Pokhara to ABC Trek Starting Point

Pokhara to ABC Trek Starting Point: Complete Vehicle Guide

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek — commonly known as the ABC Trek — is Nepal’s most beloved and most accessible high-altitude trekking experience. Starting in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara and climbing through lush rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages, and stunning alpine terrain to the spectacular glacial amphitheatre of Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters, it is a journey that transforms everyone who completes it.

Before the trek begins, every trekker needs to answer one practical yet important question: how do I get from Pokhara to the starting point of the ABC trek? The answer depends on which trailhead you choose, your group size, your budget, and how much time you want to spend on the road versus on the trail.

This 2026 guide by Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd covers every aspect of the Pokhara to ABC trek starting-point vehicle journey—all trailhead options, vehicle types, costs, departure logistics, and expert tips to ensure your ABC trek adventure starts perfectly from the first kilometre.

About the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the world’s great Himalayan adventures. The trail leads into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary — a magnificent glacial basin encircled by thirteen peaks above 6,000 meters, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), the tenth highest mountain in the world, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Gangapurna (7,455 m).

The trek combines outstanding natural beauty with rich cultural experiences in Gurung and Magar villages. It suits beginners and experienced trekkers alike, and with proper planning, you can complete it in as few as 7 days from Pokhara.

All ABC Trek Starting Points from Pokhara

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek has five main starting points, each offering a different entry into the trail system. Nepal Vehicle Hiring provides vehicle services to all of these trailheads. The right choice depends on your itinerary, how many trekking days you have, and whether you want to include or skip certain trail sections.

Starting Point 1: Pokhara to Nayapul

Nayapul is the most popular and most commonly used starting point for the ABC Trek. Located about 42 kilometres northwest of Pokhara at an altitude of 1,070 meters, Nayapul is a small roadside village at the confluence of the Bhurungdi and Modi rivers. Almost every standard ABC trek itinerary begins from Nayapul.

Why Trekkers Choose Nayapul

• The most accessible trailhead — the easiest road to reach by any vehicle type
• Starting point for both the classic ABC Trek route and the Ghorepani Poon Hill route
• ACAP permit checkpoint at nearby Birethanti — required for all trekkers
• Good first-day trekking options: Birethanti, Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, or Ghandruk
• The trek from Nayapul to ABC and back is approximately 76 km total

Road and Vehicle Details

The Pokhara-Nayapul route follows the Pokhara-Baglung Highway through Phedi, Naudanda, and Kande. The road is mostly paved and in good condition for the majority of the route. A private jeep, van, or car handles this route comfortably.

Starting Point 2: Pokhara to Ghandruk

Ghandruk is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and famous Gurung villages, perched at 1,940 meters in the hills above the Modi Khola valley, with direct views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Driving to Ghandruk rather than trekking from Nayapul saves a full day of walking and places you immediately in a rich cultural environment at altitude.

Why Trekkers Choose Ghandruk as Starting Point

• Saves 1 to 1.5 days of walking compared to starting from Nayapul
• Ideal for trekkers with limited time who want to maximise trail time at altitude
• Ghandruk is itself one of the finest Gurung cultural villages in the Annapurna region
• Direct mountain views from the village from the very first morning
• From Ghandruk, the trail climbs directly to Chhomrong and then to the Annapurna Sanctuary

Road Conditions: Pokhara to Ghandruk

The road from Pokhara to Ghandruk goes via Nayapul, then leaves the main highway for a progressively rougher jeep track that climbs steeply into the hills. The road beyond Syauli Bazaar to Ghandruk is rough, unpaved in sections, and requires a 4WD jeep. A standard car is not recommended beyond Nayapul for the Ghandruk road.

Starting Point 3: Pokhara to Jhinu Danda

Jhinu Danda (sometimes called Jhinu) sits at about 1,760 meters. It is more commonly used as a return point after the ABC Trek and is particularly famous for its natural hot springs beside the Modi River. However, some trekkers also choose Jhinu Danda as a starting point, from where the trail climbs steeply to Chhomrong before heading toward the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Why Some Trekkers Start or End at Jhinu Danda

• Famous for the natural Jhinu hot springs — the perfect reward after the ABC Trek
• Return point for most 7-day ABC trek itineraries — vehicle pickup arranged here
• Starting from Jhinu, the route cuts directly to Chhomrong, saving 1 day compared with starting from Nayapul.
• The Jhinu suspension bridge crossing is a memorable highlight of the route
• Vehicle pickup at the bridge means no extra hiking at the end of the trek

Starting Point 4: Pokhara to Kimche

Kimche is a small village at about 1,640 meters, located on the hillside trail between Nayapul and Ghandruk. Driving to Kimche rather than Nayapul saves approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of walking time, since the road bypasses the lower valley. From Kimche, it is a manageable 1-hour climb to Ghandruk village. The road to Kimche is rough, and a 4WD jeep is required.

