Each time, returning from the track to the heart of Annapurna, I slightly changed the route, improving it. After all, I want you to see as much as possible in a limited time, to be saturated with only positive emotions, to fall in love with mountains and travel forever (if suddenly, someone else did not love). And now I can say with confidence that we have presented the best track program possible. And that's why:
- Meeting the group at the airport... Right at the exit from the airport our man with a sign will be waiting for you, who will take you to the hotel. You don't have to worry about it.
- All transfers on ordertransfer... This saved half a day of excursion time.
- 3 * level hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included... You will live in complete comfort before and after the track.
- We meet as many as three sunrises in beautiful placesoh - Poon Hill, Tadapani, Annapurna Base Camp. Most of the groups pass Tadapani, and it is very beautiful there. To greet the rising sun, simply step out onto the lodge's terrace.
- Let's go under the incredible starry sky to Annapurna base camp... We will definitely stop for a couple of minutes and put out the lanterns. Let us absorb the eternity of the cosmos. The stars have never been so close. According to the participants, this is one of the strongest impressions.
- We will spend the night in the best and most vivid lodges on the track... We try very hard to borrow just such.
- We're in no hurry on the track - there will be enough time to enjoy the scenery and snap gigabytes of photos.
- A real thrill awaits us at the end of the trek - Jinu Hot Springs... Tired legs will thank you for a couple of hours of bliss.
- Inspection of all the main attractions of Kathmandu... Swayambudnath, Patan, Pashupatinath, Bodnath stupa - we will see all this, and we will not only drive by cars, but also walk a little - to see what it is - the real capital of Nepal.
- Branded gift "Couloir"... What it will be, you will find out already on the hike)
In addition, before the trip, we will advise you on the preparation and help you with the purchase of tickets. We can buy for you. During the hike, our guide will always come to your rescue, help you with advice, tell you a plan for tomorrow and advise on what to wear. Will tell you what mountains are around and basic information about the sights. In the evening, he will hold fun games.
If you have been on our website before, you may notice that we have additionally included a lot of things in the price (all transfers are ordered, more expensive hotels with breakfasts) and have not raised the price. You are definitely lucky that you came to us.
Program cost: $ 750
- Included in the price:
- Accommodation in lodges on the route;
- Accommodation in a 3 * hotel in Kathmandu (night before and after trekking) based on breakfast;
- Accommodation in a 3 * hotel in Pokhara (1 night) with breakfast;
- Transfer by custom bus Kathmandu-Pokhara-Nayapul;
- Transfer by jeep Nayapul-Khile;
- Transfer by jeep Saoli-Bazaar - Nayapul;
- Transfer by private bus Nayapul-Pokhara-Kathmandu;
- All necessary permits and permits;
- Excursions on the track and in Pokhara;
- Russian speaking guide services;
- Services of a Nepalese guide (for a group of 5 people);
- Track preparation consultations;
- Help with buying air tickets;
- Group first aid kit.
- The price does not include:
- Flight to Nepal (from $ 700);
- Insurance from NS;
- Nepalese visa ($ 30);
- Food ($ 15-30 per day, depending on appetite);
- Porters' services ($ 100 for 12 kg of cargo per track);
- Excursions in Kathmandu (optional, up to $ 30-40);
- Tipping to the local guide and porters (about 20-30 USD);
- Tipping the guide (not necessary, but he will be glad to see it);
- All expenses not specified in the program (force majeure, evacuation).
Total required expenses, not included in the price, will be approximately $ 330 + airfare. Take with you a few hundred dollars in reserve and for souvenirs.
RECOMMENDED: For $ 100, you can order a porter (will carry your 12 kg) for the entire track. Those who have little hiking experience are strongly advised to order a porter right away and not spoil the trekking experience with a heavy backpack.
Payment order
To reserve a place in a group, you need to make a prepayment of $ 100. This money is needed to issue passes and book hotels. In case of cancellation of the trip, the money will not be returned, but it can be transferred to another participant or remain on your "account" to pay for future trips. Payment Methods . The rest of the amount is returned to the instructor on the first day of the hike. In case of departure from the route, the money will not be returned.
Friends! We kindly ask you to pick up dollar bills of 2003 and newer ones. Dollars of the 90s are not accepted in many countries and sometimes we have problems when settling with local partners. Thanks for your understanding and new dollars to everyone :)
Changes in the program
Depending on weather conditions, condition and general wishes of the group, the instructor has the right to make changes to the route.
Mobile communication, Wi-Fi, charging
On the route there will be mobile communications, 3G internet, but in some places it will disappear. To buy a local SIM card, you will need a passport and a 3x4 photo (you can take it from home or make it there for an additional fee). Wi-Fi is available in every lodge, its cost is 100-300 rupees. In large cities there is free internet in cafes. There is charging in almost all lodges, the cost of charging can be per hour or per device, the price is 100-700 rupees.
Meals on the track
The menu in all lodges is extremely varied (different types of eggs, pasta, soups, potatoes, pizza, rice). An interesting feature is that the same dishes in different lodges can be prepared differently and taste completely different! Food prices rise in proportion to height. On average, it will take $ 15-20 per day to eat normally.
Accommodation on the track
In Kathmandu we will be staying at the Hotel Arts ****. Standard accommodation in 2-bed rooms. During the trek, we live in lodges - these are shelters for tourists, which have a public shower, toilet and you can order food. The rooms are very simple, small, for 2-3 people. Often there are only beds of furniture. The beds are provided with clean linens, but it is recommended to bring your own sleeping bag and sleep in it. If desired, you can ask the owners for a cotton blanket. Almost all lodges have electricity, but sockets are rarely available in the rooms. Individual accommodation is possible, additional payment of $ 200 for the entire route.
Weather
Most of the trek is at moderate altitudes. During the day, the temperature will be about +20 degrees, at night it can drop to zero. During early dawn, the temperature can drop to -10. Rains are rare. Typical weather for mountain regions - clear morning and cloudy evening.
Prices, money of Nepal
The country's currency is Nepalese rupees. The rate is approximately 100 rupees to 1 dollar. You can exchange at the hotel at the reception or in the exchange office, with which we have long had agreements for a more favorable rate. The guide will take you to your desired location. It is noteworthy that the Nepalese are very careless of paper money - it is quite normal to pierce a wad of rupees with a stapler. All expenses on the route are in rupees only. For them before the track, exchange about $ 300-400. Bank cards are accepted only in some points in Kathmandu, so be sure to take cash. In addition, there are great restrictions on cash withdrawals from ATMs, and the commission for this is simply extortionate. It is worth buying souvenirs in Thamel stalls (tourist area of \u200b\u200bKathmandu), and not at attractions. Always bargain with the Nepalese, sometimes the price can be dropped several times.
Required documents
A visa to Nepal is issued right at the border, the cost of a visa for 15 days of stay is $ 30. Detailed instructions for registration. To obtain a visa, you only need a valid passport, which is valid for more than 6 months from the date of return flight.
To participate in the hike, you must have no illnesses incompatible with active tourism: .
Track map
Trekking to Annapurna: personal opinion
Hi, my name is Taras Late and most of the time I am the one who leads the Culuire groups on the ABC (Annapurna base camp) track. Since I am the founder and leader of the club along the way, I myself decide where I will lead the groups and every year I go to Nepal. And all because it is an amazing original country in which the highest peaks of the world are located. And there is nothing more beautiful than the sunrise overlooking the eight-thousanders. By the way, on the track to Annapurna, we see three such sunrises. Yes, you won't always be able to get enough sleep, but you can sleep off at home, but now it's better to absorb the maximum energy of the mountains.
