The 14 EightThousanders

Annapurna

Annapurna I is the tenth highest mountain in the world at 8,091 m (26,545 ft) above sea level and is well known for the difficulty and danger involved in its ascent.

Country

Nepal

Peak name

Mt. Annapurna I

Duration

41 days

Route

North Face

Range

10

Coordinates

28°35'45"N 83°49'15"E

Weather reports

Live weather report

Range

Annapurna Range

Trip summary

Annapurna I, Commonly known as Annapurna, it is the tenth highest mountain in the world at an altitude of 8,091 m (26,545 ft) above sea level. It is located in the Himalayas of north-central Nepal and is part of the Annapurna Massif, a mountain range that includes Annapurna I as the only 8,000-meter peak and several other peaks over 7,000 m (22,966 ft). Annapurna I is considered one of the most challenging and dangerous mountains to climb due to its steep slopes, exposed routes, and frequent avalanches and landslides along the climbing route. It rises east of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which separates it from the Dhaulagiri Massif, 34 km to the west. The gorge between them is considered the deepest on Earth. In Sanskrit, Annapurna means “full of food” and is commonly associated with the Goddess of Harvests and the Goddess of Fertility.

Annapurna I was first climbed by a French expedition in 1950. The expedition initially intended to climb Dhaulagiri, but was forced to turn back due to difficult conditions and a lack of resources. They then turned their attention to Annapurna. After weeks of struggle, Maurice Herzog (also the expedition leader) and Louis Lachenal reached the summit on June 3, 1950. It was the first 8,000-meter peak to be successfully climbed, and its summit was the highest ascent on Earth for three years, until Everest was climbed.

An expedition to Annapurna I requires excellent physical condition, technical climbing skills, and experience in high-altitude mountaineering. Proper acclimatization to the altitude, adequate equipment, and preparation for the risks of avalanches, landslides, and other hazards are also essential. Climbing a mountain like Annapurna I can also be a way to experience the beauty and majesty of western Nepal in a profound and intense way. The views from the summit are said to be breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mansiri mountain ranges.

The Seven Summit Treks Annapurna I expedition will begin in mid-March from Kathmandu. You will have a couple of days to prepare your equipment and paperwork. Afterward, you will take a flight or vehicle to Pokhara and continue your trek or helicopter flight from Dana to base camp, depending on the itinerary. We will set up four camps and rotate frequently between them for optimal acclimatization. Base camp is typically located at 4190 m/13,747 ft, Camp I at 5150 m/16,896 ft, Camp II at 5700 m/18,700 ft, Camp III at 6500 m/21,325 ft, Camp IV at 7400 m/24,278 ft, and the summit at 8091 m/26,545 ft. Annapurna is one of the two most dangerous mountains in the world to climb (along with K2), with a terrifying summit fatality rate.

WHY CLIMB MOUNT ANNAPURNA I WITH SEVEN SUMMIT TREKS?

  • Highly qualified, professional, friendly, and experienced climbing team: Sherpa guides, kitchen staff, and base camp manager.
  • Well-equipped expedition with the best-in-class climbing gear and logistical support for base camp and higher camps.
  • Safety is our top priority, and we take all measures to minimize risks and ensure the well-being of our clients.
  • We offer a variety of itineraries tailored to different abilities and interests, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs.
  • Reliable weather forecasts verified from multiple international sources and communication networks during the expedition.
  • Easy helicopter rental service when needed (additional charge applies).
  • 1 climbing Sherpa per member (1 Member: 1 Sherpa).

“We look forward to serving you and sharing our experience with you”

More Information

Base Camp (4,190 m/13,747 ft)

Fly to Pokhara and drive to Dana. On a charter helicopter flight, you will arrive at Annapurna Base Camp (4,190 m). Seven Summit boasts the best base camp. You will spend approximately one month there. Each member will have an individual tent, and there are also tents with a dining area, kitchen, showers, communication facilities, and toilets. Before ascending, we hold a large ceromantic puja at base camp to wish for good luck and a safe climb. It serves as a base for the rest of the climb and is where climbers can rest, acclimatize, and prepare for the next phase. Seven Summits offers frequent helicopter charter flights to base camp, and each flight includes plenty of fresh vegetables and meat, drinks, and sometimes bread.

