Addres:

Thamel - Kathmandu - Nepal

E-mail:

info@alpinistclub.com

Contact No:

+977 9843603583

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Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Informaion

Max. Elevation: 4100m
Best Season: Spring-autumn-winter
Duration: 14 Days
Trip Grading: Easy
Activity: Trekking
Transport: private vehicle
Accommodation: Hotel- Lodge
Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner
Availability Status: Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner

Highlight

Experience the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, a stunning journey through rhododendron forests, Gurung villages, and glacial valleys to Annapurna Base Camp. Enjoy 360° Himalayan views and unforgettable high-altitude scenery in the heart of Nepal.

The Classic Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Via Poon Hill

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, a breathtaking 50-kilometer-long Himalayan massif, is named after the Hindu goddess of fertility, harvest, and abundance. Its highest peak, Annapurna I (8,090 m), was the first 8,000-meter mountain ever climbed, making it a historic icon in mountaineering

Spectacular sunrise views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Scenic trails through rhododendron forests and terraced villages
Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m for 360° mountain panoramas
Experience rich Gurung and Magar culture along the trail
Ideal trek for adventure seekers and photographers

Overview

Annapurna Base Camp: A Trek of Forests, Villages & Glacial Valleys

At the heart of the region lies the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, a natural amphitheater at the foot of the Annapurna South Glacier. Surrounded by towering peaks, glacial streams, and alpine meadows, the sanctuary offers some of the most spectacular high-mountain scenery in Nepal. The area carries a rare high-altitude charm, reminiscent of the Everest region, yet it remains peaceful and less crowded, providing a truly immersive Himalayan experience.

Historically, the Annapurna sanctuary trek served as the base camp for the British expedition that conquered Annapurna South in 1970 and was the last resupply point for climbers on the challenging south face. Today, trekkers approach the sanctuary via the iconic “balcony trails”, which pass through terraced villages, rhododendron forests, and panoramic viewpoints. A highlight of the trek is Poon Hill, where sunrise illuminates the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in a dazzling display.

Reaching the Annapurna sanctuary trek itself is a journey into the heart of the Himalayas. From here, the scale and grandeur of Annapurna’s peaks become fully apparent, offering a legendary backdrop for adventure and photography alike. Whether you’re a trekker seeking a high-altitude challenge or a traveler chasing breathtaking landscapes, the Annapurna Sanctuary promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Itinerary

DAY1: ARIVE IN KATHMANDU

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our local team warmly welcomes you at the airport. You will then be escorted to the hotel, where you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. The itinerary includes a briefing about the trek's progress and presentation, followed by leisure time. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have the entire day at your disposal. This can be used for rest or for those interested in exploring the surroundings freely. It's an ideal chance to experience Nepalese culture and indulge in the local culinary delights.

Transport: Private vehicle
Altitude: 1,300 m
Meals: Lunch – not included, Dinner – not included
Accommodation: Hotel (2 nights)

DAY 2: DRIVE T0 BIRETHANTI

Early morning drive to Nayapul, then trek along a track beside the Modi Khola to reach Birethanti.

Transport: Private vehicle / Trekking
Duration: 8 hours
Altitude: 1,020 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 3:TREKKING FROM BIRETHANTI TO ULLERI

Walk through verdant rice paddies to reach Hile village, home to Brahman and Gurung communities. Continue trekking through lush bamboo forests to Tikhedhunga (1,540 m), then ascend a series of stone steps leading to Ulleri, a charming mountain village with spectacular views of the surrounding hills.

Duration: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: +940 m
final Altitude: 1,960 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 4: TREKKING FROM ULLERI TO GHOREPANI

Today’s trek takes you through Banthanti (2,210 m) and into lush rhododendron forests along the Bhurungdi Khola. You will arrive at Ghorepani, which means “water of the horses,” a picturesque village renowned for the Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint, where you’ll witness a stunning Himalayan sunrise the next morning.

Duration: 5 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +950 m / -50 m
Final Altitude: 2,860 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY5 : TREKKING GHOREPANI - POON HILL -TADAPANI

Start the day with an early morning climb to Poon Hill (3,195 m) to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. After sunrise, descend and continue trekking through rhododendron forests, crossing a scenic pass at 2,990 m, before arriving at Tadapani, meaning “distant waters,” a serene village nestled in the mountains.

Duration: 8 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +500 m / -900 m
Altitude: 2,630 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 6: TREKKING FROM TADAPANI - CHOMRONG

Today, you leave the Annapurna Balcony trail and follow the Annapurna Sanctuary route. The trek descends through scenic forests to Kimrong (1,800 m) before climbing to Chomrong, a charming village whose name means “hidden village” in the Gurung language. Nestled in the mountains, Chomrong offers stunning views and a glimpse into local Gurung culture.

