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Winter transforms the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek into one of Nepal’s most magical Himalayan adventures. While many trekkers choose spring or autumn, those who venture into the Annapurna region during winter are rewarded with crystal-clear mountain views, peaceful trails, snow-covered forests, and an unforgettable alpine experience. From December through February, the Annapurna Sanctuary becomes a winter wonderland where the beauty of the Himalayas can be enjoyed without the crowds.
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks specializes in organizing safe, comfortable, and memorable winter trekking holidays throughout Nepal. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a first-time trekker, our professional team arranges every aspect of your journey—from permits and transportation to experienced guides, porters, accommodation, meals, and hotel reservations in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and other popular tourist destinations.
Our winter Annapurna Base Camp packages are available in Budget, Deluxe, and Luxury options. We also organize private treks, group departures, student treks, research expeditions, family holidays, and Christmas and New Year special departures. Every itinerary can be customized according to your schedule, fitness level, and travel preferences.
Winter offers a unique perspective of the Annapurna region. The air is exceptionally clear, making mountain views more spectacular than at any other time of year. Snow blankets the upper trails and villages, creating postcard-perfect scenery while lower elevations remain comfortably accessible.
Unlike the busy trekking seasons, winter provides peaceful walking trails where trekkers can truly appreciate the beauty of nature. Sunrise and sunset over Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Annapurna South are breathtaking during this season.
Another advantage is the warm hospitality of the local Gurung and Magar communities. Cozy teahouses with wood-burning stoves provide a welcoming atmosphere after each day of trekking.
The classic winter itinerary begins in Kathmandu before traveling to Pokhara. From Pokhara, a scenic drive takes trekkers to Nayapul or Ghandruk, depending on the itinerary.
The trail passes through beautiful villages such as:
After enjoying panoramic mountain views at Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers return via the same route, often stopping at Jhinu Danda to relax in the natural hot springs before driving back to Pokhara.
Winter weather is generally stable with sunny mornings and clear skies. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations range between 8°C and 15°C, while nighttime temperatures can fall below freezing. At Annapurna Base Camp, temperatures may reach -10°C to -15°C during cold nights.
Although snowfall is common at higher elevations, the trails are usually manageable with proper equipment and guidance. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks closely monitors weather conditions and adjusts itineraries if necessary to ensure safety.
The winter trekking season runs from December to February.
Each month offers different advantages:
December
January
February
All trekkers must obtain the required permits before entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Permit Fee:
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks arranges all trekking permits on behalf of our clients, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process before your trek begins.
A knowledgeable trekking guide greatly enhances your experience by ensuring safety, providing local insights, and managing logistics.
USD 30 per day
Our guides are:
Many solo female travelers and women's groups prefer trekking with a female guide.
Female Guide Cost
USD 30 per day (on request)
Our experienced female trekking guides provide professional service while ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.
For travelers who prefer communication in their native language, Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks can arrange multilingual guides.
Available languages include:
Cost: USD 50–70 per day, depending on the language and availability.
Hiring a porter makes the trek much more enjoyable by allowing you to walk comfortably with a light daypack.
Porter Cost
USD 20 per day
A porter typically carries up to 20–25 kg, shared between two trekkers.
For budget-conscious travelers, we also offer a porter-cum-guide service.
Cost
USD 25 per day
A porter-cum-guide carries luggage while providing basic trekking guidance, making this an economical option for solo trekkers or small groups.
The safety and welfare of our staff are our highest priorities.
We provide comprehensive insurance coverage for guides and porters during the trek.
Insurance Cost
USD 50
This includes emergency medical and accident coverage while working on the trek.
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks arranges all transportation according to your chosen package.
Private jeep or local transportation can be arranged depending on your itinerary and group size.
Private transportation provides greater comfort and flexibility, especially during winter when road conditions may vary.
One of the biggest advantages of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is its excellent teahouse network. Even during winter, most lodges remain open, providing warm meals, comfortable rooms, and genuine Himalayan hospitality. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks carefully selects clean and reliable teahouses to ensure a pleasant experience throughout your journey.
Trekkers require nutritious meals to maintain energy at higher elevations. Our guides recommend eating freshly prepared local food, which is healthier and more reliable than imported packaged items.
Typical breakfast options include:
Lunch and dinner menus usually offer:
Garlic soup is especially popular at higher elevations because many trekkers believe it may help support acclimatization, although it should not be considered a treatment for altitude sickness.
