DestinationNepal
AccommodationHotel/Lodge/Tea House during the trek
RegionAnnapurna Region
Best SeasonFeb, March, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec.
Days15
Group8-15 Persons
DifficultyModerate
PickupTIA Airport
Activity Per DayApprox. 4-6 hrs Walking
Max. Altitude4,130 meters
Meals IncludedBreakfast in Pokhara Hotel and all Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
TransportationFlight/Drive

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Highlights

Maximum altitude: 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp
Total trekking days: 9 days (moderate grade)
Best sunrise spot: Poon Hill (3,210m) – 360° panorama
Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
Stunning close-up views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli
3 nights Kathmandu + 2 nights Pokhara (3-star hotels)
Starts & ends in Kathmandu – domestic flights optional

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 15 Days Overview

Experience the classic Annapurna Base Camp Trek 15 days package – perfectly designed for trekkers who want the full ABC experience including the unforgettable Poon Hill sunrise, Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, and relaxed time in Pokhara – all in a tight but comfortable 15-day itinerary (including arrival and departure).

This trip is ideal for December–May departures and combines moderate trekking (max 6–7 hours/day) with 360° views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri from both Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp.

Short itinerary for Annapurna Sanctuary trek

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Day 02: Fly or Drive to Pokhara (827m)

Day 03: Pokhara → Ghorepani (2,874m)

Day 04: Poon Hill Sunrise → Tadapani (2,630m)

Day 05: Tadapani → Chhomrong (2,170m)

Day 06: Chhomrong → Dovan (2,600m)

Day 07: Dovan → Deurali (3,200m)

Day 08: Deurali → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)

Day 09: ABC Sunrise → Bamboo (2,310m)

Day 10: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda Hot Springs (1,780m)

Day 11: Jhinu → Nayapul → Pokhara

Day 12: Pokhara Sightseeing

Day 13: Pokhara → Kathmandu

Day 14: Kathmandu Valley Tour

Day 15: Departure

▶️Need help booking your trip? Watch our step-by-step video guide.

Inclusions in the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Accommodation & Meals

3 nights in Kathmandu (4-star hotel, breakfast included).
All meals + tea/coffee during trek (Days 3–11)
8 nights best available tea houses (twin sharing)
ACAP permit + TIMS
English-speaking trekking guide + porter (1 porter per 2 clients)
All taxes & insurance for staff

Price Excludes

Personal Expenses

International airfare to/from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fees ($30-50)
Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
Personal trekking equipment and gear
Extra night accommodation due to early arrival/late departure

Additional Costs During Trek

Hot showers in teahouses ($3-5 per use)
WiFi and battery charging ($3-5 per use)
Laundry services ($5-10 per kg)
Hot drinks and snacks outside planned meals
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks

Optional Services

Helicopter rescue in emergency (insurance should cover)
Additional porters for personal items
Single room supplements ($20-30 per night)
Tips for guide and porters (customary $100-150 total)
Photography/video fees at monasteries
Extra accommodation/meals due to flight delays
Alternative transportation costs
Additional permits for route changes
Emergency evacuation costs
Trip extension due to weather/personal reasons

Itinerary for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 15 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Highlights: Welcome briefing, refreshment, and Short orientation about the trek.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02: Fly/Drive to Pokhara (827m | 6–7 hrs drive / 25-min flight)

After breakfast, transfer to Pokhara — the beautiful “City of Lakes.” If flying, enjoy stunning aerial views of the Himalayas.
Highlights: Scenic flight/drive, explore Fewa Lake and Lakeside evening stroll.
Overnighat: Hotel in Pokhara

Day 03: Drive to Ulleri (2,020m) and Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m | 5–6 hrs)

Morning drive to Ulleri through Nayapul and Tikhedhunga. Begin your trek through terraced fields and Rhododendron forests.
Highlights: Village walk, rhododendron forest, panoramic views of Annapurna South and Himchuli.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Ghorepani

Day 04: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m) and Trek to Tadapani (2,630m | 6–7 hrs)

Early morning hike to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Trek down to Ghorepani and continue toward Tadapani through lush forest trails.
Highlights: Himalayan sunrise, scenic ridge walks, oak and rhododendron forest.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Tadapani

Day 05: Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m | 5–6 hrs)

