Short Annapurna Sanctuary for - 11 Days

Tour Info

trip code

E-034

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/ Tea House

Max Altitude

4130m

Duration

11 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Challenging

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

March , April, October, November

Overview

The Short Annapurna Sanctuary for 11 Days is a rewarding Himalayan trekking package that combines mountain scenery, cultural heritage, and diverse natural landscapes within a comfortable timeframe. This trek is situated in the Annapurna Conservation Area and it enables you to get to the Annapurna Base Camp - one of the most famous high-altitude destinations in Nepal. The Annapurna sanctuary is surrounded by towering peaks which helps to create a natural amphitheater that attracts the trekkers from all around the world.

During the journey, the landscape changes from subtropical forests and terraced hills to alpine lands and glaciated areas. Along the way, you see rhododendron and bamboo forests, waterfalls and rivers. You can also find traditional communities of Gurung and Magar people along the route, where local customs, architecture, and hospitality offer a rich cultural experience.

The highest of the Short Annapurna Sanctuary for 11 Days is Annapurna Base Camp. From here, you can witness panoramic views of mountains like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Gangapurna peaks. Depending on seasons, different views may be enjoyed with flowering rhododendrons in spring and mountain view in autumn.

This trek is well suited to those who have a moderate level of fitness and previous hiking experience. The comfortable teahouses along the route offer simple accommodation and fresh meals which allows you to enjoy authentic mountain hospitality. The Short Annapurna Sanctuary for 11 Days trek allows you to enjoy the Himalayan views, culture and high-altitude scenery without spending too much time for trekking.

Highlights

  • Warm welcome dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Guided sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Kimche through Pokhara.
  • Observe views of the Trishuli, Marsyangdi, and Modi Khola rivers.
  • Experience local cultures and daily way of life in Ghandruk and Chhomrong villages.
  • Walk in rhododendron, bamboo and oak forests, waterfalls, streams and various vegetation of the Himalayas.
  • Cross several suspension bridges.
  • Reach Machhapuchhre base camp before trekking to Annapurna base camp.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli and Gangapurna in Annapurna Sanctuary.
  • Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
  • Accommodation in teahouses and lodges with friendly Nepalese mountaineering hospitality.
  • Enjoy your Himalayas view, cultural heritage, alpine landscape and comfortable trekking in 11 days tour package.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Your Annapurna sanctuary journey begins once you arrive at TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport). Here, the EverNepal representatives meet and welcome you before transferring to your standard hotel via private vehicle. Upon arriving at the standard hotel, you can have a well-deserved rest. After that, you can visit the streets of Kathmandu and gain some insights into the rich culture and history of this city. In the evening, we invite you to the welcome dinner. While enjoying the welcome dinner, you can meet all the representatives of EverNepal. After that, you return to your premium room for rest. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 meters (Kathmandu)
  • Travel Distance:  6 to 8 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel
  • Meal: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Guided Tour in Heritage Site

On this day, you explore the UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Kathmandu Valley. Your guided sightseeing tour starts after you eat your warm breakfast. While visiting the sites, you can buy souvenirs and learn about the rich history, culture, and traditions of Nepal. You, along with your guide, explore the sites which are listed below: 

Syambhunath Stupa
This stupa is famous located at the western side of Central Kathmandu. It is one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist stupas in Nepal. This stupa is popular all around the world due to its iconic Buddha eyes, prayer flags, and the monkeys that inhabit the hill.

Patan Durbar Square
The Patan Durbar Square is situated on the southern side of Kathmandu. This durbar square is famous all around the world for its Newari architecture, ancient royal palace, beautiful temples and rich traditional art and craftsmanship.

Boudhanath Stupa
This Boudhanath Stupa is considered one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. It is located in the eastern direction of Kathmandu city. This stupa is famous for its calm environment, colored prayer flags, praying wheels and several monasteries.

Pashupatinath Temple
It is the holy temple of lord Shiva and is situated to the east of central Kathmandu. This temple is popular for its pagoda-style architecture, spiritual significance, and traditional cremation ceremonies performed along the Bagmati River.

