Group Size
Min 1 Max 15
Duration
15 Days
Grade
Designed for active individuals, these trips involve moderate physical activity, typically including multi-day treks with daily walks of 4-6 hours on varied terrain. Expect gradual altitude gains but no technical challenges. Suitable for those with a basic fitness level. Perfect setting of introduction to trekking in Nepal. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well and the well-known ‘Nepali flat’ – a little bit up and a little bit down.
Max. Altitude
4,130m/13,550ft
Activity
Trekking in Nepal
Meals Included
In Kathmandu, breakfast is included at the hotel, and during the trek, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided
Accomodation
Stay in hotels while in the city and in lodges during the trek
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Must-See Annapurna Sanctuary Trek HighlightsÂ
- Appeal to your eyes with panoramic views of mountain ranges, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs.
- Chill at the ideal location of Pokhara and experience its majesty.
- Walk through the traditional villages and beautiful landscapes throughout the trek.
- Witness a diverse range of topography while passing through the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Experience the warm hospitality of ethnic groups, especially the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities.
15 Days Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggage at the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard for Highland Expeditions at the exit of the arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served, and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street.
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
Fly to Pokhara & explore
After breakfast, you hop on a twenty-minute flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu airport. During the flight, the views from your window seat will give you mesmerizing views of the glorious Manaslu and the snow-capped Annapurna mountain range. You’ll reach your hotel, refresh, and get familiar with your surroundings. You can stroll down by the Fewa Lake and also go boating. You can also visit David’s Fall and the Peace Stupa. The city of lakes, Pokhara, is a wonderful city to explore.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: -532m/1,716ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
827m/2,714ft
Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri
Today, we drive to Nayapul to start our trek. From Nayapul, we follow the south bank of the river. After several hours, we will pass through sub-tropical valley forests, sometimes on the carved trail on the side of the cliff. After lunch, we cross the Modi Khola stream via a suspension bridge to the village of Tikhedhunga. We trekked further along the trail, which was quite steep at times. We will reach Ulleri by late afternoon for overnight. Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: 1,223m/4,012ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
6-7
Max Elevation:
2,050m/6,726ft
Trek to Ghorepani
We make our ascent to the Ghorepani village. The name Ghorepani in Nepali means a place with a water trough for resting weary horses, owing to its role as an important campsite for traders before it became a trekker’s stop, too, for a breather. Ghorepani is an interesting place with small shops and stalls selling local products and handicrafts. The town has two parts: one in a saddle-like shape and the other a few hundred feet lower. Since Ghorepani lies quite higher than our previous stop, we begin to get the first feelings of the chilly weather down here, especially in the evenings.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: 700m/2,296ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,750m/9,033ft
Hike up to Poonhill and trek to Tadapani
Today is a special day because we surmount Poon Hill- an icon of the Annapurna region. We climb the steep trail to the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3200mtrs). The efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views of Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Annapurnas. After taking photos and having coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, we return to Gorepani. After breakfast, we head east and climb a nearby ridge. We descend through a rhododendron forest, pass by spectacular waterfalls along the way, and reach Tadapani. Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: -50m/164ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,210m/10,532ft
Trek to Chomrong
After breakfast, we hike steeply down the river, crossing via another airy suspension bridge. The next couple hours see us contouring through the landscape before we reach the steep section of steps that brings us to Chomrong, where we stop for lunch. From here, the true splendor of the mountains can be seen, with full views of Machhapucchre, Hinchuli, and Annapurna South. From Bhanuwa, it is a steep descent, largely on steps, to the valley bottom.
Overall elevation gain tonight from the previous night: -530m/-1,739ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,170m/7,120ft
Trek to Dovan
We head out of Chhomrong along the Modi Khola, leaving behind the inhabited foothills into the Himalayas’ high steppes and wooded slopes. We cross the suspension bridge & then trek up to Sinuwa Danda. The ascent from Sinuwa becomes somewhat flatter. The trail passes through a thick & dark rhododendron forest up to Khuldighar. Then, the track passes through deep bamboo and rhododendron forest to the village of Dovan for our night stop. Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 410m/1,345ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,580m/8,465ft
Trek to Macchapuchre Base Camp
Today, we start our trek to Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC). The day starts with a gentle, gradual ascent following the trail above the river through a thick bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forest up the side of the canyon. The trail climbs gently through a riverbed and rises steeply over the mountainside. There are also avalanche-prone areas at some points on the trail.
