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The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is one of the most required trekking journeys at the heart of the great Annapurna Mountains. This impressive and excellent 10-day Himalayan journey, open to travellers from 1956 onwards, offers an acceptable window of opportunity to experience the varied ecosystems and unparalleled natural beauty of the great Annapurna region. The trail's full depth and elevation will be seen in the fascinating range of landscapes, from terraced leveled farmlands and lush green valleys to the rugged alpine terrains surrounding peaks. As you go on, the breathtaking views of snow-clad mountain ranges like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri become increasingly mesmerizing, offering unforgettable vistas of the great Himalayas.
The trek is more than just a glory and a balm for the eyes—it is the cultural and spiritual greatness. Along the route, you will encounter lush and green-filled rhododendrons and bamboo forests teeming with whole life and sacred sites revered by thousands of Buddhists and Hindu pilgrims, including the Annapurna Sanctuary. Highlights of the journey are the awe-inspiring sunrise view through Poon Hill, where the first rays of the sun brighten up the snow-tipped peaks, and scenic drives along the peaceful calm waters of Marshyangdi and Trishuli rivers. This trek is also harmonious with adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it a refined and immemorial journey for trekking lovers and nature fans.
Expand Details Collapse DetailsAfter a hearty breakfast, we leave the hotel to set out for Pokhara. This will be a fun scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway which will take around six hours. We will visit important places like Phewa Lake, Davis Fall and then stay overnight in a hotel in Pokhara. This is inclusive of breakfast.
We head to Nayapul via a car or taxi. We walk towards Ghandruk en route Birathati. This will take around four or five hours along the steep hilly path. We can witness amazing views of Himchuli, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South from Ghandruk. We stay overnight at a guest house.
We move across the Kumrong Danda to get to Chhomrong with few ups and downs. Chhomrong is rich in natural beauty and a distinct lifestyle. Overnight stay in Chhomrung.
On this day, we descend to Bamboo, moving down on 2500 stone steps. We cross a bridge over the Chhomrong Khola. And we gradually climb uphill to reach Sinuwa. From Sinuwa, we walk through a beautiful, lush green jungle to reach Kuldihar from where we descend to Bamboo. Overnight stay at Bamboo.
We walk along a bamboo jungle and then ascend across a steep area. After we cross Himalaya hotel, we move through dense forests and then get out of it enjoying the views of the glistening sun and the beautiful glacial river below.
We ascend up through a dry forest before we step on Hinku cave. The trail moves closer to a river before we move to Deurali. This is a place rich in scenic, natural beauty. This place has to offer amazing views of the valley, pristine river, and rocky lands along with waterfalls. Overnight stay at Deurali.
Our journey begins with a challenging ascent along the river and a steep trail at the mountainside, taking us through the Bagar at the fine Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The trek gives stunning views of the mountain Machhapuchhre and other peaks like Annapurna I and III, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the majestic Gandharvachuli, creating a breathtaking backdrop at the fine climb. As we move on, the lush vegetation fades, giving way to the calm, infinite beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Reaching the Annapurna Base Camp, we will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of snow-clad mountains surrounding us in every direction. The experience of standing amidst the towering Himalayan peaks is genuinely a memorial. After soaking in the mesmerizing views, we rest for the night at the great Annapurna Base Camp, ready to soak in the tranquility of this remarkable high-altitude-covered haven.
We move back to Bamboo on this day. We mostly descend and the trek on this day will not be very cumbersome. Moreover, we will feel relaxed at the sight of the marvelous scenery. Overnight stay at Bamboo.
We have an uphill climb to Kuldighar after which we ascend to Chhomrong Khola. We then climb up the stone steps to reach Chhomrong. We descend to Jhinu Danda where we stay overnight.
We can savor the hot springs which are located 15 to 20 minutes away from Jhinu Danda. Overnight stay at Jhinu Danda.
On this day, we move to Naya Pul. We have lunch on the way. From, Naya Pul, w head to Pokhara and stay overnight in Pokhara.
This is the final day of our adventure; we head back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. You will be transferred to your hotel in Pokhara upon reaching.
Along with the spectacular scenery, Annapurna Base Camp trek is a great opportunity to witness the distinct Gurung culture, explore the museums and monasteries of the region. You will see colorful prayer wheels on your way, walk over suspension bridges and taste delicious food in the evenings. You will meet fellow travelers with whom you can interact and even accompany in the journey.
The best time to take this journey is from March to June and September to December.
You can prepare by involving in activities like swimming, cycling, hiking and walking a lot. Make sure you can at least five hours a week three months before you take up this trek. Look for hills and tall buildings to walk up and down.
Altitude sickness can be a problem while trekking so it is important that you trek slowly and watch out for the symptoms of altitude mountain sickness like sleeplessness, headaches, loss of appetite, dizziness, and breathlessness. Diamox is a medication that can be used for treatment but if symptoms persist, you should better get downhill.
Note that it is better to eat Daal Bhaat as it is healthy as well as safe. This dish is a great option for energy and protein. There is a Nepali saying which says- “Daal Bhaat” power equals twenty-four hour.
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