Trekking in Nepal
 

Annapurna Region

Annapurna Base Camp

North of Pokhara, Nepal's spectacular diversity appears at its finest. The deep valleys and high mountains encircling the giant Annapurna embrace a wide range of peoples and terrain, from subtropical jungle to a high, dry landscape resembling the Tibetan plateau. Annapurna is considered to be one of the most famous and popular trekking destinations in Nepal. The area is dominated by the presence of such peaks as the Annapurnas, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre. These mountains loom in the distance throughout your trek giving you a true Himalayan experience. Trekking through the lowland villages and mountain communities will expose you to the variety of different cultures of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali people. It's also among the tamest areas with excellent lodges lining the main routes. There are mainly three major routes in this region: to Muktinath, to Annapurna Sanctuary, and a circuit of the Annapurna Mountain itself. Along with these major treks Annapurna region offers you some excellent short treks such as Ghorepani/Poon Hill Trek, Panchase Trek, Royal Trek, Siklis Eco Trek, Ghalegaon Trek etc.

 

Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit attracts a relatively high number of trekkers in Nepal. As the name itself suggests, this trail goes on a circuitous route around the entire Annapurna massifs, visiting the Tibet-like country on the northern slopes of the Himalaya and the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge. Much of the trek is through lowland country, but there is one high pass, ‘Thorong La’ (5416m). The trail over the pass is steep but in good shape and not hard to follow. This is one point of the entire circuit where you really feel you are amidst the mountains. However, you should be aware of altitude sickness and be prepared for weather extremes as the Thorong La is notorious for changing its moods. The pass is usually snowbound and uncrossable from mid-December to mid-April.

The Kali Gandaki Gorge is another spell binding part of this trip. Known to be the world's deepest river gorge, the trail up to the Jomsom and Upper Mustang actually goes side by side with the river giving the lonely trekker company and groups something to talk about. Thus, the Annapurna Circuit is an extraordinary trek, truly one of the world's best. It requires at least three weeks. But due to the popularity of this route, it can sometimes tend to be crowded.


Trek Profile:

Grade : Moderate
Avg. walking per day : 6 Hrs
Maximum Altitude : 5416 Mtr
Best Seasons : Feb-May, Oct-Nov
Type of Trek  : Camping/Teahouse
Starting Point : Beshishahar
Ending Point : Pokhara

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel


Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing

A day trip around the valley, which is rich in Cultural Heritage, consisting of seven sights listed in World Heritage List.


Day 03: Drive to Beshishahar & walk to Bhulbhule (910m)

Approximately 5 hrs spectacular drive through beautiful green mountains following Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers; one can enjoy the views of Langtang, Ganesh and Manaslu mountain ranges. From Beshishahar, it is a 2.30 hrs easy walk to Bhulbhule following Marshyangdi River.


Day 04: Trek to Jagat (1340m)

Approximately 7 hrs walk through the beautiful green valley passing through some nice villages, crossing several suspension bridges and passing beautiful waterfalls.


Day 05: Trek to Dharapani (1940m)

A relatively tough day including several ups and downs, some of them being very steep. After entering Manang district from Taal, the trail follows the narrow valley up to Dharapani.


Day 06: Trek to Chame (2710m)

The trail now leads to the west from Manaslu passing through beautiful pine forest; a spectacular view of Manaslu mountain range to the east, and Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal to the south. Chame, being headquarter of the Manang district, relatively more movement can be noticed.

Day 07: Trek to Pisang (3240m)

The trail follows Marshyangdi River all day for about 5 hrs and passing through narrow and steep gorge and pine forest. Pisang is a small but very ancient village; one can visit a small monastery at the top of the village, from where one can enjoy a stunning view of Annapurna II (7938m).

Day 08: Trek to Manang (3510m)

After a 5 hrs walk through relatively flat trail and broad forested valley, there is a small airstrip and a village of about 200 houses and Barge Monastery, which is the largest in the entire district.

Day 09: Rest day for acclimatization

A necessary rest day for acclimatization and explore Manang. Manang is one of the most beautiful villages on this trek with the entire line of Annapurnas on the south; a short hiking for acclimatization (approx. 3 hrs and up to 4200m) is suggested on rest day. If time permits, a side trip to Tilicho Base Camp can be done.

Options  2 extra days (Optional)

Day 01: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Day 02: Exploration to Tilicho Lake (4919m) and back to Base Camp or Khangsar.


