Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Explore the cultural treasures of Kathmandu in our guided tour and immerse yourself in the vibrant array of bustling streets, incomparable historic buildings and heritage, exquisite temples and religious sites. The tour includes the holiest Hindu pilgrimage site of Pashupatinath Temple, the colossal stupa of Bouddhanath, Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as The Monkey Temple and the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square with ‘Kumari Ghar’. There will also be time for shopping, picking up a thing or two for your trekking, if you have not done it back home. In the evening, we will have a pre-trek discussion and familiarize with our leader, other crew and participants.

We’ll depart Kathmandu this morning by private van or bus for Pokhara. The scenic drive will take us through scenic countryside to the famous lakeside city where we can relax for the evening and savor the spectacular mountain views over Fewa Lake.

After our short drive to Nayapul we begin our trek, walking via Birethanti through a series of villages along the KhumnuKhola. The day ends in the Gurung village of Ghandruk, surrounded by spectacular views of Machhapuchare, Annapurna south, and Hiulchuli.

An hour’s climb from Ghandruk followed by a steep descent takes us to the banks of the KimronKhola. After a further climb we’ll arrive in the stunningly scenic vicinity of Chhomrong, a charming town nestled near the base of several towering Himalayan peaks.

The terrain takes on a more remote feel as we ascend further into the foothills. A river crossing over suspension bridge will take us through thick forests to SinuwaDanda, Khuldighar, and finally to Dovan.

The river is far below us now as we continue up the side of the lush valley. Crossing several streams, we pass through a serene expanse of oak and rhododendron. Our gradual climb brings us to our overnight stop in Deurali.

The walk to Machhapuchare Base Camp will be a challenge today, navigating a boulder-strewn riverbed followed by a steep climb. The unfolding views of Machhapuchare are spectacular, as well as the snowy peaks that emerge to surround us on all sides.

The terrain is starkly different from the verdant green hillsides now as we approach the sanctuary, encountering our first views of glacial moraine. Annapurna south towers before us as we approach the sanctuary, arriving eventually at a remarkable viewpoint where a 360 degree panorama can be had including the peaks of Machhapuchare, Annapurna south, Huichuli, and a host of others.

After a spectacular sunrise, we’ll begin our descent out of the sanctuary, which will feel much easier than the previous days due to the decrease in altitude. Passing back through Deurali, Dovan, and Bamboo, we’ll return into the lush world of the Annapurna foothills, descending into a valley flanked by two tremendous waterfalls beneath a skyline dominated by Huichuli and Machhapuchare.

Descending via Sinuwa to lower Chomrong, we’ll climb a challenging stretch of stone steps to upper Chomrong. The trail continues on to JhinuDanda, where welcome relief can be found at the hot springs just a short walk from the village.

Leaving the towering peaks behind us, we continue the descent past Kyumi village and Sayali Bazaar. We’ll reach Nayapul via Birethanti to board our bus to Pokhara. After the short drive to Pokhara, we’ll arrive in time to enjoy an evening meal and relax around the shores of beautiful Fewa Lake.

After breakfast, we’ll board our bus bound for Kathmandu, arriving in the evening in time to relax in Thamel and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Take care of any last minute shopping or sightseeing as time permits. You’ll be picked up at your hotel three hours prior to your departure flight. Thanks for traveling with Purple Journeys. Farewell and Namaste.