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The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek indeed stands out as one of the most captivating adventures in the world, drawing trekkers from all corners of the globe. Nestled amidst towering peaks like Mount Annapurna, the journey to the Annapurna base camp promises an unforgettable experience.
The trek offers a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems, from lush forests and terraced farmlands to rugged snow-capped peaks. Along the trail, trekkers are treated to breathtaking vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
Beyond the stunning scenery, the trek also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich culture and traditions of the local communities. Villages inhabited by Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Lobas offer a glimpse into their way of life, adorned with Buddhist shrines and traditional practices.
Starting from Pokhara, the journey unfolds through picturesque landscapes, gradually ascending towards the Annapurna Sanctuary. Passing through dense forests and narrow gorges, trekkers eventually find themselves surrounded by a majestic amphitheater of snow-capped peaks upon reaching the base camp.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be tailored to suit various preferences and can even be incorporated into the longer Annapurna Circuit trek. Regardless of the chosen itinerary, embarking on this adventure offers a chance to challenge oneself physically, immerse in natural beauty, and explore the cultural richness of the region.
Indeed, with its awe-inspiring scenery, unique ecosystems, and cultural encounters, the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, leaving trekkers with unforgettable memories of this extraordinary journey.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, We're grateful for the warm welcome extended by our official. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.
Your trekking staff will ensure a smooth transition for you from the hotel to the tourist bus station, beginning your journey to Pokhara at around 7:30 am. Pokhara, often hailed as the gateway to the Annapurna region, is a picturesque valley nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake.
Renowned for its breathtaking views, Pokhara offers panoramic vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks like Annapurna and Machapuchare to the north, Dhaulagiri to the west, and Lamjung Himal and Manaslu to the east.
Compared to the bustling energy of Kathmandu, Pokhara is smaller and more serene, making it an ideal starting point for your Annapurna Base Camp (Annapurna Santuary) trekking adventure. With its tranquil setting and proximity to the majestic Himalayas, Pokhara sets the stage for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Annapurna region.
After breakfast drive to Hile. It takes 2.5 hours. And start trek to Banthanti. The trail goes step up with observing Tikhedunga, Ulleri villages and terrace field. Overnight at Lodge.
Trekking to Ghorepani through a rhododendron forest, especially during April-May when the nine species rhododendron blooms, must be an enchanting experience. The vibrant colors of the flowers would surely add to the beauty of the landscape.
Reaching Nangethani for a well-deserved rest before continuing on to Ghorepani sounds like a wise plan, allowing you to recharge and appreciate the journey. Ghorepani, with its picturesque Poon Magar settlement and numerous lodges catering to tourists, offers a cozy retreat amidst the mountains.
Taking in the evening mountain sceneries from the lodge must be truly mesmerizing, with the fading light casting a golden glow over the peaks. It sounds like the perfect way to end a day of adventure in the Himalayas. Enjoy the tranquility and the majesty of the mountains!
Today's itinerary begins with an early morning hike to Poon Hill, a renowned vantage point offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Starting the hike at dawn allows you to witness the spectacular sunrise over the high Himalayas, creating an unforgettable moment amidst the majestic scenery.
After spending 1 to 2 hours soaking in the breathtaking views from Poon Hill, you'll retrace your steps back to Ghorepani, where a hot breakfast awaits. Energized by the meal, the journey continues with a climb along ridges, traversing through lush pine and rhododendron forests towards Deurali (2,960 m/9,711 ft).
From Deurali, the trail descends to Banthanti before turning off towards Tadapani. This part of the trek offers a blend of scenic beauty and diverse landscapes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Annapurna region. As you traverse through forests and ridges, you'll have ample opportunities to appreciate the rich biodiversity and serene surroundings along the way.
Overall, today's hike promises to be a memorable adventure filled with breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and the tranquility of nature. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the Himalayas as you journey towards Tadapani, experiencing the magic of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek firsthand.
Today's trek begins with a descent through steep rhododendron forests from Tadapani. As you make your way down the trail, surrounded by the lush greenery of the forest, you'll gradually transition into a more gentle descent as you approach Gurjung, a village inhabited by the Gurung people.
The trail continues with ease as you pass through Gurjung, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and observe the traditional way of life of the Gurung community. From Gurjung, the path leads to Chomrong (2,140 m/7,021 ft), a picturesque village nestled amidst the mountains.