  • Max Elevation: 1,450 meters
  • Travel Distance: 25 to 30 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: 3 Star Standard Hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Fly or drive to Pokhara

In the early morning, you receive your warm breakfast. After that, you have two options: either arriving at Pokhara by road transportation or by flight. If you prefer going by private vehicle, you drive through Naubise, Malekhu, Kurintar, Mungling, and Damauli before arriving at Pokhara. On the way, you witness the roaring Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers, green hills, terraces and the Manakamana cable car. If you prefer going by flight, our driver and representatives help you transfer to the TIA and complete all boarding formalities. While travelling via flight, you witness an aerial view of green farm terraces, tiny villages and peaks such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). After a few hours, you arrive in Pokhara. There, you take a well-deserved rest and can go exploring attractions such as Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Davis Fall, Sarangkot and different caves. At night, you return to your hotel for an overnight stay. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,450 meters
  • Flight hours: 25 to 30 minutes
  • Travel Distance: 215 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul / Syauli Bazar / Kimche (1,784 m) Trek to Ghandruk (1940 m / 6,364 ft)

The trekking journey begins from this day. Following a hearty breakfast, you head towards Kimche via Nayapul, Birethanti, Syauli bazaar and Siwai. In between Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar, you cross the high-suspension bridge and follow the Modi Khola. While having a picturesque drive to Kimche, you observe Modi Khola and Bhurungdi River, and terraced rice fields. After you arrive at Kimche, you start your trek towards Ghandruk. You ascend while watching cascading small streams, local forest, grazing herds of sheep, local birds and high peaks (Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre). At Ghandruk, you spend your night. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,940 meters
  • Driving Hours: 5 hours and 30 minutes (Kathmandu to Pokhara)
  • Driving Hours: 1 hour and 34 minutes (Pokhara to Kimche)
  • Trek Distance: 3 to 4 km
  • Trek Hours: 45 minutes to 2 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Trek from Ghandruk (1940 m / 6,364 ft) to Chhomrong (2170 m / 7,119 ft)

After a hearty breakfast, you leave the Ghandruk village with a descent through a steep stone-step towards the ridge. Then, you further descend through the terraced fields and small villages until arriving at the Kimrong Khola river. Upon reaching the Kimrong Khola river, you cross this Khola via a high suspension bridge and start a long and steady ascend towards the Chomrong ridge through forested areas and stone stairs. On the trail, you witness lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, deep river valleys, Gurung heritage, Kimrong Khola and majestic mountains such as Annapurna South, Hinchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). After a long ascent, you arrive at Chhomrong, where you stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 2,170 meters
  • Trek Distance: 10 to 11 kilometers
  • Trek Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Trek from Chhomrong (2170 m / 7,119 ft) to Himalaya (2,890 m / 9,425 ft)

Following a delicious breakfast, you descend from your tea house/lodge through steep stone steps to cross the Chhomrong Khola. After that, you cross the river via a high-suspension bridge, which takes you towards Sinuwa. Upon arriving at Sinuwa, the trail winds through dense and tranquil bamboo, rhododendron, and oak forest before reaching Bamboo. From here, you ascend alongside the roaring river through the gorge to Dovan. Then, you perform a final ascent towards Himalaya via alpine terrain and potential avalanche-prone areas. While crossing these places, you witness dense forest, Modi Khola river gorge, waterfalls, streams and mountains (Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli). At Himalaya, you spend the night in a cozy room.

  • Max Elevation: 2,890 meters
  • Trek Distance: 10 to 12 kilometers
  • Trek Hours: 6 to 7 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Trek from Himalaya (2,890 m / 9,425 ft) to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp

After a warm breakfast, you proceed on your journey while ascending along the Modi Khola river bed through a narrow valley to arrive at Deurali village. From here, you leave the narrow gorge and enter the wide Annapurna Sanctuary, where you find the tree line disappear and is replaced by rocky moraine fields and majestic views of the Fishtail peak (Machhapuchhre). You trek alongside the Modi Khola river bed and the Bagar mountainside to arrive at MBC (Machhapuchhre Base Camp). While trekking towards MBC, you witness stunning views of Modi Khola Gorge, Glacial moraines, dense forests and an alpine sanctuary that is fully guarded by Mt. Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. At this place, you take a short break while soaking up the beautiful views.

After soaking up the views, you trek further towards ABC (Annapurna Base Camp). The path is relatively gentle and passes via an open, flat glacial bowl that is situated above the tree line. As you trek further, you are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of prayer flags, glacial landscape and sweeping mountains such as Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. Here, you stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp)
  • Travel Distance: 9 kilometers 
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m / 13,550 ft) to Bamboo (2,350 m / 7,700 ft)

From this day, you begin your return journey. Following a hearty breakfast, you continue your trek while leaving the alpine sanctuary of Annapurna Base Camp and descend through the open, rocky moraine trail that leads to MBC (Machhapuchhre Base Camp). You further continue your descent alongside the glacial valley of the Modi Khola river. The trail towards the Deurali village becomes narrower and has to pass through the stone-walled avalanche-prone section. From Deurali, you trek through the Hinko Cave. Now, the trail becomes deeper into the forested canyon alongside roaring waterfalls before arriving at Dovan. From Dovan, you make a final descent towards Bamboo village via damp, shaded, and thick bamboo forest. Here, you stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp)
  • Travel Distance: 16 kilometers 
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 8 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9: Trek from Bamboo (2,350 m / 7,700 ft) to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m / 6,393 ft) and nearby natural hot springs

