Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Trip Overview
Overview
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a breathtaking adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna mountain range in Nepal. This trek is a popular choice for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers due to its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The journey begins in the charming town of Pokhara, where you will also embark on a scenic drive to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. The trail meanders through lush green valleys, terraced fields, and quaint traditional villages, offering glimpses of local life and culture. You'll pass through bamboo forests and rhododendron-filled woodlands, accompanied by the soothing sound of gushing rivers and cascading waterfalls. As you ascend higher, the panoramic views become more awe-inspiring. Towering peaks, including the majestic Annapurna I (8,091m) and Machapuchare (6,993m), surround you, creating a surreal setting. The trek leads you to the Annapurna Base Camp, nestled at an altitude of 4,130 meters, right at the base of the magnificent peaks. Standing there, you'll also get surroundings of a natural amphitheater of snow-capped mountains, an experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul. Throughout the trek, you'll have the opportunity to interact with friendly locals, known for their warm hospitality. You can also immerse yourself in their vibrant culture, observe traditional farming practices, and savor authentic Nepalese cuisine. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a moderate to challenging trek, suitable for both seasoned trekkers and those with prior hiking experience. It typically takes around 10 to 14 days to complete, depending on the chosen itinerary and your pace. It's essential to be physically fit and adequately prepared for the changing weather conditions and altitude challenges.Conclusion and Summary
In conclusion, the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of accomplishment. It offers an incredible opportunity to explore the Himalayas, witness stunning vistas, and create lasting memories amidst the splendor of Nepal's Annapurna region.Trip Highlight
- Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
- Relax at hot spring in Jhinu Danda
- Spectacular Sight of Mountains like Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhare peaks
- Get a taste of rural Nepali life
- Machhapuchhare Base Camp (4,000m)
Itinerary
On your arrival, you will be greeted by our representative of Friendship World Treks Team at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) but make sure about our representative with a display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to the hotel. We can either relax in the afternoon or hang around. You will have a dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant where we take pleasure in a Nepalese cultural program as well as food. Overnight at hotel.
The drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara is 7 hours on a tourist bus. Trekking staff will arrive at your Hotel at 6:30AM in the morning to pick you up then the bus will leave around 7:00AM to Pokhara. If you want to fly to Pokhara instead of taking the long journey by bus, this is also possible. There are several flights to Pokhara from 9 am in the morning to 3 pm in the afternoon which offers a splendid view of the Himalayas in the north. Pokhara is a picturesque lake town nestled in the shadow of the Himalayan Peaks and is the suitable startup point for trekking. Overnight at Hotel.
The drive to Nayapul is around two hours. After this short drive, we pack up the bags for porters and start our trip. We walk through the lush, green Modi river valley, past waterfalls with plunge pools that invite you to swim. The ascend of the steep staircase to Magar village of Ulleri (2,070m) a tough one for the first day but you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley below and the peaks of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Overnight at Lodge.
The trek today is a gentle climb through pasture and cultivated fields. After Banthati the trail then continues to ascend more gently, through fine forests of oak and rhododendrons forest to Ghorepani (2,840m). Overnight at Lodge.
Today, very early in the morning, we start an hour hiking to Poon Hill at elevation of 3200 meters. Poon Hill is a famous view point and provides an unobstructed view of sunrise over the high Himalayas. After spending an hour at the view point we return to Ghorepani where we take a hot breakfast and then we trek to Tadapani (2,610m). The trail ascends up to Deurali pass and descends steeply through dense moss-covered forest rich with birdlife to Tadapani. Overnight at Lodge.
The day starts with steep downhill through rhododendron forests. Leaving Tadapani, we descend steeply through forests and then the trail eases as we reach Gurjung which is the village of Gurung people, with an easy walk to Chommrong at elevation of 2,140m. Overnight at Lodge.
Towering above the village is the mighty peak of Annapurna South, with the Fishtail facing it across the valley.
We walk through the forest to Kuldi Ghar, before the route goes steeply down a bank of rock and then levels out, running through riverside bamboo thickets along the base of the gorge. Because there are no villages in this valley, the forests are untouched and we have a very pleasant walk through oak, rhododendron forest as we climb and then descend to a place called Bamboo (2,335m).Then the track winds steeply up through deep bamboo and rhododendron forest to Himalaya Hotel (2,680m) Overnight at Lodge.
Our day begins with the climb through bamboo, then rhododendron forests to Hinko cave.
The track remains on the west bank of the Modi, now flowing through a more open valley, and eventually emerges into the Sanctuary. Straight ahead is the high lateral moraine of the South Annapurna glacier and the Modi follows a deep cliff to the right. This is the site of Machhapuchhre base camp (3,480m). Overnight at Lodge.
