Guide
Getting to Annapurna Trailheads by Car: Pokhara to Nayapul and Beyond
How trekkers reach Annapurna trailheads from Pokhara: Nayapul, Phedi and Besisahar, driving times, road conditions and when a private vehicle beats the bus.
By DriveRentalNepal ·
For most Annapurna treks the walking starts a short drive from Pokhara. Choosing how to get to the trailhead is one of the first logistics decisions.
Common trailheads
- Nayapul, about 1.5 hours from Pokhara, for the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp treks
- Phedi, about 30 minutes from Lakeside, for the Australian Camp and Dhampus walks
- Besisahar, several hours east, the traditional start of the Annapurna Circuit
Road conditions
The main road to Nayapul is paved and easy. Some routes beyond the paved sections can be steep, rough and muddy after rain, and in the monsoon landslides are possible. A pickup or jeep handles these better than a small car.
Why private transport helps
Local buses are cheap but slow, crowded and awkward with large duffels. A private van or jeep leaves when you want, drops you at the exact trailhead and can meet you at the end of the trek.
Planning tips
Trekking peaks in October to November and March to April, so book vehicles ahead. Share your permit dates, start and end points and group size; we can arrange the drop-off and the pickup at the other end.