfast Lunch and Dinner with Tea/coffee in Bhutan
  • Welcome or Farewell dinner as per your preference
  • All applicable taxes and surcharges

 

Excludes

  • International airfares except for Kathmandu - Paro - Kathmandu
  • Nepal Visa Fees ( Can be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport or from your home place)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Meals- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara 
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, liquor, room service, phone bills, bar bills, etc.
  • Tips to Guide and Driver
  • Any cost occurs from any unfavorable conditions such as landslides, bad weather, flight cancellation, etc.
  • Anything not mentioned in the INCLUDES section

 

Accommodation

In Nepal: Himalayan Trekkers provide the best and most comfortable 3-star standard category accommodations on a Twin/Double sharing basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, everything you might want is available in these cities, from opulent 5-star resorts to comfortable hotels, and affordable guesthouses to lodges and homestays.

During your trekking periods, you will be mostly staying at the local teahouses on a twin-sharing basis. As we progress towards base camp, the number of teahouses will lessen as the elevation rises, and in most places, there will be no teahouse available. As a result, you will be camping as arranged by the Himalayan Trekkers guide/camping staff.

They may be able to accommodate you for a small fee if you request a single room, but trekkers in higher altitude places must stay in dormitories or shared rooms. Because tea houses and lodges are located at high altitudes, single room services may not always be available.

Meals During the Nepal ABC and Bhutan Tour

In Nepal: Authentic Nepalese cuisine, as well as more popular international cuisine, are available throughout our Annapurna Base Camp Trek (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.). Breakfast and dinner will be served in teahouses or from a lodge menu where we will be staying the night, while lunch will be served on the way to the next location. During the trek, all meals will be supplied, however, only breakfast will be accessible in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 

In Bhutan: All three meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) along with tea/coffee are included in the package cost. The Bhutanese Government made it mandatory to purchase the particular standard package included with meals and other services. In addition, we will be providing you with bottled/mineral water every day during your stay in Bhutan. 

Guests will also be treated to a welcome or farewell dinner in Kathmandu. 

Note: In case you want to upgrade the room services or have a single supplement, it can be managed at an extra cost in both countries. However, we should be notified prior to the bookings of the trip. 

 

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