Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a highly popular trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The name of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek is popular as the Annapurna Circuit trek leads trekkers to the Annapurna Sanctuary, a high-altitude glacial basin located beneath the Annapurna massif. The trek offers incredible views of the Annapurna range and passes through a variety of landscapes from lush subtropical forests to alpine meadows. The trek can be completed in 10-14 days, depending on the route taken and the number of days spent in the Sanctuary itself. It is a moderate to strenuous trek, with some sections requiring mountaineering skills but the rewards of reaching the Sanctuary are worth the effort.

Trekking Route of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is accessible from both Pokhara and Kathmandu. The trek typically starts at Phedi, a few hours’ drive from Pokhara. The route then passes through the terraced hillsides of the Modi Khola valley, the Gurung village of Landruk, and Ghandruk before finally reaching the Sanctuary. The route also passes through enchanting forests of rhododendrons, oak, and pine trees. On the way, trekkers get a chance to see the incredible views of the Annapurna range and the Kali Gandaki river gorge. The Annapurna Sanctuary trek is a great introduction to the world of trekking in the Himalayas and is a must-do for any trekker.

Annapurna Sanctuary Accommodation

On the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, trekkers can either stay in basic teahouses or camp out. Teahouses are basic mountain lodges that usually offer a bed, a meal, and a hot shower. Camping is also an option, though it is more expensive and is only recommended for more experienced trekkers. The Annapurna Sanctuary is also home to a few meditation retreats, where trekkers can enjoy a peaceful stay while meditating in the beautiful surroundings.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Permit cost

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek requires a permit, which costs around $30 USD if you go through the company. But if you forget to make a permit and the trek starts, the permit fees will be doubled at the checkpoint. The permit is valid for 10 days and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required to trek in the Annapurna Sanctuary. The permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Alternatively, trekkers can also hire a trekking agency to obtain the permit on their behalf.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty, with some sections requiring mountaineering skills. The trek involves several days of trekking at high altitudes, so it is important to be physically fit. The highest point on the trek is 4,130 m (13,550 ft), so it is important to be well-acclimatized before attempting the trek. It is also important to bring the necessary gear and clothing, as the weather in the Sanctuary can be unpredictable.

Annapurna sanctuary Trek Itinerary

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek typically takes about 10-14 days, depending on the route taken and the number of days spent in the Sanctuary itself. The trek usually starts from Phedi or Birethati, a few hours’ drive from Pokhara. The trek then passes through the Modi Khola valley, the Gurung village of Landruk, and Ghandruk before finally reaching the Sanctuary. The trek passes through enchanting forests of rhododendrons, oak, and pine trees and offers incredible views of the Annapurna range and the Kali Gandaki river gorge. The trek ends with a descent to Nayapul, from where trekkers can take a taxi or bus back to Pokhara.

Flora and fauna of Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard and the red panda. The forests of the region are home to many species of trees and plants, including rhododendrons, oaks, pines, magnolias, and orchids. The region is also home to a variety of birds, including the Impeyan pheasant, the Himalayan monal pheasant, and the spiny babbler. The Annapurna region is also home to several species of mammals, including the Himalayan Thar, the Himalayan marmot, and the Himalayan black bear.

Challenges of Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a strenuous trek and requires physical preparation and acclimatization. The highest point on the trek is 4,130 m (13,550 ft), so trekkers should be well-acclimatized before attempting the trek. The weather in the Sanctuary can be unpredictable, so it is important to bring the necessary gear and clothing. The terrain can be challenging, so trekkers should have some mountaineering skills. Finally, it is important to be aware of the altitude.

Annapurna Conservation Area

The Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) is the largest protected area in Nepal, covering an area of 7,629 sq km. The ACA is home to a variety of flora and fauna and is a popular destination for trekkers. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is one of the most popular treks in the region and offers stunning views of the Annapurna range.

Varieties of Flowers in Annapurna conservation area
The Annapurna Conservation Area is home to a variety of flowers, including rhododendrons, magnolias, orchids, and blue poppies. The region also has numerous species of wildflowers, including Primula denticulata, Saxifraga ciliaris, and Meconopsis aculeata. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a great opportunity to explore the region’s unique variety of flora.

‘Adventure around picturesque and scenic Annapurna Sanctuary within sweeping mountain panorama’