After about a half-hour walk from Deurali, we will find ourselves in the middle of a riverbed surrounded by giant snow-covered mountains. When the sun rises, the snow on the mountains glitters, and the river valley is filled with warm sun rays. The hike to MBC is somewhat strenuous, but the unfolding views of the majestic Machhapuchre are certainly a rewarding experience. We stop for our overnight at this quiet, lovely base camp.
Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 1,120m/3,674ft
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
3,700m/12,140ft
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp and trek back to Deurali
On the way to ABC from MBC, the vegetation disappears. Due to drastic changes in weather patterns, we see the snow boulders melting and forming small streams. The path widens as we enter the sanctuary, follows a stream, and then climbs to a few huts alongside a moraine. There are sensational views of the near-vertical south face of Annapurna towering above the sanctuary.
Annapurna Base Camp Sanctuary boasts a dynamic view without anything impeding the 360-degree panorama. The Machhapuchre, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiuchuli, and other peaks bring a wonderful climax to our trip, which almost ends today. When this is done, we head down and stroll back to Deurali through a quiet, well-marked trail.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
6-7 hrs
Max Elevation:
4,130m/13,550ft
Trek to Bamboo hotel
We wake up with the birds at Deurali and savor the magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas. Today, we start descending from Deurali, heading downhill, mostly negotiating stone steps as we descend to the Chomrong Khola. What goes down must go up again, however, and, having crossed this side stream, we continue our steady ascent of the Modi Khola Valley and the ‘hill top’ at Sinuwa village. There are terrific views of the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre, making it the perfect lunch spot.
After lunch, we continued through the forest (with a chance of spotting troops of langur monkeys that live here), mostly following the contours, and then made a final descent to the collection of lodges known as bamboo and finally to the Bamboo Hotel. Heading back down to the valley is much easier than climbing up. Waterfalls cascading down the 500-foot granite faces on both sides to the forest below and great views of Fishtail and Hiunchuli makeup today’s primary attractions.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Max Elevation:
2,310m/7,579ft
Trek to Jhinu Dada
We will trek back to Sinuwa from Bamboo and descend to Lower Chomrong. We then ascend the thousand stony steps, which take us to Upper Chomrong. From Chomrong, we take a different route. Instead of going to Ghandruk, we descend to the pretty village of Jhinu Danda. We get an opportunity to enjoy the hot springs, which are situated just a 15-minute walk from Jhinu Danda. Taking a dip in these hot springs is pretty good for the health.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Teahouse / Lodge
Duration:
5-6 hrs
Max Elevation:
1,760m/5,775ft
Trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara
We trek from Jhinu danda to Nayapul. After lunch, we will trek to Sayali Bazaar and then down to Birethanti. From Birethanti, a half-hour trek takes us to Naya Pul. The trek ends at Naya Pul. From NayaPul, we take a vehicle and reach Pokhara in about an hour. In the evening, we might enjoy visiting some more places around Pokhara or just chilling out at a restaurant near the lake.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel
Duration:
4-5 hrs
Max Elevation:
827m/2714ft
Drive back to Kathmandu
In the morning we might do some last-hour shopping too. After that, we will drive to Kathmandu. We grab seats on the left aisle of the vehicle for the best views of the rivers along the highway because it’s the last time we’ll probably see them. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we get transferred to our hotel, and we spend the day at our own leisure, perhaps catching up on some last-minute shopping or exploring any sights you missed during your first day in Kathmandu.