Chomrong serves as a welcome stop on your journey, providing a tranquil setting for rest and relaxation after the day's trek. With its charming atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Chomrong offers a glimpse into the beauty and hospitality of the Annapurna region.
As you conclude your day's trek in Chomrong, take the time to unwind, savor the scenic views, and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead on your Annapurna Sanctuary trek.
Today you will have to first go downhill to the river called Chomrongkhola and then uphill to Khudi-ghar. Hiking through dense bamboo forest and rhododendron bushes, amazing landscapes, and the Annapurna Himalaya range, the trail will take you to your final destination of the day, i.e., Dovan or Himalaya.
After breakfast, your day will start climbing the route onwards Himalaya. On the way you can explore the Hinku cave. After lunch, the trail will continue to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp for overnight stay where you can have the closest glimpse of Machhapuchhre along with Annapurna-III and Gangapurna.
This day you will be ascending through a small ridge branching out from the mountain pass to mountainside with widespread terraced fields showcasing tranquil meadows. As soon as you reach Annapurna South Base Camp, you will witness awesome picturesque landscapes, majestic panoramic view of snow-capped mountainous peaks and varied Himalayan cultural settings tucked beneath the southern slopes of the Annapurna massif.
We follow the same trail until Chomrong. Once we have passed Khuldighar, there is an experimental sheep farm. The trail continues through rhododendron and bamboo fields.
From Chomrong, the trail descends very steeply to the Jhinu. Here we can bath in natural hot springs
Today, we will move on a path of a step downwards. As you descend, you will pass through the rhododendron and bamboo forest. Then, 1 hours of walk will finally take you to Matkyu and drive to Pokhara.
We will be driving back to Kathmandu in the morning. In the evening, we host a farewell dinner in a fine restaurant. (Your guide(s) and an office staff will accompany you).
It’s the end of our exciting journey in the Annapurna region Today we conclude our 13 day Annapurna Santuray Trekking . One of our airport representatives will accompany you to the International Airport for your flight back home.
We bid you farewell, and hoping you’ll travel to Nepal again.
All our published dates are guaranteed departures. If the dates don't match with your travel plan. We are more than happy to create your desired date. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for and our travel experts will help Customize Your Own Trip in your dream destination.
| Departure Date | Availability | Price | Action | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Start Date | End Date | |||
| Sep 6, 2024 | Sep 18, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Sep 13, 2024 | May 26, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Sep 20, 2024 | Oct 2, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Sep 27, 2024 | Oct 8, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Oct 4, 2024 | Oct 16, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Oct 11, 2024 | Oct 23, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Oct 13, 2024 | Oct 25, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Oct 18, 2024 | Oct 30, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Nov 1, 2024 | Nov 13, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Nov 8, 2024 | Nov 20, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
| Nov 12, 2024 | Nov 24, 2024 | Available | $945 | |
The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is considered to be moderately difficult, suitable for trekkers with varying levels of experience. While it's not as challenging as some high-altitude treks in the region, such as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp trek, it still requires a reasonable level of fitness and preparation.
Prior trekking experience and training are not strictly required for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek, but they can certainly be beneficial, especially if you're not accustomed to hiking in mountainous terrain or at higher altitudes. Engaging in regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training before the trek can help improve your fitness and endurance, making the trek more enjoyable and manageable.
The Annapurna Sanctuary trek typically involves walking for 6-7 hours a day over varied terrain, including forested trails, rocky paths, and some steep ascents and descents. Altitude sickness is generally not a concern on this trek, as the maximum altitude reached is around 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) at Annapurna Base Camp. However, it's still essential to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
Overall, while prior experience and training are not mandatory, being in good physical condition and mentally prepared for the challenges of trekking in the Himalayas will enhance your experience on the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. If you're uncertain about your fitness level or trekking abilities, consider hiring a reputable guide or joining a trekking group for added support and safety,
During the Annapurna Sanctuary trek, you'll typically stay in tea houses or lodges along the route. These accommodations provide basic but comfortable lodging, usually with shared rooms and common areas. The facilities can vary, but you can generally expect a bed with blankets or sleeping bags provided, as well as shared bathroom facilities with squat toilets.
As for food, most tea houses along the route offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), as well as international options such as pasta, rice, and soups. Meals are usually hearty and designed to provide the energy needed for trekking. Some tea houses may also offer snacks and beverages for purchase.
