Nepal | Annapurna

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Nepal

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

Nepal

Trip Overview

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is yet another famous trek in Nepal. For the best views and enjoyment of the Annapurna mountain range, and the whole Annapurna region, February is the best time.  From the very beginning of the trek distant views of beautiful Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Machhapuchhre are visible. On the way to Annapurna Base Camp you will pass through several villages including Ghandruk, Dhampus, Chhomrong where you will get a glimpse of Magar, Gurung, and Brahmin life and culture.

Trip Highlights

  • Panoramic views of Himalayas from base camp.
  • Visit the Gurung village of Chomrong.
  • Trek through the rhododendron and bamboo forest.

Itinerary

Kathmandu Arrival with Avata

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our airport representative will be waiting to welcome you with your name written on a placard. Depending on traffic, you will be at your hotel within 20 minutes or so. You have time to
relax and enjoy the ambience and comfort of the hotel.

Kathmandu sightseeing (KTM D. Square, Swayambhu, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath)

Today is spent visiting some of the major World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu.

Pashupatinath, one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pashupatinath, which means Lord of all animals, is one of the many names of Shiva. Built-in 400 AD, but later renovated by the Malla Kings around the 6th century, inside the temple there exists the statue of four-faced six-foot lingam, phallic object as a symbol of Shiva, resting in the middle of a rimmed, disc-shaped structure, phallic symbol of Shakti – a concept or personification of divine feminine creative power.

Next is Boudhanath; one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. The stupa is raised according to Tibetan philosophy, but before the construction of the 118-foot stupa, the site was a resting point for every Tibetan merchant passing through Nepal. Here they would rest and offer prayers to Lord Buddha for many centuries.

Later, you will be exploring Kathmandu Durbar Square, which has the palace and courtyard of the old kings in Nepal.Visit many temples and buildings, including Kumari Chowk (the courtyard of the living goddess), the Aakash Bhairav Temple, the Temple of Lord Machhendranath, and Itumbahal courtyard.

Drive from Pokhara to Birenthati transfer and trek to Ghandruk.

Early morning you will drive to Nayapul from Pokhara in a private vehicle. From here you will follow the river and hike through dense forests taking a scenic route to Syauli Bazaar where you will stay overnight.

Notes:
  • Altitude: Ghandruk (2000 m)
  • Duration: 1 hour drive / 5 to 6 hours. approx. trek
  • Accommodation: Basic Tea House

Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong

From Ghandruk to Chhomrong, the highest permanent settlement in the valley, the trek gradually climbs to Deurali before dropping to cross Kimrung Khola. Beginning the day with a gentle uphill climb for about an hour, you will reach Kimrung Danda. The views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks are awe-inspiring. Descend steeply to Kimrung Khola.

Ascend  to Chhomrong, a Gurung village at the base of Hiunchuli Himal. There is a tremendous view of Annapurna South from here. After another steep climb from Kimrung Khola to Chere Danda, you will descend for a short while and then a brisk walk to Chhomrong, the gateway to Annapurna Sanctuary trek. Chhomrong is a beautiful village located in the lap of the giant Annapurna and inhabited by the ethnic Gurung tribe.

Notes:
  • Altitude: 1951 meters (Chhomorong)
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours. approx
  • Accommodation: Basic Tea House

Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan.

Today, you will begin your day with a gentle descent on a stone staircase to Chhomrong Khola and across a suspension bridge. Then it is an ascent through a beautiful forest to reach Sinuwa village. Continue through dense bamboo forest to reach Kuldighar and descend towards the aptly named Bamboo. Continue along the trail to Dovan.

Notes:
  • Altitude: 2505 meters (Dovan)
  • Duration: 7 hours. approx
  • Accommodation: Basic Tea House

Trek from Dovan to Machhapuchhare Base Camp.

Today’s trail passes through dense bamboo and rhododendron forest and, along one stretch, passes the remains of several avalanches. You will have occasional views of the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre ahead, but often the forest is too thick to allow more than a tantalizing glimpse.
After descending a stone staircase to a section of exceptionally thick bamboo forest, you climb steeply through bamboo and rhododendron, following the trail high above the river to days’ end at Himalaya Hotel.

