The aptly named Annapurna Base Camp is the most intensely scenic short trek in Nepal. From Ghandrung on the Jomsom route, the trail bears single-mindedly north into the very heart of the Annapurna range following the short, steep Modi Khola. It soon leaves all permanent settlements behind, climbs through Dense Bamboo jungle and finally, rising above the vegetation line, makes for a narrow notch between the sheer lower flanks of Machhapuchhre and Hiunchuli. Once past this Sanctuary “gate”, it stumbles across moraines to a cluster and huts (often still called “Machhapuchhre Base Camp”) and further on the so-called Annapurna Base Camp. Wherever you stand in the Sanctuary, the 360-degree views are unspeakably beautiful, and although clouds roll in early, the curtain often parts at sunset to reveal radiant, molten peaks. The altitude is 4130m bring warm gear.
The sanctuary can be treated as a side trip from the Jomsom/Muktinath trek, adding seven to fourteen days round trip from the Kathmandu, accessed from Dhampus Phedi or Nayapul – Birethanti. The actual distance covered isn’t great, but altitude, weather and trails conditions all tend to slow you down. The trails gain more than 2000m. from the Ghandrung to Sanctuary, so unless you’re already well acclimatized you had be wise to spread the climb over four days. This is a trek to a land of enchantment. |