Meals:
Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
In Kathmandu
Free and easy day to spend, perhaps doing shopping or resting at the hotel’s beautiful courtyard. Please do not hesitate to let us know if you would like to extend your stay. Kindly email us for more details on extensions. Additionally, we suggest you experience the nightlife of Kathmandu, especially at Thamel. Overnight at Kathmandu’s Hotel.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Hotel
Max Elevation:
1,350m/4,430ft
International departure
It’s your last time in Nepal, as you’ll fly to your home country today. With a heavy heart, we have to drop you off at Tribhuvan Airport. Still, if you plan to stay longer and want to participate in other activities, contact us without hesitation, as we’ll provide you with ideal plans. If you are returning home, we hope to see you again and hope you’ll remember us for your future travel to Nepal.
Meals:
Breakfast
Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather or health conditions of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Availability
Our trips are available on both group departure and private trip.
If you’re looking to join a group, click the Group Departures tab for details on dates, availability, and pricing. All our group departures are guaranteed to run once signed up.
If you prefer a private trip with your friends, family, or colleagues, please fill out the contact form in the Private Trip tab. We’ll organize a personalized trip for you on your preferred dates, accommodating any special requests you may have.
DATES
PRICE
DEPOSIT
AVAILABILITY
15 Days
26 Apr, 2025 - 10 May, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
3 May, 2025 - 17 May, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
10 May, 2025 - 24 May, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
17 May, 2025 - 31 May, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
24 May, 2025 - 7 Jun, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
31 May, 2025 - 14 Jun, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
6 Sep, 2025 - 20 Sep, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
13 Sep, 2025 - 27 Sep, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
20 Sep, 2025 - 4 Oct, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
15 Days
27 Sep, 2025 - 11 Oct, 2025
USD 1,599
20% Deposit
USD 319.80
12 in a group
Available
Ready to create your perfect adventure? Use our trip planner to customize your itinerary and schedule according to your preferences. We’re here to help you tailor every detail to fit your unique needs.
"*" indicates required fields
Cost Inclusion
- All meals (B, L, D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on a trek with tea & coffee.
- Twin-sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 4 nights with breakfast.
- Twin-sharing accommodation at Hotel Dandelion or a similar category for 2 nights.
- Internal flight (KTM-PKR).
- All required permits for the trek (TIMS Card & ACAP).
- Experienced local trek leader with a 1:4 assistant guide-to-client ratio.
- Full support crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers.
- Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts on private A/C vehicles.
- All ground transportation is as mentioned in the itinerary on private A/C vehicles.
- Comprehensive first aid kit.
- Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner, and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of the trek).
- Staff insurance, allowances, and equipment.
- Trek completion certificate (Upon request).
- Group welcome dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant.
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare, Visa, and travel insurance.
- Meals at Kathmandu.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on a trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason).
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities for staff.
FAQs About Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
What is the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?Â
Do I need any permits for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?Â
How much does it cost to trek Annapurna Sanctuary?
What is the difference between the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?Â
What is the maximum altitude trekkers reach during the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?Â
Which is the most scenic spot along the trek to Annapurna Sanctuary?Â
Can I drink tap water along the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?Â
Is it possible to trek during the monsoon season at the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?Â
What should I pack for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
Do I need sunscreen even in Winter while trekking in the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
History of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
The Annapurna Sanctuary has a rich history rooted in ancient pilgrimage and trade routes. Situated at the base of the Annapurna Massif, the sanctuary is a natural amphitheater formed by towering peaks, making it sacred. The Annapurna Sanctuary is home to several holy temples, including Annapurna, which is dedicated to the goddess of food and nourishment. This site has been added to history since ancient times.
Furthermore, the route to Annapurna Sanctuary used to be a trade route between Nepal and Tibet, and many locals still use it today to transport goods and supplies. The route started gaining popularity worldwide after 1977 when disputes between Khampa guerrillas, the local populace, and the Nepal army were settled. However, the trek originally started in Dhumre, a market town on the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway, and ended in Pokhara, taking about 23 days to complete. But, with the development of road accessibility in the early 1980s, the trek now starts from Nayapul and ends at Pokhara, taking just 13-15 days to complete.
