Sinuwa, situated at around 2,360 meters (7,742 feet) above sea level, is the first significant settlement within the Annapurna Sanctuary buffer zone. Nestled on a quiet ridge, this small hamlet provides a peaceful pause between the busy Chomrong and the deeper, more remote wilderness of the Modi Khola gorge. For trekkers, Sinuwa marks both a mental and physical transition—a chance to catch your breath and adjust to the altitude before continuing into the sanctuary.
A Brief History: From Forest Outpost to Trekker’s Haven
Originally, Sinuwa was likely just a resting spot for local herders and hunters moving along the steep slopes between Chomrong and Bamboo. Its growth as a trekking stop is entirely tied to the popularity of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. As more travelers began passing through, the need for safe, simple lodging became clear. In the 1990s, local families built the first cabins here, turning a quiet woodland area into a small, purpose-built stopover. Though its history is short, Sinuwa has always served the same function: a peaceful refuge on the edge of the sanctuary.
The Trek to Sinuwa: Entering the Inner Gorge
The walk from Chomrong to Sinuwa is relatively short but physically demanding. The trail begins with a steep, forested descent to the Chomrong Khola river, followed by a steady climb up stone steps lined with rhododendron and oak trees. Reaching Sinuwa feels like a small victory. The path levels out along a narrow slope, where Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) comes into view for the first time since Chomrong. The peak feels closer and more imposing, a constant reminder of the wilderness ahead.
A Change in Atmosphere
Arriving in Sinuwa brings an immediate shift in mood. The commercial bustle of Chomrong fades, replaced by the gentle sounds of the forest and the roar of the Modi Khola below. Take a break here, take some deep breaths, and get your mind ready for the road ahead. Sinuwa also serves as a smart acclimatization break, allowing trekkers to gain altitude gradually before tackling the steeper forested slopes of Bamboo and beyond.
A Place for Reflection
Sinuwa is the first place on the Sanctuary trek where the journey truly begins to feel real. Surrounded by trees and distant peaks, the modern world fades behind you. The cabins, set along the ridge, all face Machhapuchhre, which is bathed in beautiful evening light. Compared to Chomrong, the view here is quieter and more reflective, making it the perfect spot to pause and appreciate the mountains.
Where to Stay
Lodging in Sinuwa is simple but comfortable, with wooden cabins built to blend with the forest. Warm meals, a cozy resting place, and stunning views are the most important comforts here. Some recommended guesthouses include:
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Sinuwa Guest House
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Mount Annapurna Guest House
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Upper Sinuwa Bamboo Guest House
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New Sinuwa Lodge
Facilities are basic: rooms may not be heated, bathrooms are shared, and electricity is limited, usually provided by solar panels. Despite this, the atmosphere, views, and friendly hosts make Sinuwa an unforgettable stop.
In Essence
Sinuwa is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a pause, a choice to stop, enjoy a cup of tea, and take in the surrounding beauty. It is the last easy resting point before the trail leads into the thick, humid forests of Bamboo and further toward Deurali and the Sanctuary core. Spending a night here, under the watchful presence of Machhapuchhre, allows trekkers to reflect, recharge, and prepare for the magical, challenging journey that lies ahead.
