The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most well-known and iconic treks. It takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Annapurna region, with views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and quaint villages. This blog will provide you the comprehensive idea about Top 10 places during Annapurna Base Camp Trek. So, when you will trek to ABC you will be familiar about these places. Knowing the places, hotels, attractions before going to some places will make your trip more interesting and safer too. Read this article to know in deails about the main 10 places or villages that you will pass during the trek to Annapurna south base camp.
Before knowing top places know about where is Annapurna base camp ? Annapurna Base Camp is one of the best trekking destination in Nepal Himalaya. Annapurna Base Camp trek takes to the height of 4130m. By passing popular places like Machhapuchhre base camp ABC trek gives the closest view of the Annapurna Himalayan range with a breathtaking view of golden sunrise and sunset in the mornings and evenings. The trip takes to the base of the world’s tenth highest mountain Annapurna. The destination, as well as the journey, gives a beautiful view of the Himalayas and hills. In this trek, you would get to interact with the traditional lifestyle and cultural people in Nepal along with an opportunity of viewing the rare animals and plants.
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Why to Trek Annapurna over other Peaks?
For a variety of reasons, trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a popular choice among trekking enthusiasts and adventurers. Here are a few reasons why trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is superior to other peaks:
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is easily accessible from Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest city. Pokhara is only a few hours’ drive from Kathmandu, and there are daily flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara. In comparison to other trekking peaks in Nepal, this makes it more accessible and convenient. The Annapurna region has some of the most beautiful scenery in Nepal. The route to Annapurna Base Camp passes through lush green forests, beautiful waterfalls, and charming villages. The trail provides stunning views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail Mountain). The Annapurna region is home to a variety of ethnic communities, including the Gurungs, Thakalis, and Magars, each with their own distinct culture, traditions, and cuisines. Trekking through these villages allows visitors to learn about Nepalese culture and way of life. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it accessible to a wide range of people with varying levels of fitness and experience. The trail is well-marked and equipped with tea houses and lodges along the way, making it simple to plan and execute. The Annapurna Base Camp trek can be completed in 7-12 days, depending on the trekker’s pace. This makes it an ideal option for people with limited time who still want to see the Himalayas.
Starting Pokhara City
Pokhara is a beautiful city located in the western part of Nepal. It is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal due to its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Pokhara is known as the “city of Lakes” because of the presence of several lakes, including Phewa Lake, Begnas Lakes, and Rupa Lake. Pokhara lies on an important old trading route between China and India. In the 17th century, it was part of the Kingdom of Kaski which was one of the Chaubisi rajya ruled by a branch of the Shah dynasty. In 1786, Prithvi Narayan Shah added Pokhara into his kingdom.
Pokhara is considered particularly vulnerable to earthquakes and floods because the Seti Gandaki River flows through the city. Pokhara is in the northwestern corner of the Pokhara Valley, which is a widening of the Seti Gandaki valley that lies in the region (Pahad) of the Himalayas. In the south, the city borders Phewa Tal (or Phewa Lake) (4.4 sq. km ) at an elevation of about 800 meters (2,600 feet) above sea level, while north of Pokhara, the village of Lumle at 1,740 meters (5,710 feet) touches the base of the Annapurna mountain range. Pokhara, the city of lakes, is the second-largest city in Nepal after Kathmandu.
Pokhara is a major tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The city’s scenic beauty, serene environment, and pleasant climate make it an ideal place for trekking, hiking, and sightseeing. The city offers a wide range of tourist activities, including boating, paragliding, zip-lining, bungee jumping, and mountain biking. The city is also home to several cultural and historical sites, including the World Peace Pagoda, Bindabasini Temple, and the Old Bazaar.
Phewa Lake is one of the main attractions of Pokhara. It is the second-largest lake in Nepal and offers a perfect setting for boating and relaxing. Visitors can also visit the Tal Barahi Temple, a Hindu temple located in the middle of the lake. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is a popular place for Hindu pilgrims.The World Peace Pagoda is another famous tourist destination located in Pokhara. The pagoda is a Buddhist stupa built by Japanese monks and offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the city. Visitors can reach the pagoda by hiking or taking a boat across Phewa Lake.
Top 10 Places During Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Ghandruk Village:
Ghandruk is a beautiful Gurung village nestled in Nepal’s Kaski District, within the Gandaki Province. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,012 meters (6,601 feet) above sea level, Ghandruk offers trekkers and visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.The village is mainly inhabited by the Gurung community, known for their rich cultural traditions and history of serving in the British and Indian Gurkha regiments. Visitors can explore the Gurung Cultural Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the Gurung people’s history and lifestyle.
Ghandruk provides stunning panoramic views of several Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. The village is also a gateway for treks into the Annapurna Conservation Area, offering trails that wind through terraced fields, dense rhododendron forests, and traditional stone-built houses. The village offers a range of accommodations, from basic lodges to homestays, providing visitors with an authentic experience of rural Nepali life.