Day 10: Trek to Yak Kharka (4018m)

Branch away from Marshyangdi Khola; steadily climbing into quiet distinct alpine areas; overnight at Yak Kharka (4018m)


Day 11: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4420m)

Approximately 3 hrs walk crossing the Jarsang Khola, we climb to a small grassy valley and climb steadily to Thorong Phedi; another 1.30 hrs steep climb gets you to High Camp.


Day 12: Trek to Muktinath (3800m)

On this specific day, it is suggested to start the day early in the morning and cross the pass before 10:00 in the morning as the wind normally gets very wild in the afternoon and it becomes very hard to walk against the dead cold wind. It takes more or less 4.30 hrs to reach the highest point i.e. Thorong La. In peak times one can get benefit from the teahouse at the top of the pass, and enjoy some absolutely stunning high Himalayan scenery and over to the Kali Gandaki Valley through the entire Annapurna range, Mukut and Mustang Himal to the west.
From Thorong La, it is approximately 3 hrs steep downhill to Muktinath. Muktinath is a nice village with the views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri and other deserted mountains in Mustang. Muktinath is also known as a holy place for Hindu pilgrims and one can view the rare combination of earth, water and fire inside the Muktinath Temple Area.


Day 13: Trek to Marpha (2680m)

The landscape is completely different from rest of the trek with deserted mountains around and wind and dust. The trail passes through some really ancient villages such as Jharkot and Kagbeni. Marpha, also known as ‘Apple Capital’ of Nepal, is one of the stunning villages on this route because of its unique layout and neatness.


Day 14: Trek to Ghasa (2110m)

5 to 6 hrs walk through a valley dominated by Thakali tribes. The valley changes dramatically with spectacular view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Annapurna I along with the beautiful green mountains.


Day 15: Trek to Tatopani (1190m)

Gradual descend to Tatopani through valleys, fields and the beautiful Rukse Chhahara (Waterfall) and finally to relax the muscles in the hot-springs of Tatopani.


Day 16: Rest day in Tatopani


Day 17: Trek to Ghorepani (2855m)

A challenging ascent all the way up to Ghorepani, from where one can observe the best sunset view over the profile of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.


Day 18: Trek to Tikhedhunga (1577m)

Early morning hike to Poon Hill to see sunrise, and panoramic view of Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and so on. After visiting Poon Hill, one should hike back to Ghorepani. And afterwards a steep descent through rhododendron forest and fields leads one to Tikhedhunga.


Day 19: Trek to Naya Pul & drive to Pokhara

An easy 3 hrs walk through cultivated lands gets you to the ending point of the trek, Naya Pul. From Naya Pul, it is 2-hr drive to Pokhara.
Pokhara is a beautiful and clean city with Phewa Lake on the west and stunning view of Annapurna mountain range on the north.


Day 20: Free day in Pokhara


Day 21: Drive/fly back to Kathmandu


Day 22: Departure or free for personal activities


 


Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Modi Khola with Machhapuchhre

This is probably the most ideal trek: lovely, short and intense, a direct route into the heart of the Himalaya. Spectacular mountain vistas and easy access make it among the most popular treks, with more than 10,000 visitors per year. The sanctuary is a hidden pocket of meadow, moraine and glacier, ringed by magnificent sheer-walled peaks: the Annapurnas, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, Himchuli etc. The trek requires 10-14 days and begins from Pokhara, passing through lowland villages and rice terraces to mountain glaciers. The trail rises nearly 2000m in the last 8 km and one needs to plan for acclimatization. The trail is frequently slippery and there's danger of avalanches in few places. So early spring and winter trekking is unlikely. Accommodations in the lower portion, at least in Chhomrong, are deluxe; the upper stretch is understandably simple.


Trek Profile:

Grade : Moderate
Avg. walking per day : 6 Hrs
Maximum Altitude : 4130 m
Best Seasons : Feb-May, Oct-Nov
Type of Trek : Camping/Teahouse
Starting Point : Pokhara
Ending Point : Pokhara


Suggested Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel


Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing

A day trip around the valley, which is rich in Cultural Heritage, consisting of seven sights listed in World Heritage List.


Day 03: Drive to Pokhara and stay overnight

Situated at 200 km west of Kathmandu, Pokhara is a beautiful and clean city with Phewa Lake on the west and stunning view of Annapurna mountain range on the north.


