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Annapurna Sanctuary Trekking

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Good to Know
  • Duration 14 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Trip Destination Annapurna Base Camp
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at Kathmandu
  • Max. Altitude 4130
  • Trip Type Teahouse
  • Transport Private Vehicle/Tourist Bus
  • Accommodation Tea house trek

Highlights

  • Cancellation services according to company policy.
  • Easy and secure online booking system.
  • No credit card fees while booking the trek.
  • Customizable packages at the best price guaranteed.
  • NTA's experienced and licensed holder guide with fluent English speaking.
  • Three times meals during the trek.
  • Majestic view of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre and its base camp, Gangapurna Himal, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and many more.
  • Stunning view of the Tibetan plateau.
  • Beautiful and incredible flora, fauna, and diverse ecosystems.
  • Rare and endangered animals preserved in the conservation area.
  • The viewpoint for sunrise and sunset on the mountains.
  • Amazing setting for photography and videography throughout the trekking route.
  • Chance to get along with clam and beautiful natural environment.
  • Explore the lush green forests of rhododendron and oaks, settlement areas, rivers, suspension bridges, etc.
  • Experience the local lifestyle of the people along with their culture, tradition, norms, values, and lifestyle.

The Annapurna sanctuary trek is a spectacular trek to the base camp of the southern face of Annapurna I. On the trail, travelers pass through the highs and lows of the diverse Nepali landscape alongside the unique cultural influences of settlement areas.

On your 14-day trek to Annapurna, you will reach the base camp of Annapurna I (8,091m/26,545ft), which is the 10th highest mountain peak in the world at more than 8000 meters. The journey starts from the bamboo groves and rhododendrons in the lowlands and it reaches the summit amphitheater of Annapurna sanctuary through the Modi Khola gorge.

The high glacier basin you will pass during the Annapurna sanctuary trek is a wild Himalayan country site surrounded by ten of Nepal's highest peaks. This elliptical plateau is more than 4,130 meters high and is surrounded by a mountain range of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, etc of elevation more than 7,000 meters above sea level.

The narrow paths between the snow-capped mountain peaks following the Modi Khola (river) were unknown to outsiders till 1956. However, after a few encounters with the natural and artistic magnificence, trekking to the sanctuary got its height. The most prominent part of the Annapurna sanctuary is that it receives only 7 hours of sunshine a day, during the peak summer season.

It is because of the high mountain ranges and peaks surrounding the region. This unique combination of height and depth in Annapurna Sanctuary gives rise to an amazing variety of ecosystems. The slopes to the south are "covered by thick tropical forests of rhododendrons and bamboo", while the slopes to the north, in the shade of rain, have "dry cold weather like in the nearby Tibetan plateau."

The Annapurna sanctuary trek is a product of the conservation of Hinduism, Buddhism, and the ancient animism deities, as well as a treasure trove of gold and various resources left by the snakes (serpent deities). It is also reflected in the sacred settlement of the Gurung caste, which is why women are also considered untouchable as they are forbidden to bring eggs and meat into the area.

In recent times, the number of pedestrians in the sanctuary has increased, mainly because the sanctuary is the main route to the peaks of the Annapurna ranges. The Annapurna Sanctuary is now part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), which prohibits outbound travelers from collecting timber and grazing pets.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Route

Annapurna sanctuary trekking is famous among all travelers and is a unique trek toward Annapurna. The trek begins with 6 hour's drive to Pokhara and covers many popular places like Pokhara, Nayapul, Tikhedhunga / Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill, Tadapani, Sinuwa, Deurali, Annapurna Base Camp, Bamboo, Jhinu Danda, Pothana, Phedi and back to Kathmandu via Pokhara. The total walking time during the trek to Annapurna sanctuary is about 3 to 7 hours per day. Well, it depends upon the pace and altitude adaptation capacity of the travelers.

Major attractions of Annapurna sanctuary trekking

  • Views of different mountains, lakes (Phewa, Begnas, etc), Davis falls, and many more natural allures.
  • Stunning view of sunrise over the high Himalayas from the viewpoint of Poonhill and exploration of the hidden valley surrounded by the mountains.
  • Passing through the village with small shops and tea shops, rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forest, and vast and diverse mountainous landscapes.
  • Overall view of natural diversity, Himalayan ranges, and ecosystem.
  • Hinduism and Buddhism blend with residing peoples’ cultures, traditions, norms, and values.
  • Enjoy a hot spring bath during the trek.
  • Delicious and organic Nepalese food with lots of varieties.
  • Rare and conserved flora and fauna of Annapurna Conservation Area (as per Annapurna Conservation Area Project).

