Trekking in Nepal · Annapurna Region

Annapurna South Base Camp Trek

12 Days 4100m 4 reviews

Duration12 Days
DifficultyModerate
Max altitude4100m
Group size17 People
Best seasonSEP-NOV, MAR-MAY
Start / finishKathmandu

Trip overview

The Annapurna South Base Camp Trek is a scenic and less-crowded Himalayan journey that leads trekkers into the southern flank of the Annapurna Massif. This trek offers a unique perspective of the Annapurna range, combining dramatic mountain views, peaceful trails, and authentic cultural experiences in the lower Annapurna region.

Unlike the main Annapurna Base Camp route, this trek focuses on the quieter southern approaches, making it ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and a more off-the-beaten-path experience. The highlight is reaching the base area of Annapurna South, where trekkers are rewarded with close-up views of towering Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding Annapurna Himalaya range.

This trek is ideal for moderately experienced trekkers who want a quieter alternative to the classic Annapurna Base Camp route while still enjoying world-class Himalayan scenery.

Geography and Landscape

The Annapurna South Base Camp Trek is located in the southern section of the Annapurna region within Annapurna Conservation Area. The route typically begins from the Pokhara region and gradually ascends through terraced farmland, forested hills, and remote mountain villages.

The landscape is diverse and constantly changing. Lower elevations feature lush subtropical forests, rice terraces, and river valleys. As the trail ascends, it enters dense rhododendron and oak forests, home to diverse wildlife and seasonal floral beauty. Higher up, the terrain becomes more rugged, with alpine meadows, rocky ridges, and expansive views of snow-covered peaks.

The Annapurna South Base Camp area lies in a dramatic mountain setting, surrounded by steep ridgelines and glacial valleys. From here, trekkers enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South and adjacent peaks, along with close perspectives of the southern face of the Annapurna massif.

The route is quieter compared to the main ABC trail, offering a more peaceful trekking experience with fewer crowds and a stronger sense of wilderness.

Climate and Best Time to Trek

The best seasons for the Annapurna South Base Camp Trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These periods offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and excellent visibility of the surrounding mountains.

Spring is especially beautiful due to blooming rhododendron forests that color the hillsides in red, pink, and white. Autumn provides crisp air and some of the clearest Himalayan views after the monsoon season, making it the most favorable time for trekking.

Winter (December–February) is colder, particularly at higher elevations, but still offers clear skies and quiet trails for experienced trekkers. The monsoon season (June–August) is generally less suitable due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and limited mountain visibility.

Overall, autumn is considered the best season for the most reliable trekking conditions and panoramic views.

People and Culture

The Annapurna South region is home to diverse ethnic communities, primarily Gurung and Magar groups, who are known for their hospitality, resilience, and deep cultural connection to the Himalayas.

Trekkers pass through traditional villages where stone houses, terraced fields, prayer flags, and small monasteries reflect the region’s cultural heritage. Villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong provide meaningful cultural encounters and insights into local mountain life.

Among these, Ghandruk is particularly significant, offering traditional Gurung culture, local museums, and stunning mountain views.

The combination of peaceful trails, authentic cultural experiences, and spectacular Himalayan scenery makes the Annapurna South Base Camp Trek a rewarding and less-commercial alternative to the main Annapurna routes.

Highlights

Scenic flight/drive to Pokhara – lakeside gateway to the Himalayas
Traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk – culture and heritage
Rhododendron forests and alpine meadows – colorful trekking scenery
Sunrise from Muldai Viewpoint – panoramic Annapurna & Dhaulagiri views Muldai Viewpoint
Khopra Ridge – remote ridge with stunning mountain panoramas Khopra Ridge
Annapurna South Base Camp hike (4,100m) – close-up peak experience Annapurna South Base Camp
Cultural immersion in Swanta village – authentic local lifestyle Swanta
Ulleri stone stair descent & optional hot springs at Tatopani

Day-by-day itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide or company representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Our team from Nord Extreme will assist you with permit arrangements, trekking briefing, gear checking, and final trip preparation to ensure a safe and comfortable journey ahead.

You will also have free time to explore Thamel for any last-minute shopping or personal preparations before the trek begins.

Accomadation: Hotel

Place to visit: Nepal

Meals: Dinner

What’s included

Cost includes

1. Transportations

Private/tourist vehicles for airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu.
Private/tourist vehicles transfer as per itinerary to access the trailheads.
Domestic flight included for access to the trekking starting & ending point.

