Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The dream city that flaunts immense natural splendour, Pokhara is the gateway to Annapurna Region. Following a 1-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, we’ll commence our trekking escapade and pursue the trail that proceeds through the rhododendron woodland to Birethanti (1,015m) where we need to show our TIMS and trekking permits at ACAP check-point situated here. The path now climbs uphill along the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola to Hille (1,495m) then to Tikhedhunga (1,540m). Afterwards, we’ll ascend stone steps which steeply ascend to Ulleri (1,960m). An introduction to the trekking experience in the Annapurna region, today’s trek is short as well as fairly non-strenuous.

We’ll make an ascent through the oak and rhododendron woodlands to Bhantanti (2,250m). Subsequently, we’ll move past a mossy waterfall then continue to Nangethanti (2,460m). From here, the trail forges ahead across the enchanting forest to Ghorepani (2,860m). A beautiful village amidst rhododendron woodland, Ghorepani bestows spectacular view of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri mountain peaks.  The hike will be quite demanding this very day, as we’ll have to walk straight up the face of the hill for a couple of hours, eventually catching the splendid sight of the snow-covered Annapurna summits.

Prior to the daybreak, we’ll initiate an hour hike to Poon Hill. Situated at an elevation of 3,210m asl, Poonhill is regarded as the best viewpoint in the entire Annapurna Region that extends unobstructed sunrise view over the lofty Himalayas. Moreover, the Himalayan panorama is mind-boggling in itself when observed from this vantage point. After taking few snaps of the astounding natural scenery, we’ll trek back to Ghorepani. Later on, we’ll follow the main trekking trail, which makes a climb along the ridges and through the woodland of pine and rhododendron, in the direction of Deurali (2,960m). At last, we’ll descend to the settlement of Tadapani (2,710m).

Early in the morning, we’ll feast our eyes on the sublime vistas of Annapurna South (7,129m), Hiunchuli (6,440m) and Machhapuchhre (6,997m). Thereafter, we’ll proceed downhill via the rhododendron forest then gently ascend to Gurung village of Gurjung. We’ll keep on with the trail to Chomrong, a village chiefly inhabited by Gurung communities.  You can enjoy the close proximity outlooks of the elegant mountaintops here.  Resuming our trek, we’ll carry on with our descent until we traverse Chomrong Khola after which, we’ll climb our way to Sinuwa (2300m). This stretch of trail is lined with fields and thin forests.

The trail initially ascends in a gradual way to a clearing where we can see a deserted ACAP checkpoint.  Later, an abrupt descent across the dense woods via stone steps will lead us to Bamboo (2,339m). We can hear the burbles of Modi Khola flowing alongside on the way. Crossing the wooden bridges, the trail now inclines upward beyond the seductive woodland to Dovan (2,579m). Being in a picturesque setting, this relatively unchallenging segment of the trail is one of the most beautiful parts of our entire trekking venture. With a blend of short stretches of steep and gradual ascents, the path finally makes it to Himalaya (2,900m). You are likely to discover indications of previous landslides and avalanches on the trail today.

In the pursuit of the trail, we’ll climb steadily for about an hour to Hinku Cave.  As the entrance of this cave is blocked, you cannot have a look at the inside of the cave.  With a gradual descend, we’ll cross a stream and climb our way to Deurali (3,229m). Meanwhile, the terrain begins to switch from dense forest to alpine boulder. We can observe bamboo, ferns and grasses as the primary vegetations. Thereafter, the trail opens up to the valley alongside Modi Khola raging past next to us. Accompanied by the lovely outlooks of Machhapuchhre and Gangapurna, we’ll move down to Bagar via a stone staircase. We’ll then continue our uphill climb to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,704m).  Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring outlooks of Machhapuchhre (6.993m) and Annapurna (8,091m) to feel the majesty of mighty Himalayas. During the journey, you’ll find small flowering plants adorn the trail with their lovely colours. In addition, we have to make sure that we walk slowly in order to help our body acclimatize according to higher elevations. Subsequently, we’ll ascend further on the trail and set our foot at Annapurna Base Camp (4,100m). At this heavenly place, you are encircled by the majestic snow-clad mountains including Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Gandharvachuli and Machhapuchhre. Furthermore, these mountains are so close to you that you can indeed feel their imposing beauty!! Choose your favourite location the edge of the Annapurna glacier and drift in the enchantment of the blissful vistas.

We will retrace the exact same route that we took to land up at ABC, all the way to Bamboo – traversing MBC, Deurali, Himalaya and Dovan. We’ll encounter short ascents together with long segments of abrupt descent as we progress further along the trail. In the end, we’ll reach Bamboo (1,700m).

We’ll follow the trail back to Sinuwa then come across a precipitous descent to Chomrung Khola. Thereupon, we’ll confront an hour-long abrupt ascent to Chomrong from where we’ll take the well-marked trail to Jhinu Danda (1,780m). Facing towards Modi Khola, Jhinu Danda extends the prepossessing view of the tropical woodlands. Additionally, this place is renowned for its natural hot springs in which we can loosen up our tired muscles in the alleviating its hot waters.

Leaving Jhinu Danda, we’ll first descend and range over a bridge over Kimrong Khola. We’ll move forward on the trail, all the way to Birethanti overcoming many up and downs. Eventually, we’ll again make an appearance in Nayapul. An hour drive via private vehicle will now bring us back to Pokhara. Once here, you can spend your free time exploring the marvellous landmarks within its vicinity.