Camp I (5,150 m/16,896 ft)

Once you arrive at ABC, your personal climbing sherpa or team leader will review basic and advanced training at base camp. You will then ascend to Camp I. For better acclimatization, once the sherpa team has fixed the rope, you will ascend to Camp I, which is at an altitude of 5,150 m. On this climbing section, you will encounter mixed terrain with a few crevasses and ice on the glacier section. This will take you 4 to 5 hours of climbing. We will rotate frequently at Camp I and back to base camp.

Camp II (5,700 m/18,700 ft)

The climb from Camp I to Camp II is an intermediate ice section with some mixed climbing sections. In this section, some rock and glacier areas, as well as the central part of the glacier, are somewhat technical, but there will be fixed ropes throughout. The hike will take 4 to 5 hours.

Camp III (6,500 m/21,325 ft)

The climb from Camp II to Camp III is a fairly long distance. It will only take 5 to 6 hours. It’s a long stretch, but easier. The fixed-rope climbing sherpa will be present for a safe climb.

Camp IV (7,400 m/24,278 ft)

This is the last camp before the summit and is usually located at around 7,400 meters altitude. The ascent to Camp IV is short, but there are crevasses, so caution is advised when ascending to Camp IV due to the altitude and low oxygen levels. From here, climbers take the final step towards the summit.

Summit (8,091 m/24,278 ft)

The most important day is summit day. It is the main goal of every climber. It is a day they dream of. That is why most climbers begin their ascent to the summit at dusk and hike for about 7 or 8 hours, reaching the top between 8 and 10 a.m. The summit of Annapurna is breathtaking. You will be captivated by the beautiful view of different 8,000-meter peaks. That same day, after taking some photos, you will descend to Camp III or Camp II, which will take about 5 or 6 hours. Descending from the summit is also a challenging part of this expedition, so safety on the descent is also a key aspect of summit day. Seven Summit Treks will have a Sherpa climber and a team member accompanying them from Camp IV to summit day and back to Base Camp. The SST guide will carry an oxygen bottle for the team members and themselves. For a safe summit of Annapurna, SST will always have guidelines for the best weather forecast, communication, and support from the Base Camp leader. Fixing ropes to the summit is the primary task of our Sherpa climber, so we greatly admire our Sherpa for fixing ropes, opening trails, and making every effort to ensure the group reaches the summit of Mount Annapurna.

Maximum elevation:

8.091 m / 26.545 ft

Walking per day:

5-6 hours

Accommodation:

Hotel + Lodge + Tent

Best season:

Spring

Group size:

2 - 15 PEOPLE

Itinerary

Expedition Log

ANNAPURNA I 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel by our team.
Hotel
Rest day in the city, briefing session, and preparation of all expedition equipment.
B / D Hotel
Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and transfer to the designated hotel.
B / L / D Hotel
Drive from Pokhara to the village of Dana.
B / L / D Lodge
Helicopter flight from Dana directly to the Annapurna I Base Camp and start of the camping period.
B / L / D Tent
Acclimatization and logistics period: [Base Camp – Rotation (Camp I and Camp II) – Base Camp].
Full Board Tent
Final summit window: [Base Camp – Annapurna I Summit – Base Camp].
Full Board Summit
*Helicopter return flight from Annapurna I Base Camp to Dana (1,440 m) group service.
B / L / D Lodge
Drive from Dana to Pokhara and return flight to Kathmandu. Transfer to the hotel.
B / L Hotel
Free day for rest, shopping, or sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Breakfast Hotel
Transfer to the International Airport for your final departure.
Breakfast

Included

Cost Includes

Accommodation & Welcome

  • Kathmandu: 4 nights in a 4-star hotel, single room with breakfast.
  • Pokhara: 2 nights in a 3-star hotel, shared room with breakfast.
  • Welcome Dinner: Dinner at a standard tourist restaurant with office staff.
  • Customs Clearance: Assistance at Nepal Customs (clearance fees may apply).
  • Travel Bag: Official Seven Summit Treks travel bag and route map.

