General
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is unique as it covers an unusually wide range of climatic zones in such a short time. The Annapurna Circuit covers altitudes from 900m to 5416m in just over 300 kilometers, which means you will see many different plants and animals, a wealth of cultural insights, a combination of picturesque terraced farms and villages, spectacular high mountain scenery and a challenging pass crossing. Throughout our walk, we enjoy regular contact with friendly villagers, as well as ever-changing panoramas of some of the world’s most magnificent mountain scenery, such as Annapurna 8091m, the magnificent ice pyramid which was once the home of the legendary Buddhist guru (teacher) Padmasamba, Dhauligiri 8167m, and Machhupuchhare 6993m, considered by many to be the most beautiful mountain in the world.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek follows ancient paths used as trade routes between Nepal and Tibet. These paths have long facilitated the flow of cultures and religions in this remote and formerly inaccessible region. Today Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism, Hinduism and the mysterious Bon-Po religion still coexist in this region which contains many pilgrimage sites.
We begin the Annapurna Circuit Trek after a highly scenic drive to the road-head in the Marsyangdi Valley. The trail follows the great Marsyangdi Valley to reach the north side of the Annapurna Massif. Beyond the village of Manang, on the north side of the Annapurnas, we begin the tough ascent to the Thorung La Pass 5416m, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which touches the edge of the legendary Tibetan plateau. We then descend into the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gadaki valley, reaching a famous pilgrimage site, Muktinath, where there are a number of Hindu and Buddhist temples. Trekking through the Kali Gandaki Valley for four leisurely days, we then climb to another ridge at Ghorepani, from where we make the sunrise excursion to Poon Hill to watch the dawn break over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas. This is the last stop on the Annapurna Circuit Trek before reaching Pokhara, and returning to many comforts and conveniences that you will no longer take for granted! You can enjoy a well earned rest in the relaxing atmosphere of Lakeside with its magical views of the Annapurnas, reflected in the waters of Phewa Lake.
- Transportation from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster
- A Welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu, two nights (bed and breakfast and tax included) Hotel categories are the two star, eg. Hotel Shakti or Norbu Linka
- Accommodation in Pokhara, One night (bed and breakfast and tax included) Hotel Lake Star or Hotel Meera
- English speaking experienced Sherpa, Govt. Trained/License Holder guide
- Porters: One porter for 2 persons basis, from Pokhara – whole Trek (Load Limit 30 KG per porter)
- Local Transportations Nayapul – Pokhara: Car, Van, Hi-ace and Tourist bus for pick up
- Accommodation during trek ; local lodges 16 days (16 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 15 dinners, tea, coffee and twin-share rooms with beds with comfortable foam mattress and pillows included)
- Annapurna Conservation Fee, TIMS permits & any required permits or Official Documentation
- One Sherpa guide-assistant (if group size is more than 4)
- Personal insurance for Nepalese staff
- All ground transfers Kathamndu – Besi Shar- Pokhara- Kathmandu Tourist Bus
- Beverages (soft drinks, mineral water and beer )
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu / Pokhara - allow $ 10 to 14 for per meal in Tourist restaurant
- Tips for driver and guide (mandatory)
- Personal travel insurance
- Any personal expenses not mentioned in above services
- International round-trip airfare