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Annapurna Sanctuary Trek – Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (ABC Trek) is a popular quick access base camp trekking located in the Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, high-altitude alpine meadows, and charming villages inhabited by ethnic Gurung communities.
One of the highlights of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is reaching the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 4,130 meters. The base camp offers awe-inspiring views of gigantic mountains, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machhapuchhare (also known as Fishtail Mountain), Gangapurna (7,455 m), and Hiunchuli (6,434 m). Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is the best trekking option for those who hope to reach the base camps of the high mountains in less time and without any strenuous walking.
It is possible to make the Annapurna Sanctuary trek itinerary short and long to suit your needs. The longer route goes via Poon Hill (3,210 m) and the shorter route via Ghandruk or Simrung directly to Annapurna Base Camp. After the motor road connecting Nayapul to Simrung near Jhinu Danda and Ghandruk, it became possible to make the Annapurna Sanctuary trek within 7 days, bypassing the Kathmandu section.
The short Annapurna Sanctuary trek starts from Simrung village and ends at Simrung village. There is an off-road drive from Nayapul to Simrung village but from Pokhara to Nayapul on Blacktop Road. Of course, drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara on the blacktop road, but if you prefer to use a flight, that is also possible.
The trek from Simrung village you will follow the trail through beautiful villages, terraced fields, and lush forests. You will pass through Jhinu Danda, Chhomrong, Sinuwa, Bamboo, Himalaya hotel, Deurali, Machhapuchhare Base Camp, and Annapurna Base Camp.
But if you want to go trekking for less than 7 days, then it is mandatory that you have to use a flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, including the Kathmandu segment, at least 10 days are required including arrival, departure, and sightseeing in Kathmandu city.
There is also a natural hot spring near Jhinu Danda on the trek route, you can purify yourself spiritually in the natural hot springs with bathing areas in the lap of the mountains. Locals believe that the waters have a healing quality that ease away your aches and pains.
After enjoying the Annapurna Base Camp, you usually retrace your steps back to Simrung village to end the trek. The return journey follows roughly the same path as the ascent, but maybe faster due to the descending terrain. However, it is still necessary to take proper care of your physical health, as the downhill trek can be tough on your knees and joints.
From Simrung, you will drive by local private jeep to Pokhara. The next day, you will drive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu, depending on your travel plans.
10 days Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (Annapurna Base Camp Trek) includes 5 days trekking (7 days from Kathmandu), one day sightseeing in Kathmandu and two days for arrival and departure from Kathmandu.
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Highlights
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding high mountain meadows and the breathtaking views of the glaciers and peaks.
- The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is considered moderately challenging, making it suitable for trekkers with varying levels of experience.
- Connect with nature and yourself on this challenging yet rewarding journey.
- Follow the Modi Khola River as it cuts through deep gorges and cascades down waterfalls, offering a stunning backdrop to your hike.
- Witness the towering peaks of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
- Experience diverse flora and fauna, from lush rhododendron forests to alpine vegetation. Look out for wildlife such as Himalayan tahr, deer and various bird species.
- Immerse yourself in the lives of the Gurung people, visiting their traditional villages and learning about their customs and way of life.
- After days of trekking, you can relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, offering a soothing experience for tired muscles.
- Visit to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city, the best place to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Stay overnight in teahouses along the route, rest, enjoy local food and share experiences with other hikers.
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Cost
The cost of the Annapurna Sanctuary trekking (Annapurna Base Camp trekking) package depends on various factors. These include the duration of the trek, the size of the group (Larger groups might be able to negotiate better rates, while solo trekkers or small groups may pay a premium for personalized services), the level of services included (budget, standard, luxury) and the reputation and standard of the trekking company you choose.
The Alpine Adventure Club announces the cost and some fixed departure dates for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (ABC Trek) for groups joining in 2024 and 2025, the cost includes the standard service. If you wish to participate in a private trek, the cost will be different.
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 10 Days Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival and transfer to hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation
Day 03: Kathmandu to Pokhara (850 m) drive by Tourist Bus
Day 04: Pokhara drive to Simrung Village or Matque then trek to Chhomrong (2,170 m)
Day 05: Chhomrong trek to Himalaya Hotel (2,900 m)
Day 06: Himalaya trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m)
Day 07: Annapurna Base Camp trek to Bamboo (2,310 m)
Day 08: Bamboo trek to Simrung Village, then drive to Pokhara
Day 09: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350 m) drive by Tourist Bus
Day 10: Depart Kathmandu
