6-day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek with Helicopter Out 

Accommodation on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek with a helicopter return is simple, comfortable, and easy to find along the trail. You’ll be staying in teahouses or lodges, which are small, family-run guesthouses offering basic rooms with twin beds, warm blankets, and shared bathrooms.

Most teahouses also have a common dining area where trekkers gather to eat, relax, and warm up by the fire in the evenings. The food is freshly cooked and includes local Nepali meals like dal bhat, as well as simple international dishes like noodles, pasta, and fried rice. While the facilities are basic, the hospitality is warm and welcoming. As you go higher, the accommodation gets simpler, but it’s always cozy enough for a good night’s rest before continuing your trek.

During the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek with a helicopter return, you’ll find plenty of food options at teahouses and lodges along the trail. Meals are freshly prepared and usually include Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), as well as simple international foods like noodles, pasta, soups, fried rice, pancakes, and eggs. The food is warm, filling, and gives you the energy needed for trekking.

Drinking water is available at all stops, but it’s important to drink safe water. You can buy bottled water in some places, but it’s better to carry a refillable bottle and use water purification tablets or filters to save money and reduce plastic waste. Many teahouses also offer boiled drinking water for a small fee. Staying well-fed and hydrated is key to enjoying the trek and staying healthy, especially at higher altitudes.

Electricity and internet services are available at most teahouses along the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, but they are basic and may not always be reliable. You can charge your phone, camera, or other devices in the lodges, though some places may charge a small fee, especially at higher altitudes. Charging is usually done in the dining area, and it’s a good idea to bring a power bank just in case.

Wi-Fi is available in many teahouses for a small fee, but the connection can be slow or unstable, especially as you get closer to base camp. Some trekkers prefer to use a local SIM card (like Ncell or NTC) with a data pack, which works in some parts of the trail. However, don’t expect strong or constant internet everywhere. It’s best to enjoy the natural beauty and use the internet only when needed.

Altitude sickness can occur on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek as you reach heights over 4,000 meters. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To prevent it, walk at a steady pace, stay hydrated, rest well, and avoid alcohol. The trek allows gradual altitude gain, which helps your body adjust.

If symptoms get worse, it’s best to stop, rest, or descend. Since the trek ends with a helicopter flight, it offers a quick way down if needed for safety. It’s also helpful to carry basic medicines like paracetamol or consult your doctor about altitude pills before the trek. Listening to your body and not rushing is key to staying safe and enjoying the experience.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek with a helicopter return can be done in a small group, a large group, or even solo travelling with a guide. The maximum group size ranges from 2 to 12 people, which is a good size for the people to stay organized and get personal attention from the guide.

The smaller groups can be more flexible and can move at a comfortable pace, while larger groups can be more social, interactive, and fun. It does not matter what the size of the group is if you have a licensed guide and porter who can make the trek easier, safer, and more enjoyable. You can also join another group if you are traveling alone and want to meet and interact with other trekkers throughout your journey.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek with a helicopter return is considered moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for most people with basic fitness and some hiking experience. You’ll walk for about 4 to 6 hours a day on well-marked trails, with some uphill and downhill sections. The trek doesn’t require any climbing skills, but you should be prepared for changing weather and higher altitudes. Taking it slow, resting when needed, and staying hydrated will help you enjoy the journey. Since the return is by helicopter, you avoid the long descent, making the trek a bit easier overall.

For the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek with a helicopter return, travel insurance is crucial. It should include emergency helicopter evacuation in the case of illness, accident, or altitude sickness, as well as high-altitude trekking (above 4,000 meters).

Medical care can be expensive to execute, especially when a helicopter rescue is required. You should make your purchase of travel insurance before visiting Nepal, which is a smart idea. You need to be sure to include trekking and altitude coverage directly. Throughout the hike, keep a copy of your insurance and emergency contact information with you.

When done with a certified guide and porter, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trip with a helicopter return is often safe and well-managed. There are several teahouses and villages along the well-traveled and well-marked trail, so you’re rarely by yourself. The hiking community is encouraging, and the majority of the people are friendly and helpful.

To keep safe, heed your guide’s instructions, be cautious when walking on slippery terrain, and take your time to prevent altitude issues or accidents. It’s a good idea to carry a copy of your passport and travel insurance, as well as to keep your valuables safe.

A few permits are needed for the 6-day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek with a helicopter return to help preserve the natural beauty of the region, support local communities, and ensure a safe trekking experience. These permits help manage tourism and protect the peaceful environment of the Annapurna region. The permits you’ll need for this trek are listed below:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the entire ABC trekking route. The fee helps with conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and protecting the local culture, wildlife, and environment.

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: This card is used to register trekkers and track visitors in the region. It helps local authorities manage trekking routes and provide safety support. It’s important for your security and can assist in case of any emergencies during the trek.

