Mt Annapurna Expedition – 54 Days

Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), you will be warmly greeted by representatives of Peaceful Nepal Treks and Tours at the arrival section. They will assist you with your luggage and escort you to a private vehicle for a comfortable drive to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. During the drive, you can enjoy glimpses of the city life. Once at the hotel, our representative will help you with check-in procedures and provide a brief introduction to your stay and upcoming expedition. You’ll have the rest of the day to rest and refresh, allowing you to recover from your travels. This first day in Nepal sets the stage for an exciting adventure ahead!

This day is dedicated to essential preparations for the expedition. Our team will handle the official process of collecting the necessary permits for Mt. Annapurna climbing. In the afternoon, you’ll attend a pre-briefing session at either our office or your hotel. This is a crucial part of the journey where our experienced guides provide an overview of the expedition, including important details about food, accommodation, required gear, safety protocols, and other essential tips. This briefing not only ensures that you are well-prepared but also gives you an opportunity to interact with other members of the climbing team if any. Overnight stay at your hotel.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we’ll set out on the overland trip along the Prithvi Highway. This route offers mesmerizing views of rolling hills, rivers, terraced fields, and rural villages. As we approach Pokhara, the scenery transforms into Phewa Lake glittering in the sun and views of towering mountain peaks reflecting on the lake’s surface. Known as Nepal’s adventure hub, Pokhara is a city with plenty of attractions. If time permits, you can enjoy a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake or visit the iconic Tal Barahi Temple situated on an island. In the evening, stay in a comfortable hotel and enjoy a relaxing overnight.

After breakfast, we embark on a short drive to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek to Annapurna North Base Camp. The winding roads offer a scenic introduction to the Annapurna region. Upon arrival at Nayapul, the trekking part begins. Walking along the banks of the Modi Khola River, we pass through charming villages and terraced fields. At Birethanti, we stop to register our permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail continues uphill, gradually leading us through subtropical forests and several small villages like Ramghai, Sudame, and Hille. After an enjoyable trek, we reach Tikhedhunga, where we have dinner and stay overnight in a traditional lodge, experiencing the warm hospitality of the region.

Today’s journey takes us from Tikhedhunga to the iconic village of Ghorepani. The trek begins with a steep ascent, including a climb up stone staircases to the village of Ulleri. As we ascend, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trail then leads through dense rhododendron and oak forests, which are especially captivating during spring when the flowers are in full bloom. After several hours of trekking, we arrive at Ghorepani, a beautiful settlement offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Dinner and an overnight stay at a lodge.

An early morning hike to Poonhill is the highlight of the day. Starting before dawn, we trek uphill to this famous viewpoint, where you’ll see an unforgettable sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The sight of golden sunlight illuminating the snow-capped peaks is truly magical! After descending to Ghorepani for breakfast, we continue our trek toward Tatopani. The trail descends through lush forests and passes through villages like Chitre, Sikha, and Ghar Khola. Upon reaching Tatopani, you’ll have the chance to relax in natural hot springs, a perfect way to rejuvenate after a long day of trekking. Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge.

The trek to Ghasa begins with a walk alongside the Kali Gandaki River. The trail ascends gradually through forested paths, offering glimpses of waterfalls and charming villages. Along the way, you’ll notice a transition in culture from Hindu to Buddhist influences, reflected in the architecture and local customs. Ghasa, a beautiful village in the lower Mustang region, is known for its Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions. After reaching Ghasa, we check into a lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we set out on a relatively short trek to Lete. The trail ascends gently through forests of pine and conifer, which are excellent for birdwatching. As we progress, the trail opens up to offer spectacular views of snow-capped peaks. After crossing Dhampus Pass, we descend to the charming village of Lete, surrounded by natural beauty. This day’s trek allows ample time to relax and explore the environment. Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge.

Starting the day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Lete, we embark on our trek toward the Thulo Bugin’s campsite. The trail follows the banks of a river, surrounded by lush green forests. Along the way, you will cross several bridges and encounter areas with dense tree cover. As the trek progresses, the landscape opens into alpine meadows and vast open fields, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. After approximately five hours of trekking, we reach Thulo Bugin, a peaceful campsite nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. Here, our Peaceful Nepal Treks and Tours team sets up camp and enjoy a peaceful evening with magnificent mountain views. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

The trek from Thulo Bugin to Hum Khola offers a change from alpine meadows to the rugged and remote landscapes of the Annapurna region. After breakfast, we ascend along trails that are less traveled, enjoying the solitude and natural beauty. The trekking trail goes through pastures and sparse forests before crossing the Lete River and entering a dense forest of towering trees. The forest opens into the flat terrain of Hum Khola, a serene area rarely visited by other trekkers. This quiet environment provides an enriching experience. We set up camp near a water source at Hum Khola for dinner and an overnight stay.

