Nepal · Trekking

8-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return from Pokhara

8 Days Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Stand at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) surrounded by Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna
  • 02 Trek through rhododendron and bamboo forests, terraced farmlands, waterfalls, and glacial riverbeds
  • 03 Experience warm hospitality in beautiful Gurung villages such as Chomrong
  • 04 Pass Jhinu Danda, known for its natural hot springs, on the route into the Annapurna region
  • 05 Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara with dramatic aerial views of the Himalayas
  • 06 Take in panoramic mountain vistas from Pokhara, including Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return combines a rewarding Himalayan trek with a scenic helicopter flight back to Pokhara. Over the course of the journey, you will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, trek through terraced farmlands, rhododendron and bamboo forests, waterfalls, glacial riverbeds, and traditional mountain villages, and reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m. The experience is crowned by breathtaking views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and other Himalayan peaks. Ideal for trekkers with good fitness, this itinerary offers the challenge of the ascent and the comfort of a swift, unforgettable return by air.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return combines a rewarding Himalayan trek with a scenic helicopter flight back to Pokhara.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Annapurna, Chomrong
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Annapurna Journey to Base Camp

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

Airport pickup - hotel transfer - trip briefing.

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Marvel Treks will warmly welcome you and assist with a private transfer to your hotel in Thamel. After check-in, you may choose to relax after your journey or explore some of Kathmandu's nearby cultural highlights.

In the evening, you will meet your trekking guide at the Marvel Treks office for a detailed trip briefing. During this session, the itinerary will be reviewed, an equipment check will be conducted, and important information regarding the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return will be provided.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel

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

After an early breakfast, you will travel to Pokhara by comfortable tourist bus. The scenic drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through river valleys, terraced hills, and charming rural settlements along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers.

For those who prefer to save time, a 25-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara can be arranged at an additional cost.

Pokhara is a picturesque lakeside city renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning Himalayan backdrop, offering views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
Duration: 7-8 Hours
Distance: 205 km / 127 miles

Day 3: Drive from Pokhara (822m) to Siwai (1,395m) and Trek to Chomrong (2,170m / 7,119ft)

After breakfast, you will drive by jeep to Siwai, where the trekking portion of your journey begins. The trail ascends through lush forests and traditional villages, passing Jhinu Danda, famous for its natural hot springs.

You will cross suspension bridges and climb stone staircases as you make your way to Chomrong, a beautiful Gurung village offering magnificent views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 5-6 Hours
Distance: 10.3 km / 6.4 miles

Day 4: Trek from Chomrong (2,170m) to Dovan (2,600m / 8,530ft)

Today's trek begins with a descent to Chomrong Khola, followed by a steady climb to Sinuwa. The trail continues through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, creating a serene and refreshing trekking experience.

Passing through Bamboo and Khuldighar, you will descend into the narrow Modi Khola gorge before reaching Dovan for the night.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 6-7 Hours
Distance: 8.6 km / 5 miles

Day 5: Trek from Dovan (2,600m) to Deurali (3,230m / 10,597ft)

The trail between Dovan and Himalaya is particularly peaceful, as loud noises are restricted due to the presence of a nearby temple. You will pass waterfalls, bamboo groves, and rhododendron forests as the landscape gradually opens up.

Beyond Himalaya, the path leads past Hinku Cave and glacial riverbeds before climbing to Deurali, where spectacular valley views await.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 5-6 Hours
Distance: 7.7 km / 4.7 miles

Day 6: Trek from Deurali (3,230m) to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,549ft)

After a challenging ascent, you will reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks. From here, the trail widens as you continue toward Annapurna Base Camp.

Upon arrival at ABC, you will be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tent Peak, and Singuchuli - an unforgettable highlight of the trek.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 4-5 Hours
Distance: 6.9 km / 4 miles

Day 7: Helicopter Flight from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara, then Flight to Kathmandu

After sunrise views and exploration at Annapurna Base Camp, you will board a scenic helicopter flight back to Pokhara, arranged by Marvel Treks. This unforgettable aerial journey offers close-up views of glaciers, high mountain ridges, and deep valleys.

From Pokhara, you will take a domestic flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, a Marvel Treks representative will transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. In the evening, enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner to mark the successful completion of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Final Departure

A private transfer will take you from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled departure. You may also choose to extend your stay in Nepal or join another adventure with Marvel Treks.

Meals: Breakfast

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
4 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a Bed & Breakfast (BB) basis, as outlined in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return itinerary
  • Comfortable teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trekking days
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • All required ground transportation by private vehicle as per itinerary
  • Services of a highly experienced, licensed trekking guide
  • Guide and staff food, salary, insurance, and clothing
  • Scenic helicopter charter flight from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara
  • Domestic flight ticket from Pokhara to Kathmandu (regular flight)
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful completion of the trek
  • All applicable government taxes, VAT, service charges, and necessary paperwork

What's Not Included

  • Personal travel and medical insurance
  • Expenses of a personal nature (laundry, phone calls, Wi-Fi, etc.)
  • Bar bills and all kinds of beverages, including alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Tips/gratuities for trekking staff (expected but not mandatory)

What to bring

  • Trekking boots
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket & pants
  • Thermal base layers
  • Trekking pants
  • Warm hat & gloves
  • Daypack (20-30L)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Personal medicines & toiletries
  • Water bottle
  • Passport & some cash

Know before you go

  • For those who prefer to save time, a 25-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara can be arranged at an additional cost.
  • While the trek is achievable for most trekkers with good fitness, it does require physical and mental preparation.
  • Proper trekking gear - including warm clothing, a quality sleeping bag, and reliable hiking boots - is essential for comfort and safety at higher elevations.
  • A private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport is scheduled approximately 3 hours before your departure flight.
  • The itinerary can be customized based on your time, budget, and fitness level.

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 8 days finish where they began.

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