Nepal » Trekking in Nepal » Annapurna Region » Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Day 01: POKHARA TO GHANDRUK:
The first phase of the trek to Annapurna Base Camp starts from Pokhara. One can embark on the journey to Ghandruk either along Dhampus from Fedi along the Pokhara Baglung Highway or along Syauli Bazar from Nayapool. Fedi is 20 kms from Pokhara's Lakeside while Nayapool is 43 kms along the Baglung Highway. Ghandruk can be reached at the end of 5 to 6 hours walk from Nayapool. the trips includes a walk along the banks of the Modi River from Nayapool passing through Birethanti, Syanli Bazar and Kimche to Kling. From Kling it is a 3 to 4 hour uphill climb along the stone paved way to Ghandruk. Ghandruk is one of the major tourist destinations. The beauty of the village is enhanced by the stone houses lining the stone paved paths. The village is also known as Dhungeni Gaon that literally translate as the stony village. The majestic view of the Machhapurchhre and Annapurna Range lutes tourists from all corners of the world. The Machhapurchhre peak that translates as Fish-Tail Mountain actually looks like the trail of fish from here. The main feature of the place is the different views of the mountain compared to that seen from Pokhara. The springs, waterfalls appeasing beautiful scenery, heart-luring pictuerque village and the cacophony of the singing birds encountered during the journey please the mind and rediates any sign of tiredness from body. About a dozen cozy lodges serve the tourists arriving at the village. However, rooms are scarce during the tourisit seasons.

Day 02: GHANDRUK TO CHHOMRONG:
The Second day's trek starts from Ghandruk to Chhomrong. Chhomrong is located at an altitude of 2200 m . Chhomrong can be reached comfortably at the end of 5 to 6 hous walk from Ghandruk. passing through Dandagaon, Komrong and Kimrung Khola. the beautiful view observed along the journey mesmerizes anyone. The up-closed view of the Annapurna Range seen from Chhomrong delights the heart. The main attraction of this mountain village is the entire view of the Annapurna and the Himchuli Ranges, from the foot to the peak. many tourist arrive at Chhomrong all the way from Pokhara with a sole purpose to expereice the view. The combination of nearly kept Gurung settlement, cobbled stone pathways and the tiny pictureques village prompts trekkers to spend at least one night at Chhomrong. Chhomrong is probably the most beautiful village falling on the trekking route to the Annapurna Base Camp, and is also popular for the same reason. One can feel the nature at heart in Chhomrong. The traditional dance of the Gurungs is another major attraction of Chhomrong. The local women's group called the "Mothers' Group" perform the traditional dances to entertain the tourist if they request. There are about a dozen hotels and lodges in operation in Chhomrong.

Day 03: CHHOMRONG TO DOVAN:
Tourists wishing to shorten their way choose to stay at Dovan on third day of the trek. Others prefer to stay at Jinuwa or Bambo. The trip to Dovan is considered together and more adventurious Care should be taken during the trip because of the difficult uphill climb. the Dovan village, previosly known as Phedikharka, has an altitude of 2500m and it takes 6 to 7 hours to reach there from Chhomrong. A downhill walk from Chhomrong leads to Ghatekhola Bridge. After crossing the bridge, an uphill path crossing through Jinuwa and Bambo will tak to Dovan. Every single village along the Annapurna Base Camp trek and every next view along the way seem to have descended from a land out of this world and could be viewed as the gift of nature. The Jinuwa village along the way to Dovan is regarded as a very beautiful village. The unique combination of Alpine Mountains, Green Hills, Rivers and waterfalls. All observed in a single view enchants every soul. The beauty of this village has also make its way into the works of a good number of leteratures. The geographycal location of the dovan village is also unique. Sandwiched between a pair of mountains ridges, only a little sky is visible from the village but the view of the Machhapuchhre range is incomparable to that seen from any other point. There are 3 to 4 lodges in the village serving the tourist.

Day 04: DOVAN TO MACHHAPURCHHRE BASE CAMP:
The forth day's trek is more difficult then the previous day's trek and involves longer walk. it takes 6 to 7 hours to reach the Machhapurchhre Base Camp from Dovan. it is better to stay at Deurali if you are extremely tired then to carry on. there are 4-5 lodges in Deurali form accommodation. Some trekkers can make it up to the Annapurna Base Camp in one day. The walk from Dovan to Deurai takes 4 to 5 hours. Deurali is 3220m above the sea level and has an astrounding natural diversity. This along with a stone idol of Lord Buddha in a " Padmasana" or lotus posture is the main attraction of Deurali. The Machhapurchhre base camp is 2 to 3 hours ahead from there. The trek to the Machhapurchhre BC is considered as a fabulous journey for those seeing to get closer to nature. The regular chage in topography in short intervals of the trip and the corresponding chinge in one's perception creates a lasting memory. The crystal clear lakes ponds, cascading waterfalls, rugged hills fising out from the foothills of the majestic Himalayan peaks have the power to heal both physical and mental farigue. The phtographs taken during the trip literally gives an opportunity to capture the moment for ever. Tourist can stay at any of the 5 lodges eperated at the Machhapurchhre Base Camp.

