When I first planned my Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, I focused on the usual things — the mountain views, reaching the base camp, and making sure I had all the right gear.
But once I was on the trail, I began to notice small moments and quiet places that weren’t in most travel guides. These hidden highlights made the trek even more special for me.
In this blog, I want to share those little-known parts of the ABC trek that many tourists miss. If you’re planning this journey, these tips might help you enjoy more than just the destination.
1. Landruk Village – The Peaceful Start Most Skip
Many people rush straight from Pokhara to Ghandruk or Jhinu Danda. But I started my trek from Landruk, a beautiful village on the less-crowded side of the trail. It’s peaceful, clean, and full of stone-paved paths and terraced fields.
I got to stay in a small teahouse with a view of the valley and the snow-capped peaks. The locals were warm and curious. Starting from Landruk gave me a gentler pace and a chance to feel the quiet rhythm of mountain life.
2. Sunrise from Tadapani – Not Just Poon Hill
People talk a lot about sunrise from Poon Hill, but I found the sunrise at Tadapani to be just as magical, and with fewer people. I woke up early and stood outside the teahouse with a cup of tea.
The first light slowly touched the peaks of Machapuchare and Annapurna South. The silence, broken only by birds, felt almost spiritual. It was one of those calm moments that stays with you long after the trek is over.
3. Hot Springs at Jhinu Danda – Go Early or Late
Yes, Jhinu Danda’s hot springs are not exactly a secret. But many trekkers visit them during mid-day when they’re the most crowded. I decided to go in the early morning, just after sunrise.
The short walk down to the river was peaceful. The air was cold, and the water was warm. I had the pool almost to myself. Listening to the river while sitting in natural hot water was deeply relaxing.
4. The Hidden Waterfalls Along the Way
On the way from Chhomrong to Bamboo and beyond, I noticed several small waterfalls just off the trail. Most people walk past them quickly, focused on reaching the next stop.
But I made a habit of pausing whenever I heard running water. Sometimes, a small detour of just a few steps led me to a lovely spot — a quiet corner with fresh spray, smooth rocks, and cool mist. These spots made great places to rest my feet and breathe in the mountain air.
5. The People and Their Stories
One of the most meaningful parts of my trek wasn’t a place — it was the people.
One evening in Sinuwa, I spoke with the woman who ran our teahouse. She told me how her children studied in Pokhara and how business had changed after the earthquake. In another village, I met a young porter who was saving to become a trekking guide.
Taking time to ask simple questions and listen brought me closer to the life behind the trail. These stories added depth to my journey.
6. Cloud Forests and Mossy Trails
Between Bamboo and Deurali, the trail passes through a beautiful cloud forest. Many trekkers walk quickly through this section, especially if it’s misty.
But this part felt like another world to me — tall trees covered in moss, wet stones, and thin light filtering through the forest. I slowed down here. The silence and softness of the forest gave me a feeling of being far away from everyday life. I felt like I had stepped into a dream.
7. Deurali’s Cliffside Viewpoint
Most trekkers stay at Deurali and rest for the night. But just behind the village is a short trail that leads to a cliffside viewpoint. I reached it in the evening, just before dinner.
The view looked down into the Modi Khola river valley, and the sound of the wind mixed with distant rushing water. No one else was there. It was a place that made me feel both small and full at the same time.
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is about more than just the mountains. The real beauty, I learned, lies in the quiet corners, the simple meals, the early mornings, and the human connections.
If you keep your eyes open and take your time, you’ll find many hidden highlights along the way.
Let the journey show you its secrets — one step at a time.
