Tourism Info Nepal

Infrastructure Development Initiated on Annapurna Base Camp and Maurice Herzog Trail

Infrastructure Development Initiated on Annapurna Base Camp and Maurice Herzog Trail

In Myagdi’s Annapurna Rural Municipality-4, Narachyang, infrastructure development on the Annapurna Base Camp and Maurice Herzog Trail is underway with a budget of NPR 12.5 million. Funded by Annapurna Rural Municipality (NPR 10 million), Nepal Tourism Board (NPR 2 million), and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) (NPR 0.5 million), the project includes shelters, restrooms, drinking water facilities, trekking paths, tea shops, and an open museum.

According to Bharat Kumar Pun, Chairperson of Annapurna Rural Municipality, temporary structures are being constructed to facilitate tourists due to policy restrictions on permanent structures in conservation areas. The municipality has also invited tenders for operating tea and snack shops along the trail.

Chief Administrative Officer Ram Prasad Sharma Kandel stated that surveys, cost estimates, and the formation of consumer committees have been completed. Three shelters are being constructed at Sandhikharka, Bhuskhet, and Panchakunda Lake at a cost of NPR 4 million. Additionally, NPR 3 million has been allocated for water and restroom facilities at Humkhola, Futfute Waterfall, Bhuskhet, and Panchakunda, while tea shops and an open museum are being developed at Futfute Waterfall and the base camp with an investment of NPR 1 million each.

The open museum will preserve records and artifacts related to the Annapurna Base Camp, said Sub-Engineer Balakrishna Poudel. Efforts to improve trekking trails are also ongoing, utilizing NPR 2 million from the Nepal Tourism Board, NPR 1 million from the municipality, and NPR 0.5 million from ACAP.

The project aims to address challenges faced by tourists visiting the base camp, including food, accommodation, and waste management, especially in remote areas devoid of hotels and restaurants. During the Dashain-Tihar season, approximately 5,000 domestic tourists visited the base camp, according to Ward Chairperson Lok Bahadur Phagami. Plans are also underway to enhance facilities such as suspension bridges, communication networks, electricity, and tourist checkpoints along the Maurice Herzog Trail.

The Annapurna Base Camp offers a picturesque journey through diverse landscapes, including towering waterfalls, unique geography, rare flora and fauna, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri mountain ranges. The trail also features the stunning Panchakunda Lake, with its striking blue waters, as a major attraction. Due to its accessibility and potential for a three-day adventurous trek, the base camp remains a favorite among tourists.

The Maurice Herzog Trail, named after the first climber of Annapurna, was identified in 2068 BS under the leadership of Tej Gurung from Narachyang. The 42-kilometer trail, with a 20-kilometer motorable road and 22 kilometers of trekking path, now serves as a gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp, blending history, adventure, and natural beauty.

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