• Duration 10 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate

    The moderate grade includes a one-week to fifteen-day itinerary. It can reach up to 5000 meter altitude range, but the trails will be moderate (neither easy nor tough). High altitude may affect walking speed and distance. You need to have acclimatization over 3000 meters.

  • Country Nepal

Annapurna Sanctuary trek is an adventurous 10 days trip to the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna. This trek is famously known as the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is one of the most loved trekking programs in Nepal and done by hundreds of trekkers every year.

Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, you will travel west of Kathmandu to the beautiful city of Pokhara and take a short drive from here to the lovely Ghandruk village to start the journey in the mountains. The trail goes through picturesque Nepali villages and terraced fields, followed by rhododendron forests and lush cliffsides.

The trail gradually ascends along the Modi Khola. It takes you into the heart of the Annapurna Himalayas, where giant mountains like the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tukuche Peak, and many others reside.

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek route is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to many Nepali indigenous communities, a huge range of vegetation, and diverse species of animals and birds. The Annapurna Sanctuary is a high glacial basin that is located over 4,000 meters within the conservation area.

You will enter the sanctuary on the fifth day of the trek while walking from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp. The entrance to the sanctuary involves a narrow valley between Mt. Fishtail and Mt. Hiunchuli. The Annapurna Sanctuary is surrounded by the Annapurna range; therefore, it receives only seven hours of daylight hours.

The south slopes of the sanctuary are covered with dense forests of rhododendrons and bamboo, and the north-facing slopes are a rain shadow area, so the climate is cold and dry, like the Tibetan plateau. This diversity allows you to discover a wide variety of vegetation, climatic zones, and landscapes.

Highlights

  • Explore the bustle of Kathmandu and Pokhara, two popular tourist cities in Nepal
  • An adventurous 10-day trip to the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna
  • Trek through picturesque Nepali villages and terraced fields, followed by rhododendron forests and lush cliffsides
  • Explore the western Himalayan mountains and witness stunning views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, etc
  • Discover the rich vegetation of Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Enjoy warm hospitality and the rich cultural heritage of different Nepalese communities
  • Witness breathtaking landscapes along the trail

Why should you do the Annapurna Sanctuary trek?

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is a short trek. So, consider this trek if you are bound by time and want to do something adventurous and life-changing in less than 12 days. Likewise, those who love pretty scenery, snow-capped mountains, warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and wilderness will also love the Annapurna Sanctuary trekking.

The journey is incredible and embodies most elements of Nepali heritage and landscapes. You will have ample time to enjoy the spectacular surroundings and indulge in local Nepali food. Depending on the time of the year you are trekking, the scenery will have a different specialty.

The rhododendron in spring makes the landscapes heavenly, while autumn carries the joy of Nepalese festivals. In winter, snow covers the entire region, and the teeming vegetation and overflowing rivers and streams are the beauty of the summer/monsoon season.

When you trek, it does make a difference in the overall trekking experience, so make sure to pick your trekking time wisely.

How to prepare for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek?

Preparation for a trek in the Himalayas involves a few things, like arranging trekking clothes and gear, getting physically and mentally ready for the journey, and booking the trek on time. First of all, as per your fitness, book the trek a few weeks before departure.

During this time, exercise and gradually build long-term habits. Your stamina, strength, and endurance should be good if you want to enjoy the trek to the fullest. Likewise, also spend some time learning about the trail. Set the right expectations and pack all essentials.

Annapurna Sanctuary trek packing list

Follow the below list to pack for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek 10 days:

  • Comfortable, light-weight underwear
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants
  • Base and thermal layers
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • Fleece jacket
  • Down jacket
  • Gloves, socks, scarf, beanie, sun hat, etc
  • Trekking boots and a casual pair of shoes/slippers
  • Duffel bag and daypack
  • Trekking pole, map, reusable water bottle
  • Sleeping bag
  • Toiletries, first aid, snacks (SPF, lip balm, wet tissues, toilet paper, deodorant, moisturizer, crack bandage, insect repellent, muscle cramp spray, nuts, bars, etc)
  • Camera, adapter, charger, power bank
  • Journal/pen and traveler games (optional)
  • Cash, documents

Why should you do the Annapurna Sanctuary trek with us?

We recommend us for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek because of our more than three decades of experience in organizing this trek. We are aware of all the little details involved during this trek, and our guides are experts in leading travelers to the Annapurna Base Camp.

You will have a very comfortable journey. Our team will ensure there are no issues during the trek. You will pay an affordable Annapurna Sanctuary trek price with us and get top-notch service.

We can also help you curate a custom Annapurna Sanctuary trek itinerary to match your requirements and budget. Bookings are open for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek 2025. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us anytime.

Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Our team will be at the airport as per your landing schedule to welcome you to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. You can spot them with your name card and our company's banner. They will escort you to the hotel and help you with your luggage.

The remaining day is free. Get rest and explore the lively streets of Thamel. You will leave for Pokhara early in the morning tomorrow, so make sure you are packed.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast in your hotel and meet your guide in the lobby. He will be taking care of your needs during the trip. The ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara will be quite comfortable, and the views will keep you entertained.

In Pokhara, you will have the evening free. Explore the serenity of Phewa Lake and the bustle of Lakeside Market. If you need to purchase any trekking essentials, this is your last chance.

  • Max Altitude: 820 m/2,690 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast & lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 205 km/127 miles

Today, you will drive to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village. The trek starts from here. The road is smooth in the first few hours, then gradually, the off-road starts as you climb the hills to reach the village.

Have some snacks in Ghandruk and follow an uphill forested route to Chhomrong village. The trail offers beautiful views of Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South mountains.

  • Max Altitude: 2,170 m/7,119 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 9.8 km/6 miles

The next stop after Chhomrong is Bamboo. You will walk down to Chhomrong Khola and cross it using a bridge. From here, trek through forests of rhododendron, bamboo, and oak.

Soon, you will reach Upper Sinuwa and follow rugged tracks to Khuldigar.

The views of Annapurna and Fishtail are fantastic on the way. It is a downhill walk from Khuldigar to Bamboo.

Bamboo onwards, you will descend through a forest and pass by Dovan and Himalaya settlements. From here, you will climb a steep track to Deurali.

  • Max Altitude: 3,200 m/10,499 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 7-8 hours
  • Distance: 21 km/13 miles

As you walk onward, Deurali, the trail gradually gets steeper, narrow, and rocky. You will enter Annapurna Sanctuary. Enjoy the greenery of the sanctuary until the treeline fades away, and you can see barren hills, glaciers, and snow-capped mountains surrounding you.

Before reaching Annapurna Base Camp, you will walk past Machhapuchhre Base Camp. There are a few lodges a few hundred meters below the glacier, where you will spend the night.

  • Max Altitude: 3,700 m/12,139 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Distance: 7.7 km/ 4.7 miles

From today onwards, your downhill walk starts. Start the day with a warm cup of tea and a delicious breakfast at the base camp. After that, you will follow the same route back to Bamboo. Pass by Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan settlements on the way.

  • Max Altitude: 2,310 m/7,578 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 14 km/8.6 miles

Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, it is mostly downhill walking. The trail descends to Kimrong Khola and goes through rhododendron forests. The mountain views along the way are lovely.

Once you reach Jhinu Danda, you will have some time to rest. Then you can go to the natural hot springs and spend some time enjoying them. It will cost a few bucks. Make sure to carry a comfortable swimsuit.

  • Max Altitude: 1,780 m/6,393 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Duration: 3/4 hours trek
  • Distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles

Today is your last day of trekking, From Jhinu Danda the trail descends towards the river where we will cross a long suspension bridge, longest of the whole trip. After crossing the bridge we begin to hike uphill. On our way we drive alongside the Modi Khola River. Around an hour hiking and 03-04 hrs driving. Lunch will be in Pokhara and after lunch leisure time. Get rest and buy souvenirs. If you are in a lot of pain, visit a massage center or spa.

  • Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Distance: 01 Hour Trek and 3-4 hours drive

While returning back to Kathmandu, we have added a flight. You will reach Kathmandu in 25 minutes. Now, you can choose at what time you want to fly to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you at the hotel. As it is your last day here, do not forget to explore the local markets, visit a few tourist sites, and buy souvenirs.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 25 minutes

Our team will drop you off at the international airport according to your flight departure time. They will bid you our last goodbyes and best wishes.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Cost Details
Included
  • Arrival and Departure Transport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.
  • Duffel Bag using for Trekking.
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house during the trekking.
  • Kathmandu Pokhara drive.
  • Pokhara Kathmandu flight.
  • Pokhara Ghandruk Transport.
  • Jhinu Pokhara Transport.
  • Trekking Porter with Insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter for 02 Pax).
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekking guide and porter's food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • First Aid kit.
  • Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Region map.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit fee.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • Farewell dinner with cultural program.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • All Government taxes.
  • Office service charge.
Excluded
  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance (Better to have a Helicopter rescue up to (4,130 M).
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 50 for 30 days you should get visa open your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.
Essential Information

Annapurna Sanctuary trek difficulty

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is not that difficult. However, as it is a multi-day hike through the lush hills and rugged terrain of the Annapurna Himalayas, the journey is considered moderate in terms of difficulty.

The trail does not involve challenging climbing, but you will ascend and descend a lot. Likewise, you will travel in different climatic zones and face high altitudes every day. Beginner trekkers can do the Annapurna Sanctuary trek if they are well-prepared.

Decent fitness is required with determination. Another thing to remember is that Annapurna Sanctuary is a remote trek. So, the accommodation, meals, and other services along the trail will be limited, unlike what you get in the city.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is something that travelers face while trekking or on any high-altitude trip. If you do not come from hills and mountains, your body is not acclimatized; hence, you may suffer from altitude sickness.

How to avoid it?

The only way to avoid altitude sickness is by acclimatizing and ascending slowly. The Annapurna Sanctuary trek sees minimal altitude gain under 500 meters a day.

