Join us on an extraordinary adventure to explore stunning mountains and giant waterfalls and experience the warm and intriguing Gurung culture of the Annapurna region with World Alpine Treks. Our 11-day Annapurna Sanctuary Trek offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and serene traditions, providing a perfect escape into tranquility.
Our Annapurna Sanctuary Trek begins in chaotic yet beautiful Kathmandu. From the moment you arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll feel the excitement of the adventure that lies ahead. Flying to the serene city of Pokhara, officially initiate your trekking journey to the Annapurna region. From Pokhara, you drive to Hile, from where you will begin your trek to Ulleri, where you can observe terraced fields and traditional villages, replacing the cemented houses and compactness of the city.
The climb to Ghorepani on the third day is rewarded with stunning vistas that will take your breath away. Ghorepani, a Gurung hub, is a pretty popular traditional village that adorns unique stone slab houses that serve as teahouses. Early the next morning, a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill presents one of the most iconic views in the Himalayas—a golden sunrise illuminating the snow-capped peaks of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna range. From there, the trail leads to Tadapani, where you are enveloped by the tranquility of rhododendron forests.
As you trek from Tadapani to Sinuwa, the air grows cooler and the towering peaks draw nearer, signaling your approach to the sanctuary. The journey to Deurali the following day is marked by awe-inspiring landscapes as the path winds through deep gorges and lush bamboo forests. With every step, you are drawn deeper into the mystical world of the Annapurna’s.
Arriving at Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a moment of pure exhilaration. This trek section is pretty challenging because of its steep ascends and descends, but nothing too strenuous. Also, giant cascading waterfalls on the way add more bliss to the journey.
Once you arrive at ABC bypassing Machhapuchhre Base Camp, you notice a change in landscape. Surrounded by incredible natural beauty, you find yourself facing the giant Annapurna massif. Besides the gigantic mountains, you will also see vast glaciers just on the side of the base camp. The descent begins the next day, retracing your steps to Bamboo, where the memories of the sanctuary linger in your mind.
The final leg of the trek takes you to Jhinu Dada, where you can soak in natural hot springs, soothing your tired muscles and reflecting on the journey. A scenic drive brings you back to Pokhara, where the tranquility of Phewa Lake offers a perfect end to your trek. Returning to Kathmandu the next day, you are once again reacquainted with the chaos of the city.
The journey for sure is not the easiest one, but it is not the most difficult as well. Despite the challenges it holds, it surely promises experiences that shall last lifelong and leave you wanting more. So, when you are preparing to depart, we shall bid you farewell in hopes of seeing you again for another incredible adventure.
You will be welcomed by one of our team representatives at the airport. They will escort you to your designated hotel, where they will help you with the check-in procedure. After check-in, you may spend your remaining day at your convenience.
After an early breakfast, a short scenic flight takes you to Pokhara, a city nestled beside the tranquil Phewa Lake and surrounded by the stunning Annapurna range. From Pokhara, you will drive to Hile, the starting point of your trek. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through terraced fields and traditional villages, offering the first glimpses of the majestic peaks that will accompany you throughout the trek. As you continue trekking, the path gradually steepens until you reach the village of Ulleri, which is the final destination for the day.
Today’s trek takes you from Ulleri to the charming village of Ghorepani. The trail ascends through dense rhododendron forests, which burst into vibrant colors during the spring season. As you climb higher, the views of the surrounding mountains become increasingly spectacular. Upon reaching Ghorepani, you will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas and the unique culture of the Gurung ethnic community. The village itself is architecturally pleasing, with its traditional stone houses and warm hospitality, making it a memorable stop on your journey.
Wake up early to hike Poon Hill, one of the famous viewpoints in the Annapurna region. The effort is well worth it, as you witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas, with the peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machapuchare (Fishtail) bathed in golden light. Following that, after viewing the panorama, you head back to Ghorepani for breakfast, from where you will continue your trek towards Tadapani. This path goes along with the rich forests, and sometimes the trail opens up for the magnificent towering views of the mountains, making a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
The trek from Tadapani to Sinuwa is a day filled with diverse landscapes and stunning views. Starting with a descent through a dense rhododendron forest, you cross the Kyumrung Khola River before ascending to the village of Gurung. From there, the trail leads through lush forests and terraced farmlands to Talung, offering glimpses of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks along the way. Continuing upwards from Jhinu Danda, you reach the scenic village of Chhomrong, known for its panoramic mountain views. A steep descent to the Chhomrong Khola River is followed by a challenging ascent through forested terrain, bringing you to the peaceful ridgetop village of Sinuwa, where the day’s trek concludes with breathtaking valleys and mountain vistas.
Leaving Sinuwa behind, you’ll trek towards Deurali, a journey that brings you deeper into the heart of the Himalayas. It is a long journey ahead of us with a lot of ascends and descends through steep trails and incredible vegetation. Leaving Sinuwa, you take the forested path before descending a stiff path to Bamboo. From Bamboo, we The journey takes you through dense bamboo forests and along steep ridges, with the Modi Khola River roaring below. As you ascend, the vegetation becomes sparser and the landscape more rugged, with towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls creating a dramatic backdrop. You will become more aware of your altitude as you arrive in Deurali and make yourself comfortable.
Another long day ahead of us. However, it is the highlight of your trek, as you will reach the Annapurna Base Camp. After leaving Deurali, the trail goes along Modi Riverside before reaching a vast pastureland towered by giant hills. You will see hundreds of mountaain goats and sheep grazing across this pastureland. Walking past pastureland, you climb a giant hill before reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). The hike from MBC continues through alpine meadows and glacial moraines, with the peaks of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare dominating the skyline. As you approach ABC, the landscape opens up into a natural amphitheater, surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world.
Wake up to an amazing sunrise over the glorious Annapurna massif. Admire the glistening vistas of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, II, Machhapuchhre, Tharpu-Chuli, and more before getting ready to descend back to Bamboo. As you descend, you will notice the amazing vistas becoming distant, but the tranquil setting of the surroundings will keep you mesmerized. Bamboo, nestled amidst dense forests, offers a peaceful ambiance for you to rest.
Today's trek leads you from Bamboo to Jhinu Dada, a village renowned for its natural hot springs. The journey begins with a steep ascent before following a forested path to upper Sinuwa. From there, the trail descends to lower Sinuwa and continues to the picturesque village of Chhomrong. After a final descent from Chhomrong to Jhinu Dada, a short walk brings you to the roadhead, where a vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Pokhara. Enjoy the scenic drive as you bid farewell to the rural villages and return to the peaceful ambiance of Pokhara.
After a leisurely morning in Pokhara, you will catch a flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you have the rest of the day to explore the city, do some last-minute shopping, or simply relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the capital.
On your departure day, one of our team members will meet you at your hotel approximately 3 hours before your flight time. He will assist you to the airport for your onward journey. With hopes of meeting again for another adventure in the Himalayas, our team bids you farewell and wishes you a safe journey back home.
