Annapurna Base Camp Family and Senior Trek
- 15 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov)
We lead families and seniors to Annapurna Base Camp on an adjusted 15-day itinerary featuring shorter walking days and a steady pace.
At a glance
Trip overview
We have designed this 15-day trekking itinerary specifically for families, children, and older adults who wish to reach the foot of the Annapurna massif without the rushed pace of standard commercial departures. By extending the route over more days, we reduce daily walking distances and build in extra time for rest and adaptation.
The route climbs from the sub-tropical hills around Pokhara through dense forests of rhododendron and oak, crossing the Modi Khola river valley before entering the high mountain amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Along the way, we pass through Gurung settlements such as Chhomrong and Ghorepani, experiencing local mountain life and traditional hospitality.
We maintain a supportive team of experienced guides and porters who prioritize the safety and comfort of every participant. While reaching a maximum elevation of 4130 m at Annapurna Base Camp requires physical effort, our cautious ascent profile and attentive leadership make this high-altitude journey accessible to determined walkers of varied generations.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Poon Hill Sunrise
We climb early to the 3210 m viewpoint at Poon Hill to watch the sun hit Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchare.
Annapurna Sanctuary
We stand surrounded by towering snow and ice walls at the 4130 m glacial basin beneath Annapurna I.
Gurung Culture
We stay in traditional mountain villages like Chhomrong, inhabited by the Gurung community.
Rhododendron Forests
We walk beneath forest canopies that bloom with vibrant red and pink flowers during the spring months.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our representative meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport upon your arrival and transfers you to your hotel. Later in the day, we conduct a complete trek briefing to prepare you for the journey ahead.
Day 2
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 m)
Meals: B / L / D
We board our private vehicle for a 6 to 7 hour drive west toward Pokhara, following winding highway routes past terraced hillsides and rivers. By evening, we settle by the shores of Phewa Lake with views toward the Annapurna range.
Day 3
Drive to Birethanti, Trek to Ulleri (1040 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Drive to Birethanti, Trek to Ulleri (1040 m)
Meals: B / L / D
A short morning drive brings us to Birethanti where our trail begins. We tackle the sustained stone staircase known locally as the Ulleri steps, ascending steadily through farming hamlets before reaching our lodge.
Day 4
Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2880 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2880 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Our route continues upward through oak and rhododendron woodlands, passing small forest settlements like Banthanti and Nangethanti. We arrive in Ghorepani by afternoon, surrounded by high mountain ridges.
Day 5
Poon Hill Hike (3210 m) to Tadapani
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Poon Hill Hike (3210 m) to Tadapani
Meals: B / L / D
We make a pre-dawn ascent to Poon Hill to watch the sunrise over the high peaks. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, we continue our walk along forested ridges to reach Tadapani.
Day 6
Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170 m)
Meals: B / L / D
We descend through dense woodland populated by diverse bird species before crossing suspension bridges over local streams. The trail brings us into Chhomrong, a large Gurung village nestled beneath towering peaks.
Day 7
Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2600 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2600 m)
Meals: B / L / D
We descend stone steps out of Chhomrong, cross the Chhomrong Khola on a suspension bridge, and climb back through bamboo thickets toward Dovan, following the Modi Khola upstream.
Day 8
Trek from Dovan to Machhapuchare Base Camp (3700 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 8
Trek from Dovan to Machhapuchare Base Camp (3700 m)
Meals: B / L / D
The trail gains altitude as we move deeper into the sanctuary, passing avalanche paths and Himalayan waterfalls. We reach Machhapuchare Base Camp by afternoon to rest and adapt to the thin air.
Day 9
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 9
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m)
Meals: B / L / D
We take a short, careful walk from Machhapuchare Base Camp up to Annapurna Base Camp. We spend the afternoon surrounded by massive ice faces and peaks exceeding 8000 metres.