Starting Point 5: Pokhara to Siwai / Syauli Bazaar

Siwai (also spelt Samrung or Syauli Bazaar) is another alternative starting and finishing point used by some ABC trekkers. It sits at about 1,100 meters in the Modi Khola valley. Some trekking agencies use Siwai as the return vehicle pickup point rather than Nayapul, as it is accessible by jeepJeep avoids jeep. This is the full trail back to Nayapul.

Vehicle Options: Pokhara to ABC Trek Starting Points 2026

Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd offers three main types of private vehicles for transfers from Pokhara to the ABC trek starting point. Here is a complete comparison:

Private cars (2WD sedans) are not suitable beyond Nayapul because the jeep track to Ghandruk, Kimche, Jhinu Danda, and Siwai is rough and unpaved. A 4WD jeep is mandatory for all trailheads beyond Nayapul.

Which Starting Point is Right for You?

Why a Private Jeep is the Best Choice for ABC Trek Transport

For most trekkers heading to the ABC Trek starting points, a private 4WD jeep from Nepal Vehicle Hiring is the best choice. Here is why:

• Hotel pickup from Pokhara Lakeside or anywhere in Pokhara — no early morning taxi to a bus station
• 4WD capability handles the rough jeep tracks to Ghandruk, Kimche, Jhinu Danda, and Siwai with ease
• Comfortable, spacious interior for 4 to 6 passengers with full trekking bags and gear
• Flexible departure time — depart when you are ready, not according to a bus schedule
• Freedom to stop for photos, mountain views, and tea breaks along the scenic Pokhara-Baglung Highway
• Driver’s local knowledge of road conditions, checkpoints, and trailhead drop-off points
• Return pickup service arranged in advance — your driver meets you at Nayapul, Jhinu Danda, or Siwai after your trek
• When the cost is split among a group of 4 to 6 trekkers, a private jeep often works out very affordably per person

Toyota Hiace Van for ABC Trek Groups

For larger trekking groups of 7 to 10 people, the Toyota Hiace van is the most practical and economical private vehicle for the transfer from Pokhara to Nayapul. While the Hiace is not suitable for the rough roads beyond Nayapul, it is perfect for the well-paved Pokhara-to-Nayapul section, offering air-conditioned comfort for all group members.

Departure Tips from Pokhara to the ABC Trek Starting Point

What Time to Depart from Pokhara

The recommended departure time from Pokhara for the ABC trek starting point transfer is between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM. This gets you to Nayapul between 9:00 and 10:00 AM, giving you a full day of trekking to Ghandruk, or at least Ulleri, on the first day.

For Ghandruk departures, aim to leave Pokhara by 7:00 AM at the latest to arrive with enough daylight for a walk around and a comfortable first evening.

Where Vehicles Depart from in Pokhara

With a private vehicle from Nepal Vehicle Hiring, a jeep picks you up directly from your hotel or guesthouse in Pokhara Lakeside. You don’t need to travel to a bus station or public terminal. Confirm your hotel address when booking, and your driver will arrive at the agreed time.

For shared jeeps to Nayapul, the departure point is Baglung Bus Park in Pokhara, about a 15- to 20-minute taxi ride from Pokhara Lakeside.

Permit Checkpoint at Birethanti

All trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area must show a valid ACAP permit and TIMS card at the Birethanti checkpoint, a short walk from Nayapul. You must obtain these permits before you depart from Pokhara or Kathmandu. The Nepal Tourism Board office in Pokhara Lakeside is the most convenient place to obtain both permits on the morning of your departure.

ACAP Permit fee: NPR 3,000 for foreign trekkers. TIMS Card fee: NPR 2,000 for foreign trekkers. Both are required without exception.

