Do you want to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek from Indonesia? Are you an Indonesian traveler looking for a reliable travel company to do the ABC trek? Then you are at the right place.
Adventure has no language barrier or political boundary. Whether you are from Indonesia or any country in the world, when the Himalayas call, you must answer. For our adventure lovers in Indonesia, trekking in Nepal can sound daunting and perhaps a distant dream, too.The visa process, flight connections, trek permits, unpredictable Himalayan climate, rugged terrain, trekking clothes and gear, guide, accommodation, food, etc, may sound too much work.
We understand the concerns, and this is why we have curated this blog post. It is tailored to Indonesian trekkers to help them execute the Annapurna Base Camp trek from Indonesia.
The blog walks you through all the details of this trek and makes sure you are well aware of its challenges and requirements. We will share everything an Indonesian trekker should know about the ABC trek.
This Annapurna Base Camp trek from Indonesia blog is a complete guide for all Indonesian trekkers!
Your Himalayan dream- the Annapurna Base Camp trek
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the most adventurous, most famous, and incredible trekking programs in the Himalayas.
On this trek, you will trek through the lush hills and deep gorges of Annapurna Conservation Area and hike to the base camp of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Annapurna.
The journey is not technically demanding, but it's not easy either. You will need decent fitness and willpower to complete the trek.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek presents beautiful scenery, lovely Nepali villages, warm hospitality of the locals, crisp mountain air, lush vegetation, and towering mountains.
You will ascend and descend following rugged hills and verdant valleys to Annapurn Sanctuary. On the way, spend nights in Jhinu Danda, Chhomrong, and Deurali, and explore the Hinku Cave.
The vegetation and landscape in the Annapurna Sanctuary are more exquisite. You will pass by the Machhapuchhare Base Camp before reaching Annapurna Base Camp.
You can see numerous mountains such as Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, etc, during hiking.
As the trail ascends, the mountains get closer and prominent. The journey is exciting, soothing, inspiring, and scenically uplifting. The excitement increases when you get to spend a night at Annapurna Base Camp.
Yes, unlike the Everest Base Camp, trekkers can spend a night at the Annapurna Base Camp. There are a couple of lodges off the glacier where trekkers spend the night.
We also specialize in the Everest Base Camp trek from Indonesia!
Why is the Annapurna Base Camp trek one of the best treks for Indonesian trekkers in Nepal?
There are many reasons that make the Annapurna Base Camp trek a truly remarkable adventure trek for Indonesian trekkers in Nepal.
From the fitness requirement to the trekking infrastructure and scenery, we believe the Annapurna Base Camp trek suits the Indonesian trekkers best.
Breathtaking scenery:
On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you will enjoy an incredible variety of landscapes and mountain vistas. The scenery drastically changes with the change in elevation.
At the start of the trek, you will see lush hills, rivers, and terraces. Eventually, as the trail ascends, the hills get barren and the mountains get closer. The lush valleys change to rocky highlands, glaciers, and tall mountains.
Culture experiences:
The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you beyond nature, adventure, and mountains. You will experience Nepalese heritage and culture.
If you are interested in Nepali culture and traditions, do take your time and visit the historical sites in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Though you have limited time in both cities, we highly recommend visiting at least 2-3 tourist sites.
Likewise, during your night stays in different villages along the Annapurna Base Camp trek route, you will witness the way of life of the locals and their culture.
Diverse flora and fauna:
The Annapurna Base Camp trek route is within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail goes through diverse altitudes, so you will see various plants, flowers, birds, etc, while hiking.
The Annapurna Conservation Area is also home to many species of wildlife, but they do not show up on human trails. However, sometimes a few lucky trekkers may spot 1-2 wild animals during trekking.
Achievable challenge:
Completing the Annapurna Base Camp trek is not as challenging as other famous treks like the EBC and Annapurna Circuit. Most Indonesian trekkers can complete this trek with a little bit of preparation and support from a local trekking company like us.
The trails ascend and descend through forested hills, deep gorges, and glacier moraines. You will walk 5 to 6 hours a day minimum. The trail is rugged but well-maintained and achievable for most trekkers.
You do not need previous trekking expertise or very strong fitness. If you can push yourself to walk 5 to 6 hours a day, you can do the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal.
Trekking infrastructure:
The Annapurna Base Camp trek route is well established and has a good network of lodges for the trekkers. In the peak seasons, finding rooms can be challenging if you do not book them in advance.
In some villages, luxury lodges are also available that offer better rooms, private washrooms, and many services. Likewise, you will have access to a variety of food and drinks during the trek as well as facilities like hot showers, WiFi, etc.
Better services on the Annapurna Base Camp trek make it less mentally challenging!
