Annapurna Circuit Trek 14-Days
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14 Days
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Group Size : 14
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Wifi Available
Description
Annapurna circuit trek is one of the classic, most diverse and stunning teahouse trekking route in the Annapurna region. We explore the natural diversity from lush, tropical paddies field and rhododendron forests to Tibetan fortresses clinging to rocky cliffs. Walking through the interesting terrain of diverse geology, trekkers have a chance to experience the rich cultural diversity of Buddhism and the mysterious Bon-Po religion still co-existing and intermingle with each other. We have specially designed this Annapurna circuit trekking route making it shorter and avoiding the walk-on recently build a road. For example, the Kaligandaki Valley has been affected by road building in recent years, so this itinerary just takes in the best parts of the circuit. We start the trek from Bulbule after a drive from Kathmandu and finish at Jomsom, where we take a short flight to the city of Pokhara. Trekking around Annapurna routes includes the Great Himalayan trail from Dharapani to Kagbeni, the Tibetan Buddhist dominated settlements. We explore the Braga monastery, the oldest in the region and the shine of Muktinath, a famous pilgrimage site being worshiped by both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. We make the trek over the grouling pass of Thorung la at 5416 meters. It is one of the main highlights of the Annapurna trek. The views from the pass are truly spectacular, spreading from the northwest wind-eroded ” the Last Forbidden Kingdom” of Mustang valley to incredible mountain ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We also do explore the peaceful lake city of Pokhara before we return back to Kathmandu to end the exhilarating trip to Annapurna circuit trek.
- Annapurna circuit is the first name that comes to mind to anyone who has looked into trekking in Nepal. We explore the natural diversity of lush, tropical paddies field and rhododendron forests to Tibetan fortresses and communities clinging to rocky cliffs.
- Pickups and drops from hotels and airport
- Accommodations in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara; and teahouses during the trek
- Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara. All meals during the trek
- Welcome and farewell dinners
- Transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
- Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle
- An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
- Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, kit bag/duffel bag, t-shirt, trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
- All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP, TIMS)
- A comprehensive medical kit
- All government and local taxes
- Nepalese visa fee
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Excess baggage charges
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Airplane fare
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
- Tips for guides and porters
Itinerary
A Step By Step Treks & Adventure representative will be waiting for you at the airport. He/she will then drop us off at our hotel where we can take a rest. In the evening we can enjoy a short visit around mix colorful touristic hub at Thamel and as well as introduce the Nepalese mix culture with food and drinks.
Today is our second big day for exploring the entire popular Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This spot shows you the most highlight of Nepal’s cultural and religious heritages. Our following days will be Kathmandu Durbar Square which showcases Kathmandu’s rich architectural prowess during the Malla dynasty (c1201–1769), and then Swayambhunath Stupa which tourists commonly refer to as the ‘Monkey Temple’ owing to a large number of the monkey population in the vicinity. Next is Pashupatinath Temple which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus all over the world followed by the Buddhist shrine of Boudhanath which is one of the largest stupas in the world. Overnight in Kathmand
We will drive to Beshisahar. We then take a local jeep from Beshisahar to Syange. This drive gives you some insight into the rural people – their lifestyle and their culture. Overnight at Guesthouse
We enter Manang district after crossing a large bridge near Tal. The trail passes through barley, rice and potato fields; and the waterfalls continue to accompany us even today. We also pass through the village of Kodo before reaching Dharapani which is one of the biggest villages in the Manang valley. Overnight at Dharapani.
Today we negotiate a few steep forested ridges along with several landslides on route to Chame. We should not forget to look up though, as we will be greeted with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Overnight at Chame.
We walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of Paungda Danda rock face, a dramatic curved rock face rising 1500m from the river. From here, we also gain excellent views of Annapurna 2 to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast. Next, we descend to the Manang Valley floor enjoying the captivating landscape. Overnight in Pisang.
