The Annapurna Sanctuary

Rarely on a trek of such relatively short duration can one get so close to the great Himalayan peaks where the fearsome south wall of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Gangapurna and other famous summits soar above the meadows of the Sanctuary.

We initially follow a rarely trekked route west from Pokhara across the Panchase Lekh to Ghorapani, before backtracking across the high ridges of the Deorali Pass to Ghandruk. Turning north, we begin the steep ascent beside the Modi Khola where rhododendron forest gives way to high desert landscape and the hidden alpine amphitheatre of the Sanctuary. We then have two days to explore this magnificent mountain wilderness, ringed by glistening peaks around the Annapurna Base Camp, before returning to Pokhara beneath the distinctive and dominating ‘fish tail’ of Machapuchare.

Sample itinerary: (Trek Grade 3)

Day 1: Depart London.  Days 2/3: Arrive Kathmandu & prepare for trek. Overnights Summit Hotel.  Days 4/18: Fly to Pokhara and begin 16-day trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary.  Day 19: End trek in Pokhara and fly to Kathmandu. Overnight Summit Hotel.  Day 20: Fly to London.