ave you ever wondered what it feels like to stand at the bottom of a natural amphitheater surrounded by 8,000-meter giants? The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek delivers exactly that, a glacial bowl ringed by some of the world’s highest peaks. The 9-day version strikes a balance, long enough to include the famous Poon Hill sunrise yet short enough for trekkers with two weeks of vacation time.
In this blog, we cover the complete Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 9 days itinerary, including altitude profiles, seasonal weather patterns, permit requirements, difficulty levels, cost breakdowns, and practical logistics for reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. Whether you are planning your first Himalayan trek or comparing routes, this guide gives you everything needed to decide if this trek fits your goals.
What Is the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 9 Days?
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek 9 days is a teahouse trek that takes you into a high-altitude glacial basin surrounded by Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. The route reaches a maximum altitude of 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp. You walk through subtropical rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages, and the deep Modi Khola river gorge before the valley opens into the snow-ringed sanctuary. The trek is also called the ABC Trek.
This particular 9-day itinerary includes Poon Hill, which adds a pre-dawn hike to one of Nepal’s most famous sunrise viewpoints. The difficulty is moderate, meaning fit beginners who prepare adequately can complete the trek without technical climbing experience. Most trekking days involve 5 to 7 hours of walking, with the Poon Hill morning adding an extra 2-hour round trip.
Trip Detail
Information
Duration
8 Nights/9 Days
Region
Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal
Maximum Elevation
4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp
Difficulty
Moderate
Trek Style
Teahouse lodges with meals available
Why Trek the Annapurna Sanctuary in 9 Days?
The 9-day version is popular among first-time Himalayan trekkers because it combines cultural immersion, diverse landscapes, and world-class mountain scenery without feeling rushed. The combination of Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp in one itinerary gives you two distinct highlights. You get the sunrise panorama from Poon Hill early in the trek, then the glacial sanctuary experience at the end.
The route also allows proper acclimatization time, which reduces altitude sickness risk. Unlike shorter 7-day versions that skip Poon Hill or longer 12-day routes that add extra rest days, the 9-day itinerary fits most vacation schedules while still including the key experiences. The trek passes through Gurung villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, where you see traditional mountain life, and ends with a soak in Jhinu Danda hot springs.
What Are the Highlights of the ABC 9 Day Trek?
The highlights of the ABC 9 day trek include Poon Hill sunrise, Annapurna Base Camp, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Gurung village culture, Jhinu Danda hot springs, and diverse landscapes. Each highlight offers something different, from mountain views to cultural experiences to natural relaxation.
Poon Hill Sunrise: A pre-dawn hike rewards you with 360-degree views over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and dozens of surrounding peaks
Annapurna Base Camp: Standing inside the glacial sanctuary surrounded by 8,000m peaks is the emotional climax of the trek
Machhapuchhre Base Camp: The sacred Fishtail peak appears impossibly close from this camp at 3,700m
Gurung Village Culture: Stone villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong offer glimpses into traditional mountain life
Jhinu Danda Hot Springs: Natural thermal pools beside the Modi Khola river provide post-trek recovery
Diverse Landscapes: The trail transitions from rhododendron forests to bamboo groves to alpine terrain within days
Where Does the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Start and Finish?
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek starts in Pokhara, Nepal’s lakeside adventure hub, with a scenic drive to the Nayapul trailhead. From Nayapul, the trail follows a circular pattern through Ghorepani and Poon Hill before descending to Tadapani and continuing to Chhomrong, the gateway village to the sanctuary. The trek finishes back in Pokhara after a drive from Jhinu Danda or Siwai.
After Chhomrong, the path becomes a there-and-back route into the sanctuary itself. You ascend through increasingly dramatic terrain to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and finally Annapurna Base Camp. The descent retraces part of the route before branching to Jhinu Danda, where the hot springs await, then returns to Pokhara by vehicle. The total trekking distance covers approximately 115 kilometers round trip.
How Long Does the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Take?
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek takes 9 days total, including 7 days of trekking and 2 days with partial driving. Most trekking days involve 5 to 7 hours of walking, with the Poon Hill morning adding an extra 2-hour round trip. The exact duration depends on your pace and the specific teahouses chosen each night.
Segment
Type
Details
Pokhara to Nayapul
Drive
1.5 to 2 hours by vehicle
Nayapul to ABC (round trip)
Trek
7 trekking days
Jhinu to Pokhara
Drive
2 to 3 hours by vehicle
The driving segments are scenic in their own right, following river valleys and passing through small Nepali towns. Some trekkers add an extra day in Pokhara before or after the trek to explore the lakeside area.
