May 1, 2014
Annapurna Sanctuary map
IMG guide Jenni Fogle reports that today the team trekked up the narrowing valley past Hinku Cave and Deurali (where the climbing route for Hiunchuli starts). Now, for the night, they are at the “Machapuchare Base Camp†site at over 12,000 feet, ensconced in a small lodge.  This is the point where the valley splits, with the left fork continuing to Annapurna Base Camp and the right fork going up towards Annapurna 3 and Gangapurna. Tomorrow early in the morning they are planning to hike up to Annapurna Base Camp, to get the morning views and good light for photos. From the ABC site the whole amphitheater of the Annapurna peaks surround you, with the immense South Face of Annapurna 1 front and center. It is a remarkable mountain vista.
Eric Simonson