Challenge yourself to trek the mighty Annapurna Circuit in Nepal.
Trek through the incredible Annapurna region and be awed by the Nepalese Himalayas. These snow-capped peaks, mist-shrouded valleys, isolated communities and remote monasteries will inspire those with a bold spirit and a yearning for a definitive nature experience. Reach altitudes of more than 5000 metres, discover the ancestral traditions of the local people and immerse yourself completely in the spectacular mountain wilderness of the Annapurna Circuit. This is a challenging trip, but the sense of accomplishment will leave even the most seasoned trekker with some unforgettable memories.
Why you’ll love this trip
- Ascend to the clouds and reach an altitude of 5416 metres as you cross the Thorung La Pass along the Annapurna Circuit. Testing your mind and body, this is one hell of an accomplishment.
- Uncover a different side of the Himalayas, trekking past terraced rice fields, oak and rhododendron forests, there’s a diverse array of nature that awaits in the Annapurna region.
- Learn about life in Nepalese mountain communities, get to know locals and meet other trekkers while you stay in teahouses in the small communities along the way.
- Discover Nepal’s compact capital in Kathmandu. With a limited amount of time spent here to discover its bazaars and temples, why not extend your stay beforehand to get a real feel of Nepalese culture.
- Spend time in the peaceful haven of Pokhara after your trek has finished. Relax with your small group on the banks of Phewa Lake and take in the mountainous surrounds that you have conquered!
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu
Day 2: Ngadi
At 8091 m, Annapurna I is one of the highest mountains in the world. Its surrounding sister mountains are equally imposing, creating magnificent panoramas from any viewpoint. Throughout this trip’s trekking you’ll come across isolated mountain communities, each with different ancestral customs and traditions, meaning a visually and culturally memorable expedition. You’ll meet warm and welcoming locals herding yaks and goats on the grassy pastures and visit their monasteries and temples, pass waterfalls of melted snow, cross icy rivers, walk along broad plains and hike up high mountain passes.
Driving duration: Approximately 5 hours
Trek duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
Elevation: 1400 metres
Day 3: Chamje (1430m / 4691ft)
Trek duration: Approximately 6 hours
Day 4: Dharapani (2100m / 6889ft)
Trek duration: Approximately 7 hours
Day 5: Chame (2710m / 8891ft)
Trek duration: Approximately 6 hours
Day 6: Pisang (3300m / 10826ft)
Trek duration: Approximately 6 hours
Day 7: Manang (3540m / 11614ft)
Trek duration: Approximately 6 hours
Day 8: Manang (3540m / 11614ft)
Day 9: Yak Kharka (4018m / 13182ft)
Trek distance: 10 kilometres
Trek duration: Approximately 5 hours
Day 10: Phedi (4450m / 14599ft)
Trek duration: Approximately 5 hours
Day 11: Muktinath (3800m / 12467ft)
Trek Distance: Approximately 15km
Trek duration: Approximately 8-9 hours
Day 12: Jomsom (2800m / 9186ft)
Trek duration: Approximately 5 hours
Total Drive Distance : 45 mins drive on public bus. No seatbelts
Day 13: Pokhara
Total Drive Distance: Approx. 154km (off road, Approx. 8hrs)
Pokhara is a peaceful lakeside location which rests beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna Range. Pokhara is part of a once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet. This is the land of Magars and Gurungs, hardworking farmers and valorous warriors who have earned worldwide fame as Gurkha soldiers. The Thakalis, another important ethnic group here, are known for their entrepreneurship. Upon arrival you might like to sip on a cold brew and gaze up at the dramatic pass that you have just conquered. There are plenty of lakeside cafes where you can enjoy international cuisine, while the main street is full of shops and stalls selling a wide range of Nepali and Tibetan souvenirs. Your simple hotel in Pokhara is set 100 m back from Phewa Lake and with a back-drop of Machhapuchhare rising beyond. It has twin-bedded rooms with attached bath and hot shower facilities.
Day 14: Pokhara
Day 15: Pokhara
INT – HNXR
Images Courtesy of Intrepid Group