2. Accommodation & Meals

3 Nights 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with bed & breakfast basis.
2 Nights 3 star hotel in Pokhara with bed & breakfast basis.
All Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner with tea & coffee) during the trekking Period.

3. Permits

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permits.

4. Guide & Staff

Professional and experience License holder trekking guide salary & insurance.
Porter salary, equipments & insurance.
First aid medical kit for emergency support.

Cost excludes

1. International Flights

Airfare from your home country to Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu).
Return airfare from Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu) to your home country.

2. Visa Fees

Nepal entry visa fee for entering Nepal (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, or through a Nepalese embassy).

3. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen circumstances.

4. Personal Expenses

Tips, gifts, and souvenirs for trekking guides and porters.
Personal trekking equipment and gear.
Charges for lodge Wi-Fi, hot showers, battery charging, and laundry services.

5. Meals & Beverages

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other locations where accommodation is provided in 3-star category hotels.
Soft drinks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and snacks consumed during meals

Photos & video

Dates & prices

Private departures run on any date. Pick the start date that suits you and we will build the trip around it — same price, your own guide and team.

Good to know

Essential information

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided in basic to moderately comfortable teahouses and mountain lodges along the route.

Lower sections such as Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and surrounding villages offer better-developed lodges with improved facilities. As the trail ascends toward remote areas leading to Annapurna South Base Camp, accommodation becomes simpler due to limited infrastructure and lower tourist flow.

Rooms are generally twin-sharing with basic bedding and shared bathroom facilities.

Meals

A full-board meal system (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) is provided throughout the trek. Meals are freshly prepared and suitable for trekking energy requirements.

Typical menu options include:

Traditional Dal Bhat set meals
Noodles, pasta, and fried rice
Soups, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables
Eggs, pancakes, and Tibetan bread
Tea, coffee, and hot beverages

Food is available in most villages, though variety becomes more limited in remote sections.

Difficulty & Physical Requirements

The Annapurna South Base Camp Trek is classified as moderate, suitable for trekkers with good fitness and some prior hiking experience.

Daily trekking ranges from 5 to 7 hours, with steady ascents, forest trails, and occasional steep climbs.

No technical climbing is required, but endurance and acclimatization are important.

Permits

Required permits include:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

All permits are arranged by the trekking operator.

Best Season

Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms and clear mountain views
Autumn (September–November): Best weather and visibility
Winter (December–February): Cold but peaceful trekking conditions
Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended due to rain, leeches, and landslides

Transportation & Access

The trek typically begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Ghandruk region, followed by trekking through forested trails and hillside villages.

Pokhara serves as the main access hub for the Annapurna region.

Safety & Acclimatization

Although the altitude is moderate compared to major high passes, proper pacing is essential.

Key considerations include:

Gradual ascent through forest and village terrain
Regular hydration and rest breaks
Monitoring weather conditions in alpine zones
Guides ensure safety, route navigation, and support throughout the trek.

Travel Insurance

Recommended travel insurance should include:

Trekking coverage up to at least 4,500m
Emergency medical treatment
Helicopter evacuation coverage
Trip cancellation and accident protection

Additional information

Guide & Porter Services

Licensed trekking guides provide navigation, safety assistance, and cultural interpretation throughout the journey.

Porters are available to carry luggage, allowing trekkers to walk comfortably with a light daypack.

Cultural & Natural Highlights

The Annapurna South Base Camp Trek is known for its peaceful trails and natural beauty:

Close views of Annapurna South Base Camp
Stunning scenery of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli
Traditional Gurung villages like Ghandruk
Dense rhododendron and oak forests
Less crowded alternative to ABC Trek
Authentic rural Himalayan lifestyle
Scenic ridge walks and mountain viewpoints

Essential Equipment

Recommended trekking gear includes:

Comfortable trekking boots
Layered clothing system
Warm jacket for higher elevations
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Gloves, hat, and sunglasses
Trekking poles
Daypack (30–40L)
Basic first aid kit and personal medication

Communication & Connectivity

Mobile network coverage is available in lower villages such as Ghandruk but becomes weaker in higher and remote sections near the base camp area.

Wi-Fi is available in some lodges at lower elevations but is limited in remote zones.

Why Choose the Annapurna South Base Camp Trek?

This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a quieter and more authentic Himalayan experience:

Less crowded alternative to Annapurna Base Camp
Beautiful close-up views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli
Rich cultural experience in Gurung villages
Peaceful forest and alpine trekking routes
Moderate difficulty suitable for many trekkers
Easy access from Pokhara
Authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience
One of the hidden gems of the Annapurna region

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