ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY TREK, NEPAL
Kathmandu . Pokhara . Annapurna Range . Kathmandu
Don't just visit the roof of the world — climb all over it. Take a 10-day trek through the remote and imposing mountains of the Annapurna Range. Begin and end the journey in Kathmandu with its colourful temples, city squares, and great shopping. With the support of a team of expert Sherpas, the challenging trails of Annapurna will reward you with a stunning combination of towering peaks and dramatic valleys. Rest and relax overnight in tea houses, where you’ll reconnect with ancient ways long forgotten by the modern world.
While the trekking is challenging, averaging 4-6 hrs walking a day on steep terrain, our Annapurna Sanctuary expedition into the Himalayas allows you to experience 'the roof of the world' without major issues associated with high altitude. The highest point on the trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 13,550'.
PRICE INCLUDES:
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Kathmandu guided tour
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English-speaking guide and full support team of porters and assistants for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek
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All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Included Meals: 1 lunch
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Note - This is a trek that requires a very good level of fitness as there are plenty of ascents and descents and the walking is strenuous. The weather can be harsh in December and January with snow and frosts. Our expedition is led by an experienced local guide who speaks English. We overnight at teahouses where our basic mountain accommodation is twin or multishare, toilet and washing facilities are rudimentary, and the food is simple but filling, usually vegetarian and cheap.
NOT INCLUDED:
International airfare; tipping; meals unless noted otherwise, personal expenses
GRACE NOTES:
Giveback: Sisterhood of Survivors Project, Kathmandu
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ITINERARY:
from $1099
per person sharing
15
days
DEPARTURES: Year round
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Day 1: Kathmandu
Transferred to your hotel on arrival. At 6pm, join a welcome meeting to get to know your fellow trekkers and meet your guide.
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Accommodation: Rama Inn Boutique
Day 2: Kathmandu
Opt to wake up with the birds and climb to the Swayambhunath Temple. Later, walk through the heart of the old city to Durbar Square, home to the palace of the Kumari Devi, considered to be a living goddess. For lunch, visit your giveback, the Sisterhood of Survivors Project, a grassroots organization that trains survivors of human-trafficking to become certified paralegals.
Enjoy free time in the afternoon. (L)
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Accommodation: Rama Inn Boutique
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Day 3: Kathmandu - Pokhara
Leaving the Kathmandu valley behind, head for the enchanting Nepalese town of Pokhara by private vehicle. Depending on our arrival time, there may be time to hire a small boat for a quick paddle on the lake for sunset.
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Accommodation: Hotel Bougainvillea
Day 4: Pokhara - Tikhedhunga
At 26,545', Annapurna 1 is one of the highest mountains in the world. Its surrounding sister mountains are equally imposing and create magnificent panoramas from any view point. This trek covers a wide variety of terrain, from lowland pastures and peaceful villages to powerful glaciers and stunning mountain views. In the rugged mountain scenery, we stay in mountain communities and meet friendly Nepali hill people as they go about their daily lives. The expedition is not only visually superb, but also a chance to learn about local cultures. Along the way, see thundering waterfalls of melted snow, cross icy rivers and high mountain passes, and reward ourselves with a soak in natural hot springs.
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Drive to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga. The trek begins with a flat hike through incredible mountain scenery, charming villages, and rhododendron forest. The fascinating culture of the Nepal countryside is the backdrop as the trek continues to Tikhedhunga.
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Accommodation: Laxmi Guest House
Day 5: Tikhedhunga - Ghorepani
Begin today with a slow ascent through woodland, with views of the Annapurna range stretching out ahead. Passing through dense forest, the route ends in Ghorepani, where there are incredible mountain views across the region.
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Accommodation: See You Guest House
Day 6: Ghorepani - Tadapani
On a morning excursion, take in the incredible mountain scenery that lines the route from Ghorepani to Poon Hill. Enjoy the views across rhododendron forests and of spectacularly colored birds during the trek. Arrive at Poon Hil to enjoy some of Nepal's best vistas.
Descending from Pooh Hill, the views of the Annapurnas continue as the hike heads for Tadapani. Views of Machhapuchhare are absolutely spectacular on a sunny day.
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Accommodation: Fishtail Lodge
Day 7: Tadapani - Chhomrong
Another day of varied ascents and descents on the way to Chhomrong. Pass through endless rhododendron forest and into farmland where the impressive terraced fields are a sight to behold. Continue upwards past waterfalls and bridges before arriving to Chhomrong.
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Accommodation: Chomoramg Guest House
Day 8: Chhomrong - Himalaya Hotel
Wake early enough to catch the sunrise over the Annapurnas before the trek begins today. There are more suspension bridges and rhododendron forests on the trek today, as well as villages and teahouses. On the way to Himalaya Hotel, the trek changes to bamboo forest and the views of Machhapuchhare are even more impressive.
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Accommodation: Himalaya Hotel
Day 9: Himalaya Hotel - Annapurna Base Camp
A tough day of trekking to reach the highest point of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek at 13,550' today. The route to Annapurna Base Camp passes through some open valleys, a reminder of all the snowfall that can occur in winter. With incredible views of the Annapurnas and, in particular, the views of Machhapuchhare, the hiking today is worth the challenge.
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Accommodation: Sanctuary Guesthouse
Day 10: Annapurna Base Camp - Bamboo
Retracing steps today, the trek returns from Annapurna Base Camp, past Machhapuchhare Base Camp, to the village of Bamboo. This is an enjoyable trek, as you anticipate the great views that are to come along the descent.
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Accommodation: Bamboo Guest House
Day 11: Bamboo - Jhinudanda
Continue the trek downhill, crossing rivers and farmland, as well as countless steps, on the way from Bamboo to Jhinudanda. It is easy to see the roofs of Jhinudanda on the walk, and this final stop for the day is well deserved.
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Accommodation: Evergreen Guest House
Day 12: Jhinudanda - Pothana
A longer day of trekking today, on the way to Pothana. The trek goes through lush forest and across several bridges over the fast-flowing river below. The rich greenery of the area, with spectacular wildflowers in the right season, makes for a rewarding day.
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Accommodation: See You Guesthouse Jhinu
Day 13: Pothana - Pokhara
The last day of the trek! Hike a short distance from Pothana to Phedi. Be sure to look back at the views of the high peaks of the Annapurnas as the trek winds through green fields and forests before joining up with the road and the vehicle transfer back to Pokhara.
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Accommodation: Hotel Bouganvillea
Day 14: Pokhara - Kathmandu
Today we return to Kathmandu where you will have free time for a well-earned celebration! Perhaps some last minute shopping, or simply wander around the beautiful old Durbar Square or visit Bodhinath. Those who wish to fly back to Kathmandu have the option of paying to do so.
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Accommodation: Rama Inn Boutique
Day 15: Kathmandu
Depart at any time...or if you are not ready to leave, how about a visit to Chitwan National Park or Everest Base Camp?