Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Private Trip
8 Nights 9 Days Price starting from USD 750
USD 610

We Offer Group Discount

No. of Persons Price per Person
1 Pax $ 700
2 Paxes $ 610
3 - 6 Paxes $ 550
7 - 12Paxes $ 525
13 - 25 Paxes $ 500
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Dates & Price
Destination
Nepal
Accomodation
Hotel, Lodge and Tea house
Walking Distance
115 km
Duration
8 Nights 9 Days
Max. Elevation
4130m
Meals Included
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Best Season
March-May August-November
Grade
Decent

Overview

The Annapurna Sanctuary also known as ABC Poon Hill Trek is a fantastic 9-day Annapurna balcony hike that gives us two amazing experiences in a single trip. It takes you through the beautiful Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chhomrong villages & dense rhododendron forest to Annapurna base camp. Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is an extension of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with the inclusion of places like Ghorepani, Poonhill and Ulleri, among others. ABC Poon Hill Trek offers us both the famous sunrise view from Poon Hill and the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Highlights:
    • Experience trekking to not one but two base camps: Machhapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m | 12,140 ft) and Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m | 13,550 ft).
    • Enjoy stunning mountain scenery with panoramic views of over 15 peaks from Poon Hill (3,210 m), including four 8000m giants: Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Manaslu, and Annapurna II.
    • Trek through a diverse range of landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests and terraced rice fields to alpine meadows and glacial moraines.
    • Witness the traditional way of life and rich culture of the Gurung and other local communities in villages like Ulleri, Ghandruk, and Chhomrong.
    • Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, a popular spot for trekkers to soothe their muscles.
    • Enjoy homestay options in villages like Chhomrong, Sinuwa, and Ghandruk, living like a typical Nepali.
    • Witness various birds and wildlife during your trek through the forests.Witness breathtaking sunrises over the Annapurna massif from both Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp.
    • Create unforgettable memories of your Himalayan adventure in Nepal that will last a lifetime.

Trekkers Information for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

    Annapurna Sanctuary Circuit Trek, Trekkers Information

    The Annapurna region is famous all over the world as one of the best trekking routes. Scenic beauty coupled with the friendliness of the local people of the villages on the way, this trek is bound to be in your memories forever. Further, with a maximum elevation of 4130 meters at the base camp, it is not a challenging trek. The average Annapurna Sanctuary Trek distance is just 115 km which can be easily covered in 12 days.

    As you hike on this route, you’ll go through rhododendron forests, cultural villages, lush green hills, and rocky slopes and ridges. So, Annapurna Sanctuary Trek has everything for you to enjoy. However, we will not pass through Thorong La Pass during this trek.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Overview:

Our Annapurna Sanctuary Trek starts in Pokhara, after a quick drive to Nayapul, and we start our walk from there. From there, we trek to Ulleri and then to Ghorepani. We'll walk through forests full of colorful rhododendron flowers and visit mountain villages where we can meet friendly local people and see their local mountain life.

One of the first exciting moments during the Annapurna Sanctuary trek is hiking up to Poon Hill. It's a bit of a challenge, but totally worth it! From the top, you get to see the sun rise over some of the world's tallest mountains, the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri ranges. It's the kind of view that makes us feel tiny but also fills us with wonder about the mysteries of Mother Nature.As we keep walking, the scenery changes a lot. 

We start in green, lush forests and slowly make our way up to rocky mountain paths. The main destination of our Annapurna sanctuary trek is the Annapurna Base Camp. It sits high up in the mountains, surrounded by huge snow-covered peaks. Standing there, you'll see massive mountains like, Annapurna I (Main) (8,091 m), Annapurna I Central (8,051 m), Annapurna I East (8,010 m), Annapurna Fang (7,647 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Khangsar Kang (7,485 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Tarke Kang (7,202 m), , Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gandharba Chuli (6,248 m) and Machhapuchchhre (6,993 m) up close, and be surrounded by huge snow-filled peaks from all sides. It's a moment that makes all the tiredness disappear and trekking worthwhile.