When to go Annapurna Sanctuary
You can go on the Annapurna Sanctuary trek throughout the year; however, trekkers must choose the ideal time to minimize the risk and maximize the enjoyment. Thus, we recommend that trekkers go to Annapurna during the peak seasons, spring and autumn when the trekking conditions are ideal.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the most preferred times of the year for trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas, including at Annapurna Sanctuary. While spring comes after a harsh winter, autumn comes after the monsoon season, and both come after off-seasons. The weather, temperature, sky, and visibility during the peak seasons (spring and autumn) are perfect, making the time best for the trek to Annapurna Sanctuary.
In contrast, trekkers who prefer a quiet and isolated experience can also go on the trek during the winter and summer seasons; however, they must be prepared for the potential challenges and risks. While summer brings heavy rainfall, winter brings harsh cold weather, offering trekking challenges. Thus, it is possible to trek to Annapurna Sanctuary throughout the trek, but trekkers must choose the ideal season for a smooth trip.
Is the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek for beginners?
Yes, the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is for beginners and requires no prior trekking experience. Compared to the Everest Base Camp Trek and other treks in the Annapurna region (Annapurna Circuit), the Annapurna Sanctuary suits novices and inexperienced people. However, the requirement of no previous trekking experience doesn’t mean any physical fitness requirement. Instead, a beginner planning a journey to the Sanctuary should pay much attention to physical and mental fitness and preparedness.
Preparation Tips for Beginners
- Start cardio and strength training at least 3 months before the trek.
- Focus on endurance and leg strength training.
- Involve in daily hikes with a full backpack to simulate trek conditions.
- Be involved in yoga activities that help to set a positive mindset.
- Be prepared for the challenges during the trek, as unpredictable circumstances may occur at any time in the Himalayas.
- Consider hiring a guide and porter for additional support.
- Invest in good clothing and gear.
- Choose a reputable trekking agency that prioritizes your safety.
Significant Landmarks of Annapurna Sanctuary Treks
Poon Hill
Within the Annapurna region at Ghorepani village of Myagdi district, Poon Hill is the significant landmark along the trek to Annapurna Sanctuary. Lying at an elevation of 3,210m above sea level, Poon Hill is a well-renowned destination famous for offering majestic sunrise views over the world’s tenth highest peak, Mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Macchapucchre Base Camp, at 3,700m/m/12,139 ft, is another key landmark along the trek to Annapurna Sanctuary or Annapurna Base Camp. The base camp is the base of the Machhapuchhre mountain, one of the holiest peaks in Nepal. The Macchapucchre Base Camp is stunning, with a panorama of Mount Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and other Himalayan peaks. The base camp is the acclimatization and resting point for trekkers heading to Annapurna Base Camp, marking the gateway to Annapurna Sanctuary.
Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp is undoubtedly the prominent landmark along the trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. At an elevation of 4,130m, the base camp is the ultimate destination of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. Standing at the top of the base camp offers trekkers a sense of accomplishment and worth of navigating every rough section smoothly. The view of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Gangapurna is the key highlight of the base camp. Additionally, the panorama of the rising sun and setting sun are also satisfying from the ABC.
Do you need guides and porters for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
Whether or not you need a porter for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek depends on the individual trekker’s choice and preferences. However, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies Association Nepal (TAAN) have made it mandatory to hire a licensed trekking guide for all trekking destinations in Nepal, including for Annapurna Sanctuary, for the safety of trekkers. Thus, trekkers must hire a guide, whereas hiring a porter is optional.
Hiring a guide won’t make you regret it at all. They will help you with everything from managing your logistics to assisting you throughout the trek. The guide will be your valuable companion on the journey to Annapurna Sanctuary by providing information regarding the route, local culture, and weather conditions. Likewise, porters are unpraised heroes who will carry all your loads and allow you to focus only on the trip. Moreover, hiring guides costs around $25-$35 per day and $15-$25 for porters.