Notes:
  • Altitude: 3700 meters (Machhapuchhre Base Camp)
  • Duration: 4 hours Approx.
  • Accommodation: Basic Tea House

Trek from Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp.

You’ll wake up and have breakfast in Machhapuchhre Base Camp and then set out for Annapurna Base Camp. Any living vegetation that you may have encountered on previous days will likely be replaced with snow, rocks, and boulders. Dress warm and take the trail slowly so you can acclimatize to the higher elevation. The path widens as you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, follows a stream, and then continues uphill. You’ll enjoy a rewarding finish with unobstructed views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna south, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and other peaks.

Notes:
  • Altitude: 4130 meters (Annapurna base Camp)
  • Trek Duration: 2 to 2 Hours 30 minutes. Approx
  • Accommodation: Basic Tea House

Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo.

After a mesmerizing sunrise and a warm breakfast, you will retrace your step to Bamboo, a downhill trek, obviously an easy one. Waking up before sunrise, we take in the magnificent view as the sun’s rays hit the Himalayas. This is a photographic opportunity beyond comparison.  Then after our breakfast , we return to Bamboo.  Walking downhill is easier but with a drop of 2,000 meters over 6-7 hours, watch out for shaky legs!  Walking alongside beautiful glaciers and through the forests, we arrive at Bamboo at the end of the day. Passing bamboo and rhododendron forests and witnessing stunning views, you will reach Bamboo.

Notes:
  • Altitude: 2310 meters (Bamboo)
  • Duration: 7 – 8 hours. approx
  • Accommodation: Basic Tea House

Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Hotspring.

Begin your trek towards Jhinu Hotsprings. The first part of the route is descending back to Chhomrong then you will climb for a bit then again downhill through forests and villages.
Reaching Jhinu relax in a series of hot spring fed pools deep in the Modi Khola Canyon. The three main pools are different temperatures so try them all and, during busier times of the year snacks and a well-deserved beer can be purchased.

Notes:
  • Altitude: 1780 meters (hot Spring)
  • Duration: 6 hours. approx
  • Accommodation: Basic Tea house

Trek from Jhinu to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara.

Today, your day will start gradually descending towards Nayapul. On the way you will pass through villages with scenic views of Annapurna. Arriving at Nayapul your private transportation will be waiting for drive you to Pokhara.

Notes:
  • Duration: 6 hours approx (trek) 1 hour approx (drive)
  • Accommodation: Hotel Aabas

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu 

From Pokhara to Kathmandu the winding Prithvi Highway affords beautiful views of hills and village settlements as well as the Trishuli River.

Kathmandu is a diverse, historic city with amazing architecture, exquisite wood carvings and metal craft which showcase the skills of the Newar artisans of centuries ago. Hinduism and Buddhism have co-existed in the Kathmandu Valley from time immemorial and the Valley residents make little distinction as they worship at both Hindu and Buddhist shrines. Kathmandu is a city where ancient traditions are zealously guarded whilst at the same time embracing modern technology.

 

Notes:
  • Accommodation: Traditional Comfort

Departure Transfer to the Airport 

Check-in is 2.5 hours prior to departure, and it is best not to skim on time as queues can be long and slow. Your booked airport transfer will be at your hotel ready to take you to the airport in time, allowing approximately 30mins driving time depending on time of day. At the airport security will check your flight ticket – either hard copy or on your mobile – along with your passport before you are allowed to enter the departure hall.

Services Included

  • Private transport as per group size to and from the trekking region
  • Accommodation in basic tea house on sharing basis
  • English Speaking Trekking Guide
  • Service of assistant guide for groups of 5 trekkers and above.
  • 01 Porter for 2 trekkers/ maximum 15 kgs luggage per porter
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Services Excluded

  • All meals while on trek
  • Travel and medical insurance including evacuation and cancellation (including helicopter evacuation for trek)
  • Expenses of personal nature including bar bills, laundry, telephone calls
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Any item not specified as included
  • Expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of Royal Mountain Travel

Impact Footprints

  • Stay in locally-owned lodges or tea houses
  • Waste management (bring back all the waste materials you have carried on your way)
  • Respect local culture and dress code.
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