How to Reach ABC from Pokhara
If you’re wondering how to Reach ABC from Pokhara, you’ll need to drive to a road-accessible trailhead and continue on foot. ABC sits at 4,130 meters inside the Annapurna Sanctuary, where vehicles cannot reach the base camp.
But don’t let that discourage you. The journey from Pokhara to Annapurna Base Camp is one of Nepal’s most rewarding adventures. This 2026 guide explains exactly how to reach ABC from Pokhara — covering every transport option, trailhead decision, and practical consideration that most other guides overlook.
Can You Drive to Annapurna Base Camp?
No. Annapurna Base Camp remains a vehicle-free sanctuary. The rugged terrain and environmental preservation make road construction impossible. You cannot drive a car, SUV, or motorcycle to the base camp .
What you can do:
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Drive from Pokhara to a trailhead in 1.5–4 hours
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Trek from that trailhead to ABC in 3–5 days
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Return by the same route or via a different trailhead
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Take a 25-minute helicopter flight directly from Pokhara to ABC
The road network in the Annapurna region has expanded significantly over the past decade. Villages that were once multi-day walks from the roadhead are now accessible by 4WD. But ABC itself remains reachable only on foot or by helicopter.
Your Trailhead Options from Pokhara
This is the most important decision you’ll make, and surprisingly few guides explain it clearly. The road from Pokhara can take you to several different starting points. Each affects your total trekking time, difficulty, and experience.
| Trailhead | Drive Time from Pokhara | Trekking Time to ABC | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ghandruk | 3–4 hours by jeep | 4–5 days | Most trekkers — best balance of scenery and saved time |
| Jhinu Danda | 3–4 hours by jeep | 3–4 days | Trekkers wanting hot springs and shorter itinerary |
| Nayapul | 1.5–2 hours by bus/jeep | 6–7 days | Purists, first-timers, full classic experience |
| Sinuwa | 4–5 hours by jeep | 3–4 days | Time-pressed trekkers willing to skip lower route |
Ghandruk Route (Most Recommended)
Ghandruk sits at around 1,940–2,012 meters and is the most popular starting point for a reason. You skip the lower-elevation walking but still get enough days on the trail to acclimatize properly .
The drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk takes approximately 3–4 hours by jeep. The road climbs through terraced hillsides, offering views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges on clear days .
From Ghandruk, the standard route to ABC follows:
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Ghandruk → Chhomrong → Sinuwa → Bamboo → Dovan → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp
Jhinu Danda Route (Hot Springs Option)
Jhinu Danda sits at approximately 1,700 meters and is known for its natural hot springs . This route has become increasingly popular because you can soak tired muscles before or after the trek.
The drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda takes roughly 3–4 hours. Many trekkers use this as an exit point after reaching ABC: they descend via the hot springs before returning to Pokhara .
From Jhinu, the trek to Chhomrong takes about 1.5–2 hours over roughly 2.5 km — making this a good option for a shorter itinerary.
Nayapul Route (The Classic)
If you want the full Annapurna Base Camp experience as it was traditionally walked, start at Nayapul. This was the original starting point before road improvements pushed higher into the valley.
The drive from Pokhara to Nayapul takes about 1.5–2 hours. From Nayapul, the route goes through Birethanti, Tikhedhunga, and eventually to Ghorepani Poon Hill before joining the main trail at Chhomrong .
Total days from Pokhara: 8–10 days. This is the longest option but offers the best acclimatization and the famous Poon Hill sunrise .
Sinuwa Route (Shortest Trekking Option)
For trekkers with limited time, Sinuwa is the highest trailhead accessible by road. You effectively cut out the lower sections of the trek entirely.
From Sinuwa, you can reach ABC in about 3 days of walking. This is a fast itinerary and not recommended for first-timers who need time to acclimatize.
How to Get from Pokhara to Your Trailhead
By Private Jeep (Recommended)
A private 4WD jeep is the most comfortable and flexible option. It offers door-to-door service from your Pokhara hotel to the trailhead, with the flexibility to stop for photos or breaks along the way .