Depending on the season and elevation, food generally costs USD 25–40 per person per day. Prices increase at higher altitudes because supplies are transported by porters and mules.
Teahouses provide simple but comfortable twin-sharing rooms with beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets. During winter, extra blankets are usually available, but bringing a warm sleeping bag is highly recommended.
Most teahouses have:
Higher-elevation accommodations are more basic than those in lower villages, but they provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere after a day on the trail.
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks can arrange hotel reservations before and after your trek, making your travel experience smooth and convenient.
Kathmandu offers accommodations for every budget.
Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and an ideal place to relax before or after trekking.
Accommodation options include:
Many rooms offer spectacular views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range.
After trekking, many travelers enjoy a jungle safari in Chitwan.
We arrange:
Packages can include:
We also arrange hotels and transportation for:
Whether you are extending your holiday or planning a complete Nepal tour, our team can organize accommodation and logistics throughout the country.
At Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks, we understand that every traveler has different expectations and budgets. We therefore offer several package categories.
Ideal for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.
Includes:
Suitable for travelers seeking extra comfort.
Includes:
Designed for those seeking premium services.
Includes:
Already planned your trek but need professional support? We offer guide-only services.
Our licensed guides can assist with:
Guide hire starts from USD 30 per day.
Our office manages all required trekking permits before your departure. This saves valuable time and ensures that all documentation is correctly prepared.
Permit services include:
Joining a group is an excellent way to reduce costs and meet fellow trekkers from around the world.
Benefits include:
We publish regular fixed departures from December through February, including departures during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
For travelers seeking flexibility and privacy, we organize fully customized private treks.
Private treks are ideal for:
Advantages include:
Traveling alone? Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks organizes solo winter treks with experienced guides to ensure safety and a personalized experience.
Solo trekkers receive:
We encourage young adventurers to explore Nepal responsibly.
Special discounts are available for:
A valid student identification card may be required.
Our company regularly supports:
We can arrange permits, logistics, field support, transportation, and experienced local staff tailored to research needs.
Small groups of 2–10 participants enjoy:
We specialize in handling larger groups of 10 or more participants, providing:
Celebrating Christmas or welcoming the New Year in the Himalayas is a memorable experience. Our special seasonal departures include festive dinners (where possible), group celebrations, and carefully planned itineraries to make the most of the winter scenery.
Whether you travel alone, with friends, or as a family, our Christmas and New Year treks combine adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and warm Nepalese hospitality.
Packing the right equipment is essential for a safe and enjoyable winter trek. Temperatures at Annapurna Base Camp can drop to -10°C to -15°C at night, so warm clothing and reliable gear are necessary.
Carry a small first aid kit containing:
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek reaches 4,130 meters, where the risk of altitude sickness increases. Anyone can develop AMS, regardless of age or fitness.
Our licensed guides are trained in first aid and altitude awareness and will monitor your condition throughout the trek.
Your safety is the top priority at Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks.
We provide:
By trekking with an experienced local team, you can focus on enjoying the journey while we manage the logistics.
We encourage all trekkers to help preserve the Annapurna region for future generations.
Our responsible tourism practices include:
Sustainable trekking benefits both local communities and the environment.
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks is committed to providing safe, reliable, and personalized trekking experiences across Nepal. Our team combines local expertise with professional service to create memorable Himalayan adventures.
Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring your winter trek is safe, comfortable, and rewarding.
Yes. With proper preparation, suitable clothing, and an experienced guide, the trek is an excellent winter adventure offering clear skies and fewer crowds.
Hiring a licensed guide is strongly recommended for safety, navigation, and local knowledge. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks provides experienced guides for USD 30 per day.
Yes. Porter service is available for USD 20 per day, allowing you to trek with a lighter backpack.
Yes. Professional female trekking guides are available on request for USD 30 per day.
Yes. We organize regular fixed departures throughout the winter season, including Christmas and New Year treks.
Yes. We organize fully customized private treks for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups.
Yes. Student groups may be eligible for special discounts with valid identification.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required:
We arrange all necessary permits before the trek.
December, January, and February all offer excellent trekking conditions, each with its own appeal. December is slightly milder, January offers the most snow, and February brings slightly warmer weather and longer daylight hours.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek in winter is a remarkable journey through snow-covered forests, traditional mountain villages, and some of the world's most spectacular Himalayan scenery. Whether you are traveling alone, with family, or as part of a group, Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks provides the expertise and support needed for a successful adventure.