Day 05: MACHHAPUCHHRE BASE CAMP TO ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP:
The fifth day's trek ends at the Annapurna Base Camp which is the last and the most impotant destination fot eh whole trek. The walk from would renowned Machhapurchhre Base camp at a 3700 m altitude to the 4150m altutude Annapurna Base Camp takes 2 hours. The view of the gigantic Machhapuchhre Peak rising like a spire of snow from among the barren hills and piercing into the heart of the sky is comparable to one from the heaven of imagination. the Machhapuchhre Range that is seen towards the North of Pokhara could be observed from its eastern border here. Enthralled by the hearthtaking views, tourist could be seen here enjoying the view and joyously captureing the scene in their camera. Only a limited number of hotels are in operation here as anyone reching here is in a hurry to reach the Annapurna Base Camp.

Day 06: ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP:
The Annapurna Base Camp one of the best destinations in the world for is mountain trekking which is situated 4150m above the sea level. Almsot 500 meters higher than the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Geographycally. It is located between two mountain rainges. Visitors seeing the Mountains in the North at times a get disoriented to find thermselves between the mountain extending in all directions. Anyone will get lost in heavely ecstasy at finding themselves surrounded by the immense moutains from all sides. There are infinite number of mountain peaks in the world. most with own base mpas. But, according to the tourist, there is no other camp that comes close to Annapurna base camp in terms of the astournding natural beauty that seems to have landed from outside this world. It is also the perfect place to quench the thirst of nature and beauty.Moreover, nature lovers, both from within the country and outside do not shy away from kssing the ground after entering the Base Camp. most tourists are tempted to lengthern theristay at the place and spend the time observing the vicinity. Only a limited number of hotels are operated heree making the availabilty of rooms scares during the tourist season. Those failing to find rooms here opt to return to the Machhapurchhre Base Camp to return once again in the morning. It would to carry all the necessary items during the trek.

Day 07: ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TO BAMBO:
It is beeter to stay at Bambo on the 7th day for the trip or the 1st of the retun trip. One has to walk for 6 to 7 hours from Annapurna Base Camp to reach Bambo. It is also easier to walk downhill comp;ared to uphill climb. Time passes swiftly during the walk that is made more enjoyable by the never seen before views of the surprisingly beautiful gifts of the nature. However everyone expereinces a strange sense of emptiness somewhere in the heart duing the return trip. Likewise, It is also extremely difficult for anyone to shake off the magic of the Base camp. Trekkers follow the route passing through Machhapurchhre Base Camp. Deurali, Himalaya Hotel and dovan to reach Bambo. Many luxurious and cozy lodges are operated at Bambo that provide accommodation and food to the exhausted tourists.

Day 08: BAMBO TO CHHOMRONG:
It is best to stay at the lovely Chhomrong village on the 8th day if you prefer to enjoy stay amidst the nature and freshen up. M<ost tourist choose to stay at Chhomrong on the return trip. The temptation of viewing the mountain peaks including the Annapurna Range. From close distance cannot be overcame easily. that is why majority of tourist would like to stay at the village for the second time. There is anentiryly different expereince while staying in the village. The village with distinct geographical location and natural diversity is adored by all. tourist also give a priority to the Chhomrong village due to cultural entertainment. The fame of the original traditional dance of the tiny Gurung settlement has spread all over the world. People are relieved out of their bdily exhaustion and mental fatigue by the end of the traditional entertainment. it takes about 5 to 6 hours to reach Chhomrong from Bambo.

