Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara
If you follow a full Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary, you will start the journey upon your arrival in Kathmandu. You can have one full day in each city to explore and look around. Kathmandu boasts one-of-a-kind man-made marvels that are centuries old. Likewise, Pokhara is a city within nature.
Every foreigner visiting Nepal must explore the historical monuments in Kathmandu. Likewise, the lakes, waterfalls, and caves in Pokhara are also captivating and must-visit places. We can even organize a guided tour in both cities with a professional, friendly tour guide.
1) Adventure sports in Pokhara (paragliding, ultra-light mountain flight, zipline):
Pokhara is heaven when it comes to natural wonders and adventure activities. The city is the focal point of paragliding in Nepal. You can enjoy guided paragliding at a fraction of the cost. One of the professional paragliders will fly with you, making the gliding safe and comfortable.
Likewise, there are also options for ultra-light mountain flights, ziplining, bungee jumping, etc. All these activities are super safe and affordable. Travelers who love thrills must do these activities.
Let us know if you want to combine any of these activities in your ABC trek with us. We will get you the best price and make the reservations.
2) Visit the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk:
Ghandruk is a beautiful Nepal village located 1,950 meters above sea level. We highly recommend that trekkers include an excursion to this village in their Annapurna Base Camp itinerary. You can either pass by the village or spend the night.
Gurungs are the main inhabitants of Ghandruk village. Most of the villagers are also famous Gurkha soldiers. The village has a Gurung Museum where you can explore more about their culture, traditions, beliefs, attire, etc.
The museum also showcases the community's craftsmanship and artistic side. Moreover, the mountain scenery from here is also incredible.
2) The picturesque Ghorepani Village and Poon Hill viewpoint:
Ghorepani is another famous village in the Annapurna Region, situated at 2,874 meters above sea level. It is also a Gurung and Magar village. The village is surrounded by stunning mountains and rhododendron trees.
If you are not in a rush, we highly recommend trekking to Ghorepani village during your Annapurna Base Camp trekking. Poon Hill is a viewpoint located at 3,210 meters. It can be reached in around an hour's walk from Ghorepani village.
You can see a gorgeous sunrise and jaw-dropping view of mountains like Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Tukuche Peak, etc, from Poon Hill. Altogether, 17+ western Himalayan mountains are visible from the viewpoint.
4) Indulge traditional Nepalese dishes during trekking:
Even though the resources and options are limited in the mountains, you will still get a very broad view of the Nepalese mountain lifestyle and food. The Annapurna Base Camp trek route offers a good variety of food, including pizza, French fries, pasta, etc.
You can definitely have this food, but we also want you to actively include Nepali dishes in your meals. This way, you will get a chance to try authentic Nepali flavors and savor delicious dishes.
For instance, dal bhat is considered the super trekking meal. It provides all the nutrients, and the food tastes great. The finer version is a kathakali set that you may find in some lodges and is widely available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Some other dishes we recommend to trekkers while visiting Nepal are sekuwa, bara, sell roti, chatamari, gundruk, etc.
5) Explore Caves in Deurali:
Not many trekkers know, but there are caves in Deurali. It is a small settlement located at 3,200 meters. Usually, trekkers spend the night at Deurali and hike to Annapurna Base Camp the next day.
During your time here, we highly recommend that you explore intriguing rocks and caves around the villages. The caves are cool and damp, and you can hear the echo of your footsteps. It will be quite a thrilling experience.
6) Discover diverse vegetation, wildlife, and birds:
The Annapurna Base Camp trail is within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to 1,226 species of flowering plants, 105 mammals, 518 birds, 40 reptiles, and 23 amphibians.
Of course, you will not come across all the species of plants and wildlife because the conservation area is huge and ranges from 1,000 meters to 8,000+ meters. However, the ABC trek will give you a good view of the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna region.
Spotting wildlife is rare on the Annapurna Base Camp trail, but you may see birds like eagles and pheasants. Similarly, you may also come across Himalayan tahr, langur monkeys, and mules on the way.
7) Visit the Hinku Cave Rock:
Hinku Cave is a famous landmark on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. It is a massive overhanging rock that provides a fantastic resting spot for the trekkers. The cave's marvel is mesmerizing. You can feel a deeper connection to nature while being here.
8) Socialize with fellow trekkers: you will meet people from all around the world on the ABC trek route:
One of the perks of trekking in Nepal is meeting people from all over the world. This is especially true on popular trekking routes like Annapurna Base Camp. If you love making friends or talking to new people, you will have a great time during trekking.
The spring and autumn seasons welcome the highest number of trekkers, so plan your trip around this time. Dining halls in the lodges along the trail are usually where you can socialize during trekking. We also recommend talking with locals and getting to know them closely. It will enhance your trekking experience.
9) The natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda:
Most of the Annapurna Base Camp trek Itinerary has a final stop at Jhinu Danda. This is where trekkers end the ABC trek and return to Pokhara. Located at 1,780 meters, Jhinu Danda is a lovely little village with well-maintained natural hot springs.
After a long hike to Annapurna Base Camp, the hot springs offer your body and soul a pleasant respite. However, using the hot springs costs a few bucks, so make sure you have money. These hot springs have healing properties, too. So, your skin and muscles will be amazing.
Bonus:
Join yoga/meditation sessions and sound healing sessions in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Kathmandu and Pokhara have many yoga and meditation studios that welcome walking. You will find both budget-friendly and luxurious experiences.
Likewise, there are sound healing studios, aerial yoga studios, reformer pilates studios, etc. If you are into mindfulness and spirituality, we highly recommend exploring these activities.
There are also pottery and painting studios where you can spend a few hours creating art. A studio master will guide you and help you with everything so you will not be on your own and lost. Cooking classes are also available, where you can learn to cook your favorite Nepali food.
10) Shopping, spa, massage, facials, nail extensions in Kathmandu and Pokhara:
We cannot end this blog without recommending shopping and spas in Kathmandu and Pokhara. One of the aspects of trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is enjoying the city and its amenities while you are there.
Unlike most of the megacities around the world, you will find services like spas, massages, facials, nail extensions, etc, at a very affordable cost in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Trust us, the services and hospitality are simply top-notch, so you will not be disappointed. You can experience these indulgences before or after your trek.
Similarly, shopping in Kathmandu and Pokhara is also highly recommended if you love buying from local shops. Apart from the typical souvenir, we suggest trekkers check out Nepali clothing, jewelry, footwear, bags, etc.
You can get your clothes tailored to perfection at a minimal cost. Likewise, buy art, pashmina, cashmere, etc. It will make your Annapurna Base Camp trek even more memorable.
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