About Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Country
Nepal
Duration
11 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Activity
Trekking
Max. altitude
4,130 m / 13,550 ft
Best season
Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Accommodation
Tea house and lodge
Meals
Included
Start/End point
Kathmandu
The Annapurna Sanctuary lies 40 kilometers north of Pokhara in a high glacial basin. This oval-shaped plateau stands at an elevation of approximately 4000 m. The Annapurna range mountain surrounds this beautiful plateau, most of which are above 7000 m. Outsiders did not enter the Sanctuary until 1956 because the sole entry was a tiny valley between the peaks of Hiunchuli and Machapuchare, where run-off from glaciers drains into the Modi Khola River.
The unusual mix of heights and depths on the 5-7 day trip into the Annapurna Sanctuary creates an incredible range of habitats.
The south-facing slopes are "covered in lush tropical forests of rhododendron and bamboo." In contrast, the rain-shadowed north-facing slopes have "a drier cooler climate comparable to that of the nearby Tibetan Plateau."
Our trek follows the valley of the Marshyangdi river through lush paddy fields, countless little streams, waterfalls, and gorgeous towns until entering the high desert area at Manang, 130 kilometers west of Kathmandu, where we will spend the night (3597 m.). Although the trek gradually gains height, reducing the risk of altitude sickness, we spend a day acclimating before crossing the Thorang-La pass (5416 m.). Before heading down to Muktinath, one of Nepal's holiest pilgrimage sites for Buddhist and Hindu people, we ascend early from a high lodge camp to cross the Thorang-La (tremendous high mountain feelings).
Trip Duration: 14 Days Trip Grading: Strenuous Max Altitude: 5416 meters Best Time: Mid Feb to May and Oct to mid-Dec. Trip Mode: Lodge & Camping trek. Group Size: Min. 2 / Max.12 + Above
Highlights of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Trekking
80 km
Stay
10 nights in tea houses and lodges
Mountains visible
Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli
Altitude gain
1,760–3,700 m (5,774–12,139 ft)
Destinations
Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, Annapurna Base Camp
Activities
Tea house stays, Sherpa and Himalayan village visits, Sunrise viewpoints, Prayer flags, stupas and monasteries
Seasonality for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
The best months to go are shown in green and the months to avoid in red. Weather in the mountains can change at any time of year, so ask us about your dates.
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar (best)
- Apr (best)
- May (best)
- Jun (unfavourable)
- Jul (unfavourable)
- Aug (unfavourable)
- Sep (best)
- Oct (best)
- Nov (best)
- Dec
Best seasons: Mar–May, Sep–Nov (shown in green color)
Unfavourable seasons: Jun–Aug (shown in red color)
Altitude Profile of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Detailed Itinerary of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
After arriving in Kathmandu, our representative will pick you up from the airport and take you to the hotel.
We fly early in the morning to Pokhara, a lovely lake city, and have fantastic views of the Himalayas from the right side of the aircraft. When we arrive in Pokhara, we drive to Naya Pul to begin the hike. We trek from Birethanti to Ghandruk, a picturesque hamlet mostly populated by the Gurung ethnic group.
We hike for almost an hour to reach Kimrungdanda. Great views of Ganggapurna, Hiunchuli, Fishtail Mountain, and Annapurna South are available. We make a rapid descent to reach the Kimrong Khola. We trek to Chhomrong after a brief descent, following another incline from Kimrong Khola to Chere Danda.
We cross the bridge over Chhomrong Khola after descending the 2500 stone stairs. It is an uphill journey to Sinuwa from here. Then, after walking downhill to Bamboo, we travel through a lovely forest on the way to Kuldihar.
We rise slowly after passing through a wet and chilly bamboo jungle. Amazing views of the glacial river will be available to us. Before reaching Hinku Cave, there is a difficult ascent through a forest. The route descends from here toward the river before re-climbing to Deurali. Since there is less greenery, it is possible to see the valley and the river below.
We ascend gradually through a riverbed before ascending steeply to the hill. It's a challenging walk from Bagar to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. We get spectacular views of the beautiful Machhapuchhre as well as Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gandharvachuli, and Gangapurna from Machhapuchhre base camp. On our route to base camp, the foliage fades, and the trail expands as we approach the Annapurna sanctuary. From here, we get breathtaking views of Annapurna's south face, which is almost vertical and towers above us. We can take magnificent views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and other peaks from the base camp.
We go back the way we came from the Annapurna base camp to Bamboo. The route is downhill.