From permits and transportation to experienced guides, porters, accommodations, and customized trekking packages, we take care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying the beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Choose from our Budget, Deluxe, or Luxury packages, join a fixed departure, arrange a private trek, or celebrate the festive season with our Christmas and New Year departures. Whatever your travel style, we are ready to help you create unforgettable memories in the Himalayas.
Our experienced team is ready to assist with:
We look forward to welcoming you to Nepal and helping you experience the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in winter with confidence, comfort, and exceptional local hospitality.
Elevation: 1,350 meters
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Welcome Dinner (Optional)
Your unforgettable Winter Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal. Upon arrival, a representative from Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in a comfortable private vehicle.
After checking into your hotel, you will have time to relax after your international journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a leisurely walk through the lively streets of Thamel, Kathmandu's famous tourist district filled with trekking shops, cafés, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
In the evening, our trekking guide will conduct a detailed pre-trek briefing. During this meeting, you will receive information about the itinerary, winter weather conditions, altitude awareness, trekking equipment, accommodation, meals, and safety procedures. Our guide will also inspect your trekking gear to ensure you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
If you are missing any essential winter equipment such as down jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles, or crampons, Kathmandu offers excellent rental and purchase options.
For those interested, we can organize a traditional Nepali welcome dinner featuring authentic local cuisine and cultural performances.
Driving Time: 6–7 Hours
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Elevation: 827 meters
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, your scenic drive begins toward Pokhara, Nepal's beautiful lakeside city and the gateway to the Annapurna region. The journey follows the Prithvi Highway alongside the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers, passing charming villages, terraced farms, lush hills, and dramatic river valleys.
Winter is one of the best times to travel this route because clear skies provide spectacular views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks along the way.
Several rest stops allow you to enjoy tea, coffee, and local snacks while admiring Nepal's diverse countryside.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you'll check into your hotel near the picturesque Phewa Lake. The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore the lakeside promenade, enjoy a peaceful boat ride, visit cafés, or simply relax while admiring reflections of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) in the calm waters.
Pokhara's mild winter climate provides an excellent opportunity to rest before beginning the trek.
Driving Time: Approximately 2.5–3 Hours
Walking Time: 2–3 Hours
Elevation Gain: 390 meters
Accommodation: Mountain Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early breakfast, we leave Pokhara by private vehicle and drive through scenic mountain roads toward Jhinu Danda, the official starting point of today's trek. The road winds through picturesque villages, terraced rice fields, and forests while offering excellent views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Upon reaching Jhinu Danda, the trekking adventure officially begins.
The trail gradually climbs through lush forests and traditional Gurung settlements before reaching the beautiful village of Chhomrong, one of the largest villages in the Annapurna region.
Chhomrong sits on a hillside overlooking deep valleys with magnificent views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. During winter, snow often decorates the surrounding mountain slopes, creating stunning scenery.
After checking into your teahouse, you can relax with a hot cup of tea while enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Our guide will brief you about the next day's trail and monitor everyone's physical condition as the elevation gradually increases.
Walking Time: 5–6 Hours
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Elevation: 2,310 meters
Accommodation: Mountain Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's trek introduces you to the rich natural beauty of the Annapurna Conservation Area. After breakfast, the trail descends via thousands of stone steps to cross the Chhomrong Khola on a suspension bridge.
From there, the route climbs steadily through dense rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forests toward Sinuwa.
The forest becomes increasingly tranquil as you continue toward Bamboo. Winter transforms the landscape into a peaceful wonderland, with occasional patches of snow appearing along the trail.
This section is famous for its biodiversity. Lucky trekkers may spot Himalayan langurs, colorful pheasants, and a variety of native bird species.
After lunch, the trail continues through cool bamboo forests before reaching the small settlement of Bamboo, surrounded by towering cliffs and dense woodland.
The peaceful setting makes Bamboo an ideal place to rest before continuing toward higher elevations.
Your guide will once again check your health, hydration, and acclimatization while explaining the next stage of the journey toward Annapurna Base Camp.
As night falls, enjoy a hearty dinner beside the warm dining room stove while exchanging stories with fellow trekkers from around the world.