After a hearty breakfast, you leave Bamboo and trek towards the south direction while ascending and descending cooler forested zones, leading to Sinuwa. Then, you descend around 1,000 stone steps which lead to the suspension bridge over the Chhomrong Khola (river). From Chhomrong Khola, you ascend through the stone staircase towards the ridge by following the signboards located at the junction that indicate the lower trail split for Jhinu Danda. Upon arriving at Jhinu Danda, you take a well-deserved rest at your tea house/lodge before performing a side trip to hot springs. You walk through the stone staircase to arrive at the Modi Khola riverbank pools for natural hot spring baths. On the way to Jhinu Danda, where you stay overnight, you witness dense forest, rushing rivers, Chhomrong vistas, Gurung settlement and mountains such as Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

  • Max Elevation: 2,350 meters (Bamboo village)
  • Trek Distance: 10 km
  • Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10: Trek from Jhinu Danda (1,780 m / 6,393 ft) to Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi (1,150 m / 3,770 ft), drive to Pokhara (820 m) via Nayapul (1,050 m)

On this day, you finish your trekking journey. Following a warm breakfast, you trek via the foothills of Annapurna Conservation Area, passing terraced farms, waterfalls, high-suspension bridges, and authentic Gurung and Magar villages. You need to trek along the Modi Khola river valley and cross Komrong Khola, New Bridge (Naya Bridge), and the settlement of Kyum before arriving at Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi. From here, you have a scenic drive to Pokhara via Kimche, Nayapul, Birethanti, Lumle, Naudanda and Hemja, offering views of the Modi Khola river, green forest, and rural lifestyle. Upon arriving at Pokhara, you can explore this city and rest at night. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,780 meters (Jhinu Danda)
  • Drive Duration: 2 hours
  • Drive Distance: 46 km 
  • Trek Distance: 4 km
  • Trek Duration: 2 to 3 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu

This is the last day of the ABC (Annapurna Base Camp) journey. Following a delicious breakfast, you have a scenic drive to Kathmandu via the same route that is used to reach Pokhara. This drive follows Prithivi Highway and offers breathtaking views such as rushing Trishuli, Marsyangdi and Seti Rivers, Manakamana Cable Car, Mugling Bazaar, Damauli and green fields. After having a picturesque drive, you arrive at Kathmandu, where you can depart to your home country. While returning, you can share your memories and reflect on your own journey. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 meters (Kathmandu)
  • Travel Distance: 200 kilometers 
  • Travel Hours: 7 to 9 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch 

What's included

  • Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu.
  • Two nights' accommodation at a standard hotel in Pokhara with breakfast and an attached bathroom.
  • Private transportation from Pokhara to Syauli Bazaar/Kimche and from Ghandruk Phedi back to Pokhara.
  • Three daily meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
  • Services of government licensed and English speaking trekking guide.
  • Costs of the guides and porters (accommodation, food, salary, insurance, transportation, and trekking equipment).
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Daily snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits.
  • All applicable government taxes, local taxes, and official service charges.
  • Rescue operation coordination in case of a medical emergency (rescue costs are covered by the traveler's insurance).
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

What's excluded

  • Nepal entry visa fee, payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport
  • Excess baggage charges.
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
  • Lunch and dinner in Pokhara.
  • Other costs related to extra meals and accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara because of an early arrival, delayed departure, or early return from the trek.
  • Personal expenses like purchasing items for your own use, refreshments, mineral water, hot and cold drinks, alcohol, Wi-Fi usage, phone calls, taking hot showers, charging battery, washing clothes, and any other personal requirements.
  • Insurance coverage for your trek at high altitude, medical assistance, rescue, and evacuation (compulsory).
  • Tips for your guides and porters.
  • All expenses or any delay due to anything beyond our control, such as landslides, weather conditions, change in itinerary for safety purposes, illness, any government decision, strike, and any other unexpected situation.
  • All other services or expenses other than those stated in "Inclusions."

Packing List

If you are planning to perform a short Annapurna Sanctuary trek, packing the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. With an effectively designed packing list, you not only remain prepared but also keep your backpack manageable and enable yourself to relish the magnificent landscape of the Himalayas during the trekking journey. Below are some of the packing lists for the short Annapurna Sanctuary trek. 

