Picture at annapurna base campPicture at annapurna base camp

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 9 Days

Quick Facts
  • Trip Duration9 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Maximum Altitude 4,130 m/13,550 ft (Annapurna Base Camp)
  • Activity Trek
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu/Kathmandu
  • Group Size `1-16
  • Transportation Drive Kathmandu-Pokhara-Nayapul & Helicopter flight from ABC-Pokhara
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Why You'll Love This Trip
  • An adventurous journey to the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna
  • Enjoy a thrilling helicopter flight from the base camp to Pokhara
  • Get to see the surreal beauty of the Annapurna region as you trek through lush forests and picturesque villages
  • Explore rivers, streams, waterfalls, dense forests, rolling hills, moraines, and glaciers
  • Spend every night in villages along the trail, chit-chatting with locals and fellow trekkers
  • Get to see the daily lifestyle and rich cultural heritage of the locals along the trail
  • A perfect trek package if you are in quest of something different or wish to escape the return trek 
  • Spend a night at the Annapurna Base Camp
  • Witness gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking mountain panoramas throughout the trek

Explore the Annapurna Base Camp like never before joining our 9 days Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return. Enjoy the adventurous trail to the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world with the modern convenience of helicopter flight at the end. This remarkable trek package offers a thrilling and exciting trekking venture in the famous Annapurna region of Nepal. 

Hundreds of trekkers visit the Annapurna Base Camp every year to enjoy its surreal beauty and experience the adventure this journey offers. Away from everything, you will traverse through dense forests, rocky gorges, and moraines to reach the base camp of Mount Annapurna while spending every night in villages along the trail, chit-chatting with locals and fellow trekkers. 

Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return is a perfect ABC trek package for you if you are in quest of something different or wish to escape the return trek to the end of the trail. Once you reach Annapurna Base Camp, the trek ends. You will spend a night here, and the next morning, take an exhilarating helicopter flight back to Pokhara, enjoying heavenly aerial views of the mountains. 

Joining our Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return, you can explore one of the most sought-after parts of the Himalayas in Nepal in just 9 days. Starting from the city of Kathmandu, the trek takes you to Pokhara and further into the western Himalayan mountains. In this trek, you will explore within the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can expect encounters with wildlife and birds along the way. 

What is it like trekking to Annapurna Base Camp?

The Annapurna Base Camp trekking route meanders through alpine woodlands and quaint villages, each home to a distinct community. One of the best things about the Annapurna Base Camp helicopter return trek is the diversity it offers. From the cultural heritage of the locals to adventure and breathtaking mountain views, you will experience everything during this trek. 

The trail is dotted with temples and monasteries. You will come across many stupas and colorful prayer flags while trekking. Likewise, throughout the Annapurna Base Camp with helicopter return, you will get to witness gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), and many others are seen along the way. 

Likewise, the trekking route is packed with rivers, streams, waterfalls, dense forests, rolling hills, moraines, and glaciers. Along the route, you'll not only reach the renowned Annapurna Base Camp but also pass by the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Once you are above the Himalaya Hotel, the trail gets narrow and steep. You will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and pass by Hinku Cave. 

The trail is steep, rocky, and narrow until you reach ABC. Unlike the Everest base camp trek, you will spend a night at the Annapurna Base Camp. There are a few lodges at the base camp where trekkers can spend the night. Waking up with a spectacular view is one of the best moments of the Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return. To take the helicopter, you have to descend to Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

Benefits of the helicopter return at the end of 9 days Annapurna Base Camp trek:

  1. Time-Saving: The helicopter return allows you to complete the trek in a shorter duration, making it ideal for those with limited time.
  2. Reduced Physical Strain: Trekking downhill can be tough on your knees, but the helicopter ride alleviates this strain.
  3. Panoramic Views: The helicopter offers unrivaled views of the Himalayas, ensuring you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories.

Benefits of doing Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return with us

When you choose to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp with helicopter return with us, you can rest assured that you'll receive nothing but the finest service and the most competitive Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return cost.