Key details:
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Duration: 3–4 hours to Ghandruk or Jhinu, 1.5 hours to Nayapul
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Capacity: Up to 5–7 passengers (subject to weight limits)
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Driver: Experienced local who knows the rough roads
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Booking: Can be arranged through your hotel or directly with a local transport company
What to confirm before booking:
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The driver knows the exact trailhead location (not just “Ghandruk village”)
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The jeep has 4WD — this is not optional on these roads
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The price includes pickup from your hotel
By Shared Jeep (Budget Option)
Shared jeeps depart from Hari Chowk in Pokhara, usually between 6–9 AM, and leave when the vehicle is full . This is cheaper than a private jeep but less flexible.
Approximate cost: NPR 365–400+ per person (expect variation by season)
By Local Bus (Cheapest Option)
Local buses run from the Baglung Bus Park in Pokhara to Kimche, which is a 1-hour hike from Ghandruk . This is the cheapest option but also the least comfortable and most time-consuming.
Travel time: 4–5 hours, possibly longer
Comfort level: Basic; buses can be crowded on rough roads
By Tourist Bus
Tourist buses from Kathmandu to Pokhara are more comfortable than local buses, with air conditioning and reclining seats. However, for the Pokhara-to-trailhead segment, a jeep is the more practical choice .
Road Conditions and Seasonal Considerations
This is where outdated guides fail travelers. Roads in the Annapurna region are rough, narrow, and partially unpaved . 4WD is essential, especially during or after the monsoon.
Seasonal Road Conditions
| Season | Road Condition | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Generally good, dry | Low |
| Monsoon (Jun–Aug) | Prone to landslides and mudslides | High — can block roads for hours or days |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Improving after monsoon | Medium — recent landslides may be uncleared |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Snow possible at higher elevations, but lower roads usually clear | Medium — fog can reduce visibility |
2026 Monsoon Warnings
In July 2026, the ABC trekking route was damaged by heavy rainfall, with landslides affecting sections of the trail, suspension bridges, and two hotels along the route . The local trekking association called for tourists to avoid high-risk sections and evacuate along safe routes.
In August 2026, the route was reopened after landslides were cleared from the trail and the Narchyang-Humkhola road was repaired . This is the route via Besi village, which adds an alternative starting point for the trek.
If you’re traveling during the monsoon (June–September): build buffer days into your itinerary, check current road conditions locally, and expect the possibility of delays.
Walking the Route: What to Expect
Once you reach your trailhead, the actual walking route to ABC is well-established. All routes merge near Chhomrong and follow the same trail into the Annapurna Sanctuary .
Key Points Along the Route
Chhomrong is the last major village before the sanctuary and a key junction where routes from Ghandruk and Nayapul merge .
Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) sits at 3,700 meters and is the final overnight stop before ABC. The final push from MBC to ABC takes roughly 2 hours — altitude slows your pace significantly .
Annapurna Base Camp sits at 4,130 meters in a glacial amphitheater surrounded by Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South .
Elevations Along the Route
| Location | Altitude |
|---|---|
| Pokhara | 822 m |
| Ghandruk | 1,940 m |
| Chhomrong | 2,170 m |
| Sinuwa | 2,340 m |
| Bamboo | 2,310 m |
| Deurali | 3,230 m |
| Machhapuchhre Base Camp | 3,700 m |
| Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m |
Sources:
Maurice Herzog Trail (Besi Village Route)
The Maurice Herzog Trail — named after Annapurna’s first climber — begins at Humkhola. Travelers must cover 21 kilometers by vehicle from Besi village to Humkhola, followed by a 21-kilometer trek to the base camp .
This route offers an alternative entry point to the traditional Ghandruk-Nayapul approach. The rural municipality has upgraded the trail with shelters, drinking water, and toilet facilities at points along the way .
Helicopter Option: The Only Non-Trekking Alternative
If you’re short on time, physically unable to trek, or simply want the aerial experience, a helicopter is the only way to reach ABC without walking.
Flight time from Pokhara: Approximately 25 minutes
Pricing (2026):
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Group sharing: From approximately $450 USD per person
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Private charter: Approximately $2,000 USD for a helicopter carrying up to 5 people (subject to weight limits)
When to consider:
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You cannot walk due to fitness or health constraints
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You’re severely time-limited
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You want the aerial views (clear days offer spectacular panoramas)
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The trail is closed or blocked
Return Transportation
Return transport from the trailhead to Pokhara is often overlooked in planning.
From Ghandruk: Arrange a jeep back to Pokhara through your teahouse. The return journey takes about the same time as the outbound — 3–4 hours.