It so happened that I love variety. That's why I like the trek to Annapurna base camp, because the landscapes change very quickly on the way! At the very bottom, we swim in the lake and swim in boats, then we walk among the real green jungle, pass the gorges and find ourselves in the highlands. Here from all sides we are surrounded by peaks of the Himalayan peaks. We enjoy them, take plenty of pictures and begin our descent. Another great pleasure awaits us ahead - hot springs, where you can relax and unwind after thousands of steps.
The Annapurna trek is undeniably the best trek to discover Nepal, its culture and nature. It is also the best choice for a beginner trekker - after all, the route is of quite moderate difficulty and everyone can do it with a porter. The heights, as for Nepal, are small, so you don't have to worry about altitude sickness.
In general, if you are a beginner or not confident in your abilities, choose the track to Annapurna.
Nearest Trekking Dates to Annapurna Base Camp
| Start | Finish | Route | Price | Days |
| 28.10.2019 | 08.11.2019 | 750 $ | 12 days | |
| 09.12.2019 | 20.12.2019 | 750 $ | 12 days | |
| 09.03.2020 | 20.03.2020 | 750 $ | 12 days | |
| 12.04.2020 | 23.04.2020 | 750 $ | 12 days | |
| 25.04.2020 | 06.05.2020 | 750 $ | 12 days |
Trekking plan to Annapurna base camp by day
Day 1. Meeting the group in Kathmandu
A favorite city of many travelers from all over the world, including Reinhold Messner, who conquered all 14 highest peaks of the planet alone. He called Kathmandu “the city of life”. The restless spirit of the capital of Nepal is felt almost immediately. And now in a couple of minutes, after leaving the airport, you are driving along the furious streets by taxi to the Thamel area, where a cozy hotel and an instructor are waiting for you. After a little rest, take a walk along the streets of Kathmandu, look into souvenir shops and Nepalese cafes, join the excursion and touch local flavor at the famous Durbar square.
Day 2. Transfer Kathmandu - Pokhara - Nayapul, transfer to Ulleri
In the morning we sit on the bus. He will take the group to the third largest city in Nepal - Pokhara - the place where all the tracks in the area start from, and then to the tourist village of Nayapul. This is where it begins protected area and we need to register teams and permits. After this simple procedure, we will go on a hiking trek to Annapurna.
What are unforgettable experience we are expected all the way to Annapurna trekking! Our trail is not just a trodden path, but an ascent up light stone steps, under the arches of powerful old rhododendrons, among the cries of unknown bright birds and hidden monkeys. During a leisurely climb, you can feel like a character of old Indian fairy tales or, if you like, just a young Mowgli. We will have supper and sleep in the village of Ulleri. From here you can take wonderful photos of the ice pyramid crowning the peak of Khinchuli (6441 m).
Day 3. Ulleri - Gorepani
Today is an early rise, early breakfast (at 7 o'clock) and start. We go to Gorepani (2750 m), a small village located next to the Pun-Khil hill (3193 for Nepal is a hill :). The blue roofs of houses against the backdrop of thickets of beautiful rhododendrons - just an amazing picture! Especially when they bloom all, with all their eight shades of pink. And, of course, a circular panorama of the snowy mountain ranges against a blue sky - Dhualagiri (8167), Annapurna (8091), Machapuchare (6997). Here you can enjoy delicious yak milk cheese and equally delicious apple pies.
You will need to work hard on the steps, but all the difficulties are paid off by the gorgeous landscapes. As you climb, it becomes more beautiful and more interesting. We will get to Gorepani early, we will have time to rest.
Day 4. Sunrise overlooking the 8000s at the top of Poon Hill (3193 m)
Do you want to get a boost of vivacity? Then you should definitely get up early and go to Poon Hill again - to meet the unforgettable sunrise. You will not regret! The same mountains, the same sun, but in the morning they are completely different. Now the snows on the peaks of two Annapurnas (First and South), Dhualagiri, Nilgiri, Machapuchare are filled with first delicate orange shades, and then a real golden shine. Many other tourists from all over the world will look at this divine picture with you. If you are not at a loss, you can meet interesting people.
Having gone down to the village, we have breakfast, have a little rest and set off. First, to the village of Daurali, then to Tadapani, where we will stop for the night. The landscapes, as always, are unrivaled! Below - the green of the jungle, above - the whiteness of snowfields, and between them - the harsh rocky slopes.
Day 5. Sunrise in Tadapani - Chomrong (Sinuva)
We get up early again, but not as early as yesterday. After all, today we do not need to go anywhere to enjoy another sunrise. We just open the door of the room, go out onto the terrace of the lodge and freeze in admiration! The majestic mountains have become much closer. Today we admire Machapuchre, Annapurna South and Khinchuli.
Further we will have a steep descent and a smoother ascent to Chomrong - a village where we will stop for the night. As you may have guessed, we could not choose a place to spend the night without dizzying views, so again we enjoy the snow-white peaks and green canyons. By the way, today you can leave unnecessary things - on the way back we will also follow this path, after which we will turn down to the hot springs. Taking a dip in the warm baths after trekking is a real pleasure!
Day 6. Chomrong - Dovan
In the morning we will have a long descent to the bridge on the Chomrong Khola river. Is that where you will "run" the 2114 steps (you yourself counted in one of the tracks!)? Nowhere. So go ahead. Moreover, further - the steps go up. And we will climb for a long time, to the very village of Sinuva. It will be difficult, but we are in the Himalayas, and without this ascent, what difficulties of trekking can you tell at home? Moreover, all other stages of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp will be easier.
The day will end at the village of Dovan. There we will have a delicious dinner and a sound sleep.
Day 7. Dovan - Machapuchare Base Camp (3700 m)
We leave Dovan and stomp along a winding path in the valley of the Modi Khola river. The path is lined with thickets of jungle, and overhead hangs a high-high blue sky propped up by the snow-covered and icy peaks of Annapurna and Machapuchare. By the way, the name of the last mountain is translated as “fish tail”. Try to find similarities. We are sure you will succeed :)
The higher we go, the more severe the surrounding nature becomes, the less greenery, the more desolate and rocky the slopes. The surrounding panorama is revived by streams and waterfalls originating in the Annapurna and Machapuchare glaciers.
Even here, Nepal preserves its holy places. This is the Hinku cave, small and shallow, but it is the refuge of the holy hermit. Trust and feel this prayed place. We will have dinner and spend the night in Deorali.
After 6 hours of ascent, we finally arrive at Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC). Mount "Fishtail" in Nepal is considered the home of the main deity Shiva. Climbing there is prohibited. The only time in 1957, the conquerors tried to rise, but withdrew from the race. Apparently, Shiva did not expect such guests. So we won't go there \u003d)).
We throw our things in the lodges, and we ourselves go on a small acclimatization walk to the next ridge. Behind it there is an excellent view of the Annapurna glacier moraine.
Day 8. Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m), descent to Bamba
We get up in the dark, two hours before sunrise. We dress warmly, take flashlights and go out on the trail to ABC. On the way, one of the most incredible and memorable sights awaits us - the starry sky of the Annapurna sanctuary. Most likely, you have never seen stars so close and in such numbers!
Next we will find Annapurna Base Camp - our goal. The camp is located in the center of a valley, the edges of which are bounded by ridges of snow-capped mountains. In the camp, you can, if not meet, then look at those who will conquer Annapurna first. Daredevils. This peak is very insidious, until 2008 it was the most dangerous in the world - 40% of the dead from those who decided to climb. Memorial signs about these people are often found in the camp. One of them is the legendary Russian climber Anatoly Bukreev. Without oxygen, he climbed eleven 8-thousanders. He climbed five 8-thousanders within one year - this is a world record. Killed while climbing Annapurna in 1997 during an avalanche. Blessed memory of the heroes!
