Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: 7 Nights, 8 Days
Embark on a classic trek in the breathtaking Annapurna region, culminating at the iconic Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) over 7 nights and 8 days. This relatively short yet immersive journey commences and concludes in the picturesque city of Pokhara.
Starting Point: New Bridge (Nayaphul) is the most convenient starting point, accessible by a 1-2 hour drive from Pokhara. Alternatively, you can commence the trek from Dhampus.
Trail Highlights:
New Bridge to Ghorepani: The trail weaves through enchanting landscapes, passing through Birethanti (1,097m), Tirekhedhunga, Ulleri, and Banthanti before reaching Ghorepani, the largest Gurung village.
Chomrong Junction: Two trails converge at Chomrong, situated at the base of the gorge leading to the Annapurna Sanctuary. An extra night is recommended between Chomrong and the Sanctuary for acclimatization.
Modi Khola Trail: Ascend along the Modi Khola, navigating dense forests of rhododendrons and bamboo on the first day. Encounter the Hinku Cave, a large rock overhang, before entering the grand amphitheater of the Sanctuary.
Annapurna and Machhapuchhre Views: Marvel at the panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna III (7,855m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Annapurna South (7,819m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and more.
Machhapuchhre and Annapurna Base Camps: Optionally, extend your trek by two hours to reach both Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by awe-inspiring peaks.
Himalayan Sights:
Witness a spectacular array of Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna I to IV, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri I and II, Churen Himal, Nilgiri, Thapa Peak, Tukche Peak, Tilicho Peak, Mardi Himal, Singu Chuli, Tharpu Chuli, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Himalchuli, Pisang Peak, Himlung, Chulu East, and Chulu West.
Cultural Experience:
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of cultures along the trail, encountering diverse communities dominated by Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Tibetan influences.
The Annapurna Sanctuary trek promises not only breathtaking mountain vistas but also an enriching cultural experience as you traverse through the heart of the Annapurna region.
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: 7 Nights, 8 Days
Day 01: Drive to NayaPul or Hile, Trek to Ulleri (1960m) – 4-5 hours
Commence your journey with a scenic 2-hour drive to NayaPul or continue to Hile. Begin the trek from Birethanti along the Modi River, gradually ascending to Tikhedhunga and reaching the Magar Village of Ulleri via a steep stone staircase.
Day 02: Trek to Ghorepani (2860m) – 5-6 hours
Cross sparkling streams, climb to Nangethanti for lunch, and then ascend to Ghorepani at 2850m. Ghorepani, meaning “horse water,” is a vital watering stop for journeying animals. Enjoy panoramic views and stay overnight.
Day 03: Ghorepani to Poonhill (3210m) and Tadapani (2630m) – 6-7 hours
Rise early to climb Poon Hill for spectacular sunrise views. After breakfast, traverse through forests to Tadapani, offering glimpses of Machhapuchhare and a panorama extending south to the plains of India. Optionally, continue to Choile.
Day 04: Tadapani to Choile, then Sinuwa (2360m)
Descend through rhododendron and oak forests, enjoying mountain views. Lunch in Chhomrung, the highest Gurung village. Continue through bamboo, rhododendron forests, and rocky trails to Sinuwa at 2360 meters.
Day 05: Sinuwa to Dovan (2600m) to Deurali (3230m)
Descend through bamboo and rhododendron forests, climb steeply to Dovan for lunch, and continue to Deurali at 3230 meters, passing through stands of bamboo and crossing tributary streams.
Day 06: Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)
Navigate a muddy trail high above the river, pass Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and reach Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) at 4,130 meters. Enjoy breathtaking views and stay overnight.
Day 07: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m) – 6-7 hours
Witness the sunrise over the mountains before returning to Bamboo. After breakfast, retrace your steps through Sinuwa, Chomrong, Jhino dada, and reach Bamboo.
Day 08: Bamboo to Markhu, Drive to Pokhara (860m)
Descend through the village to Sinuwa, Chomrong, Jhino dada, and reach Markhu. Drive to Pokhara for approximately 3 hours.
Important Facts:
7 nights, 8 days trek with full board, guide, and porter.
Private ground transportation from Pokhara to Pokhara.
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Project, TIMS.
Meals During the Trek:
Three meals a day (light lunch due to time constraints).
Breakfast: Eggs, bread, pancake, muesli, porridge, Tibetan bread, tea, coffee.
Dinner: Varied choices including Nepali, Tibetan, Chinese, Indian, European, and continental.
Snacks: Chocolate, tea, coffee.
Amenities: Toilet paper, hand sanitizer.
Note:
The itinerary can be customized according to your time frame. Feel free to ask any questions or make specific requests.