Regarding drinking water, it's essential to stay hydrated while trekking. You can purchase bottled water at tea houses along the route, but it's recommended to bring a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or a filtration system to ensure safe drinking water. This helps reduce plastic waste and ensures you have access to safe drinking water throughout your trek.
Overall, while facilities along the Annapurna Sanctuary trek may be basic, they provide all the essentials needed for a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.
Health and safety are important considerations when trekking the Annapurna Sanctuary route. Here are some key health and safety issues to be aware of:
Altitude Sickness: While altitude sickness is not usually a concern on the Annapurna Sanctuary trek due to the moderate altitude reached, some trekkers may still experience mild symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness. It's essential to acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If symptoms worsen, descend to a lower altitude.
Hydration and Water Purification: Staying hydrated is crucial while trekking. Carry a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or a filtration system to ensure safe drinking water. Dehydration can exacerbate altitude sickness and other health issues.
Weather Conditions: Weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Be prepared for changing conditions, including rain, snow, and cold temperatures. Pack appropriate clothing layers, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, to stay warm and dry.
Physical Fitness: The Annapurna Sanctuary trek involves walking for several hours a day over varied terrain. A reasonable level of physical fitness is necessary to tackle the trek comfortably. Engage in cardiovascular exercise and strength training before the trek to prepare your body.
Foot Care: Proper foot care is essential to prevent blisters and other foot problems. Wear well-fitted and broken-in hiking boots, and consider bringing blister prevention products like moleskin or blister pads. Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections.
Sun Protection: UV radiation is stronger at higher altitudes. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF rating, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun's rays.
Food Safety: Be cautious with food hygiene to prevent foodborne illnesses. Stick to freshly cooked meals and avoid raw or undercooked foods. Practice proper hand hygiene, and consider bringing hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes.
Emergency Preparedness: Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and altitude sickness medication. Familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation procedures and have a plan in case of emergencies.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can mitigate many health and safety risks while trekking the Annapurna Sanctuary route. Additionally, consider traveling with a reputable guide or trekking company for added support and expertise.
Ghumnajaau's team embodies a profound dedication to mountain adventure and the vast beauty of the great outdoors. With extensive experience in navigating remote trails and towering peaks, they are true specialists in high-altitude exploration. Their diverse backgrounds and qualifications, coupled with a deep connection to the local culture and environment, ensure a rich and authentic experience for every traveler. Led by qualified guides who prioritize safety and enjoyment, each trip is meticulously planned and executed. With a thoughtful ratio of support staff to travelers, personalized assistance is always at hand. Committed to creating unforgettable journeys in the Himalayas, Ghumnajaau's team shares their expertise and passion for the mountains, ensuring every adventurer leaves with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the natural world.
The best time to travel to the Annapurna Sanctuary trek is during the spring and autumn seasons, which offer the most favorable weather and trekking conditions:
Spring (March to May): Spring is an excellent time for trekking in the Annapurna region. During this season, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendron forests adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The trails are also less crowded compared to the peak trekking season in autumn.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another ideal time for trekking the Annapurna Sanctuary route. The weather is typically clear and dry, with crisp air and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Days are warm and sunny, while nights can be chilly, especially at higher altitudes. Autumn is also the peak trekking season, so expect more crowds on the trails and in tea houses.
During these seasons, the weather is generally stable, with minimal precipitation and lower chances of encountering snow or monsoon rains, which can make trekking more challenging. However, it's essential to be prepared for variable weather conditions, as mountain weather can be unpredictable regardless of the season.
While trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is possible, it's not recommended due to heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and increased risk of landslides and avalanches. Similarly, winter (December to February) can bring cold temperatures, snowfall, and limited tea house availability, making trekking more challenging and potentially dangerous.
Overall, the spring and autumn seasons offer the best balance of favorable weather, stunning scenery, and manageable trekking conditions for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek.
Travel insurance is mandatory and highly recommended for any adventurous trips in Nepal, including the Annapuran Sanctuary Trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuation, particularly in cases of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or other emergencies at high altitudes where alternative transportation options are unavailable. It's essential to carefully review the insurance policy and its coverage before making a decision. Participants should carry proof of insurance during the holiday and leave a copy with a trusted contact. Ensuring that the insurance provides adequate protection and covers the activities involved in the trek is crucial for peace of mind and safety throughout the journey.
