The Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, offered by Hairy Yak Adventures, is a 6-7 day, approximately 45-50 km camping trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region, following the historic Maurice Herzog Trail to the North Annapurna Base Camp (4,190 m / 13,747 ft). Priced at $490 per person for a group of two or more, this moderately challenging trek explores a less-crowded, recently opened route (2019) in the Annapurna Conservation Area, ideal for adventurers seeking wilderness and solitude. Starting from Pokhara (830 m / 2,723 ft) and reaching the base camp via Narchyang and Chhotepa, the trek retraces the 1950 French expedition route led by Maurice Herzog, the first confirmed ascent of an 8,000-meter peak (Annapurna I, 8,091 m / 26,545 ft). Key highlights include panoramic views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Hiunchuli, the serene Narchyang Lake, and interactions with Gurung communities in villages like Upper Narchyang.
Unlike the popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek (south side, 4,130 m), this northern route is lodge-free, requiring camping equipment, a guide, and porters, which enhances its remote appeal. The trail passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and high-altitude meadows, offering biodiversity like Himalayan monal birds and musk deer. With daily hikes of 6-8 hours and a maximum altitude of 4,190 m, it suits fit trekkers with some high-altitude experience. The trek is best in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies and mild temperatures (10–20°C daytime, -5°C nights), though monsoon (June–August) is feasible with rain gear. A Restricted Area Permit is not required, but an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card are mandatory, arranged by Hairy Yak Adventures, supporting sustainable tourism in this pristine region.
Explore a recently opened, less-traveled trail with pristine Himalayan scenery.
Trek through the scenic Narchyang valley and visit its serene lake.
Experience camping under starry Himalayan skies, immersed in untouched wilderness.
Follow the historic French North Face route, the first ascent path of Annapurna I.
Encounter rich biodiversity and unique cultural interactions in remote villages.
The $490 per person cost for a 6-7 day Annapurna North Base Camp Trek with Hairy Yak Adventures is competitive for a camping trek, aligning with budget offerings cited by sources like Wilderness Excursion ($490 for a similar route) and slightly below Nepal Trek Hub’s 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek ($500–$600). This all-inclusive price for a group of two or more covers:
Permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $25 for foreigners, $10 for SAARC nationals.
TIMS card: $8 for group trekkers, $15 for solo trekkers.
Total permit cost: ~$33–$40.
Transportation: Jeep from Pokhara to Tatopani (6-7 hours, 115 km, $150–$200, split among 4–6 people) and return to Pokhara.
Camping and Meals: Tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and three meals daily (Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, $15–$20/day, ~$90–$120 total), prepared by the trekking crew.
Guide and Porter: A licensed, English-speaking guide ($25–$30/day, ~$150–$180) and a porter ($18–$20/day, ~$110–$140, carrying up to 25 kg for two people).
Miscellaneous: Government taxes and service charges.
Analysis of $490 Cost: The $490 price is feasible for a budget camping trek, covering essentials like permits, jeep transport, camping gear, meals, and staff wages, as confirmed by Wilderness Excursion’s pricing. It excludes international flights ($600–$1,200), Nepal visa ($30–$125), travel insurance ($50–$100, covering 4,500 m and helicopter evacuation), personal gear, tips ($30–$50), and extras like hot showers or snacks ($2–$5). Solo trekkers may face higher costs ($600–$700) due to non-shared expenses. The budget supports local Gurung communities through porter services and sustainable camping practices, making it an economical choice for a wilderness adventure.
The 6-7 day itinerary is ideal for the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, as supported by Wilderness Excursion’s 5–7-day camping itinerary, balancing 4–5 days of trekking (6–8 hours daily) and 1–2 days for travel to/from Pokhara. Covering 45-50 km from Tatopani to the base camp and back, it includes key sites like Narchyang Lake, Chhotepa, and Sandhikharka, with sufficient time for altitude acclimatization at 4,190 m.