Our dedicated team of professionals stands by your side, starting from the day you arrive in Kathmandu until the moment you depart. With numerous years of trekking experience, we make every aspect of your journey fantastic.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to eco-friendly travel and our deep involvement with mountain communities. When you trek with us, you're not just a traveler; you become a part of our mission to directly contribute to the betterment of these communities. So, do not wait and book your Annapurna Base Camp trek with heli return now.

Below are some of the benefits you will get by trekking with Nature Excursion:

  • Free farewell dinner
  • Free airport pickup and drop off
  • Flexible itinerary
  • Budget-friendly trekking packages
  • Duffel bag and company t-shirt (you have to return the duffel bag at the end of the trek and keep the t-shirt with yourself)
  • Fix departure
  • 24/7 support
  • No hidden costs
  • Native guides & porters

Alternative trekking packages in Nepal

We have many adventurous trekking packages in Nepal that you can check on our site. Moreover, we have a wide selection of Annapurna Base Camp trek packages. Here are some of them: ABC trek 11 days, Annapurna Base Camp budget trek, short Annapurna Base Camp, and  Annapurna Base Camp 9 days. You can customize any trek with us in Nepal. If you have any questions, you can get in touch with us freely. 

Similarly, here are some other famous treks in Nepal- Everest Gokyo Lakes trek, Langtang Gosaikunda trek, Upper Mustang trek, Annapurna Circuit trek, Manaslu Circuit trek, Khopra Danda trek, and Nar Phu Valley trek. As our bookings are open for the Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return 2024/2025 departure, book your seat early and get additional discounts by doing the trek in a group.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 9 Days pictures and video
Annapurna Base Camp Trek /ABC-2023/ Annapurna Sanctuary

Itinerary

Day1

From Kathmandu, we will drive to Pokhara in a comfortable tourist bus or van as per our group size. The highway is well-made and follows lush green hills. The views of lush hills, rivers, terraces, and waterfalls are stunning along the way. The later part of the ride also presents breathtaking mountain panoramas. Upon reaching Pokhara, the guide will drop you at the hotel. Rest and later explore the bustling Lakeside Market.

  • Max. Altitude:822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast & lunch
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:6-7 hours
Day2

Today is our first day of the trek, so we will leave Pokhara early and drive to the starting point of the trail. The drive will be short and scenic. The trek starts from Nayapul. Following lush hills and cliffsides, we will descend to Birethanti. The trail ascends via farms and follows Burundi Khola. Further, we will trek through small villages like Sudame and Hile. The trail continues through lush forests to Tikhedhunga.

 

  • Max. Altitude:1,540 m/5,052 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:1.5/2 hours drive and 3 hours trek
Day3

Following an uphill route, we will gradually ascend to Ulleri. The trail offers a stunning panorama of Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna. We may also come across birds and animals on the way. While trekking to Ulleri village from Tikhedhunga, we will climb 3,000-plus stone staircases. Further, trekking via rhododendron forests, we will pass by beautiful waterfalls and streams to Ghorepani village.

Upon reaching Ghorepani village, we get to see stunning views of snow-capped mountains like Dhampus Himal, Tukuche, Barah Sikhar, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, etc. Ghorepani is a very famous village. This village is mostly inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities.

 

  • Max. Altitude:2,860 m/9,385 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5 hours
Day4

Early in the morning, we will hike to Poon Hill. It is a popular viewpoint from where we get to witness a wonderful sunrise along with a stretching western Himalayan mountain panorama at a distance. After the hike, we will trek back to Ghorepani and have a warm breakfast. We then begin trekking towards Tadapani. The trail descends through lush forests to Deurali. From here, we will trek past Banthanti and keep walking until Tadapani arrives.

  • Max. Altitude:3,210 m/10,525 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5 hours
Day5

From Tadapanu, we will trek through Chulie village. The trail continues via lush forests of rhododendrons, pine, oak, and bamboo. Soon, we will reach Ghandruk village. It is a famous Gurung village. From here, the trail steeply descends to the Kimrong river. Crossing the river, we will trek to Chhomron village. The view of Mt. Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South are excellent along the way.

  • Max. Altitude:2,165 m/7,105 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5 hours
Day6

The trail from Chhomrong to the Himalaya Hotel is long. We will leave Chhomrong early and follow the forests of bamboo, oak, and rhododendron. Enjoying the tranquil trail and fresh air, we will trek past Khuldigar. From here, the trail descends to Bamboo, a small settlement. We will then follow a long uphill route that leads to the Himalaya Hotel. The views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains are wonderful along the way.