Return Transport: ABC Trek End Point Back to Pokhara

Most ABC Trek itineraries end at a different point than where they began. The most common return scenarios and vehicle arrangements are:

Road Trip Highlights: Pokhara to Nayapul

The drive from Pokhara to Nayapul along the Pokhara-Baglung Highway is scenic and enjoyable. Here are the key highlights you will see along the way:

Phedi and the Annapurna Foothills

Shortly after leaving Pokhara, the road passes through Phedi, where the Annapurna foothills begin to rise dramatically. The Annapurna Range becomes increasingly visible behind the ridgelines as the highway climbs out of the Pokhara valley.

Naudanda Ridge Viewpoint

Naudanda offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Pokhara valley and Phewa Lake far below, with the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks towering above. Many drivers stop here for a brief photo opportunity and a tea break at the ridgeline tea houses.

Kande Junction

Kande is the junction where the Poon Hill trekking trail departs from the road. If your ABC trek itinerary includes Poon Hill, your driver will point out where the trail begins. It is also a popular short hike from this road junction.

Birethanti Village

Just past Nayapul is the charming village of Birethanti at the confluence of the Bhurungdi Khola and Modi Khola rivers. The ACAP permit checkpoint is located here. The stone-paved village lanes, riverside teahouses, and beautiful river views make Birethanti one of the most welcoming entry points to Nepal’s trekking regions.

Permits Required for the ABC Trek 

Note: Both permits are mandatory and must be shown at the Birethanti checkpoint. Both are available at the Nepal Tourism Board office on Pokhara Lakeside, which is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Obtain them on the morning of your departure or the day before.

Best Time to Travel from Pokhara to the ABC Trek Starting Point

Autumn (September to November) – Best Season

Autumn is the best season for the ABC Trek and the best time to drive from Pokhara to Nayapul/Ghandruk. Post-monsoon skies are clear, roads are in excellent condition, and the mountain views from the highway are spectacular. October and November offer the very best clarity for mountain panoramas. This is peak trekking season — book your vehicle well in advance.

Spring (March to May) – Excellent

Spring is the second peak trekking season. Rhododendron forests along the trail are in full glorious bloom. The highway drive passes through spectacularly colourful hillsides in March and April. Mountain views are generally excellent, and the weather is stable. May can see some pre-monsoon haze, but it remains a good trekking month.

Winter (December to February) – Good

Winter trekking on the ABC route is possible and rewarding. The Pokhara to Nayapul road is open year-round. Trail conditions above Chhomrong can involve snow, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp and ABC see heavy snowfall. A warm sleeping bag and layered clothing are essential. Mountain views can be outstanding in the crisp winter air.

Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended

The ABC trail and the approach roads experience heavy monsoon rainfall. Landslides can affect the Pokhara-Nayapul highway and the jeep tracks to Ghandruk and Kimche. The trail itself becomes slippery and leech-infested above Chhomrong. Travel is not recommended during the core monsoon months.

What to Pack for the Pokhara to ABC Starting Point Journey

• Trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS) – obtain before departure from Pokhara
• Small daypack – keep essentials accessible in the vehicle; main trekking bag goes in the boot
• Water bottle – refill at teahouses in Birethanti at the start of the trek
• Light layer or fleece – mornings can be cool on the drive to Nayapul, even in spring and autumn
• Camera – the Naudanda ridge viewpoint and Birethanti river views are excellent photo opportunities
• Nepali cash – for permits (if not obtained already), lunch at Birethanti, and first trail supplies
• Motion sickness tablet if needed – the road to Ghandruk is winding and bumpy
• Trekking poles,s if using them, are easier to have accessible from the start of the trail

Expert Tips for Pokhara to ABC Trek Starting Point Transport

• Book your private vehicle at least 1 day before your trek departure; during October and November, book 3 to 5 days ahead.d
• Collect your ACAP permit and TIMS card at Pokhara Lakeside on the morning of departure or the previous afternoon — do not leave them at the checkpoint. nt
• If driving to Ghandruk, confirm road conditio  with your Nepal Vehicle Hiring driver that day, as heavy rain can make the track temporarily impassable.
• For groups of 4 or more, a private jeep split between the group is the best value option for both comfort and cost.t
• Always pre-book your return vehicle before you start the trek — don’t expect to find one at the Jhinu Danda bridge or in Siwai without prior arrangement.
• Ask your driver to stop at Naudanda ridge viewpoint for 10 minutes — the panorama of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range from here is superb. erb
• If your trek starts from Ghandruk, bring extra cash — there are no ATMs on the ABC trail after Pokhara.
• Confirm your trek endpoint and return pickup location with your guide and Nepal Vehicle Hiring driver before you leave Pokhara.
• Wear or carry your lightest trekking layer in the vehicle — you will want to start walking immediately upon arrival at the trailhead.d