This trek is great for people who love nature and you don't need to be a professional trekker for this trek, but you should be fit and ready for some tough hiking days. The good news is, you can take it slow and enjoy the journey if you add additional days to the Itinerary

Along the way, you'll sleep in simple but cozy teahouses, eat delicious local food, and maybe make some new friends from around the world. It's not just about the mountains – and nature it's also about the people you meet and the experiences you share.

By the end of our 9 days Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, we'll have seen some of the most beautiful places in Nepal, pushed ourselves to new limits, and created memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. The ABC Poon Hill Trek is more than just a hike – it's an adventure that shows you the heart and soul of the Himalayas.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Route: 

The ABC Poon Hill Trek offers a diverse journey through the Annapurna region, blending cultural experiences with stunning mountain landscapes of both Poon Hill and ABC. This circular route takes trekkers from lush forests and terraced fields to high-altitude terrain, showcasing the varied ecosystems of the Himalayas. The trek includes iconic viewpoints like Poon Hill and culminates at Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks. Along the way, trekkers experience traditional Nepali villages, rhododendron forests, and the dramatic scenery of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Route Key points:

  1. Starts in Pokhara, drive to Nayapul
  2. Ascends through villages to Ghorepani
  3. Poon Hill Sunrise viewpoint
  4. Enters Annapurna Sanctuary
  5. Reaches Annapurna Base Camp
  6. Returns via different routes with hot springs

ABC Poonhill Trek Total Trekking Distance

The ABC Poonhill trek covers a substantial distance over varied terrain, challenging trekkers with both distance and elevation gain. Daily distances vary based on the day's objectives and the terrain's difficulty, with some days focused on altitude acclimatization and others on covering greater distances.

Key points for ABC Sanctuary Trek:

  1. Total distance: 70-75 km (43-47 miles)
  2. Duration: 9 days
  3. Average daily distance: 8-10 km
  4. Longest day: ~15 km (ABC to Bamboo)

Trekking Distance and Duration Table for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek:

Day
Itinerary
Distance(km)
Trek Duration(hrs)
1
Pokhara - Nayapul (Drive)
Nayapul - Ulleri
42 km
12 km
1 hrs
4 - 5 hrs
2
Ulleri - Ghorepani
8 km 
5 - 6 hrs
3
Ghorepani - Poonhill
Ghorepani - Tadapani
1.5 km
9.7 km
45 minutes
5 - 6 hrs
4
Tadapani - Chhomrong
7.6 km
5 - 6 hrs 
5
Chhomrong - Dovan
11 km
5 - 6 hrs
6
Dovan - MBC
7 km
4 - 5 hrs
7
MBC - ABC
3 km
1.5 - 2 hrs
8
ABC - Bamboo
16 km
6 -7 hrs
9
Bamboo - Jhinu Danda
Jhinu Danda - Pokhara (Drive)
8.5 km
48 (by Jeep)
5 - 7 hrs
2 - 3 hrs

 


Annapurna Sanctuaty Trek Driving Distance and Total Duration

The trek includes short drives at the beginning and end, bookending the hiking experience. The majority of the 9-day itinerary is spent on foot, with ample time allocated for acclimatization, rest, and enjoying the surroundings.

Key points:

  1. Pokhara to Nayapul: 40 km (1 hour)
  2. Matque to Pokhara: 45 km (2-3 hours)
  3. Total program duration: 9 days
  4. 7 full trekking days

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Difficulty Level and Elevation

This trek is considered moderate to challenging, with significant elevation changes and varying terrain. It requires good physical fitness and mental preparation. The route passes through multiple climate zones, from subtropical lowlands to alpine environments, with temperatures and conditions changing accordingly.