  • Max. Altitude:2,920 m/9,580 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:6/7 hours
Day7

Today is an epic day because we will trek from the Himalaya Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp. We will follow a narrow gorge and trek along the Modi Khola glacier valley. The trail ascends through alpine forests. On the way, we will trek past Hinku Cave, a large overhanging rock. 

Further, the trail enters Annapurna Sanctuary and passes by Machhapuchhre Base Camp. From here, we will continue trekking along a narrow steep, rocky path to Annapurna Base Camp. The mountain views are jaw-dropping along the way and from the base camp of Mt. Annapurna.

 

  • Max. Altitude:4,130 m/13,550 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:5 hours
Day8

We will wake up early to catch a gorgeous sunrise and witness the tranquil morning of the Himalayas. After breakfast, we will trek back to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, where the helicopter will come to pick us up. Enjoying the breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan mountains, we will fly back to Pokhara. The guide will drop you at the hotel. Spend the evening in Pokhara shopping and relishing the beauty of Phewa Lake.

  • Max. Altitude:822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast only
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:20 minutes
Day9

It is time to return to Kathmandu. We will leave Pokhara early in the morning and drive following the Trishuli river. The ride will be beautiful and comfortable. Once we reach Kathmandu, the guide will drop us at the hotel. The remaining day is free to relax and shop. Today is also your last day in Kathmandu. We will meet you in the late evening for a farewell dinner. 

 

  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch & farewell dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:6/7 hours
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Free airport pickup and drop-off services during the arrival and departure dates
  • Transportation costs from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Nayapul and Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • Heli cost from Annapurna Base Camp to Pokhara
  • All meals during the trek in the Himalaya (8 breakfast, 9 lunches, and 7 dinners)
  • Tea houses and lodges during the trek in the himalaya
  • Hotel in Pokhara 2 night before and after trek completion
  • Government-licensed, English-speaking, experienced Nature Excursions native guide with his meals, salary, transportation, insurance and all necessary equipment. An assistant guide group of 6 or more trekker
  • Strong Sherpa/porter to help your luggage; 1 porter for two trekker (luggage weight limit is 10 kg per trekker)
  • Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card fees
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
  • All government, local taxes and official expenses
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag as per your request (has to return after the trek completion)
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruit every day
  • Purification tablets for safe drinking water
  • The first-aid kit box carried by the guide
  • Company t-shirt
  •  Farewell dinner
Excludes
  • International flight fare
  • Nepal entry visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), 15 days: $ 25
  • All hotels and meals in Kathmandu except farewell dinner
  • All meals and hotel in pokhara due to late departure or early return from the trek than schedule itinerary
  • Personal expenses, such as- tea/coffee, hard and soft drinks, shopping, boiled water, hot bag, internet, hot shower, laundry, extra porter, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gear
  • All the cost and expenses which are not listed in the included section
  • Travel insurance, which has to cover emergencies high-altitude rescue and evacuation
  • Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, like- landslide, itinerary modifications due to safety concern, weather conditions, illness, changes of government policies and strikes
  • Tips for guide and porters

Clients Reviews

  • Reached Annapurna Base Camp -What a joy.

    What an achievement! We just completed trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp in May 2024.
    We did it with the guidance and help from our guide, Raju Gurung and his team.
    What an experience of various challenges and camaraderie among us as we trekked along to reach ABC. Such experience will stay with us for a long, long time.
    We are grateful to our knowledgeable and caring guide who led us through to ABC.
    Our guide and his team brought so much fun, laughter and inspiration to us as we trekked along.
    Thank you, Raju and team. You are a great team.

    Ks Woon
    Ks WoonMalaysiaMay 12, 2024
    TripAdvisor
  • Best views and lifetime experience made possible by the best team from Nature Excursion!

    Had a phenomenal ABC experience with Nature Excursion! The guides and porters were very experienced and will go extra miles to make sure we are doing well. Everything (accommodation, meals, logistics) was taken care of by the team. I'm very impressed with their professionalism and hospitality that warms the heart. Will definitely sign up for more treks in the future with Nature Excursion! Kudos for the exceptional service!

