Planning an Annapurna trek starts with one important question: How will you reach the trail? If you are wondering when should I start planning an Annapurna trek, knowing the logistics is step one.
The answer depends on which trek you choose. The Annapurna region has several trailheads, and they are not all in the same place.
Most travelers first go from Kathmandu to Pokhara or Kathmandu to Besisahar.
- Choose Pokhara for Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and Khopra Danda.
- Choose Besisahar for the Annapurna Circuit.
- Travel through Pokhara and Jomsom for the Upper Mustang.
From Pokhara or Besisahar, you can take a local bus, shared jeep, taxi, or private vehicle to your trailhead.
This guide explains each route, travel time, transport choice, and possible cost. It will help you choose a safe and simple way to begin your trek.
Table of Contents
At a Glance: Best Gateway for Each Annapurna Trek
| Your Trek | Main Gateway | Popular Trailheads |
| Annapurna Base Camp | Pokhara | Nayapul, Ghandruk, Siwai, Samrung |
| Ghorepani–Poon Hill | Pokhara | Nayapul, Hile, Tikhedhunga, Ulleri |
| Mardi Himal | Pokhara | Kande, Phedi, Dhampus |
| Annapurna Circuit | Besisahar | Bhulbhule, Jagat, Dharapani, Chame |
| Khopra Danda | Pokhara | Nayapul, Ghandruk, Tatopani |
| Upper Mustang | Pokhara and Jomsom | Jomsom, Kagbeni |
Good to know: Travel times in Nepal are not always exact. Traffic, rain, road work, snow, and landslides can slow down your trip. Understanding what are the main trekking routes in Annapurna helps in planning your daily transit.
Step 1: Choose the Right Annapurna Trailhead
A trailhead is the place where you leave the road and start walking.
The Annapurna region is very large. That is why it has many starting points. The right one depends on your trek, available time, and fitness level.
For Annapurna Base Camp
You may start from:
- Nayapul:Best for a longer and more traditional route. If you want to know the total distance of ABC , this is the standard starting point.
- Birethanti: A common entry point near Nayapul
- Ghandruk: Good for mountain views and village life
- Siwai or Samrung: Helpful when you want to save walking time
- Jhinu Danda area: A shorter choice when the road is open
If you have enough time, begin near Nayapul. If your trip is short, drive closer to Ghandruk, Siwai, or Samrung.
Important: No road goes all the way to Annapurna Base Camp. You must walk the mountain part of the route. Be prepared for the highest altitude and ensure what fitness level is required.
For the Annapurna Circuit
Common starting points include:
- Besisahar
- Bhulbhule
- Jagat
- Dharapani
- Chame
Besisahar is the traditional starting point. However, many trekkers now take a jeep to Jagat or Dharapani. If you are a beginner, check the Annapurna Circuit trek beginner guide.
Starting farther up the road saves time. But it also gives your body less time to adjust to the height..
For Poon Hill
Popular starting points are:
- Nayapul
- Birethanti
- Hile
- Tikhedhunga
- Ulleri
Start from Nayapul if you want more walking, or find the best way to Poon Hill trek. Take a jeep toward Hile or Ulleri if you have fewer days.
For Mardi Himal
The easiest starting points are:
- Kande
- Phedi
- Dhampus
- Landruk
Kande and Phedi are close to Pokhara. Many trekkers finish the route at Siding and return to Pokhara by jeep.
Step 2: Travel From Kathmandu to Pokhara or Besisahar
You have four main transport choices:
- Tourist bus
- Local bus or microbus
- Private car or jeep
- Domestic flight
Here is a quick comparison:
| Transport | Cost Level | Comfort | Best For |
| Local bus | Low | Basic | Very small budgets |
| Tourist bus | Low to medium | Good | Most travelers |
| Private vehicle | High | Very good | Families and groups |
| Flight to Pokhara | High | Fast | Travelers with little time |
Kathmandu to Pokhara: The Main Annapurna Route
Pokhara is the main gateway for most Annapurna treks. It is the best travel base for:
- Annapurna Base Camp
- Poon Hill
- Mardi Himal
- Khopra Danda
- Jomsom and Upper Mustang
Option 1: Take a Tourist Bus
A tourist bus is the best choice for most travelers. It is affordable and easier to use than a local bus.
