The Maurice Herzog Trekking Route in Annapurna Rural Municipality-4 has undergone significant infrastructure enhancements, thanks to contributions from generous donors. Lalita Sherpunja of Raghu Ganga Rural Municipality-1, Beg, led the initiative, gathering funds to build essential amenities, including a two-room public toilet and a drinking water system at Sandhikharka along the trekking path.
“During my trek to Annapurna Base Camp via the Maurice Herzog Trekking Route, I realized the need for public toilets, drinking water, and waste management,” said Sherpunja. “I appealed for support through social media, and with donor assistance, we managed to construct these facilities despite the monsoon season.”
Sherpunja, who recently returned to Nepal after studying in Australia, sent NPR 460,000 to trail advocates Tej Gurung and Tam Chochangi Pun of Narchyang for the construction of these amenities.
The project received additional support from various donors. Chochangi mentioned that the funds were used to hire eight workers for 15 days, purchase construction materials, and build the toilet, drinking water supply, and a waste management pit.
The absence of public toilets has been a challenge for tourists, locals, and trekking staff, contributing to environmental pollution. Sherpunja emphasized that the public toilet was built to maintain cleanliness and provide convenience for tourists.
Named in honor of Maurice Herzog, who led the first successful ascent of Annapurna I (8,091 meters) by a French team on June 3, 1950, the Maurice Herzog Trekking Route connects Narchyang to the base camp. Identified in 2011 under the leadership of Tej Gurung of Narchyang, the route has been operational since 2020.
The 22 km trekking route from Humkhola to the base camp features suspension bridges and shelters, making it a popular choice for tourists due to the possibility of completing the trek in a single day. Shelters have been constructed at Sandhikharka, Dharamdhunga, Bhusket, Gufafant, Humkhola, and Chhotepa. Trekkers are advised to carry camping gear as there are no hotels or lodges along the route.
The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri mountains, tall waterfalls, unique geography, and rare flora and fauna. The picturesque Panchakunda Lake, spread over 20,000 square meters at the foot of Annapurna, adds to the route’s attractions.
An integrated master plan for developing and promoting the Maurice Herzog Trekking Route, including water supply, shelters, communication, electricity, and trail improvements, has been drafted. Bharat Kumar Pun, Chairperson of Annapurna Rural Municipality, highlighted the importance of promotional activities to attract more tourists to the trail.