From Pisang there are two routes to Manang. We choose the one which passes through Upper Pisang via Gyaru as it guarantees outstanding views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others. As we walk near Manang the climate becomes more cold and dry. However, a short visit to Baraga Monastery, the biggest monastery in the Manang. Overnight at Manang.
In order to keep fit on the trails that follow, we keep ourselves busy today with a short hike to either 100 Lama Cave (Gumba) or Gangapurna Lake (optional-Ice Lake). If we have the energy, we can even hike to Vraga Village where we can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association which will give us some idea about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Overnight in Manang.
From Manang village, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to a village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola. The trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, a scrub of juniper trees, as it steadily gains elevation. The trail further passes near the small village of Ghunsang, a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trailhead. Now the trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. Little but Gradual ascent is the key to avoiding altitude problems.
It is an uphill walk to Thorang Phedi. After walking for some time we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village. We ascend furthermore and pass through towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the last village before Thorong La. On this trip we are rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. Overnight in Thorang Phedi.
Crossing Thorong La pass, one of the highest passes in the world will be our ultimate objective today. We will be crossing the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath) which is the easiest and safest direction. We get up around three in the morning and walk up the mountain. When we finally make it to the top, we realize that our journey was worth it. We can take a few photos before heading to Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La pass. Next, drive to Jomsom a Himalayan village famous for its delicious apples. Overnight in Jomsom.
Today we fly to Pokhara, the lake city in the earliest possible airplane. After checking-in at our hotel, we may take a rest or visit the Lakeside area in the vicinity of the Fewa Lake. Here, we can indulge in buying some souvenirs or sampling some local delicacies. Overnight in Pokhara.
After breakfast, we say goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and drive towards Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off. There will also be a farewell dinner hosted by our Company in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our journey.
Our adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! A Step By Step representative will escort us to the airport approximately 2 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Location
Faq
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
Average Reviews
5/5
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Showing 4 verified guest comments
Athena Fournier
We are a couple from German and had just completed Annapurna Circuit over the course of 14 days, facilitated by Step By Step. We could not be more pleased with our experience. From the beginning, Krishna Lama was accommodating to our wishes and prompt with all replies (we organized the trek from German 4 months in advance). He was reasonable, open, and sincere with all prices, inclusions, and exclusions. The Circuit trek itself was phenomenal. We were guided by Syam and our porter was vheem. Syam was knowledgeable, informative and very experienced on the local history and area of terrain. He was attentive to our needs, always recognizing when we required rest or some extra assistance. Syam always encouraged us to go at our own pace which was very helpful and evidence of good guiding skills. He was well equipped with poles, crampons, and medications that all proved useful to me during the trek. All accommodation along the journey was perfect and comfortable. What an incredible Thorong-La Pass, the trek itself pretty challenging but once a lifetime reward. We were given a certificate for our achievement and Nepali handmade craft product, all as kind gestures that really strengthened our love for Step By Step and this country. Overall, we are thrilled with our experience and would DEFINITELY highly recommend to use this company for anyone. We hope to come back to Nepal for another big adventure trek & will definitely be asking for Syam and Vheem again. Namaste..pheri betaula!