Permits & Official Fees

  • Annapurna I Permit: Expedition and Government of Nepal permit to climb Annapurna I.
  • Protected Areas: Entry permits and fees for Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP).
  • Government Liaison Officer: 1 officer included (equipment, salary, and accommodation).
  • Waste Management: Fees for human waste disposal and garbage deposits.
  • Certificate: Official climbing certificate issued by MoCTCA upon success.

Transportation & Logistics

  • Transfers: Airport – Hotel – Airport in private vehicle.
  • Domestic Flight: Kathmandu – Pokhara and Pokhara – Kathmandu (round trip).
  • Ground Transport: Jeep transfer Pokhara – Dana – Pokhara.
  • Helicopter: Dana – Annapurna Base Camp – Dana (schedule-based for groups).
  • Equipment Transport: Kathmandu – Dana (truck) and Dana – Base Camp (helicopter/mules/porters).
  • Member Luggage: Up to 60 kg of personal luggage during the trek (porters or mules).

Food & Base Camp

  • Full Board: 3 meals daily (including tea & coffee) in hotels, lodges, and Base Camp.
  • Fresh Supplies: Vegetables, fresh meat, fruits, and juices regularly delivered by helicopter.
  • Base Camp Infrastructure: Individual tent per member with foam mattress and pillow.
  • Common Areas: Dining tents (with heater), kitchen, communication, bathroom, and shower. Fully equipped with tables, chairs, and kitchenware.
  • Power & Weather: Solar panel and generator for device charging. Weather reports from Meteotest (Switzerland).

Mountain Support & Staff

  • Personal Sherpa: 1 licensed, experienced Sherpa per member (1:1) during the entire ascent and rotations.
  • Assistance: Sherpa helps carry personal gear to high camps.
  • Route Fixing: Experienced Sherpa team fixes ropes to the summit (no extra charge).
  • Base Camp Staff: Professional chef and assistants. Includes salaries, equipment, food, clothing, and insurance for all Nepalese staff.
  • Training: Technical training at Base Camp (oxygen, ice walls, ladders) by a professional guide.

Oxygen & Altitude

  • Oxygen Bottles: 3 bottles (4L) per member and 1 bottle per Sherpa.
  • Oxygen System: 1 set of "Summit" mask and regulator per person (must be returned).
  • High-Altitude Logistics: Shared tents (2:1), fuel, pots, and high-altitude food at C1, C2, C3, and C4.
  • Backup: Emergency oxygen cylinder, mask, and regulator available (extra charge applies).

Communication & Safety

  • Safety: Satellite phone (emergencies) and Walkie-Talkie radios with permits.
  • Internet: Service available at Base Camp (additional payment required).
  • Medical: Complete medical kit for members and staff.

Not Included

Cost Excludes

International Flights

Airfare to and from Kathmandu.

Nepal Visa

$125 USD for 90 days.

City Meals

Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara (or in case of early return).

Extra Nights

Additional accommodation due to itinerary or flight changes.

Travel Insurance

Mandatory: Medical coverage, rescue, evacuation, and repatriation.

Personal Expenses

Internet outside Base Camp, laundry, hot showers, and alcoholic drinks.

Personal Gear

Technical clothing, personal climbing equipment, and toiletries.

Special Permits

Fees for drones or professional filming.

Summit Bonus

Climbing Sherpa bonus: Minimum $1,500 USD.

Tips

Minimum $400 USD for Base Camp staff.

Dates

CONFIRMED DATES 2027
DURATION
STATUS
GROUP
ACTION
18 MAR – 20 APR 2027
34 DAYS
Applications Open
15 PAX Maximum Group

Map

Reviews

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *