Annapurna Circuit Trek

In the morning, depending on the size of your group, we will travel by car, coach, or bus. Our journey takes us along Nepal’s most popular and busy highway, heading towards the Mid-West region. We will reach Besisahar, the headquarters of the Lamjung district. From there, we will follow the Marsyangdi River upstream to Syange village, where we will stop for the night.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      1460

Starting from Syange in the morning, we will climb up to Jagat village and then continue to Chamje village. After crossing the Marsyangdi River, we will enter forested areas. The trail then follows a gradual path above the river, leading us to Tal Besi. Here, we enter the Manang district, where the air becomes cooler as we gain altitude.

Continuing our walk, we will cross the river again and enjoy a few hours of pleasant trekking, eventually reaching the charming village of Dharapani for an overnight stop. This is where the trail from Manaslu joins our path.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      1920

As the air gets cooler, we will walk through beautiful forested areas filled with tall rhododendron, pine, and fir trees. Along the way, you will enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of Manaslu, Lamjung, and Annapurna. Our path will gradually lead us into Buddhist cultural areas, passing through Bagarchap, Danaque, and Timang.

From Timang, where we might stop for lunch with mountain views, our afternoon trek will take us near the Marsyangdi River and through the cool shade of alpine woods. We will reach Chame, the headquarters and administrative town of the Manang area, for our overnight stay.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      2670

In the morning, we will continue our leisurely walk through lush woodlands filled with pine, rhododendron, and fir trees, following the river upstream. After crossing a bridge, we will climb uphill to Dukari Pokhari, where we will be rewarded with stunning views of Pisang and Chulu peaks.

From this vantage point, we will descend into the valley, heading towards Pisang village. Along the way, we will encounter rows of prayer wheels and Mani walls, leading us to our lodge in Pisang village for an overnight stop.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      3230

Enjoying the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of Pisang, Chulu, and Annapurna II and IV, we will head into a small forested area. After an hour-long climb to a ridge, we will be greeted with magnificent views of the Manang Valley and the Humde airstrip near the village.

From here, the walk becomes easier, though we will still feel the effects of the higher altitude as we gradually ascend to Braga village. A short uphill walk will take us to an old and fascinating monastery, rich with religious monuments and idols of Buddha and Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), adorned with frescoes and religious paintings on the walls and ceiling. This spot offers an amazing panorama of the Annapurna Himalaya, along with Chulu and Pisang peaks.

We will continue walking for another hour to reach the main Manang village, where we will stop for the night.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      3450

Today is a crucial rest day for acclimatization in this charming village, rich in Buddhist culture and traditions similar to those of Tibet. Take the opportunity to explore the village, which offers much of interest. You can also enjoy a short hike up a nearby hill for close-up views of the Gangapurna and Annapurna II and III icefalls and glaciers, which feed the icy lake below Manang.

In the afternoon, you are free to relax and marvel at the stunning landscapes and snow-capped peaks from the village.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      3450

After an enjoyable stay in Manang village, today’s trek is a shorter one, taking about 3-4 hours to reach Yak Kharka. This small settlement serves as a summer pasture and grazing area for yaks and other cattle.

In the morning, we will embark on a slow uphill walk along a wider trail, offering stunning views of Gangapurna, Annapurna II and III, and the Chulu peaks. After a scenic trek, we will arrive at Yak Kharka for our overnight stop and lunch.

In the afternoon, you will have time to rest and take short walks in this peaceful environment, enjoying the mountain views.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      4110

In the morning, we will enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery as we embark on another short trek. Today, we will gain more altitude as we head towards the base of the Thorong-La Pass, either at Phedi or High Camp.

Our route takes us northwest, crossing a small stream and climbing uphill. Along the way, we might spot some wildlife, such as antelopes, Himalayan Thar, or mountain goats.

