The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a relatively short yet breathtaking journey to the South Face of Annapurna, passing through some of Nepal’s most picturesque Gurung villages. Traversing the Modi Khola valley, adorned with diverse flora and fauna, the trek leads to the Modi Khola gorge, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, including the renowned Machhapuchhare at 6,993 meters.
For those seeking additional adventure, the trek offers a two-day extension to Poon Hill, where travelers can witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayas.
Starting from Kathmandu, the itinerary includes a visit to Pokhara, Nepal’s second city, where travelers can unwind in comfortable accommodations before embarking on the trek. Following an early start and a drive to Naya Pul, the trek to Gorapani commences. Day two begins with an early ascent to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan giants.
Chhomrong provides awe-inspiring vistas of Annapurna South at 8,091 meters, Huinchuli at 6,441 meters, and the majestic Machhapuchhare at 6,993 meters, renowned for its fishtail-like summit. The trail then ascends to Machhapuchhare Base Camp at 7,000 meters, surrounded by a majestic cirque of towering peaks.
The final leg of the trek culminates at Annapurna Base Camp, offering a close encounter with the towering giants of the Annapurna range. The descent retraces the valley to the lush forests and rhododendron thickets of Jhinu Dada, where travelers can unwind in natural hot springs before the final trek back to Naya Pul, Pokhara, and Kathmandu.
Annapurna Sanctuary Trip Highlights:
– Category: ‘Nepal Himalaya at its Best’ trek
– Region: Annapurna, Nepal
– Grade: Grade 3
– Duration: Minimum recommended 14 trek days
– Altitude: Maximum – 4,330 meters
– Style: Lodge
Itinerary for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek:
1. Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
2. Day 02: Sightseeing and trek Preparation
3. Day 03: Kathmandu to Pokhara (823m, drive or fly)
4. Day 04: Drive to Naya Pul and trek to Ulleri (2,050m, 1 hour drive and 6 hours trek)
5. Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2,750m, 4-5 hours)
6. Day 06: Trek via Poon Hill to Tadapani (2,700m, 5-6 hours trek)
7. Day 07: Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m, 6 hours trek)
8. Day 08: Trek to Dovan (2,580m, 6 hours trek)
9. Day 09: Trek to Deurali (3,230m, 4 hours trek)
10. Day 10: Trek to MBC (3,700m, 3-4 hours trek)
11. Day 11: Rest and acclimatization day
12. Day 12: Trek to ABC (4,130m) and return to MBC (3 hours ascent, 2 hours descent)
13. Day 13: ABC to Bamboo (2,310m, 6 hours trek)
14. Day 14: Bamboo to Jhinu Dada (1,760m, 6 hours trek)
15. Day 15: Trek to Naya Pul, then drive to Pokhara (6 hours trek, 1-hour drive)
This itinerary provides a brief overview of the trekking possibilities in this region, as with all ‘Travel Nepal Blog’ trekking itineraries.
