Our trek begins from Nayapul, which is about an hour’s scenic drive from Pokhara, offering fabulous views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) en route. From Nayapul, a half-hour walk brings us to Birethanti, situated at the confluence of the Modi and Bhurung rivers. Here, the trail splits, and we take the western route towards Ghorepani, a traditional trading village located at an elevation of 2,750 meters. Nearby lies Poon Hill (3,194 meters), a renowned vantage point offering breathtaking sunrise views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.
From Ghorepani, the trail heads east to the quaint hamlet of Tadapani, and then continues to Chhomrong, the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. From here, we begin our ascent towards Annapurna Base Camp, following a dramatic valley nestled between the towering walls of Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. The trail eventually opens up into a stunning natural amphitheater, where a majestic array of peaks including Annapurna I rises almost vertically before us.