We will first reach Phedi, where there are a few lodges. After a brief rest, we will tackle a steep, zig-zagging path for about an hour to reach our overnight stop at High Camp, situated at the base of the Thorong-La Pass.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      4600

Today marks the highlight of our adventure as we tackle the challenging ascent from one ridge to another, which can be quite strenuous due to the high altitude. As we climb, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Our route will eventually lead us to the top of Thorong-La Pass, the highest point of our trek.

At the pass, festooned with thousands of Buddhist prayer flags and a signboard indicating the height and name of Thorong-La, we will enjoy incredible views of the Dhaulagiri, Damodar, and Mustang Himal ranges, as well as the Annapurna and Chulu peaks. We will take some time to rest and soak in the scenery before beginning our descent.

Our downhill trek will lead us to the sacred site of Muktinath, regarded as one of the holiest pilgrimage places for Hindus and also significant for some Buddhists. Here, you can visit the temple premises with its 108 water spouts, which are one of the tributaries and sources of the Kaligandaki River. The name Muktinath comes from an ancient Sanskrit word meaning “place of liberation or freedom.” This high-altitude spot offers grand views of the Dhaulagiri mountain range.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      3800

Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani 4-5 hrs.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      1189

After a pleasant and enjoyable stay at Tatopani, where you can relax in the hot springs, our morning walk continues along a winding trail for about an hour. We will then begin an uphill climb on steep terraced hillsides, dotted with farms and villages.

After this steep section, the path becomes more gradual as we make our way to Chitre. From there, a one-hour climb will bring us to Ghorepani village. Here, you will be greeted with fantastic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Vara-Shikar (Annapurna Fang).

Ghorepani is located on a high spot within a beautiful forested area and is inhabited by the Pun/Magar tribal people.

Accommodation        Elevation

Tea House/Lodge      2750

On our last day of trekking the Annapurna Circuit, we will descend mostly downhill, passing through scattered farm villages and enjoying views of waterfalls along the way. We will eventually reach the charming village of Banthati by the Modi River.

After a short break in Banthati, we will take an overland drive for a few hours to the beautiful city of Pokhara. Here, we will spend the night by the serene Phewa Lake. Pokhara is a popular tourist destination, blessed with natural beauty and picturesque scenery of mountains, hills, and lakes.

Accommodation        Elevation

Hotel/Resort              820

In the morning, we will transfer you into vehicles, either by car, coach, or tourist bus, depending on the size of the group. Our overland journey back to Kathmandu will offer scenic views of mountains, lush hills, and farm fields, passing through charming villages and towns.

As we approach Kathmandu, you will notice the transition back to the hustle and bustle of city life. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your respective hotels, where you will have time for individual activities and shopping for souvenirs.

Alternatively, you can opt for a 35-minute scenic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Accommodation        Elevation

Hotel/Resort              1350

On your last day in the beautiful Himalayan country, we will transfer you to Kathmandu International Airport for your international flight. Whether you are heading home or to your next destination, we hope you leave with wonderful memories of your Annapurna Circuit trek, made even more special by the excellent service of Tramping Himalaya Adventures. Safe travels!

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, having the right clothing and equipment is crucial. We’ve compiled a list of essential items for your personal use during your Everest Base Camp adventure with us.

Footwear:

Running Shoes (1 pair): Comfortable shoes for casual wear on lighter walking days.
Light Hiking Boots (1 pair): Sturdy boots for the trail. Wear with a combination of liner and wool socks for warmth and comfort. Choose water-repellent boots with good ankle support.

Optional:

Hiking Gaiters (1 pair): Keep rocks and debris out of your shoes and offer additional protection from the elements.

Socks:

Wool Socks (3 pairs): Heavyweight wool socks worn over liner socks for warmth and blister prevention. Ensure a good fit inside your boots.
Liner Socks (3 pairs): Thin wool, nylon, or Capilene liner socks worn next to the skin to wick away moisture and reduce blisters.

