The Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp section of the Annapurna Base Camp trek runs from about 3,200 m to about 3,700 m. Typical time is 2 to 3 hours, rated hard. That is a net gain of roughly 500 m.
Quick facts
- Start: Deurali, about 3,200 m
- End: Machhapuchhre Base Camp, about 3,700 m
- Change: a net gain of roughly 500 m
- Typical time: 2 to 3 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
The route
The trail climbs through the narrow Modi Khola gorge past Bagar and the area known for avalanche risk, then opens out to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, a cluster of lodges below the peak.
Altitude and health
Part of this section is at or above 3,000 m, so altitude sickness is possible. Walk slowly, drink water, avoid alcohol and tell your guide about headaches, nausea or poor sleep. Descend if symptoms worsen. Altitudes vary by a few tens of metres between maps and guidebooks.
Tips
The gorge can be hit by avalanches after heavy snow. Check conditions locally and follow your guide.
Common questions
- Is Machhapuchhre Base Camp an actual base camp? It is a trekker stop. The peak itself is a protected, unclimbed summit.
- Why sleep here? It breaks the climb to Annapurna Base Camp and lowers the sleeping altitude.
Reverse direction
Walking Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Deurali is the same trail in reverse. It is usually quicker because it is mostly downhill, but a long descent is hard on the knees, so poles help.
Nearby legs on this route
- Chhomrong to Dovan
- Dovan to Himalaya
- Himalaya to Deurali
- Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp
- Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp
- Chhomrong to Annapurna Base Camp
Plan it
Back to all route information or see the Annapurna Base Camp trek guides.
