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Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers many attractions apart from the thrill of getting close to the highest mountain in the world. You get a glimpse of beautiful sceneries, mountains, and wildlife and witness Himalayan festivals. Some of these attractions are:
Pokhara
Pokhara lies at the base of ABC Trek and is simply an amazing hill town. Simply enjoying the landscape around Pokhara – the view of the mountains, beautiful lakes, and hills is a great experience. The views of Annapurna (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/ 26,795 ft), Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), and Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft) entices you from different corners of Pokhara. Likewise, the Lake Cluster of Pokhara Valley, adding to the beauty of the ambiance, is the cherry on top.
Adventure sports are also available here. A good day hike to Sarangkot can be taken from here, and while at it, you can also enjoy paragliding or Parahawking. Other attractions include Davis fall, Gupteswar Gupha, International Mountain Museum, and Peace Stupa.
Pokhara also boats a great selection of food and fun nightlife. There are also high-quality spas, yoga, and meditation studios. Exploring Pokhara before and after your trek might just be the perfect way to spend the holidays.
Why is Pokhara beautiful?
Pokhara’s beauty stems from the backdrop of Himalayas – the Annapurna (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/ 26,795 ft), Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), and Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft). Reflection of especially, the Macchapuchhre peak at Phewa lake makes it spellbindingly beautiful.
Why is Pokhara famous for?
Pokhara is called the city of lakes. Pokhara is also known as one of the best paragliding destinations globally because of the spectacular mountain and lake views and stable current.
Highlights of Pokhara
Enticing views of the Annapurna (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/ 26,795 ft), Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), and Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft).
Lake Cluster of Pokhara Valley.
Adventure sports such as paragliding, zip flyer, hot air balloon.
Fun nightlife and good food selection.
Ghandruk
Ghandruk is a small and beautiful Gurung village in the Annapurna region. The hike is easy and exciting and gives you a glimpse into the Gurung lifestyle. The hike offers stunning views of Annapurna (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft), and Himal Chuli (7,893 m/ 25,896 ft). There is also the Gurung Museum, which offers a lot of information about Gurung culture, religion, occupation, and overall history.
Chhomrong
Chhomrong is a popular stop for ABC trekking. Reaching Chhomrong is one of the most hectic parts of the entire ABC trek, but steep uphill is well worth the trip. Especially in the morning when the sun rises, you can enjoy wonderful views of Himchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft), and Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft). Chhomrong also consists of several shops selling trekking goods and souvenirs.
Muktinath
Located at an altitude of 3,800 m/ 12,467 ft, Muktinath is one of the highest altitude temples in the world. It is significant to two religious groups, Hindus and Buddhists. This is the 106th most important temple of Lord Bishnu in 108 Divya Desam or the Divine Land. Svayam Vyakta Ksetras is a central shrine, meaning self-manifesting. Likewise, for Buddhists, it is believed that the temple is inhabited by Dakinis, an entity that embodies movement and energy. They also believe that the central statue is a manifestation of Avalokiteśvara (literally "lord who gazes down (at the world)"). It is believed to be the embodiment of the passionate compassion of all Buddha.
Deurali and Himalaya
Himalaya (2,900 m/ 9514 ft) and Deurali (3,230m/10,597ft) are both small villages mainly inhabited by Gurung. These are stopovers for the ABC trek with a few guesthouses. To reach Himalaya, you need to take a hike downhill through Chhomrong. Once you reach the steel suspension bridge, you need to hike uphill. From Deurali, you can enjoy a wonderful view of Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft). This part of the hike can be tiring, but the beautiful scenery and mighty mountains will motivate you.
Dhampus Phedi
Dhampus is a picturesque village inhabited by the Gurung ethnic group. Famous for its typical Gurung lifestyle, warm hospitality, beautiful views of mountains, hills, and terrace farming. From here, you can enjoy views of the Annapurna Mountains, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and Macchapuchhre (6,993 m). If you hike from March to April, the rhododendrons will be in full bloom and the scenery will be picturesque. Dhampus can be reached after an hour's hike from the Australian Camp, which is an hour's hike from Kande, the starting point of the trek. Phedi is a two-hour descent from Dhampus. The overall hike is beautiful and offers pleasant views and easy hiking conditions.
