Annapurna Circuit Trek
5/5Destination | Nepal |
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Region | Everest Region |
Activity | Trekking in Nepal |
Duration | 11 Days |
Meals | 15D, 16B, 15L |
Accomodation | Hotel & Guest House |
Group size | 1-16 Persons |
Best Season | Mar-May / Sep-Dec |
Max Altitude | 5,416m/17,770ft |
Trip Code | 1008 |
Activity Per Day | 4-5 hrs walk per day |
Transportation | Private Vehicle & Flight |
Grade | Very Strenuous |
Comprehensive Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days Overview
Route and Key Stops
Start Point: Bhulbhule (after a scenic drive from Kathmandu)
Key Stops: Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang (one night in each)
Acclimatization: Manang (Day 6)
Subsequent Stops: Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi,
Thorong La Pass: Cross on Day 9 to Muktinath (5,416m/17,769ft)
Descent: Muktinath to Tatopani (via drive)
Tatopani: Famous for hot springs
Ghorepani and Poon Hill: Spectacular Himalayan views
End Point: Drive to Pokhara, then return to Kathmandu
Historical Context
Maurice André Raymond Herzog was a French mountaineer and administrator who was born in Lyon, France. He led the 1950 French Annapurna expedition that first climbed a peak over 8000m, Annapurna, in 1950, and reached the summit with Louis Lachenal.
Opened to Foreigners: 1977 postsettlement of disputes with Khampa guerillas.
Original Trek: Started from Dhumre, taking 23 days without road infrastructure.
Elevation Range
Lowest Point: 600m
Highest Point: 5,416m (Thorong La Pass)
Terrain and Difficulty Level
Climatic Zones: Rice paddies, subtropical forests, rural farmland, glacial zones.
Scenery: Panoramic views of multiple Himalayan peaks (e.g., Dhaulagiri, Annapurna IIV, Manaslu, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhare).
Unique Aspects
Cultural Insight: Learn about the Tibetan way of life in Mustang valleys.
Wildlife: Potential to see snow leopards and blue sheep in Yak Kharka.
Tatopani Hot Springs: Opportunity for a rejuvenating dip.
Logistics
Transportation: Local bus rides included; optional return to Kathmandu by Jeep or plane.
Preparation: Arrive in Kathmandu by 3 pm one day before departure for briefings and preparations.
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Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu(1350m), we'll be greeted by the invigorating scent of the Himalayan air. Our recruits will be waiting at the airport to welcome you with traditional hospitality. Once transferred to the hotel, you'll have the opportunity to unwind or venture out to explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.
After checking into the hotel and refreshing yourself, your circuit guide will brief you on the necessary formalities and the upcoming program. Depending on your arrival time, you can choose to visit nearby shrines or simply rest. The juxtaposition of ancient architecture and lively markets here offers a captivating glimpse into Nepalese culture. It's the perfect way to start your adventure in this enchanting country.
After breakfast, we'll immerse ourselves in Kathmandu's rich cultural heritage. Our journey begins at Swayambhunath, or the Monkey Temple, perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of the city. Next, we'll marvel at the unique rituals at Pashupatinath, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. Our exploration continues at Patan Durbar Square, a stunning display of medieval architecture. After a brief description of the tour,we'll catch a flight to Pokhara, the scenic gateway to the majestic Annapurna.
After meeting our trek crew, we'll drive to Nayapul, the starting point of our trek. On our first day, we'll follow a picturesque river stream, passing through charming local villages and lush green landscapes, with tantalizing glimpses of the Himalayan peaks. By evening, we'll reach Tikhedhunga, where we'll rest for the night at a cozy tea house.
After a mouth-watering mountain breakfast at the tea house, we start the day's trek. This is probably the most challenging day of the trek as we climb to higher elevations. The first part involves a steep upward hike for about two hours, followed by a more gradual ascent. Navigating the stone-paved steps is an adventurous start to the morning. The trail leads through charming villages and dense forests until we reach Ghorepani. All your efforts will be rewarded with magnificent close-up views of the Himalayas, weather permitting. We will spend the night at a guest house at 2850 meters.
We'll wake up early for a 1.5-hour hike to Poon Hill, where we'll witness the magical sunrise over ten different mountain peaks. After soaking in the breathtaking views, we'll trek back to Ghorepani for a hearty mountain breakfast. Once we're fueled up, we'll continue our trek towards Tadapani, which offers yet another stunning close-up view of the Himalayas.
Today, we'll trek through beautiful forests and charming mountain communities. Our destination is Chhomrong, a village rich in Gurung culture, where you can fully immerse yourself in the mountain way of life.
We'll trek through a lush forest, occasionally encountering deer and monkeys, as we make our way to Dovan. The soothing sound of the river, combined with the towering peaks of Mt. Fishtail and Mt. Gangapurna, will make the journey even more enjoyable. After breakfast, we'll trek up to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), passing through more stunning landscapes and enjoying breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
After breakfast, we'll trek up to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), traversing stunning landscapes and taking in breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks along the way.
We'll rise early to begin our ascent to Annapurna Base Camp, the pinnacle of our journey. Witness the sunrise painting the mountains in golden hues from ABC before retracing our steps back down to Dovan for the night.
Today, we'll journey to Jhinu, encountering both ups and downs along the way, but with a rewarding destination awaiting us. In Jhinu, you can wash away any exhaustion by indulging in the natural hot springs.
Today, we embark on a serene walk through terraced fields and along the riverside, immersing ourselves in the heartwarming sights of local villages and the refreshing ambiance of the forested areas. Our day concludes at the charming mountain village of Tolkha before we head back to Pokhara.
With the trek behind us, today is dedicated to unwinding in Pokhara. If you're seeking thrills, consider paragliding, zip-lining, bungee jumping, or experiencing the rush of ultralight flights. Alternatively, soothe your tired muscles with a relaxing spa treatment or enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the picturesque Phewa Lake.
Today marks the end of our incredible journey together. Our team will accompany you to the airport for your departure. If you're inclined to extend your stay and explore more, consider options like a jungle safari at Chitwan National Park, white-water river rafting, yoga or meditation sessions, volunteering, homestay programs, or cooking classes.
We highly recommend you to carry the basic clothing and accessories (Power Bank, Camera, Mobile Phones, Battery Charger, etc.) needed for the trek.
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