Overview
The Annapurna Sanctuary is a high glacial basin ringed by Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machapuchare. Annapurna Base Camp sits at 4,130 m at its heart.
The trek starts near Pokhara and climbs through rhododendron forest and terraced Gurung villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong before entering the narrow upper valley. Teahouses along the route provide food and beds, and most trekkers take seven to ten days for the round trip.
Highlights
- Ghandruk and Chhomrong, traditional Gurung villages
- Machapuchare Base Camp on the way up
- Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by peaks
- Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda on the descent
Best time to visit
March to May and October to November. Spring brings rhododendron blooms, and autumn has the clearest skies. Winter and early spring carry a risk of avalanches in the upper valley, and the monsoon from June to September brings heavy rain.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Good
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Best
- MayMay: Best
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Good
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Best
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Kathmandu (KTM), then travel to Pokhara (PKR) by short flight or tourist bus. From Pokhara, a taxi or jeep reaches the trailhead at Nayapul or beyond.
What to expect
Moderate to demanding: long, stair-heavy days and a final climb above 3,500 m. Teahouses are simple but plentiful. Allow time to acclimatise, and be flexible with your timetable if weather or snow conditions change.
Practical tips
- Check avalanche conditions on the upper stages, especially in winter and early spring.
- Carry cash in Nepali rupees, as there are no ATMs on the trail.
- Plan the descent via Jhinu Danda to soak tired legs.
- Confirm current conservation-area permit requirements before you start.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Annapurna Sanctuary trek take?
Typically seven to ten days from Pokhara, depending on your route and pace.
How does it compare with Everest Base Camp?
It is shorter, lower in altitude and easier to reach, with a flight-free start from Pokhara. The scenery is a different style: a closed amphitheatre of peaks rather than an open glacier valley.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Samrat Khadka on Unsplash.