Exceptional value for money:
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is an incredible value for your money. Compared to other trips around the world, the experience you will get during the Annapurna Base Camp trek is priceless. Whether you are on a tight budget or not, this trek will not disappoint you.
Life-changing trip and huge achievement:
Completing the Annapurna Base Camp trek is a huge achievement. The trek challenges you physically and mentally. You will get uncomfortable and push your limits.
Though you will be tired by the end of the journey, the experience, hardships, and rewards will make the trip a life-changing adventure. The memories you will have on this trek will stay with you forever.
Annapurna Base Camp trek outlined itinerary
Below, we have shared our best 10 days Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary. If you want to combine any other destinations like Ghorepani village or Ghandruk excursion in the itinerary or want to make any changes, feel free to let us know. We will customize the itinerary as per your requirements.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 m/2,690 ft) by tourist bus
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m/6,393 ft) and trek to Chhomrong (2,170 m/7,119 ft)
Day 04: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya/Deurali (3,174 m/10,413 ft)
Day 05: Trek from Himalaya/Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft)
Day 06: Enjoy a beautiful sunrise and descend to Bamboo (2,310 m/7,578 ft)
Day 07: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m/6,393 ft)
Day 08: Drive from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara (820 m/2,690 ft)
Day 09: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft)
Day 10: Final departure
Annapurna Base Camp trek detailed itinerary (day-by-day breakdown)
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Null
- Our team will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the hotel.
- You will have time to freshen up and rest before the trek briefing meeting later in the day.
- Meet with your guide and pack your duffel bags.
- Do last-minute trek shopping.
- End the day exploring the bustling streets of Thamel.
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus
Distance: 205 km/127 miles
Altitude: 820 m/2,690 ft
Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & lunch
- The day starts early with a big breakfast.
- After that, you will travel to Pokhara in a tourist bus.
- The ride will be scenic and comfortable.
- The highway between Kathmandu and Pokhara follows rolling, lush hills and rivers.
- The final 1-2 hour ride can get a bit bumpy depending on the road conditions.
- Evening is free in Pokhara. You can buy anything missing for the ABC trek in Pokhara.
- Explore the Lakeside Market and beautiful Phewa Lake. The view of Mt. Fishtail is outstanding from the lake.
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m/6,393 ft) and trek to Chhomrong
Trek distance: 8.5 km/5 miles
Altitude: 2,170 m/7,119 ft
Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Today is the first day of the trek. From Pokhara, you will take a 2-hour drive to Jhinu Danda.
- In Jhinu Danda, enjoy natural hot springs.
- The trail then goes along lush hills and rhododendron forests to Chhomrong village.
- From Pokhara, it will be around 1,350 meters of ascent.
Day 04: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya/Deurali
Trek distance: 12 km/7.4 miles
Altitude: 3,174 m/10,413 ft
Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- The trail descends to Chhomrong Khola and follows a stone staircase up the hill.
- Trek through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo.
- You will reach Upper Sinuwa, and from here, pass by Khulidghar and Bamboo settlements.
- You can spend a night at the Himalaya resting point or hike to Deurali for the night stay.
- Himalaya onwards, the trail goes through the narrow gorge alongside Modi Khola.
- Trek through dense forested hills and reach Hinku Cave. Deurali comes after Hinku Cave.
- From Chhomrong, it will be around 1,004 meters of ascent.
Day 05: Trek from Himalaya/Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp
Trek distance: 12.5 km/7.7 miles
Altitude: 4,130 m/13,550 ft
Duration: 5 hours trek
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Leaving Deurali, you will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary. The vegetation gets exotic, and as you ascend, the treeline slowly disappears.
- Follow a steep, narrow track to Machhapuchhare Base Camp. From here, the trail continues to Annapurna Base Camp.
- At ABC, you will be surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped mountains. Enjoy the views and later descend a few hundred meters off the glacier to reach the lodge.
- Spend the night at Annapurna Base Camp.
- From Deurali, it will be around 956 meters of ascent.
Day 06: Enjoy a beautiful sunrise and descend to Bamboo
Trek distance: 14 km/8.6 miles
Altitude: 2,310 m/7,578 ft
Duration: 6 hours
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Start the morning with a delicious breakfast and coffee/tea. Enjoy a beautiful sunrise and magical view of the morning hours.
- After breakfast, follow the same trail and descend to Bamboo. You will trek past Deurali and Himalaya before reaching Bamboo.
- From ABC, it will be around 1,820 meters of descent.
Day 07: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda
Trek distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles
Altitude: 1,780 m/6,393 ft
Duration: 3-4 hours trek
Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Today is the last day of the trek.
- From Bamboo, you will descend to Kimrong Khola.
