The North Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a spectacular 6-day adventure into one of the most remote and less-visited areas of the Annapurna region. Starting and ending in Pokhara, the journey takes you through the rugged landscapes of Myagdi and into the remote Miristi Khola valley, following the historic route associated with Maurice Herzog’s legendary 1950 Annapurna expedition.
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara toward Hum Khola before entering the wilderness on foot. The trail passes through forests, waterfalls, rocky valleys and increasingly alpine landscapes as it climbs toward Bhusket Mela. From there, the route continues toward Pancha Kunda Lake at around 4,050 m before reaching North Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,190 m.
At North Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers can experience dramatic Himalayan scenery and a remarkable perspective of the north face of Annapurna I (8,091 m). The return journey follows the remote valley back toward Hum Khola and Tatopani before completing the trek in Pokhara.
With its remote trails, limited trekking traffic, high-altitude landscapes and strong connection to Annapurna’s mountaineering history, the North Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an excellent choice for adventurous trekkers seeking a quieter and less-traveled Himalayan experience.
North Annapurna Base Camp is a remote camping trek with limited facilities at higher elevations. Trail conditions, weather, road access, and camping locations may vary, so an experienced local trekking team and proper preparation are recommended.
The North Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a remote 6-day Himalayan adventure starting and ending in Pokhara. The trek follows the historic route toward the north face of Annapurna I (8,091 m), passing through Hum Khola, Bhusket Mela and Pancha Kunda Lake before reaching North Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,190 m. Dramatic mountain scenery, alpine landscapes and the peaceful surroundings make this an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path Annapurna experience.
Your North Annapurna Base Camp adventure begins in Pokhara with a scenic drive toward the Myagdi region. The journey follows the Kali Gandaki Valley through beautiful mountain landscapes, traditional villages, terraced hills, and river valleys before reaching the Tatopani area. From Tatopani, continue toward Narchyang and the remote Hum Khola trailhead. After reaching Hum Khola, prepare for the trekking section and spend the night in a camping setup.
Altitude: Pokhara – approximately 820 m | Hum Khola – approximately 2,880 m
Driving Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Distance: Approximately 115 km by road
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trek begins from Hum Khola and follows the remote trail deeper into the Miristi Khola valley. The route gradually climbs through forested sections, rocky terrain, waterfalls, and rugged mountain landscapes. As you gain altitude, the surroundings become increasingly alpine and remote. Continue toward Bhusket Mela, an important overnight camping point on the route to North Annapurna Base Camp.
Altitude: Hum Khola – approximately 2,880 m | Bhusket Mela – approximately 3,550 m
Walking Time: Approximately 4–6 hours
Distance: Approximately 6–9 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is the most important day of the trek as you continue toward North Annapurna Base Camp. The trail climbs steadily from Bhusket Mela through increasingly rugged alpine terrain toward the higher reaches of the Miristi Khola valley. The route passes the beautiful Pancha Kunda Lake area at approximately 4,050 m before continuing toward North Annapurna Base Camp. After reaching the base camp at approximately 4,190 m, enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurna massif and the dramatic mountain environment surrounding the north side of Annapurna I.
Altitude: Bhusket Mela – approximately 3,550 m | Pancha Kunda Lake – approximately 4,050 m | North Annapurna Base Camp – approximately 4,190 m
Walking Time: Approximately 5–7 hours
Distance: Approximately 8–10 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After enjoying the remote surroundings of North Annapurna Base Camp, begin the descent toward Bhusket Mela. The trail retraces the route through the alpine landscape and past the Pancha Kunda area before gradually descending into the lower valley. As the altitude decreases, the landscape becomes greener and less rugged. Continue to Bhusket Mela for your overnight camping stay.
Altitude: North Annapurna Base Camp – approximately 4,190 m | Bhusket Mela – approximately 3,550 m
Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Distance: Approximately 8–10 km
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trail continues descending from Bhusket Mela toward Hum Khola, following the same remote mountain valley. After reaching Hum Khola, meet the vehicle and drive back toward Tatopani. The descent brings a significant change in scenery, from the high alpine environment to warmer valleys with forests, villages, and terraced hills. Arrive in Tatopani and relax after completing the main trekking section.
Altitude: Bhusket Mela – approximately 3,550 m | Hum Khola – approximately 2,880 m | Tatopani – approximately 1,190 m
Walking Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours
Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, drive from Tatopani back to Pokhara through the scenic Kali Gandaki Valley. The journey passes through traditional villages, rivers, terraced hills, and beautiful western Himalayan landscapes. Upon reaching Pokhara, the North Annapurna Base Camp Trek officially comes to an end. You can continue your onward journey or extend your stay in Pokhara.
Altitude: Tatopani – approximately 1,190 m | Pokhara – approximately 820 m
Driving Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Distance: Approximately 115 km
Accommodation: Not Included
Meals: Breakfast
This is a remote camping trek with limited infrastructure in the higher sections. Trail conditions, road access, camping locations, and walking times may vary according to weather and local conditions. The trek should be undertaken with an experienced local trekking team.
At Mings Adventure Nepal, with over 10 years of trekking experience, we recommend the following equipment to ensure your trek in Nepal is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. This checklist is a general guideline and may vary depending on the trek, season, and altitude.
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