Clothing:

Lightweight Long Underwear (2 sets – tops & bottoms): Capilene, synthetic, or wool for warmth and breathability. Opt for lightweight options for versatility (single layer in warm weather, double layer in cold). Consider zip-neck tops for better ventilation. Choose one white set for sun protection and one dark set for faster drying.
Light Trekking Pants (1 pair): Lightweight, breathable nylon pants ideal for trekking. They dry quickly and offer sun protection. Look for convertible pants with zip-off legs for added versatility.
T-Shirts (a few): Lightweight, moisture-wicking crew-neck t-shirts made from synthetic materials.
Bandana (1): Multifunctional for various uses, including face masks.

Jackets:

Synthetic/Soft Shell Jacket (1): Full-zip jacket for easy layering and ventilation.
Insulated Down Jacket (Medium to heavy weight with hood): Provides warmth during colder temperatures.

Waterproof Layers:

Hard Shell Jacket with Hood (1): Breathable and waterproof shell jacket with a full front zipper and underarm zips for protection from wind and rain.
Hard Shell Pants (1 pair): Waterproof and breathable pants with side zippers to fit over boots.

Handwear:

Fleece/Soft Shell Gloves (1 pair): Provide warmth, especially when wet.
Shell Gloves with Insulation (1 pair): Offer additional warmth in colder conditions.

Headwear:

Headlamp & Spare Batteries (1): Essential for nighttime use.
Sun Hat (1): Protects your face and eyes from the intense sun at high altitudes. Baseball hats work well.
Buff (recommended): Provides dust protection and reduces the risk of infection.

Glacier Glasses (Essential):

100% UV and IR protection: High-quality lenses designed for mountain use with side covers, leashes, and a nose guard. Maximum 8% light transmission.
Spare Glasses (recommended): If you wear contact lenses, pack a spare pair of glasses with photo-gray lenses for added protection.

Personal Equipment:

Sleeping Bag (provided): High-quality sleeping bag with a hood rated to at least -10°C (Down is lighter but more expensive than synthetic options).
Daypack (3,000 cu. in. max): Large enough to carry water bottles, camera, lunch, and extra clothing.

Optional Items:

Water Treatment Tablets: Iodine or Chloride Dioxide tablets for water purification.
Water Bottles (2): Wide-mouth bottles with a minimum capacity of 1 liter each. (Water bladders are not recommended due to freezing and filling difficulties).
Pee Bottle: Convenient for avoiding bathroom breaks on the trail.
Pee Funnel for Women (Optional): Allows for easier urination without extensive undressing.
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, 2 tubes): Ensure it’s no older than 6 months as effectiveness decreases over time.
Hand/Foot Warmers (Optional): Ideal for those who tend to get cold easily.
Lip Balm (SPF 30 or higher, 2 sticks): Protect your lips from the sun and wind. Ensure it’s no older than 6 months.
MP3 Player (Optional): Flash memory only, as hard drives don’t function well at high altitudes. Chargers can be used at lodges along the way.

Travel:

Large Duffle Bag with Travel Locks (1): For transporting and storing your gear.
Plastic Bags (5): Line your pack and keep.

Preparing for the Everest Base Camp Trek: A Comprehensive Guide

As you plan your Himalayan adventure, consider three essential components of preparation: aerobic fitness, strength, and mental readiness. Let’s delve into each aspect:

1. Aerobic Conditioning: Trekking at high altitudes means thinner air—up to 50% less oxygen than at sea level. Good aerobic fitness helps minimize the potential effects of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). To prepare, engage in activities like hiking for at least two hours daily with some weight on your back. Running, cycling (outdoors or stationary), Nordic track workouts, hill climbing, or sustained aerobic exercises elevate your heart rate and build endurance.

2. Strength Training: Strengthening your muscles is crucial for tackling the challenging terrain. Focus on leg muscles (quads, hamstrings, and calves) as well as core strength. Squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises are beneficial. Don’t forget to work on your upper body too, as you’ll need it for balance and stability during the trek.

3. Mental Preparedness: Trekking in the Himalayas is both physically demanding and mentally rewarding. While mishaps are usually minor, be prepared for unexpected challenges. You might experience mild illness, disrupted sleep, or find the trek pace too fast or slow. Embrace these moments as part of the journey. Remember, reaching Everest Base Camp isn’t the sole goal; finding joy and fulfillment in every experience matters.

