Trek Around Annapurna

Discover the Annapurna Trek, a mesmerizing journey through the heart of Nepal's Himalayas. This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, taking travelers to the base of the magnificent Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain).

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Good To Know

  • Duration 13 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 4130 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

Trek Around Annapurna is a mesmerizing journey through Nepal’s Himalayas which offers both natural beauty and cultural immersion. It leads travelers to the base of the Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks. As you trek, you’ll pass through lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and terraced rice fields. The stunning mountain views will captivate you along the way. Additionally, charming villages like Chomrong and Ghandruk offer glimpses into Gurung hospitality. You can also enjoy traditional Nepali food there. After a day’s hike, don’t miss the chance to relax in natural hot springs.

The Trek Around Annapurna also provides a unique chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. Traversing through the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), trekkers will encounter diverse Himalayan flora and fauna. This trek is not just an adventure but a spiritual experience, with sacred sites and vibrant ethnic diversity enriching the journey. Whether photographing the breathtaking landscapes, enjoying nature walks, or learning about eco-tourism practices, this trek promises a memorable and enriching experience. Ideal for both seasoned trekkers and beginners, the Annapurna Sanctuary Cultural Trek offers a glimpse into the pristine beauty and cultural wealth of Nepal.

For an unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas, choose the Annapurna Sanctuary Cultural Trek. Experience breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures in Nepal. Discover serene beauty and more by visiting Kalpa Holidays. Find detailed information and personalized itineraries to start planning your trek today.

Trek Around Annapurna Highlights

  •  Explore Poon Hill located in the Annapurna region.
  • Explore Gurung and Magar ethnic communities.
  • Hike through one of the world’s largest rhododendron forests
  • Jhinu hot springs
  • Experience a stunning sunrise from the summit of Poon Hill.

Trek around Annapurna

Best time for Trek Around Annapurna

The best times to trek around Annapurna are spring and autumn. These seasons offer favorable weather, clear skies, and ideal temperatures.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is among the most popular times to Trek Around the Annapurna Region. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season. The Annapurna trekking trail remains more crowded than other treks in the Annapurna Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek Around Annapurna. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable, with clear skies and low humidity. Temperatures are pleasant, like spring. Daytime temps range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations. It is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, so the trail is more crowded than other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best times for trekking around Annapurna, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy views. However, temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations. Trails may be icy, and some teahouses might be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. Clouds and rain can also block mountain views.

Spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Annapurna Region. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Greetings and welcome to Nepal! This is a land of towering Himalayan peaks, lush greenery, rich cultural diversity, and stunning valleys. Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from the Kalpa Holidays will meet you, aligning with your flight schedule, and they will assist in transferring you to your hotel. After you’ve checked in, a brief overview of your upcoming trip will be provided. If you wish to explore the city on foot, feel free to inquire with your guide, who will do their best to organize a suitable walking excursion based on your arrival time.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1970 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will embark on a short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes 25 minutes. From Pokhara, we will drive 2 to 3 hours to Hile, located at 1948 meters. As we start our trek, the trail leads us to Ulleri, unfolding over a 3 to 4-hour trek. Upon arrival, we will explore the village, where we will spend a night at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2874 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani. From Ulleri, we will gradually climb through the agricultural land and pass the oak forest. The trail guides us through beautiful villages, lush rhododendron forests, and glimpses of the breathtaking Himalayan panorama. Ghorepani is known for its panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Beyond the physical challenges, this trek promises not only captivating landscapes but also cultural diversity. After 4 to 5 hours of trekking, we will reach Ghorepani. Overnight,  we will stay at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3210 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Embark on the Gorepani to Tadapani trek, which takes around 5 to 6 hours. On the way, we will stop at Poonhill, known for its panoramic views of the Annapurna Ranges, from where we can see the changing colors reflecting off the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Tukuche, etc. After taking some pictures and videos, we will head towards the Tadapani. Overnight we will stay at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2170 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Following breakfast, we will trek to Chhomrong today. Our trek starts with a slight descent through the rhododendron forests. after approximately two hours downhill along the riverside, we will cross the suspension bridge, and within a few minutes of walking, we will reach Goljung. We will take a short break at Goljung Village for lunch and then walk towards Chhomrong, where we will spend the night.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2310 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, after breakfast, we will leave Chhomrong and walk through the stone path before reaching Chhomrong Khola. Crossing the suspension bridge, we will ascend towards the Sinuwa. Throughout the trail, we will pass through a beautiful forest to reach Kuldihar. We will walk from Khuldihar for a few hours to Babboo, where we will spend a night at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3230 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We will walk through a damp and cold bamboo forest and then climb a sometimes steep uphill trail. When we reach the Himalaya Hotel, the forest will open up, and we will be back in the sun with amazing views of the glacial river below. After a steep climb through a drier forest, we will arrive at Hinku Cave. From there, our trail will go down to a river and then back up to Deurali. Here, we will see stunning views of the surrounding hills and Mt. Dhaulagiri. The sparse vegetation will allow us to enjoy magical views of the valley, the river below, and cliffs with waterfalls. We will spend the night in Deurali.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3700 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will follow the valley trail and climb gradually. The trail can sometimes be difficult since it follows a rocky mountain, and we will continue our trek on a relatively flat path before ascending to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Here, we will have great views of Mt. Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gandharvachuli, and the Gangapurna mountains. Then we will turn left and start a gentle climb to the Annapurna Base Camp. Along the way, we will enjoy amazing views of the Himalayas. Overnight, we will stay at Annapurna Base Camp.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2310 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we embark on a trek to Bamboo. Following the same route, we will return to Bamboo to enjoy the panoramic views of the Annapurna Ranges, Hiuncguli, Mount Dhaulagiri, etc. Overnight, we will stay at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1780 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We head back to Chhomrong for lunch. From there, we take a steep path down to the Modi Khola valley. The stone steps to Chhomrong are just as challenging as before. Then, the trail goes down to Jhinu Danda, where we’ll stay for the night. On the way, we walk through rainforests and farms. After arriving at Jhinu Danda, we can relax for the rest of the afternoon. We’ll spend the night in Jhinu Danda.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1070 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, after breakfast, we will leave Jhinu Danda and head towards the Matque. Upon reaching Matque, on the way we will have lunch and drive back to Pokhara in a private vehicle, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. The actual Anapurna Sanctuary Cultural Trek ends here. We will spend a night in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation Star
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast

After enjoying breakfast in the morning, we’ll start our journey back to Kathmandu. Our return trip offers the same two options as your journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will be transported to your hotel for an overnight stay.

With the remaining time, you can explore the exquisite Kathmandu Durbar Square or other culturally significant sites within the city, which boast a wealth of heritage. Your night will be spent in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

As our delightful Annapurna Trek in Nepal concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours before your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your enriching cultural and natural journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Nayapool.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Hot Springs: Entry to the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

Annapurna treks attract widespread attention because of their breathtaking scenery and landscapes. Key attractions include the Annapurna Sanctuary, Poon Hill, Ghorepani, and the Annapurna Base Camp.

Porters and guides play a significant role in the success of your trek. Tipping serves as a means to express gratitude for their assistance, but it is entirely optional and left to your discretion.

Discovery World Trekking advises against consuming non-vegetarian items during the trek due to concerns about the hygiene of meat in trekking regions. Additionally, they suggest avoiding dairy products, cheesy items, and alcoholic drinks throughout the trek. Therefore, our trekking packages cater to both vegans and vegetarians.

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek schedule offers adaptable transportation choices. You have the flexibility to opt for a flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara, in either direction, with an additional charge. The flight duration from Kathmandu to Pokhara is around 25 minutes.

Bottled water is readily accessible at the tea house/lodge throughout the trek. We recommend utilizing water purification drops and tablets. Additionally, Discovery World Trekking supplies water purifier pills.

Certainly. Yes, you can access Wi-Fi in the tea houses/lodges across trekking regions, though there might be a charge for the service.

The trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary presents a moderate challenge, with the level of difficulty being contingent on your fitness and experience.

The Annapurna Sanctuary trek spans approximately 110 kilometers (equivalent to 68 miles), varying based on the chosen route and starting location.

Many hikers typically finish the Annapurna Sanctuary trek within a span of 9 to 14 days, incorporating time for acclimatization and enhancing the overall enjoyment of the trek. Nevertheless, the specific duration may differ depending on your itinerary and hiking pace.