It is an uphill climb from Bamboo to Kuldighar and then a downward stroll to Chhomrong Khola. We then ascend Chhomrong's stone steps. The route then declines to Jhinu Danda, our overnight stop.
From Jhinu Danda, we go to Naya Pul while taking in the distinctive western Nepali landscape. Our 6-hour journey on foot comes to an end in Naya Pul, where we board our car for Pokhara. The trip to Pokhara takes an hour
We fly to Kathmandu in the afternoon. After arriving in Kathmandu, we will drop you at your hotel.
Our representative will drop you off at the airport.
What's included and excluded
What's included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle
- Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Licensed trekking guide and porters
- Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
- Tea house and lodge accommodation on the trail
- Trekking permits and national park fees
- Domestic flights or transfers as listed in the itinerary
- First-aid kit and 24/7 support from our office
What's excluded
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Extra nights in the city because of early return or flight delays
- Hot showers, battery charging and Wi-Fi on the trail
- International flights and visa fees
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry and phone calls
- Tips for guides, drivers and staff
- Meals not mentioned in the program
- Any costs caused by weather, strikes or other events beyond our control
Equipment and things you need
Clothing
- Down jacket (warm enough for below -10 °C)
- Waterproof shell jacket and trousers
- Base layers and a fleece
- Warm hat, sun hat, gloves and buff
Footwear
- Broken-in waterproof trekking boots
- Spare socks (wool or synthetic)
- Light shoes or sandals for the lodge
Gear
- Sleeping bag rated for the altitude
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection and sun cream
- Refillable water bottle and purification tablets
Health and papers
- Personal first-aid kit and your regular medication
- Travel and rescue insurance covering your maximum altitude
- Passport, spare photos and copies of your documents
Frequently asked questions
You should be comfortable walking for several hours a day on uneven ground, with some steep climbs. Regular cardio and hill walking in the weeks before you travel makes a big difference. Ask us if you are unsure about a route.
Most mountain routes need permits and park or area entry fees. We arrange the ones your route needs; the quote lists what is covered.
Walk slowly, drink plenty of water and sleep lower than the highest point you reached that day. The itinerary includes acclimatisation time where the route needs it. Tell your guide straight away about headache, nausea or dizziness. If symptoms get worse, the safe response is to descend.
See the equipment list on this page for the essentials. We can also advise on what to hire in Kathmandu.
Yes. We build itineraries around your interests, dates and budget. Tell us what you would like to change and we will send a revised plan with the price.
Yes. Your trip is led by licensed guides. Chinese, Hindi, Spanish and English-speaking guides are available on request, so tell us your language when you enquire.
A booking amount (30% of the total) secures your trip and the balance is settled before departure. The full terms are in our Booking and Cancellation Policy. Read the policy
Pick any start date when you request a booking. We confirm availability for those dates before taking a payment.
Customer reviews
Tripadvisor
5.054 reviews · 5.0 rating
Perfect
Creative Adventure Nepal provides excellent service and truly professional support in the tourism industry. Their team is friendly, knowledgeable, and well-organized, making every trip smooth, safe, and memorable. From planning to execution, everything is handled with care and passion. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an amazing travel experience in Nepal!
1 / 54
5.042 Google reviews
- Anil GuptaOct 03, 2024
Service is very good
- Krishna BhusalJul 07, 2024
Awesome experience with the group. Thank you Creative Adventure team.
- Shyamala Narayanan (Shammu)Jun 02, 2024
It was an excellent and memorable trip arranged by creative adventure. We were 15 family members planned for pilgrimage trip but later combined adventures too for the sake of our kids. From the arrival and till departure, Ramesh Ji ‘s support was excellent. He was able to reach even at night for some emergencies. Excellent vehicles were provided and especially kind and experienced drivers were arranged. Because of the change in climatic conditions , our flight got cancelled and we were supposed to do road travel. We afraid a lot but the drivers were really experienced and helped us a lot in all aspects. Food arranged in hotels were really good. ( Only concern was they could have separated veg n non veg in different places n not on the same counters). Especially chef in landmark Kathmandu was so kind n prepared food specially for us. Cultural village in Janakpur also provided homely n decent food. We had a great n enjoyable trip all over. Thanks Ramesh Ji for arranging everything. We definitely recommend Creative adventure to everyone.
- dharmesh vyasMay 26, 2024
Excellent Service and nice arrangement by him, Vehicles and Service Staff also very supportive.
- Santa Bir GhisingMar 24, 2024
A Perfect travel solution .
- Suchitra Ravi BalasubramanyamNov 30, 2023
Team did a great job in ensuring an enjoyable and memorable holiday for us despite the Dashain season. They accommodated itinerary changes as per our request. Provided best guides and drivers for the entire trip. All in all, a goto travel agency for the Nepal tours!