Major peaks are seen from the Annapurna sanctuary

Annapurna region of Nepal is covered by numerous mountain peaks and ranges of a height of more than 6,000 meters. Among which some are listed below:

  • Annapurna I: 8,091 meters
  • Annapurna II: 7,937 meters
  • Annapurna III: 7,555 meters
  • Annapurna IV: 7,524 meters
  • Khangsha Kang: 7,485 meters
  • Gangapurna: 7,454 meters
  • Annapurna South: 7,273 meters
  • Tarke Kang: 7,193 meters
  • Machhapuchhre: 6,997 meters
  • Hiunchuli: 6,441 meters

Apart from these peaks, there are so many named and unnamed high mountains that you will witness while passing through Annapurna sanctuary trekking in Nepal.

Annapurna Sanctuary trekking in Nepal is one of the most famous trekking in the world with its panoramic views of the mountains. The trials collide with the moraines and reach the world of snow with the amazing sunrise and sunset over the vast and amazing Annapurna glacier in the Annapurna Himalayas. Enjoy this evergreen trek to the sanctuary of Annapurna in Nepal with us at a reasonable cost incorporated with the modifiable itinerary.

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Itinerary

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    Today is your first day in Nepal. Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, our company representative will transfer you to the hotel. You can freshen up and rest for the day. You can also roam around Thamel streets and local markets and fares if you have enough time. Stay overnight at a luxurious 3 to 4 starred hotel in Kathmandu.

    Accommodation: Arushi Boutique Hotel / Samsara Boutique Hotel / Hotel Shambala / Hotel Crowne Imperial or similar

      After having breakfast in the morning, you will head towards Pokhara which will take about 6 hours to complete (by road). During this road trip, you will witness stunning white mountains and green hills through the corridor of the Trishuli. Upon reaching Pokhara, you will get some spare time that you can utilize by roaming around the city. Stay overnight at a 3 to 4 starred hotel in Pokhara.

      Accommodation: Hotel Lake Paradise / Hotel Lake Shore / Busy Bee Resort Pokhara / Hotel Jal Mahal or similar

        After completing morning routines and breakfast, you will drive toward Nayapul which will take approximately one hour (depending upon the road condition). From Nayapul, the trekking journey starts. En route, you will follow the southern bank of the Modi Khola river. After crossing the high suspension bridge through the woods of the subtropical valley and walking for around 2 to 3 hours more, you will reach Tikhedhunga. You can also halt at Ulleri after crossing the vertical stone steps and paved ladders. Stay overnight at Tikhedhunga or Ulleri.

        Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

          Today, you will have a moderate hike towards upper Ghorepani. After having breakfast, you will start the walk which will take around 7 hours to complete, inclusive of lunch on the way. On the route to Ghorepani, you will be accompanied by the view of Annapurna South and Himchuli through rhododendron, oak, pine, and bamboo woodland. Even though the distance is short today, the altitude is a bit higher so you will be trekking slowly. It takes around 7 hours to reach today's destination. Overnight stay at upper Ghorepani.

          Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

            Early in the morning at around 4 AM, you will head towards the Poon Hill viewpoint. The time may vary as per sunrise time. It takes around 45 to 60 minutes to reach Poonhill from upper Ghorepani. From the Poonhill viewpoint, you will enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise over the mountains. You will have around 30 to 40 minutes to cherish the view and grab memorable photographs and videos. After enjoying the sunrise, you will return to Ghorepani and have breakfast. From Ghorepani, you will climb towards Deurali through hillside and pine and rhododendron woodlands, first descending to Banthanti. From there, you will turn toward Tadapani. The total walking time of the day remains 5 to 6 hours excluding the morning walk towards Poonhill and down to Ghorepani. Stay overnight at Tadapani.

            Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

              Today's trek starts with steep downhills and takes around  6 to 7 hours to complete. You will descend steeply through lush green forest until reaching the Gurung settlement area. From here, it is a relatively quiet trek to Chomrung and the twitch of Sanctuary Valley. After crossing this village, you reach Sinuwa village where you will stay overnight.

              Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

                From Sinuwa, you trek a relatively slow path through a bamboo forest that directs a place called Bamboo. After that, the trail goes up through the deep bamboo forest and after crossing Doban you will reach the Himalayas. Now, a steady walk will take you to Deurali where you will spend the night. It takes about 6 hours to reach Deurali from Sinuwa.

                Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

                  Today the track climbs through the beautiful "Hidden Valley", and first to the Machhapuchhre base camp (which is not a base camp because mountaineering is not allowed). The plce is known as hidden valley as it is covered will hill hills and mountains from all the sides. Here, you will rest for some time and again move forward to reach Annapurna base camp. It takes around 2 hours to reach base camp Annapurna (4130 meters). Looking over the total coverage, it takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete the distance between Deurali and Annapurna base camp.

                  Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

                    Today, you will spend some time roaming the glaciers over hidden valleys and the base camp. With snow-capped peaks, cool drafts, and beautiful skies, it's a wonderful experience that will last forever. You will feel blessed to be here. After roaming around, you will endure walking through forest ways, stone-paved ways, settlement areas, and finally, reach bamboo. It will take 6 to 7 hours to reach today's destination at medium speed.

                    Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

                      Today, first of all, we traveled uphill to Kuldighar then on the way down to Chomrung. The trek route descends to Jhinu Danda. As the total distance between these two places is 8.5 kilometers, it takes about 5 hours to reach Jhinu Danda from Bamboo. Some natural hot springs are channeled into some primary pools, which can be a relaxing soak after a long day. We rest for the night.

                      Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

                        The path from Jhinu Dada to Pothana is amazingly familiar as this route has a lot to offer you, such as landscape, hills, forests, rivers, and mountains. The average distance from Jhinu Danda to Pothana is 10.7 kilometers and it takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach there. Stay overnight at Pothana.

                        Accommodation: Local tea houses / lodges / hotels

                          Today, you will walk towards Phedi through a pleasant settlement surrounded by beautiful hills which is only a 3-hour walk from Pothana. After reaching Phedi, you will rest for a while and start driving towards Pokhara. Pokhara is 18.7 kilometers away from Phedi and it takes about 45 minutes to 1-hour drive to reach Pokhara, depending upon the road condition. Explore the beauty of Pokhara in your spare time and stay overnight in Pokhara.

                          Accommodation: Hotel Lake Paradise/Hotel Lake Shore / Busy Bee Resort Pokhara / Hotel Jal Mahal or similar

                            The trip to Annapurna sanctuary ends here as you will be driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu. It takes about 6 hours to complete the distance by road. en-route you will be passing through the corridor of the Trishuli river, cherishing the high and low lands encompassing the way. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be offered a farewell dinner with a cultural program by the NTA team.

                            Note: If you want to skip the driving part, there will be the choice of a regular air flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. However, the cost will be additional.

                            Accommodation: Arushi Boutique Hotel / Samsara Boutique Hotel / Hotel Shambala / Hotel Crowne Imperial or similar

                              Today is your final day in Nepal. Our company representative will pick you up from your hotel and drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport as per your flight time. Then, you will board the flight with a final goodbye to the Nepal Trek team and Nepal.

                              Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

                              Customize Trip

                              What's Included

                              Domestic and International Airport Pickup and Drop-Off Services

                              • International Arrival Pickup
                              • International Dropoff on your Final Departure Day

                              Accommodations Services

                              • 2 Night in Kathmandu (Twin Sharing, BB Plan)
                              • 2 Night in Pokhara (Twin Sharing, BB Plan)
                              • 9 Nights in Local Tea Houses (Twin Sharing Basis)

                              Trekking Permits

                              • Local Government Entry Permit (Trek Card)
                              • Annapurna Conservation Area Pemit

                              Transportation Services

                              • Kathmandu to Pokhara by local bus/jeep
                              • Pokhara to Nayapul by local bus/jeep
                              • Phedi to Pokhara to Kathmandu by local bus/jeep

                              Food Services

                              • 12 days of Breakfast: Local and Continental Choicefrom Tea House Menu
                              • 12 days of Lunch: Simple and Light Lunch in Tea houses
                              • 12 days of Dinner: Veg and Non-Veg Meals from the local tea houses Menu

                              Guide/Porter Services

                              • English-speaking government-licensed guide (Minimum 10 Years’ Experience)
                              • All Meals for the guide or porter
                              • Insurances for Guide & Porter
                              • Well-Paid Salary as Per Government Rates
                              • Porter (Up to 20 KGs Max, Applicable with Minimum Group of 2 Person).
                              • First-Aid Kit Box Carried by Our Team