Things to Consider before and during the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Before Trek
- Choose the right trekking season, as selecting the perfect season only helps you to complete the trek smoothly.
- Obtain all necessary permits for the trek. Without a permit, you can’t complete the trek.
- Make yourself physically and mentally fit.
- Involve in physical fitness and training for a couple of months.
- Pack the right gear, from clothing to footwear to other essentials.
- Choose a reputable trekking agency that ensures your safety.
- Buy travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, helicopter evacuation in emergencies, and medical treatment.
During Trek
- Focus on acclimatization by ascending gradually and letting the body adjust to the changed temperature.
- Drink at least 3 liters of water daily.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine as they lead to dehydration.
- Take rest whenever you need to.
- Know the symptoms of altitude sickness and don’t ignore them.
- Respect local culture and tradition while passing through villages.
- Eat energy-rich meals and vegetarian meals instead of non-veg meals.
- Avoid raw vegetables and meat.
- Dress warm in the morning and night, and the times are cold.
- Seek permission before taking photos of people and religious sites.
Weather and Temperature changes during the trek
The weather and temperature on the journey to Annapurna Sanctuary vary throughout the trek depending on location, elevation, and season. Here are the weather and temperature changes during the trek at different points and in different seasons:
| Location | Weather and Temperature in Spring | Weather and Temperature in Summer | Weather and Temperature in Autumn | Weather and Temperature in Winter |
| Pokhara (827m) | 12°C-30°C, clear skies and plant weather | 18°C to 32°C, humid and heavy rainfall | 15°C to 30°C, clear skies | 5°C to 20°C, cool mornings |
| Nayapul (1,070m) | 10°C to 28°C, warm | 16°C to 30°C, rainy | 13°C to 27°C, stable weather | 4°C to 18°C, chilly morning |
| Ulleri (2,050m) | 7°C to 22°C, pleasant | 12°C to 24°C, cloudy and rainfall | 9°C to 21°C, cool nights | -2°C to 12°C, cold nights |
| Ghorepani (2,750m) | 5°C to 20°C, comfortable | 10°C to 22°C, foggy with rain | 7°C to 19°C, fresh air | -4°C to 10°C, cold weather |
| Poon Hil (3,210m) | 5°C to 18°C, amazing sunrise view | 10°C to 20°C, foggy with rainfall | 6°C to 17°C, clear skies | -5°C to 10°C, freezing morning |
| Tadapani (2,630m) | 5°C to 20°C, mild | 10°C to 22°C, occasional rainfall | 7°C to 19°C, fresh air | -3°C to 10°C, cold morning and nights |
| Chhomrong (2,170m) | 7°C to 20°C, comfortable | 10°C to 22°C, humid | 8°C to 20°C, dry trails | -2°C to 12°C, chilly nights |
| Dovan (2,580m) | 3°C to 18°C, cool | 8°C to 20°C, west and misty | 5°C to 17°C, stable | -4°C to 8°C, extremely cold nights and morning |
| Macchapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m) | -2 to 12°C, cold but pleasant | 5°C to 15°C, foggy and rainfall | 0°C to 12°C, stunning views | -10°C to 5°C, freezing and snowfall |
| Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) | -5°C to 10°C, windy nights with mild day | 3°C to 12°C, rain | -2°C to 10°C, stable weather with clear sky | -15°C to 5°C, extremely cold with snowfall |
| Bamboo (2,310m) | 4°C to 18°C, fresh morning | 9°C to 20°C, humid | 6°C to 17°C, stable weather | -3°C to 10°C, cold nights |
| Jhinu Danda (1,760m) | 8°C to 24°C, warm and pleasant | 12°C to 26°C | 10°C to 22°C, comfortable weather | 0°C to 15°C, cool morning |
Acute Mountain Sickness During the Trek
Acute mountain Sickness (AMS) is a concern while trekking above the elevation of 2,500m. The journey to Annapurna Sanctuary takes trekkers up to an elevation of 4,130m, making the issue a major concern during the trek. The issue generally occurs as trekkers ascend to higher altitudes, where oxygen levels decrease, causing the body not to adjust properly due to thinner air pressure. Additionally, if Acute Mountain Sickness is left untreated, it can lead to more serious conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).Â
The symptoms of Acute Mountain sickness include:Â
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Swelling of hands, feet, and face
- Increased pulse rate
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid breathing
Here is how you can prevent Acute Mountain sickness during the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek:
- Do not ascent rapidly; let your body adjust to the changed temperature by walking gradually.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water every day.
