This popular trek can be done in several ways, but a particularly scenic route is to follow the first part of the Jomson Trek up Poon Hill for the views of Dhaulagiri and the Kali Gandaki canyon, then follow a connecting trail to the Annapurna Sanctuary trail. The route to the dramatic and isolated cirque known as the Annapurna Sanctuary leads up a narrow, glacier-carved valley directly beneath the famous spire of Machapuchare, or "Fishtail." Eventually the Machapuchare Base Camp ("MBC") is reached just past the entrance to the Sanctuary. Another few hours leads to the Annapurna South Base Camp ("ABC"), where there is a memorial to the celebrated Russian climber Anatoly Boukreev, who was swept to his death by an avalanche while attempting the vast South Face of Annapurna I - one of the most difficult walls ever climbed. The views of the various peaks of the Annapurna range are awesome, and in spring the lower part of the Sanctuary is full of pretty wildflowers. There are lodges all the way for trekkers. Avalanches are a rare but occasionally lethal hazard on this trek in spring. Be sure to enjoy a soak in the riverside hot springs of Thinu Danda on the way back down.

Written by  Mike Lyvers.

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Great post about annapurna sanctuary trek. A shorter trek than the Annapurna circuit, the Annapurna Sanctuary trek gives you a great overall impression of the natural beauty in this area and some spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri Ranges and the Ganesh Himal Ranges. A visit to the Sanctuary gives you the opportunity to see some of the local wildlife. This 12 day adventure begins with an ascent to Poon Hill, a famous lookout point to watch the sun rise over the Annapurna mountains. From here you descend into Modi Kola Valley to enjoy some natural hot springs nestles beside a river.

 

Comment posted 26th June 2009 by Kulendra Baral.

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