Introduction:
The vast amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary is encircled by famous Himalayan peaks - the 'fishtail' spire of Machapuchare (6993m), Gangapurna (7454m), Annapurna I (8091m), unclimbed Fang (7647m), and Annapurna South (7273m). The only approach follows the Modi Khola Valley up through forests of oak, rhododendron and bamboo, and passes beyond the villages of the Gurung people to a world of soaring peaks.
 Gurung Villages & 'the Gate': Flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara, we'll drive to Dhampus Phedi to begin our trek. We climb to Dhampus (1720m) for our first night and are rewarded by excellent views of the Annapurnas. Walking through oak forest we cross several side valleys which run into the Modi Khola and climb a stone 'staircase' to the Gurung village of Chomro (2060m). Trekking past Hinko cave, we reach what is known as the 'Gate' into the Sanctuary - a pass between the spectacular peaks of Huinchuli and Machapuchare.
 10-Day 'Sanctuary' Trek: The glaciated and snow-covered peaks of the Sanctuary form a spectacular natural barrier. Dazzling views of Annapurna South confront us as we trek up through the last permanent settlements to Machapuchare Base Camp (3720m) where we are rewarded with superb views of the sacred 'Fishtail' mountain. Whilst here, it is possible to make a further excursion to Annapurna South Base Camp. Retracing our steps down the valley we then return to Pokhara by a slightly different route. From Chomro we walk through the prosperous Gurung village of Ghandrung then return to Phedi and on to Pokhara. We have a day here to enjoy this lake-side town before returning to the capital Kathmandu.
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