Annapurna Base Camp is totally surrounded by mountains and this area is also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary. Two hours trek from Machhapuchhare Base Camp brings us to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) at elevation of 4,130m. There, you will view unobstructed views of mountain scenery, which is very spectacular. Since we arrive at the base camp early, we spend our time visiting to the glaciers and taking the trip further to the base of the mountains. Overnight at Lodge.
From Annapurna Base Camp we follow the same trail down today. It is around 7 hours easy walk back to Bamboo. Overnight at Lodge.
We follow the same trail until Chommrong. From Chomrong the trail descends very steeply to the Jhinuwa hot spring, where you can bathe in natural hot springs. Overnight at Lodge.
We make a three hour trek downhill to Phedi where our vehicle awaits us to transfer us to Pokhara. Afternoon is free to explore the town. Overnight at Hotel.
The drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes around 7 hours. Afternoon is free in Kathmandu to do the last minute shopping. In the evening, a cultural dinner together with cultural dance is served.
Departures & Availability
The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.
Check Available Dates
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All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.
Price include
- Both way transport – Kathmandu and Pokhara by tourist bus
- Transport from Pokhara to Dhampus (trek start) and Ghandruk Phedi (trek end) to Pokhara.
- A night of accommodation (room with attached bathroom) with breakfast at Hotel Silver Oaks in Pokhara
- Accommodation: Three nights room with attached bathroom at Dhampus, Landruk, and Jhinu Danda. Four nights standard accommodation at Himalaya, Annapurna Base Camp, and Bamboo (twin Sharing rooms). Total seven nights
- All standard meals: breakfast in Pokhara hotel, all standard meals (9 Lunches, 8 Dinners, and 9 Breakfasts) during the trek
- Nepal government licensed and experienced Friendship World trek leader (guide), an assistant trekking guide for a group of more than 11. A porter for every two trekkers. Per trekker luggage weight limit is 9 kg.
- Coverage of guides and porters meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
- Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Rescue operation arrangement in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
- Souvenir – a company’s T-shirt & cap
- Friendship World trek appreciation certificate
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the end of the trek
Price Excludes
- International flight airfare
- Nepal entry visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport
- Excess luggage charges (Limit is 9 kg per person)
- All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the trek
- Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
- Extra night accommodations and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek
- Personal expenses such as shopping, snacks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, hot ( tea/coffee), cold and alcoholic drinks, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc
- Personal clothing and gear.
- Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude heli-rescue and evacuation (compulsory)
- Tips for guide and porters
- Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances beyond our control such as bad weather conditions, illness, change of government policy, political instability, strike, etc
- All the costs and expenses not listed in “What’s included in my Annapurna Sanctuary Tour Package?” will be counted as excludes
Gears And Equipment
Certainly, here’s some more detailed information about the Annapurna Base Camp (Sanctuary) Trek:
Location and Route: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is situated in the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. The trekking route usually begins in Nayapul or Phedi, near the lakeside city of Pokhara. From there, trekkers follow a well-established trail that passes through charming villages like Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Sinuwa. The trail then ascends to the Annapurna Base Camp itself, passing through Bamboo, Deurali, and Machapuchare Base Camp along the way.
Duration and Difficulty: The trek can typically be completed in around 7 to 10 days, depending on the starting point and the pace of the trekker. The level of difficulty varies from moderate to challenging, with some steep ascents and descents, particularly as you gain altitude. The highest point of the trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
Permits: Trekkers are required to obtain two permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits help fund conservation efforts and ensure trekkers’ safety.
Best Time to Trek: The best time to embark on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and moderate temperatures, providing optimal conditions for trekking and stunning mountain views.
Accommodation and Facilities: The trail is dotted with teahouses and lodges that provide accommodation and meals for trekkers. These accommodations range from basic to more comfortable options, and it’s advisable to book ahead during peak trekking seasons.
Altitude Sickness: As you ascend to higher altitudes, there is a risk of altitude sickness. It’s essential to acclimatize properly by ascending gradually, staying hydrated, and recognizing the symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s recommended to be familiar with altitude sickness prevention and be prepared to descend if symptoms worsen.
Packing Essentials: Packing essentials include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, rain gear, trekking poles, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications. It’s crucial to pack light while ensuring you have the essentials to stay comfortable throughout the trek.
Cultural Interaction: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers opportunities to interact with local communities, particularly the Gurung and Magar people. You can learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and culture while staying in the villages along the route.
Side Trips: Many trekkers choose to include side trips such as Poon Hill, which offers stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. These side trips add extra days to the trek but are well worth the effort for the breathtaking vistas they provide.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a remarkable adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural exploration, and physical challenge. It’s important to plan and prepare adequately to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Route Map
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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
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