Arriving in Kathmandu for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek sets the stage for a classic Himalayan journey. The bustling capital welcomes trekkers with a mix of ancient heritage and modern energy.

On the first day, we are going to fly in to Pokhara and then drive for about 1 hour to Nayapul which is the starting point of our trek. Then we are going to trek for 4 to 5 hours from Nayapul to reach Ghandruk. A village in the Modi Khola Valley of Nepal’s Annapurna region, Ghandruk offers panoramas of the surrounding Annapurna massif, including good views of Annapurna I, the world’s tenth-highest mountain. And yet, the village only stands at around 2,000 m (6,562 ft), meaning you can look out over snow-drenched Himalaya peaks without needing to trek at altitude. Visiting Ghandruk also gives you a snapshot of everyday local life in Nepal’s mountains, especially that of the Gurung people.

After spending our first night in Ghandruk village while immersing ourselves in their culture, we will start day 2 by trekking to Chomrong. Chomrong is a small village located inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. It’s located on the Annapurna Base Camp trekking route making it a popular stop for trekkers in the region. Unlike other villages along this route, Chomrong existed before tourism making it a unique village to experience the local culture. Chomrong itself is a small settlement, which is an old off shoot of Ghandruk and is also inhabited by Gurung people. There is a Buddhist stupa at the bottom of the village.

After the sun rises, you will have morning rituals and breakfast to start the day’s trek to Bamboo. Bamboo Village is a picturesque settlement situated along the Annapurna Base Camp trail in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It serves as a popular stopover for trekkers on their way to Annapurna Base Camp, offering a tranquil and scenic environment amidst the Himalayan landscape. Bamboo Village is located at an elevation of approximately 2,310 meters (7,580 feet) above sea level. The village is renowned for its lush greenery and serene ambiance. It is surrounded by dense forests of bamboo, which lend the village its name. The towering bamboo groves create a unique atmosphere, providing shade and a soothing environment for trekkers..

Having a wonderful stay at Bamboo village, upon completing morning rituals start trek towards Deurali village. Deurali village is a small administrative locality in Kaski District of central-north Nepal. It had the total population of 2882 as per the census of 1991 and it is basically present along the Trek of Annapurna Sanctuary. Deurali village is basically a locality on trekking trail and the visitors generally make a little stop here for acclimatization. In addition, the town offers panoramic scenery of the mountains and of the water channels. Most of the area is lush green.

Deurali to Annapurna base camp distance is 7.7 kilometers/4.7 miles. Trail ascends gradually and takes 4 to 5 hours to reach Annapurna base camp by foot. The Annapurna Base Camp is a small cluster of lodges opposite the Annapurna glacier. As you look up from the edge of the glacier, you come face to face with the Annapurna massif. Annapurna I, III and South, Gangapurna, Gandharvachuli and Machapuchare are all there to meet your gaze when your eyes rest upon them.

Following the Modi Khola and rhododendron forests, it takes around 7 hours to reach Bamboo. It’s a long but not too hard trail. Also, you might want to wake up extra early in order to watch the sun rising over the majestic Annapurna Range.

After trekking back to Bamboo village and spending a night there, we are going to trek to Jhinu Danda on day 7. Jhinodanda (also Jhinu Danda), at 1,760 meters (5,774 feet), is a hidden gem that offers trekkers a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural immersion in the Annapurna Sanctuary. This picturesque village in the Kaski district is known for its hot springs, serene landscapes, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The village is perched on a hillside overlooking the Modi Khola River and offers panoramic views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and nearby snow-capped peaks.

After a relaxing day of immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Jhinu Danda, we will trek back to Nayapul, the starting point of our trek.

After completing our trek to Annapurna Base Camp, we will have a rest day in Pokhara to rejuvenate ourselves. Pokhara is a metropolitan city located in central Nepal, which serves as the capital of Gandaki Province and is declared as the tourism capital of Nepal. It is the second most populous city of the nation after Kathmandu. Pokhara’s tranquil beauty has been the subject of inspiration for many travel writers. Its pristine air, spectacular backdrop of snowy peaks, blue lakes and surrounding greenery make it ‘the jewel in the Himalaya’, a place of remarkable natural disposition. With the magnificent Annapurna range forming the backdrop and the serenity of the cluster of nine lakes with three major ones - Phewa, Rupa and Begnas. Pokhara is a great destination for a weekend getaway as well as a long relaxing holiday.

On the last day, we are going to fly back to Kathmandu. As you leave this special area of Nepal, wave goodbye to the massive, majestic, and magical Machhapucchre mountain and The Annapurna Mountain ranges.