Annapurna Base Camp Trek: A Journey Through Nature's Paradise

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a dream for many adventure seekers. Nestled in the heart of Nepal, this trek offers breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and an unforgettable experience in the Himalayas. Our journey to ABC was nothing short of incredible, filled with unexpected challenges, stunning views, and memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for an epic trekking adventure, this is one you shouldn’t miss.

Setting Out

Our adventure began the day after Bhai Tika, a Hindu festival celebrated in November 2023. Five of us set out on this incredible journey, filled with excitement and anticipation. Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most popular trekking destinations, attracting adventurers from around the world. We knew we were about to embark on something special.

We took a morning bus from Kalanki, Kathmandu, bound for Pokhara. The excitement was high, but fate had a small surprise in store for us. Just as we crossed Thankot, our bus broke down. We had to wait two hours for repairs, but this unexpected delay gave us time to interact with fellow travelers and share stories. These little hiccups are what make journeys even more memorable.

The road to Pokhara was long, winding through lush hills and charming villages. By the time we reached Pokhara, it was already 9 PM—much later than planned. Originally, we intended to go straight to Ghandruk and begin our trek, but the delay forced us to stay overnight in Pokhara. Instead of being disappointed, we made the most of it by exploring the lakeside, grabbing a warm meal, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this beautiful city.

The Trek Begins: Jhinu Danda to Chhomrong

The next morning, we took a bus to Jhinu Danda, the real starting point of our trek. The ride was lively—we sang songs with fellow travelers, some heading to Ghandruk and others trekking like us. The atmosphere was filled with energy and excitement.

After reaching Jhinu Danda, we had a quick lunch before setting off on our trek. The initial part of the trek was a mix of steep uphill climbs and straight descents. The climb to Chhomrong was particularly tough—perhaps because it was our first day. But once we reached the village, we were rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills and terraced fields. Chhomrong is a beautiful, well-maintained village with warm hospitality. After a short break, we continued our ascent towards Lower Sinuwa, where we spent the night.

Through the Forest: Sinuwa to Himalaya

The next day, after a hearty breakfast, we continued our trek. The trail passed through dense forests, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks peeking through the trees. We stopped at Bamboo for lunch, a quiet resting spot surrounded by towering bamboo trees.

As we continued towards Himalaya, the air grew crisper, and the sounds of nature became more prominent. We reached Himalaya around 8 PM, exhausted but exhilarated. The night sky here was incredible—clear and full of stars. It was a humbling reminder of how small we are compared to the grandeur of the Himalayas.

The Most Beautiful Day: Himalaya to ABC

The following day was the most scenic part of our trek. Shortly after leaving Himalaya, we reached Deurali, a picturesque stop along the way. The trail then opened up into a wide valley with a river flowing through it, surrounded by towering cliffs. This was nature at its finest—raw, untamed, and breathtaking.

We saw more trekkers on this stretch than on any other day. Some were returning, sharing their excitement about what lay ahead. As we reached Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), one of our friends began feeling the effects of altitude sickness. Unfortunately, he had to stay back at MBC to recover while the rest of us pushed forward to ABC.

The journey from MBC to ABC was mesmerizing. The valley opened up even more, revealing panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks. Each step felt like walking through a dream. When we finally reached ABC, the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. We had made it!

A Night to Remember: The Cricket World Cup at ABC

That night at ABC was special for another reason—it was the final match of the 2023 Cricket World Cup between Australia and India. Every trekker, regardless of nationality, gathered around to watch. There were Indian trekkers cheering for their team, and I, being an Australian supporter, found myself in a friendly banter with them. The energy in the room was electric, filled with excitement and laughter.

Watching the match in such an extraordinary setting, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, was surreal. It was a reminder that sports have a way of bringing people together, no matter where we are.

The Last Day: Sunrise and the Journey Back

The next morning, we woke up early to witness something magical—the sunrise over Annapurna. As the first rays of sunlight hit the towering peaks, the mountains turned golden, creating a view we will never forget. It was the perfect way to conclude our trek.

After breakfast, we began our descent. While going downhill was easier in some ways, it was still tough on the knees. We retraced our steps, stopping for breaks and sharing stories with fellow trekkers. One of the highlights of our return journey was stopping at Jhinu Hot Springs. After days of trekking, soaking in the warm natural springs was the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate our tired muscles.

Why You Should Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is more than just a journey through the mountains—it’s a journey within. The experience of walking through dense forests, crossing roaring rivers, climbing steep stone steps, and finally standing beneath the mighty Annapurna peaks is indescribable.

The trek is not just about the breathtaking scenery; it's also about the people you meet along the way. We encountered fellow trekkers from around the world, each with their own stories and motivations. The warmth of the local villagers, the camaraderie among travelers, and the shared moments of struggle and triumph made this journey unforgettable.

The unpredictability of the trek, from bus breakdowns to altitude sickness, only added to the adventure. These challenges made reaching ABC even more rewarding. The moments of exhaustion were balanced by moments of awe, reminding us why we seek adventure in the first place.

If you’re someone who loves nature, adventure, and a bit of a challenge, this trek is for you. Annapurna Base Camp offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical endurance. The journey will test you, inspire you, and leave you with stories to tell for a lifetime.

So, if you’re looking for your next adventure, put Annapurna Base Camp on your list. Trust me—you won’t regret it!