How Difficult Is the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek difficulty is moderate, which means no technical climbing or specialized mountaineering skills are required. However, the trail demands cardiovascular fitness for sustained uphill sections and strong legs for the countless stone steps that define Nepali trekking trails. Locals sometimes joke about “Nepali flat,” which refers to trails that are never actually flat.
The elevation gain is gradual overall, with steeper sections approaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. The maximum altitude of 4,130m at ABC is high enough to cause altitude sickness if you ascend too quickly, but the 9-day itinerary includes proper acclimatization time. Most fit beginners who train for 6 to 8 weeks before departure complete the trek without major issues.
Location
Elevation
Nayapul (trailhead)
1,070m
Ghorepani
2,860m
Poon Hill
3,210m
Chhomrong
2,170m
Machhapuchhre Base Camp
3,700m
Annapurna Base Camp
4,130m
How Should I Train for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
You should train for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek by building cardiovascular endurance and leg strength over 6 to 8 weeks before departure. The goal is preparing your body for 5 to 7 hour trekking days with a loaded daypack. A structured training plan makes a significant difference in how much you enjoy the trek versus simply surviving it.
Focus on activities that mimic the demands of the trail. Regular hiking, stair climbing, or uphill walking with a loaded daypack builds the endurance needed for long trekking days. Leg strength exercises targeting quads and calves help absorb the impact of descending thousands of stone steps. Complete progressively longer practice hikes on varied terrain, ideally with the boots and pack you plan to use. No specific pre-trek altitude training is required, but arriving in Nepal well-rested helps your body adjust.
When Is the Best Season to Trek the Annapurna Sanctuary?
The best season to trek the Annapurna Sanctuary is autumn (September to November) or spring (March to May). Autumn brings the clearest skies and most stable weather of the year, while spring offers rhododendron blooms and warming temperatures. Nepal has four distinct trekking seasons, and you can learn more about best-time-for-annapurna-base-camp to plan your trip accordingly.
Spring Season (March to May)
Rhododendron blooms transform the lower forests into corridors of red, pink, and white during spring. Temperatures are warming, making the lower sections comfortable and the higher camps manageable. Afternoon clouds often roll in, which can obscure views but creates dramatic lighting. Spring is the second most popular season after autumn, so teahouses are busy but not overcrowded.
Autumn Season (September to November)
Post-monsoon autumn brings the clearest skies and most stable weather of the year. The trails are dry, mountain visibility is excellent, and temperatures are comfortable at most elevations. Teahouses fill up quickly during peak season, so booking through an operator helps secure accommodations. October is the busiest month on the trail.
Winter Season (December to February)
Cold temperatures dominate, especially at higher elevations where nights can drop well below freezing. Snow is possible above Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and some teahouses close for the season. However, fewer trekkers mean quieter trails. Winter trekking requires warmer gear and more flexibility in case weather forces route changes.
Monsoon Season (June to August)
Heavy rainfall makes monsoon the least popular season for the ABC trek. Leeches appear on lower trails, and mountain views are often obscured by clouds. The landscapes are lush and green, which appeals to some trekkers, but most prefer to avoid the challenges of wet trails. Landslides can occasionally block roads or trails during heavy rain.
What Permits Are Required for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
Two permits are required for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, and both are checked at multiple points along the trail. The ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) are mandatory for all trekkers. Your trekking operator typically arranges both permits before departure.
The ACAP entry fee supports conservation area management, trail maintenance, and local community projects. The TIMS Card registration system tracks trekkers for safety purposes and helps coordinate search and rescue if needed. Both permits require passport photos and copies of your passport. Checkpoints along the trail verify permits, so keep them accessible throughout the trek.
What Are Teahouses Like on the ABC Trail?
Teahouses on the ABC trail are family-run mountain lodges offering basic twin rooms with shared bathrooms. The rooms are simple but comfortable, with beds, mattresses, and blankets provided. Private rooms are standard, though during peak season you might share with another trekker if lodges fill up.
Food typically includes dal bhat (the Nepali staple of rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, pasta, and limited menu items that become more restricted at higher elevations. Prices increase with altitude, reflecting the cost of portering supplies up the mountain. Most teahouses have a communal dining area with a wood stove where trekkers gather in the evenings. Hot showers and device charging cost extra at most lodges.