From Jhinu Danda: Similar arrangement. Jhinu is a common exit point, and teahouse owners can help book vehicles .
Hiking back to Nayapul: You can walk from ABC to Nayapul and take a vehicle from there, following the traditional return route. This is less common now that roads reach higher trailheads.
Pro tip: Arrange return transport before you start your final day’s walking. Trailhead villages sometimes have limited vehicles.
How Merriment Treks Can Help
Merriment Treks specializes in taking the guesswork out of the Pokhara-to-ABC transfer. With deep local knowledge of 2026 road conditions, reliable transport contacts, and an understanding of which trailhead matches your specific itinerary and fitness level, the company handles the logistics so you can focus on the trek.
Merriment Treks can arrange:
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Private or shared jeep transport from Pokhara to your chosen trailhead
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Current advice on road conditions and seasonal risks
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Help choosing between Ghandruk, Jhinu Danda, Nayapul, or Sinuwa based on your available days and fitness
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Return transport from the trailhead
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ACAP permits and TIMS cards
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Local guides who know the route and the villages
The company’s approach is practical: they don’t push one route as “best” for everyone. Instead, they help you choose the right starting point for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Reach ABC from Pokhara
1. Can you drive directly to Annapurna Base Camp from Pokhara?
No. There is no road into the Annapurna Sanctuary. The road ends at a trailhead like Ghandruk or Jhinu Danda, and you must walk or take a helicopter the rest of the way .
2. What is the best starting point for the ABC trek from Pokhara?
Ghandruk is the best balance for most trekkers — you skip lower-altitude walking but still get enough days on the trail for proper acclimatization. Jhinu Danda is better if you’re short on time; Nayapul is better if you want the full classic experience.
3. How long does the drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk take?
Approximately 3–4 hours by jeep, depending on road conditions .
4. Is there a bus from Pokhara to the trailhead?
Yes, local buses run from the Baglung Bus Park in Pokhara to Kimche, which is a 1-hour hike from Ghandruk. The journey is less comfortable and longer than by jeep .
5. Can you take a jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda?
Yes. The drive takes about 3–4 hours, similar to the Ghandruk route. Jhinu is also a common starting point and exit point .
6. How many days do you need from Pokhara to ABC and back?
From Ghandruk, plan 5–7 days. From Jhinu Danda, 4–5 days. From Nayapul, 8–10 days .
7. What is the shortest possible itinerary from Pokhara to ABC?
A 4-day itinerary is possible: drive to Jhinu Danda, trek to Bamboo, trek to ABC, and return . This is very fast and not recommended for first-timers due to altitude concerns.
8. Is starting from Ghandruk easier than starting from Nayapul?
You save a few days of walking, which means you skip lower elevation sections. However, the total altitude gain from Ghandruk to ABC is similar to the section from Nayapul, just compressed into fewer days.
9. What is the road like from Pokhara to Ghandruk?
Rough, narrow, and partially unpaved. A 4WD vehicle is essential, especially during or just after the monsoon .
10. What happens if the road is blocked by a landslide?
Roads can be blocked for hours or days during the monsoon. In July 2026, flooding and landslides damaged sections of the ABC trail . Build buffer days into your itinerary if traveling between June and September .
11. Can you take a helicopter from Pokhara to ABC?
Yes. It takes approximately 25 minutes. Prices start from about $450 USD per person for group-sharing or $2,000 USD for a private charter .
12. Should I book a private or shared jeep from Pokhara?
Private jeeps offer flexibility and direct door-to-door service. Shared jeeps are cheaper but you wait until the vehicle fills up. For groups of 3 or more, a private jeep usually makes sense .
13. What should I confirm before leaving Pokhara?
Confirm the driver knows the exact trailhead, the jeep has 4WD, and you have a clear understanding of the travel time. Also confirm where and how you’ll arrange return transport.
14. How do permits work for the ABC trek?
You need an ACAP permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). The ACAP permit costs NPR 3,000 for foreigners . These can be arranged in Pokhara at the Nepal Tourism Board office or through your trekking company .
15. Is the ABC trek open after the 2024 and 2026 flood damage?
As of August 2026, the ABC route has reopened after monsoon repairs. The Maurice Herzog Trail began operating again after landslides were cleared . Check local notices before departure, especially during the monsoon season .
