A family adventure through Nepal’s crown jewel
The Adventure Begins
December 23rd dawned crisp and clear in Pokhara as Don, Mary, and I prepared for what would become one of our most memorable adventures. We kicked off our ten-day Annapurna Base Camp trek with a jeep ride from Pokhara to Nayapul, the gateway to the Annapurna Conservation Area. The two-hour drive through winding mountain roads was just a taste of the journey ahead.
Our guide Lahar had met us that morning at our hotel with his warm smile and reassuring presence that would carry us through the days to come. Little did we know that mother nature had her own plans for our trek, plans that would make this winter adventure even more extraordinary.
Into the Heart of the Sanctuary
The Annapurna Sanctuary, also known as the Annapurna Conservation Area, is a natural amphitheatre surrounded by towering peaks including the magnificent Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and countless other giants. For five days, we trekked through this magical landscape, each step taking us deeper into one of the world’s most spectacular mountain sanctuaries.
The trail wound through rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, and waterfalls, while traditional Gurung villages dotted our path. We shared the trail with other trekkers, most moving faster than me, I’ll admit and the occasional donkey train carrying supplies to the higher settlements. Dogs accompanied us at various stages, seeming to know exactly where we were headed and offering their silent companionship.
A Magical Second Night
On day two, we reached the beautiful village of Chhomrong, one of the largest Gurung settlements in the area and an important stopover point for trekkers at approximately 2,170 meters. As evening fell and we settled into our tea house, ate our meal or vegetable noodle soup and honey lemon ginger tea.
In the morning we woke to the rhythmic sound of monk chanting drifting across the valley from a nearby monastery, their ancient prayers echoing off the surrounding peaks. The haunting melodies seemed to bless our journey and remind us that we were walking through sacred lands. From our tea house in Chhomrong, we could hear these timeless chants as prayer flags fluttered in the mountain breeze, creating a soundtrack that would stay with us long after the trek ended.
When the Snow Began to Fall
Day three brought the weather we’d been watching for. As we climbed higher into the sanctuary, the first snowflakes began to fall. What started as a gentle dusting quickly became a proper snowfall that would continue for the rest of our journey. The mountains, already stunning, transformed into a winter wonderland that took our breath away.
The snow kept coming – soft, persistent, and beautiful. It clung to the prayer flags strung between trees and settlements, frosted the waterfalls we passed, and created that perfect mountain silence that only fresh snow can bring. Each step crunched beneath our feet as we made our way through this transformed landscape.
The Crown Jewel: Annapurna Base Camp
After five days of steady climbing, we finally reached Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). We arrived at night, exhausted but exhilarated, at the tea house that would be our highest accommodation. The snow was falling steadily, and we quickly settled in for what we hoped would be a clear morning.
We woke to pure magic.
The sunrise over the Annapurna range was absolutely breathtaking – the peaks turned golden as the first light touched Annapurna I, Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna, and the iconic Machhapuchhre. Standing at the base camp, we were surrounded by a complete 360-degree amphitheater of some of the world’s highest mountains. The fresh snow made everything sparkle like diamonds, and for those precious moments at sunrise, we felt like we were standing in a cathedral built by the gods themselves.
Memories That Last a Lifetime
Those ten days in the Annapurna Sanctuary created memories that our family will treasure forever. Mary’s determination as we climbed higher each day, Don’s steady encouragement when the going got tough, and Lahar’s expert guidance that kept us safe and on track – these are the moments that make adventure travel so special.
The snow that followed us throughout the trek wasn’t just weather; it was the element that transformed our journey from a beautiful trek into something truly extraordinary. Every waterfall became a work of art, every prayer flag a splash of color against the white landscape, and every morning brought new wonders to discover.
The Journey Home
After soaking in the majesty of Annapurna Base Camp, we began our descent through the same magical landscape, eventually making our way back through the Conservation Area to Nayapul and the waiting jeep that would return us to Pokhara.
As we drove back through the foothills, leaving the snow-capped peaks behind us, we carried with us more than just photos and souvenirs. We carried the sound of monk chanting across mountain valleys, the sight of sunrise on pristine peaks, the memory of snow falling silently on ancient trails, and the knowledge that sometimes the most beautiful adventures are the ones where nature adds her own special touch.
The Annapurna Sanctuary had welcomed us, challenged us, and ultimately blessed us with an experience that none of us will ever forget. Ten days, countless steps, one incredible family adventure – and memories to last several lifetimes.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek remains one of Nepal’s most accessible and rewarding adventures, suitable for trekkers of various experience levels. Whether you encounter snow like we did or enjoy clear mountain skies, the Sanctuary offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Let's Trek Together 