Most buses leave Kathmandu early in the morning. The ride normally takes around 7 to 10 hours, but traffic or road work can make it longer.
Tourist buses usually stop for:
- Breakfast or tea
- Lunch
- Toilet breaks
You can choose a standard, deluxe, sofa, or premium bus.
Choose this option if you want:
- A fair ticket price
- A fixed departure time
- Better seats than a local bus
- A simple booking process
Travel Tip: Ask for the exact pickup point. Tourist buses may leave from Sorhakhutte or another area in Kathmandu.
Option 2: Take a Local Bus or Microbus
Local buses are usually cheaper, but they can be crowded. They also stop many times along the way.
A microbus may be faster, but there may be little room for your legs and trekking bag.
This option is best if you:
- Have a small budget
- Carry a small bag
- Do not mind crowds
- Understand how local transport works
Keep your passport, phone, money, and permit papers in your daypack.
Option 3: Book a Private Car or Jeep
A private vehicle gives you more comfort and freedom. The driver can pick you up from your hotel.
You can also stop for food, photos, or toilet breaks.
This option works well for:
- Families
- Couples who want privacy
- Small trekking groups
- Travelers with large bags
- People who want flexible travel
Before booking: Ask if fuel, road fees, parking, and hotel pickup are included in the price.
Option 4: Fly to Pokhara
Flying is the fastest way to reach Pokhara. The flight takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
However, you must also allow time for:
- Traveling to Kathmandu Airport
- Checking in
- Waiting for your flight
- Collecting your bag
- Driving from Pokhara Airport
Flights may be delayed by clouds, rain, or poor views.
Safety Tip: Do not book a tight international flight after your trek. Keep at least one extra day for weather delays.
How to Get From Pokhara to ABC Trailheads
After reaching Pokhara, you will need another vehicle to reach the walking trail.
You can book a bus, taxi, or jeep through:
- Your hotel
- A trekking agency
- A local bus station
- A jeep ticket counter
Pokhara to Nayapul or Birethanti
You can travel by local bus, taxi, shared jeep, or private car.
Choose a local bus for a lower cost. Choose a taxi or private vehicle for more comfort.
Nayapul is a good choice when you want a longer trekking route.
Pokhara to Ghandruk
Buses and jeeps travel toward Ghandruk. Some parts of the road may be rough, dusty, or muddy.
Ghandruk is a good starting point if you want:
- A shorter route
- A beautiful Gurung village
- Close mountain views
- Less walking on lower roads
Always ask where the driver will drop you. “Ghandruk” may mean the village, the bus park, or a road below the village.
Pokhara to Siwai or Samrung
A jeep may take you closer to Siwai or Samrung when the road is open.
Before paying, ask:
- Is the road open today?
- What is the exact drop-off point?
- Is the price for one seat or the full jeep?
- Is luggage included?
- Will I need to change vehicles?
How to Get From Kathmandu to the Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit normally begins through Besisahar.
The basic route is:
Kathmandu → Besisahar → Jagat or Dharapani → Start walking
Kathmandu to Besisahar by Bus
Public buses and minibuses leave Kathmandu in the morning. The road trip may take 7 to 9 hours.
Leave early because traffic can cause long delays.
A bus is best for travelers who want to save money. However, it may be crowded and less comfortable.
Kathmandu to Besisahar by Private Vehicle
A private car or jeep offers:
- Hotel pickup
- More luggage space
- Flexible stops
- A more comfortable ride
- Better value for a group
You can spend the night in Besisahar and continue by jeep the next morning.
Besisahar to Jagat, Dharapani, or Chame
Shared jeeps travel from Besisahar into the mountain area.
The road can be:
- Narrow
- Steep
- Dusty
- Muddy
- Very bumpy
Jagat and Dharapani are common starting points. Reaching Chame may take most of the day.
Altitude Note: Driving too high too fast may make it harder for your body to adjust. A lower starting point is often safer and more enjoyable.If you want to know which route offers the best mountain views on the Annapurna Circuit , starting lower gives you more scenic variety.