Macchapuchhre Base Camp
The Macchapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) lies at an altitude of 3,700 m/ 12,139 ft and can form a part of the ABC trek. MBC offers views of Macchapuchhre (6,993 m) and Gangapurna (7,454 m), as well as beautiful views of the narrow valleys of the Modi Khola River. The trail offers a journey on a pristine trail with lots of adventure and excitement.
Ghorepani Poon Hill
Ghorepani Poon Hill is famous for sunrise and sunset views and panoramic views of the mountains Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft), Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft), Himchuli (6,441 m/ 21,132 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft), Dhampus Peak (6,012 m/ 19,725 ft), and Dhaulagiri II. It is one of Nepal's classic short treks. The trail passes through a beautiful rhododendron forest. Poonhill is one of the best viewpoints for spectacular mountain views.
Interesting facts about the Poonhill
- Lying at an elevation of 3193 m/ 10,475 ft, there is no chance of altitude sickness while undertaking Poon Hill Trek.
- The trails head through rhododendron forests, juniper, oak, birch, etc.
- The area is mainly inhabited by the Gurung ethnic group known for their bravery and hospitality.
- There are no hotels in the main Poon Hill, so an early morning hike to Poon Hill is done from Ghorepani.
- The trek can be done year-round.
What mountains can you see from Poon Hill?
From Poon Hill, view of Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft), Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft), Himchuli (6,441 m/ 21,132 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft), Dhampus Peak (6,012 m/ 19,725 ft), and Dhaulagiri II can be enjoyed.
Can you see Annapurna from Poon Hill?
Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft) and Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft) can be enjoyed from Poon Hill.
Can you drive to Poon Hill?
Poon Hill can be reached with a two-hour drive from Pokhara. The road through a bit bumpy at times, but it is a fun ride along the hillside. A jeep is taken for the journey.
How long is the Poon Hill Trek?
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek can be done in 5 days.
Annapurna Conservation Area
Annapurna Conservation Area is the largest protected area in Nepal, encompassing 7,629 sq. km/ 2,946 sq. mi. Its elevation ranges from 790 m/ 2,590 ft to the peak of Annapurna I at 8,091 m/ 26,545 ft. The natural beauty stems from the spectacular views of the Himalayas and thriving wildlife. Likewise, ethnic people who have been living in these lands for generations live in these areas.
Its ecosystem ranges from subtropical Sal forest to sub-alpine meadows and even trans-Himalayan cold deserts. Encompassing 22 different types of forest and serving as the habitat of many wildlife, the area is a thriving paradise of many endangered and rare species.
Diverse ethnic groups reside here. In the south are Gurung and Magar, whereas the northern regions are home to Thakali, Manage, and Loba. A mix of religions is practiced here, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Bon religion, a pre-Buddhist Tibetan religion.
Where is Annapurna Conservation Area situated?
Annapurna Conservation Area is situated in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas across Western Nepal. It is spread over five districts: The Manang, Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi, and Lamjung.
When was Annapurna Conservation Area established?
Annapurna Conservation Area was established in 1985 and gazette in 1992.
Which plants are found in Annapurna Conservation Area?
From sub-tropical Sal trees to alpine species such as junipers and rhododendrons, 1,352 plant species are found in the region. Among them, 55 plants are endemic to Nepal.
What animals live on Annapurna?
Annapurna is home to many rare and endangered species such as snow leopard, Chinese Pangolin, clouded leopard, musk deer, etc. Altogether 128 species of wild mammals and 518 species are found here.
What is special about the Annapurna region's wild honey bees?
The region is home to the Himalayan giant honey bee (Apis laboriosa). They make their large nests only in the southwestern faces of vertical cliffs. In the spring, these bees make honey from flowers in higher altitudes. The honey produced is called red or spring honey and is very intoxicating. This and its other relaxing effects decrease in storage. Due to this, it is very valuable. Its wholesale price is about five times higher than regular honey. They are exported to Japan, Korea, and Hong Kong.
