Annapurna Base Camp 4130 m, commonly known as Annapurna Sanctuary is a popular hiking destination in the hidden pocket of the western Himalayas. It is a hidden valley amidst the towering snowclad mountains, including the world's tenth highest peak Annapurna (8091m) along with Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and Fishtail or Machhapuchhre(6993m) with its microclimatic zone.
With a drive of around one and half hours from the touristic city of Pokhara to Nayapul, the Annapurna Sanctuary trek follows upstream of the bank of Modi Khola river, along the paddy fields and traditional stone thatch-roofed villages. ABC is a unique versatile trekking trail that can be combined with Ghorepani Poonhill,
Mardi Himal Trek, or the infamous Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Most of the trail is composed of stone steps with plenty of climbs and descends making it a challenging yet refreshing experience as the Annapurna base camp trek goes through the forests of Rhododendron, Bamboo, Pine, Oak, and finally into Alpine meadows beside the rocky moraine. Throughout the trekking journey magnificent scenery of snow mountains, gorges, and villages, along with chances of encountering wildlife species, make this trek a memorable experience.
Located in the Annapurna Conservation Area, this trek is a perfect amalgamation of the cultural and natural wonders of the Gandaki Province of Nepal. Gurung ethnic villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong are major settlements in the region with the majority of the Gurung community along with other occupational ethnic groups like Damai, Kami, and others.
Hinduism and Buddhism fused with nature-worshipping culture is a major highlight, with a shamanic background. People are mostly dependent on tourism, agriculture, and foreign employment. The traditionally built houses with stone roofs incorporated with Western standard facilities are ideal for tourists' and travelers' comfort. Food is mixed with local produce and imported products, providing a wide variety of menus including local and international dishes.