Before embarking on your Nepal adventure:
– Obtain a medical fitness certificate (required by Tramping Himalaya Adventures).
– Consult your doctor and follow their recommendations.
– Maintain a positive mindset throughout the trip.
– Embrace the wonders of Nepal, whether or not you reach Everest Base Camp.

Adventure awaits—prepare well and savor every moment!

Your Trek Leader: Ensuring a Smooth Adventure

Your Trek Leader plays a crucial role in ensuring every aspect of your trip runs smoothly. Here’s what you can expect:

– Local Knowledge: Your Trek Leader shares valuable insights about the region, recommends activities during free time, and coordinates day-to-day logistics. Occasionally, unforeseen situations may arise, and your understanding is appreciated.

– Professional Team: We are a well-established adventure company. Our professional trek leaders are fluent in English, and some are multilingual. Crew members have basic communication skills. We invest in staff training to enhance efficiency.

– Cultural Insights: Our guides intimately understand local customs and castes along the trails. They’ll share cultural insights not found in guidebooks. You’ll have the chance to learn Nepali phrases and immerse yourself in the culture during your trek.

Choose Mount Adventure Nepal for an enriching and well-guided experience!

Mount Adventure Nepal: Your Gateway to Himalayan Exploration

With over 15 years of experience, Mount Adventure Nepal is your trusted partner for responsible travel in the Himalayas. We specialize in small-group adventure expeditions to Nepal. Our unrivaled itineraries are a testament to our deep understanding of the region.

What Sets Us Apart:
– Experienced Local Leaders: All our treks are led by highly experienced local guides who prioritize safe acclimatization at every stage of your journey.
– Diverse Adventures: Whether you’re a hiker, mountaineer, or climber, our itineraries cater to your adventurous spirit.
– World-Class Service: As one of the world’s leading adventure travel companies, we offer hundreds of itineraries for small-group active adventures, expeditions, walking tours, and cultural journeys.
– Decades of Excellence: Since 1992, we’ve been organizing trekking and adventure travel holidays and vacations.
– Flexible Departures: Each itinerary features several scheduled departure dates throughout the year.
– Transparent Pricing: Our all-inclusive packages come with no hidden extras. Expect longer, creative itineraries and quality ground services.
– High Expectations Met: We attract travelers who seek exceptional travel experiences.

Join us on an unforgettable Himalayan adventure!

At Mount Adventure Nepal, we specialize in operating at high altitudes. Our treks are meticulously designed to ensure gradual height gain over several days, allowing for realistic acclimatization. While it’s impossible to predict who might suffer from altitude-related issues, most people experience minimal effects when ascending slowly.

As a precautionary measure, we offer the ‘Gamow Bag’ on a hire basis. However, there are no shortcuts to acclimatization—it takes time. For all trips to altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters, we carry essential medicines for treating altitude illness. Our experienced leaders are trained to recognize symptoms and administer appropriate care.

Your safety and well-being are our top priorities!

Purpose: Diamox helps you breathe faster, aiding oxygen metabolism and minimizing altitude-related symptoms.
Timing: Start taking Diamox 24 hours before ascending to higher altitudes and continue for at least five days.
Recommended Dosage: The Himalayan Rescue Association suggests 125 mg twice a day (morning and night). Some individuals may need 250 mg, but research shows no significant difference for most people with the lower dose.
Possible Side Effects: These include tingling of lips and fingertips, blurred vision, and altered taste. The 125 mg dose may reduce side effects.
Allergies: Avoid Diamox if you’re allergic to sulfa drugs. It can cause severe reactions even in those without a previous history of sulfa allergies.
Precaution: Consider a trial course of Diamox before remote treks to assess any potential allergic reactions.
Remember to consult your physician for a prescription and personalized advice.