Jhinu Danda:
Jhinu Danda is a small village in Nepal’s Annapurna region that is popular with trekkers and travellers. It is 1,760 metres above sea level and is known for its natural hot springs, which are thought to have healing properties. Jhinu Danda is a popular stopping point for trekkers on the Annapurna Base Camp Treks. The village is surrounded by lush forests and provides spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, including Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail Mountain). Now the vehicle can reach upto this point. So, this is the official points for starting trek for Annapurna base camp trek if you don’t want to go Poon Hill Trek.
Jhinu Danda’s natural hot springs are one of its main draws. The hot springs are about a 20-minute downhill walk from the village, and hikers can relax their muscles after a long day of hiking by taking a dip in the warm water. The water is said to have healing properties and can alleviate pain and cure skin diseases. Jhinu Danda, in addition to the hot springs, provides a glimpse into the Gurung people’s traditional way of life.
The Gurungs are a native ethnic group in the region with their own language and customs. Trekkers can visit the nearby Gurung village and interact with the friendly locals, sample local delicacies such as dal bhat and momos, and learn about their traditional way of life.
Chomrong:
Chomrong is a charming village in Nepal’s Annapurna region, on the trekking trail to Annapurna Base Camp. It is located at an elevation of 2,170 metres above sea level and provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The Gurung community, one of Nepal’s major ethnic groups, lives in the village. The Gurung people are known for their distinct culture, traditional way of life, and hospitality, which visitors to Chomrong can experience firsthand. The village has a friendly atmosphere, with residents greeting visitors with smiles and kindness. Chomrong is a popular rest stop for trekkers en route to Annapurna Base Camp. There are several teahouses and lodges in the village where trekkers can rest, eat, and take in the breathtaking scenery. Traditional Nepalese cuisine, such as dal bhat (a lentil soup served with rice and vegetables) and momos (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), as well as international cuisine, are served in the teahouses.
The Chomrong Ghandruk Trek, a scenic route that takes trekkers through forests, terraced fields, and villages, is one of the main attractions of Chomrong. The trek begins in Chomrong and continues to Ghandruk, a charming village known for its traditional architecture and spectacular views of the Annapurna range. Chomrong is also the last stop for trekkers to stock up on supplies and equipment before continuing on to Annapurna Base Camp. The trail from Chomrong to the base camp is quite steep and difficult, so trekkers should be physically prepared and acclimatised to the altitude.
Recommended Read: Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Everything You Need to Know
Poon Hill is well-known for its biodiversity, in addition to its breathtaking views. The trail takes hikers through rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can see a variety of birds, butterflies, and rare animals such as the Himalayan tahr and musk deer.
Sinwa Village:
Sinuwa Village, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,300 meters (7,600 feet), is the highest point on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek where you’ll encounter active farming terraces. Beyond Sinuwa, the trail descends steeply to the Chomrong Khola and then ascends through dense bamboo and oak forests toward Bamboo and Deurali. This area is part of the Annapurna Sanctuary, characterized by its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, but it lacks cultivated lands. Sinwa village is also famous for world wide famous mad honey hunting.
Bamboo:
Bamboo is a small village in Nepal’s Annapurna region, at an elevation of 2,335 metres above sea level. It gets its name from the bamboo forest that surrounds the village and serves as a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife. Trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek frequently stop in Bamboo. The village is surrounded by lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, creating a stunning natural backdrop for trekkers. Wildlife found in the forests includes monkeys, Himalayan Thar, and even snow leopards. One of the highlights of Bamboo is the breathtaking view of the Himalayas. Trekkers can see the Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre peaks from here (also known as Fishtail Mountain). The scenery is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset, when the mountains are bathed in golden light.
Bamboo is also an excellent place to learn about the Gurung people’s culture and way of life. The Gurungs are a native ethnic group in the region with their own language and customs. Trekkers can visit the nearby Gurung village and interact with the friendly locals, sample local delicacies such as dal bhat and momos, and learn about their traditional way of life. Aside from cultural experiences, Bamboo is an excellent location for adventure activities such as hiking and trekking. There are several hiking trails in the area that provide breathtaking views of the mountains and forests. Trekkers can continue on to other popular destinations such as Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Dovan:
Dovan is a small village located after Bamboo village located at 2550m from Sea level. There is a facility of tea houses for accommodation. These tea house provides the facility of Eatery also. If you are planning just to have lunch or some additional foods its better to contact them before so, the food will be ready when you arrive the place. They can prepare the food based on the small menus which is like the popular foods chosen by previous tourist.
Himalaya:
Like the name this village is located in the heart of Nepal Himalaya of Annapurna region. You will reach this place after passing Dovan and Himalaya water fall. Its located at 2680m from sea level. There is the facility of few Tea Houses. This place is located between Mardi Himal and Himchuli Himal.
Deurali:
Deurali is a small village in Nepal’s Annapurna region. It is located on the trekking trail to Annapurna Base Camp at an elevation of 3,230 metres above sea level. Deurali is a popular trekking stopover with stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The village has a few teahouses and lodges where trekkers can rest and take in the breathtaking scenery. Traditional Nepalese cuisine, such as dal bhat (a lentil soup served with rice and vegetables) and momos (dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), as well as international cuisine, are served in the teahouses.