How to Book Pokhara to ABC Trek Starting Point Vehicle

Booking your Pokhara to ABC trek trailhead vehicle with Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd is simple:

• Step 1: Contact us via phone, WhatsApp, or at vehiclehiringnepal.com
• Step 2: Tell us your travel date, departure trailhead (Nayapul / Ghandruk / Jhinu Danda / other), group size, and hotel in Pokhara
• Step 3: Choose your vehicle – private car (Nayapul only), Jeep, Hiace vJeep, or4. Also confirm your return vehicle requirement – we arrange endpoint pickup at Jhinu Danda, Nayapul, or Siwai
• Step 5: Receive booking confirmation with driver name, vehicle details, and pickup time
• Step 6: Your driver picks you up from your hotel and takes you to the perfect start of your ABC Trek

We recommend booking at least 24 to 48 hours in advance for weekday departures and 3 to 5 days ahead during peak season (October, November, March, April).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the starting point for the ABC Trek from Pokhara?

The most common starting point is Nayapul, approximately 42 km from Pokhara (1.5 to 2 hours by vehicle). Other popular starting points include Ghandruk, Jhinu Danda, and Kimche, all of which require a 4WD jeep and 2 to 3 hours of driving.

How much does a private jeep from Pokhara to Nayapul cost?

A private 4WD jeep from Pokhara to Nayapul costs approximately NPR 4,000- 10,000 (USD 30–70) one way, including driver and fuel.

How much does it cost to hire a jeep from Pokhara to Ghandruk?

A private 4WD jeep from Pokhara to Ghandruk costs approximately NPR 6,000- 15,000 (USD 45–100) one way. A standard car is not suitable for this route.

Is a 4WD jeep necessary for the drive from Pokhara to Nayapul?

A standard car can reach Nayapul as the road is mostly paved. However, for any trailhead beyond Nayapul—Ghandruk, Kimche, Jhinu Danda, or Siwai —a 4WD jeep is mandatory because the tracks are rough and unpaved.

Can I get a shared jeep from Pokhara to Nayapul?

Yes. Shared jeeps depart from Baglung Bus Park in Pokhara and cost approximately NPR 500-800 per person to Nayapul. Departures start around:00 AM. However, shared jeeps go only to Nayapul, not to Ghandruk or other trailheads.

How do I get back from the end of the ABC Trek to Pokhara?

Most ABC treks finish at Jhinu Danda or Nayapul. A pre-booked return vehicle from Nepal Vehicle Hiring is the most reliable option. We strongly recommend arranging return vehicle pickup before beginning your trek so your driver is waiting at the trailhead when you arrive.

Do I need to book a vehicle in advance for the BC trek transport?

For private vehicles, booking is strongly recommended — especially during October, November, March, and April peak seasons when vehicles are in high demand. Nepal Vehicle Hiring accepts bookings up to the day before departure for off-peak dates.

What time should I leave Pokhara for the ABC Trek starting point?

Departing from Pokhara between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM is ideal. This allows you to arrive in Nayapul by 9:00 to 9:30 AM, leaving a full day to trek to Birethanti, Ulleri, or Ghandruk before dark on the first day.

Book Your Pokhara to ABC Trek Starting Point Vehicle with Nepal Vehicle Hiring

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s greatest journeys — and it begins the moment your vehicle leaves Pokhara Lakeside. Whether you are heading to the classic trailhead at Nayapul for the full experience, driving directly to Ghandruk to save precious trekking days, or arranging a return pickup at Jhinu Danda after completing the circuit, Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd provides the most reliable, professional, and affordable vehicle service for every ABC Trek transport need.

Our private cars, 4WD jeeps, and Toyota Hiace vans are maintained to the highest standard. Our drivers know the Pokhara-to-Nayapul and Ghandruk roads as well as their own homes, and our booking process is designed to make your ABC Trek preparation completely stress-free.

Book your jeep— Call or WhatsApp: +977-9814227196
Website: www.vehiclehiringnepal.com
E-mail: [email protected]