(3 Reviews)
Duration: 14 Days
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Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is an untamed place that is surrounded by giant Annapurna Mountains on all sides, co-sequencing a natural biome that is unlike anything else in the country. And the trek takes you into the adventure lying deep in the heart of the pleasant Annapurna region. Besides the obvious spell-binding natural beauty of the region, the trek also traverses around the villages of the inhabiting Gurung and Magar communities.
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek has a remarkable trail that starts from the amazing lake-side city of Pokhara and goes through many ethnic Magar and Gurung villages of the region. It meanders through the sanctuary where trekkers are presented with natural terrains that are verdant and heavenly. At each turn of the winding trail, the trekkers can enjoy the towering views of the mountain peaks like the Machhapuchhre (6997m), the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri (8167m), Nilgiri (7061m), and many more. It is a journey that presents both the cultural and natural virtues of the region in the most exciting of ways. The journey passes through many prominent ethnic villages of the region, like Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Dovan, and Deurali among others. Moreover, trekkers also visit the vantage point of Poon Hill, one of the most famous vantage points of the Annapurna region from where the entire panorama of the Mount Annapurna massif along with its neighbouring peaks can be seen spectacularly. Likewise, trekkers also visit the village of Jhinu Danda, where naturally occurring hot springs provide respite against aching muscles. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a moderate journey that also takes trekkers to the base camp of the Annapurna Himal. It is best suited to do during the spring season, from March to May, and during the autumn season that lasts from September to December.
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek by Himalayan Recreation is a well-rounded and carefully created package that combines the best features and hallmarks of the region to present our trekkers with an experience that is filled with wonderful attributes incorporated with the best services regarding all facets of an unforgettable trekking adventure.
Mount Annapurna marks itself as the tenth highest mountain in the World. The Annapurna sanctuary trek takes you to the base camp of Mt. Annapurna surrounded by the Annapurna mountain range all along. The feeling of being encircled by Himalayan giants is something to experience at least once in a lifetime.
Annapurna sanctuary trek is one of the treks that take you closest to the Annapurna mountain range. Passing through forested trails, waterfalls, and several traditional villages as you trace your step to the base camp, you can witness magical views of the Annapurna mountain range with several other mountains.
Another main highlight of the trek is Poon Hill. Considered to be the best vantage point of the region, Poonhill offers a mesmerizing sunrise view over the mountains. Unlike other treks of the region, the Annapurna sanctuary trek combines Annapurna base camp and Poon Hill, making it a must endeavor journey.
Trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal is always pleasing to the eyes with all the magnificent views. Along with a natural happening, it is also a delightful experience for the mind and soul. As you get to learn and observe the typical village culture and lifestyle of several ethnic communities all along the trail.
Travellers should be comfortable with somewhat-demanding activities.
Narayan Baniya (nature pathfinder) and Sumir Gyawali (yoga teacher) guide me in this adventure. Actually they manage perfectly my short time and all the noisy burocratic thinks like documents or Covid control. They makes me feel safely and had care of me since the moment I reserved .. now I’m at home and still feel the power of their experience, friendship and good nature. They makes me “enter” in the Nepali lifestyle, from metropolitan Kathmandu until the top of the mountain were the vibes are soo deep. Their good vibes are compatible with all, Sumir had a clinical yogi eye and Narayan the calm you need to arrive over the clouds.. it was like a day dreaming and I never forget this experience out of time. Thank you Antonio
A great & well organised experience. I highly recommend Himalayan recreation to anyone planning to trek to the Annapurna Basecamp. Everything from start to finish was all taken care of, taking away all of the stress of organisation so that I could focus on enjoying the trek. Ashok was very responsive on whatsapp at all times and was able to adapt the tour when circumstances changed. For example, when my flight to Pokhara was cancelled, Ashok arranged for a friendly driver to take me all the way there by private car instead (I did have to wait 1.5 hours for the driver, but traffic in Kathmandu is difficult). My guide Santosh and porter Bal were very friendly and accommodating and were good company during the trek. They have the English skills required to answer the majority of questions, particularly relating to the trek. Overall, a very good experience. The trek itself is very beautiful. It has everything, including rural villages with rice terraces, bamboo forests, and epic mountains. The accommodation is basic but everything you need for a trek (much better than camping). The weather forecast is inaccurate - I enjoyed decent weather despite the forecast being constant rain/thunder. I found the difficulty to be much easier than others state, and could have completed the trek in 5-6 days. Almost anyone with a decent level of fitness would be able to complete this trek (adjusting the duration to accommodate).