But now the lights of the base camp are getting closer, and the stars in the sky are getting smaller. One and a half hour journey - and we are on the observation deck, from where a unique view of the Annapurna massif opens. The mountains are gorgeous in the rays rising sun... Unforgettable circular panoramas of the peaks, shimmering with all shades of the rainbow, take your breath away. This cannot be missed. Therefore, first we walk and take pictures, and only then we drink tea and go back to ABC. After breakfast, we begin to descend, saying goodbye to the camp. Some of the group will definitely come back here. Checked.
By the traversed roads we reach the village of Bambu, where we will spend the night and rest. It is warmer here, it is easier to breathe, you feel better. And around is still a majestic picture of mountain slopes, blue skies and white clouds.
Day 9. Bambu - Ginu Danda Hot Springs
In the morning, we will continue our descent to the Modi Khola gorge, then along the suspended bridge we get to the already familiar steps in the amount of 2114. Now we climb them. It's a little harder. Nothing, we'll rest in Chomrong. And when we reach the village of Ginu Danda, we will even take a hot tub, revitalizing and calming, warming and healing! Sumptuously! The most daring, for a better contrast, can swim in the mountain river Modi. And all together - to consider a great number of monkeys on the opposite bank in the jungle thickets.
Day 10. Nayapul - Pokahara
Early in the morning, along a very comfortable path, without any sharp turns and descents, we stomp to Nayapul, to the bus that will take us to Pokhara for lunch and a short rest. On the way, we breathe in the purest air, feel the extraordinary energy of these places, peer into the surrounding landscapes and try to remember our feelings more clearly, because we are already saying goodbye to the wild nature of Nepal. Further civilization awaits us, and nature - only from the bus window.
Day 11. Boating on Lake Phewa, climbing the Stupa of Peace, visiting the Davis waterfall and Shiva temple, moving to Kathmandu
As you have already noticed, our program is as rich as possible. We get up in the morning and go boating on the picturesque Phewa Lake - the favorite lake of the royal family who once lived here. We will swim to the opposite bank, where we will climb the path in the jungle to the Peace Stupa. It offers an excellent view of Pokhara and the peaks of the Ring of Annapurna. We cast a farewell glance at them and go down to the hotel. Then we plunge into the bus waiting for us and drive to the Davis waterfall. The waterfall falls in a small trickle into a vertical cave. The waterfall itself is not so remarkable and spectacular, if not for one "but". Away from the main entrance there is a very interesting underground temple Shiva. The Supreme God is represented in the guise of a six-headed snake, imprisoned in a cage. Behind the cage underground passage leads into the depths ... We go along it and go out to the foot of the waterfall! A very interesting and sacred place.
After sightseeing, board our bus and head to Kathmandu. We will reach the hotel after dark.
Day 12. Excursions in Kathmandu, flight home ..
So our wonderful journey has come to an end. We recommend taking tickets for the evening so you will have more time in Kathmandu. You can choose to buy souvenirs, wander the streets of Thamel or go sightseeing. Who wants what more. Our guide will help you organize virtually any activity.
Most travelers who come to Nepal return here again. So we do not say goodbye to you, but say "See you soon!" Thank you for the company and a wonderful track!
Who is this track for
If this is your first time going to Nepal, you want to see the maximum in order to fully get acquainted with the variety of Himalayan landscapes, walk through the jungle and forests and reach the highest mountains of our planet - you are on the right track. This track is considered the easiest and most accessible in Nepal, so beginners are often registered in groups who are not confident in their strength and altitude tolerance. In addition to a wide variety of nature (jungles, gorges, rivers and waterfalls, canyons, mountains large and small), you will also often meet monasteries and other Nepalese shrines, where you can visit puja, imbued with the spirit of Buddhism. The main highlights of the route are observation platformswhere we go out to meet the dawn. You will need to get up early, freeze a little, but the views of the awakening mountains will remain the most vivid impressions in your life.
How to prepare for the track
Due to the fact that we sleep and eat in lodges, backpacks on the route will be light. In addition, it is always possible to hire a porter, which we highly recommend to all participants. He will carry the main part of your things (up to 12 kg), and you will go with a small backpack, in which you will carry a warm jacket, water, documents and money. The track to the Annapurna base camp is the easiest and simplest by Nepalese standards, it is within the power of every person leading an active lifestyle. But just getting off the couch and walking the track will be very difficult. Running (about 5-7 km 2-3 times a week), squats, cardio exercises, which will not only increase your endurance, but also train your legs for daily transitions, are best suited for preparing for a mountain track. The better your physical condition, the easier you will be able to endure altitude, get acclimatized and more enjoy the track and the scenery around you.
When to go
As in other regions of Nepal, there are two seasons for trekking in the Himalayas - spring (mid March to late May) and autumn (mid October to mid December). If you go in the spring, then you need to be prepared for the fact that on the way to the base camp there will be snow, and sometimes avalanches are possible. But a big plus during this period is the flowering rhododendra forests, which create incredible contrasting pictures against the background of snow-white mountains. And the base camp is bustling with life and prepares future climbers. In the afternoon in the spring, the sky is often covered with clouds and at about 3-4 pm it can start to rain. But by this time we usually arrive at the lodge. Autumn is warmer, there are practically no clouds, the snow has melted everywhere, the base camp is empty.
When and where to buy tickets to Kathmandu
You need to buy tickets in advance, as soon as we confirm your participation in the track. It is most convenient to fly from the CIS with AirArabia and FlyDubai, and it is worth buying tickets on their websites. Please note that luggage is not included in the price and you will need to order 20 kg at the time of purchase, or immediately take a package including 1 piece of luggage. When boarding, you need the credit card used to pay for the tickets - don't forget it! The cost of tickets in both directions is $ 500-700.
Buying equipment
Probably everyone knows that Nepal is famous for extremely cheap travel equipment. So, it really is! A fleece can be bought for $ 5, a down jacket from $ 30, trekking poles from $ 10. But you must understand that despite the tag, this is not branded equipment, but made somewhere in local basements. There are shops with the original, but the prices there are the same as ours. In general, it is not necessary to lug the whole heap of equipment from home, most of them can be bought cheap already locally. There are simply an unrealistic number of tourist shops. Read more about the equipment in a separate section.
Porters
Porters are porters who carry your things for money. No more than 24 kg can be loaded per porter. The cost of such a service is about $ 20 per day, but you can take one porter for two - it will be half the price! It is not customary to pity the porters, no matter how much they load on themselves. As well as inviting them to your table. In lodges, porters have their own room where they eat and sleep with friends. Your best gratitude would be a tip equal to the porter's daily wage. So prepare an extra $ 10-20 for tea for a porter and a Nepalese guide.
IMPORTANT!The guide has the right to refuse you to participate in the program if your equipment does not correspond to the recommended on the website. For example, if instead of mountain boots you took sneakers or rubber boots.
Please, be as responsible as possible when collecting equipment. Not only your health depends on this, but also the comfortable passage of the route as a group as a whole!
RECOMMENDED 🔔When packing a backpack, put all things in plastic bags (you can use trash bags), this will protect them from getting wet in case of heavy rain or snow.
There is nothing worse than a wet sleeping bag on a hike, put it in the strongest bag that will definitely not tear. Also pack warm clothes very carefully, especially down ones. Stay dry and have fun with the adventure!
List of equipment for the track
Footwear
- Trekking boots - semi-high, hard, well worn. Article: ""
- Trekking shoes - optional, but will be more comfortable at low altitudes
- Trekking sandals, crocs - for light trails and rest in the camp
clothing
- Light headgear - cap, buff
- Warm hat - ideal ones are sold in Kathmandu for 1-2 dollars
- Fleece gloves
- Light down jacket, always with a hood (designed for 0 ..- 5 degrees)
- Membrane jacket with ventilation, windproof "skirt" and hood
- Diaphragm pants - self-discharge or with ventilation - optional
- Lightweight trekking pants
- Shorts
- Warm fleece or Polartec
- Lightweight fleece
- Fleece suit for sleeping (or "not active" thermal suit)
- A set of good active thermal underwear - for movement. Article: ""
- T-shirts - 2-3 pieces
- Trekking socks - 5 pairs. We use Nepalese for $ 1.5-2 a pair.