- Yetkha PressJul 03, 2023
Very trustworthy travel services:
- Ilinca RaduJul 02, 2023
I had a fantastic experience with Creative Adventure Nepal! Would recommend 100%. Very professional and friendly staff, handled every detail of my trip impeccably.
- ADITYA DAGAJun 24, 2023
It was an amazing trip
- gurjeet dhillonJun 24, 2023
It was an unforgettable experience in our journey to Nepal through Creative Adventure Nepal Pvt. Ltd. To be honest, from my departure and till my arrival, I have given great support and guidance throughout my journey. Ramesh Sir, had taken much responsibility in fixing the resorts, hospitality, food and travel. Really happy from the bottom of the heart for selecting Creative Adventure Nepal Pvt. Ltd, they even follow up whether everything is happening as per plan…Once again, thanks for the excellent service offered from Creative Adventure Nepal Pvt. Ltd
- swara Tours PackagesJun 20, 2023
dear Mr. rameshji { md } Excellent knowledge in every management systems religious, curricular activities – Professional business activity development intelligence to all-round creative strength growth, determination of in professions , Best Quality, your innovations and ideas for a stimulating trip into a reality. created in their life memorable experiences, many enjoyable exciting at our tours & packages which is remember in their future life. provided best probability our guest
- Ramesh PandeyJun 20, 2023
I recently embarked on an exhilarating 8-day trip to Nepal with Creative Adventure Nepal, and I must say it was an experience of a lifetime. From the moment I arrived in Kathmandu until the final goodbye, every aspect of the trip was meticulously planned and executed, exceeding all my expectations. Overall, my experience with Creative Adventure Nepal was nothing short of exceptional. They provided a seamless and unforgettable adventure, showcasing the natural wonders of Nepal while ensuring our safety and comfort at every step. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking an authentic and thrilling adventure in this magnificent country. My heartfelt thanks to the entire team at Creative Adventure Nepal for making my trip truly extraordinary. I look forward to returning to Nepal with them in the future for another incredible journey.
- Deepraj RaiJun 20, 2023
It was a very nice experience with Creative adventure during our tour in Nepal in June 2023. Special thanks to Mr.Ramesh for overall guidance which made us hassle free and memorable trip in Nepal.
- Shrikant DixitJun 20, 2023
We had a great experience with Creative Adventure in Nepal. They handled all our travel & stay arrangements. They also made necessary arrangements for adventure trips like paragliding and visit to Annapurna Base Camp. Both the events were fantastic and once in a lifetime experiences.
- Naya NepalMar 02, 2023
Service was reasonable and trustable.highly recommended for travel all over nepal.Ramesh was aways there if needed.
- sayem hossainNov 17, 2022
Chitwan trip was highlighted on my trip to Kathmandu. Just book landmark forest park at chitwan from this company.
- Hazi NakborJul 16, 2022
Best tour copmany in kathmandu.
- Prajay MallaJul 29, 2019
They have very good hospitality. My friends from Japan enjoyed a lot throughout their trip here in Nepal. Thank you very much :D
- milind navaleJan 24, 2019
Best travel company in kathmandu for group bookings.Thank you guys for looking after.
- Asia Explore AdventureNov 13, 2017
Creative Adventure Nepal
- TravellerJul 16, 2025
Rated 5 out of 5
- Blue spiritMay 21, 2025
Rated 5 out of 5
- Prakash KharelJun 10, 2024
Rated 5 out of 5
- Anirudhan RMay 29, 2024
Rated 5 out of 5
- Raahhul MVMay 29, 2024
Rated 5 out of 5
- Kamala PandeySep 02, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5
- Hotel Family home KathmanduJul 05, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5
- Sojib ShafiqulJul 05, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5
- Samrat SupplyJun 25, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5
- sarik thapaNov 17, 2022
Rated 5 out of 5
- Kathmandu Hotel Yambu Thamel ThamelFeb 17, 2020
Rated 5 out of 5
- Umanga ManandharFeb 17, 2020
Rated 5 out of 5
- Angle GueungFeb 11, 2020
Rated 5 out of 5
- karma wangyalJul 29, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- Roberto GurungJul 29, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- Nancy BistaJul 28, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- Amrit PandeyJul 19, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- Ramesh PandeyJul 16, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- CN PandeyJul 14, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- usha hiremathFeb 26, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- BBC TreksJan 28, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
- RonnyJan 22, 2019
Rated 5 out of 5
