3 highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

October 28, 2016

The Annapurna Base Camp trek (or Annapurna Sanctuary Trek as it’s also known) was the first commercial trekking route in Nepal and outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world have been flocking to the region for over 50 years to see what it’s all about.

The trek owes its popularity primarily to the incredible Himalayan views, but its well-marked trails,
frequent lodges along the way, a long trekking season and easy access to trailheads starting just an hour or two away in Pokhara, has done a lot to bolster its reputation as one of the best places for trekking in Nepal.

If you’re visiting the Annapurna Conversation Area this trekking season, here are three major highlights not to miss along the trail:

1. Annapurna Base Camp

A hard one to miss, Annapurna Base Camp is the obvious holy grail of this trek. At 4,130 m, trekkers are surrounded on all sides by spectacular snow-capped peaks, like the supreme Annapurna I (8,091m) and its sisters Annapurna South, Annapurna Fang, Annapurna III. You will also have good views of Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Khangsar Kang, Tent Peak and the iconic Machapuchare, also known as Fishtail Mountain.

Our favorite way to approach the final stages of the ABC trek is to spend the night at Machapuchare Base Camp, get up early the next morning and trek the last 2-3 hours up to Annapurna Base Camp in time to watch the sun rise over the Annapurna mountain range.

2. Annapurna Apple Pie

Some would argue that the Annapurna Base Camp trek is as much a culinary experience as it is a natural one. All along the trail you’ll come across welcoming teahouses serving steaming dal bhat (traditional Nepali meal of rice and lentil soup), mouthwatering Mo:Mos and the staple dessert of the region – homemade apple pie.

3. Jhinu Hot Springs

A visit to the hot springs in Jhinu Danda works magic on your tired trekking legs and is a well-deserved break on your return trip from base camp. Jhinu itself is a delightful little settlement, set on top of a ridge along your descent from Chomrong, with a couple of lovely teahouses and pop-up craft shops. The hot springs are a 20-25 minute walk on a descending path to the river Modi Khola below. Trust us, it is well worth the detour.
There are now three pools of varying temperatures, basic changing facilities, a natural shower to wash off the blood, sweat and tears from the trek and a little spot to dip your feet in the rushing (and freezing) waters of the Modi Khola.

For more suggestions on incredible treks in the Annapurna region, head over to GHT treks.

Image credit: Annapurna Base Camp by Matt Zimmerman 

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