- Woolen socks - 1 pair for sleeping
- Shoe covers (flashlights)
- Changeable underwear
- Raincoat or poncho
- Light dress for photos (it is really beautiful :)
Equipment
- Sleeping bag. Comfort temperature 0 ..- 5 for men and -2 ..- 7 ° С for girls. Article: ""
- Lightweight trekking backpack for 30-40 liters. Article: ""
- Nice sunglasses (protection factor 4) in a hard case
- Microfiber Towel
- Thermos for 0.5-0.7 liters (optional)
- Head Torch
- Trekking poles. Article: ""
- Personal first aid kit. The composition of a personal first aid kit is here: ""
- Sun cream with at least 50 units of protection
- Hygienic lipstick
- Moisturizing hand cream
- Stock of wet sanitary napkins
- Toilet paper
- Documents, money - in a sealed package
- Camera, telephone
- A set of personal goodies - sneakers, nuts. Small, up to 1 kg in weight
- Powerbanks - better a couple
- Small toys, pencils, notepads as a gift for local children
Tablets (in addition to a personal first aid kit)
There are no miraculous pills to save you from altitude sickness. The main thing here is smooth and competent acclimatization. Some pills can make it faster and easier. If you are confident in your abilities, you do not need to take pills.
- Diacarb, Aceteselomide is the active ingredient of Diamax. Start taking one tablet in the morning the day before reaching an altitude of 3000 m. Diuretic, lowers internal pressure. According to our personal observations, it really helps the participants to better tolerate the height. Contraindicated in the presence of renal failure
- Hypoxen - recommended for increased physical exertion, including mountain climbing... Start taking a week before the track
- Vitamins - prepare your body for stress, compensate for vitamin deficiencies in the mountain diet. Start taking two weeks before the start.
Description
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp through Machapuchare Base Camp is one of the most beautiful hiking routes to the first eight-thousander climbed by a man.
Annapurna is a huge mountain range in central Nepal, stretching 55 km in the Himalayas.
Annapurna I (8091m) is the tenth out of fourteen in height and the most dangerous eight-thousander in the world. Nearby are two secondary peaks - Annapurna Central (8051 m) and Annapurna Vostochnaya (8026 m).
Along the northern slopes of Annapurna, you can find many species of plants in different climates - from bamboos and bananas to conifers in northern latitudes. On the south side of Annapurna I forms a closed circus with steep walls - the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The peculiarity of the track is that the path will pass through the Machapuchare Base Camp at an altitude of 3700 m. Machapuchare is considered in Nepal sacred mountain and is completely closed for climbing.
You need to go because:
- annapurna - a huge mountain range (55 km) awaits you;
- the maximum climb in your journey - 4310 m;
- while trekking, you will be surrounded by stunning views;
- the route passes through the Machapuchare Base Camp - a sacred mountain for the Nepalese, closed for mountaineering;
- you will visit Pokhara - the "southern" capital of Nepal;
- see Kathmandu - the oldest cultural center of Nepal.
Moscow - Kathmandu - Pokhara - Nayapul - Biretanti - Gandruk - Chomrong - Bambu - BC Machapuchare - Annapurna Sanctuary - Deurali - Anapurna BC - Bambu - Jinu Danda - Nayapul - Pokhara - Kathmandu - Moscow
Full description of the program by day
Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport you will be met by our representative. After completing customs formalities (visa, etc.), you will collect your luggage and drive to your hotel.
Transfer to Pokhara (823 m). Trekking
Trekking: 6-7 hours.
Transfer to Pokhara (5 hours) - beautiful citylocated by the lake at an altitude of 823 m. On the way you will be accompanied by magnificent views of the Himalayas.
Nayapul. Trek to Gandruk (1940 m)
Trekking: 1 hour 20 minutes.
After breakfast you will drive to Nayapul. From there, from Biretanti, trekking to Gandruk (1940 m) awaits you, a beautiful village inhabited by the gurung community. If time permits, you can also visit the gurung museum.
Overnight in the village of Gandruk.
From Gandruk village (1940 m) to Chomrong (2170 m)
Trekking: 5-6 hours.
On this day you will climb up to Kimrungdand. The ascent will take about an hour, on the way you can admire beautiful views of Annapurna South, Khivanchuli, Mount Fishtail (Machapuchare) and Gangapurna.
A steep descent will take you to Kimrong Khola. After another steep climb from Kimrong Khol to Chere Danda, you will descend for a while and it will be an easy walk to Chomrong (2170 m) - a beautiful village located near the giant Annapurna massif.
Overnight in Chomrong.
From Chomrong (2,170 m) to Bambu (2,310 m)
Trekking: 4-5 hours.
The trail from Chomrong goes down. You have to go down 2500 stone steps and cross Chomrong Khola on a suspension bridge. This is a climb up Mount Sinuva. Then walk through a beautiful forest to Kuldikhar and reach Bambu (2310 m).
Overnight in Bambu.
From Bambu (2310 m) to Deurali (3230 m)
Trekking: 3-4 hours.
You will walk through a wet and cool bamboo forest and then climb steadily. There will be fewer steep sections along the way. Only after you reach the Himalaya Hotel will the forest part and you will be out in the sun again. There are striking views of the glacial river below.
The next step is to climb a steep climb through much drier forests before reaching the Hinku Cave. From here, you will see how the trail goes closer to the river. Then you will climb again to Deurali (3230 m) - the most picturesque part of the day. The vegetation is sparse here, allowing you to enjoy magical views of the valley, the river below and cascades of cliffs with thin strips of waterfalls.
Overnight in Deurali.
Route to BC Annapurna (4130 m) through BC Machapuchare (3700 m)
Trekking: 5-6 hours.
Today we have a difficult route: first, climb through the river bed, then along a steep path to the mountain side. From the Machapuchare base camp (3700 m), a beautiful view of the majestic peaks of Machapuchare (6993 m), Hiunchuli (6441 m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna III (7555 m), Gandharva Chuli ( 6248 m) and Gangapurna (7455 m).
The vegetation on the way to the camp will change, and the path will widen as you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary. From here, a breathtaking view opens up: the southern side of Annapurna rises almost vertically above us. The Annapurna Sanctuary boasts a wide view, here you can cover a panorama of 360 degrees without obstacles.
At the base camp, you can enjoy contemplating the mesmerizing Machapuchare, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli and other peaks.
Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m).
Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) to Bamba (2310 m)
Trekking: 7-8 hours.
From Annapurna Base Camp you will return to Bamba. On this day, the path goes down, so the track is not difficult. In addition, you will be encouraged by the extraordinary landscapes that accompany you all the way.
Overnight in Bambu (2310 m).
From Bambu (2,310m) to Gina Danda (1,760m)
Trekking: 5-6 hours.
From Bambu you will climb to Kuldigar and then descend to Chomrong Kol. From there you will climb the stone steps to Chomrong. Then the trail descends to Jin Danda (1760 m), where you will stop for the night.
Today you will have the opportunity to enjoy a dip in the hot springs. The springs are located 15-20 minutes walk down the hill from Jinu Danda. Water will perfectly soothe a body that is aching after exertion.
Overnight at Gina Danda.
Trekking to Nayapul. Moving to Pokhara (823 m)
Trekking: 6 hours, transfer: 1 hour.
Enjoy stunning views on the way from Jinu Danda to Nayapul mountain sky in western Nepal. Lunch on the way.
The trekking will end in Nayapula. There will be a car waiting for you to Pokhara (823 m).
Overnight in Pokhara.
