From Pokhara: 7 Days Annapurna Basecamp Trek
ID: GYG558105-958092
Category:
Country: Nepal
Duration:
7 days
Description
Trekkers experience diverse landscapes, lush forests, and reach the base camp surrounded by towering peaks, including the majestic Annapurna I.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a renowned trekking destination in the Himalayas, situated in the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range, including the iconic Annapurna Massif and Machapuchare. The journey takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, from terraced fields and rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and high-altitude terrain. The base camp itself is surrounded by towering peaks, creating a stunning amphitheater of snow-capped mountains. Trekkers often experience the rich local culture, encountering Gurung and Magar communities along the way. The trek typically starts from Nayapul and passes through charming villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong before reaching the majestic Annapurna Base Camp. It's a popular trekking route, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and the thrill of reaching a high-altitude destination.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Pokhara to Nayapul to Ghandruk
The trek starts at Nayapul, a small town by the Modi River, about two hour's drive from Pokhara. From Nayaul, you'll hike through green hills and terraced fields, passing small villages and seeing the local lifestyle. The trail goes through dense forests with rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, sometimes in full bloom. You'll hear birds singing and may spot some wildlife.
As you climb higher, you'll see the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. The scenery of mountains, valleys, and rivers changes constantly, leaving you amazed.
As you reach the picturesque village of Ghandruk, you will be welcomed with traditional stone houses and warm hospitality from the Gurung community. The village offers incredible views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains.
The route has suspension bridges over rivers, adding excitement to the trek. It's well-maintained, suitable for different fitness levels.
Driving time: 3 hours (from Pokhara)
Walking time: 1 hour
Total Distance: around 12-14 kilometers
Altitude: 2,020 metres
Difficulty level: Easy
Main attractions for the day: Ghandruk village, Gurung Museum
Mountains viewed: Annapurna South, Himchuli, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhre, etc.
Day 2:
Ghandruk to Chhomrong to Sinuwa
The day begins with a peaceful morning in Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village with terraced fields and cozy stone houses. You'll walk through lush green forests with rhododendron and oak trees as you head towards Chhomrong. Chhomrong village sits on a ridge and offers a different landscape.
As you approach Chhomrong, the landscape changes, and the village comes into view, perched on a ridge. After a brief rest in Chhomrong, you'll begin the ascent towards Sinuwa. The trail takes you through dense bamboo forests, adding an ethereal feel to the journey. The forests are teeming with various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of some wildlife, such as langurs or macaques, amid the foliage.
As you continue your ascent, you'll cross a suspension bridge over the Chhomrong Khola, which offers a thrilling experience as the bridge sways gently with each step.
The trail then leads you through more dense forests, and as you climb higher, the views of the mountains become even more majestic. The landscape is dominated by snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and green valleys.
Finally, you'll reach Sinuwa, a small village located amidst the forested hills. Stay overnight at Sinuwa.
Walking time: 6 to 7 hours
Altitude: 2,340 meters
Total distance: Around 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Main attractions for the day: Chhomrong village, Komrong Khola
Day 3:
Sinuwa to Bamboo to Dovan to Himalaya to Deurali
After walking for a couple of hours departing from Sinuwa, you'll reach the village of Bamboo, nestled in the heart of the forest. Bamboo is an excellent spot for a short break, where you can refuel with some local snacks and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
From Bamboo, the trail starts to ascend gradually, following the course of the Modi Khola (river). As you trek further, you'll pass through Dovan, a small settlement surrounded by dense rhododendron and oak forests. The sound of the river flowing beside the trail creates a soothing soundtrack for the hike.
The trail continues to gain elevation, and the scenery changes as you approach the Himalaya and Deurali. The terrain becomes more rugged, and you'll notice the tree line starts to thin out. The views of the Annapurna South and Hiunchuli peaks become more clear.
Upon reaching Deurali, you'll be rewarded with a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains, including the intimidating Annapurna I.
You'll stay in comfortable lodges to rest and recharge for the next day's adventure.
Walking time: 6 to 7 hours
Altitude: 3,200 meters
Total Distance: around 10-12 kilometers
Difficulty level: Moderate
Main attractions for the day: Bamboo forest
Day 4:
Deurali to MBC to Annapurna Base Camp
The ABC short trek trail starts from Deurali, from where you'll gradually leave the forested area behind, and the landscape opens up to stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains.
