The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is suitable for a
first trek to the Nepal Himalayas for reasonably fit participants and can be
done in 12 days. This was the first trek we went on back in 1983. In those
days, there were no lodges beyond the lovely hill
The trek now starts beyond Pokhara where the
road goes all the way up the Yamdi Khola to Phedi and saves a couple of days of
trekking time. Beyond Chomrong, you trek up the narrow valley towards and enter
the famed Annapurna Sanctuary by day 5 or 6. Inside the Sanctuary you will be
surrounded by immense peaks forming a amphitheatre on three sides. The most
prominent peak is Machapuchhare or
If you have more time and are more
adventurous it is possible to undertake day treks from the Annapurna base camp
and head towards the trekking peaks of Tent Peak or the other higher peaks in
the area e.g. Glacier Dome. Be prepared for precarious and tough climbs down
and across the Annapurna South Glacier and beyond. Bring along your trekking
guide to show you the way and carry enough water and a packed lunch.
See my climb of tent peak
for more information on the Annapurna Sanctuary and hiking on the Annapurna
South Glacier.