Moving to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will drive to Kathmandu. To celebrate the successful completion of the trip, a cultural program and gala dinner will be organized in the evening.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Homecoming
Today our adventures in Nepal end, but you will have plenty of time to plan the next ones!
You will be transferred to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight to Moscow.
Cost from local guide for 1 person in a group:
Price with a guide "BASK Tour" for 1 person in a group:
The cost enters
- depending on the program: accompanied by a Russian guide or a local English-speaking guide
- meeting at the airport
- all ground crossings
- accommodation in a 3 * hotel in Kathmandu (2 nights), hotel with breakfast
- accommodation in a 3 * hotel in Pokhara (2 nights), hotel with breakfast
- accommodation in loggias on the route
- national park permits
The cost excluded
- air tickets Moscow - Kathmandu - Moscow (cost from 40,000 rubles)
- visa to Nepal 25 USD (issued at the airport upon arrival)
- food in cities (except breakfast)
- meals on the route (15-20 $)
- all personal expenses (battery recharging for the shower, laundry, etc.)
- porter for personal belongings, carries 20-22 kg, pay $ 18 per day, one porter for two tourists ($ 90)
- tip to guide and porter, $ 30
- medical insurance, trekking $ 4.2 / day
Important information
- Necessary clothing and footwear
- down jacket at -10 ° С
- storm jacket with membrane
- polartec jacket or fleece
- storm trousers with membrane
- trekking trousers
- polartec pants or fleece
- warm underwear
- thin thermal underwear
- warm trekking socks (3-4 pairs, warm and light)
- gloves up to -10 ° С
- windproof hat
- cap
- t-shirt
- long sleeve shirt (2 pcs.)
- shorts
- trekking sneakers
- trekking boots
- Special equipment
- telescopic sticks
- headlamp with 2 sets of batteries
- sunglasses
- backpack for day trips (30 l)
- bag 120 l
- sleeping bag at -15 ° С
- Tourist equipment
- thermos (1 l)
- sun cream
- hygienic lipstick
- personal first aid kit
- sunscreen (50 units)
- towel
- toothbrush and paste
- stock of wet sanitary napkins
- Documents
- international passport
- for citizens of the Russian Federation, a visa is placed directly at the airport upon arrival in Nepal. The visa is paid locally. The cost of a visa depends on the number of days of stay in Nepal: up to 15 days - 25 USD, more than 15 days - 40 USD. To obtain a visa, you need 2 photos of 3x4 cm, it is better to bring a photo with you.
- Transport
Transfers from / to airports - by taxi or minivan.
- Residence
- in Kathmandu hotel accommodation with breakfast (2 nights)
- in Pokhara hotel accommodation with breakfast (2 nights)
- on the track, accommodation in lodges, in small rooms, for 2 people
- Food
- breakfast included in hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara are paid independently (approximately 20-30 USD for lunch / dinner)
- Weather
The weather at this time is stable and sunny. And if in the lower part of the trekking you can sometimes walk in a T-shirt, then it will be cooler higher, especially at night. During the day, you can walk on the track in a fleece jacket. But a supply of warm clothes is needed in case of bad weather. Precipitation is possible in the form of rain below and snow above 3500 m. The temperature below is + 19C, + 21C, in the mountains it is cooler. At night, the temperature can drop to -5C and below.
- Insurance and medicine
- no special vaccinations are required to enter Nepal. During the ascent, the guide will have a first aid kit, but it is better to have a personal first aid kit with you
- insurance is required that takes into account the risks associated with alpine trekking.
- A responsibility
The guides accompanying the group throughout the entire program ensure safety only if the rules and safety measures of all participants without exception are observed. Therefore, we recommend that you listen to the opinions and advice of the guides accompanying you. During transitions and in critical situations, participants must fully and unquestionably follow the recommendations and guidelines of the guides. All actions and decisions on the route during a situation that threaten the safety of participants are exclusively in the competence of the guides accompanying the group.
Please note that your guide has the right to change or cancel any part of the route if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Every effort will be made to adhere to the above route; however, since this adventure is a trip to remote mountainous areas, we cannot guarantee that we will not stray from it. Weather conditions, the health of a member of the group, unexpected natural disasters, etc. may cause changes in the itinerary. The guide will try to ensure that the trip is in line with the travel plan, but please be flexible if necessary.
Our guides have with them the necessary group equipment, a GPS-navigator with points driven into it along the route, a radio for communication with each other, mobile phone with the numbers of the district rescue services, as well as a first aid kit for first aid.
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is one of the three most beautiful trekking routes in Nepal. I want to talk about him in this publication.
Last year when I was trekking around Annapurna I was talking to a guy. He said that his son walked both these routes, ABC and circular, and spoke very coolly about ABC. It was then that the desire crept in to go to Annapurna base camp on the next visit to Nepal.
The cost of each document is about $ 20. If you go with a guide, the situation changes somewhat, the cost of documents is lower, but, again, you have to pay for a guide. Whether you need a guide or not - decide for yourself, I don't like walking with guides. There are no difficulties on the route, everything is clear and clear.
For information on prices and costs, I wrote in the report about tecking to Everest base camp. Of the equipment, a sleeping bag, good shoes and warm clothes are required. Upstairs, temperatures drop below zero at night even in summer.
You can go this trek in different ways, including combining the Punhill trekking or even with the circular around Annapurna. If, of course, you have the strength and time.
We decided to follow the classics, starting with Nyapool, through Gandruk and on way back through the hot springs to Jinudanda on the map below and end at Phedi. On average, the trek takes 7-8 days. Agencies are putting in 10. It is not clear, however, why. Walking at an average pace can be done 4 days before ABC and three days ago. You can go much faster, and keep within 3 there and two back. But you need it or not - decide for yourself. Do not forget that usually the body already needs acclimatization at this altitude.
You can go in the opposite direction, but then the sources are not after the main section, but before. Then decide for yourself.
You can get to Nayapul / Phedi from Pokhara either by regular bus, at about 7:30 from the tourist bus station (there are two of them in Pokhara), or by car. The bus stands everywhere for a long time, calls in different places and travels for a long time. The car is much faster, and the money is not particularly expensive. This time we went by car, for about $ 15. for everyone. Of course, the driver resisted, asked twice as much - but nevertheless agreed and drove off. I will not say anything about the road by car, they drive like crazy, and even those who are used to it are sometimes scary. Especially when the driver in a passenger car overtakes the bus on a narrow road, with a curved shoulder, on a serpentine road with steep and deep canyons at high speed))) That is still an attraction! We also took a taxi back, for about $ 12. I am sure that it would be possible to leave in 9-10, but Katya got sick, and we didn't really want to wait and bargain for three dollars. The way back is much shorter though.
The trek from Nyapool starts along the road. Not a very interesting site. Cars and buses drive, dust, noise and so on. In principle, you can drive a jeep if you wish. We went on foot.
After a couple of hours, the trek goes to the path, which becomes more pleasant to walk. Gradually, beautiful views of rice fields and Nepalese houses.
Annapurna is already visible from Gandruk, so you can safely spend the night here or stop for tea.
The trail from Gandruk goes in two ways: the first - going down to the right to the river past Jin, the second - through the left through the pass, towards Ghorepani. Just on the opposite slope in the photo above. We went along it, though we got into the rain. So there are few pictures.
Chomrong offers a beautiful view of the snowy peaks. Here in the lodges there are still reasonable prices, and you can catch the Internet. From Chomrong, a path branches off down to Gina, to the springs. There is one road from Chomrong to ABC and back.
After Chamrong, the trail goes down to the river, and then smoothly climbs up to ABC. This section of the trek goes through a very picturesque forest. This forest is found in Nepal at an altitude of up to 3000m in different places, very fabulous and unique!