The day begins with a beautiful sunrise over Hum Khola, followed by breakfast at the campsite. The trek takes us across rocky terrains, offering an opportunity to explore the untouched wilderness of the Annapurna region. As we ascend through diverse high-altitude landscapes, we encounter glacier streams, moraines, and expansive mountain vistas. The trail includes several ascents and descents over challenging terrain. Gradually, we descend toward Miristi Khola, crossing glacial rivers and navigating loose rocks. Our experienced Peaceful Nepal Treks and Tours guides assist throughout this part of the trek. At Miristi Khola, a secluded and scenic location, we set up camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the Miristi Khola campsite, we begin the trek toward the Annapurna North Base Camp. The trail involves navigating rocky terrains and glacial paths, crossing crevasses and uneven surfaces. As we ascend, the landscape transforms into a high-altitude plain covered with ice and snow. The final approach to the base camp involves a steep, icy climb. Unlike the more frequented South Base Camp, the North Base Camp offers a unique and peaceful mountaineering experience. Surrounded by Annapurna I and its neighboring peaks, the campsite provides a unique sense of isolation and beauty. Here, the expert team from Peaceful Nepal Treks and Tours will set up additional camps and begin preparing for the challenging ascent of Mount Annapurna!

Summiting the world’s 10th-highest peak, Mount Annapurna I, requires advanced technical skills, physical endurance, and meticulous preparation. The ascent involves multiple high-altitude camps above the base camp, each presenting its own unique challenges and risks. Over these weeks, our experienced Peaceful Nepal Treks and Tours guides will provide essential training, guidance, and support to ensure your safety and success! The expedition begins with setting up Camps I, II, III, and IV at strategic altitudes. These camps offer rest, acclimatization, and preparation time for climbers before progressing to the next stage. Acclimatization hikes, regular health checkups, and rest days are crucial for maintaining fitness and minimizing altitude-related risks. Our team provides nutritious and hygienic meals to keep you energized throughout the expedition. Before the final summit push, we ensure that climbers are fully acclimatized and equipped with all necessary gear. Our skilled guides secure the safest routes, fix ropes, and set ladders to navigate the technical sections of the climb. The summit attempt typically begins around midnight to take advantage of optimal weather conditions and reach the peak early in the morning. The climb from Camp IV to the summit is an intense endeavor. Reaching the summit of Mount Annapurna is a moment of triumph, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the entire Annapurna Himalayan range! Celebrate your success with fellow climbers, capture memorable photographs or videos, and savor the sense of accomplishment. After spending time at the summit, the descent begins, retracing the route back to Camp IV and then progressively descending back to base camp over the following days.

With the climbing phase complete, we begin our descent from Annapurna North Base Camp. The trek retraces the route through the glaciers and rocky terrains back to Miristi Khola. Descending offers an opportunity to think back on the incredible expedition while enjoying the natural beauty of the high-altitude landscapes. After several hours of trekking southward, we arrive back at the Miristi Khola campsite, where you can rest and enjoy a well-earned dinner.

After breakfast, we will pack up our campsite and retrace our steps along the familiar trail toward the Thulo Bugin campsite, passing through Hum Khola. The descent takes us through rugged and remote Himalayan terrain, with stunning views along the way. Upon arrival at Thulo Bugin, we will set up camp and have dinner.

Following our breakfast at the Thulo Bugin campsite, we will continue descending from the high-altitude landscapes to the more populated subtropical regions. The trek takes us back through lush vegetation and traditional mountainside villages. Upon reaching Lete, we will settle into a comfortable lodge after a long time for a relaxing evening and a hearty dinner.

From Lete, we head downhill back toward Ghasa, following the same trail used during the ascent. This route offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayas and glimpses into the rural lifestyle of mountain villagers. Once we arrive back in Ghasa, you’ll have time to explore the village or simply relax in the comfort of the lodge. Dinner and overnight stay at Ghasa.

The day begins with a descent from Ghasa back toward Tatopani. Along the way, we’ll pause at the Rukse waterfall, a scenic spot perfect for a short break! Continuing the trek, we enter the Kali Gandaki valley and reach back at Tatopani by evening. Here, you can once more relax in the natural hot springs, and take advantage of their healing properties, before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.

Leaving Tatopani, we take a last short trek to Beni, marking the conclusion of our trekking part of the Mt Annapurna expedition. The trail offers beautiful views of terraced fields, rivers, and mountains. From Beni, we will take a scenic drive back to Pokhara, passing through narrow and winding roads with charming countryside views. Upon arrival back in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel to rest and freshen up. In the evening, explore the serene lakeside area of this vibrant city and enjoy all the comfort and facilities of your hotel.

After breakfast and checking out from the hotel, we will take a scenic drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. The road follows the Trishuli River, offering views of terraced fields, rivers, and village life along the way. Upon arrival back in Kathmandu, our guide will transfer you to your hotel, where you can unwind and think back on the incredible Annapurna expedition.

This day is reserved for leisure in Kathmandu. You can relax at your hotel or explore the city's vibrant attractions. Peaceful Nepal Treks and Tours can arrange additional sightseeing activities for you, including visits to cultural landmarks, markets, or temples. In the evening, join us for a special farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your Mt Annapurna expedition.

On your final day in Nepal, enjoy breakfast at your hotel before our representative transfers you to the airport in a private vehicle for your international flight. We thank you for choosing Peaceful Nepal Treks and Tours and hope to see you again for another unforgettable adventure. Safe travels!