Trekking · Annapurna Base Camp
From Machhapuchhre Base Camp into the sanctuary
The last stage of the trek: from Machhapuchhre Base Camp at 3,700 m, walk up the open valley of the sanctuary to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m, with the fishtail peak behind you and Annapurna I growing ahead.
Machhapuchhre Base Camp is a misnomer: no climbing expedition uses it, because the mountain has been closed to climbing since 1957, when a British team stopped about 50 m short of the summit by agreement with King Mahendra. The lodges sit on a grassy shelf with the peak directly above, its summit tower dark against the sky.
From here the trail climbs gently up the sanctuary floor, beside the lateral moraine of the South Annapurna glacier. It is open, high country of grass and stones, with snow in spring and late autumn. The air is thin, so walk slowly, about 2–3 hours for 430 m of ascent. Behind you Machhapuchhre changes shape; ahead the ring of Annapurna peaks closes in.
Many trekkers walk up early from MBC for sunrise at ABC, starting in the dark. Others sleep at ABC. Either way, watch for signs of altitude sickness, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. In bad weather the trail can be hard to follow; stay with your guide.
Good for
Questions
Why can't you climb Machhapuchhre?
Machhapuchhre is sacred to Gurung people as a home of Shiva, and Nepal has issued no climbing permits for it since a 1957 British expedition stopped about 46 m below the summit by agreement with King Mahendra. It is effectively closed to climbing. There are unconfirmed reports of an illegal ascent in the early 1980s.
Should I sleep at Machhapuchhre Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp?
It depends on acclimatisation and availability. Sleeping at MBC (3,700 m) and walking to ABC for sunrise reduces time at the highest altitude. Sleeping at ABC (4,130 m) gives sunset and sunrise there. Lodges at both fill in peak season. Your guide will decide based on how you feel and on bookings.
Is altitude sickness common on the ABC trek?
Mild symptoms such as headache and poor sleep are common above 3,500 m; serious altitude sickness is less common because the ascent is gradual. Climb steadily, drink water, avoid alcohol and tell your guide about worsening headache, vomiting or confusion. The cure is descent. Consider talking to a doctor about acetazolamide before you go.
Also in Annapurna Base Camp
More ways to spend the day
NatureSunrise inside the Annapurna Sanctuary
Step out of your lodge at 4,130 m before dawn and watch the sun light the summit of Annapurna I, …
Slow daysSoak in the hot springs at Jhinu Danda
On the way down from the sanctuary, walk 20 minutes below the village of Jhinu Danda to natural hot pools …
HeritageChhomrong, the Gurung gateway to the sanctuary
Spend an afternoon in Chhomrong, the large Gurung village at about 2,170 m that controls the gateway to the Annapurna …