Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek

Route Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek

Our Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek begins with a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. An alternative to the drive is a 30-minute short flight. Then, we will take a three-hour drive from Pokhara to Hile, our starting point for the trek. We will gradually begin climbing past small villages and terrace farms towards the large Magar village of Ulleri.

The trail from Ulleri begins to ascend gently through dense forests of rhododendrons. We will pass small villages like Banthanti and Nangethanti along the way to Ghorepani. The Ghorepani village is another beautiful Magar village that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The famous Poon Hill vantage point is an hour’s hike from the town.  From Ghorepani, we will begin our climb along the ridges into the forest trails towards Tadapani. The charming village of Deurali lies en route.

As we hike through rhododendron forests, our uphill climb gets steeper from Tadapani. We will reach the picturesque village of Chhomrong, from where we will continue ascending towards the Himalayan Hotel. Along the way, we will cross the Chomrong Khola and hike through bamboo forest. From here, our uphill climb towards Annapurna Base Camp begins. We will first encounter the Machhapuchre Base Camp, right below Mount Machhapuchre. The Annapurna Sanctuary starts from here.

After a two-hour hike, we will finally reach Annapurna Base Camp. Massive mountains surround the base camp, and you can enjoy stunning sunrise and sunset views amidst the spectacular views of glistening snow-capped mountains. You can see the peaks of Annapurna ranges, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre, Hiunchuli, and more. Descending from the base camp is more effortless than ascending. We will trek down to Bamboo Village and then to Jhinu Danda. There is a natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda where you can dip and relax your sore muscles. Then, we will descend to Nayapul, where we will drive back to Pokhara and then back to Kathmandu.

Difficulty of Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek is among the moderately challenging treks that require good health and fitness. The trek is suitable for experienced or beginner trekkers and has no age restriction. It is more straightforward than other popular treks like Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek. One of the factors that makes this trek difficult is its physically demanding trails. Trekkers have to climb on steep and narrow paths while climbing up and down on varied terrains. The paths are uneven, rocky, and rough, getting more challenging as you ascend to higher elevations.

The high altitude is also a challenge for trekkers, especially beginners. It can cause altitude sickness without proper preparation and acclimatization. The region lacks adequate infrastructure, and accommodations are only basic. Aside from the physical challenges, the trek is also mentally demanding. Hence, trekkers must make sufficient preparations for the trek. Undertaking exercises and training, researching the routes, and setting realistic expectations can help trekkers overcome the difficulty of the Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek.

Best Time For Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek is doable all year round. But spring and autumn have the best weather and climate for the best trekking experience. The trek is possible during summer and winter, but the harsh weather makes it more challenging. Take a look at a brief about each season and its weather conditions:

Spring (March to May)

The warm weather and clear spring skies make it one of the best times for trekking and touring in Nepal. The temperature is moderate, and the average temperature at the Annapurna Base Camp is between 8 and 0 degrees Celsius. Spring is a dry season, as there is minimal rainfall.

Trekkers can enjoy the beautiful scenery and mountain views without any obstructions. Moreover, the rhododendron forests all over the country are in full bloom. Trek through these enchanting, blooming forests while breathing the fresh mountain and spring air.

Summer (June To August)

The summer season is characterized by hot and humid weather with heavy rainfall. With summer, the monsoon season also enters the country. Hence, most hilly areas of Nepal receive a lot of rain. It causes the trails to get wet, muddy, and slippery. There is also an increased risk of landslides, mudslides, and floods.

Similarly, heavy rain clouds can obstruct the view and scenery. Summer is not ideal for trekking due to heavy rain and slippery trails. The average daytime temperature is 10 to 23 degrees Celsius, while the nighttime temperature is 5 to 10 degrees Celsius.

Autumn (September to November)

The rainfall slowly ceases as the autumn season begins. There can be a little rain during early autumn, but the weather gradually dries as the season progresses. Autumn is marked by crisp air, clear weather, and mild temperatures. The rainfall from the prior month leaves the landscapes and vegetation vibrant and fresh.

Moreover, the autumn foliage paints the surroundings red, brown, and orange. Its perfect and comfortable weather and climate make autumn a peak season for trekking. The daytime temperature is between 10 and 23 degrees Celsius, while the nighttime temperature is 5 to 10 degrees Celsius.

Winter (December to February)

As the winter season the temperature gradually begins to drop as the winter season begins. The daylight becomes shorter, and it starts to become chilly. There is warm sunlight during the daytime, but the temperature plunges at night and in the morning. There are heavy snowfalls and blizzards at higher altitudes. It increases the risk of avalanches and blockage of mountain passes.

The temperature at the Annapurna Base Camp can drop below -10 degrees Celsius, while the daytime temperature is around 6 degrees Celsius. However, trekking in winter offers a unique perspective of the landscapes. Trekkers can enjoy the grand view of the majestic mountain vistas and snow-covered landscapes. Many experienced trekkers prefer winter for a thrilling experience.

Document & Paperwork For Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek

Visa

All foreigners except for Indian nationals must obtain Nepal visas for trekking and touring in Nepal. Hence, those wanting to take the Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek must first have a valid visa. Travelers can get the visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Those traveling on land can get their visas at the immigration office at the border checkpost. For the visa, travelers must have at least six months remaining on the passport. The visa fee can vary depending on the duration of your stay. They are as follows:

• 15 days: USD 30
• 30 days: USD 50
• 90 days: USD 125

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude treks like the Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek. All trekkers must have insurance that covers altitudes above 4000 meters, medical expenses, including altitude-related sickness, emergency expenses such as helicopter rescue and evacuation, luggage loss/ damage, and trip postponement/ cancellation.

Trekkers must provide insurance to their trekking agency before they venture. The agency will use your travel insurance to provide immediate support in emergencies or other cases.

Permits

The Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek requires the following licenses:

TIMS Card

The Trekkers Information Management System card, or TIMS card, is mandatory for trekking in almost all regions of Nepal. It registers the personal details, emergency contact number, trek itinerary, and trek details of trekkers, which is crucial to ensure their safety. It is especially vital to search for the whereabouts of the trekkers during natural disasters and calamities.

The TIMS card fees are as follows:

• SAARC nationals (Individual): NPR 600
• SAARC nationals (Group): NPR 300
• Non-SAARC nationals (Individual): NPR 1000
• Non-SAARC nationals (Group): NPR 2000

ACAP

The Annapurna Sanctuary Base Camp Trek routes fall within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The area protects numerous flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species, and the region’s cultural sites and heritage. Hence, trekkers must obtain a permit to access the area.

The fees for ACAP are as follows:

• SAARC nationals: NPR 1000
• Non-SAARC nationals: NPR 3000