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Machhapuchhre Base Camp: Gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary

Pokhara and Annapurna

In this article
  1. Machhapuchhre Base Camp at a glance
  2. Safety
  3. Trips and guides
  4. Plan your visit

Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) sits at about 3,700 m at the entrance to the Annapurna Sanctuary, beneath the sharp summit of Machhapuchhre ("fishtail"). The peak is sacred and closed to climbing; it has no recorded official summit ascent.

Quick answer: MBC is the last stop before Annapurna Base Camp, about 2 hours further. Many trekkers sleep here and walk up to ABC for sunrise.

Machhapuchhre Base Camp at a glance

FactDetails
AltitudeAbout 3,700 m
PeakMachhapuchhre, closed to climbing
NextAnnapurna Base Camp, about 2 hours
TrekAnnapurna Base Camp
RisksAvalanche-prone gorge below

Safety

The trail below MBC passes avalanche-prone slopes; follow your guide and local advice, especially after snowfall.

Trips and guides

Plan your visit

MBC is where the Sanctuary opens up. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we hear most. Can’t find what you need? Our team in Kathmandu is happy to help.

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About 3,700 m.

No, it is sacred and closed.

About 2 hours.

"Fishtail".

Parts are avalanche-prone; follow advice.