When embarking on Himalayan adventures, proper insurance is essential. Here’s what you need to know:

– Specialist Coverage: Obtain travel insurance that specifically covers hazardous activities. This includes helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, injury, death, lost baggage, theft, liability, and medical treatment expenses.

– Comprehensive Protection: Ensure your policy covers all activities you’ll undertake in Nepal, such as trekking and climbing.

– Helicopter Evacuation: If injured and unable to travel, you can request a rescue helicopter from remote areas—but only if you can prove you can pay for it.

– Mount Adventure Nepal: Mount Adventure Nepal has an agreement in Kathmandu that guarantees payment for helicopter evacuations. They pay a cash deposit to the helicopter operator and collect the funds from you after rescue.

– Specific Coverage: Verify that your policy explicitly covers mountaineering or alpinism to avoid complications during claims.

Prioritize safety and enjoy your Himalayan journey!

Nepal’s climate is as diverse as its geography. Here are some key points:

– Terai Region: The low-lying Terai experiences a sub-tropical monsoonal climate.
– Himalayan Foothills: The best time to explore the Himalayan foothills (where most of our treks occur) is during the cool, dry season from September to May.
– Traditional Trekking Season: Late September to May is the traditional trekking season, with October and November offering the best weather.
– Spring: Spring is also popular, with warmer temperatures and blooming spring flowers and rhododendrons.
– Visibility and Weather: Expect good visibility, pleasantly warm days, cold nights, and possible snow above 3,000 meters.
– Everest Base Camp Trek: Temperatures during the Everest Base Camp trek vary by altitude and time of day. Nights up to 3,500 meters are cool (around 5°C), while daytime temperatures can reach 25°C. At higher altitudes, temperatures range from about 20°C to -15°C.

Nepal Visa Information: A Guide for Travelers

– Visa Requirement: All foreigners (except Indian nationals) need a visa for entry into Nepal.
– Responsibility: Obtaining the entry visa is your responsibility.
– Visa Options:
– Obtain the visa from the Nepalese embassy before travel.
– Get it on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various international border crossings.
– Simplify the Process:
– Bring a passport-sized photograph for immigration.
– Ensure you have the correct USD cash (bring it in your hand luggage).
– Permits and Photos:
– Nepal trekking trips require additional photos for various permits.
– Bring a total of 3 photographs.
– Application Form: If you plan to get your visa in your home country, download the application form from the website: [Nepal Immigration](http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np)

In Nepal, permits and fees are essential for accessing certain areas, including World Heritage sites, national parks, and restricted regions for climbing. Rest assured that all trip prices include the relevant permit and entrance fees. If any additional permit fees are required, we’ll inform you before you make a booking with us.

Health and Safety Precautions for Your Nepal Adventure

– Consult a Doctor: Before planning your holiday, consult a doctor. Obtain professional advice from a travel clinic or your local GP regarding vaccinations required for Nepal. Your doctor will provide current inoculation recommendations.

– Inform Us: If a doctor advises against travel or indicates any inconvenience, please inform us. Your safety is our priority.

– Technical Experience Not Required: On all trekking and exploratory trips, technical experience is not necessary. Hiking/camping experience is advantageous, but the most critical factors are a positive attitude and determination.

– Hygiene and Medical Preparedness: We strictly maintain hygiene standards for food during treks. Our extensive medical kits allow us to address health issues promptly. In case of serious illness, we can evacuate group members by helicopter.

– First Aid Training: Our trekking guides and Sherpa helpers undergo regular first aid courses.

Join us for a safe and memorable adventure in Nepal!

In Kathmandu, we ensure a comfortable stay and a relaxed environment by using deluxe hotels before and after your adventure. Rooms are typically twin-share, but depending on group size and room availability, triple-share options may be offered upon request. For solo travelers, a single supplement room is available at an additional cost (on request, the single supplement charge is US$200).
While trekking in the Everest region, accommodation is in guesthouses. These basic structures generally have shared facilities but offer a comfortable stay. Some guesthouses have showers, while others provide private facilities for sponge baths when showers are unavailable.