Key points:

  1. Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
  2. Elevation range: 1,070m to 4,130m
  3. Total elevation gain: Over 3,000m
  4. Key challenges: Steep ascents/descents, high altitude, varied terrain
  5. Weather: Varies from warm lowlands to near freezing at ABC

 

Best time to trek for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Spring Season (March to May):

Spring offers an excellent trekking experience on the ABC Poon Hill route. The weather is mild and stable, with clear skies providing spectacular mountain views. The trail comes alive with blooming rhododendrons, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Daytime temperatures are comfortable for trekking, while nights remain cool.

  1. Peak season with optimal weather conditions
  2. Rhododendron forests in full bloom (March-April)
  3. Clear mountain views, ideal for photography
  4. Moderate temperatures: 10-20°C (50-68°F) during the day
  5. Required gear: Light to medium layers, rain jacket

Autumn Season (September to November):

Autumn is the most popular season for the ABC Poon Hill trek. Post-monsoon weather brings stable conditions with clear, crisp air. The skies are typically cloudless, offering unobstructed views of the Annapurna range. The comfortable temperatures and dry conditions make for ideal trekking.

  1. Prime trekking season with the best weather
  2. Exceptional visibility for mountain views
  3. Stable and dry conditions
  4. Comfortable temperatures: 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the day
  5. Required gear: Warm layers for evenings, sun protection

Winter Season (December to February):

Winter brings colder temperatures and the possibility of snow, especially at higher altitudes. While challenging, winter treks offer a unique, serene experience with fewer crowds. Clear days provide crisp mountain views but prepare for very cold nights.

  1. Cold temperatures, especially at night
  2. Possibility of snow on the trail, especially near ABC
  3. Fewer trekkers, more solitude
  4. Daytime temperatures: 5-15°C (41-59°F), much colder at night
  5. Required gear: Warm insulation layers, quality sleeping bag, winter boots

Summer/Monsoon Season (June to August):

The monsoon season is the least favorable time for the ABC Poon Hill trek. Heavy rains can make trails slippery and obscure mountain views. However, the landscape is lush and green, and there are significantly fewer trekkers.

  1. Frequent rainfall and possible trail disruptions
  2. Lush green landscapes, but often cloudy views
  3. Higher risk of leeches and insects
  4. Warm and humid: 20-25°C (68-77°F), cooler at higher altitudes
  5. Required gear: Waterproof clothing, good boots, insect repellent

Why Book Annapurna Sanctuary Trek North Nepal

North Nepal Trek stands out as an exceptional choice for booking your ABC Poon Hill trek. As a local agency run by Himalayan natives, they offer an unparalleled blend of expertise, authenticity, and flexibility. Their deep-rooted connection to the region ensures that trekkers receive not just a guided tour, but a rich, immersive experience that goes beyond the typical tourist path.

Why choose North Nepal Trek for your ABC Poon Hill trek:

  1. Guide Expertise: Local certified trained guides with in-depth knowledge of the terrain, culture, and hidden gems of the Annapurna region.

  2. Local Agency: Run by locals who live in the Himalayas, providing authentic insights and supporting the local economy.

  3. Flexibility: Customizable itineraries catering to any age group, ensuring a trek that matches your pace and preferences.

  4. Cultural Immersion: Unique opportunities to engage with local communities, thanks to the agency's strong regional connections.

  5. Safety First: Guides are well-versed in high-altitude safety protocols and emergency procedures.

  6. Sustainable Tourism: Commitment to eco-friendly practices and supporting local communities along the trekking routes.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: A Little Bit of Everything

The Sanctuary Trek starts from Nayapul Ridge which is about 41 km from Pokhara. Our trek is in the protected site of the Annapurna Conservation Area which is also the largest protected site in Nepal. Moreover, we begin our trekking from the beautiful city of Pokhara. We follow a path of dense forest, terraced land, and traditional Gurung villages.

Annapurna Sanctuary trek ensures that you have fun, satisfaction and a new-found and outstanding perception of our culture. It is certainly one of the most beautiful treks in Nepal.

You’ll enjoy some easy-paced hiking along with sundry landscapes that will fulfil your every adventure thirst. You’ll encounter a variety of forests, vegetation, and wildlife. Relish in the warmth of nature as you explore some ancient cultures and traverse through rhododendron forests. You’ll forget your worries and feel a sense of tranquillity.

Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill are the major attractions of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. The Base Camp allows you to be face to face with the majestic mountains, while Poon Hill provides you with some fantastic views of the mountains along with splendid sunrise and sunset. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Itinerary will provide you with more details about the places. A healthy reminder, you need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project ) permit to probe this place.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Photo

Trekkers heading towards Ghorepani village through the ulleri village. Mt. Hiunchuli 6441 meters is seen on the background.
Scene seen from Poonhill before the sunrise time.
The early morning Pokhara to Jomsom flight passing near from the Poonhill view point 3210 meters
Trekkers spending their beautiful time in the South Annapurna Base Camp. Snow capped Annapurna-I 8091 meters is seen on the background.
Thai trekkers smile after the submit of Annapurna Base Camp 4130 meters.
North Nepal Trekking guide with guest and local women on the stairs during taking a rest.
father and daughter enjoying the view of Annapurna range from ABC during Poonhill-ABC trek captured by North Nepal Trek
Female trekker posing infront of Lake near ABC during Annapurna base camp trek.
Village view with greenery along with terraced fields captured by North Nepal Trek during ABC trek.

Annapurna Sanctuary ( Poonhill- ABC) Trek Itinerary

  1. day 1

    Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri (2080m)

  2. day 2

    Ulleri to Ghorepani (2775m)

  3. day 3

    Ghorepani Hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani (2540m)

  4. day 4

    Tadapani to Chhomrong

  5. day 5

    Chhomrong to Dovan

  6. day 6

    Dovan to Machhapuchhre Base Camp

  7. day 7

    Machhapuchhre Base Camp Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

  8. day 8

    Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,340 m)

  9. day 9

    Bamboo to Jhinu Dada hotspring & Drive back to Pokhara

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Map and Altitude Graph

everest base camp trek map

WHAT’S INCLUDED

    • Teahouse accommodation during the trek.
    • We provide 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) and Tea / Coffee twice daily. Please note that each meal is served as a single serving.
    • Transport before & after the trek. ( Pokhara to Nayapool ) & ( Jhinudanda to Pokhara )
    • Professional English-speaking, Eco Trained trekking guide his food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine, transportation etc.
    • Sleeping Bag and Trekking sticks  (If needed & to be returned after trip completion).
    • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS).
    • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader).
    • All government and local taxes.
    • Trek achievement certficates after the completion of the trek.

WHAT'S EXCLUDED

  • Other transportation except Included in the section.
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • International flights fare.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.).
  • Tips & Gratitudes for Guide & Porter
  • Additional costs or delays caused by management out of control like landscape,  bad weather conditions, in case of itinerary modification with a view to a safety concern, illness,  change of government policy, political instability raises strike, moment etc.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned in including section.

Note:

You can include porter ( carries upto 20 kg ), with an extra cost of $ 25 per day.

You decide what is best & we’ll take care of the rest

  • The itinerary mentioned is a standard guideline. We can readily modify it according to your needs and requirements.
  • The cost of the trek can also be changed according to your group size, needs, and time boundary.
  • You can easily add additional activities to the Itinerary. You just have to let us know before confirming the trip.
  • This trip can also start in the capital city of Kathmandu. You have to let us know if you want to begin there. In that case, the Itinerary will extend by a few days. Consequently, the cost will also increase.
  • The addition or removal of activities will increase or decrease the cost of the trip respectively. This will be done through mutual understanding between the agency and the client(s).

 

Trekking equipment for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek combines both Poonhill and Annapurna Base Camp, so you need to pack accordingly.
To check the detailed packing list, click here, and as you will be traveling early morning during the PoonHill sunrise, you can take a headlight. Remember to pack accordingly for 10 - 12 days for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek.