Shorter 5-day itineraries (e.g., Nepal Trek Hub) rush the ascent, increasing altitude sickness risks, while longer 8–10-day options add side trips (e.g., Poon Hill). The 6-7 day plan suits fit trekkers seeking a concise, adventurous escape in the Annapurna region’s less-trodden north, with Hairy Yak Adventures ensuring a safe, culturally immersive experience.
Panoramic vistas of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993m).
Lush forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic glacier landscapes.
Stunning sunrise views from high-altitude campsites.
Fog-draped Himalayan peaks, especially vibrant in spring and autumn.
Suited for experienced trekkers seeking a remote, challenging adventure.
Not recommended for beginners due to high altitude, rugged terrain, and camping.
Requires strong physical endurance, navigation skills, and comfort with isolation.
Ideal for those with prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Physical Preparation:
Train 6–12 weeks with cardio (running, cycling), strength exercises, and long hikes.
Practice hiking with a 10–15 kg backpack to build endurance for steep trails.
Include stair climbing and downhill walking to prepare for uneven terrain.
Proper Gear:
Use a lightweight 3-season tent and sleeping bag rated for -10°C to -15°C.
Pack waterproof trekking boots, layered clothing, windproof jacket, and trekking poles.
Bring a headlamp with extra batteries, high-SPF sunscreen, and lip balm.
Pack Light:
Carry a 60–80L backpack with essentials only to reduce weight.
No porters available; you carry all gear, so avoid non-essentials.
Pack compact toiletries and minimal clothing for 5–7 days.
Hydration and Altitude:
Drink 4–5 liters of water daily to combat dehydration at high altitudes.
Use water purification tablets or a filter; carry a metal flask to prevent freezing.
Monitor for altitude sickness symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness); descend if severe.
Acclimatization:
Plan rest days at 3,500m to adjust to low oxygen levels.
Ascend gradually to minimize acute mountain sickness (AMS) risk.
Carry Diamox and consult a doctor for altitude medication.
Cash and Connectivity:
Carry ample Nepali Rupees (NPR); no ATMs or banks on the trail.
Expect limited or no mobile network; consider a satellite phone for emergencies.
Inform family of connectivity gaps due to the remote location.
Power Solutions:
Bring a solar charger or power bank; no electricity available on the trail.
Carry extra batteries for headlamps and essential devices.
Conserve power by limiting device use in cold conditions.
Toiletries:
Pack biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and toilet paper.
Include a small towel, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes for hygiene.
Use a compact toiletry bag to save space and weight.
Respect Local Culture:
Greet locals with “Namaste” and dress modestly in villages.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites.
Support local communities by purchasing handmade goods.
Permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, NPR 3,000) and TIMS Card (NPR 2,000) required.
Carry permits for checkpoint verification; arrange through a trekking agency.
Duration: 5–7 days, primarily camping due to no teahouses on the trail.
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) for clear skies.
Difficulty: Strenuous; involves high-altitude camping and landslide-prone areas.
Insurance: Mandatory, covering medical evacuation up to 6,000m.
Guide: Strongly recommended due to unestablished trails and navigation challenges.
Access: Drive from Kathmandu to trailhead; no flights required.
Contact: Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer clear skies, mild temperatures (10–20°C daytime, -5°C nights), and vibrant flora. Monsoon (June–August) brings rain and landslide risks, while winter (December–February) is cold with possible snow at 4,190 m.
It’s moderately challenging, with 6–8 hours of daily hiking, a maximum altitude of 4,190 m, and remote trails requiring camping. Suitable for fit trekkers with 1–2 months of cardio training and some high-altitude experience.
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ($25) and a TIMS card ($8 for groups). Hairy Yak Adventures arranges both, ensuring compliance with local regulations. No Restricted Area Permit is needed, unlike Upper Mustang.
The trek costs $490 per person (minimum group of two), covering guides, porters, camping gear, and transportation.
Pack a lightweight 3-season tent, sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C), waterproof trekking boots, layered clothing, trekking poles, water purification tablets, solar charger, and minimal toiletries. Keep your backpack light (10–15 kg) as no porters are available.