Day 04: Drive to Naya Pul & trek to Tikhedhunga (1577m)


First drive for about 2 hrs to Naya Pul; then start trekking along the bank of Modi Khola. After 15 minutes short walk, reach Birethanti (1065m). Continue through the village following the Bhurungdi Khola climbing steadily up the side of the valley to Hille, finally reach Tikhedhunga.


Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2855m)


Steep ascend to Ulleri, a large village at 1920m. Then the trail continues more gently through a pleasant rhododendron forest and fields leading one to Ghorepani.


Day 06: Trek to Tadapani (2680m)


Get up early in the morning and go for hiking to Poon Hill for 1 hr to observe the sunrise and magnificent mountain view and come back to Ghorepani for breakfast and start trekking to Tadapani.


Day 07: Trek to Chhomrong (1950m)


An easy way down to Kimrung Khola for lunch, ascend again to Chhomrong Village that lies at the base of Himchuli (6441m), which also offers a close view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.


Day 08: Trek to Himalaya Hotel (2873m)


Forward to Kuldi Ghar for about 3 hrs and down to the bank of Modi River viewing thickets of bamboo at the bottom of the gorge, passing by the pasture of Tomo and Panchen.


Day 09: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)

Keeping up on the west bank of Modi River, following a more open valley at the side of Machhapuchre Base Camp leaving, the choice – either to stay or continue to Annapurna Base Camp.


Day 10: Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)


This is usually a rest day. However, the glacial moraine, charismatic mountain views can be indulged in. Excursion of one of the biggest glaciers, Annapurna Glacier, is just another charm.


Day 11: Trek to Bamboo (2310m)


Descend and follow the same way to a pleasant camp spot.


Day 12: Trek to Jhinu Danda (1760m)


Trek to Jhinu Danda and enjoy a natural hot-spring.


Day 13: Trek to Pothana (1980m)


Walk downwards to Modi River and ascend to Landrung, a beautiful Gurung village; lunch at Tolkha, and yet another easy ascent up to Deurali.


Day 14: Trek to Phedi & drive to Pokhara


3-4 hrs easy way down via Dhampus Village to Phedi, and 1 hr drive to Pokhara.


Day 15: Drive/fly back to Kathmandu


Day 16: Departure or free for personal activities




Panchase Trek
View from Panchase
A unique attribute of this mid-hill region is that you will not see many other trekkers, only the vast ethnic diversity from this remote village of Panchase. Your trip highlight will include the majestic panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu (all over 8000m). Panchase is a popular Nepalese pilgrim destination where locals pay their respects to their ancestors' souls or worship the mountain gods. In the alpine meadows, near to Panchase, there is a pond, which is so clear. It is believed that even the birds pluck out the leaves on the surface. This area is home to Gurung people, traditional members of British Gurkha Army, who as descendants of Tibet, practice their own form of Buddhism. Experience the people and culture of Nepal along the Panchase Trek.


Trek Profile:

Grade : Easy
Avg. walking per day : 6 Hrs
Maximum Altitude : 2510m
Best Seasons : Feb-May, Oct-Nov
Type of Trek : Camping/Teahouse
Starting Point : Pokhara
Ending Point : Pokhara


Suggested Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel


Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing


Day 03: Drive to Pokhara


Day 04: Cross the Phewa Lake by boat & trek to Bhumdi - 5 hrs


Day 05: Trek to Panchase (2510m) - 7 hrs


Day 06: Trek to Bhadaure (1661m) - 6 hrs


Day 07: Trek to Shyauli Bazaar (1170m) - 6 hrs


Day 08: Trek to Ghandruk (1950m) - 4 hrs


Day 09: Trek to Tolka (1859m) - 5 hrs


Day 10: Trek to Dhampus (1710m) - 5 hrs


Day 11: Trek to Phedi & drive to Pokhara


Day 12: Drive/fly to Kathmandu


Day 13: Departure or free for personal activities




Royal Trek


Royal

This is an easy, short trek that starts near Pokhara and offers good mountains views. It gained its name because Prince Charles of Great Britain trekked to this area with an entourage of 90 guests. It is a lovely trek without being strenuous with some lovely vistas of the Annapurna range.


