Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, leads into a natural amphitheatre of snow peaks at 4,130 metres, ringed by Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and the iconic fishtail summit of Machhapuchhre.
Unlike the longer Annapurna Circuit, this trek stays within the southern Annapurna Conservation Area, moving through forested ridgelines and traditional Gurung and Magar villages rather than crossing a high mountain pass.
The route begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, climbing the well-known stone staircase to Ulleri before continuing through rhododendron forest to Ghorepani, with an optional early-morning detour to Poon Hill for one of Nepal’s most celebrated sunrise views.
From there the trail descends into the Modi Khola valley through Tadapani and Chhomrong, the last major village before the sanctuary itself, then follows the narrowing gorge through Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, and Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and finally Annapurna Base Camp. The return trip drops back down to Jhinu Danda, where natural hot springs offer a well-earned soak before the trail out.
Permits for this trek are issued under Nepal’s Department of Immigration Trekking Permit system, alongside the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
For the longer, full circuit version, see our Annapurna Circuit Trek and if you’d prefer a shorter trek with the same sunrise viewpoint, see our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Highlights
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), an amphitheatre of peaks including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Gangapurna
- Enjoy sweeping views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), one of Nepal's most recognisable peaks
- Optional sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) over the wider Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Walk through traditional Gurung and Magar villages including Ghandruk and Chhomrong
- Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after the descent from base camp
- Trek through rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forest across a wide range of elevations