The long-standing challenge for trekkers carrying their supplies on the Maurice Herzog Trail and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek in Myagdi has now been resolved. Temporary shelters, including tents and rest areas, have been set up along the route in Annapurna Rural Municipality-4, providing food, snacks, and accommodation for trekkers.
Previously, due to the lack of hotels or lodges, visitors had to carry their supplies, including food, cooking utensils, gas, and clothing. However, local youths from Narchyang have now established tea stalls, restaurants, and rest camps with approval from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and the rural municipality.
According to ward member Shyam Purja, this initiative has not only made trekking easier but also created employment and income opportunities for locals. Camps have been set up at Phutphute Waterfall, Sadikharka, Gufa Phat, Bhusket, and Panchakunda Lake near Annapurna Base Camp, with accommodation available for up to 50 trekkers per night.
As permanent structures are not legally allowed in the conservation area, these camps operate seasonally. Authorities are currently working on setting service fees for the area based on estimated costs.
The Maurice Herzog Trail follows a scenic route along the Mistri Khola River, featuring towering waterfalls, breathtaking Himalayan views, diverse geography, rare flora and fauna, and leads to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,100 meters above sea level. From Narchyang, trekkers can drive two hours to Humkhola, from where they can reach the base camp in two days and return on the third day.
Due to its short trekking duration, ABC has become a popular choice for tourists. This trail, originally used by French climber Maurice Herzog nearly 70 years ago for the first ascent of Annapurna, was rediscovered in 2010 by Tej Gurung of Narchyang and officially named after Herzog by Annapurna Rural Municipality in 2020.
The peaceful and remote setting, wildlife, deep gorges, forests, the stunning Phutphute Waterfall, and the blue waters of Panchakunda Lake at the foot of Annapurna remain major highlights of this trekking route.