The Annupurna Poon Hill Trip is a lovely trek through the lower elevations of the Annupurna range of the Himalayas. Starting from Pokhara, a 90 minute drive in a taxi drops us off at the beginning of the trek and then goes up from there. My guide, Raj, was absolutely awesome and provided a lot of great information about the area during our trek over the several days that this trek takes place. The second day of the climb takes us to the small town of Ghorepani, and then an early climb the next morning to Poon Hill. I went on this trip in the 2nd year of the virus. According to my guide, the number of travelers was still way down from pre-pandemic years. So, in one way, it is a great time to travel since you will have most of the trails to yourself. The tea houses are also pretty empty. The negative side to this is that there are limited menu items and several places didn't have WiFi. There are a few recommendations I would make about this trip. The first is the ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. I took the bus and regretted it about halfway there. While the distance is only 200 km, it took about 8 hours on the bus. If I were to do this again, I would have opted for a 30 minute flight. It costs more, but is so worth it. Second, make sure you bring toilet paper with you on the trek. The tea houses I stayed in during my trek didn't have any. So, bringing a roll of your own is a huge help. And speaking of bathrooms, most of the toilets along the route are not the western style sit-down toilets. Rather they are the hole in the grounds. So, make sure to use the bathroom before leaving the tea house since the next western-style toilet isn't until the next guest house, which could be a half day hike away. Finally, if you have time after the trek, spend an extra day in Pokhara. It is much more interesting than Kathmandu. Otherwise, the trek was wonderful and the folks at Himalayan Recreation did a great job in staying in touch, picking me up at the airport when I arrived in Nepal, and provided excellent service all the way through.
This trip was the first we took with those guys. It was very nice, guide was interesting and gave us a lot information about Bhaktapur and Nepal itself. After they arranged few more trips for us. First was Chitwan national park and jeep safari. After Pokhara and paragliding. And then return to Kathmandu. It was very helpful to have someone local there who can arrange flights, pick ups, all the activities and return wherever needed. We didn't have more time, but all the time we had, they managed to organize for us, without stressing or worrying. I truly recommend them, because they are very responsible and helpful for any situation. I firstly met them in Kathmandu for our first trip and they helped us with all the others.
Upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport at any time, you will be welcomed by one of our company’s team members who will escort you to your Hotel. There is nothing else planned for this day, so you can check into your Hotel and relax. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Things to look out for:
Meet and Greet at the airport.
Rest at the hotel.
You will have a sightseeing tour today of Kathmandu city. Specifically, you will be visiting the four major UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the city. The sites include the Pashupatinath Temple, the Swayambhunath Stupa, the Boudhanath Stupa, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square. All these sites hold religious and historical traits of the country and are built-in unique architecture and depict amazing works of art done on the stone walls, the metalwork, and the wood carvings of the buildings. After the tour, you will be transferred to the Hotel again where you will prepare for tomorrow’s trekking trip. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Sightseeing around the city.
Visit Pashupatinath temple.
Traditional Art and architecture of the city.
Keep in mind:
Today you'll be having a sightseeing tour around Kathmandu valley. You'll visit some famous landmarks and heritage sites around the city. After the sightseeing, there'll be a short briefing session about the trek.
From Kathmandu, you will catch your flight to the lake-side city of Pokhara. It is also referred to as “the tourism hub” of Nepal and is situated right beside the beautiful Phewa Lake. From Pokhara, you will begin your trek, making your way out of the city and meandering through the dense forests of pine and cedar towards the village of Ulleri. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
A short flight to Pokhara.