This 6-day trek commences from Pokhara, the valley of Lakes, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna massif as also of the Manaslu Himal. This is the best trek for those who want to experience village life and striking mountain views in a relatively short period of time.


Trek Profile:

Grade : Easy
Avg. walking per day : 5 Hrs
Maximum Altitude : 2000m
Best Seasons : Feb-May, Oct-Nov
Type of Trek : Camping
Starting Point : Pokhara
Ending Point : Pokhara


Suggested Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel


Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing


Day 03: Drive/fly to Pokhara


Day 04: Pokhara to Kalikasthan (1160m) - 1 hr drive & 4 hrs trek


Day 05: Trek to Shaklung (1400m) - 6 hrs


Day 06: Trek to Chisopani (2000m)
- 6 hrs


Day 07: Trek to Begnas Lake & drive to Pokhara - 3 hrs trek & 1 hr drive


Day 08: Drive/fly to Kathmandu


Day 09: Departure or free for personal activities




Siklis Eco Trek
Siklis Village This fabulous trek takes you off the beaten path experience and through the Gurung Villages of Ghalegaon and Parche, giving an awesome cultural experience. The ridge above the village of Siklis affords marvelous views of the Eastern Annapurnas. The trail passes through the friendly villages, terraced field, alpine pastures and rhododendron forests to Parche Village. And further continues on through a shady forest of rhododendron - hung heavy with lichen and moss, wild flowers and orchids flowering on the branches above.


Good mountain views, the local people are unaccustomed to trekkers. This trek is a spectacular short trek and traverses a variety of terrain from lowland villages and rice terraces up to 3000m, as well the forest of rhododendron blooming in the springs.


Trek Profile:

Grade : Easy
Avg. walking per day : 5 Hrs
Maximum Altitude : 3056m
Best Seasons : Feb-May, Oct-Nov
Type of Trek : Camping
Starting Point : Pokhara
Ending Point : Pokhara


Suggested Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel


Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing


Day 03: Drive/fly to Pokhara


Day 04: Drive to trailhead Hemja (Milanchowk) & trek to Kharpani (1275m)


Day 05: Trek to Ghalegaon (2713m)


Day 06: Trek to Parche (1760m)


Day 07: Siklis exploration day, providing pack lunch & back to overnight at same place


Day 08: Trek to Chasu (980m)


Day 09: Trek to Kalikasthan (1160m)


Day 10: Trek to Begnas Lake & drive back to Pokhara


Day 11: Drive/fly to Kathmandu


Day 12: Departure of free for personal activities




Jomsom/Muktinath Trek


Kali Gandaki River

This major Himalayan highway follows the gorge of the Kali Gandaki River, crossing from subtropical jungle to high-altitude desert in less than one week. Mixed in the stream of international trekkers, are Hindu ascetic walking to Muktinath and jingling mule trains heading down from Tibet loaded with bales of wool. Both are reminders of the trails status as a major trade and pilgrimage route, an important cultural corridor across the Himalaya.


The end point is the ancient shrine of Muktinath (3800m), one of Nepal's holiest pilgrimage sites. There's no real village, but lodges around the lower portion (Ranipauwa) put up pilgrims and trekkers. The ancient holy site is a typically confusing blend of nature, Hindu and Buddhists beliefs. The little Newari-style pagoda to Lord Vishnu is a relatively recent addition. Muktinath has been sacred for more than 2000 years; the Hindu holy book Mahabharat mentions it as Saligram, ‘Places of the Saligram’, the black fossil stones sacred to Vishnu and found in abundance in the Kali Gandaki Valley. Its holiness stems from flicking blue flames of natural methane gas burning on water, stone and earth, and now enclosed in the shrine of Jwala Mai below the Vishnu Temple. Near the pagoda, there are 108 spouts, shaped like bulls' heads, where devout pilgrims bathe in the freezing water to purify their sins and earn spiritual liberation.


The place has ancient association for Buddhists as well. Guru Rinpoche is said to have passed through here en route to Tibet, leaving his footprints in a rock. There are many old Buddhist temples around here.

The entire trek to Muktinath remains below 3000m. One should figure at least two weeks to walk in and out, allow a few extra days for exploration, the upper region in particular, is lined with fascinating villages. Flying into Jomsom and walking back down is possible, but one should remember to acclimatize before climbing to Muktinath. One can fly from Jomsom to Pokhara.


