North Annapurna Base Camp (North ABC) is a hidden gem tucked in the heart of the Annapurna region of Nepal. Unlike the classic Annapurna Base Camp trail, this route remains far less crowded, making it a top choice for trekkers who want raw Himalayan beauty without the tourist rush. This guide covers everything you need to know before heading to North ABC, from location and distance to cost, itinerary, and difficulty.
North ABC is located in the Annapurna Conservation Area of Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal. More specifically, it sits on the northern flank of Annapurna I (8,091 m), which is the 10th highest mountain in the world. The trail passes through the remote Mardi Himal corridor and leads trekkers into a less-explored glacial valley that faces the north side of the Annapurna massif.
The coordinates of North ABC fall approximately at 28.5744 degrees North latitude and 83.8644 degrees East longitude. It lies northeast of Pokhara, the main gateway city, and is accessible via Kande or the Siding village trail.
North ABC sits at approximately 4,000 to 4,100 meters (13,123 to 13,451 feet) above sea level. The exact elevation of the viewpoint and campsite area varies by source, but most trekking agencies and GPS data confirm it is around 4,080 meters. This elevation is significantly lower than the classic Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, yet the views of Annapurna I from the north are considered far more dramatic and up-close.
The North ABC trek map starts from Pokhara and moves northeast through Kande or the Australian Camp area, then continues along the Mardi Himal ridge before branching off toward Siding village and Humkhola. From Humkhola, the trail pushes further into the valley until it reaches North ABC. The North ABC Map shows the route running parallel to but separate from the standard ABC trail.
Key landmarks on the North ABC trek map include:
From Pokhara, trekkers typically take a local jeep or bus to Kande or Siding village, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by road. From there, the trail begins on foot. The total trekking distance from Pokhara to North ABC, counting road access, covers roughly 50 to 60 kilometers round trip, depending on the exact route taken.
Reaching North Annapurna Base Camp requires a TIMS card and an ACAP permit, both of which you can obtain in Pokhara. Here is a straightforward step-by-step breakdown:
The total North ABC trek distance from Kande to North ABC and back is approximately 40 to 50 kilometers. Because this is an out-and-back route, the return distance is the same. Trekkers cover around 10 to 15 kilometers per day on average, depending on their pace and fitness level.
Humkhola to North ABC distance is approximately 8 to 10 kilometers one way. This section is the most challenging part of the trek because the trail gains significant elevation rapidly. Trekkers typically take 4 to 6 hours to cover this stretch, moving through rocky moraines and glacial terrain. It is advisable to start early in the morning from Humkhola to reach North ABC before noon and return by evening.
The North ABC trek itinerary 3 days is the most popular option for trekkers who want a quick but rewarding Himalayan adventure. Below is a straightforward day-by-day plan:
North ABC trek is rated moderate to challenging. It is not a technical climb, meaning no ropes or special mountaineering gear are required. However, the trail from Humkhola to North ABC involves steep sections, loose rocks, and glacial terrain that demand physical fitness and careful footing. Moreover, because of its remote character, rescue and resupply options are limited.
Key challenges include:
Most trekkers complete the North ABC trek in 3 to 5 days. The 3-day itinerary suits physically fit trekkers with prior trekking experience. A 4 to 5-day plan, on the other hand, is better for beginners or those who want more buffer time for acclimatization and photography. Adding an extra day at Humkhola or the midpoint reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
North ABC trek cost for Nepali citizens is considerably lower than for foreign nationals because Nepali trekkers are exempt from TIMS card fees in many cases and pay reduced ACAP entry fees. Here is a general cost breakdown:
For foreign nationals, the total cost ranges from USD 150 to USD 400 for a self-guided 3-day trek, and USD 400 to USD 700 or more with a professional guide and porter from a licensed agency like Trexmount Ventures.
North ABC is located on the northern side of Annapurna I, whereas the classic Annapurna Base Camp sits on the southern approach. Both are within the Annapurna Conservation Area in Kaski District, Nepal. However, the routes are entirely separate, and North ABC is far less visited, offering a more remote and raw trekking experience compared to the popular southern trail.
The Humkhola to North ABC stretch is the most demanding part of the trek. The trail gains around 1,200 to 1,300 meters in elevation over roughly 8 to 10 kilometers. The path crosses rocky moraines, loose boulders, and glacial zones. Trekkers should be in good physical condition, start early in the morning, and carry plenty of water and energy food for this leg.
While it is technically possible to trek independently, hiring a local guide from a reputable company like Trexmount Ventures is strongly recommended. The trail to North ABC is not well marked in several sections, especially beyond Humkhola. A certified guide not only ensures safety but also helps with cultural experiences, emergency situations, and navigation in poor weather.
The best seasons for the North ABC trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally clear, offering the best mountain views. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall and slippery trails. Winter (December to February) is cold and may bring snowfall above 3,000 meters.
Yes, beginners can attempt the North ABC trek, provided they choose a 4 to 5 day itinerary and hire an experienced guide. The trek does not require technical mountaineering skills. However, beginners should prepare with regular cardio exercise, build stamina through hiking, and consult a doctor before departure, particularly about altitude sickness prevention.
You need two main permits for the North ABC trek. First, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs NPR 3,000 for foreigners and NPR 100 for Nepali nationals. Second, the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card, which costs NPR 2,000 for independent trekkers. Both permits are available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Teahouses and basic homestays are available up to Lwang village. Beyond Lwang toward Humkhola and North ABC, accommodation options are very limited and sometimes unavailable. Therefore, most trekking parties carry camping gear or arrange accommodation in advance through a trekking agency. Trexmount Ventures can arrange full camping support for the trail.
The total North ABC trek distance from Kande or Siding to North ABC and back is approximately 60 to 65 kilometers, including road transfers from Pokhara. The one-way trail distance from the trailhead to North ABC is around 30 to 32 kilometers. Daily walking distances range from 10 to 15 kilometers, depending on the chosen itinerary and pace.
Temperatures at North ABC (around 4,080 meters) can drop to minus 5 to minus 15 degrees Celsius at night, especially in October, November, and March. During the day, temperatures usually range between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius in the peak seasons. Trekkers should carry a quality sleeping bag rated to minus 10 degrees, warm base layers, a down jacket, and waterproof outer clothing.
Absolutely. The North ABC trek offers a far more intimate view of Annapurna I from its northern face, which most trekkers and mountaineers agree is the more dramatic and less seen angle of the mountain. Furthermore, the trail is significantly less crowded, making it a better experience for those seeking solitude in nature. In summary, North ABC is ideal for adventure seekers who want something beyond the standard trails.
At Trexmount Ventures, we specialize in crafting personalized, safe, and enriching trekking experiences across Nepal. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, our team of certified local guides brings deep knowledge of the North ABC trail, Annapurna Conservation Area, and everything in between. We handle all your permits, logistics, accommodation, and safety needs so that you can focus entirely on the experience. Contact Trexmount Ventures today to plan your North ABC adventure and take the first step toward one of Nepal’s most rewarding off-the-beaten-path treks.