    SzeMin Ngoo
    SzeMin NgooMalaysiaMay 12, 2024
    TripAdvisor
Useful Information

Last-minute Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return booking

To book the last-minute Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return, you can contact us or complete the formalities through our site. Please note that last-minute bookings require full payment of the package. Once the booking is confirmed, it becomes non-refundable. 

We appreciate your understanding in this matter, as it helps us ensure a seamless and organized experience for all our trekkers. If you're already in Kathmandu, visit our office directly to book your Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return. Our team will be happy to assist you in finalizing your trip details.

Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return cost

The cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return varies depending on several factors, including the number of participants, helicopter availability, and specific preferences. Please contact our team for a personalized quote and detailed pricing information. In general, the Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return cost ranges from USD 1,800 to USD 4,500 per person. 

Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return difficulty

The Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return is not the most difficult trek in the Himalayas but requires good health and physical fitness. This is one of the averagely difficult treks, which is beginner-friendly. While the trek doesn't involve technical climbing or extreme terrain, it presents its own set of challenges.

The journey requires trekking for approximately 6 hours a day through a remote region, encompassing alpine forests, uneven cliffs, rocky gorges, and steep, rugged tracks. Therefore, having a basic level of fitness and good health is required to enjoy the trek and minimize discomfort.

Altitude Sickness

One of the significant aspects to consider on the Annapurna Base Camp trek with heli return is the elevation gain. The trek takes you from the starting point in Nayapul at an elevation of 1,070 meters (3,510 ft) and ascends to the Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 ft) above sea level. This translates to a significant change in elevation, approximately 2,700 meters (8,858 ft), which carries the risk of altitude sickness.

Follow the below tips to avoid altitude sickness while trekking to the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential at higher altitudes. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  2. Nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet and ensure you're getting enough calories to fuel your body.
  3. Rest: Proper rest and sleep will help you acclimatize. Listen to your body and allow it to recover.
  4. Medication: Consult a healthcare professional about altitude sickness medication if you have concerns.
  5. Gradual Ascent: Avoid rapid ascents and give your body time to adjust to higher altitudes.

Accommodation & meals during the Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will spend nights in three-star hotels. During trekking, you will spend nights in lodges. The Annapurna base camp trekking route is lined with lodges and teahouses to cater to trekkers. Our team will book the best lodges for you. We will try to book rooms with private washrooms, but they may not be available in all villages. The rooms will be twin-shared and offer clean bedding. 

The lodges along the ABC trail offer a diverse menu. The menu will be mostly the same in all places. Nepali dishes are commonly available, along with a few Western and Tibetan dishes. Oats, muesli, toast with jam, eggs, sausage, fruits, sandwiches, porridge, thukpa (a Tibetan noodle soup), roti with veggies, paratha, etc, are mostly available for breakfast. For lunch and dinner, there are dal bhat, pasta, momo, burgers, pizza, thukpa, thenduk, Tibetan bread, etc. 

The best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return

Be careful when planning the Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return. Picking the right route is crucial for this trek, as it also involves helicopter flight. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return. Likewise, summer/monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) are off-season for this trek. 

Spring and autumn have stable weather needed for trekking and flying in the Himalayas. The views are fantastic, and the climate is pleasant to walk 5 to 6 hours a day. The nights and mornings are chilly with warm daytime. Whereas summer/monsoon and winter have unstable weather, which delays and cancels helicopter flights. When planning treks during the offseason, such as the summer, monsoon and winter, thorough preparations are essential. 