Therefore, you will have plenty of time to get used to the elevation and do not need an acclimatization day. Be aware of symptoms like headache, vomiting, nausea, difficulty breathing, dizziness, loss of appetite, etc.

Drink plenty of water, have lots of food to maintain energy throughout the day, and get ample rest at night.

Trek permit

We have shared the Annapurna Sanctuary trek permits and their fees below. For your information, the permit costs are included in our package cost, so you do not have to pay additional money.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  • NPR 200 per person for SAARC nationals
  • NPR 3,000 per person for other citizens
  • Children below 10 years do not require an ACAP permit

TIMS Trekkers Permit

  • NPR 2,000 per person for independent trekkers
  • NPR 1,000 per person for organized treks through an agency
  • NPR 600 per person for SAARC nationals

Accommodation and meals during the trek

The accommodation during the Annapurna Sanctuary trek is the simple lodge. Shared rooms are common, and single rooms have high rates. In places like the Himalaya Hotel, ABC, etc, you may not get a single room, especially during peak trekking seasons.

Both Western and squat-style toilets are available throughout the way. Usually, washrooms do not come attached to the room. Other services like charging, WiFi, and hot water for showers cost a few extra bucks, ranging from USD 1 to USD 7.

The package cost does not cover these expenses, so you must carry some money during the trek. Meal options are fantastic. You will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the package cost and can buy extra snacks and drinks on your own.

Some common foods during the trek are dal bhat, thukpa, momo, soups, porridge, pancakes, rice pudding, fried rice, chapati, etc.

Travel insurance

Foreign trekkers have to get travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation and medical bills to join the Annapurna Sanctuary trek with us. Even though the trek is safe and we rarely do evacuation, it is good to have a backup while traveling in the Himalayas.

Travel insurance covers the major expenses involved during the rescue and medical expenses, which will save you a lot of money and allow you to get assistance on time.

*All trekkers have to give us their travel insurance documents before the trek starts. Without the travel insurance, we may cancel the trip, and there will be no refund.

Best time to do the Annapurna Sanctuary trekking

There are four seasons in Nepal: autumn, winter, spring, and summer/monsoon. In these four seasons, autumn and spring have the optimal trekking conditions, so they are known as the best time to do the Annapurna Sanctuary trek.

Winter and summer/monsoon trek is also possible, but there will be added weather nuances. Choose the time that best matches your requirements. We organize the Annapurna Sanctuary trek throughout the year, so there will be no worries.

Spring makes the scenery extremely beautiful, with rhododendrons and many other wildflowers and vegetation. Autumn is the essence of Nepalese festivals and celebrations. Winter carries the magical snowy landscapes, and summer/monsoon is when plants, rivers, waterfalls, and streams thrive.

FAQs

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is moderately difficult. It is one of the beginner-friendly multi-day hiking programs in Nepal. Basic fitness, good health, determination, and 5 to 6 hours of walking each day are required.

You can complete the Annapurna Sanctuary trek in 10 days. If you have time to trek more, combine the excursion to Ghorepani village and Poon Hill viewpoint.

Yes, the Annapurna Sanctuary trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek are the same. You will follow the same itinerary and reach the base camp of Mount Annapurna, the tenth-highest mountain in the world, on both treks.

Yes, the Annapurna Sanctuary trek is for beginner trekkers. The trail is adventurous but not that challenging. If you enjoy walking in nature, enjoying the mountain lifestyle, and enjoying beautiful landscapes, you will love the trek and can complete it.

Yes, you will get to sleep at the Annapurna Base Camp, which is not the case during the base camp treks in Nepal, including Everest Base Camp.

Yes, you can definitely customize the Annapurna Sanctuary trek itinerary with us. Freely share your requirements and what you are looking for during the trek, and we will customize the trip accordingly.

Let us know if you want to do additional activities in Kathmandu and Pokhara during your trip.

In Kathmandu, you can go for Everest Experience Flight, EBC Helicopter Tour, City Tour, Day Hiking, Indoor Climbing, Cycling, Pottery, Cooking Class, etc.

Likewise, in Pokhara, you can do Paragliding, Ultra-light Mountain Flight, Bungee Jumping, Zip-lining, Cooking Class, etc. Options are limitless; let us know what you want to experience.

Yes, you can bring your kids for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. Make sure to analyze their fitness and whether they can travel in remote mountains without modern conveniences before booking the trip. Talk to us for more information.

During trekking, you can store extra luggage in your hotel's locker room in Kathmandu or Pokhara or at our office in Kathmandu. This is a free service.

You can tip USD 2 to USD 4 to the driver and 15% to 25% of the package cost to the guide and porter.

Yes, you will need some change money while trekking to buy services like hot water for showers, WiFi, charging, and extra food and drinks. There is no ATM on the Annapurna Sanctuary trek route, and locals do not accept card payments. So, withdraw money in Pokhara or Kathmandu.

The sleeping bag is not mandatory for the trek but will make your trip more comfortable. You can buy a sleeping bag or rent one in Pokhara at a very minimal cost.

If you are healthy, can walk 5 to 6 hours a day, and adjust to limited mountain facilities, you can do the Annapurna Sanctuary trekking.

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