- Follow a dense forest of bamboo and rhododendrons as you descend to Jhinu Danda.
- Enjoy natural hot springs later in the day. Perfect way to end the trek.
- From Bamboo, it will be around 350 meters of descent.
Day 08: Drive from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara
Drive distance: 27 km/17 miles
Altitude: 820 m/2,690 ft
Duration: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only
- Drive back to Pokhara early in the morning.
- Full day in Pokhara to rest, shop, and explore tourist sites.
- Visit Begnas Lake and Davis Falls, or explore limestone caves like Bat Cave or Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave.
- Buy souvenirs and taste Nepali delicacies while strolling on the Lakeside Market.
- If you do not want to visit any tourist sites, consider peaceful kayaking on Phewa Lake and enjoy a spa and body massage.
Day 09: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Drive distance: 205 km/127 miles
Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
Duration: 6/7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only
- Drive back to Kathmandu following the same highway.
- Evening is free in Kathmandu. Rest and explore the city at your own pace.
- Window shopping in Thamel is a must.
- We will meet in the late evening to give you the trek certificate and share your departure plan.
Day 10: Final departure
Meals: Breakfast only
- You will leave Kathmandu on this day.
- Get ready to leave the hotel on time.
- Our team will escort you to the international airport without any hassle and bid you our last good wishes.
Essential Annapurna Base Camp trek planning for Indonesian trekkers
Before you join the Annapurna Base Camp trek, there are a few things that you should know, such as the necessary documents, Nepal travel visa, the optimal time to trek, who to trek with, what to pack for the trek, etc.
Visa requirements for Indonesian travelers
Nepal offers an on-arrival travel visa for Indonesian travelers. Obtaining it is simple and easy. You can apply for an on-arrival travel visa upon landing at Kathmandu Airport.
The required documents for a travel visa are a passport with six months of validity, one passport-sized photo, and the visa fee, preferred in USD (you can use other major currencies as well). A travel visa is available for 15, 30, and 90 days.
Check more about the Nepal travel visa on this site.
*Visa fee is not covered in the Annapurna Base Camp trek package. So, make sure you are carrying the needed money.
Flights from Indonesia to Nepal
There are no direct flights from Indonesia to Nepal. Travelers usually have layovers in cities such as Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.
You can fly via Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, or any other airline of your choice. We recommend booking your round-trip flights in advance to get the best deals.
Spring and autumn are peak trekking seasons in Nepal. So, thousands of travelers from around the world fly in and out of Kathmandu Airport.
The high demands lead to a hike in flight fares, so book your flight early. Flight rates are low on weekdays. You can also use comparison websites to find the best deals.
*International flights to/from Kathmandu are not included in the ABC trek package. So, travelers have to pay the flight fares.
Nepali currency
In Nepal, we use Nepali currency. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can make payments using your cards in tourist areas, malls, and big shops. For local vendors and small shops, cash payment is necessary.
Likewise, during trekking, we recommend trekkers to budget USD 10 to USD 15 for their daily personal expenses. Take out cash for the trek in Pokhara. Locals along the trail do not expect payment via card or foreign currency.
Kathmandu to Pokhara travel options
You will land in Kathmandu because Nepal only has an operating international airport in this city at the moment. However, the Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from Pokhara.
Pokhara is located around 200 km away from Kathmandu. There are two ways to travel to Pokhara. First, you can take a short 25-minute domestic flight.
Second, you can go for a tourist bus or a private car. Tourist buses are the most affordable option compared to domestic flights and hiring a private car.
*Annapurna Base Camp trek package usually includes a tourist bus. You only have to pay extra money if you upgrade to a domestic flight or hire a private vehicle.
Best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek
Nepal has four seasons - spring (March to May), summer/monsoon (June to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to February).
All seasons have something unique to offer. In terms of best weather, climate, and views, spring and autumn are considered the best times to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Likewise, summer/monsoon and winter are considered offseasons, but you can trek in these seasons as well with proper preparations.
Trek solo or with a local Nepali trekking company like us?
Legally, Indonesians can do the Annapurna Base Camp trek by themselves. They can obtain the necessary permits from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
But trekking alone is not recommended. The Annapurna Base Camp trails are well-marked but not easy to navigate. Trekking with a local company like us ensures your safety and satisfaction.
During peak trekking seasons, you do not have to worry about accommodation and transportation. We will arrange it for you. Likewise, we will also provide you with a friendly guide and porter.
Annapurna Base Camp trek preparation
Preparation for the Annapurna Base Camp trek depends on your physical fitness. If you are not an active individual or have not done any trek before, then you must start exercising and walking early.
