An exploration into the very soul of the towering peaks of Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is an iconic adventure that takes you to the foothills of some of the highest peaks in the world.
Going across beautiful and hospitable villages, breathtaking panoramas, and various landscapes, this trek encompasses several stops and viewpoints before you reach the ultimate destination at the Annapurna Base Camp.
Now the question is where should you start your exploration along the approximately 110 kilometers (about 68.35 miles) long ABC trek? Amidst the many stops dotting the trail of the ABC trek, there are some of the stops which are more popular and enchanting.
A knowledge of these stops can make your experience of the ABC trek even more enhanced and elaborate. Therefore, in this blog we have compiled a few of the significant stops along the distance of the ABC trek and painted a vivid picture of what each of these locations has to offer.
Pokhara
A quintessential stop for almost all the treks situated in the Annapurna region, Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region. Located in the western Nepal, the city is one of the most touristic places in the country.
The city features a pleasant climate and serene atmosphere along with immense natural beauty in the form of lakes, caves, and waterfalls. Also known as the ‘city of lakes’, the city is the most elaborate highlight of the ABC trek given the uncountable things to do in Pokhara.
Irrespective of whether you are planning to embark on the trek or returning from the tiring trek, the city has something for all kinds of tourists.
From boating in Phewa lake to witnessing the mystery of Davis falls, from relaxing in the Begnas lake to catching the sunrise in Sarangkot, the city is a haven for nature lovers.
For those looking to get more of a cultural and spiritual experience, the shrines like Tal Barahi temple, Bindhyabasini Temple, World Peace Pagoda, etc. gives you ample opportunities to closely witness the Hindu and well as Buddhist traditions.
If you are an adventure seeker, Pokhara is the right place for you as it is often hailed as the adventure capital of Nepal. This city features uncountable adventure activities like ziplining, bungee jumping, ultralight flight, hiking, paragliding, white water rafting, and more.
Pokhara is also the only city in Nepal that has hot air balloon services. Soaring above the clouds in this beautiful city, you can get majestic views of the lakes, the snowcapped peaks, as well as the beautiful landscapes of Pokhara.
A playground for party animals, the city completely transforms into a nocturnal playground as the sun dips below the horizon with cultural songs and dances, pubs, and DJ’s unfolding a different facet of Pokhara.
Ulleri
Located at an altitude of 2,020 meters (6,627 feet), Ulleri is a picturesque village located on the ABC trail. This village is known for its iconic stone stairs and the rich Magar culture.
This charming village presents a unique challenge on the Annapurna Base Camp trek with its 3000 steps staircase which is one of the factors symbolizing the ABC trek’s challenges amidst the rewards.
An important stop along the trek, this village also features numerous teahouses indulging you in the warmth of the hospitality of the locals and the mouth-watering Nepali cuisine.
Ulleri also unfolds many cultural insights amidst the trekkers while presenting the true allure of the self-sustaining lifestyle in the mountains.
Poon Hill
Among many wonders along the ABC trek, Poon Hill is arguably one of the most celebrated vantage points. This iconic viewpoint is hailed as one of the best sunrise viewing places in Nepal.
Situated at a 1.5 km (0.931 miles) distance from Ghorepani, Poon Hill offers you a panoramic spectacle of the first rays of sun falling on the spectacular Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain range accompanied by the iconic Fishtail Mountain.
The hike to Poon Hill is a ritual for almost everyone on the ABC trek to witness the white canvas of the mountains being painted with the vibrant hues of golden light from the sun accompanied by red and orange.
To reach Poon Hill, trekkers start early before dawn and hike their way through the rhododendron forests from Ghorepani.
Along with the magnificent view, the detour to this hill station etched at the altitude of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet) also acts as an in-built acclimatization hike preparing the trekkers for the Annapurna Base Camp.
This stop is the highlight of the ABC trek and provides the very essence of trekking in the Annapurna region as it is a perfect combination of the physical challenge, rewarding view, and the splendor of nature.
For people wanting to go on a smaller trek, Poon Hill Trek features a different trekking route in itself known as the Ghorepani – Poon Hill trek which can be covered within a span of 4-5 days.
Chhomrong
Chhomrong is a popular night stopover point for the trekkers embarking on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The village located at an elevation of 2,140 meters (7,021 feet), provides spectacular views of the charming mountain ranges surrounding the area.
Situated at a suitable position to offer breathtaking views, Chhomrong is not just a viewpoint but also a vibrant showcase of life in Himalayas. It features typical homes made up of stones and slate roofs along the corners of the hills.