Maximum Elevation: 3,200 meters
Walking Distance: Approximately 11 km
Walking Duration: 6–7 Hours
Accommodation: Mountain Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Wake up to the peaceful sounds of the forest and enjoy a warm breakfast before beginning today's trek. Leaving Bamboo, the trail gently climbs through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, where sunlight filters through the trees, creating a magical winter atmosphere.
The trail passes through the small settlement of Dovan before continuing toward the Himalaya Hotel area. Along the way, you will cross several wooden bridges spanning icy mountain streams fed by glaciers high above. During winter, snow often decorates the surrounding forests, creating beautiful photographic opportunities.
As you gain elevation, the vegetation becomes thinner, and breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs begin to appear. The Modi Khola River continues to accompany you through the valley while waterfalls freeze into impressive ice formations during colder months.
After lunch, the trail climbs steadily toward Deurali, where the valley opens dramatically beneath the towering peaks of Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. The fresh mountain air, peaceful surroundings, and spectacular scenery make Deurali one of the most memorable overnight stops on the trek.
Upon arrival, settle into your comfortable teahouse and enjoy a hot drink while watching the late afternoon sunlight illuminate the snow-covered mountains.
Your guide will monitor everyone's health, hydration, and acclimatization, ensuring that all trekkers are well prepared for the following day's ascent to Annapurna Base Camp.
Maximum Elevation: 4,130 meters
Walking Distance: Approximately 10 km
Walking Duration: 5–6 Hours
Accommodation: Mountain Teahouse at Annapurna Base Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today is the most exciting and rewarding day of your Winter Annapurna Base Camp Trek. After an early breakfast, you leave Deurali and gradually ascend through the spectacular upper Modi Khola Valley.
The trail becomes more open as you leave the forest behind and enter the magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary. During winter, the landscape is transformed into a breathtaking alpine world of snow-covered slopes, glaciers, and towering Himalayan peaks.
The first destination is Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m). Although climbing Machhapuchhre is prohibited because it is considered sacred, its dramatic pyramid-shaped summit dominates the skyline. This is an ideal place to stop for tea, rest, and photography while enjoying panoramic views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna III.
From Machhapuchhre Base Camp, the trail climbs gradually across the glacial moraine toward Annapurna Base Camp. As you approach the sanctuary, the surrounding mountains seem to rise vertically around you, creating one of the most impressive natural amphitheaters on Earth.
Finally, you arrive at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), surrounded by some of the world's highest mountains, including:
Standing at the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary is an unforgettable achievement. During winter, the snow-covered landscape creates an atmosphere of peace and grandeur rarely experienced during busier trekking seasons.
After taking photographs and celebrating your accomplishment, check into your teahouse and enjoy a warm meal while watching the sunset paint the Himalayan peaks in brilliant shades of gold and orange.
Maximum Elevation: 4,130 meters
Walking Distance: Approximately 18 km
Walking Duration: 7–8 Hours
Accommodation: Mountain Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today begins with one of the greatest moments of the entire journey. Before sunrise, step outside your teahouse to witness the first golden rays of sunlight illuminating Annapurna I and the surrounding Himalayan giants.
The peaceful silence of the sanctuary, combined with the breathtaking sunrise reflecting off the snow-covered peaks, creates a magical experience that will remain with you for a lifetime. Winter's clear skies often provide exceptional visibility, making this one of the finest sunrise viewpoints in Nepal.
After enjoying breakfast and taking final photographs, begin your descent. Retracing your steps through Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Deurali allows you to appreciate the landscape from a different perspective.
Descending gradually, breathing becomes easier as the altitude decreases. The return journey passes alpine meadows, frozen waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and eventually re-enters the beautiful bamboo and rhododendron forests.
The warmer temperatures at lower elevations provide a welcome contrast after spending the night at Annapurna Base Camp.
By late afternoon, you arrive back at Bamboo, where a hot meal and comfortable teahouse await. Gather around the dining room stove with fellow trekkers, share stories from the adventure, and celebrate reaching one of Nepal's most iconic trekking destinations.
Maximum Elevation: 2,310 meters
Ending Elevation: 827 meters
Walking Distance: Approximately 10 km
Walking Duration: 5–6 Hours
Driving Time: 2.5–3 Hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
After enjoying breakfast at Bamboo, begin the final day of trekking as you retrace the scenic trail through bamboo forests and rhododendron woodlands. The fresh mountain air, peaceful surroundings, and magnificent Himalayan scenery make this an enjoyable descent.