Panoramic view of city, hills, and mountains during the flight.
After the short flight to Pokhara, you'll begin your real trek as you move towards Ulleri. Ulleri is a small settlement in the Annapurna region filled with ethnic communities.
From Ulleri, you will have a long day of trekking upwards through the terrain today towards the famous village of Ghorepani. Forward from Ulleri lies a stone stairway to Ghorepani. Climbing up the stairs, you will then trek through the woods towards Ghorepani from where the views of the peaks like the Hiunchuli (6441m) and the Annapurna South (7219m) are just magnificent. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
A forested serene trail to Ghorepani.
Views of diverse landscape on the way.
The walk today is light and easy with few uphill stairs climb. You can enjoy the peaceful forested trail today as you move toward Ghorepani.
Today is the day you'll head toward the famous vantage point of the region, Poon Hill. You'll begin the walk early in the morning to catch the stunning sunrise from the viewpoint. After around 2 hours of uphill stairs, you'll reach the viewpoint from where you can get a majestic sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range. After enjoying the sunrise, you'll head back to Ghorepani and continue further to Tadapani through a forested trail. Overnight stay at Tadapani.
Uphill walk to Poon Hill.
Majestic sunrise view over the mountains.
360-degree view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
This is one of the main highlights day of the trek. The views seen from Poon Hill are regarded as the best 360-degree views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
From Tadapani, you will make your way through the lush woodland once again and pass a river on your way to Chhomrong. It is a traditional ethnic Gurung village from where the views of the Annapurna peaks seem to tower over like giant silver colossi. The terrain is adorned with amazing rhododendron woods and maple trees with rock-strewn boulders and pale grasslands. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Traditional Gurung village.
From here on, you'll be walking on a trail leading to the Base camp. Today you'll make your way to the traditional Gurung village of the region, Chhomrong where you can witness the traditional culture and lifestyle.
From Chhomrong, you will make your way through the lush juniper hamlets and terrains dotted with cairns and prayer flags towards the village of Bamboo. All along the journey, the views of the mountain peaks keep you company. The tall cliffs also harbour frozen waters and occasionally, you can also spot Himalayan pheasants in the woods. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Sneak-peeks of Himalayan giants on the way.
Crossing the village, you will trek on a beautiful trail uphill and downhill through the sanctuary’s lush woods and thick drapery of alpine forest towards Deurali- a dainty settlement known for its beauty and tranquil atmosphere. You can see small terrace farms here where the local people plant potatoes and buckwheat. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Lush forests and terrace farms are on the way.
It is a short and easy walk today compared to other days. You can take it easy and slow as you enjoy the trail full of forests and farms.
Above Deurali, the valley widens and the grounds are relatively flatter and less steep. Climbing up some stone stairs, you will continue along the trail gaining steady elevation as you reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. From here, the trail branches out to reach the Annapurna Base Camp, from where a 360° mountain view of peaks like the Annapurna I (8091m), the Annapurna South (7219m), Mount Machhapuchhre (6997m), and several others. Overnight stay at the Annapurna Base Camp
Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
360-degree view of the Annapurna mountain range.
Today you'll be steeping your foot on the base camp of one of the tallest mountains in the world. On the way, you'll also pass through the Machhapuchhre Base camp. The trail today is filled with scenic views of giant peaks.
From ABC, you will retrace your steps back down through the valley and follow the steadily narrowing path to reach the village of Bamboo again. The walk down is easier than the climb and the views of the mountain peaks decorate the horizon quite beautifully. You also pass Hinku cave and Dovan on the trek to Bamboo. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Mesmerizing sunrise view from the base camp.
Panoramic view of mountains.
In the morning you can witness the mesmerizing sunrise view from the base camp while being surrounded by mountains all around.
