Annapurna Sanctuary

The mountain-ringed amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary is one of the most dramatic 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 breathtaking mountain sanctuary, we enjoy a memorable Exploration Day with hikes up to high ridges for views that are simply out of this world.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Kathmandu

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

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

Flying to Pokhara, we hike across a network of picturesque winding trails that are often hand-built stone staircases, ascending through the Modi Khola Valley to the handsome 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 Chomrong (7,230'), the last permanent village below the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Days 6-9
Annapurna Sanctuary

Emerging above treeline, we come to Panchenin Barha (8,500'), where the lower ramparts of Machapuchare and Hiunchuli create a natural gate to the Sanctuary. From our camp at Machapuchare Base Camp (12,150') on Day 7, we have an incredible view of Machapuchare, which is often bathed in alpenglow long after dusk. Hiking higher into the sanctuary itself and camping at 13,000 feet, we have a full Exploration Day in this extraordinary cirque ringed by Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna II, Roc Noir, Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machapuchare.

Days 10-13
Modi Khola / Landrung / Pokhara

We descend through beautiful villages to the Pokhara Valley, enjoying panoramas of the entire Annapurna Massif all the way. Overnight on Day 13 is 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 lively city, we depart on Day 16.

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What the Trip is Like

This trip is Level 5+, Strenuous. We have 11 hiking days, with hikes of 6-8 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. On trek, there are steep ascents and descents (often 2,000 to 3,000 feet in elevation gain or loss per day), including sections of steep, stone staircases. For the most part, you can go at your own speed. The group spreads out along the trail during the day, with our guides hiking along with us to make sure that everyone finds the way.

There are dangers inherent in any expedition traveling to remote wilderness regions, especially when they involve travel to high altitude. These dangers include everything from rock falls to the possibility of a serious fall, accident, or sickness without access to means of rapid evacuation, availability of medical supplies, or adequate medical attention once provided. Our Trip Leaders and support crew are experienced veterans of the Nepal Himalaya, but it takes cooperation and flexibility from each participant to ensure a successful trek.

Explanation of Trip Levels