Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 7 Days

Departure from Pokhara
The journey typically begins in Pokhara. Before embarking on your drive to Ghandruk, it's essential to ensure that you've made all the necessary preparations for your trek, including acquiring permits and confirming your itinerary with your trekking company or guide.

Drive to Nayapul (approx. 1-1.5 hours)
Your first destination is Nayapul. The drive from Pokhara to Nayapul takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Along the way, you'll pass through the scenic countryside, observing terraced fields, traditional villages, and the backdrop of the Annapurna Mountains.

Briefing and Permits
Upon reaching Nayapul, your trekking guide will conduct a brief orientation, providing essential information about the trek, safety measures, and the day's plan. At this point, you will also obtain the necessary trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Trek Commencement
After completing the formalities and preparations in Nayapul, you'll set out on your trek towards Ghandruk. The trail initially follows a flat and well-maintained road, offering easy walking and stunning views of the surrounding hills and rice terraces. 

Ascending to Ghandruk
The trail gradually ascends as you leave the valley floor and enter lush forests. You'll encounter quaint villages along the way. Depending on your pace, it may take around 5-6 hours of trekking to reach Ghandruk from Nayapul.

Natural Scenery and Cultural Encounters
As you ascend further, you might meet local villagers, observe their traditional houses, and enjoy their warm hospitality. Ghandruk is known for its picturesque stone houses and intricate terraced fields, offering a glimpse into the traditional Gurung way of life.

Arrival in Ghandruk
Upon arriving in Ghandruk, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountains. This charming village is set against a backdrop of towering peaks, providing a stunning setting for your overnight stay.

Evening in Ghandruk
After settling into your accommodation, you can take a leisurely stroll around the village, interact with the locals, and explore the surrounding area. As the day turns into night, enjoy a hearty dinner at the teahouse while taking in the peaceful ambiance of the village.

Overnight Stay in Ghandruk
Your overnight stay in Ghandruk provides a well-deserved rest before continuing your Annapurna Base Camp Trek. 

Morning in Ghandruk
You'll wake up in the picturesque village of Ghandruk. After a hearty breakfast at your teahouse or lodge, you'll be ready to start your day's trek.

Departure from Ghandruk
The trekking trail to Sinuwa begins with a gradual descent from Ghandruk. As you leave the village, you'll cross a suspension bridge over the Modi Khola (river), and the trail continues to ascend and descend as you journey deeper into the Annapurna region.

Lush Forests and Terraced Fields
You'll also pass by terraced fields, where local farmers cultivate crops like rice, millet, and maize. These landscapes offer incredible photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the traditional farming practices of the region.

Village Stops
During your trek, you will pause  either at Tadapani or Chuile/ Kimrong. These villages provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people and offer teahouses or small restaurants where you can take a break,have a meal, enjoy some refreshments, and interact with fellow trekkers.

Ascending to Sinuwa
The trail gradually ascends as you leave the lower valleys behind and make your way toward Sinuwa. The trekking duration from Ghandruk to Sinuwa typically takes 6-7 hours, with several rest stops along the way.

Spectacular Views
Throughout the trek, you'll have opportunities to admire the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Arrival in Sinuwa
As you arrive, you'll find a range of teahouses and lodges offering comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Enjoy a warm meal, chat with fellow trekkers, and savor the tranquility of the forested surroundings.

Overnight Stay in Sinuwa
Your overnight stay in Sinuwa provides a peaceful rest after a day of trekking. The lodges in Sinuwa typically offer cozy rooms with warm blankets and basic amenities, ensuring a comfortable night's sleep.

Morning in Sinuwa
You'll start your day in the tranquil village of Sinuwa. After a hearty breakfast at your teahouse or lodge, you'll be ready to continue your trek.

Departure from Sinuwa
The trail from Sinuwa to Deurali begins with a gradual ascent through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as this is a prime area for spotting Himalayan birds and perhaps even the elusive red panda.

River Crossing
As you ascend, the trail leads you to a series of bridges crossing the Modi Khola, the river that flows through the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Lunch at Chhomrong
After crossing the river and climbing a series of stone staircases, you'll reach the village of Chhomrong. Here you will have a hearty meal and continue your trek.

Further Ascent
From Chhomrong, the trail continues to ascend, and you'll encounter steep stone steps leading to the higher elevation. This part of the trek may require some effort due to the incline.

Hinku Cave
One of the notable landmarks along the way is the Hinku Cave, a natural overhang in the rock face that provides a sheltered resting spot for trekkers.

Views of Machapuchare
As you ascend, you'll have opportunities to glimpse the distinctive Machapuchare (Fishtail) Mountain, which remains unclimbed and holds a special place in local folklore and traditions.

Arrival in Deurali
After a challenging but rewarding day of trekking, you'll reach Deurali. The village is surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forests, creating a peaceful and secluded atmosphere.

Overnight Stay in Deurali
Your overnight stay in Deurali offers a chance to relax and recover from the day's trek. The lodges in Deurali typically provide comfortable accommodations with warm bedding, hot meals, and basic amenities.

Morning in Deurali
You'll begin your day in Deurali. After a hearty breakfast and preparation for the day's trek, you'll set out on your adventure.

Ascending Through the Sanctuary
The trail from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp. The trail initially ascends gradually through a narrow valley, and you'll be surrounded by pristine wilderness, including dense rhododendron and bamboo forests.

Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC)
After a few hours of trekking, you'll reach Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) at an elevation of approximately 3,700 meters. This is a popular resting spot and a great place to enjoy refreshments. The close-up view of Machapuchare from here is stunning.