During the ABC trek, you will walk 5 to 6 hours a day on rugged terrain. So, you need good stamina and strength. Walking 5 to 6 hours a day itself is a huge challenge. Therefore, make sure you go on a regular walk to make a habit before the trek begins.
Likewise, strength training and cardio will help you to prepare for the trek physically. Plan a workout that suits your daily schedule and keep at least 2 to 4 months in hand to improve your fitness.
What kind of accommodation is available on the Annapurna Base Camp trek route?
Trekkers spend nights in a lodge during the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Lodges are simple accommodations. Lodges mostly have twin shared rooms and common washrooms. Single rooms cost extra money.
The rooms are small but cozy and comfortable. Western-style toilets are readily available on the ABC trek route. Trekkers are recommended to bring toilet paper and other toiletries for the trek. You can also carry a sleeping bag.
Packing list for the Annapurna Base Camp trek
We have categorized things that you will need during the Annapurna Base Camp trek below. This list will give you an idea of all the things you will need during the trek.
- Note that you do not have to purchase everything in Indonesia. You can do shopping for the trek in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You will have a plethora of options to choose from and the best prices.
- Clothes: Comfortable/breathable underwear, trekking t-shirts and pants, thermal layer, fleece jacket, down jacket, long-sleeve hiking shirt, waterproof/rainproof jacket and pant, waterproof/rainproof jacket and pant, liner socks and fuzzy socks, liner gloves (touch screen compatible) and thermal gloves, beanies (2) and scarf, dry towel
- Trekking gear: Duffel bag (we provide a free of cost duffel bag to use during the trek), sleeping bag with liner, day pack, trekking boots, UV sunglasses, trekking poles, water bottles, and water purification tablets
- Toiletries: SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, wet wipes, soap, hand sanitizer, shampoo, etc
- Miscellaneous: pocket mirror, travel knife, personal first aid kit, pocket torch, camera and spare batteries, Universal adapter, power bank, snacks, ORS or electrolyte powder, ziplock bag (handy to store used clothes and food), personal entertainment things (journal/pen, book, download music/podcast)
- Documents: Passport (at least six months of validity), Nepali tourist visa, passport-size photos, credit/debit card, cash, travel insurance document, emergency contact, and address
What's included in the Annapurna Base Camp trek package from Indonesia
Our Annapurna Base Camp trek package for Indonesian trekkers includes the following things:
- 2 nights in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara in a three-star hotel.
- 6 nights of simple lodge accommodation during the trek.
- Only breakfasts in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Three meals a day during the trek.
- Transportation (tourist bus) between Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Transportations (local bus/jeep) between Pokhara and Jhinu Danda.
- Annapurna Base Camp trek permits - TIMS and ACAP.
- An English-speaking, friendly guide and porter.
- The company's service charge and all taxes.
Our package includes complimentary services such as:
- Airport pick up and drop off.
- Base Camp Trip duffel bag to use during the trek.
- First aid kit with an oximeter.
- Trek certificate.
- All services will be provided as per the Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary. Additional services will cost extra money accordingly.
What are the additional expenses on the ABC trek?
The additional expenses you will encounter during the Annapurna Base Camp trek as an Indonesian trekker are
- International flight to/from Kathmandu.
- Trek gear and clothes.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Shopping and souvenirs.
- Bar bills.
- Accommodation or transportation upgrades.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for the guide and porter.
- Personal expenses like WiFi, hot shower, charging, and extra food and drinks during the trek.
Some other helpful information for Indonesian trekkers
- Travel insurance: The Annapurna Base Camp trek route is a remote area. It has no roads or reliable health facilities. So, helicopter evacuation becomes essential during an emergency. Evacuation costs a lot of money, so we recommend Indonesian trekkers to buy travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation for the ABC trek.
- Tips for guide and porter: Trekkers give tips to the guide and porter at the end of the trek for their service. Though tipping is not mandatory, it is a custom. The guide and porter do their best during the trek and look forward to tips. So, we recommend budgeting at least 10% to 15% of the total package cost to tip the guide and porter. You can tip more or less as per your wish.
- Additional stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Our Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary is flexible. If you want to extend your stay in Kathmandu or Pokhara, let us know. Hotel charges will be added accordingly.
- Indonesian food: In Kathmandu, you will find cuisines from around the world, including Indonesian food. Pokhara also has many multi-cuisine restaurants. During the trek, you will mainly have Nepali food and have a handful of Continental options.
- Age restrictions for ABC trek: There are no age restrictions for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. People of all ages can do this trek with us.
- Altitude sickness: ABC trek has the best pace to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness. Usually, altitude sickness happens if you are not acclimatized, which means you are not used to high elevation. Ascend slowly, maintain your pace, drink lots of water, and have ample food and rest to maintain your energy.