The trail gradually climbs back to Sinuwa before descending the long stone staircases toward Chhomrong. Along the way, you will pass charming Gurung villages where friendly local people continue their traditional mountain lifestyle. Terraced fields, suspension bridges, and crystal-clear mountain streams create countless opportunities for photography.
After crossing the Chhomrong Khola, the trail descends gently to the beautiful village of Jhinu Danda, famous throughout Nepal for its natural hot springs.
One of the highlights of today's journey is relaxing in the warm natural pools located beside the Modi Khola River. After several days of trekking through snow-covered mountain trails, soaking in these mineral-rich hot springs provides the perfect opportunity to relax tired muscles and celebrate the successful completion of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Following lunch at Jhinu Danda, meet your waiting vehicle for the scenic drive back to Pokhara. The drive passes picturesque villages, lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and beautiful river landscapes before arriving in Nepal's most popular lakeside city.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your comfortable hotel. The evening is free to stroll along Lakeside, enjoy local cafés and restaurants, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax while watching the sunset over Phewa Lake.
After several nights in mountain teahouses, the comfortable hotel in Pokhara offers a refreshing change, allowing you to enjoy a hot shower, comfortable bed, and modern facilities.
Driving Distance: Approximately 200 km
Driving Duration: 6–7 Hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast overlooking beautiful Phewa Lake, begin your scenic return journey to Kathmandu.
The drive follows the Prithvi Highway, one of Nepal's most picturesque highways, winding alongside the Trishuli River through beautiful countryside filled with terraced farmland, traditional villages, forests, and dramatic river gorges.
Several rest stops along the journey allow you to enjoy tea, coffee, and lunch while admiring Nepal's rural landscapes.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel before enjoying a free afternoon to explore the city's rich cultural heritage. This is an excellent opportunity to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, or Pashupatinath Temple. If you prefer shopping, Thamel offers a wide variety of handicrafts, trekking equipment, pashmina products, and traditional Nepalese souvenirs.
In the evening, Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks can arrange a special farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Share memories from your trek with your guide and fellow travelers while enjoying authentic Nepalese cuisine and cultural performances featuring traditional music and dance.
It is a wonderful way to celebrate the completion of your Winter Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Meals: Breakfast
Your memorable Winter Annapurna Base Camp Trek comes to an end today.
After breakfast, depending on your international flight schedule, a representative from Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
As you leave Nepal, you will take home unforgettable memories of spectacular Himalayan landscapes, peaceful snow-covered trails, traditional mountain villages, friendly local hospitality, and the incredible achievement of standing in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Whether it was your first trek in Nepal or one of many Himalayan adventures, the Winter Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers an experience that will remain with you for a lifetime.
We hope to welcome you again for another exciting journey, whether it is Everest Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley, Manaslu Circuit, Upper Mustang, or one of Nepal's many remarkable trekking destinations.
Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks is committed to providing safe, reliable, and personalized trekking experiences across Nepal. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of winter trekking and ensures every aspect of your journey is professionally managed.
| Day | Route | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,350 m |
| 2 | Drive to Pokhara | 827 m |
| 3 | Drive to Jhinu Danda, Trek to Chhomrong | 2,170 m |
| 4 | Trek to Bamboo | 2,310 m |
| 5 | Trek to Deurali | 3,200 m |
| 6 | Trek to Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m |
| 7 | Sunrise at ABC, Trek to Bamboo | 2,310 m |
| 8 | Trek to Jhinu Danda, Drive to Pokhara | 827 m |
| 9 | Drive to Kathmandu | 1,350 m |
| 10 | Final Departure | — |
Experience the magic of the Himalayas during the quiet winter season with Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks. Our professional guides, reliable support staff, carefully planned itineraries, and personalized service ensure a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable adventure. Whether you choose a Budget, Deluxe, or Luxury package, travel privately, join a fixed departure, or celebrate Christmas and New Year in the Annapurna Sanctuary, we are dedicated to making your journey exceptional.
From the moment you arrive in Nepal until your final departure, Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks takes care of every detail—including permits, transportation, accommodation, experienced guides, porters, and 24-hour support—allowing you to focus on enjoying one of the world's most spectacular winter trekking experiences. We look forward to welcoming you to Nepal and helping you create memories that will last a lifetime.
