Annapurna Sanctuary

Leaving Birethanti (1025m), the trek begins with a flat hike through incredible mountain scenery, charming villages, and rhododendron forest. The fascinating culture of the Nepal countryside is the backdrop as the trek continues to Tikhedhunga (1480m). The trail passes through small village and follows the Bhurungdi Khola river upstream, gradually ascending through forested hillsides and passing several waterfalls.

Walking distance: 6kms.
Time: 3-4 hours.
Elevation gain: 455m
Terrain: Mostly uphill with some sections of steep stone steps and occasional flat sections.

Begin today with a slow ascent through woodland, with views of the Annapurna range stretching out ahead. Passing through dense forest, the route ends in Ghorepani (2860m), where there are incredible mountain views across the region. The trek starts with a steep climb up a stone staircase which has around 3000 steps. After crossing this Ulleri staircase, the trail levels out before the approach to Ghorepani, when the trail becomes steeper again with several uphill sections.

Walking distance: 13kms.
Time: 6-7 hours.
Elevation gain: 1380m
Terrain: Mix of steep climbs, gentle trails through forests, and a suspension bridge crossing

Descending from Ghorepani, the views of the Annapurnas continue as the hike heads for Tadapani (2630m). Views of Machhapuchhare are absolutely spectacular on a sunny day. Walk through beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak trees, and bamboo trees, with occasional clearings offering panoramic views of the Annapurna Ranges and valleys below.

Walking distance : 9kms
Time: 5-6 hours
Elevation loss: 230m
Terrain: Mixture of uphill and downhill trails through forest

It's another day of varied ascents and descents on the way to Chhomrong (2170m). Pass through endless rhododendron forest and into farmland where the impressive terraced fields are a sight to behold. Continue upwards past waterfalls and bridges before arriving to Chhomrong.

Walking distance : 10kms
Time: 5-6 hours.
Elevation loss: 460m
Terrain: Trail passes through lush forests and the first part of the trek involves a gradual descent followed by steep climb

Wake early enough to catch the sunrise over the Annapurnas before the trek begins today. There are more suspension bridges and rhododendron forests on the trek today, as well as villages and teahouses. On the way to Himalaya (2920m), the trek changes to bamboo forest and the views of Machhapuchhare are even more impressive.

Walking distance: 12-13kms
Time: 7-8 hours
Elevation gain: 750m
Terrain: Mostly uphill with some steep and rocky sections

It is a tough day trekking to reach the highest point of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek at 4,130m (13,550 ft) today. The route to Annapurna Base Camp passes through some open valleys, a reminder of all the snowfall that can occur during winter. With incredible views of the Annapurnas and, in particular, the views of Machhapuchhare, the hiking today is worth the challenge.

Walking distance: 7kms
Time: 5-6 hours
Elevation gain: 1210m
Terrain: Mostly rugged and rocky terrain

Retracing steps today, the trek returns from Annapurna Base Camp, past Machhapuchhare Base Camp, to the village of Bamboo (2310m). This is a much more enjoyable trek than the last few days with mostly downhill sections and forest areas among epic views.

Walking distance: 16kms
Time: 8-9 hours.
Elevation loss: 1820m
Terrain: mostly downhill along rocky and uneven steps and through forested areas

Continue the trek downhill, crossing rivers and farmland, as well as countless steps, on the way from Bamboo to Jhinudanda (1780m). Its easy to see the roofs of Jhinudanda on the walk, and this final stop for the day is well deserved.

Walking distance: 8kms
Time: 4-5 hours.
Elevation loss: 530m
Terrain: mostly downhill crossing rivers and farmland

It is a longer day trekking today, on the way to Pothana (1890m). The trek goes through lush forest and across several bridges over the fast-flowing river below. The rich greenery of the area, with spectacular wildflowers in the right season, makes for a rewarding day trekking.

Walking distance: 16 - 17kms
Time: 6-7 hours.
Elevation gain: 110m
Terrain: Mix of gentle ascents and descents, lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages

It is the last day of the trek today, consisting of the short distance from Pothana to Ghattekhola (1130m). Be sure to look back at the views of the high peaks of the Annapurnas as the trek winds through green fields and forests before joining up with the road and the transfer back to Pokhara.

Walking distance: 5kms
Time: 2 hours.
Elevation loss: 760m
Terrain: mostly downhill through green fields and forests.