Annapurna Adventure

This wonderful journey explores the spectacular, multi-faceted world of the Annapurna Himal, one of the most culturally rich and intensely scenic regions of Nepal. Here we can experience a marvelous Himalayan realm—at a comfortable elevation (no higher than 6,600 feet)—as we trek village-to-village in the Annapurna foothills under the gaze of mighty Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, and other soaring, ice-clad peaks. After each day’s hike, our overnights are in cozy mountain lodges magnificently positioned to take full advantage of the amazing views. Our comprehensive adventure continues with a relaxing float trip on the remote Seti River and exciting gameviewing near Chitwan National Park, haunt of the rare Bengal tiger.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Kathmandu

We explore Kathmandu, including Bodhnath, a 1,400-year-old stupa that attracts pilgrims from across Buddhist Asia, and Pashupatinath, a riverside Shiva temple with cremation ghats and wandering sadhus (holy men).

Day 3
Pokhara / Lamakhet / Annapurna Foothills

We fly to Pokhara in the lower foothills of the Annapurnas and begin our trek with a descent on an ancient trail to the Modi Khola Valley, following it to our first lodge, located near the pretty village of Lamakhet. The lodge has magnificent vistas of the Matterhorn-like spire of 22,943-foot Machapuchare.

Days 4-5
Ghandruk / Gurung Villages

Hiking through terraced fields and rhododendron forests, we reach the classic village of Ghandruk (6,600'), with its ancient slate-roofed homes and maze of cobbled lanes. We enjoy a day to explore this village of Gurung, Magar, Chetri, and Brahman hill tribes, with the peaks of the Annapurnas forming an eye-popping backdrop.

Days 6-8
Lamakhet / Majgaun / Pokhara Valley

Lush subtropical scenery surrounds us as we hike through riverside settings and little-visited hamlets. Always with us, gleaming beneath the blue sky, are the snowy summits of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. On Day 8, we descend to the charming Shangri- La Village Resort.

Day 9
Seti River Camp

A leisurely journey by raft brings us down the Seti River, a chance to watch village life. Overnight at a well-appointed safari-style river camp, with dinner around a crackling fire.

Days 10-12
Tharu Lodge

From our charming lodge set in the buffer zone of Chitwan National Park, we enjoy gameviewing and village visits in a mosaic of forests in one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in Asia, home to endangered one-horned rhinos and the elusive Bengal tiger.

Days 13-15
Kathmandu

After our last explorations of fascinating Kathmandu, we depart on Day 15.

For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 4, Moderate to Strenuous. We have five hiking days, hiking approximately 3-6 hours a day (6 to 8 miles) on moderate to steep trails at altitudes below 6,600 feet. The steepest hike is in the middle of the trek, when we ascend 2,850 feet from Lamakhet to Ghandruk village. For the most part, you can go at your own speed. The group spreads out along the trail during the day, with our guides hiking along with us to make sure that everyone finds the way. There is ample opportunity for exploring the villages and beautiful surroundings and, of course, for photography.
    
The Annapurna area provides a truly ideal Himalayan trekking experience, relatively short yet intensely scenic. Incredible mountain panoramas and cultural variety make it among Nepal’s most fascinating trekking areas.         

Even though you carry only a daypack (with camera, jacket, rain gear, water bottle, and other small necessities you may need while on the trail), we recommend you make a special effort to get in top physical shape for the trip. Daily brisk walking and/or regular hiking (or using a stair-climbing machine at your gym) are excellent preparatory exercises. Anyone in good health who enjoys hiking should find this trek enjoyable.

Explanation of Trip Levels