Annapurna Base Camp
Offering a 360-degree view of the astonishing Annapurna Massif including the Annapurna I (8091 m/ 26,545 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft), Gangapurna (7,454 m/ 24,449 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft), Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft), Singa Chuli (6,501 m/ 21,328 ft) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m/ 21,132 ft) the Annapurna Base Camp is the most spectacular place. Unlike the Everest Base Camp, you will get to stay here and enjoy the majestic views of the peaks.
Why is Annapurna Base Camp popular?
- Annapurna Base Camp is popular because:
- It offers a panoramic view of the Annapurna Massif.
- You get to pass another Base Camp on the way to ABC, which is the Macchapuchhre Base
- Camp (MBC) at 3,700 m/ 12,139 ft.
- Beautiful prayer flags adorn the Base Camp adding to the spiritual vibe of the surrounding.
What is the altitude of the Annapurna base camp?
Annapurna Base Camp is located at 4,130 m/ 13,546 ft.
Can you take a helicopter to Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp can be reached by helicopter. From Pokhara, it is just a 30 min ride to the lap of the majestic Annapurna Massif.
Which mountains can I see from Annapurna Base Camp?
ABC provides spectacular view of Annapurna I (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft), Gangapurna (7,454 m/ 24,449 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft), Macchapuchhre (6,993 m/ 22,943 ft), Singa Chuli (6,501 m/ 21,328 ft) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m/ 21,132 ft)
Kagbeni
Kagbeni is a unique picturesque village of Baarah Gaun, which translates to twelve villages situated in the Mustang district of Nepal. The village has characteristics of a fortress town with two Khenis meaning the ghost eaters guarding the gates. It formed the route of the ancient "Salt Trade" that flourished between Tibet and Nepal. Primitive practice such as the practice of animism is still in practice here. This was long before the advent of Tibetan Buddhism. Views of impressive huge Chortens, traditional flat mud roofed houses, and prayer flags spread throughout add to the beauty of the place.
What is Kagbeni famous for?
Kagbeni is famous for religious reasons and natural and cultural beauty. Hindus and Buddhists both find religious importance in this village. Likewise, there are important Buddhist monasteries and temples located here for Buddhists. Besides, Kagbeni is a picturesque village with wheat fields spread out, Buddhism prayer flapping in the wind, Chorten, and prayer wheels adding to the mystic ambiance.
How high is Kagbeni?
Kagbeni is located at 2,804 m/ 9,199 ft. It is located in the valley of the Kali Gandaki River.
What to do in Kagbeni?
Visit Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Gompa, an important monastery of the Shakya Pa sect.
Visit Kag Khar Ruined Palace of Kag Khar dynasty
Visit Devthen Chorten, a shrine of a Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava)
Join in celebrating four annual festivals, Chhongu, which is the new year's celebration in January. Dhajyang festival is a festival for prosperity and good harvest in April/May. Fangel festival is celebrated for good health in August, and Yartung, a horse racing festival immediately after Fangel.
Muktinath Temple
Muktinath is a temple of worship of both Hindus and Buddhists. It is Lord Vishnu's temple. Hindus consider Muktinath as one of the four Hindu religious sites in Nepal. Likewise, it also falls in the 106th among the Sri Vaishnava sect's 108 Divya Desam (premium temples). Muktinath is an important place for Buddhists of dakinis, goddesses known as Sky Dancers. It is one of the 24 Tantric places. Their main idol is considered an embodiment of all Buddha's compassion.
Where is Muktinath situated?
Muktinath is located at the foot of the Thorong La Pass in Mustang, Nepal, at 3,710 m/ 12,172 ft.
What is the best time to visit Muktinath?
The best time to visit Muktinath is during Autumn during September, October, and November.
What is Muktinath famous for?
Muktinath is a famous place of pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists. 'Mukti' means salvation, and 'Nath' means God. It is a place revered to wash away sins of life.
How many taps are there in Muktinath temple?
There are 108 water spouts at Muktinath. The water from the Kali Gandaki river directly flows here. Two holy water ponds – Laxmi and Saraswoti Kunda are also located in front of the temple.
