Annapurna Sanctuary

The mountain-ringed amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary is one of the most spectacular settings in the Himalaya, with a 360-degree panorama of snow-covered peaks including mighty Annapurna I (26,545') and the sacred “fishtail” spire of Machapuchare (22,943'). To reach this lofty realm, we hike through a dazzling range of Nepal’s landscapes, from the brilliant green terraces, bamboo groves, and rhododendron forests of Gurung country, where slate-roofed villages and welcoming teahouses dot the trail, to a stunning glacier world surrounded by Himalayan giants. Once we’re inside this dramatic mountain sanctuary, we have a memorable Exploration Day with hikes up to high ridges for out-of-this-world views.

Itinerary at a Glance

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Days 1-2
Kathmandu

We take in the extraordinary Hindu and Buddhist temples and bustling bazaars of Kathmandu.

Days 3-5
Pokhara / Modi Khola / Ghandruk / Chomro

Flying to Pokhara, we hike along the gorge of the Modi Khola, a river fed by the huge glaciers of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Our trails, often ancient stone staircases, contour along lush hillsides and rhododendron forests as we ascend to the picturesque Gurung village of Ghandruk, with its ochre-washed houses and slate-paved courtyards. The Gurungs are known for their unique fusion of Hindu and Buddhist cultures and their generations of service in Britain’s legendary Gurkha regiments. Continuing higher, we arrive at Chomro (7,230'), the last permanent village below the Annapurna Sanctuary, set at the base of Hiunchuli (20,782').

Days 6-9
Annapurna Sanctuary

Emerging above treeline, we come to Panchenin Barha (8,500'), where the lower ramparts of Machapuchare and beautiful Hiunchuli create a narrow natural “gate” to the Sanctuary. After an overnight at Machapuchare Base Camp at 12,150 feet, we enter the sanctuary itself and camp at 13,000 feet. We enjoy an Exploration Day in this extraordinary cirque ringed by Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna II, Roc Noir, Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machapuchare. Views in all directions are breathtaking and ever changing, and the sight of alpenglow on Machapuchare is simply amazing.

Days 10-13
Modi Khola / Landrung / Pokhara

We descend through the beautiful villages of the Modi Khola Valley, enjoying panoramas of the entire Annapurna Massif, a fitting conclusion to this magnificent trek. We overnight on Day 13 in the garden setting of the Shangri La Village Resort in Pokhara.

Days 14-16
Kathmandu Fly back to Kathmandu on Day 14. After

a final day to explore this bustling city, we depart on Day 16.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 5+, strenuous. We have 11 hiking days and we hike 5-8 hours a day on moderate to steep trails. Most of the hiking is between 5,000 and 13,000 feet, and our highest camp is at about 13,000 feet. For the most part, you can go at your own speed. The group spreads out along the trail during the day, with our Sherpa guides hiking along with us to make sure that everyone finds the way. Trail conditions can be primitive, and there is a good bit of up-and-down (often 2,000 to 3,000 feet in elevation gain or loss per day). There is ample opportunity for exploring the villages and beautiful surroundings near our campsites, and, of course, for photography. Please note that this trip spends time at high altitudes in the Himalaya, and that mountain weather is unpredictable; snow is not likely to be a problem, but it can occur at any time.

Although you carry only a daypack on the hikes, there are steep ascents and descents, so for your own enjoyment, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. Daily brisk walking and/or regular hiking (or using a stair-climbing machine at your gym) are excellent preparatory exercises. You should wear sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots for maximum comfort on the trail.

Explanation of Trip Levels