- Eat a balanced diet to maintain your energy level.
- Avoid strenuous activity and rest properly if you experience altitude sickness symptoms or feel unwell.
- Consider taking medication like Diamox that helps to prevent or reduce the risk of AMS symptoms.
Accommodation & Meals During the Trek
Accommodation
Highland Expedition manages all logistics from Kathmandu to Pokhara and throughout the trek to Annapurna Sanctuary. In Kathmandu, we arrange our clients’ logistics at Kathmandu Guest House, where they’ll spend three nights. In Pokhara, our clients stay in Hotel Dandelion, a three-star hotel. Additionally, we manage local tea houses throughout the trek that offer basic yet comfortable accommodation. Likewise, trekkers stay in tea houses along the trek for nine nights.
Furthermore, some trekkers prefer a single supplement, which is possible only at Kathmandu and Pokhara’s Hotels. Due to the limited accommodation points and rooms, we won’t be able to provide you with a single supplement service. Still, we pair trekkers with fellow trekkers of the same sex. However, the price of a single supplement is extra for travelers in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Meals
Along with accommodation, Highland Expedition provides meals for our clients throughout the journey to Annapurna Sanctuary. We manage three meals daily (B, L, D) during the trekking phase and in Pokhara. Yet, in Kathmandu, we provide only breakfast during arrival and breakfast plus lunch before departure, allowing travelers to taste a variety of cuisines. Some common breakfast options are porridge, muesli, eggs, hot beverages, and toast. Dal Bhat, Momos, and Thukpa, as well as fried rice and some Western-style dishes, are served at the tea houses for lunch and dinner.
Furthermore, we suggest you avoid eating meat during the trek as it is not fresh. Likewise, we suggest not consuming alcoholic beverages and caffeine, as they lead to dehydration, which impacts altitude-related issues. Additionally, we recommend trekkers drink 3-4 liters of water daily as proper hydration is important while trekking to high altitudes and helps fight acute mountain sickness.
Difficulty of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is a moderate difficulty trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Likewise, with proper preparation and a moderate fitness level, trekkers can smoothly complete the trek. Still, trekkers with a good fitness level can also complete the trek. Reaching the highest elevation at 4,130m above sea level, the trek lies in the yellow zone in terms of altitude sickness. Moreover, the factors that add to the trek’s difficulty include steep ascent and descent sections, quite high elevations with a risk of altitude sickness, varied terrain, and a multi-day trek that involves walking for 5-6 hours daily.
Media Archive of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Feedbacks on Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
See what our travelers are saying! Our reviews highlight the memorable experiences and exceptional service we offer. Read their stories to find out why our adventures are so highly praised. Write a review.
Breathtaking Views
Breathtaking Views
A thoroughly enjoyable, well planned and balanced trek to Annapurna Sanctuary. Combined with Poonhill, the trek was fantastic and we had an opportunity to explore more of the region. The panoramic mountain view from the top of Poonhill is breathtaking.
Great First Trip with a Well-Planned Itinerary
Great First Trip with a Well-Planned Itinerary
This was my first visit to Nepal and thanks to Passang and his team on the ground, it was filled with lifetime memories that I will treasure forever. Well planned itinerary, proper safety backup, great logistics and excellent team. A wonderful experience; varied and eventful.
First Trip to Nepal Was Unforgettable—Highly Recommend!
First Trip to Nepal Was Unforgettable—Highly Recommend!
I had the most wonderful first experience of Nepal through Highland Expeditions. Passang and crews attention and personal care ensured it was a safe and memorable adventure.
I highly recommend them