                              What's Excluded

                              • International flight tickets
                              • Nepal entry visa fee
                              • Any type of beverage (tea, coffee, water, hot water, etc.) and bar bill (alcoholic beverage)
                              • Hot shower, WiFi, any electronic charges during trekking
                              • Tips and gratuities to guides, porters, and drivers
                              • Extra overnight stay or meal in Kathmandu and Pokhara, it arrived earlier than scheduled, depart late and return early from trekking (for some reason) 
                              • Your Travel Insurance (Travel insurance is mandatory for going on an adventure trip and it should cover both medical and emergency evacuation with a minimum value of USD 100, 000.00).
                              Add-Ons & Options

                              Kathmandu to Pokhara Flight (USD 106 per person)

                              Make your trip efficient and comfortable by selecting a swift and picturesque flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara for USD 106 per person.

                              Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight (USD 106 per person)

                              From Pokhara, you can take a scenic and quick flight back to Kathmandu for only USD 106 per person.

                              Kathmandu to Pokhara by Tourist Bus (USD 15 per person)

                              For a scenic overland journey, take the tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara for USD 15 per person.

                              Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus (USD 15 per person)

                              For your return trip, the tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu is another option, costing USD 15 per person and providing a cost-effective and scenic ride.

                              Private Porter Service (USD 100 per person)

                              Add to your trekking experience by hiring a private porter for USD 100 per person, ensuring your comfort as they assist with carrying your belongings along the trek. This add-on service is best for single travelers; however, trekkers in groups can also hire their own private porter.

                              Availability & Private Trip

                              For those interested in joining a group tour, we offer a fixed departure date. However, if you prefer to choose your own date for the trip, we encourage you to explore our Book a Private Trip section, which provides the flexibility of booking on any day of your choice, as private trips offer daily availability.

                              Select a Trip DateSmall Group Departure
                                  
                              Start DateStart: TuesdayNov 12, 2024End DateEnd: MondayNov 25, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: WednesdayNov 13, 2024End DateEnd: TuesdayNov 26, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: ThursdayNov 14, 2024End DateEnd: WednesdayNov 27, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: FridayNov 15, 2024End DateEnd: ThursdayNov 28, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: SaturdayNov 16, 2024End DateEnd: FridayNov 29, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: SundayNov 17, 2024End DateEnd: SaturdayNov 30, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: MondayNov 18, 2024End DateEnd: SundayDec 01, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: TuesdayNov 19, 2024End DateEnd: MondayDec 02, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: WednesdayNov 20, 2024End DateEnd: TuesdayDec 03, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: ThursdayNov 21, 2024End DateEnd: WednesdayDec 04, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: FridayNov 22, 2024End DateEnd: ThursdayDec 05, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: SaturdayNov 23, 2024End DateEnd: FridayDec 06, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: SundayNov 24, 2024End DateEnd: SaturdayDec 07, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: MondayNov 25, 2024End DateEnd: SundayDec 08, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: TuesdayNov 26, 2024End DateEnd: MondayDec 09, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: WednesdayNov 27, 2024End DateEnd: TuesdayDec 10, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: ThursdayNov 28, 2024End DateEnd: WednesdayDec 11, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: FridayNov 29, 2024End DateEnd: ThursdayDec 12, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed
                              Start DateStart: SaturdayNov 30, 2024End DateEnd: FridayDec 13, 2024PricePriceUS $1150StatusStatusGuaranteed

                              Pick Your Suitable Date

                              Book a Private Trip
                              Private & Group Discount Price
                              1 pax
                              US$1350
                              2 - 3 pax
                              US$1150
                              4 - 8 pax
                              US$1050
                              9 - 15 pax
                              US$950
                              1 Travelers x US $1350TotalUS $1350(No additional taxes or booking fees)

                              Annapurna Sanctuary trek difficulty

                              Annapurna sanctuary trekking is considered moderate leveled trekking. This is an easier trek in the Annapurna area, but still requires a basic level of fitness as you will be trekking for about 3 to 7 hours a day. Altitude is not a big issue in this trek and so it is suitable for people who want to hike in this area without getting sick at altitude. You don't have to be proficient, but it is a good idea to have the necessary information about walking on the cold ground. All this enables you to effectively conquer all possible problems and satisfy your fantasy in the lap of the Himalayas.

