Annapurna Sanctuary ( Annapurna Base Camp ): This is another classic trek in the Annapurna region. The trail leads to the Base Camp of Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre. It is relatively short trek that can be completed in as little as 8 days starting and ending in Pokhara. However, the trek may also be made as a part of Annapurna Circuit or the Jomsom trek by trekking from Tatopani through Ghorepani and Tadapani and joining the main Sanctuary trail at Chomrong. An entry permit for ACAP is needed for this trek.

The most convenient point to start the trek is Naudanda Phedi which can be reached by 1-2 hours drive from Pokhara. From Naudanda the trail linking Dhampus should be followed. The route passes through Dhampus, Pothana and Landrung, the Gurung villages. At Landrung the choice is to cross to Ghandrung, perhaps the popular Gurung settlement in the region or to continue on up the Modi Khola through Naya Pul. However, both the trails join at Chomrong at the foot of the gorge lead to the Sanctuary. For the acclimatization reason two nights should be spent between Chomrong and the Sanctuary. The trail up the Modi Khola passes through dense forest of rhododendron and bamboo for the first day. By the time the large rock overhang, known as Hinku Cave, is reached and entering to the Sanctuary you find yourself in a huge amphitheater enclosed by a solid wall of snow capped peaks which include Annapurna I, II, III, IV and Machhapuchhre ( the fish tailed mountain ). There are good number of teahouses at Machhapuchhre Base Camp as well as Annapurna Base Camp that is two hours away.
You may either return by the same route to Chomrong where you can choose to retract the same route or deviate through either Ghandrung or Ghorepani.

Grade: Moderate
Mode of operation: Tea house and camping

Season:  Mar, Apr, May, early Jun, late Sep, Oct, Nov