What Should I Pack for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
You should pack layered clothing, broken-in trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag, and essential gear for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. The layering system is essential because temperatures vary dramatically between sunny afternoons at lower elevations and freezing mornings at base camp. For a complete breakdown of everything you need, check out our detailed guide on what-to-pack-for-abc-trek before you depart.
Clothing:
Moisture-wicking base layers (avoid cotton)
Insulating fleece or down jacket
Waterproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
Comfortable trekking pants
Warm hat and sun hat
Gloves and buff/neck gaiter
Footwear:
Broken-in trekking boots with ankle support
Camp sandals or lightweight shoes for teahouses
Moisture-wicking socks (multiple pairs)
Gear:
Daypack for daily essentials
Trekking poles (highly recommended for the stone steps)
Headlamp with spare batteries
Sunglasses with UV protection
Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
How Can I Prevent Altitude Sickness on the ABC Trek?
You can prevent altitude sickness on the ABC trek by ascending gradually, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and communicating symptoms to your guide. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) occurs when the body struggles to adjust to decreased oxygen at higher elevations. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness.
The 9-day itinerary allows proper acclimatization time, which is the primary prevention method. Drinking plenty of water throughout each day helps the body adjust to altitude. Avoid alcohol, especially at higher elevations where dehydration compounds altitude effects. Inform your guide immediately if feeling unwell, as early intervention prevents serious complications. The only reliable cure for serious AMS is descending to lower elevation. Trekkers wanting an extra rest day at base camp may prefer a more gradual pace.
Do I Need Travel Insurance for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek?
Yes, you need travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation for the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. Policies typically cover elevations up to at least 4,500m to account for the maximum altitude plus a safety margin. Keep policy details accessible during the trek, either as a physical copy or saved offline on your phone.
Emergency helicopter evacuation from high altitude can cost thousands of dollars without insurance. Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover trekking above 3,000m, so verify your policy includes high-altitude coverage. Some recommended providers for trekking insurance include World Nomads, Global Rescue, and IMG. Read the policy carefully to understand what is covered and what documentation is required for claims.
Book the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek With Wilder Way Trekking
Duration: 8 Nights/9 Days Region: Annapurna, Nepal
Discounts are based on your group size. We do not add anyone to your group.
No. of Persons
Price per Person
1 Pax
US$ 750
2 - 4 Pax
US$ 690
5 - 8 Pax
US$ 650
9 - 15 Pax
US$ 630
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Included and Excluded
Both way transport - Kathmandu and Pokhara by tourist bus
Transport from Pokhara to Dhampus (trek start) and Ghandruk Phedi (trek end) to Pokhara.
A night of accommodation (room with attached bathroom) with breakfast at Hotel in Pokhara
Accommodation: Three nights room with attached bathroom at Dhampus, Landruk, and Jhinu Danda. Four nights standard accommodation at Himalaya, Annapurna Base Camp, and Bamboo (twin Sharing rooms). Total seven nights
All standard meals: breakfast in Pokhara hotel, all standard meals (9 Lunches, 8 Dinners, and 9 Breakfasts) during the trek
Nepal government licensed and experienced Wilder Way Trekking trek leader (guide), an assistant trekking guide for a group of more than 11. A porter for every two trekkers. Per trekker luggage weight limit is 9 kg.
Coverage of guides and porters meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
All government, local taxes, and official expenses
Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
Souvenir - a company's T-shirt & cap
Wilder Way Trekking trek appreciation certificate
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the end of the trek
International flight airfare
Nepal entry visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport
Excess luggage charges (Limit is 9 kg per person)
All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the trek
Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
Extra night accommodations and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek
Personal expenses such as shopping, snacks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, hot ( tea/coffee), cold and alcoholic drinks, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc
Personal clothing and gear.
Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude heli-rescue and evacuation (compulsory)
Tips for guide and porters
Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances beyond our control such as bad weather conditions, illness, change of government policy, political instability, strike, etc
All the costs and expenses not listed in "What's included in my Annapurna Sanctuary Tour Package?" will be counted as excludes
Highlights of the Tour
Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
Relax at hot spring in Jhinu Danda
Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhare peaks
Get a taste of rural Nepali life
Machhapuchhare Base Camp (4,000m)
Itinerary
You will start with a scenic drive after early morning breakfast, traveling by tourist bus out of the Kathmandu Valley and along the picturesque Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. Along the way, you get to enjoy majestically flowing rivers, terraced fields, villages, and sights of the snowy mountains, including Ganesh and Manaslu peaks. We will stop at Pokhara - the tourist capital of Nepal- and head to Dhampus, which is 2 hours away from Pokhara. Dhampus is a picturesque Gurung village that offers fabulous views of mountains such as Annapurna South Peaks, the Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and other peaks. We will stay in Dhampus this day, enjoying the sunset views of the Himalayas.
