Visual journey of Annapurna I, 8091M Expedition - NAMAS ADVENTURE
Annapurna I, camp 1.
Route from camp 1 to Summit of Annapurna 1
Early reminder - Click to enlarge on images
Annapurna I, rising to 8,091 meters, is the 10th highest mountain on Earth and the highest peak in the Annapurna massif. Known for its extreme difficulty and high fatality rate, Annapurna I has earned a reputation as the most dangerous 8000-meter peak in the world. This mountain is not for the faint-hearted—it’s a true test of survival, skill, and endurance.
Unlike Everest or Manaslu, very few climbers attempt Annapurna I each year, making it an excellent objective for those seeking a quieter, more technical 8000-meter expedition. With the right high-altitude experience, Annapurna I is a dream peak for climbers wanting to challenge themselves on one of the boldest climbs in the Himalayas.
Start Point: Kathmandu
Acclimatization Trek: Mardi Himal trek up to 4,000M, highpoint
Base Camp Access: After acclimatization, we take a helicopter from Pokhara to Annapurna I North Base Camp (4,090M)—a 25-minute flight offering stunning aerial views and a remote, peaceful entry to the mountain.
Acclimatisation trek to Mardi Himal, high point 4000M
Dhaulagiri seen on our approach to Annapurna North BC
Annapurna 1 North Base camp, 4090M
Annapurna I Base Camp 4090M
Sitting just above the stunning torquiest Lake, Annapurna I Base Camp offers a remote and breathtaking staging ground for one of the world’s most demanding climbs. With its serene setting and strategic altitude, it’s the perfect place to launch your expedition into the heart of the Himalayas.
Route to Camp 1 5100M (4-6 hours)
The approach to Camp 1 (5,100M) on Annapurna I begins with a rappel down a steep moraine, followed by a glacier traverse across crevassed terrain. From there, climbers ascend the rocky ridge line to the left of the glacier, navigating technical sections to reach the exposed and dry Camp 1 at 5100M.
Route to camp 1
Camp 1 at Ananpurna 1, tucked just by the giant glaciers
Route to Camp 2 5600M - 5600M(5- 6 hours)
From Camp 1, the route to Camp 2 begins with a crossing of glacier fields, followed by an ascent on black rocky terrain. The climb gradually shifts from a steep rocky incline to sections of hard blue ice, demanding technical precision and stamina.
Although this is the shortest section between camps.
From camp 1, overseeing the rest of the climbing route.
Annapurna 1, Camp 2, 5500M
camp 2, over gazing over the route to camp 3.
Camp 2 is set amidst dramatic glacier formations, offering a surreal and rugged high-altitude environment. Its location has been strategically chosen to avoid major avalanche zones, making it a relatively safer resting point compared to other exposed areas.
However, the camp sits on a slightly slanted slope, and if multiple teams are on the mountain, finding a flat, secure tent platform can be a challenge. Proper planning and early positioning are key to securing a good campsite here.
camp 2, 5500M
Route to Camp 3 (8 - 10 hours)
Camp 2 to Camp 3 on Annapurna I is where the mountain truly reveals its unforgiving nature — a section often described as the most dangerous and technically demanding part of the entire climb.
This stretch is a steep, mixed terrain gauntlet — with unstable rock, avalanche-prone slopes, and sheer vertical ice walls. The route begins with loose rock underfoot, demanding full concentration with every step. But the real challenge lies ahead: a narrow, icy couloir guarded by a steep ice wall — the first major crux of the climb.
This couloir is notorious. Avalanches funnel directly through this choke point, and there is no alternative route. It's a place where you move with urgency and precision, hoping the mountain stays still while you pass. Climbers begin before dawn, when the ice is most stable and avalanche risk is at its lowest. Every move must be calculated. Every moment is intense.
But once you make it to Camp 3, perched precariously above the chaos below, there’s a powerful sense of relief. You’ve overcome the most dangerous, vertical, and technical section of Annapurna I. And from here, climbers say, if your body holds, your chances of reaching the summit are real.
It’s a section that humbles even the most seasoned mountaineers — a passage where courage meets caution, and where the line between fear and focus is razor thin.
This is the unavoidable avalanche zone — a notorious section where the route cuts directly through the heart of the danger. There’s no alternative path; every climber must pass through this narrow couloir where avalanches have a direct line of fire.
Annapurna I, arrival Camp 3 6500M
Cracked serac above camp 3. You just pray this does not fall.
Route to the Summit of Annapurna I 7525M (12 - 15 hours)
The climb from Camp 3 to the summit is a steady uphill push with fewer technical sections compared to the lower route, but it still demands endurance, focus, and determination.
An early alpine start marks the beginning of summit day — a long, rewarding journey toward your ultimate goal. Expect a full day on your feet, moving at altitude, carefully pacing yourself, and keeping a close watch on weather and wind conditions.
Most climbers allow for a 12–15 hour window to reach the summit, followed by a 5–7 hour descent back to Camp 3. It's a long, committed day, but for those prepared, it offers one of the most incredible and fulfilling experiences in high-altitude mountaineering.
Annapurna 1, summit
The summit of Annapurna I lies just beyond the final steep couloir—a last, focused push before reaching the top of one of the world’s most formidable peaks. The summit itself is small and sharp, with space for only one or two climbers at a time, making the moment even more intimate and powerful.
From the top, the panoramic view is absolutely breathtaking. You’re surrounded by the entire Annapurna range—Annapurna South, Annapurna II, III, IV, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, and the unmistakable silhouette of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) standing proudly in the distance.
It’s a summit earned through grit and resolve—and one that rewards you with some of the most spectacular mountain vistas on Earth.
Ready to turn your dream of summiting Annapurna I into reality?
Join us for our Spring Annapurna I expeditions, operated annually with expert guidance and full expedition support.
For more details on Annapurna I, Annapurna IV, or any of our other high-altitude climbs, visit our website or get in touch directly:
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +1 347-476-9547
📧 Email: bookings@namasadventure.com
Let’s plan your next big mountain goal—because your story deserves a summit. 🏔️
Images by - Bisesh Gurung (Chief Adventurer)
Namas Adventure Team
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