The route from Deurali to MBC is relatively steep, taking you through rocky terrains and moraines. As you climb higher, the air becomes thinner, and you may feel the altitude's effects.
Once you reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), you'll be amazed by the amphitheater of snow-capped peaks surrounding you. The Machhapuchhre (6997m) stands tall, and the Annapurna range dominates the skyline.
From MBC, you'll continue your trek towards Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). This portion of the trail takes you along the glacier moraine and can be a bit challenging due to the rocky terrain.
As you finally reach the Annapurna Base Camp, you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree panorama of some of the world's highest peaks, including Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and other neighboring summits.
After spending some quality time at the Base Camp, take the time to reflect on the journey so far and capture these precious memories in photographs.
Finally, as the sun starts to set, you'll retire to your lodge for a well-deserved rest, surrounded by the serenity of the mountains under the starry night sky.
Walking time: 5 to 6 hours
Altitude: 4,130 meters
Total distance: around 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Main attractions for the day: Glacier Dom, Gangapurna, Gandharva Chuli
Mountains viewed: Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Annapurna III
Day 5:
Annapurna Base Camp to MBC to Deurali to Himalayan to Dovan to Bamboo
The day begins early in the morning at the Annapurna Base Camp, where you will get to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayan peaks. After breakfast, you will bid farewell to the majestic mountains and begin their descent through the diverse landscapes of the region.
The trail from ABC to MBC is relatively short but offers incredible views of the fishtail-shaped Machapuchare peak and other surrounding mountains. The trek continues through a mix of rhododendron and bamboo forests, adding a splash of colors to the journey.
As you continue to descend, the scenery changes, and the lush greenery of the forest becomes more apparent. The trail takes them through picturesque landscapes dotted with waterfalls, rocky terrains, and occasional mountain streams.
Upon reaching Deurali, you can take a short break and enjoy a hearty lunch. The trek then continues to Himalayan, where the landscape becomes more rugged and adventurous. The trail meanders through narrow gorges and glacial riverbeds, providing a thrilling experience for trekkers.
As the day progresses, you will reach Dovan, a small settlement nestled amidst the mountains. from there,you will head towards Bamboo, where the altitude decreases, and the air becomes warmer. Stay overnigt and enjoy delicious traditional food.
Walking time: 6 to 7 hours
Altitude: 2,340 meters
Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult
Main attractions for the day: Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya, Dovan, and Bamboo
Mountains viewed: Annapurna I, Barahi Shikhar, Tent Peak, Annapurna South, Himchuli, Gandharva Chuli, and sunrise
Day 6:
Bamboo to Sinuwa to Chhomrong to Jhinu to Kyumi
The day begins early in the morning, as you leave Bamboo and make your way towards Sinuwa. The trail gradually ascends through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of the magnificent Annapurna South and Hiunchuli peaks.
As you continue your trek from Sinuwa, you'll reach the beautiful village of Chhomrong. Then you'll descend towards Jhinu, which is a highlight of the day. Jhinu is famous for its natural hot springs, which are a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after several days of trekking.
After spending some time at the hot springs, you'll continue your trek towards Kyumi. The trail winds through terraced fields, dense forests, and charming traditional villages, offering a glimpse into the rural life of the region.
Upon reaching Kyumi, have delicious food and est for the day
Walking time: 4 to 5 hours
Altitude: 1,690 metres
Total distance: Around 14-15 kilometers
Difficulty level: moderate
Main attractions for the day: Jhinu Dada, Chhomrong Village, hot spring
Day 7:
Kyumi to Siwai to Nayapul to Pokhara
The day begins with a descent from Kyumi, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. As you make your way to Siwai, you'll pass through picturesque terraced fields, where locals may be seen working on their farms.
From Siwai, the trail takes you through more charming villages, and you'll be immersed in the warm hospitality of the locals. The landscape gradually changes as you leave the forested areas and approach Nayapul. You might encounter trekkers who are just starting their journey into the mountains, and this section of the trek is a wonderful opportunity to share experiences and stories.
From Nayapul, you will drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight at a hotel and enjoy the evening.
Altitude: 822 meters
Walking time: 3 to 4 hours
Driving time: 3 hours (to Pokhara)
Total Distance: Around 12-15 kilometers
Attraction of the day: lush valleys, passing through charming villages and experiencing the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna region.