Nar Phu Valley
Since 2003, the Nar Phu Valley has remained a relatively uncharted region in Nepal, having only opened to tourists. The valley lies close to the Tibetan border and remains a restricted region in Nepal. It is a hidden gem that provides trekkers with a mix of natural beauty and ancient Buddhist culture. These religious sites include Nar Phedi Monastery, Tashi Gumba, Bhraka Monastery, Samdu Choling Gumba, and Yunkar Gumba.
The trail to Nar Phu valley passes through dense pine forests, waterfalls, river crossing, and small caves. Mountain views provide company all the way long. Some of such mountain views include Annapurna II (7,937 m/ 26,040 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m/ 16,818 ft), Gangapurna (7,454 m/ 24,449 ft), and Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/ 23,406 ft).
The village lifestyle has remained little changed. During the day, villagers can be seen going about their daily ways, such as spinning yak and sheep wool, making a paste out of mustard seeds, and doing other chores. Women chatting and weaving wool fabric with back-strapped looms can be also be seen during the day. It is a quiet simple life that remains frozen in time when the rest of the world has moved forward with restlessness.
Highlights to Nar Phu Valley trek
- Marveling at the ancient Tibetan-derived cultural practice.
- Enjoying majestic views of Annapurna II (7,937 m/ 26,040 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m/ 16,818 ft), Gangapurna (7,454 m/ 24,449 ft), and Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/ 23,406 ft).
- A chance to visit a restricted region nestled in the Trans Himalayan region
- It was getting acquainted with living in an ancient village that has remained unchanged or little changed over the centuries.
Gangapurna Lake
Gangapurna Lake is a glacial lake in the Manang district situated at 3,540 m/ 11,614 ft. It is formed by glaciers from Gangapurna (7,454 m/ 24,449 ft), Annapurna IV (7,525 m/ 24,688 ft), Khangsar Kang (7,485 m/ 24,557 ft) and Glacier Dome. The lake is beautiful and has different colorful appearances during different seasons. This makes it worthwhile to visit it at different times. The lake appears cyan during the spring and autumn. While in the monsoon, it appears white. In the winter, it gets covered in snow.
The trail to Gangapurna Lake passes through beautiful rhododendron forest, pine and fir forests, and terraced farmlands. Traditional Manang village is passed along the way. Likewise, chortens, prayer stones, and monasteries also fall, adding a mystic vibe. Along the trails and from the lake itself Views of Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Annapurna I (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m/ 26,040 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft), Annapurna IV (7,525 m/ 24,688 ft), Tilicho peak (7,134 m/ 23,406 ft), Pisang peak (6,091 m/ 19,984 ft), and Chulu West (6,419 m/ 21059 ft), Chulu East peak (6,584 m/ 21,601 ft), and Thorung peak (6,100 m/ 20,013 ft) can be enjoyed.
Tilicho Lake
Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an elevation of 4,919 m/ 16,138 ft. The beauty of the lake stems from its turquoise color and views of one of the highest peaks in the world. On the trails and from the lake itself views of Annapurna I 8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/ 26,795 ft), Khangsar Kang (7,485 m/ 24,557 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/ 23,166 ft), Tilicho peak (7,134 m/ 23,406 ft) amongst others can be enjoyed. The lake also has religious importance.
Is Tilicho Lake the highest lake in the world?
The highest lake in the world is Ojos del Salado at 6,390 m/ 20,965 ft, located in the Andes on the Argentina–Chile border. Tilicho Lake is the highest lake of its size in the world. Its maximum length is 4 km/ 2.5 mi, maximum width is 1.2 km/ 0.75 mi, and surface area is 4.8 sq. km/ 1.9 sq. mi and is located at an elevation of 4,919 m/ 16,138 ft.
Why is Tilicho Lake famous?
Tilicho Lake is renowned for its beauty and also for religious significance. The turquoise coloured lake is surrounded by snow peaks such as Khangsar Kang (7,485 m/ 24,557 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/ 23,166 ft), Tilicho peak (7,134 m/ 23,406 ft) amongst others.
Is Tilicho a glacier lake?