From Bamboo, you will pass through the settlement of Sinuwa and trek deeper into the valley towards the Jhinu village. At Jhinu Danda, you can also relax at the many naturally occurring hot spring that is said to have minerals laced in the water that flows through the ground and out from stone spouts. The waters of the hot spring heal and soothe aching muscles. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
A natural hot spring.
It is the last day of your walk before making your way back to the city. In the evening, you can enjoy the natural hot spring at the Jhinu danda.
From Jhinu danda, today you'll trek to Nayapul. After around 5-6 hours of walk, you'll reach Nayapul from where you'll catch a vehicle to Pokhara. It takes around an hour of drive to reach Pokhara from Nayapul. Overnight stay at Pokhara.
Scenic ride to Pokhara.
After arriving in Pokhara, you can either take a good rest or choose to stroll around the lakeside as you explore the city.
Catching your flight back to Kathmandu, you will say goodbye to the Annapurna Mountains one last time. The flight back also consists of amazing mountain views of Nepal. Upon arriving in the city, you can explore the local areas or also shop for gifts and souvenirs. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
After arriving in Kathmandu, you can go shopping around the city or rest at the hotel. As it is your final day in Nepal, you'll have a farewell dinner with our team in the evening.
Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be dropped off at the airport by one of our company’s representatives from where you will depart.
All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport transfers
Three nights in Kathmandu & One Night in Pokhara Accommodation with Breakfast at a 3-star Category Hotel
Kathmandu City Tours, including tour guide, and Private transportation
3 standard meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunches and Dinners) during the trek
Snacks of seasonal fruits during the trek
Best available twin sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek.
Domestic flights (Kathmandu to Pokhara)
Himalayan Recreation’s Experienced, Government licensed, English speaking trekking guide during the Annapurna Sanctuary trip.
Porter services and supportive staffs (1 porter = 2 trekkers).
All costs of staff which includes food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment’s and medicines.
Duffel bag use while trekking, Trekking map and trip achievement certificate
Required Annapurna Conservation Area Permit fee & TIMS Fee
First aid medicine Kit
Farewell dinner with Cultural show in a fine restaurant on second last day.
Government taxes & office service charge
Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the above itinerary
Personal Travel insurance, which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
Personal Trekking equipment or expenses
Alcoholic Drinks and Beverages.
Tips for trekking Guides and Porters (tipping is expected)
Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the 'Price Includes' section.
Best time to trek Annapurna Sanctuary
Weather is an important factor to consider while choosing your trekking destination as it plays a crucial role. Although it is possible to trek in Nepal throughout the year, trekking in different seasons offers different pros. Spring and autumn are the two seasons considered best to trek in any region of Nepal as these are the seasons offering relatively more favours.
Annapurna Sanctuary trek is best when trekked in the spring and autumn seasons. Spring and Autumn are the most suitable time to enjoy the diverse range of scenery that the region offers without much trouble. The weather is usually pleasant to clear skies during these seasons. The temperature is also average with several plants & flowers along with rhododendrons starting to bloom. Similar to the spring season, autumn is another perfect season to trek to the Annapurna region. The weather is very clear with moderate temperatures in the autumn as well. You can also try trekking in the monsoon and winter if you want a less-crowded trail. But keep in mind that trekking in these seasons can be a little difficult because of the weather and temperatures.
Food during Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Annapurna region is one of the most developed trekking regions in Nepal so, the food during the trek is simple and adjustable with several options to choose from. The menu generally includes traditional village foods that consist of traditional bread, eggs, potatoes, and soup for breakfast while lunch and dinner items include Dal Bhat (lentil soup, rice, and veggies), fried rice, noodles, etc depending on the lodge and destination. You can also get some western foods on the menu during the beginning of the trek.
Accommodation during Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
When it comes to accommodation facilities in the Annapurna region, it is simple and orderly. You can enjoy the hotel rooms with in-room showers, western-style flush toilets, a Free WIFI connection, and in-room plugs to charge your stuff at the beginning of the trek. But as you ascend to a higher elevation, electricity is scarce and you'll have to pay an extra charge for Wifi connections, and hot water showers. The rooms in higher elevation come with general facilities like warm Beds and washrooms, etc.
