Wilderness & Travel Medicine in the Himalaya

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (also known as The Annapurna Base Camp Trek) is nothing short of spectacular.

As one of the shortest major treks in Nepal, it offers an incredible experience that combines rich culture with unparalleled dramatic scenery. This trek is an unforgettable journey that few will ever experience.

We begin in Kathmandu, a colorful and bustling city like no other where diverse cultures and ancient traditions intermingle. A short flight brings us to the lakeside city of Pokhara where our journey deep into the world’s tallest mountain range begins.

Our path winds through one of the world’s deepest gorges and delivers us to Annapurna Base Camp, an amphitheater surrounded by awe-inspiring Himalayan giants. Along the way, we’ll walk through bamboo forests, terraced fields, and the warm and resilient villagers who manage them. We’ll stay in comfortable lodges each evening where we’ll gather for pre-dinner CME lectures.

WILDERNESS & TRAVEL MEDICINE CLASSES: COURSE INFORMATION

Accreditation 16 Hours AMA PRA Category 1 Credits

WILDERNESS MEDICINE COURSE CONTENT INCLUDES:

• Altitude Illness
• Hypothermia
• Frostbite
• Heat Illness
• Snakebites
• Travelers Illnesses
• Marine Envenomations
• Trauma Management
• Wilderness Orthopedics
• Water Disinfection
• Swiftwater Safety and Rescue
• Basic Wilderness Survival
• Wilderness Medical Kits
• Wound Management
• Patient Assessment
• Wilderness Dermatology
• Wilderness Pediatrics

CME ACCREDITATION INFORMATION
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint providership of the Center for Emergency Medical Education and Wilderness and Travel Medicine. The Center for Emergency Medical Education is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The Center for Emergency Medical Education designates this live activity for a maximum of 16 AMA PRA Category 1 CreditsTM.

Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Please note that this itinerary is subject to change because of weather or other factors.

Day 1 – Arrive in Kathmandu (4,600 ft. elevation)
Your trip leader or local staff will meet you outside the customs and immigration area at the airport. He or she will escort you to the centrally located Yak & Yeti Hotel. Relax in the beautiful gardens of the Yak & Yeti, or take a stroll to the nearby popular neighborhood of Thamel. We will gather for a group introduction before a welcome dinner.

Day 2 – Explore Kathmandu
Following breakfast, you’ll have a fascinating guided morning tour of World Heritage Sites Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupati Crematory, and Swoyambhu (“Monkey Temple”). By western standards, the city is intimate. with many interesting sights, shrines, and markets. Following lunch, we will gather for a trip briefing and CME lectures at our hotel. In late afternoon, you will have more time to explore Kathmandu or relax and prepare for the trek. Overnight at the Yak & Yeti Hotel.

Day 3 – Flight to Pokhara and begin trek (6,655’)
We take an early morning scenic flight to Pokhara. The town is set in a gorgeous valley and is overlooked by the Annapurnas and chhapuchhare, two of the most distinctive of the Himalayan peaks. Next, we will drive 2-3 hours to the start of the trek in Hille/Bhanthathi at 4,875’. Following lunch, we’ll hit to trial to walk about 2 hours to Ulleri.

Day 4 – Ghorepani (9,450’)
The trail continues upwards as we enter the rhododendron forests. Once we emerge from the forests at Ghorepani, a splendid mountain vista appears before us with views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhare, Lamjung and other Himalayan peaks. We continue up
through Ghorepani to our accommodations (4-5 hours trekking time).

Day 5 – Sunrise ascent of Poon Hill then trek to Chuile (7453’)
This morning there is an optional ascent of Poon Hill (about an hour ascent to 10,475’) to watch the sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Massifs. Best seen at dawn, the climb is well worth the effort. After breakfast we head east, following a ridge to cross a pass at 10,334’. We pass through enchanting forest and rustic tea houses before a descent on stone steps through jungle. After crossing a stream, we hike back up to Tadapani where we have a superb view of Annapurna South and the peak of Machhapuchhare. Finally, we have a short descent to Chuile, where we have expansive mountain views (5-6 hours, 7-8 hours with Poon Hill ascent).

Day 6 – Descend to Chomrung (7,320’)
Trek steeply through the forest to the Kyumnu Khola, a tributary of the Modi Khola. From here a steep ascent brings us to Chhomrong (6,900’) another Gurung village and the last permanent settlement in the valley. From Chhomrong we have good views again of Annapurna South and
from this point onwards the twin-peaked mountain Machhapuchhare (4-5 hours).

Day 7 – Himalaya (9,580’)
Descend down a stone staircase to cross the Chhomrong Khola and then climb another stone staircase out of this side valley to Sinuwa, where we enter the main Modi Khola Valley. From Sinuwa the trail descends on stone steps through dense jungle and then undulates to lunch at
Bamboo, a cluster of lodges in a forest clearing. The forest around us is full of bamboo thickets. Continuing further through the bamboo forest we pass the town of Dobhan reach Himilaya at 9,580 feet (7-8 hours).

Day 8 – Machhaphure Base Camp (12,100’)
Today’s trek takes us above 10,000 feet, initially through dense forests. The path then becomes increasingly steep and rocky, passing the historic Hinko Cave, once a campsite for early Annapurna expeditions. Beyond this, we’ll cross a rugged ravine and ascend sharply between
Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre, ultimately reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Here, we are greeted with magnificent views of Huinchuli, Annapurna I, III, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre (3-4 hours).

Day 9 – Ascend to Annapurna Base Camp (13,500’), return to Himalaya (9,580’)
Rise early for a 2-hour hike to Annapurna Base Camp (13,500’). Here, take a moment for a light snack and to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery. You’ll be encircled by the towering, snow-capped peaks of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna Fang, Annapurna I and III, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhare. Following this awe-inspiring experience, begin your descent to Himalaya, where the air feels noticeably denser (7-8 hours).

Day 10 – Descend to Lower Sinuwa (6,600’)
Enjoy a mostly downhill journey as we bid farewell to the serene Annapurna Sanctuary. We’ll descend through a rocky trail, meandering through the picturesque village of Bamboo. This leg of the trek is as scenic as it is tranquil, immersing us in the serene ambiance of the region. (5-6 hours).

Day 11 – Complete the Trek and Return to Pokhara
Continue your descent towards Jhinudanda on a 2-3 hour downhill trek, crossing serene rivers and passing through verdant farmland. Upon arrival, a 2.5-hour vehicle ride will take us back to Pokhara. There, you’ll be welcomed with a comfortable hotel room and a delicious dinner, marking a satisfying end to the trek.

Day 12 – Explore Pokhara
Spend a leisurely day in the charming city of Pokhara. This is your chance to explore at your own pace, whether you opt for optional activities around the city or prefer to unwind by the poolside, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere at the Landmark Hotel. Pokhara offers a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation to suit every preference.

Day 13 – Return to Kathmandu
Fly to Kathmandu in the morning followed by a free afternoon for personal exploration in the city. The day culminates with a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight stay at Hotel Yak & Yeti.

Day 14 – Fly Home
Transfer to airport and depart Kathmandu.