12 Day Annapurna Sanctuary

Annapurna Sanctuary ClimbDESCRIPTION

View Himalayan giants that rise 7,000 m (22,965 ft) above sea level.  The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek leads you to a natural amphitheater and it won’t disappoint with its spectacular scenery of Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Annapurna’s.  This is an amazing short trek into the heart of the Himalaya’s that begins with a short drive from Pokhara to NayaPul.  For several days the trek follows the gorge where you cross the river multiple times via suspension bridges.  Once you reach Machhapuchre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp you will greeted with a 360 degree view of the Annapurna range.

The route then leads to back to Ghorepani, where you will ascent Poon Hill for a final view of the breathtaking Annapurna range.  Trekking out of the Annapurna Sanctuary to Pokhara where you will catch a flight back to Kathmandu.

annapurna-sanctuary-hike-watermark

ITINERARY

DAY 1
Arrive Kathmandu

Namaste and welcome to colorful Kathmandu where our friendly Ultimate Expeditions representative will meet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel. During this meet and greet your guide will discuss the daily activities of your trip.

DAY 2
Fly to Pokhara (3,280 ft / 1,000 m), Drive to Nayapul (3,317 ft / 1,011 m), Trek to Tikhedhunga (5,052 ft / 1540 m)

A morning flight gets us to Pokhara and then a 1.5 hour drive to NayaPul. The days trek begins through a sub-tropical forest and at times is carved into the side of the cliff. After crossing the Modi Khola (river) via a suspension bridge we enter the village of Tikhedhunga where we will stay for the night.

DAY 3
Trek to Ghorepani (9,120 ft / 2,780 m)

The trail getting will take us across a small suspension bridge, and then makes its way through a rhododendron forest. We ascent to Ulleri and then Ghorepani, which means "horse water," this village was an important campsite for traders long before it became a regular stop for hikers. This interesting town offers small shops and stalls, selling local products and crafts. Overnight in Ghorepani with beautiful views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range.

DAY 4
Ascent Poon Hill (10,498 ft / 3,200 m), Trek to Tadapani (8,628 ft / 2,630 m)

We catch the sunrise over the Himalayas, an early morning hike along a steep trail to Poon Hill. This is by far the most popular trekking destination in the entire Annapurna region. Enjoy spectacular sunrise views of Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Annapurna’s. We then make our descent to Tadapani.

DAY 5
Trek to Chomrong (7,119 ft / 2,170 m)

The trail follows a steep descend through a dense rhododendron forest to Lower Chomrong, and then it’s a long ascent up the stony steps to Upper Chomrong, a beautiful village among giants.

DAY 6
Trek to Bamboo (7,578 ft / 2,300 m)

As we head out of Chomrong, the trail descents steeply down a stone staircase and crosses the Chomrong Khola on a suspension bridge. The trek zigzags through a through beautiful forest, crossing streams until reaching Bamboo.

DAY 7
Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (12,139 ft / 3,700 m)

As we climb higher in elevation the scenery transforms a lush forest to shrubs, to wide open spaces. The towering Machhapuchhare is a sacred peak and to the local people it represents the Hindu God Shiva. From here you will enjoy panoramic views include Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I and Machhapuchhare.

DAY 8
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (13,549 ft / 4,130 m)

Today’s hike we will encounter glacial moraine and will get our first real view of Annapurna's nearly vertical south face. Surrounded by giants such as Machhapuchre, Annapurna south, Annapurna I and Hiuchuli, the 360 degrees of scenic beauty will leave you speechless. From here we head back down the valley.

DAY 9
Trek to Chhomorung (7,119 ft / 2,170 m)

As we descend, breathing becomes easier. Today we will retrace our steps through Bamboo and Sinuwa until finally reaching Chhomorung.

DAY 10
Trek to Nayapul (3,317 ft / 1,011 m), drive to Pokhara (3,280 ft / 1,000 m)

The last day on the trail spent hiking from Chomrong to Nayapul and is then followed by a vehicle transfer (approximately 1.5 hours) to your hotel in Pokhara.

DAY 11
Fly to Kathmandu

An early morning flight from Pokhara will take you back to Kathmandu, where you can spend the day sightseeing or shopping for souvenirs. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.

DAY 12
Depart Kathmandu

Our Ultimate Expeditions representative will drive you to the airport in Kathmandu for your return flight home.

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INCLUDED

  • Airport transfers
  • 2 nights at hotel in Kathmandu (before & after trek)
  • All ground transportation to and from trailhead
  • Flights to and from Kathmandu to Lukla (Everest region treks) or Pokhara (Annapurna region treks)
  • National Park permits, fees
  • Expert guides and porters
  • Lodge accommodations during treks, double occupancy
  • Meals and beverages during trek

EXCLUDED

  • Airfare
  • Lunch or dinner at hotel
  • Beverages at hotel
  • Personal gear and equipment
  • Tips

Nepal Trips