After breakfast, we set off our day's hike, and the trail will first take us to Pothana through rhododendron (the national flower of Nepal) and orchid-hung forests. The route is stone-paved on the steeper sections. You can catch the best views of Machhapuchhare from Pothana. As we continue forward, we reach a clearing on a pass- called Deurali, from where you can get fantastic views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. At this point, we are high up on the east side of the Modi Khola, and a descent follows through the forest alive with birds, ferns, and orchids taking us to a grand Modi Khola canyon. Little ahead lies Landruk - our destination for this day. Landruk offers outstanding views of Machhapuchhare (6920m), Annapurna South (7219m), and Hiunchuli (6441m).
From Landruk, we descend to the river and cross it. Then our route climbs quite steeply, high above the river, through bamboo forests and isolated farmsteads. We will be stopping at Jhinu Danda for lunch. If you are enthusiastic, you can walk for 20 minutes to reach the hot springs at Jhinu Danda and take a bath. After Jhino Danda, the trail ascends to Chomrong Village. Chomrong is built on the steep hillside and has a few shops and several tea houses, wooden lodges, and the whole village faces Macchappuchare (Fish-Tail Peak). In case, we arrive at Chomrong early, we will trek further to Sinuwa to spend the night.
If at Chomrong, we descend through the spread-out picturesque Chomrong Village to a river crossing before climbing again and heading north of the Modi River Valley. We cross a suspension bridge and then trek to Sinuwa Danda. If we stayed at Sinuwa Danda the previous night, we will start the trek from Sinuwa. The trail from Sinuwa Danda becomes somewhat wider as it passes through thick and dark rhododendron forests until we reach Khuldighar. From Khuldighar, we descend long and steep stone steps into deep bamboo and rhododendron forests to reach Bamboo. After a gentle ascent from Bamboo, we finally reach Himalaya. If we spent the last night at Sinuwa, we will trek to Deurali, otherwise, we will stay at Himalaya for the night.
Our path will differ in length based on where we spent the night. If we stayed in Himalaya, we ascend upstream gently along the banks of the Modi Khola and then through the rugged path over to the mountainside to reach Deurali. However, if we stayed at Deurali, the trek progresses from there. The walk until Machhapuchhre Base Camp is somewhat strenuous. From Machhapuchhre Base Camp, we get excellent views of the majestic Machhapuchhre, Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gandharvachuli, and Gangapurna, which is certainly a rewarding experience. We continue our trek leaving Macchapuchhare Base Camp until we reach Annapurna Base Camp. From the Annapurna Base Camp you will savor the mesmerizing views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and other peaks.
After savoring another sunrise on the Himalayas from our otherworldly Annapurna Base Camp, we will have our breakfast. Then it is time to retrace our path out of Annapurna Sanctuary and Modi River valley. Since we will be descending, the trek is quite easy, and on the way, you can enjoy the views of several waterfalls. We will eventually make it to Bamboo, our destination for the day.
We continue our descent, passing through the same serene rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forests, that we pursued during our ascent. Then we ascend slightly to Chomrong village before dropping down to the small, peaceful settlement of Jhinu Danda. This village has near
We have reached our final day on the trekking trails. Today, you will make a pleasant hike along the Modi River as we head down the beautiful Modi River Valley. The descent takes us through the fertile landscape until we reach Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi. We then say goodbye to the trails and make a return drive through picturesque countryside to Pokhara.
Today is an early start as we depart on a tourist bus and return to Kathmandu. The 200 km route first follows the banks of Marsyangdi River and then the Trishuli River offering fabulous natural scenery and farmlands. The bus makes a final climb, and we reach Kathmandu. We hope that your Annapurna Sanctuary trek was extremely enjoyable.
Route Map
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Frequently Asked & Question
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The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is considered a moderate- level journey, suitable for individualities with a reasonable level of physical fitness. It involves walking for 5 to 7 hours daily on rugged terrain with significant ascents and descents.
The ideal seasons for this journey are spring( March to May) and autum( September to November), offering stable rainfall, clear skies, and excellent mountain views.
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