Descend through forests to Gurjung village, then climb uphill to Chhomrong, a beautiful Gurung village offering incredible mountain views.
Highlights: Views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Gurung culture, Terraced hillsides.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Chhomrong

Day 06: Trek to Dovan (2,600m | 5–6 hrs)

Start descending to Chhomrong Khola and ascend through bamboo and rhododendron forests to Dovan.
Highlights: Lush forest walk, serene atmosphere along modi Khola valley.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Dovan

Day 07: Trek to Deurali (3,200m | 4–5 hrs)

Continue your gradual ascent following the valley, passing through the Himalaya Hotel area. The landscape becomes alpine with fewer trees.
Highlights: Waterfalls, bamboo groves, close-up mountain views.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Deurali

Day 08: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m | 6–7 hrs)

A rewarding day — trek through the sanctuary to reach the mighty Annapurna Base Camp surrounded by towering peaks.
Highlights: Annapurna Sanctuary, 360° views of Annapurna I, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge at Annapurna Base Camp

Day 09: Trek down to Bamboo (2,310m | 6–7 hrs)

Wake up early to witness sunrise over the Himalayas, then trek down to Bamboo through Deurali and Dovan.
Highlights: Morning Himalayan sunrise, retrace scenic valleys.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Bamboo

Day 10: Trek to Jhinu Danda (1,780m | 5–6 hrs)

Descend to Jhinu Danda, famous for its natural hot springs — perfect to relax after days of trekking.
Highlights: Natural hot springs, rest and recovery.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Jhinu Danda

Day 11: Trek to Landruk (1,565m | 4–5 hrs)

An easy and pleasant trail through local villages and forests takes you to Landruk, another charming Gurung settlement.
Highlights: Traditional Gurung culture, scenic terraces, peaceful atmosphere.
Overnight: Local Tea House Lodge in Landruk.

Day 12: Trek to Dhampus (1,650m | 5–6 hrs) & Drive to Pokhara (827m)

Trek through forested trails and traditional villages to Dhampus, where your vehicle awaits for a short drive to Pokhara.
Highlights: Panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre, countryside drive.
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

Day 13: Full Day Sightseeing in Pokhara

Explore Pokhara’s key attractions — Davis Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, World Peace Pagoda, and Fewa Lake boating.
Highlights: City tour, mountain reflection on Fewa Lake, Local culture.
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

Day 14: Drive/Fly Back to Kathmandu (1,350m)

After breakfast, return to Kathmandu. If flying, enjoy the remaining day with sightseeing around the valley.
Highlights (if flying): Visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Patan Durbar Square.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 15: Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing & Farewell Dinner

Today visit the UNESCO Heritage Sites — Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Boudhanath.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural farewell dinner with a traditional Nepali performance.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Photos for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Map of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 15 Days

🌸 Spring (March–May)
The absolute best time for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. Warm days (10–20°C), clear blue skies, and exploding red rhododendron forests all the way to Annapurna Base Camp. Perfect visibility of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli — ideal season for photography and comfortable trekking.

🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Peak season for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. Stable weather, zero rain risk, crisp air, and crystal-clear 360° mountain views from both Poon Hill and ABC. Trails are busy but the conditions are unbeatable.

❄️ Winter (December–February)
Cold nights (-10 to -15°C at ABC) and possible snow, but you get the entire Annapurna Sanctuary almost to yourself. Clear sunny days still deliver stunning views — great for experienced trekkers who don’t mind the chill.

🌧️ Monsoon (June–August)
Heavy rain below 3,000 m, slippery trails, leeches, and clouded views. Not recommended for the classic Annapurna Sanctuary route (rain-shadow areas like Upper Mustang are the exception).

🏔️ Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Highlights

Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
Stand inside the natural amphitheater surrounded by Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna — true 360° Himalayan giants.

Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210 m)
World-famous viewpoint with golden sunrise over Dhaulagiri and the entire Annapurna range.

Jhinu Danda Natural Hot Springs
Soak tired legs in geothermal pools after reaching ABC — the perfect reward.

Lush Rhododendron & Bamboo Forests
Walk through blooming red forests (spring) and peaceful green tunnels in the Modi Khola valley.

Authentic Gurung Villages
Chhomrong, Ghandruk, and Landruk — warm hospitality, traditional houses, and terraced farmland.

Glacial Sanctuary Experience
Enter the sacred high-altitude bowl guarded by seven 7,000–8,000 m peaks.

