The Annapurna SanctuaryTrek is the perfect getaway in the world-famous Annapurna regionof Nepal. It is the perfect trek for travelers on a time crunch, but are unwilling to leave Nepal without locking eyes with the majestic Himalayas (rightfully so!). Within days of leaving the blissful lakeside city of Pokhara, find yourself at the bottom of an amphitheater of mountains. All around you lie some of the highest mountains in the world, including Annapurna I (8091 meters/26,545 feet).
The climax of our trek, though, would not be possible without a little work (and fun). We first hike through terraced hillsides, through small villages with lots of character. The morning after arriving to Ghorepani, we wake up early and hike to what just might be one of the best mountain views you have ever seen. The excursion leads us up to Poon Hill (3210 meters), a most marvelous viewpoint, just in time to see the first light of the day shine upon the majestic peaks.
From Poon Hill, we can see a jaw-dropping panorama of Annapurna (8091m), Hiuchuli (6441m), Machhapuchhre (6993m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), and Manaslu (8156m), all of which are in the top ten highest mountains in the world! Snap some photos, though the eye sees the view best, and head back down.
Up and onwards, the scenery is constantly changing. Subtropical forests, packed with bamboo, rhododendron and oak trees, turns into a barren, rocky, environment. Before we know it, the magical moment of arriving to Annapurna Base Campcomes. Get your cameras ready, because this is a moment you will want to look back on forever. Still, be present and enjoy the precious moment of simply being in the presence of these colossal peaks. From here, witness Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Barahi Shikhar, Tharpu Chuli, Gangapurna,Hiunchuli, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhre in all their beauty.
Even at this point, the journey is not yet over. Retrace the path back to the point we started, taking in the different perspective. Though it’s the same path, we are looking at the landscape with a fresh set of eyes.
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is doable for adventurers of all ages! You do not need to have ever trekked before to take on this beautiful journey. There are several steep ascents and descents on stone stairs, but there is no need to rush these. Taking our time, enjoying the scenery, you will be fine. The highest point reached is Annapurna Base Camp, which lies at an altitude of 4,130 meters. As high as that is, we have plenty of time to acclimatize beforehand.
You can take the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek all throughout the year. The best times to take the journey, though, are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. They provide the best weather and clearest skies, not to mention that during the springtime, rhododendron and other flowers are in bloom. Third Eye Adventure Pvt. Ltd. handles the trek with complete management. If you have any questions about the trek, do ask!