Travel Clothing

  • Headwear
  • Buff / Neck Warmer / Neck Gaiter
  • Sunglasses
  • Brimmed Hat or Sun Cap
  • Balaclava
  • Bandana or Headscarf
  • Knit Hat (preferably a fleece or woolen hat)

Bodywear – Torso

  • Down Jacket (Puffer Jacket)
  • Long/Short Polypropylene Sleeve Shirt for trekking at lower altitudes
  • Soft Jacket (Fleece or Soft Shell)
  • Insulated Jacket (Synthetic or Down)
  • Sports Bra
  • Lightweight Thermal Tops
  • Fleece Pullover or Jacket
  • Waterproof Jacket

Handwear

  • Lightweight Gloves (wool or fleece)
  • Heavyweight Gloves or Mittens

Bodywear – beneath the torso

  • Hiking Pants
  • Light Thermal Trousers
  • Underwear
  • Fleece Pants
  • Hiking Shorts (optional for summer trekking)

Footwear

  • Trekking Sandals
  • Hiking Socks
  • Gaiters (optional)
  • Trekking Boots
  • Cotton Socks (optional)
  • Running Shoes or Trainers (optional)

Trekking Equipment, Gears & Accessories

  • Head Torch with Extra Batteries
  • Water Bottle
  • Trekking Backpack
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Raincoat
  • Garbage Bag
  • Sleeping Bag Liner (optional)
  • Trekking Poles
  • Book/Diary/Games
  • Duffel Bag (90L)
  • Face Mask
  • Navigation Equipment
  • Thermosets
  • Crampons (optional)
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Daypack Cover (optional)

First Aid and Medicines

  • Sunscreen Cream
  • Water Purification Tablets or Water Filter
  • Painkillers
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Lip Balm
  • Bandages
  • Eye Drops
  • Oral Rehydration Sachets
  • Antibiotics
  • Foot Powder
  • Altitude Sickness Medicines
  • Skin Blister Repair Kit
  • Cough Lozenges
  • Plasters
  • Prescriptions
  • Antidiarrheals

Toiletries and Personal Hygiene

  • Toothbrush
  • Quick-drying Towel
  • Hand and Face Moisturizing Cream
  • Dry Shampoo
  • Face Flannel
  • Small Bar of Soap or Soap Bottle
  • Hair Brush
  • Toilet Paper
  • Toothpaste
  • Nail Brush & Clippers
  • Multi-purpose Soap

Miscellaneous Items

  • Universal Adapter
  • Camera (optional)
  • Electrolytes (powder or tablets)
  • Pad Locks
  • Stuff Sacks / Dry Bags or Ziploc-type Plastic Bags (optional)
  • Ear Plugs
  • Power Bank
  • Umbrella
  • Swiss Knife (optional)
  • Multi-tools
  • Flasks

Specific Gears for Women
Women should pack a few additional personal items to ensure greater comfort and convenience throughout the trek. Along with the standard trekking gear, some essential gears are necessary to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Below are some of the specific gear for women. 

  • Skincare Items (Moisturizer, Skin Cleanser, and Sunscreen)
  • Tight Leggings
  • Undergarments
  • Tampons
  • Fleece Headband
  • Sports Bra
  • Travel-size Shampoo
  • Sanitary Pads

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Short Annapurna Sanctuary for a 11-day trek?

The Short Annapurna Sanctuary 11 Days is an adventure trekking package, which takes you to the Annapurna Base Camp through the Annapurna Conservation Area. This tour takes you to the stunning mountain landscapes, beautiful traditional villages, various landscapes, and majestic views of the Himalayas in a short period.

Is the Short Annapurna Sanctuary for 11 Days suitable for beginners?

Yes, Short Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is one of those treks that fit well for moderate level trekkers. Having some prior trekking experience can be useful during this trek.

What type of accommodation is available during the trek?

In the Short Annapurna Sanctuary journey, you can find a teahouse/lodge which includes a simple room with multi-bed or dormitory setups, shared bathrooms, and electricity and Wi-Fi if you pay extra money. 

What makes the Short Annapurna Sanctuary for 11 Days special?

Short Annapurna Sanctuary Trek offers alpine landscape, rich ecosystem, unique Gurung and Magar culture and magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary packed up in a limited time, which makes this trek special.

Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?

Yes, as the trek reaches Annapurna Base Camp, you may experience altitude-related symptoms such as headache, nausea or vomiting, and fatigue. By proper hydration, gradual ascent, and appropriate acclimatization, you can minimize the risk of such problems.

What wildlife and vegetation are found along the trail?

In the Short Annapurna Sanctuary trek, you can see rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forests, and Himalayan langurs, musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and a variety of birds such as Himalayan monal, various pheasants, and eagles

Is drinking water available during the trek?

Yes, drinking water is available throughout the trek. At lower altitudes, you can buy bottled water, get boiled or filtered water refills at teahouses, or refill from local taps and streams if you have purification tablets or a portable filter.

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