One of the largest Gurung villages in the area, Chhomrong gives the trekkers a glimpse of the beautiful Gurung culture. Trekkers can experience firsthand the distinct culture, traditional lifestyle, and the warm hospitality for which the Gurungs are known.
It features many teahouses and lodges showcasing Nepalese hospitality along with the mouthwatering Nepali cuisine that provides you the strength required to continue the adventures of trekking ahead.
Along with all these, Chhomrong is also the last stop along the trek where the trekkers can get their hands on gear and equipment required for the trek. So, if you are underprepared, make sure to equip yourself at Chhomrong.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp
While climbing the iconic Mount Machhapuchhre, aka Fishtail Mountain, is prohibited by the Government of Nepal, it doesn’t stop the trekkers from reaching at the foot of this virgin mountain. It is called so because it has never been climbed as it is considered a sacred peak by the locals.
Located at an elevation of 3,700 meters (12,139), this stop is one of the highlights of the ABC trek. The MBC provides you with intimate views of the uniquely shaped mountain and the surrounding Gangapurna, Annapurna range, and reveals a unique southern facet of Annapurna I.
To reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp, trekkers traverse through beautiful landscapes adorned with rhododendrons and lush forests making the experience even more rewarding.
As you reach the MBC, a feeling of serenity hits you given the elevation that takes you closer to the Himalayas. The base camp also can be considered as the gateway to enter the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Also, as the mountain is closely associated with Hindu deity Lord Shiva, the surrounding here is pretty much unharmed and pristine, adding to the beauty. Therefore, the trekkers are also expected to respect the sanctity of the peak and enjoy it from a distance.
The religious significance and the natural beauty of the Machhapuchhre Base Camp combined with the adventure makes the MBC a beautiful destination in itself.
Annapurna Base Camp
The Annapurna Base Camp is the climaxing point of the ABC trek and naturally is the most highlighted point of interest throughout the trek. Enveloped in a ring of eleven of Nepal’s towering Himalayas, this base camp lies in the Annapurna Sanctuary.
This zenith of the ABC trek is situated at an elevation of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) and provides heavenly views of snowcapped peaks surrounding the trekkers from all sides.
As you conquer the journey across the forests, stone stairs, steep ascents and descents, the reward at the Annapurna Base Camp is heavenly and presents the Himalayas in its most majestic form.
The stunning silhouettes of peaks like Machhapuchhre, Hiuchuli, Tharpu Chuli, Singu Chuli, and the entire Annapurna range against the soaring sky greets you as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sanctuary with the feeling of achievement.
The teahouses in the region allow you for a night stay giving you the opportunity to wake up to the stunning world-class vista after you have indulged yourself with the warm local hospitality. Watching the sunrise from this point is an experience as mesmerizing as possible.
The ABC is the heart of the entire trek and reflects not only the fragility and pristineness of nature, but also reflects over the resilience and triumph of countless trekkers who have conquered it.
Jhinu Danda
The final significant stop at the remarkable ABC trek, Jhinu Danda is a small village in the Annapurna region which is renowned for its natural hot springs.
After your exhilarating yet tiring trek, this stop provides you with the much-needed relaxation and rejuvenation as you unwind in the springs, being surrounded by nature all around with the backdrop of majestic Himalayas and the burble of the river.
The mineral rich water of these thermal springs is thought to have healing properties providing comfort to your tired and sore muscles from the demanding trek.
To reach the hot springs, the trekkers need to descend from the main village for a short time and as they reach the serene bank of the Modi Khola, there lies the springs.
Besides this therapeutic and tranquil experience, Jhinu Danda also provides an insight into the local culture featuring teahouses making it available for a stopover as well.
Additional brief stops that might interest you
Tadapani
A resting point on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Tadapani can also act as a serene stopover along the trail as it features breathtaking panoramas of the mountains, especially during dawn.
It also crosses lush forests of rhododendron which add to the scenic beauty of the trail during the blooming season. Thanks to the beautiful forests, Tadapani inhabits lots of local flora and fauna and can also be the ideal stop for birdwatchers.
Bamboo
Another bonus stop on your adventurous ABC trek is Bamboo. Featuring thickets of bamboo throughout the dense forest, it provides a rather contrasting experience to the open mountains as it secludes you inside the cold and shaded embrace of nature in the unique bamboo ecosystem.
The warm experience of staying at the welcoming teahouses in bamboo is sure to exemplify your trekking experience along the Annapurna Base Camp.