Trek Profile:

Grade : Easy
Avg. walking per day : 5 Hrs
Maximum Altitude : 3800m
Best Seasons : Feb-May, Oct-Nov
Type of Trek : Camping/Teahouse
Starting Point : Pokhara/Jomsom
Ending Point : Jomsom/Pokhara

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel


Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing


A day trip around the valley, which is rich in Cultural Heritage, consisting of seven sights listed in World Heritage List.


Day 03: Drive to Pokhara

Situated at 200 km west of Kathmandu, Pokhara is a beautiful and clean city with Phewa Lake on the west and stunning view of Annapurna mountain range on the north.


Day 04: Drive to Naya Pul & trek to Ulleri (1920m)


Drive for about 2 hrs to Naya Pul; then start trekking along the bank of Modi Khola. Continue through the village following the northern side of Bhurungdi Khola climbing steadily up the side of the valley to Hille; finally reach Ulleri, where one will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley below and the peaks of Annapurna South and Himchuli.


Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2855m)

A gentle climb through pasture and cultivated fields; as the trail climbs higher, you walk up beside the cascading river through refreshingly cool oak and rhododendron forest all the way to Ghorepani.


Day 06: Trek to Tatopani (1190m)

The trail descends steeply to Sikha, a large village & further descends to 380m to Ghar Khola Village. After crossing suspension bridge it climbs up at Tatopani.


Day 07: Trek to Ghasa (2110m)

The trail now follows the Kali Gandaki River which flows under the deep gorge by 2200m, in between two 8000m mountaintops are only 38km apart. This trail further ascends to first Thakali village Ghasa, a paradise village for the bird specialists.


Day 08: Trek to Larjung (2570m)

A steep climb through forest takes you to Lete Khola then reach to Lete. It further continues to the east side of the Kali Gandaki to reach Larjung Village.


Day 09: Trek to Marpha (2680m)

Today’s trail cross via Tukche at 2590m and walking further through a governmental established project - produces fruits, mainly apples and vegetables for the whole region - until you get to Marpha Village.


Day 10: Trek to Kagbeni (2885m)

The trail continues along the valley side, rising gradually before crossing over a low ridge to Jomsom Village. The interesting trail along the river all the way to the medieval-looking village of Kagbeni.


Day 11: Trek to Muktinath (3800m)

From Kagbeni the path climbs steeply to re-join the direct trail leading to Khingar at 3200m. The trail climbs through a desert landscape till Jarkot Village. A further climb brings you to Muktinath.


Day 12: Trek to Jomsom (2710m)

From Muktinath you will retrace your steps to Jomsom and your trek ends at Jomsom.


Day 13: Fly to Pokhara

A 25 minutes flight to Pokhara and rest of the day in Pokhara at leisure.


Day 14: Drive/fly back to Kathmandu


Day 15: Departure or free for personal activities


Note:
This trek can also be done in reverse way i.e. Fly in to Jomsom and Trek down to Pokhara.




Ghalegaon Trek
Ghalegaon Situated in north central Nepal, Ghalegaon and Ghanpokhara are mainly Gurung settlements promoting unique village tourism and practicing community-based hospitality. Ghalegaon trek has substantially contributed to the promotion of village tourism in Nepal. As part of Nepal Himalaya Trekking Programs, Ghalegaon Trek offers the opportunity for Ghalegaon Village tour and trek. This beautiful short and relatively easy trek offers you a very good opportunity to explore the Gurung culture along with panorama of beautiful green valleys and Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges.


Trek Profile:

Grade : Easy
Avg. walking per day : 4 Hrs
Maximum Altitude : 3120m
Best Seasons : Feb-May, Oct-Nov
Type of Trek : Camping
Starting Point : Beshishahar
Ending Point : Pokhara


Suggested Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel


Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing


Day 03: Drive to Beshishahar & trek to Khudi (890m)


Day 04: Trek to Ghalegaon (2713m) - 4 hrs


Day 05: Trek to Ghanpokhara (3120m) - 1 hr


Day 06: Trek to Baglungpani (1600m) - 4 hrs


Day 07: Trek to Laxmi Bazaar (1300m) - 5 hrs


Day 08: Trek to Begnas Lake & drive to Pokhara


Day 09: Free day in Pokhara


Day 10: Drive/fly to Kathmandu


Day 11: Departure or free for personal activities




Poon Hill Trek
View from Poon Hill