                              Annapurna Sanctuary trek distance

                              Annapurna Sanctuary is 168 kilometers away from Kathmandu which is the actual covering distance of our journey but the trekking distance is 27.5 kilometers (starting from Nayapul). The driving distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu (of around 6 hours - oneway), Pokhara to Nayapul (around 1 hour), and Phedi to Pokhara (around 45 minutes to 1 hour) are also inclusive in the itinerary. Comprising all, the trek can be completed in around 12 days time frame.

                              Packing lists for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek

                              Below given is the list of gears that you have to carry during the Annapurna Sanctuary trekking in Nepal. These gear are easily available for buying or hiring in Kathmandu.

                              • Sun hat or scarf
                              • light with extra batteries
                              • Sunscreen
                              • Sunglasses with UV protection
                              • A few pairs of hiking shirts
                              • few pairs of a long-sleeved shirts
                              • Hooded rain jacket
                              • Fleece jacket
                              • Lightweight cotton pants
                              • Innerwear
                              • T-Shirt (few pairs)
                              • Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)
                              • Sweater
                              • Waterproof jacket and pants
                              • Hiking Boots
                              • Thick wool socks (Take an extra pair of thick light socks)
                              • Toiletries like shampoo, toothpaste, small towels, etc

                              These are some of the essential equipment you can carry during your hike to Annapurna sanctuary in the Nepalese Himalayas. However, apart from the above-mentioned gears, you can also pack things that are necessary for you.You can get all the detailed list of the things that you will need to carry on the trek from our blog, ABC Packing List.  But make sure to keep the back-pack as light as possible It will aid a lot in accomplishing the walking destinations easily.

                              Best season for Annapurna Sanctuary trekking

                              Autumn is the best season for Annapurna Sanctuary trekking as it offers excellent views of the Himalayas. Apart from Autumn, spring is considered to be the second-best season for this trek, since the trails are dry and the weather is mostly clear. We can also do trekking in other seasons (monsoon and winter) but it can be more difficult than the main season due to rain, insects, and cold weather.

                              Annapurna Sanctuary Trek versus Annapurna Circuit Trek

                              Both Annapurna Sanctuary Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek are the trekking routes to the Annapurna region which deliver the mind-blowing view of the Himalayas and flora and fauna around the area. In the Annapurna circuit trek, the trek is protracted to 4 districts i.e. Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, and Kaski making the full circuit around the extent. It stretches the panoramic sight of popular peaks of the world namely Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). We also witness the gigantic Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA). More than 100,000 trekkers customs their path to this route yearly. In Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, the march starts and ends in a district i.e. Kaski. It offers an opportunity to perceive the world’s tenth highest peak Annapurna from an adjacent distance. You can also acquire the vision of sunrise and sunset on the appearance of the Himalayas from the vantage point christened Ghorepani Poon Hill.

                              Testimonials
                              What Our Clients Say
                              • G
                                George BrownUnited States,July 03, 2023

                                Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: A Journey of Self-Discovery

                                The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek challenged us physically and mentally, pushing us to our limits and beyond. It was a journey of self-discovery, teaching us resilience and determination. Nepal Trek Adventure's expertise and dedication ensured our safety and comfort, enabling us to focus on introspection and personal growth. Thank you for guiding us on this transformative adventure.

                                TrustPilot
                              • A
                                Alexander JonesUnited States,June 20, 2023

                                Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: A Mesmerizing Himalayan Adventure

                                The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek took us through breathtaking landscapes, from lush forests to snow-capped peaks. The Annapurna Base Camp was a surreal experience, surrounded by towering mountains. Thanks to Nepal Trek Adventure, our journey was seamless, with experienced guides and excellent accommodations. A trek of a lifetime!

                                TrustPilot

                              Why travel with Nepal Trek Adventure?

                              Nepal Trek Adventure and Expedition is one of the best local travel companies based in Kathmandu with leading adventures.

                              • Expert Guides
                                Expert Guides

                                Our experienced guides have extensive knowledge of the local area and culture, ensuring a safe and authentic adventure.

                              • Top-notch Customer Service
                                Top-notch Customer Service

                                Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, from personalized trip planning to attentive support throughout your journey.

                              • Flexibility
                                Flexibility

                                We understand that travel plans can change, which is why we offer flexible itineraries and customizable tours to meet your specific needs and preferences.

                              • Unmatched Value
                                Unmatched Value

                                We strive to provide the best value for your money, with competitive pricing and transparent, all-inclusive pricing that eliminates hidden fees.

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