General

• Original passport and a few passport-size photos for permit registration
• Required permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) & TIMS card
• Warm sleeping bag for cold nights (rentable in Kathmandu or Pokhara)
• Enough cash in Nepali rupees, as there are no ATMs on the trail
• Duffel bag (your porter will carry this)
• A light daypack for your water, snacks, and personal items

Upper Body

• UV-protection sunglasses for strong mountain sun
• A sun cap for daytime and a warm hat for cold mornings
• Neck gaiter or buff to protect from dust and wind
  

Torso

• 2 quick-drying trekking shirts (long or short sleeve)
• A fleece or wool layer to keep you warm in the evenings
• A puffy jacket (down or synthetic) for higher altitudes
• A rain jacket or windbreaker in case of bad weather
  

Lower Body

• 2 pairs of comfortable hiking trousers
• 1 pair of thermal leggings for cold nights or mornings
• Rain pants to wear over your trekking pants when needed
• Light pajama pants or track pants for sleeping and relaxing
  

Hands

• Thin gloves for mild cold
• Warm gloves (preferably waterproof) for colder days near base camp

Footwear

• 3–4 pairs of warm, breathable trekking socks
• A pair of strong, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
• Slip-on shoes or Crocs for use around the lodge

Undergarments

• 4–5 pairs of quick-dry underwear
• Sports bra or comfortable support (if needed)
• Optional: extra base-layer bottoms for layering at night

Medication and First Aid

• Altitude tablets (consult your doctor for Diamox)
• High SPF sunscreen and lip balm to avoid sunburn
• Basic painkillers and tablets for cold, upset stomach, or motion sickness
• Plasters/band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and blister tape
• Any personal or prescription medicine you may need

Other Essentials

• Hand sanitizer and tissue packs
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (2L recommended) + water purifier
• Toiletries: small toothpaste, brush, biodegradable soap, wet wipes
• Torch or headlamp with spare batteries
• Trekking poles (helpful for steep or uneven trails)
• Power bank for charging electronics
• Waterproof pouch or dry bag to keep electronics and clothes dry

Optional

• Lightweight snacks: granola bars, dried fruit, nuts
• A small journal or notebook
• Eye mask and earplugs for better sleep in teahouses
• Small padlock for your room or backpack
• A bit of tape or string for emergency fixes

1. How to Verify Your Reservation

We require a 30% deposit of the entire trip cost to reserve your spot. You can pay the remaining sum when you get to Pokhara or Kathmandu. If you’d like, you can also decide to pay the entire amount up advance.

To verify your reservation, we will require:

• Your payment for the deposit
• Your passport in a clear picture or scan
• Basic details like travel insurance info and an emergency contact

2. How to Make Payments

We provide a number of simple payment methods:

Online Payment: Use our website to safely make a payment.

Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and other major credit cards are accepted (a 4% bank fee is applied).

Bank Transfer: Transfer funds straight to our account (ask your bank about any fees).

Cash: If you’re in Kathmandu or Pokhara, you can also pay in person with cash (NPR or USD).

3. Final Payment

Before the expedition begins, the remaining 70% of your trip expenses must be paid. When you get there, you can pay with cash, a card, or a bank transfer.

4. Changing Your Dates

Please give us at least 30 days’ notice if you must alter your travel schedule. Depending on availability, we’ll try our best to modify your vacation. If reservations for hotels or helicopters need to be amended, there can be additional fees.

5. Travel Insurance is Required

Every hiker needs to have current travel insurance that covers medical care, trip cancellations, emergency helicopter evacuation, and high-altitude trekking.

6. Last-Minute Booking

Although reservations can be made up to 48 hours prior to departure, space may be restricted, particularly during busy times (such as spring and fall). To guarantee helicopter availability and lodging capacity, we advise making reservations as soon as possible. 

1. Cancellation by the Guest

• Full refund (30 days or more before to departure; no bank or transaction fees applied).
• 30% of the entire trip cost will be reimbursed between 10 and 29 days before to departure.
• 50% of the entire trip fee will be refunded five to nine days before to departure.
• Less than five days prior to departure: You can postpone your trip without incurring additional fees, but there won’t be a refund.
• Following the start of the walk, there will be no reimbursement for services not used because of illness, injury, or early return.

2. Cancellation by the Company

If unexpected events, such as natural disasters or political upheaval, force us to postpone the trek:

• A complete refund will be given to you.
• Your vacation can be rescheduled at no additional cost to another available date.

3. Weather Delays or Flight Cancellations

At no additional cost, we will try our best to modify your schedule or reschedule the hike.After subtracting the amount you have already paid for permits, transportation, and lodging, you will receive a 30% refund if you choose to cancel because of delays.

4. No-Show Policy

No credit will be given if a visitor suddenly fails to arrive on the day of departure.

5. Travel Insurance Requirement

We strongly advise you to get full travel protection that includes insurance for evacuation, medical emergencies, high-altitude treks, and trip cancellations.