We decided to spend the night in the Himalayas. Village with nice name turned out to be unremarkable. Lodges and food here are already very expensive, and when trying to bargain, the representative of one of the two loggias was offended and said that there were no rooms, everything was occupied. Somehow so stupid. As a result, we settled in the dormitory of our neighbors, although it was not easy to find a place. There are many people, but not so many places. I have never seen anything like this in Nepal, so be careful with your bidding.
On the way, you often see such maps:
Above the Himalayas, the forest gradually turns into bare slopes. There are snow tongues, waterfalls and streams.
In Deurali, at an altitude of 3100m, we decided to drink some tea. The sun came out and beautiful views opened up.
Closer to the MFR, the weather deteriorated, and snow began to fall.
Many stay overnight here and go to ABC in the morning. We decided to meet the dawn at the top. Having the experience of last night, I asked to call and book us a room at ABC. So we had a snack and moved on, with practically zero visibility.
In Nepal at this time of the year, the sky is often dragged in after lunch, and at night the sky is clear again. This is because warm, moist masses come up to the cold slopes and condense into clouds. There is no such thing in autumn and winter, but there is much more snow.
The moon was full and I decided to take a photo of the gorge, see the photo above.
Sleeping at altitude is usually poor, especially after a short acclimatization. And even after taking a sleeping pill, I still could not rest properly. In the morning, on an alarm clock, we found ourselves among the snowy peaks of indescribable beauty, in general, judge for yourself. Very pretty, but also very cold, so dress well!
For a long time we decided not to linger and start the descent right after breakfast. The view at the same plate in the morning looked much brighter, as well as the views around.
View to the top of Machapuchare. From Pokhara, this peak looks different and seems to be higher than all the others.
We decided to drink some tea and admire these views before the descent at MFC, it is very difficult to take our eyes off these peaks!
The descent was very fast, in one breath you can say. Below are some photos of the same places in good weather.
June 24th, 2012 
It's no secret that the Himalayas are the highest mountains in the world!
It is also no secret to anyone that in order to give up all the delights of civilization, favorite food, shower, toilet,and leave with an 18 kg backpack in eternity the highest mountains in the world, survive a lack of oxygen, legs fall off daily, shoulders fall off daily, endlesslycharred nose, the need to put on ALL the available clothes and a sleeping bag while sleeping, you can continue indefinitely ...
In order to do this, you needweighty reason and not weak motivation!
If you are a beginner in trekking or an experienced tracker, and from walking 15-20 km a day along "hilly" terrain you reach the state of Nirvana + you happen to be in Nepal, and you have absolutely nothing to do for 7-9 days - then this track is exactly for you!
Read and see below about what makes you climb out of warm indoor slippers, limit yourself to the full program and drag by the ears into the mountains ...
This wonderful tracking happened to me last spring.
In the Himalayas, practically nothing has changed since the beginning of time, so we can safely say that in 100, 200 and 500 years this virtual photo trip in my footsteps will be relevant.
So ladies and gentlemen, I invite you to take a walk to Annapurna I Base Camp!
The Annapurna mountain range is located in the Himalayas (Annapurna means the Goddess of Fertility in Sanskrit)
Annapurna trek is ranked among the 10 most beautiful walking walks in the world, according to National Geograhphic.
They go to this track from the world trekking capital - the city of Pokhara, and return to it after the trek andresting to the fullest, overgrown, smelly and grimy trackers, children, but more on that later.
My magical track began from Gorepani (literally "water for horses" not.) - the place from which especially lazy trackers, old people, children and small mountain lovers climb up to Poon Hill - tourists, in the usual sense, who were brought to the Himalayas out of pure curiosity and striving to share in the great and eternal.
I have a completely different story ...
It was the 28th day of the expedition around Annapurna ...
I + Anton + Kolya (all natives of the glorious provincial paradise - Zhitomir), 18 kg behind me, 30 for Anton and 5 and a half for Kolya.
Kolya decided not to take anything but gas burner, 1 a T-shirt from the sleeves of which he made a buff hat, 1 sweatshirt, 1 pants with fish fur, 1 shorts, 2 underpants, 2 socks and 10 cans of tuna. He regretted the lack of a jacket and a sleeping bag when he almost froze to himself everything during the ascent to the Torung La pass, but I will tell you about this in detail in "32 days around Annapurna".
On the 28th day, walking at least 18-20 km a day, we turned into walking robots. It was unbearably painful to decide to go to Base Camp Annapurna, as it is unbearably painful not to accept it. On the one hand, the mango season in Pokhara, on the other + another 7 days without a shower.
This stupid thing - "since-here-sin-don't-go"took over us once again (!), and we, unable to cope with this feeling, hit the road ...
In English, this track sounds like Annapurna Base Camp trek \u003d abbreviated as ABC.
The entire territory around the Annapurna mountain range has been declared a conservation area, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project is keeping track of the placement of such signs in it. ACAP
Almost all the Himalayas up to 3000 m look the same: picturesque villages, terraced fields, river gorges, emerald hills behind 10 tiers of which you can see snow-white caps of many thousands
This is how the Nepalese see the Himalayas ...
According to locals, this map-scheme, and there is a similar one in every village, should help trackers navigate the area. It also flaunts the animals that live in the region.
After 23.14 km we finally made our way to Chomrong, where we spent the night. All the inconveniences were more than compensated by the fabulous views.
In the photo above- sacred mountain Machapuchare (lit. "Fishtail Nep.) Locals believe that at its top is Shiva in meditation - one of the central deities of Hinduism.
After the cuckoo was blown off by the climbers back in the 50s - the group went completely mad, not reaching the summit 52 m, the Nepalese authorities decided to close it.
Machapuchare (almost 7000 meters 6993 m) to this day has remained an unconquered peak and one of the prettiest peaks in the ranking after the Alpine Matterhorn, which you all know from Toblerone chocolates.
On the left - Annapurna South 7219 m, on the right - Khinchuli 6441.
Annapurna in the ocean of stars
Night view from the balcony
Our guesthouse. With the onset of darkness, absolutely everything around has changed. The Milky Way was clearly outlined in the sky, and somehow we immediately became quiet and thought about the main and eternal ...
"Tail" under the stars
Day 2. At 4.45 in the morning I went to the balcony and managed to grab the Fishtail in the morning azure
First rays on Annapurna
General view of the village in the morning from the same "night" balcony
One American tourist wrote in The Times about the magic chocolate cake that the local "natives" bake. There is now a sign in the middle of the village, preventing hungry trackers from passing by. I did not pass, and I can say that I didn’t eat tastier!
After a thermos of morning tea, we set off ahead to conquer our next 26.2 km in the rain. Oh how I love tracking! The motivation to be in Pokhara in 4 days instead of 7 and to eat ripe mango began to take over our mind
At the end of this climb I got seasick
The situation was corrected by a halt and another completely ridiculous map.
What the author wanted to say remained a mystery: either that a giant woman is wandering through the local forests who steals men, or there is a dance school in this village, or a first-aid post ... the question remains open ...
The path led us into a fairy forest, as if from "Avatar"
Every now and then I waited for the next turn to lookDiplodocus or Triceratops (:
Bush tree - Rhododendron - the symbol of Nepal
Rhododendron flowers come in a wide variety of colors, from white to burgundy red
The inflorescence consists of 24-26 flowers on average. The most real flower is a cone
A horse appeared at the next turn. She only lacked a horn, so that our roof finally went from the fabulousness of local forests and landscapes ...
Following him, 3 hefty langur monkeys appeared out of nowhere and settled on the branches in an excellent composition ... I hope you recognized them as the characters on the map above
Soon after them these "mycelium friends" appeared
Mini me and a huge glacier!
The path passes through the zone of avalanches, it is crossed by glaciers that descend from Khinchuli
On the left is an ice crocodile;)
Finally, a place to spend the night seemed!