Modi Khola and Avalanche Prone Area
As you continue the ascent, you'll pass through an area known for avalanches and may notice debris from previous slides. Your trekking guide will ensure your safety as you pass through this section.

Spectacular Mountain Views
The trek offers continuous panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the Machapuchare. It's a great opportunity for photographs and to take in the pristine beauty of the Sanctuary.

Arrival at Annapurna Base Camp
After 5-6 hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). This is the ultimate destination of your journey, and reaching this high-altitude sanctuary is a moment of accomplishment. The base camp is surrounded by a natural amphitheater of towering peaks, with the majestic Annapurna I (8,091 meters) dominating the view.

Tea Houses and Lodges
Annapurna Base Camp is equipped with teahouses and lodges that offer warm rooms, cozy dining areas, and hot meals to refuel your energy and also provide comfortable accommodations for trekkers.  Keep in mind that the facilities at ABC are more basic compared to lower altitudes, as it's a remote location.

Breathtaking Sunset
 As the sun sets behind the mountains, the entire area is bathed in a golden hue, creating a surreal and unforgettable atmosphere.

Overnight Stay in Annapurna Base Camp
You will overnight stay at Annapurna Base Camp. Enjoy a warm meal, interact with fellow trekkers and climbers, and gaze at the starry night sky, as you're surrounded by some of the world's highest peaks.

Morning at Annapurna Base Camp:
You'll start your day at the majestic Annapurna Base Camp.After morning hearty breakfast, you'll have to prepare for the day's descent.

Departure from Annapurna Base Camp
Leaving ABC, you'll begin your descent along the same trail that brought you to the base camp. The initial part of the trek involves a steep descent, so take your time and watch your step as you navigate the rocky and sometimes slippery terrain.

Modi Khola Valley
As you descend, you'll retrace your steps through the Modi Khola valley, where you'll cross the river and continue your journey on the other side

Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC)
On your way back down, you'll pass through Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) once again. This is a great place for a rest stop, have some meal and enjoy some refreshments and take in the views of Machapuchare and the surrounding landscape.

Passing through Hinku Cave
You'll trek through the Hinku Cave, a natural overhang in the rock face that provides a sheltered resting spot.

Chhomrong
After descending further, you'll reach the village of Chhomrong. Chhomrong offers a welcome opportunity to rest, have a meal, and interact with other trekkers.

Ascending and Descending
From Chhomrong, the trail involves a series of steep ascents and descents, as you cross several valleys and ridges. This can be physically demanding, so pace yourself and take your time as you make your way downhill.

Arrival in Bamboo
After 7-8 hours of trekking, you'll reach Bamboo. The village is surrounded by lush forests and terraced fields, and it offers a peaceful and remote atmosphere.

Overnight Stay in Bamboo
Your overnight stay in Bamboo provides a well-deserved rest after a challenging day of descending from Annapurna Base Camp. The lodges in Bamboo typically offer comfortable accommodations with warm bedding and basic amenities. 

Morning in Bamboo
You'll begin your day in Bamboo. After a hearty breakfast at your teahouse or lodge, you'll prepare for the day's trek.

Departure from Bamboo
The trail from Bamboo to Ghandruk takes you through a variety of landscapes and offers a mix of uphill and downhill sections. You'll start by descending through the forested terrain before gradually ascending towards the village of Ghandruk.

Dense Rhododendron Forest
As you leave Bamboo, you'll once again pass through the enchanting rhododendron and bamboo forests, offering cool and refreshing surroundings. 

Tea Houses and Settlements
During your trek, you may pass by several smaller settlements and teahouses. You will pause for you lunch, take some rest and continue your trek.

Modi Khola Crossing
The trail takes you back to the Modi Khola valley. The views of the river and the terraced fields in the valley below create a picturesque backdrop for your trek.

Ascending to Ghandruk
After crossing the river, the trail ascends toward the village of Ghandruk.

Arrival in Ghandruk
After 6-7 hours of trekking, you'll reach Ghandruk. The village is known for its stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges, traditional stone houses, and terraced fields.

Teahouses and Lodges
You'll have the chance to relax, settle into your lodging, and explore the village in the afternoon.

Overnight Stay in Ghandruk
Your overnight stay in Ghandruk provides a well-deserved rest and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. After dinner, you will take a restfulk sleep.

Departure from Ghandruk
Your journey back to Pokhara begins in the morning after you've enjoyed your last breakfast in the charming village of Ghandruk. 

Scenic Mountain Views
As you leave Ghandruk and descend through the hilly terrain, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges. During the early morning hours, are breathtaking and provide ample opportunities for photographs.

Suspension Bridge Crossing
The route takes you through a series of suspension bridges that span the Modi Khola (river).

Drive to Nayapul
The drive back to Pokhara typically involves taking a jeep or a local bus from Nayapul. The road from Ghandruk to Nayapul offers picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, terraced fields, and traditional villages.

Rural Life and Villages
During the drive, you'll have the opportunity to observe the rural life of the region. You'll pass through villages and settlements.

Rest Stops
En route, you may make stops at small towns or teahouses for refreshments and breaks. These stops allow you to stretch your legs, enjoy local snacks, and share stories with fellow travelers.

Return to Pokhara
The drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. As you approach Pokhara, you'll notice the landscape transitioning from the rural surroundings of the Annapurna region to the more urban environment of the city.

Arrival in Pokhara:
Your journey concludes as you arrive in Pokhara. You'll be dropped off at your accommodation, and this marks the end of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Reflection and Celebration
After returning to Pokhara, take some time to reflect on your trekking adventure. Celebrate your achievements and the incredible memories you've created in the heart of the Himalayas.