Tilicho is a glacier lake formed by glacial melting from the slopes of northern Annapurna.
What is the height of Tilicho Lake?
Tilicho Lake is situated at an elevation of 4,919 m/ 16,138 ft.
Thorong La Pass
One of the highest mountain passes in the world, the Thorong La pass, is located at an elevation of 5,416 m/ 17,769 ft. It is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit. It is formed by two mountains, Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang. The pass connects Manang village with Muktinath and Ranipauwa village.
From the pass and on the trail itself, stunning views of Lamjung Himal (6,983 m/ 22,910 ft), Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft), Annapurna IV (7,525 m/ 24,688 ft), Gangapurna (7,525 m/ 24,688 ft), Pisang peak (7,525 m/ 24,688 ft), Chulu West (6,419 m/ 21059 ft), Tilicho peak (7,134 m/ 23,406 ft) Tserko Ri (4,984 m/ 16,352 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/ 23,166 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/ 26,795 ft) amongst others. Conquering Thorong La Pass is a challenging trek but not impossible. The challenge stems from the incredible altitude of its location.
Is Thorong la the highest pass in the world?
East Col (6,146 m/ 20,164 ft) pass located in the Makalu Barun area of Nepal is the highest pass in the world. Thorong La pass is one of the highest passes in the world at an elevation of 5,416 m/ 17,769 ft.
How hard is Thorong La Pass?
Thorong La Pass is a challenging trek but doable under good weather conditions. At its elevation of 5,416 m/ 17,769 ft, roughly half of the oxygen at sea level remains available. This makes for a challenging trek, but it can surely be scaled with enough preparation.
Tatopani Hot Spring
At the banks of Modi Khola lies the Tatopani Hot Spring consisting of three main pools. Each of these pools has a different temperature, and a dip can be done based on preference. It is just a short 15-20 minutes hike down from the village of Jhinu Danda. Tatopani lay near the end of the ABC trek and nestled at the bottom of the Modi Khola river canyon.
‘Tato’ means hot and ‘pani’ means water, Tatopani means hot water. Tatopani Hot spring is believed to have healing power and take away the body's aches and pains. Its location makes it perfect for getting relief from the aches brought down from the ABC Trek. Taking a dip into this natural spring is quite certain to take away all the tiredness and pain experienced during the trek.
Mount Annapurna
Annapurna is a massif consisting of six peaks. Annapurna massif contains six prominent peaks these include Annapurna I (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m/ 26,040 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/ 24,786 ft), Annapurna IV (7,525 m/ 24,688 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/ 23,684 ft), and Gangapurna (7,525 m/ 24,688 ft).
7 Fast Facts about Mount Annapurna
- Annapurna means everlasting food. The Hindu goddess of food and nourishment is said to reside here.
- Annapurna is the 10th highest peak in the world.
- It consists of six prominent peaks.
- The first 8,000 m/ 26,200 ft peak summited, and the least climbed.
- It is considered the deadliest mountain to climb, with a fatality rate of 32%.
- It is situated inside the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- The Annapurna range is home to some of the highest lakes in the world, such as Tilicho Lake (4,919 m/ 16,138 ft) and Khayer Lake (4,660 m/ 15,289 ft).
What is Annapurna known for?
Annapurna I (8,091 m/ 26,545 ft) is the 10th highest peak. It is known as one of Nepal's most accessible and popular treks. But climbing Annapurna is a whole other story. Annapurna is known as the deadliest mountain in the world.
Has anyone climbed Mount Annapurna?
Mount Annapurna has been climbed multiple times. Sixty-seven climbs were conducted in 2021 alone. Annapurna was first summited in 1950 by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal, belonging to the French Annapurna expedition. Herzog himself led this.
Is Annapurna the hardest mountain to climb?
Annapurna is among the hardest mountain to climb. It has an unpredictable climate and remains covered in snow throughout the year. It receives high-velocity wind and snowfall in any season, making it tough to climb.
Is Annapurna mountain the deadliest?
With a fatality rate of 32%, Annapurna is certainly the deadliest mountain to climb.
Where is Annapurna peak?
Annapurna is located east of the Gandaki River in Nepal.