Duration: 5 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +600 m / -900 m
Altitude: 2,200 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 7: TREKKING FROM CHOMRONG - DOBAN - HIMALAYA HOTEL

Trek through the Modi Khola gorge, navigating a series of ascents and descents amid bamboo and oak forests. Along the way, pass the ACAP Kuldhigar checkpoint (2,540 m), the village of Bamboo (2,310 m), a small temple, a picturesque waterfall, and Doban (2,510 m). The day concludes at Himalaya Village, a serene stopover surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery.

Duration: 8 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,100 m / -500 m
Altitude: 2,800 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 8: TREKKING FROM HIMALAYA HOTEL - MACHAPUCHARE BASE CAMP

Trek along the right bank of the Modi River, passing through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and rocky scree slopes. Continue past Deurali (3,230 m) and Bagar (3,250 m), where you can enjoy stunning views of Gangapurna. Cross a short moraine section before descending to Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m). From here, marvel at the spectacular peaks of Machapuchare (6,997 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m), surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

Duration: 5 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,200 m / -300 m
Altitude: 700 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 9: TREKKING MACHAPUCHARE BASE CAMP - ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

Trek into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. For those feeling adventurous and fit, there’s an optional crossing of the Black Glacier, offering a close-up experience of the glacier’s rugged terrain. Along the way, enjoy incredible views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and alpine landscapes, making this a truly unforgettable high-altitude adventure.

Duration: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: +450 m
Altitude: 4,150 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 10: TREKKING ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY - DOBAN

Admire sunrise over the peaks, then descend towards the Modi Khola valley. Surrounded by Hiunchuli, Machapuchare, and Mardi Himal.

Duration: 7 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +300 m / -1,850 m
Altitude: 2,550 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 11: TREKKING FROM DOBAN -CHOMRONG

Descend along the Modi River, witnessing a dramatic change in the landscape. The trail transitions from sparse evergreen vegetation to lush, humid forests filled with cedars, rhododendrons, and bamboo, offering a vibrant glimpse of the region’s rich biodiversity as you make your way back to Chomrong.

Duration: 6 hours
Altitude Gain/Loss: +700 m / -1,080 m
Altitude: 2,210 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 12: TREKKING FROM CHOMRONG - GANDRUNG

Trek to Taglung junction, passing potato and wheat fields and walking through forested plateaus to Kimrong. Continue with a descent and climb along Kumrong Danda Ridge (2,220 m), then cross Kyuri Khola (2,010 m) before arriving at the picturesque Gandrung village. Known for its traditional Gurung culture, Gandrung features temples, museums, and unique architecture. From here, enjoy spectacular views of Machapuchare (6,693 m) and Hiunchuli, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the Himalayan beauty.

Duration: 7 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: +700 m / -900 m
Altitude: 2,000 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

DAY 13: GANDRUNG - BIRETHANTI -POKHARA

Descend from Gandrung to Birethanti, where you will meet your bus for the onward transfer. Continue the journey through the scenic Pokhara Valley before returning to Kathmandu, reflecting on the incredible landscapes, villages, and Himalayan vistas you experienced along the trek.

Transport: Private vehicle
Duration: 7 hours (plus 3 hours trekking)
Altitude Gain/Loss: +200 m / -1,200 m
Altitude: 1,300 m
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner (not included)
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 14:DRIVE KATHMANDU

After breakfast, enjoy a private drive around Kathmandu for sightseeing or transfers as required. This is a flexible day for exploring the city, visiting cultural sites, or preparing for your onward journey.

Transport: Private vehicle
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 15: FINAL DEPARTURE AT TRIBHUVAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Free time depends on the departure time of your flight and our representative will drop you at the airport, ending your journey in Nepal. We hope to be of service to you again. Thank you and safe travels.

Meals: breakfast
Transportation: private car

Included

AIRPORT PICK-UP AND DROP : AIRPORT PICK-UP AND DROP :

airport to hotel transfer (pick-up and drop).

ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU :

nights' hotel (3-star category) in Kathmandu, sharing a twin bedroom on a Bed and breakfast basis.1night (3- star category) in Pokhara – sharing a twin bedroom on a Bed and breakfast basis. Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek

WELCOME DINNER : WELCOME DINNER : Welcome dinner in Kathmandu at a Nepali restaurant with cultural dance.

SPECIAL PERMIT : SPECIAL PERMIT :

Annapurna Sanctuary trek, restricted permit.

PERMITS ALL NECESSARY PAPERWORK : PERMITS ALL NECESSARY PAPERWORK :

Annapurna conservation area permit, TIMS card, and conservation entry fee.