Day 10
Descend from Annapurna Base Camp to Dovan (2600 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 10
Descend from Annapurna Base Camp to Dovan (2600 m)
Meals: B / L / D
With our destination achieved, we retrace our steps down the valley, losing altitude steadily to make breathing easier and joints more comfortable as we descend to Dovan.
Day 11
Trek from Dovan to Chhomrong (2170 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 11
Trek from Dovan to Chhomrong (2170 m)
Meals: B / L / D
We continue our downward journey along the Modi Khola, climbing the stone stairs back into Chhomrong village where we spend the night among familiar teahouses.
Day 12
Trek from Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda (1780 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 12
Trek from Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda (1780 m)
Meals: B / L / D
A short trekking day brings us down to Jhinu Danda. In the afternoon, we have the option to visit the natural hot springs located down by the riverbank to soothe our muscles.
Day 13
Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara (820 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Day 13
Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara (820 m)
Meals: B / L / D
Our final morning of walking takes us along the Modi Khola valley to Nayapul. From there, our vehicle meets us for the short drive back to Pokhara for a restful evening by Phewa Lake.
Day 14
Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
Day 14
Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B / L / D
We travel back to Kathmandu by road or flight, returning to the capital. Our evening is free to relax, sort gear, and share a final dinner together.
Day 15
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 15
Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our team transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your international flight home, concluding your Himalayan journey with us.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Twin-share hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) on trek
- Experienced government-licensed guide and porters
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS card
- Ground transport by private vehicle as per itinerary
Not included
- International airfare and Nepal entry visa
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude emergency evacuation
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi fees at teahouses
- Tips for guides and porters
Before you go
Good to know
Altitude & acclimatisation
We reach a maximum altitude of 4130 m at Annapurna Base Camp. Our senior and family itinerary incorporates shorter daily walking stages and gradual height gains to help every member adjust safely to thinner air.
Pacing & group support
Our guides maintain a flexible, unhurried pace suited to varied fitness levels and ages. We provide additional assistant guides on senior and family departures to ensure personalized attention on every trail section.
Teahouse accommodation
We stay in local mountain lodges along the route. Rooms are simple and twin-share with basic bedding, while dining halls are warmed by central stoves during the evening.
Hydration & food safety
We advise drinking boiled or purified water throughout the trek rather than raw tap water. Our meal menus offer freshly cooked dal bhat, noodles, and soups prepared to high hygiene standards.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy trekking bootsEssential
Footwear
Ankle support and broken-in fit are essential for stone staircases.
Down jacketEssential
Clothing
Required for cold mornings and evenings at higher altitudes.
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Clothing
Protection against sudden rain or mountain showers.
Thermal base layersEssential
Clothing
Merino wool or synthetic tops and bottoms for cold nights.
Sleeping bag (-15°C rated)Essential
Camping
Teahouse blankets can be thin above 3000 m.
Trekking polesEssential
Safety
Crucial for protecting knees on stone steps and descents.
Reusable water bottle and purifierEssential
Safety
For safe drinking water management along the trail.
Valid passport and insurance documentsEssential
Documents
Must include high-altitude rescue coverage.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
PermitRequired for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.
TIMS Card
PermitTrekkers' Information Management System card for safety tracking.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is this trek suitable for children and seniors?
Yes. We have specifically structured this 15-day itinerary with shorter daily distances, gradual elevation gains, and an unhurried pace to accommodate children and older adults safely.
What is the highest altitude we reach?
The maximum elevation on this trip is 4130 m at Annapurna Base Camp.
What kind of accommodation is available on the trail?
We stay in local teahouses offering twin-share rooms with wooden beds and foam mattresses. Bathroom facilities are generally shared.
Do we need permits for this trek?
Yes. We arrange the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and your TIMS card as part of our service.
What are the best months to go?
We recommend the spring months from March to May and autumn months from September to November for the most stable weather and clear mountain views.
How heavy are the loads carried by porters?
Our porters carry group gear and duffel bags within safe weight limits, while you carry only a light daypack with your personal daily essentials.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 15 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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