A Popular Route to the Heart of the Annapurnas
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is one of Nepal’s most loved trekking routes. It takes you right into the heart of the Annapurna mountain range, where you’ll be surrounded by snow-covered peaks. One popular way to start the trek is by going via Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village known for its stone houses, warm hospitality, and views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain). This route offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and local culture.
Starting the Journey from Pokhara
The trek usually begins with a drive from Pokhara, a peaceful lakeside city and the gateway to the Annapurna region. From Pokhara, you’ll drive for a few hours to reach Ghandruk. The drive itself is scenic, with terraced fields, rivers, and hills along the way. Once in Ghandruk, the trek starts with amazing views and a chance to explore the village before heading toward the mountains.
Walking Through Forests and Villages
From Ghandruk, the trail climbs slowly through thick forests filled with oak, bamboo, and rhododendron trees. In spring, these forests bloom with bright red and pink flowers. You’ll pass through small villages like Chhomrong, Sinuwa, and Bamboo. These stops are full of charm and provide great places to rest, enjoy local meals, and chat with other trekkers.
As you move higher, the air becomes cooler, and the forests give way to rocky paths and open views of the mountains. The trail follows the Modi Khola river, which flows down from the glacier near the base camp. There are several suspension bridges to cross and stone staircases to climb, making the journey exciting but manageable for most people.
Reaching Annapurna Base Camp
After a few days of trekking, you’ll reach Annapurna Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of 4,130 meters. This is the main highlight of the trek. From here, you get a 360-degree view of giant peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. Watching the sunrise from base camp is unforgettable—the first light hits the snow-covered mountains, turning them golden.
Many trekkers also stop at Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC), located just before ABC. This spot also offers fantastic views and is a good place to rest and adjust to the altitude before going higher.
Best Time to Trek
The best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghandruk is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months bring clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures. The mountain views are at their best, and the trails are full of life.
Trekking Tips and Preparation
This trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It doesn’t require climbing skills, but you’ll need to be in decent shape since you’ll be walking for several hours a day, often on steep trails. Make sure to carry warm clothes, good trekking shoes, and essentials like a water bottle and rain gear. It’s also important to walk slowly and take breaks to avoid altitude sickness.
You will need permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card before starting the trek. These can be arranged in Pokhara or through a trekking agency.
A Memorable Himalayan Adventure
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghandruk is a rewarding adventure. It offers beautiful scenery, friendly villages, and close-up views of some of the highest mountains in the world. Whether you are trekking for the first time or returning to Nepal, this route is a great choice for experiencing the magic of the Himalayas.