Nepal · Trekking

12-Day Annapurna North Base Camp Trek via the Historic French Route

12 Days Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Follow the historic French Route to Annapurna North Base Camp
  • 02 Combine teahouse trekking with fully supported wilderness camping
  • 03 Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli
  • 04 Trek through rhododendron forests, waterfalls, alpine meadows, glaciers, and rugged mountain terrain
  • 05 Relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani along the Kali Gandaki River
  • 06 Experience the remote culture and hospitality of Magar and Thakali communities
  • 07 Look out for musk deer, blue sheep, Himalayan bears, wild dogs, and possibly a snow leopard

Follow the historic French Route on a demanding 12-day trek to Annapurna North Base Camp, a remote and lesser-known trail in the Annapurna region. This journey combines scenic drives, teahouse stays, and fully supported camping as you travel through Tatopani, Narchyang, Sandhi Kharka, Thulo Bugin, and Lete. Along the way, enjoy panoramic Himalayan views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli, along with natural hot springs, alpine landscapes, rhododendron forests, and opportunities to encounter Himalayan wildlife. Ideal for trekkers seeking wilderness, solitude, and an immersive mountain experience, this route offers a rewarding alternative to the region's busier trails.

This journey combines scenic drives, teahouse stays, and fully supported camping as you travel through Tatopani, Narchyang, Sandhi Kharka, Thulo Bugin, and Lete.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Premium
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Tatopani
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Briefing

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Marvel Treks. You will be transferred to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. After check-in, you may either rest or visit the office for a detailed briefing about the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek and trip preparations.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (822 m / 2,696 ft)

After an early breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Pokhara by tourist bus, which takes approximately 7-8 hours. The journey follows the picturesque Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers, offering views of terraced hills, rivers, and rural settlements. For those preferring a quicker option, a domestic flight (approx. 25 minutes) can be arranged at an additional cost.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Duration: 7-8 hours
Distance: 205 km

Day 3: Drive from Pokhara (822 m) to Tatopani (1,243 m) and Trek to Upper Narchyang (2,140 m / 7,020 ft)

After breakfast in Pokhara, drive to Tatopani by local transport. Tatopani is renowned for its natural hot springs along the Kali Gandaki River. If time allows, you may enjoy a relaxing dip either today or on the return journey. From Tatopani, the trek officially begins, following a gradual trail to Narchyang Village and onward to Upper Narchyang.

Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 4-5 hours

Day 4: Trek from Upper Narchyang (2,140 m) to Chhotepa (2,369 m / 7,772 ft)

Today marks the transition from teahouse trekking to camping. Upper Narchyang is the last settlement with permanent accommodation. The trail to Chhotepa is demanding, featuring steep ascents, grassy slopes, stone steps, and river crossings at Lekhgaun, Ghalemdi, and Mristi Khola. Overnight stay will be in a fully supported tented camp.

Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 7-8 hours
Distance: 14 km

Day 5: Trek from Chhotepa (2,369 m) to Sandhi Kharka (3,165 m / 10,383 ft)

After breakfast, trek towards Sandhi Kharka. The trail passes through pristine wilderness, featuring waterfalls, streams, and the scenic settlement of Humkhola. This section offers outstanding mountain solitude and dramatic landscapes.

Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 6-7 hours
Distance: 9 km

Day 6: Trek from Sandhi Kharka (3,165 m) to Annapurna North Base Camp (4,190 m / 13,746 ft)

The most awaited day of the trek. Today's challenging ascent leads you to Annapurna North Base Camp, following a rugged trail with gradual uphill sections. Upon arrival, enjoy spectacular close-up views of Annapurna's northern face and surrounding glaciers. Your experienced Marvel Treks guide will select the safest and most scenic campsite.

Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 7-8 hours
Distance: 10 km

Day 7: Trek from Annapurna North Base Camp (4,190 m) to Sandhi Kharka (3,165 m)

Spend the morning exploring the base camp area, surrounded by towering peaks such as Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri. After soaking in the dramatic Himalayan scenery, descend back to Sandhi Kharka.

Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 7-8 hours
Distance: 10 km

Day 8: Trek from Sandhi Kharka (3,165 m) to Thulo Bugin (3,500 m / 11,482 ft)

Today's trek takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and small mountain streams. During spring, the trail is especially colorful with blooming wildflowers. Wildlife sightings are also possible along this route.

Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 9: Trek from Thulo Bugin (3,500 m) to Lete (2,010 m / 6,594 ft)

After breakfast, trek downhill towards Lete, crossing Thulo Bugin Pass, one of the high points of the journey. Depending on time, fitness, and interest, an optional side hike to Titi Lake may be possible. Continue descending through forested trails to Lete.

Accommodation: Tea House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 10: Drive from Lete (2,010 m) to Pokhara (822 m)

Your trekking adventure concludes today with a scenic jeep drive back to Pokhara. On a clear day, enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna range during the drive. Upon arrival, you may explore Phewa Lake, enjoy boating, or sample local cuisine.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance: 122 km

Day 11: Drive from Pokhara (822 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m)

After breakfast, return to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The drive follows the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers, passing lively towns such as Damauli, Dumre, and Mugling. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Spend your final evening shopping or exploring Thamel.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Duration: 7-8 hours
Distance: 205 km

Day 12: Final Departure / Onward Journey

According to your flight schedule, Marvel Treks will arrange airport transfer approximately three hours before departure. If you have extra time, optional sightseeing or extension trips can be organized.

Meals: Breakfast

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
5 cities · 12 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Airport Transfer: Private car for pick-up and drop-off at Kathmandu International Airport.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel stays in both Kathmandu and Pokhara (2 nights in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara).
Meals During Trek: 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 7 dinners with tea provided along the trekking route.
Accommodation During Trekking: 2 nights in tea houses and 5 nights of tent-based accommodation with all necessary camping equipment.
Transportation: Shared tourist bus service between Kathmandu and Pokhara for the round trip.
Guides and Cook: Fully supported trek with an English-speaking, licensed mountain guide and a cook.
Permits: Trekking permits for North ABC, including ACAP and TIMS.
Transfers: Shared transportation from Pokhara to Tatopani by bus or jeep.
Trekking Staff Insurance: Comprehensive medical and accident insurance for the trekking staff, along with their food, accommodation, and salaries.
First Aid Kit: A fully stocked first aid kit, including an oximeter to monitor oxygen levels and pulse.
Taxes and Service Charges: All applicable government taxes, VAT, and company service fees.

What's Not Included

  • Meals in Cities: Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included.
  • Personal Expenses: Charges for battery use, laundry, phone calls, and hot showers during the trek.
  • Trekking Gear: Personal trekking clothing and equipment, such as sleeping bags and climbing shoes.
  • Additional Personal Costs: Drinks, bar bills, and other personal purchases.
  • Domestic Flights: Flight tickets between Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included.
  • Insurance: Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation and rescue must be arranged separately.
  • Entrance Fees: Fees for donations and monument entrances during the trek are excluded.
  • Tips: Gratuities for the guide, porters, and other staff members are not included but are appreciated.

What to bring

Clothing

  • Down jacket / insulated jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
  • Thermal base layers
  • Warm fleece / sweater
  • Trekking shirts (quick-dry)
  • Innerwear and sleepwear

Footwear

  • Well-broken-in trekking boots
  • Camp sandals / flip-flops
  • Warm trekking socks (wool)

Trekking Gear

  • Backpack (50-65L) or duffel bag
  • Daypack
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag (good for cold conditions)
  • Headlamp / torch + extra batteries

Accessories

  • Warm hat / beanie
  • Sun hat / cap
  • Gloves (inner + outer)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Buff / scarf

Personal Items

  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Personal toiletries
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Wet wipes / hand sanitizer
  • Water bottle / hydration bladder

Health and Safety

  • Personal medications
  • Basic first-aid kit
  • Altitude sickness medicine (if prescribed)

Documents and Extras

  • Passport + copies
  • Trekking permits (handled by Marvel Treks)
  • Power bank / camera
  • Snacks and energy bars

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Ring Rd, Kathmandu, Nepal
End of the journey

Your 12 days finish where they began.

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