Machhapuchhre Base Camp, known on trail signs as MBC, sits at 3,700 m where the Modi Khola gorge opens into the sanctuary. The approach from Deurali follows the river through a section exposed to avalanches from the slopes above, particularly in late winter and spring; a January 2020 avalanche near Deurali killed several trekkers and guides. When risk is high, the trail is sometimes rerouted to the other side of the valley. Check current status before you travel.
From MBC the path to Annapurna Base Camp climbs gently but steadily over grassy slopes and old moraine, gaining about 430 m in roughly 1.5–2 hours. The air is thin, so walk slowly and breathe deeply. Machhapuchhre looms behind you and the south face of Annapurna I grows ahead. In spring there may be deep snow; in autumn the trail is dry and clear. Look out for Himalayan monal pheasants on the slopes below the trail.
Altitude matters here. Many trekkers climb from Deurali (3,230 m) to ABC in one day, a gain of 900 m. If anyone has a headache, nausea, dizziness or unusual tiredness, we stop at MBC for the night and continue next morning. Symptoms that worsen at rest are a signal to descend, not to push on. Our guides carry a pulse oximeter and a first aid kit, and helicopter evacuation can be arranged from either base camp in clear weather.
Good for
- Groups
- Solo
- Photographers
- First-timers
Questions travellers ask
How far is Machhapuchhre Base Camp from Annapurna Base Camp?
About 1.5–2 hours on foot, climbing roughly 430 m from 3,700 m to 4,130 m over meadow and moraine. The trail is well marked and not technical, but the altitude slows everyone down. In snow it can take longer, and the path is harder to follow without a guide.
Is there avalanche risk on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, mainly on the section between Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp in late winter and spring, when snow builds on the slopes above the trail. A January 2020 avalanche there killed several people. Lodges and ACAP post warnings and sometimes reroute the trail. Check current status before you travel.
Will I get altitude sickness at Annapurna Base Camp?
Some trekkers feel mild symptoms such as headache, poor sleep or loss of appetite at 4,130 m. Serious altitude sickness is less common but possible, especially after a fast climb. Ascend gradually, drink 3–4 litres of water a day, avoid alcohol and descend if symptoms worsen at rest.