Eleanor May
Step by Step Treks and Adventures was recommended to me by my friend Emma, also from the UK, who was in Nepal last year. She was very happy to have done a trek through the company to Australia base camp with a guide, and now friend, Bijay. When my mum and I arrived in Pokhara we went to visit the office to discuss possible short treks in the Annapurna region, as my mum was only in Nepal for a short period. Krishna was unbelievably friendly and helpful and organized a 4-day trek to Poon Hill for us beginning the following day, with guide Dipak. Krishna arranged the necessary permits and we didn’t have to worry about a thing. He even leaned my trekking poles for my sore knees! We had such a magical adventure to Poon Hill. For both of us it was our first experience trekking in the Himalayas so it was fantastic to have Dipak there who is a very experienced guide of 15 years, who could answer our many questions, teach us little bits of Nepali language and point out all of the hidden gems in the villages and on the trails. He picked out the most affordable and lovely tea houses along the way. On the morning we hiked up to Poon Hill from Ghorepani, we got up before the sun and took the many stairs up through the forest to see the sunrise from behind the Annapurna massif. The evening before had been cloudy and the mountains were hiding so we were unaware of the beauty that was going to reveal itself. The sun rose, with not a cloud in the sky. We were delighted to see the first rays of sunlight caught on the 8,000+ peak of Dhaulagiri and light up its snowy ridges in orange and pink. It’s hard to put into words, but I will say that is 100% worth the stairs! After my mum left Nepal, I planned to do the Annapurna circuit as an individual as funds would not allow me to pay for a guide for two weeks. Regardless, when I went to Step by Step for advice, they made time for me. Bijay and I had lunch and he gave me all of the advice and guidance he could regarding elevation & acclimatization, side trails to Tillicho Lake and Ice lake among others, itinerary advice and info regarding villages and transport. He then took me to the permit office to get my papers sorted. The circuit was one of the best experiences of my life to date. The trail is so beautiful and diverse, and I met so many lovely souls along the way. I find the generosity and open hearted-nature of Nepali people so inspiring. I feel very lucky indeed! Every day I would wake up and just be so astounded by my surroundings. I was also never trekking along as I met so many fellow solo trekkers and awesome friends and at the higher altitudes especially we took good care of one another. I can’t thank Krishna and Bijay enough for how generous they have been with their time and energy. I am over the moon to have such lovely friends in Pokhara! Dherai dherai dhaanybaad!
Xavier
"Annapurna & Tilicho Lake Treks" When we arrived in Pokhara, last November week, we came across by chance on the Step By Step agency, just one day before our Trek starts. To our great surprise, we met Krishna, the boss of the agency, a kind and most honest person. Krishna has a great sense of human relationships, always friendly and cheerful. He gave us a warm welcome and took all the necessary time to listen to us and our needs. He then advised us for the right trek according to our wishes, providing us with porter guys and bags. After some misadventures with what looked like a special tourist rip-off doctor and clinique, one of our friends being ill, Krishna took us to and adapted city hospital where she was treated conscientiously and quickly. He kindly stayed with us all the way long, helping to translate the doctors' diagnoses and driving us back to our hotel. Thanks to him and his advice full of experiences, our trek was a success. Once we returned in Pokhara at the beginning of December, Krishna was present to welcome us back and took the time to hear our feedback and question us about how we could even further improve his agency services. Krishna is without any doubt, exceptionally kind and professional. His agency provides high quality and serious services. I highly recommend Krishna and his agency. Will definitively return to him if I had the chance.
Lee
From the moment we arrived Pokhara bus station, we were welcomed by Step by Step trekking guides (Rupesh and Syam), with typical warm Nepalese greeting "Namaste!" They provide tailor-made service to trekking our own pace and understand our need, since we are not very experienced trekkers. We were doing the Annapurna and Poon Hill 5 days trek, the team decided to let us start with the easier and more scenic route of the Annapurna circuit. Before the trip, we had 2 days of rest and relax, also they gave us a very detailed briefing(itinerary, reminders of high altitude, possible risk, and contingency plan, etc.) and meeting of the team. Each day they will ask the preference of our meal choices and try to cater our need, also I'm surprised that they are actually good cook as well, very often we saw them not just monitor in the kitchen, they actually help prepare a meal for us, amazing after a long day of trekking, and it was delicious!! Curry, Tibetan bread, soup, Momo dumpling.....etc All the tea house( guest house) were carefully selected since they know the hygienic condition, and most importantly the water source! During the journey, we learned a lot about Nepal, and they don't treat you as the customer, but actually friends, they took good care of our physical and mental status all the time and you would never get bored! Also, they put safety first, even when they saw solo travelers, they would also give them reminders selflessly. We were so happy to have such wonderful trip, and experience the generous and kind Nepalese hospitality.
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