The Annapurna Sanctuary
Kathmandu, Nepal 11 nights from £1,379

The Annapurna Sanctuary

Trek into the heart of the Himalayas to reach Annapurna Base Camp, encircled by snow-draped peaks, glacial valleys, and unforgettable sunrises from Poon Hill.

  • 9 days trekking

Highlights

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Traverse varied Himalayan terrain to the amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary, circled by colossal peaks soaring over 7,000m.

Immersive cultural journey

Immersive cultural journey

Follow ancient routes connecting Gurung and Magar villages, and experience the hospitality and vibrancy of Nepalese mountain life.

Comfortable teahouse stays

Comfortable teahouse stays

Relax in traditional mountain teahouses after each trek, savouring hearty meals, genuine hospitality, and picturesque views.

Scenic forest trails

Scenic forest trails

Fly between Kathmandu and Pokhara, traversing lush rhododendron forests, rivers, and suspension bridges on this dynamic trek.

Iconic Poon Hill sunrise

Iconic Poon Hill sunrise

Hike before dawn to witness dazzling sunrise vistas over Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and the Annapurna range.

Overview

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek journeys into the Himalayas, starting with the climb to Poon Hill for panoramic views, then winding through forests and valleys before opening into the Annapurna Sanctuary amphitheatre.

Each day reveals new vistas and encounters—from the welcome of hillside communities to the exhilaration of crossing soaring suspension bridges as the scenery evolves with elevation.

Approaching Annapurna Base Camp feels otherworldly, encircled by snow-shrouded peaks and soaring glacial walls. For those seeking a manageable Himalayan test that fuses comfort, culture, and adventure, this 12-day trek is ideal.

  • Mountain
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Forest
  • Average fitness
  • Solo
  • Couples

Degree of difficulty

  • Moderate – 6–8 hours trekking per day.
  • Max altitude: 4,130m.
  • Gradual ascent and descent; suitable for fit trekkers.

Accommodation

  • 4-star hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Teahouse lodges during trek – twin rooms, shared bathrooms.
  • Occasional en-suite availability; limited heating.

Food & drink

  • Meals not included on trek; budget £30–35/day.
  • Wide range of dishes from Dal Bhat to pasta and yak steak.
  • Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at some teahouses (extra cost).

Visas & vaccinations

  • Tourist visa required (available online or on arrival).
  • Recommended vaccinations: Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Diphtheria.

Best time to go

  • March–May and September–December for stable weather and clear views.

Season

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

  • Hill
  • Mountain
  • Forest
  • Minibus
  • Flight

12-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1 | Arrive in Kathmandu

    Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Meet your guide and group for a detailed trek briefing before exploring the city’s vibrant streets.

  • Day 2 | Fly to Pokhara, drive to Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga

    Take a short scenic flight to Pokhara, then drive to Nayapul and begin your trek through lush green valleys to Tikhedhunga.

  • Days 3–4 | Trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill sunrise

    Climb through rhododendron forests and traditional villages to Ghorepani. The next morning, ascend Poon Hill for a spectacular Himalayan sunrise before trekking on to Tadapani.

  • Days 5–6 | Enter the Sanctuary trail via Chomrong and Bamboo

    Descend to cross the Kimrong Khola before climbing to Chomrong. Continue through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests to reach the village of Bamboo, surrounded by high ridges.

  • Days 7–8 | Reach Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre

    Ascend through alpine terrain to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, then venture into the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary. Savour sweeping views at Base Camp before descending to Himalaya.

  • Days 9–10 | Descend through Chomrong to Pokhara

    Retrace your route through sculpted hillsides and Gurung villages to Chomrong, then onward to Nayapul before driving back to Pokhara for a well-deserved lakeside rest.

  • Day 11 | Fly to Kathmandu

    Fly back to the capital and enjoy free time for sightseeing or shopping in the lively Thamel district.

  • Day 12 | Departure

    After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight or onward journey.

  • Accommodation
  • Guides
  • Transfers

Included

  • Hotel stays before and after the trek
  • Airport transfers
  • Domestic flights (Pokhara–Kathmandu)
  • Annapurna Conservation and TIMS fees
  • Fully supported trek with a licensed guide
  • Drinking water during the trek
  • Teahouse accommodation (room only)
  • Emergency oxygen and first aid kit

Not Included

  • International flights and visas
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Meals and drinks on trek
  • Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast)
  • Travel insurance and personal equipment

  • Age 18 & over
  • Between 2-10 in group
  • Private group option
  • ABTA
  • ATOL

Costs

Deposit

£275.80

Price per person (inc deposit)

£1379.00

  • Transfers

Meeting point

Tribhuvan International Airport
Ring Rd
काठमाडौँ
Kathmandu
44600
Nepal

Getting to Kathmandu

  • Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport (KTM) for transfer to your hotel. Begin the trek with a domestic flight to Pokhara, then drive to Nayapul. 
  • All in-country transport, flights, and transfers are included. 
  • Return flights to Kathmandu conclude your trip before onward departure.

Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot based on 1,090 reviews.

Our experience on Annapurna sanctuary trek was perfect. Flexibility, professionalism, nothing that could be done better. The main highlight -the guides were the best ones by far from what we have seen during the trek with other groups. Radu

Very well organised trek thank you! Professional, experienced, and importantly fun guides! Jayden H

This was made extra special by all the staff, each and everyone was so friendly, helpful and I would do this trip again in a heartbeat... Thank you for best adventure! Nohlene F

Great and memorable experience. Carmen Louise den H

The guides were fantastic and can’t fault anything. Thank you. We will book again on one of your other trips. Sangeeta

  • Carbon offset
  • Plastic bottle free

This trip takes responsibility seriously and ‘goes the extra mile’ to ensure that your presence in this country is entirely positive.

Central to this

  • Caring for the crew
  • Caring for the local environment
  • Caring for the local communities

All guides and partners are hand picked to ensure that every aspect of your trip operates to the highest standard and reflect the strong values, ethics and joy of travel.

This commitment to Responsible Travel is mutually beneficial without compromising the countries and communities touched or the depth and uniqueness of your adventure.

Key values of this trip

  • Leave nothing behind
  • We’re the visitors, let’s be respectful at all times
  • Deliver a breathtaking experience
  • Let’s benefit local communities and environments

Let’s help keep these wonderful places precious.

Porters and crew

All crew are paid proper wages and are treated with respect and dignity. This trip with IMEC, IPPG and KPAP, all not-for-profit organisations that focus on improving the working conditions of porters.

Friends of Conservation

Travellers are given the opportunity to mitigate some of the environmental impacts of flying by supporting community and conservation initiatives.

Travellers Against Plastic

This trip is a proud supporter of the Leave No Trace and Travellers Against Plastic campaigns, which help educate travellers on the impact of travel and provide practical guidance for enjoying the outdoors responsibly.

How to book

To find out more or book, please provide your details here.

4 steps to wellbeing
Sleep well

A good night's sleep is an essential foundation for a healthy lifestyle, effective training and weight control.

Train slow

Low-intensity training is easier for you, reduces the risk of injury and helps builds an efficient aerobic system.

Eat natural

Cut out sugar & junk food, reduce carbs, eat natural foods and train your body to burn fat for fuel.

Get outdoors

Fresh air, natural light and reconnecting with nature all help to improve mental and physical wellbeing.