On this day, I was especially "not funny" - 26.2 km in the rain, got wet to my underwear, on the descent from the pass a week earlier I injured my knee and it suddenly decided to remind of itself in the most unpleasant way - I wanted to cry, have dinner, kill Anton and yourself. Why I didn't understand myself ...
Kolya was "more lucky", he bravely walked 3 paths and sprained his ankle - we had to leave him in Bamba, a village with absolutely no view, to wait for our return.
We thought, "But there are Red Pandas in Bamba, so if he is so lucky, he has a real chance to see this extremely rare beautiful animal!"
About Panda. I have dreamed of seeing her ever since my feet set foot on the Himalayan lands. Over the past 4 years, spent mostly in the Himalayas, I literally twisted my neck, expecting to see this charming creature among the next thickets of bamboo.
Day 3. Dawn looked very modest - the fin of the "Fishtail"
But Anton managed to shoot his "millionth" shot with the stars at night.
If you are an Internet user, then 90% of the probability that you know this gorge
Above 3500 m, along the entire path, there are such green bush.
In general, the entire flora above 3500 m grows "with a fleece" ... this fleece protects plants from freezing temperatures at night, and in the morning there is literally no way to pass by such a miracle with millions of bead droplets!
I could not calm down and made 100 frames in all possible angles of droplets and furry of all degrees and calibers!
As it turned out later, this is a Himalayan celandine
Sorry for the 100th shot of the same ... in my mind they are all completely different;)
2 hours after the exit, Machapuchare Base Camp appeared.
It is located at an altitude of 3700 m.
The height here begins to make itself felt ... step - inhale ... step - exhale ... shortness of breath ... our ascent was delayed.
Since we had good acclimatization, we immediately went to storm Annapurna Base Camp. Usually trackers stop at the "tail camp" and spend 24 hours for better acclimatization.
If, without acclimatization, you immediately go up to BL Annapurna, and this is + 500 m, your head will hurt and literally "boil your brains" - they frighten all tourists with such fairy tales, but there is some truth in this.
Altitude sickness is a bad joke
Halfway we looked around, and I could not resist the temptation to immortalize myself against the background of the "tailed" beauty
Mirror to another world
Such funny purple primrose flowers reminded of one purple alpine ladybird. Now I realized that she is purple because she eats purple flowers! It's simple!))
500 m of ascent along a relatively flat terrain seemed to have turned to infinity for us ... and only an hour passed
The glacier that descends from Annapurna
You can see my satisfied face above ...
After a desperate 2-hour climb of 430 meters, leaving today's 9.6 km behind, and a total of about 60 (taking into account the pedometer error), we got to the Base Camp!
The legendary place from which climbers from all over the world are trying to conquer the deadliest peak in the world - Annapurna I! The place of death of hundreds of climbers, including the legendary Anatoly Bukreev - whose memorial is located exactly on ABC
Legends are born here!
In the next. just read about an unforgettable night under billions of stars in one of the most beautiful places on the planet
26 Mar
Geography
Annapurna is a mass of peaks in central Nepal in the southern spur of the main Himalayan ridge. Between the valleys of the Kali-Gandaki and Modi Khola rivers, they form a mountain bastion headed by Annapurna Glavnaya (8091 m). The main peaks of the massif are Annapurna II (7937 m.), Annapurna III (7555 m.), Annapurna IV (7525 m.), Gangapurna (7455 m.), Annapurna Yuzhnaya (7219 m.). They have nothing to do with the main eight-thousander, they got their names only for their proximity to it. The most mysterious in this company is Machapuchra (6993 m.). "Macha" is translated from Nepalese as fish, "puchare" - tail. English-speaking tourists call it Fishtail, because when viewed from below, the silhouette of the top resembles a fish tail. Locals consider this mountain a sacred incarnation of God Shiva. Not reaching just 50 meters to the goal, the British climbers vowed never to return here. After a single unsuccessful attempt to storm the summit, it was forever closed for ascents.
Annapurna is the tenth highest peak in the world and the first eight-thousanders to climb. Unlike Everest and other mountains with a height of more than 8000 m, until 1950 no one even tried to climb Annapurna. And in 1950 the French task was to reach the top of Dhaulagiri. However, from the Gorepani Pass (French Pass) "White Mountain" looked too intimidating, and Maurice Herzog, the leader of the expedition, decided to look for approaches to another eight-thousander - Annapurna. The expedition is considered successful. On June 3, 1950, Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal reached their goal by climbing to the summit from the north. Annapurna surrendered, but at what cost! From the assault camp, the climbers, “lightening up” as much as possible, came out in ordinary non-insulated boots. This was a big mistake. At the top, having taken a photo and putting the camera in his backpack, Maurice dropped his gloves, which were immediately picked up and carried away by the wind. Both climbers lost all of their toes, and the Erzog also lost almost all of his fingers. The expeditionary doctor had to carry out the operation in the field and without anesthesia.
The heroic ascent of the French climbers marked the beginning of the era of the storming of the world's eight-thousanders. Over the next seven years, 11 of the 14 highest peaks fell. Annapurna stood in splendid isolation for another 20 years. And only in 1970, a team of English athletes led by Chris Bonington climbed this giant along the southern wall. And again for the first time. No one had ventured on wall routes in the Himalayas before. This is how the southern base camp appeared, trekking to which is very popular today in Nepal.
Annapurna Base Camp. Annapurna Base Camp. For dedicated password: ABC
If people go to Evevrest in order to touch something from the category of "very-very", then a trip to Annapurna Base Camp cannot be considered an end in itself. The endless world of the Himalayas, the mysticism of Buddhism and the esotericism of Nepal cannot be comprehended in a lifetime. Going to this country for the first time, after reading guidebooks, you usually want to "embrace the immense." The trip to ABC is ideal for exploring the mysterious kingdom. From loggia to loggia, among the fragrant nature, simple trails are laid: no passes, no traverses, the climb is smooth, the highest point is 4100 m.The track can be varied (lengthened), partially combining with other routes, or it can be made as short and interesting as possible. Only from Chomrong the section of the path will be unchanged. And to this settlement you will follow the flight of your imagination: take a pencil in your hands and draw a track of your journey, depending on the time you have.
Peace stupa and lake of harmony
The town of Pokhara is the holy of holies of all trekkers. Most of the popular Nepalese routes start and end here. Half of the tourists visiting this city come here to take a trip to Annapurna. Spend the day here. The beauty of Phewa Lake is worth it. Take a boat to get to the middle of it. In clear water Machpuchre and Annapurna are reflected, village houses are scattered along the steep green banks, dogs barking, on a small island there is a Hindu temple.
On the southern side of the lake, on a picturesque hill, the Buddhist Peace Stupa rises. This symbol of the unity of peoples of different religions and faiths was erected under the leadership of the Japanese monk Nichidatsu Fujii. There are 4 statues of Buddha in the temple, brought from China, Japan, Nepal, Vietnam. More than 80 such stupas have been built around the world.
Climb Mount Sarangkot, from where updrafts carry away colorful paragliding domes in different directions. On the horizon is the ridge of the Himalayan peaks, below is the mirror-like surface of the water, and all around is serenity and complete harmony.
Trekking start
The trip will not be bright and complete without ethnographic excursions. For this, the classic route to ABC is usually combined with the Jomsom Trek, part of which passes through small, bone-deep Nepalese villages. Everything is real here: architecture, people, way of life. In the village of Gandruk, little reminds of the presence of civilization. The houses are built of wild stone. On the roofs there is Himalayan slate, which is mined somewhere nearby. Take a walk through the streets, look into the dwellings. The centuries-old design of the furnishings, the outlandish utensils, the atmosphere - everything is truly exotic.
