Machapuchare Base Camp is a lodge settlement at about 3,700 m on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. It is reached on the standard ABC route and is often the last stop before the sanctuary.
A stop on the way to Annapurna
Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) sits at about 3,700 m in the Annapurna Sanctuary, one stage below Annapurna Base Camp. The place is a cluster of lodges on a grassy shelf beneath the Fishtail, with the Modi Khola river below and the amphitheatre of the Annapurna peaks ahead. Sleeping here is part of the standard Annapurna Base Camp trek.
How to reach it
The route starts at Nayapul and climbs by way of Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Himalaya and Deurali to MBC. Most groups take five to six days to reach it, going up gradually. It can also be reached via the Mardi Himal route, but that leads to a different base camp.
The experience
Evenings at MBC are cold, with the mountain glowing orange and then pink as the sun sets. Early morning gives clear views of the face. The trail beyond to Annapurna Base Camp at about 4,130 m takes two to three hours.
Altitude
At 3,700 m altitude sickness is possible, so go slowly and drink water. Avalanche risk on the final section is present in winter and spring.
A day at MBC
Most trekkers arrive in the afternoon, take tea in a lodge and wait for the evening light. After dinner, the stars are spectacular on clear nights. The next morning, many people leave early for Annapurna Base Camp to see the sunrise.
Safety note
Avalanche paths cross the trail between Deurali and MBC in winter and spring. Guides check conditions and sometimes delay or reroute. Follow their advice and cross open slopes quickly.
Accommodation and facilities
Lodges at MBC are basic, with dormitory style rooms, shared toilets and simple meals. Prices rise with altitude because supplies are carried up by porters. Book early in the high season and carry cash in rupees. Solar lighting is common but power is limited.
Acclimatisation advice
Spend a night at Himalaya or Deurali before MBC. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and rest in the afternoon. If symptoms appear, do not go higher. The base camp can be reached on foot from Deurali in about three hours.
Plan it