Annapurna Base Camp helicopter return trek tips

  • Travel Insurance: While we take every precaution to ensure your safety, including the presence of a trained trekking guide and proper acclimatization, the unpredictable nature of high-altitude trekking requires a reliable travel insurance plan. It provides peace of mind for you and ensures that, in the rare event of an emergency, you have the necessary support to receive prompt medical attention and care. So, make sure to get travel insurance that covers emergency air evacuation and medical bills for this trek. 
  • Passport & Visa:  A passport with six months of validity is needed for this trek. Likewise, you can obtain a Nepali travel visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or any other entry point. The visa fee is determined by factors such as the length of your intended stay and your nationality. Please note that travelers from some countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Iraq, Ethiopia, and Afghanistan, are not eligible for an on-arrival Nepali travel visa. 
  • Luggage: For a duffel bag, you can pack up to 10 kg, and the daypack weight limit is 5 kg per trekker. You cannot exceed this weight limit. If you have any extra luggage, you can store it in the hotel's locker room for free while trekking. 
  • Charging & Internet: Lodges have separate charging stations built, where you can charge your device by paying USD 2 to USD 3. As the locals rely on solar power, charging usually costs a few bucks. The Annapurna Base Camp trek with helicopter return takes you through remote areas with varying network coverage. WiFi is available in some lodges along the trail at an additional cost of UD 3 to USD 5. For better connectivity, get a Nepali tourist sim and use data. The network may not be stable all the time.
  • Tips: Tipping is normal during trekking, climbing, and tours in Nepal. As our Annapurna Base Camp with helicopter return trek package does not cover tips for guides, porters, and drivers, make sure to use them as per your wish. If you are trekking as part of a group, it's common for group members to pool together a small amount for collective tipping. This approach is both practical and appreciated by the crew.
  • Personal Expenses: You have to budget additional money for your international flights, shopping, travel insurance, tips, etc. These expenses are not covered by our Annapurna Base Camp helicopter return trek. So, budget them wisely and keep some emergency funds aside, too. 
Equipments

HEAD

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Winter hat, insulating hat or wide-brimmed hat
  • Headlight with extra battery

FACE

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Face and body wipes
  • Hands
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Lightweight winter gloves

BODY

  • Hiking shirt
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Hooded rain jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • T-shirt (bring lightweight wool)
  • Polypropylene underwear
  • Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)
  • Sweater
  • Waterproof jacket and pant

FOOTWEAR

  • Hiking boots
  • Thick wool socks (take an extra pair of thick wool socks)

ESSENTIAL GEARS

  • Backpack or day back (size depends on whether you take a porter or not)
  • Thermal bottle
  • Water purification
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag (-20-degree sleeping bag is best in high altitude trekking)

TOILETRIES

  • Medium-size drying towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Nail clippers

PERSONAL ACCESSORIES

  • Money
  • Watch
  • Cell phone
  • Camera

EXTRA ITEMS

  • First aid kit
  • Extra password photos and photocopies of password
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return 9 Days FAQs

  • On average, helicopter rides from Pokhara to ABC can range from USD 2,500 to USD 3,500 per helicopter, accommodating up to 5 passengers.

  • The best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, mild temperatures, and clear skies, making for optimal trekking conditions. 

     

  • Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) experiences cold temperatures, particularly at night and during the winter months. In the peak trekking seasons of spring and autumn, nighttime temperatures can drop to around -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F). However, during the winter (December to February), the cold can be much more intense, with nighttime temperatures plummeting to -15°C to -20°C (5°F to -4°F ).

  • The Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return is considered moderate in difficulty. While the trek itself is manageable for individuals with a basic level of fitness, it still requires trekking for approximately 6-7 hours a day through varied terrain, including forests and uneven paths.

     

  • Yes, it's mandatory to have a guide for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. A guide can provide valuable assistance with navigation, ensure your safety, help with logistics, and offer insights into the local culture. 

     

  • Some lodges along the trekking route offer paid WiFi services, but the connection quality may vary. Be prepared for limited or no internet access during your trek. Nepali tourist sim offers better connectivity.

  • Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and stunning mountain vistas. Nestled within the Annapurna Sanctuary, it offers trekkers close-up views of towering peaks, including the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, Machapuchare, and numerous other mountains.

     

  • Yes, a beginner can undertake the Annapurna Base Camp trek with a helicopter return. The trek itself is moderate in difficulty and involves daily trekking for several hours, sometimes on uneven terrain. The helicopter return option adds convenience but does not eliminate the need for basic fitness and proper acclimatization. 

     

  • When trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Begin with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your skin. Add insulating layers like a fleece or down jacket for warmth and a waterproof and windproof outer shell to protect against rain and wind.

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