The start of any Nepalese trekking is the moment when your boot touches the trail, and the thought arises in your head that all around is the most beautiful landscape you have ever seen. The path will begin behind the Fedi village with a "staircase to heaven" - a very steep ascent along stone steps. It will not be superfluous to mention here that the inhabitants of the first villages through which you pass are brahmanas, people of the Chetri caste. You cannot enter their houses without asking permission. You can't even step outside the yard fence.
Next will go the villages of the gurungs. These people are much more friendly and easier to communicate. As, in fact, all Buddhists. Soon the roads will end altogether, and the trails will turn into the only link between the villages and the outside world. Nepalese children use them to go to school, locals carry loads, and tourists head to Annapurna Base Camp. Along the Modi Khola river, climbing higher and higher, we will actually come to its source. The stunning landscapes fuel the idea that it couldn't get any better, but the next day's surprises disprove it. The trail dives down into a gorge, then climbs steeply up the slope, then gets lost in the labyrinths of green terraces with rice fields. From every hill - a panorama of the Himalayan foothills: in a foggy haze, stretching into an endless distance, mountain slopes. You can watch for hours without stopping. The main thing is not to lose track of time from all this beauty.
Nepali "straight" and "traffic jams" on the paths
Never take literally the phrase that comes from the mouth of the Nepalese: "It's not far, 2 kilometers in a straight line." To complete the picture, they will smile affably, but wave their hand somewhere towards the horizon. This will mean that lunch is not coming soon. Another hour and a half over rough terrain with loss and climb. The concept of "directly" does not exist in these places. You're just in Nepal. Be aware that they go down to the bottom of the gorge only to cross the river, and then inexorably up again.
A little about the crossings. The path is replete with suspension bridges and bridges. Crossing these structures is an adventure. They swing over mountain streams at such a height that it will take your breath away. Bridges are used not only by people, but also by cattle. Some of them were built specifically to reduce the number of "traffic jams" on narrow paths. (If you meet a donkey or a yak, hung with luggage, never stay on the edge of the path. These hard workers do not feel the size and can push you down with a light movement of their powerful body.)
Thermal waters
Thermal springs are a nice bonus of the track. In the village of Ginu, on the banks of the river, there are comfortable swimming pools. There are a lot of tourists here during the high season, so it is better to relax in the waters of the spring after sunset. With a flashlight we go down to the river and under the starry sky, in a romantic setting, we indulge in complete bliss. After hot procedures, you should definitely plunge into the cold river. Firstly, it is in Russian, and secondly, it is good for health. And again the "stairway to heaven" right behind Gina Danda. The four hundred meter rise is almost vertical. Throwing back his head and peering into the distance for a long time, it is impossible to see where the stone steps end.
Stone steps -uncountable -infinite amount.
On the way to Chomrong, check out Taglung, a hilltop spot with genuine mountain tea shops. All paths leading to ABC converge in Chomrong. This is the local "district center". A fairly prosperous Gurung village. The village has a large selection of guesthouses, local pizza is famous throughout the Himalayas, so tourists calculate the route so that they can stay here for the night. Still, it must be said separately that most of the trails on the way to Machapuchre Base Camp (the route to ABC passes through Machapuchhare Base Camp) are giant stairs lined with stones with an uncountable number of steps. In general, uncountable is a very specific figure in the local sense. She describes almost everything that is in Nepal: the number of Gods (there are 3 million of them or something like that), festivals, temples, stupas, places of power, the number of monkeys near the temples, the number of yaks, etc. Behind Chomrong, there will be thousands of stone steps. Down - joyfully and merrily, up - with the hope that then down again.
Going on trekking in Nepal, carefully read the descriptions or interrogate the guides. Knowing that the steps are finite will greatly empower you.
Country of mountains, forests and waterfalls.
The route passes through the territory national park Annapurna, established in 1986. A rare opportunity to visit all of them in 5-6 days natural areas altitudinal zonality. It is hard to understand how in such a small country, whose territory is almost completely occupied by mountains, there can be tropics, subtropics, alpine meadows, and glaciers. The park is home to the world's largest rhododendron forest. It is the forest. In the Caucasus, rhododendron is a shrub. And in tropical climates, it grows into rugged wilderness. In spring, the mountain slopes are buried in purple and pink colors. Leaving far below the rice fields of the foothills, through thickets of bamboo and banana palms, the trail will lead us to the valley of the subtropical jungle. The world is full of exotic flowers, bright birds, magic smells and sounds. Above the head are arcades of vines, the trees are entwined with orchids, and ferns underfoot. Among the dense branches, curious and impudent faces of the little Langur monkeys flicker. Setting off in the morning on the road, it seems that the most beautiful was yesterday, and today only a slight hangover from what he saw. But the closer to ABC, the more everything around looks like a picture from Japanese watercolors: the rocks are covered with red rhododendrons, and among the rocks there are waterfalls. Big, smaller, very small. They break down in a noisy stream, streaming down the slope with sparkling threads, they simply murmur along the washed hollows with many streams. Consciousness is unable to overcome so many impressions. The recent jungle and monkeys seem far in the past, but you have been admiring the splashes of water sparkling in the sun for an hour.
Behind the village of Himalaya, the forest will end. A deep gorge with dense jungle and bamboo thickets separating Machapuchre and Annapurna will be replaced by a gentle valley between steep slopes. In the village of Doban, be sure to ask the locals to show you the naturally-formed Buddha figure on the rock. People see what they want, or what they believe in, so this miracle does not open to the tourist's eye. This is the last big village before the finish line. After Doban, look into the Hinku cave. Rather, it is a grotto. Once upon a time there lived a holy elder. They say that the energy of the place is off scale. On the way to Machapuchre Base Camp (MBC), the trail will cross water streams, pass through traces of avalanche flows and landslides. MBC are several one-story buildings, "assault camp" before the final goal of the campaign. From here you will discover: Khinchuli (6441 m.), Annapurna I (8091 m.), Annapurna III (7555 m.), Gangapurna (7454 m.), Machapuchhre (6997 m.).
"Shrine of the Goddess"
Early in the morning, when it is still dark, a luminous snake from flashlights will mark the path to ABC. Annapurna Base Camp is a flat area bordered by low cliffs, and in front is a huge circus. Around 360o - the most beautiful mountain panorama on the planet: Machapuchhre (6993 m.), Mardi Himal (553 m.), Tent Peak (5500 m.), Hiun Chuli (6441 m.), Rippled Peak (6390 m.), Bharha Chuli (7647 m.), Rock Noir (7485 m.), Tare Kang (7069 m.), Singu Chuli (6501 m.), Gangapurna (7454 m.), Gandarba Chuli (6248 m.), Annapurna Peaks. Keeping our cameras ready, we will wait for the moment when dawn will decorate the tops of the mountains. Sun streams will pour from the sky, emphasizing the details of the relief, the contrast of snowy slopes, rocky outcrops and a bottomless blue sky. The circus will sparkle with all the colors, and the Sanctuary of the "Goddess of Fertility" will open before us. And somewhere high near the peaks the wind raises snow "flags". The crash of avalanches is heard. This magical mystery can be watched endlessly. The greatness of the wild is disarming. Her beauty penetrates into the very heart. Sanctuary Trek (Annapurna Sanctuary) or Base Camp Trek (Trek to the Base Camp of Annapurna) ends here, and the climbers from here just start their route. A little higher than the base camp there is a monument to the famous climber Anatoly Bukreev, who died in an avalanche on the slopes of this mountain. It is made in the form of a Buddhist chorten. The locals call it “Russian Stupa”. A monument was erected by Anatoly's friend Linda Wylie. On the plate are the words once said by Bukreev: "The mountains are not a stadium where I satisfy my ambitions, they are temples where I profess my religion."
In other words, it is impossible to convey the beauty, purity and grandeur of this place.
Natalya Dorozhkina, The Freedom Wind Travel Club.