Written by: Mohan Bhandari

ABC Poon Hill Trek Informations:

Food and Accommodation on the trails

Food on the mountain is a crucial aspect of your trekking experience. Teahouses offer a variety of dishes, but it's advisable to stick to local Nepali cuisine. These meals are not only more authentic but also provide the right balance of carbohydrates and proteins needed for trekking. We strongly recommend avoiding Western food options, as they may not be prepared to the same standards you're accustomed to, and might lead to stomach issues that could hinder your trek.

Typical meal options:

  1. Breakfast: Tibetan bread, chapati, porridge, eggs, pancakes

  2. Lunch: Dal Bhat (lentils and rice), momos (dumplings), noodle soup

  3. Dinner: Dal Bhat, vegetable curry, sherpa stew, garlic soup (good for acclimatization)

Accommodation is basic but comfortable, with twin-sharing rooms in teahouses. Blankets are provided, but bringing a sleeping bag is recommended for extra warmth and hygiene.

Permit requirements

Obtaining the correct permits is essential for legal and environmental reasons. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) supports conservation efforts in the region, while the TIMS card ensures trekker safety.

  1. ACAP: NPR 3000 per person

  2. TIMS: NPR 2000 for individual trekkers, NPR 1000 for those in groups

  3. Available in Kathmandu or Pokhara; bring passport photos and copies

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Insurance:

Proper insurance is not just a precaution; it's a necessity for high-altitude trekking. Ensure your policy covers:

  1. High-altitude trekking up to at least 4,130m

  2. Emergency evacuation, including helicopter rescue

  3. Medical expenses in Nepal

  4. Trip cancellation and gear loss

  5. Alway read the fine print and understand your coverage limits.

Tips to avoid altitude sickness

Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Prevention is key:

  1. "Climb high, sleep low" principle: Trek to a higher altitude during the day, but descend slightly to sleep

  2. Acclimatization days are crucial; don't skip them

  3. Recognize early symptoms: headache, dizziness, loss of appetite

  4. If symptoms persist, descend immediately

  5. Consider carrying portable oxygen or Diamox (after consulting a doctor)

Frequently Asked Question

March-May and October-December are the peak seasons to do the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. During March-May, the weathers are usually clear and most of the hills are covered with green vegetation and blooming Rhododendron. Also, snowfall is pretty common in this season. The clearest and mind-boggling view of the Himalayas can be seen from October to December as the skies are very clear with no rainfall and meagre fog. However, the trekking routes are usually more crowded from October to December than in any other season. Trekking is often very difficult during monsoon because the trails are muddy and slippery so, there is a high chance of injury or accident.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is one of the popular treks among trekkers so, tea houses are very common in most places of this region. Several options are available for the food so, the guest can savour the cuisine according to their taste. As for the lodgings, each visitors get a single room but in some cases, they have to share their room. In conclusion, we can say that the facilities for food and lodgings are not the problem on this journey.

This trek is accessible for both older people and children. There is a very low chance of getting altitude sickness so, with minimal care and caution, anyone can easily complete this trek. This trek offers a unique view of Rhododendrons-filled hills as well as an enchanting view of the high Himalayas, which is a perfect spot to fill the thirsty mind of youths.

Yes, you must have an ACAP ( Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ) permit which costs US$ 30 per person. The officials will check your permit and other necessary documents at the entry point.  Similarly, this permit lasts until you leave Annapurna Area.

This trek is moderately challenging. Most trekkers can complete this trail with extra caution and attention. This journey is suitable for beginners too.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Company Reviews

2023-01-10

Trek with North Nepal Travels & Treks

I was trekking in March 2020. with North Nepal Travels & Treks. Our trekking route is Poon Hill and ABC. Everything was perfectly organized and my guide Shiva Bhandari was very knowledgeable. He talked a lot about local customs and culture. Next time I will choose them again.

Michał D
2024-11-07

Amazing experience

Oct 2024 • Couples

We spent 9 days on the amazing Annapurna Sanctuary trek with our brilliant guide Gobinda. We always felt as though we were in safe hands and enjoyed every aspect of our hike.

Tom P

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