🎒 Essential Packing List for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

• Broken-in waterproof trekking boots with ankle support

• Layering system: thermal base layers + fleece + down jacket

• Gore-Tex waterproof jacket & pants

• Warm sleeping bag (comfort rating -10°C or lower)

• Trekking poles (essential for steep sections)

• UV sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen & lip balm

• Headlamp + extra batteries

• Reusable water bottle + purification method

• Personal first-aid kit + Diamox for altitude

• High-energy snacks (nuts, bars, chocolate)

• Power bank (charging is limited above 3,000 m)

• Daypack (25–35 L) + duffel bag for porter

FAQ's for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 15 Days

1. What is the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (also called Annapurna Base Camp Trek or ABC Trek) is a spectacular 7–15 day moderate teahouse trek that takes you into a natural glacial amphitheatre surrounded by 7,000–8,000 m peaks including Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. Most routes include the iconic Poon Hill sunrise and finish with a relaxing soak in Jhinu Danda natural hot springs.

2. How difficult is the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?

Moderate. Daily walking 5–7 hours with steep stone staircases (especially days 1–3) and a gradual climb to 4,130 m. No technical skills required, but good fitness is essential. The highest sleeping altitude is ~4,130 m at ABC – lower risk of severe altitude sickness than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.

3. Can I do the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek solo / without a guide?

Yes – the trail is very well-marked, busy, and safe. However, since April 2023 Nepal requires all trekkers in national parks (including Annapurna) to hire a licensed guide. Solo independent trekking is no longer allowed. You can join a group or hire a private guide cheaply in Pokhara (~US $25–35/day).

4. Best time to trek Annapurna Sanctuary 2025–2026?

✓ March–May (Spring): Rhododendrons blooming, warm days, clear views. ✓ September–November (Autumn): Most popular – crystal-clear skies, stable weather, moderate temperatures. Winter (Dec–Feb) possible with snow and fewer crowds; monsoon (Jun–Aug) not recommended due to rain, leeches, and landslides.

5. How much does the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek cost?

Budget (independent with guide): US $800–1,100 pp Comfort/guided package: US $1,200–1,800 pp (includes permits, guide, porter, 3-star hotels in cities, all meals on trek). Permits alone: ACAP NPR 3,000 + TIMS NPR 2,000 (~US $38 total).

6. Do I need permits for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?

Yes – two permits: • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 • TIMS Card – NPR 2,000 Your guide/agency will arrange them in Pokhara or Kathmandu.

7. How to avoid altitude sickness on ABC Trek?

Ascend gradually (itinerary has good acclimatisation)

• Drink 4–5 litres water daily

• Walk slowly (“bistari” in Nepali)

• Eat carbs, avoid alcohol/smoking

• Consider Diamox (acetazolamide) – consult doctor

• Descend immediately if symptoms worsen (headache, nausea, dizziness).

8. Annapurna Sanctuary Trek vs Annapurna Circuit – which is better?

Sanctuary/ABC = shorter (7–15 days), easier, incredible close-up mountain amphitheatre views, hot springs, very scenic forests. Circuit = longer (14–21 days), harder (Thorong La Pass 5,416 m), more cultural & landscape variety, crosses into Mustang rain-shadow. Choose Sanctuary if you have <2 weeks or want the classic “360° giant peaks” experience.

9. Is Wi-Fi and charging available on the trek?

Yes – almost every teahouse has Wi-Fi (NPR 200–500 per device) and charging (NPR 200–500 per hour). Bring a power bank for ABC night.

10. What is the food & accommodation like?

Comfortable teahouses with twin rooms (sometimes dormitory at MBC/ABC). Hot showers available most places. Dal Bhat (lentil curry & rice) is the staple – unlimited refills! Plenty of vegetarian/vegan options.

11. Should I hire a porter?

Highly recommended! Porters cost ~US $18–25/day and carry up to 25 kg. You only carry a daypack → much more enjoyable trek.

12. How cold does it get at Annapurna Base Camp?

Daytime 5–15°C, nighttime -5 to -15°C (colder in winter). Bring a 4-season sleeping bag (or rent one).

Ready to book your Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 2025/2026? Contact Nepal Adventure Trail: info@nepaladventuretrail.com | +977-1-4964040

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: Best Guide | Map, Itinerary, Cost & 15 Days

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