Top 5 Reasons visiting Annapurna base camp trek

July 27, 2019

Nepal is a stunning Himalayan country adorned with snow-capped mountains, offering travelers a heavenly natural experience. Its remote regions, such as Upper Mustang and Dolpo, are ideal for arid desert trekking, while the popular Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Langtang trekking regions, along with newly opened routes, provide a wide range of trekking options.

Nepal boasts of numerous natural and cultural sites, making it an attractive destination for adventure and religious travelers from around the world. Many visitors come to Nepal to go trekking, hiking, or touring. The country’s main attraction lies in its high Himalayan region to the north, particularly the Annapurna base camp trek, which offers panoramic views of rolling hills, pristine mountains, and verdant forests.

Whether visitors are seeking a moderate hike on a low budget or a luxury trekking package, the Annapurna base camp trek is an ideal destination to witness the majestic mountain views and local Gurung culture. Approximately two-thirds of Nepal’s visitors choose the Annapurna region, including the Annapurna base camp trek, as their preferred trekking destination.

Although Nepal has numerous breathtaking trekking and hiking trails, the Annapurna base camp trek via Ghorepani Poonhill is the top choice for many. This is due to several reasons, including the unparalleled mountain views, stunning natural surroundings, rich cultural experiences, ease of access, and affordability.

In summary, Nepal is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural diversity, making it an ideal destination for adventure and religious travelers. The Annapurna base camp trek via Ghorepani Poonhill offers an unforgettable trekking experience, with majestic mountain views and rich cultural encounters, making it one of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal.

1.    Exceptional Himalayan Panoramas:

Nepal is a magnificent country that offers the opportunity to witness some of the world’s tallest mountain peaks. The Annapurna region is a breathtaking trekking destination that is connected to the Massif Himalaya chain.

The Annapurna base camp trek can be completed in 7 days if you take the shortcut, but it usually takes 10 days via Ghorepani Poonhill. The trek starts with a 2-hour drive from Pokhara and follows the popular Annapurna trekking route to Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, Chhomurung, Sinuwa, MBC, and finally, the Annapurna base camp.

The magical view of the Annapurna panorama becomes visible on the second day when you reach Ulleri, and it continues every day until you reach the Annapurna base camp. The pristine mountain views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri surround you throughout the trek, with the world’s 10th highest peak, Mt. Annapurna one, among them.

According to research and feedback from honest hikers, the Annapurna base camp trek is an unbelievable destination for those who wish to experience the high Himalayas up close. It is truly a remarkable trekking experience that offers breathtaking mountain views and a chance to explore the Annapurna region’s natural beauty.

2. Moderate trek and easy access to visit:

The Annapurna base camp trek is a moderate trek suitable for all types of mountain lovers, making it a must-do experience to add to your future trekking bucket list.

The trek officially begins in Pokhara and can be reached by either a 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul or a flight to Pokhara from the capital city of Nepal. As the trek starts from the lowlands of Nayapul at 1075m, the altitude gradually increases over the course of the trek.

In case of bad weather, the option to travel by private or public bus or jeep to Pokhara is available, making this trek an ideal choice for hikers. The tea houses along the trek provide access to food, internet, battery charging, and other necessary amenities, and there are primary hospitals and villages along the route in case of illness.

There is no risk of mountain sickness, and the Annapurna base camp trek is easily accessible and suitable for all kinds of visitors.

3. Prominent indigenous cultural trek

During the Annapurna base camp trek, you can witness the unique culture of the Gurung, Magar(Poon), mixed other tribes who have inhabited the region for generations. Their way of life is intertwined with the surrounding nature and they have developed their own techniques for building houses using local materials like woods from Rhododendron trees.

As you traverse through the lush forests, you will encounter numerous picturesque landscapes and rolling hills in the valley. The trek starts from Nayapul or Phedi, where you hike up the rural villages of the Annapurna region. You will come across various groups of people belonging to different castes and religions, and as you ascend higher, the Gurung and Poon ethnic groups become more prominent.

While the Annapurna base camp trek is undoubtedly popular, it is the rich cultural and natural diversity that attracts many trekkers to this route. Exploring the local villages and tea houses along the trail, interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life can be an enriching experience.

Apart from the cultural aspect, the Annapurna region also boasts of some of the most breathtaking natural scenery, including majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests. The trek offers ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and bird watching, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts.

Overall, the Annapurna base camp trek is a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure, making it a must-do trek for anyone visiting Nepal.

4. Beauty of Rhododendron & Bamboo forest

 

One of the key reasons to visit Annapurna base camp is the peace and tranquility that the trek offers. As you make your way through the lush forests covered with rhododendron and bamboo, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty and quietness. During the first few days of the trek, you’ll pass through cultural villages and mostly pine and rhododendron forests. If you’re planning a trip during March or April, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the full spectrum of rhododendron flowers in bloom, making for a spectacular sight. The skies are also clear during these months, giving you unobstructed views of both the mountains and the scenic forest.

As you ascend higher up the trek, above the Chhomrung village, you’ll come across picturesque bamboo forests that are a sight to behold. Apart from the mountain views, the verdant forests of rhododendron and bamboo are another highlight of the Annapurna base camp trek. Local people from Sinuwa, Bamboo, Dovan, and Himalaya use bamboo to make small inns for animals and store goods. They also consume bamboo shoots, which have a high percentage of protein.

5. Bathing at Natural Hot spring

Annapurna base camp trekking offers much more than just stunning mountain views and cultural experiences. Along the trekking route, there are several waterfalls, rivers, and mesmerizing views of terrace fields that add to the natural beauty of the area.

One of the most unique and enjoyable experiences on the ABC trek is visiting the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda. This hot spring is conveniently located along the trekking route, making it a popular spot for trekkers to stop and take a break. The hot spring features three major pools next to the Modi River, which flows down from the ABC and MBC glaciers.

After several days of ascending and descending in the mountains, taking a dip in the hot spring can be a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. Soaking in the warm water for a few hours can help to relieve muscle soreness and provide a well-deserved break from the rigors of trekking.

Overall, Annapurna base camp trekking is an excellent choice for those looking to experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and unique features of the region.