Deurali is also well-known for its scenic beauty. The route from the village to the Annapurna Base Camp takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and picturesque villages. Visitors can see a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, orchids, and various bird species.The Machhapuchhre Base Camp, located about 2 kilometres from the village, is one of Deurali’s main attractions. The Machhapuchhre Base Camp provides breathtaking views of the Machhapuchhre mountain, also known as the “Fish Tail” mountain because of its distinctive shape. Deurali is also a must-see for trekkers planning to climb the Annapurna mountain range. It is the final stop for trekkers to stock up on supplies and equipment before continuing on to the base camp. Before attempting the climb, trekkers should be physically prepared and acclimatised to the altitude.
Deurali is also a must-see for trekkers planning to climb the Annapurna mountain range. It is the final stop for trekkers to stock up on supplies and equipment before continuing on to the base camp. Before attempting the climb, trekkers should be physically prepared and acclimatised to the altitude.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp:
Machhapuchhre Base Camp is a popular trekking destination in Nepal’s Annapurna region. It is located at an elevation of 3,700 metres above sea level and is a popular rest stop for trekkers en route to Annapurna Base Camp. The Machhapuchhre Base Camp is at the base of the Machhapuchhre mountain, also known as the “Fish Tail” mountain due to its unusual shape. The mountain is considered sacred by the locals, and climbing it is forbidden, making it one of the world’s few unclimbed peaks.
The trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp is difficult but rewarding. It leads hikers through lush forests, picturesque villages, and rocky terrain, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Trekkers can see a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, orchids, and various bird species.The Machhapuchhre Base Camp is a must-see for anyone planning a trek to the Annapurna mountain range. It is the final stop for trekkers to stock up on supplies and equipment before continuing on to the base camp. Before attempting the climb, trekkers should be physically prepared and acclimatised to the altitude.
The Machhapuchhre Base Camp is also a wonderful place to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the area. The teahouses and lodges in the area provide comfortable lodging and warm hospitality, making it an ideal location for rest and rejuvenation.The breathtaking views of the Machhapuchhre mountain are one of the main draws of the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Trekkers can see the majestic peak glow in the sunlight as it reflects off its snow-capped summit. The views of the sunset and sunrise from the base camp are truly breathtaking, and offer a one-of-a-kind experience that should not be missed.
Annapurna Glacier:
The Annapurna Glacier, located just near the Annapurna south base camp, is a prominent glacial expanse nestled at an altitude of approximately 4,050 meters above sea level. This glacier is situated within the Annapurna Sanctuary, a high-altitude basin encircled by towering peaks, including Annapurna I, the world’s tenth-highest mountain at 8,091 meters. The sanctuary’s unique geography creates a natural amphitheater, offering trekkers and mountaineers unparalleled views of the surrounding Himalayan giants. Reaching the Annapurna Glacier typically involves a challenging trek from the village of Narchang, with the journey taking about seven hours along the Maurice Hargoz trail from Humkhola. The glacier’s proximity to the Annapurna Base Camp makes it a significant waypoint for those exploring the region, providing insight into the dynamic glacial systems of the Himalayas.
Bonus Places During Annapurna Base Camp Trek
As the development of roads now many travelers starts the trekking directly from Jhinu and ends here boycotting Ghorepani poon Hill. But the nature lovers and those who want to spend more days in Annapurna still follows the 13 days Annapurna base camp trekking route via Ghorepani Poon Hill. For those following places are also main attractions.
Tadapani:
Tadapani is a small village in Nepal’s Annapurna region. It is located at an elevation of 2,630 metres above sea level and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Tadapani is a popular stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is regarded as one of the world’s best treks. The village is surrounded by lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, which serve as a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife. Trekkers can see a variety of birds and animals along the trail to Tadapani, including monkeys, Himalayan Thar, and, if they’re lucky, snow leopards.
Tadapani’s panoramic view of the Himalayas is one of its main attractions. Trekkers can see the majestic Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre peaks from here (also known as Fishtail Mountain). The scenery is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset, when the mountains are bathed in golden light. Tadapani is also an excellent place to learn about the Gurung people’s culture and way of life. The Gurungs are a native ethnic group in the region with their own language and customs. Trekkers can visit the nearby Gurung village and interact with the friendly locals, sample local delicacies such as dal bhat and momos, and learn about their traditional way of life.
Poon Hill:
Poon Hill is a popular trekking destination in Nepal’s Annapurna region. It is a small hill station with spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as surrounding valleys and villages. Poon Hill is a popular choice for beginners and those with limited time because it is a relatively easy and short trek. The trek begins in the village of Nayapul and continues through picturesque villages, lush forests, and terraced fields before arriving at Poon Hill. The sunrise view from the top of Poon Hill is the highlight of the trek. Trekkers typically get up early in the morning and hike up to the hill station to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the mountains. The view is breathtaking, with the snow-capped peaks glowing orange and pink as the sun rises above them.
The above mentioned places during Annapurna base camp trek or hiking are listed on the basis of popularity. If you think I missed any places please let me know I will update the place on the list. Which is your favorite place in this region?