Annapurna Sanctuary

The mountain-ringed amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary is one of the most spectacular places on earth, with a 360-degree vista of snow-covered giants including Annapurna I (26,545') and the sacred peak of Machapuchare (22,943'). Our trek into this exquisite high-altitude world showcases the extraordinary range of Nepal’s landscapes, from dense bamboo jungles, magnificent stands of rhododendrons, and the timeless villages of the Gurung and Tamang clans to the breathtaking mountain realm above treeline. After entering the sanctuary “gates” of this renowned Himalayan cirque, we have two unforgettable days to explore its glaciers and high ridges from our campsite at 13,000 feet.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Kathmandu

In the ancient city of Kathmandu, we explore extraordinary Hindu and Buddhist temples, many of which are now on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Days 3-5
Pokhara / Ghandruk / Chomro

Flying to Pokhara, we meet our crew and hike alongside the Modi Khola, a river fed by the huge glaciers of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Snowy Himalayan giants gleam in a surreal backdrop to this brilliant green landscape. Passing through bamboo forests, we climb to the scenic Gurung village of Ghandruk, with its ancient ochre-washed houses and slate-paved courtyards, and then higher to Chomro (7,230'), the last permanent village below the Annapurna Sanctuary, set at the base of Hiunchuli (20,782').

Days 6-9
Annapurna Sanctuary

Hiking up through rhododendron forests festooned with ferns and orchids, we emerge above treeline at Panchenin Barha, the natural gate to the Annapurna Sanctuary. The gorge widens as we climb higher and feast our eyes upon the full glory of the Annapurna range. We overnight at Machapuchare Base Camp at 12,150 feet, then enter the sanctuary itself, with two full days to explore this sublime realm. This extraordinary mountain cirque is ringed by a parade of Himalayan peaks—Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Annapurna II, Roc Noir, Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machapuchare. Views in all directions are indescribably beautiful and ever changing. The sunset paints the summits in tones of pink and gold and the alpenglow on Machapuchare is incredible. Optional day hikes bring us onto the lateral moraine of the glaciers and toward Advance Base Camp on Annapurna I at 13,500 feet.

Days 10-13
Modi Khola / Landrung / Pokhara

Our return through the lush forests of the Modi Khola Valley brings us to Austrian Camp (7,440'). This final campsite has a beautiful view 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, with a last chance to savor the panorama of the Annapurnas.

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

Optional Extensions

If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:

• Taj Mahal and Jaipur Extension (4 days)
• Tiger Tops: Royal Chitwan National Park Extension (3 days)
• Scenic Everest Flight (1 days)
• Lhasa, Sacred City of Tibet Extension (5 days)

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