Day 09: CHHOMRONG TO TADAPANI:
It is better to stay at Tadapani on the ninth day of the retun trip. Tadapani is a lovely village that has a great potential to become a tourist hub. However, a travel to the village is little too rough. there is no near source of water in the area thus giving it the name "Tadapani" that translate as "Far Water". Tourism is the main source of income of the village that looks more like a small bazzar. Owing to its locations amidst the wilderness, Tadapani is afavoutire among the tourist. Numerous curio shops have also sprung up around the village, selling memntos to the tourists. The village also offers a delightful view of the peaks like Annapurna South, Himchuli, Gangapurna and the Machhapuchhre. Tadapani is also famous for the view of the dolden sunrise. It takes a 6 to 7 hours walk from Chhomrong to Tadapani passing through Dhurjung. Likewise, a trip through Ghandruk, Sitlyu and Bhainsikharka takes some 4 hours.Tadapani is situated at altitude 2650 m above the sea leavel.

Day 10: TADAPANI TO GHOREPANI:
The naturally diverse tourist hub of Ghorepani is one of the most attractive place of the trip. It is on the way to Poonhill, and tourist on the way there usually stay a night at Ghorepani. The lovely hamler surrounded by green hills is also popular as an important tourist destination. It is thus advisable to stay at Ghorepani after the thnth day's trip. The place is popular among tourist for viewing the sunrise and taking a peek at the regal Dhaulagiri range. The view of the first rays of the rising sun lighting up the entire Himalayan panorama is distinct from that seen from any other place. The place is also famous for admiring the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges from up close. The exceptionally beautiful topography and natural diversity is not only capable of overcoming the visitors aesthetic sense but also creates a new found freshness within their inner soul. Most visitors, bewitched by the place's aura, often extend their stay. Such is the magic of Ghorepani. The night view of the Ghorepani bazar against the dark background amuses the tourists. Ghorepani is situated at 2874 meters above the sea level in the mountainous part of Myagdi district. There are more than a dozen lodges in Ghorepani that provide accommodation to the tourists. A walk from to Ghorepani from Tadapani takes about 4 to 5 hours.

Day 11: POONHILL:
Poonhill's fame is spread around the world as an ideal place to get lost in the wonders of the nature. Poonhill lying in the Ghara Village of Myagdi district at a 3210m altitude is a favourite name for tourist from both in and out of Nepal. A series of mighty Himalayan peaks including the Gurja Peak, Dhaulagiri and Machhapurchhre stand tall extending from one side to another. The first lights of the sun illuminate these montains with such splendor that is beyond anyone's wildest imagination. Poonhill is also famous for its assortment of natural diversity, the traditional culture of the native Magar coummunity and the numerous species of flora and fauna. The period between September to March is regarded appropriate for a visit to Poonhill. The row of mountain peaks is covered entirely with snow during that part of the year and the view allures the heart. Poonhill is actually just a hilltop near Ghorepani and there is a wide open ground on top of the hillock. A view tower has also been constructed at the middle of the plateau. Tourists climb the hillslope in droves in the wee hours of the moring to reach the top before the firest raw of sun hits the earth. They pack the hilltop in anticipation of the first rays of sunlight that turn the yonder mountain ranges into the fabulous golden color. Tourist push and shove each other in the crowd for an opportunity to capture the splendid scenery on their cameras. it is very cold on top of the hillock but tourist seem to ignore the cold and the strong breeze while taking photographs of the radiant mountains. The hustle and bustle of the crowd suddenly stops and an ceric silence befalls the crowd tof tourist just as the first rays of sunlight hits the mountains. A sudden chatter of clicking camera shutters then takes over as an underclared competiotion kicks off amoung the onlookers to capture the best shot of the sunrise. Tourists who had never met each other previously begin to share their views and exclamations with enthusiasm when the magic of the moment begins to prevail. There are innumerable instantces of unknown tourists beginning lasting freindship during these brief moments of ectacy and glory. Those in a hurry return back after the day break while many choose to stay there until their thirst for beauty is satisfied.

Day 12: GHOREPANI TO POKHARA:
The trek to the Annapurna Base Camp ends with the walk from Ghorepani to Pokhara. The last phase of the journey is comparitively difficult. One has to walk hard in order to reach Pokhara in one day from Ghorepani. Otherwise, it is better to spend a night at Ulleri or tikhedhunga and take a rest. It takes about 8 to 10 hours on foot to reach Nayapool from Ghorepani, passing through Birethanti. The view of trekkers and mules, loaded with goods, climbing the uphill path freshen up the mind druing the climb down. The rows of trekkers along the journey to the Annapurna Base Camp revive the memory of the first days of the ardous trip. To reach Nayapool from Ghorepani one has to walk past Ulleri, Banthanti, Tikhedunga, Hille Bazzar, Birethanti and from there take a cab or public vehicle to Pokhara. A glorious sense of victory overwhelms the mind after reaching Pokhara at the end of the trek.