The provided itinerary serves as a guideline for your trip; however, it is subject to modification based on prevailing situations and your preferences after consulting with your guide. While you have some flexibility in modifying certain aspects of the itinerary, the date of trek completion must align with the original schedule.
Please understand that this is an adventure trip into a remote mountain region, where unforeseen events may necessitate changes to the itinerary. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and in such cases, your guide will recommend the best alternative that closely aligns with the original program.
We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we strive to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience for all participants.
The gear list provided is comprehensive and covers essential equipment for the Annapurna Santuary Trek. Here's a breakdown of the items listed:
Head gears:
Sunhat
Warm hat
Buffs X 2
Sunglasses
Headlamp with spare batteries
Upper Body:
Thermal or fleece base layer top X 2
Short Sleeve Trekking shirts X 2
Full Sleeve trekking shirts X 2
Soft-shell jacket/fleece jacket X 2
Light down jacket X 1
Hardshell jacket with a hood X 1
Insulated Down Jacket (provided by request)
Lower body:
Thermal or fleece base layer bottom X 2
Trekking trousers/pants X 2
Warm trekking trousers X 1
Hardshell pants
Insulated down pants (optional)
Underwear:
5 pairs of underwear
2 Sports Bra for women
Footwear:
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy
Liner socks X 2
Camp shoes
Gaiters (If trekking in March)
Handwear:
Softshell gloves X 1
Heavyweight gloves X 1
Gears / Personal equipment:
Daypack 30-35 litres with rain cover
Waterproof Duffel bag (provided by request)
Down Sleeping bag (-15 C rated) (provided by request)
One-litre capacity water bottle X 2
Trekking poles
Camera with charger or spare batteries
Personal snacks and energy bars
Laundry bag
Padlock (Optional)
Rain Poncho
Large plastic bags
Extra clothes for Kathmandu
Toiletries and hygiene:
Quick-drying towel
Small face towel
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Face mask
Water treatment tools or tablets
Soap and Shampoo/Dry shampoo
Face and body moisturizer
Sunscreen SPF30+ and Lip balm SPF 30+
Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes
Hygiene products
Basic first aid kit (Pepto Bismol, Cipro (500mg tablets), Metronidazole, Hydration salts, Eye drops, Azithromycin (250mg tablets), Diamox (250mg tablets, approx. 20 total), and variety of standard painkillers including Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc)
Documents:
Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
2 copies of passport-size photos (For Sim card and travel purposes)
Credit cards in case of emergencies
Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport
Travel Insurance and Flight tickets
Make sure to double-check the list against your personal needs and preferences, and consider the weather conditions during your trek. Additionally, ensuring proper fitting and comfort of the gear is essential for a successful trekking experience.
Passport:
All foreign visitors to Nepal must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond their planned departure date.
Visa:
Nepal visa can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) or you can obtain Nepal visa prior to your arrival through the Nepalese embassies, diplomatic missions and consulates near your location. Nepal Visa is also issued at the entry points if you are entering Nepal by land.
Visa Fees:
Nepal visa fees are listed below as per the duration.
Multiple entry 15 days – US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days – US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days – US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency
Important Note: It is always advisable to verify the visa requirements upon booking your trip. Visa requirements may vary depending on where you are from and it’s also recommended to check the transit country requirements as well.
While we share this information in good faith, it is crucial for you to independently verify it and acknowledge that you bear full responsibility for your visa requirements.
Point of Arrival:
Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal
Meeting Instructions:
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), proceed to pay your visa fee, apply for Visa On Arrival (VOA), clear customs, and collect your luggage.
Look for a team member holding a placard stating 'Ghumnajaau' outside the arrival hall.
You will be escorted to your hotel for check-in.
Airport Pickup and Drop:
Airport transfers are arranged based on the flight information you provide.
Notify promptly if there are changes to your flight schedule.
Look for a team member holding a placard that reads 'Ghumnajaau' in the arrival area for pickup.
For departure, you will be taken to the airport according to your flight schedule.
Emergency Contact for Airport Transfers:
• Santosh: +9779840027548
Having clear instructions and emergency contacts ensures a smooth transition upon arrival and departure from Kathmandu. If there are any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Santosh or the team for assistance.
