Trek Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a thrilling 12 days adventure. It combines the popular Ghorepani Poonhill Trek with the Short Annapurna Base Camp trek for a unique journey.
You will walk along pretty paths that go through communities and rhododendron forests that are in bloom. Take in the views of some of the world's tallest mountains. The highest point of this trail is 4,130 meters, which puts you right in the middle of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
You learn about Himalayan culture on the trip, which is more than just a walk. Nepal is a beautiful place where you can meet friendly people and experience their kindness. The beautiful sunrise at Poonhill and the foot of Annapurna I are moments that will stay with you forever.
Your adventure starts in Kathmandu, which is very busy. Drive from there to Pokhara, which is the way to get to Annapurna. Take in the stunning views as you drive through the western mid-hills to get to this lovely lakeside city.
On the way from Ghorepani to Annapurna Base Camp, there are amazing views of the Annapurna mountain range. Rhododendron woods turn into grassy mountain slopes as you go up.
The cultural experience is one of the best parts of this trip. Talk to people from Nepal, eat traditional Nepali food, and visit cute Gurung and Magar towns. The villagers make you feel welcome and relaxed, and they tell you interesting stories about life in the Himalayas.
Wildlife and plants of many kinds live in the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is part of the trip. Rhododendrons bloom in the spring and light up the way. You might see a Himalayan tahr, a pheasant, or even a bear if you're lucky. Every day is full of new shocks and things to learn.
The best part is getting to Poonhill before dawn. You can see the sun rise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri at 3,210 meters. The sky will be orange and pink as it does so. A lot of people visit this spot in Nepal.
The views get even better as you get closer to Annapurna Base Camp. Annapurna I, which is 8,091 meters high, is one of the mountains that towers over you.
Annapurna's base camp looks and feels like a real theater. It has wide, beautiful views. The huge mountains leave an image that you'll never forget, even after the hike.
Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Spectacular sunrise view from Poonhill.
- Witness magnificent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South.
- Trek through blooming rhododendron forests in early spring.
- Meeting the local Gurungs and Magars.
- Enjoy warm meals at tea houses, especially Dal Bhat.
- Annapurna Base Camp: high mountains on all sides.
- Observe various wildlife in the conservation area of Annapurna.
ABC Trek Route at a Glance
The Annapurna Base Camp trek begins in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant metropolis. When you're ready, you'll take a beautiful drive to Pokhara, a city by a lake surrounded by hills.
You'll drive to Birethanti in the morning and begin your first hike to Ulleri. Along the way, you'll see rivers, forests, and cute towns as you slowly climb. As you continue on the trail, you'll reach Ghorepani, a lovely stop in the hills.
Early the next morning, you will take a short hike to Poon Hill to see the sun rise. With golden light hitting the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, this view will stay with you forever. To get to Tadapani, you'll then have to keep going through woods and ridges.
To get to Sinuwa, the way goes up and down and back up again from Tadapani. There are not as many people on this stretch, and there are many azalea trees. The trail then goes on towards Deurali, which brings you closer to the mountains.
You will reach Annapurna Base Camp on the 8th day of your trek. The climb is slow but gratifying, and there are stunning peaks all around you. The views are out of this world, and the air is cool.
After taking in the view, you'll start going back down, following the path you took to get to Sinuwa. The trail then descends to Jhinu, a popular destination for its natural hot springs—the ideal way to relax after a long day of hiking. These are great for tired legs. Finally, you'll take a drive back to Pokhara. From there, you'll go to Kathmandu to catch your flight.
Accommodation During the ABC Trek
Along your Annapurna Base Camp journey, you will be staying at locally run tea houses. The tea houses are small establishments that offer clean bedrooms that have two beds and warm blankets.
Most teahouses provide home-style, hearty meals. Dal bhat is standard, but it's also possible to find fried rice, soup, and pancakes. Menus are less extensive the higher you climb.
The rooms are basic but equipped with what you require. There are shared bathrooms, and you generally have the option for a hot shower for an additional fee. You may also use Wi-Fi throughout most areas, but it could be less quick at higher locations.
At Annapurna Base Camp, you won’t find luxury, but that’s not why people come. Here, the true comfort lies in the mountains themselves. Waking to view first light on Annapurna I, for instance, makes every hike worthwhile.