#Day3 Forest Camp – Low Camp – Badal Danda

It’s nothing more important than waking up in a beautiful day with a clear blue sky atop everything! As clouds would roll in at noon time, we realized the importance of starting the hike as early as possible to enjoy an unobstructed view. This was now an easy routine that we had used to and looked forward to.

As the route climbs, the flora turns to classic ‘cloud forest’ with mosses and lichen, tree ferns, and little flowers hosted by the hardier trees. There are natural windows in the woods to look out onto thrilling panoramas, towards the snow capped mountains at one side, and Modi Khola Valley at the other side.

It was just before sunset when we arrived at the altitude of 3300m in Badal Danda. Our guide suggested that we should walk higher to Hotel Panorama, which promised a breathtaking view of the Machhapuchhre mountain. And he was right! The view was indeed spectacular.

#Day4 Badal Danda – High Camp

Despite the cold, we were determined to witness the sunrise over the Himalayans. The snow mountain glowed golden as the sun’s first rays touched it, and our spirits lifted higher. We laughed and played with the joy of children beneath the warmth of the morning sun.

We began our hike from Badal Danda (Middle Camp) and made our way up a hill ridge for a gradual ascent to our next destination. As we climbed higher, the vegetation transitioned from a Rhododendron moss forest to a dense, furry-shrub alpine zone. This stretch of the journey was much more relaxed than the previous hike, as we needed only to gain an elevation of 300m to reach High Camp.

Upon reaching High Camp, the highest sleeping place at an altitude of 3550m, we were rewarded with a breathtaking 360 degree view towards Annapurna South and Machapuchare dominating the skyline. At night, stargazing the constellations was a truly amazing experience, as they appeared much closer than ever before!