FOOD & LODGING : FOOD & LODGING :

Food 3 meals a day (BLD, including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at the hotel/lodge during the trek.

STAFF INSURANCE : STAFF INSURANCE :

Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.

MEMBER LUGGAGE : MEMBER LUGGAGE :

Up to 15kg per member for personal Baggage during the trek carried by porters.

STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE :

All Nepalese staff and porters' daily wages, salary, equipment, food, and clothing.

GUIDE LEADER : GUIDE LEADER :

Leads the entire team, manages safety and logistics.

ASSISTANT GUIDE : ASSISTANT GUIDE :

Supports the leader and helps clients on the trail and sets the camp.

COOK : COOK :

Prepares all meals on camping treks.

KITCHEN BOYS : KITCHEN BOYS :

Assists the cook with food prep and carries kitchen equipment.

PORTER : PORTER : 2 trekkers:1 porter during trek. Carries trekking gear and supplies.

MEDICAL KIT : MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive medical kit for members and staff.

EXTRA : EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.

Excluded

INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE :

International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu)

NEPAL VISA FEES :

Nepal Visa fee is US$ 40 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days, US$ 100).

LUNCH & DINNER :

Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara (also in case of early return from trekking than the scheduled itinerary.

EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU :

Extra nights' accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival, or extra night accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.

PERSONAL EXPENSES :

Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT :

Clothing, packing Items or Bag, personal medical kit, personal trekking gears, etc.

TOILETRIES :

Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers

FILMING :

Special Filming, Camera, and drone permit fee

TIPS :

Tipping is a culture in Nepal and is expected by your staff (guides, porters, drivers)

EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.

Trip Organization

Your Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:

The Guide Leader (Sirdar): is responsible for and leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often, he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
The Assistant Guide: is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
The Porter: is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid.
Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
( from 4 people of the group of trekkers: we will provide 1 Leader Guide, 1 Assistant Guide, and 2 porters ). Nepalese teams depend on the Number of Clients and the area of trekking

Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person:

For Lodge (tea house) Accommodations trek:15 kg maximum;

Additionally, the Alpinist Club ensures that insurance is provided for the guide and porters. They are also equipped with specific gear for crossing high-altitude passes.

Accommodations in Kathmandu

In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:

Hotel Himalayan Suite: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.

Meal in Kathmandu: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a welcome dinner is provided on the first evening. Similarly, upon return from the expedition, a farewell meal is provided. In the cities, many small (or large) restaurants allow us to discover the typical local cuisine.

Accommodation And Meals during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For lodge accommodation: during the Annapurna Base camp Trek, you will stay in the lodge or Tea House with twin shared bedrooms.

Meal in during the trek: for this trek Meals are prepared by the Lodge's cook and Served in the dining room.

Here is a typical one-day menu:

Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee. During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
Water: We provide water purification tablets. and recommended to bring refilling bottles with purified water. Avoid buying mineral water due to its environmental impact.

Physical level in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

This program is designed for those who exercise regularly, especially in endurance activities. You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. The trek lasts 14 days, with daily hikes of 6 to 7 hours and altitude changes between 400 m and 1,350 m.

Preparation for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.

Medical check-up before going to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Being in good health is essential to fully enjoy your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.

Acute Mountain Sickness

This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.

Group size for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The group is composed of 1 to 10 participants. The number of participants is voluntarily limited to allow a better immersion, to not embarrass our hosts, to develop spaces of freedom and to allow a great flexibility of operation. However, the maximum number can be exceeded in the case where the last person who registers wishes to travel with another or several other people. The services will not be modified and the conditions of the trip will be identical as a result.

Personal Equipment for Trekking

Personal equipment is not provided, but a complete list will be shared later. We will refine the list with you during the preparation days and up until departure based on your questions.

High-altitude sleeping bags and quality down jackets are costly items you may not use often. We offer these specific items for rent during the trek. You must return the equipment clean and in good condition, with a deposit required.

Safety During The Trek

Safety has always been our top priority at Alpinist. Our team of expert guides is dedicated to leading a fun and successful climb while ensuring safety remains uncompromised. We plan carefully, considering daily weather forecasts and paying diligent attention as we venture into high altitudes. Throughout the journey, we carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear.

FAQ's

1. How difficult is the Annapurna Sanctuary/ABC Trek? :

The trek is considered moderate, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Daily walking ranges from 5–7 hours, with some steep sections but no technical climbing.

2. What is the highest altitude on this trek? :

The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,549 ft)

3. How many days does the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek take? :

Typically 8-14 days, depending on the route, trekking pace, and acclimatization days.

4. When is the best time to do the ABC Trek? :

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies, stable weather, and great mountain views.