Estimated Travel Time
| Route | Usual Planning Time |
| Kathmandu to Pokhara by road | 7–10 hours |
| Kathmandu to Pokhara by flight | 25–30 minutes in the air |
| Kathmandu to Besisahar | 7–9 hours |
| Pokhara to an ABC trailhead | 2–5 hours |
| Besisahar to Dharapani | Most of one day |
| Besisahar to Chame | One long day |
| Pokhara to Jomsom by road | One full day or longer |
These are only planning times. Always allow extra time.
How Much Does Transport Cost?
Transport prices often change. The season, fuel price, road condition, and vehicle type can affect the final cost.
| Route | Transport | General Cost Level |
| Kathmandu to Pokhara | Tourist bus | Low |
| Kathmandu to Pokhara | Private vehicle | High |
| Kathmandu to Pokhara | Flight | High |
| Kathmandu to Besisahar | Public bus | Low |
| Besisahar to trailhead | Shared jeep | Medium |
| Pokhara to trailhead | Taxi or jeep | Medium to high |
Before booking, confirm whether the price is:
- Per person or per vehicle
- One way or return
- With or without luggage
- With or without hotel pickup
Money Tip: Carry Nepalese rupees. Cards may not work in small mountain towns. If you are budgeting, check the overall Annapurna guide cost.
Best Transport for Each Type of Traveler
If You Want to Save Money
Take a tourist bus to Pokhara or a public bus to Besisahar. Use a shared jeep for the final road section.
If You Want More Comfort
Book a private car for the main journey and a private jeep for the mountain road.
If You Have Little Time
Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Arrange your trailhead transfer before you arrive.
If You Are Traveling With a Group
Hire a private jeep or van. Sharing the full cost can make it more affordable.
If You Travel During Monsoon
Use a strong vehicle and keep extra days in your plan. Check for landslides and road closures before leaving.
Final Travel Checklist
Before leaving Kathmandu, make sure you have completed these steps:
- Choose your Annapurna trek
- Find the correct trailhead
- Choose Pokhara or Besisahar as your gateway
- Compare bus, flight, and private transport
- Check the weather and road conditions
- Confirm your trekking permits
- Carry enough Nepalese cash
- Save your tickets on your phone
- Add at least one extra travel day
- Book early during busy trekking seasons
Final Answer
For most Annapurna treks, the easiest plan is to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, take a bus, taxi, or jeep to your trailhead. For the Annapurna Circuit, travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar. You can then take a shared jeep to Jagat, Dharapani, or another suitable starting point.
Choose a bus if you want to save money. Choose a private vehicle for comfort. Fly to Pokhara if time is more important than cost. Most importantly, check the road, weather, permits, and final drop-off point before you leave. This will help you start your Annapurna trek safely and with less stress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to get from Kathmandu to Annapurna?
For most Annapurna treks, take a tourist bus or flight to Pokhara. Then use a taxi, bus, or jeep to reach the trail. For the Annapurna Circuit, travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar instead.
Is there a direct bus from Kathmandu to an Annapurna trailhead?
Some services may go to Besisahar or farther into the circuit. However, most travelers change vehicles in Pokhara or Besisahar. Check the final stop carefully before buying a ticket.
How long does it take to reach the Annapurna region?
Plan one full day to reach Pokhara or Besisahar by road. You may need another half or full day to reach a mountain trailhead.
Can I fly straight to an Annapurna trailhead?
No regular flight lands at most trailheads. You can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and continue by road. For Jomsom and Upper Mustang, you may also fly from Pokhara to Jomsom.
Does the Annapurna Circuit start in Pokhara?
Not usually. Besisahar is the traditional gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. Pokhara is the main gateway for Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and Khopra Danda.
Can a jeep take me to Annapurna Base Camp?
No. A jeep can only take you to a lower road point. You must walk the rest of the way to the base camp.
Should I book transport early?
Yes, if you travel in spring or autumn. You should also book early during Nepalese festivals and public holidays. Local shared jeeps are often booked after you arrive. Ask your hotel or lodge for help.
Are the roads safe?
Road conditions are not the same everywhere. Some roads are paved, while others are narrow, steep, and rough. Choose a trusted driver. Avoid traveling on difficult mountain roads at night.
How much luggage can I bring?
Bus limits are often flexible, but space may be tight. Airlines have set weight limits. Pack light. A smaller bag is easier to carry, load, and protect.
Do I need a trekking agency?
You can arrange many routes on your own. A good agency can still help with permits, guides, transport, weather problems, and route changes.