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Difficulty
The trekking grade or difficulty of the Annapurna sanctuary trek is moderate or Grade-B trekking. This level of treks usually involves about one to two-week-long journeys above the elevation of 3000m and below 5000m. Suitable for beginner trekkers with few hiking experiences, the trek usually involves uphill and downhill climbs in the elevation ranging from 3000-5000m. The altitude gain per day during this level of trekking can vary between 400m-700m. To beginner trekkers with little experience, it is much recommended to try this grade of trekking.
Here we have prepared the list of all necessary trekking gears & equipment for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, Most of the equipment can be purchased easily in Kathmandu. You can either buy or rent the equipment & gear. Also, don’t forget that it is very important to purchase good quality and reliable clothes and footwear as you will be facing very cold conditions on the trek. Below Here is the packing list for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek.
• Clothing -Baselayer -Insulation layer -Third layer
• General Trekking gear -Trekking trousers & shirts -Trekking shorts -Waterproof shell jacket & trousers -Underwear
• Headwear -Hat -Beanie -Neck gaiter
• Handwear & Footwear -Inner Gloves -Outer insulated gloves -Hiking boots -Trekking shoes/sandals -Hiking socks -Warm thermal socks -Gaiters
• Bag & backpackers -Duffel bag -Backpack -Day back -Raincover -Drybag
• Sleeping gear -Sleeping bag -Liner -Earplugs
• Poles & Headgear -Trekking poles -Sunglasses -Headlight
• Important accessories -Water bottle/Hydration bladder -Towel -Pee funnel -Lock -Waterproof bag
• Extra accessories -Camera -Portable charger -Books -Cards -Passport, Money
• Medications & Toiletries: Water purification tablet, Isotonic powder, Diamox, Common Medications, First aid kit, Sunscreen, Baby wipes, Toiletries, Plasters, Oximeter, Hand sanitiser.
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek usually is two weeks long, which is longer than the regular Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It can be extended as well if you want any extra side trips added to your itinerary.
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a moderate-grade trek that is relatively easier compared to other popular treks of Nepal. The Annapurna region involves shorter days of trekking, where the maximum elevation is 4,130m. Anyone with a good fitness level is capable of completing this trek. The trek doesn't require any technical expertise or mountaineering skills. However, it is a plus point if you have previous trekking experience.
In the springtime, the weather of the Annapurna Sanctuary is pretty clear and moderate with the highest temperature 14 degrees and lowest -4 degrees. Similar to spring, autumn is another clear season for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek with the highest temperature of 16 degrees and lowest -6 degrees. During the coldest time of the year, winter, the temperature can go as low as -14 to -20 degrees.
The cost for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek depends on various factors like; the accommodation, mode of transportation, and any other side trips added to the initial itinerary. In general, the cost can range anywhere from $900-$2500.
We have some of the best and most experienced guides with us. For your Annapurna sanctuary trek, you'll be guided by a remarkably professional guide/Sherpa who has been to the Annapurna sanctuary trek back and forth numerous times with pleasing communication skills and knowledge. You'll be able to learn further informative things about the mountains and culture from your guide during the trek.
You need to pack weather-friendly clothes for your Annapurna Sanctuary Trek which includes;
A pair of hiking trousers and hiking shorts.
Lightweight nylon or polyester trekking shirts.
A waterproof shell jacket and trousers.
Underwears.
Headwears.
Footwears.
Gloves.
Trekking shoes.
Rain coat
You also need to pack essential gears like;
Toiletries and first aid.
Camera & personal electronics.
Power bank.
Water bottle and filter.
Trekking poles.
Raincover.
The best time to trek Annapurna Sanctuary is during the spring season from March to May and autumn from September to November. The two seasons are the most favourable for trekking as the weather is usually very clear with a moderate temperature. You can also choose to trek in winter or summer time of the year, but you might have to face some hassle like; slippery trails and snow-filled trails during these times.
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