01/06/2023
Annapurna Base Camp Hiking
September-Octuber booking Open following out going trip itinerary day to day
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek-16 Days
Trek Grade: 2
Duration: 16 days
Trek Style: Tea House Trek
Best time to go: March – June / September-November
Trip Introduction
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a spectacular journey on foot to the South Face of Annapurna I - a pleasant hike through the ethnically diversified villages and forests assorted by flora and fauna. Explore the way upstream along the Modi Khola into the Annapurna Sanctuary, a valley surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks including the breathtaking Fishtail Peak-Machhapuchhare (6,993m/22,943ft). Experience the opportunity of watching sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges from P**n Hill as the bequest of the trip.
Commencing the trip with a day's brief visit to the ancient city of Kathmandu; we board on a bus to reach the pleasant city Pokhara for a comfortable overnight stay. Next day, after a short drive to Nayapul, we begin our trek and through Ulleri and Ghorepani. We march ahead to conquer photographer's paradise, the P**n Hill (3,210m/10,531ft) and capture the spectacular views in our camera. Traversing through valleys, villages, rivers, waterfalls, and forests and enjoying the magnificence view of nature, we conquest through Chhomrong that passes through more crystal clear views of the unconquered Machhapuchhare peak (6,993m/22,943ft) - tip of which resembles a fishtail. Our journey gets slightly more difficult during the ascent to the Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3,700m/12,139ft). The peaks of Annapurna-III (7,600m/24,934ft) and Annapurna-IV (7,400m/24,278ft) are visible from this point and the gigantic glacier of Machhapuchhare makes its presence felt. The next leg of the trek will take us to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft), a natural amphitheatre, a picture that will remain with us forever. The sunrise is another view of note as it gradually illuminates the peak of Annapurna-I (8,091m/26,545ft). While on this massive glacier, we can orchestrate a snowball fight or build a snowman. This spells the end of the experience of a lifetime bringing us down to ever green forests and rhododendron thickets of Jhinu Dada. The vicinity is also popular for its natural hot springs where we would love to take a dip in the soothing water heated by Mother Nature. Upon continuing trek to Naya Pul, we get back to Pokhara for a comfortable night's sleep.
The 16-day Annapurna Sanctuary itinerary is designed for the trekkers who are in good health with normal physical fitness. If we would like a less vigorous but a beautiful trek in the rural mountainside, Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition’s Annapurna sunrise Treks 9 Days would be ideal for us. If we love some adventure and are looking out for a more challenging trek in Annapurna Region, we definitely need to consider Pass trekking Annapurna Circuit Trek 21 Days that takes us to conquer the world famous high pass -Thorong La. If we prefer circuit trek in Annapurna in rather short period it is better to choose Annapurna Circle Trek 17 Days for the best.
Important Note and Optional Activities
Your safety is of paramount concern whilst traveling with Mike Nepal treks Expedition’s . Please note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, as this is adventure travel in remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it! Weather conditions, health condition of a member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival [1300m/4264ft]
Upon our arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be warmly greeted by a representative from Pass Trekking. After completion of our custom formalities (Visa, etc), we pick up our luggage. We will be then es**rted to Hotel 4star or a similar rating hotels in kathmandu. After check in, we can either take a rest or hang around in the city. It all depends upon our interests and condition. At the evening upon our reception, Mike NepalTrekes will organize a Welcome Dinner at an excellent traditional Nepalese restaurant where we enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal. Included meal: Dinner (D)
Note: B refers to Breakfast, L refers to Lunch and D refers to Dinner
Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today upon our breakfast, we will start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered the World Heritage Sites; including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the largest Stupas in the world. At the noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Mike Nepal Treks briefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Included meal: Breakfast (B)
Day 03: Kathmandu to Pokhara [823m/2,700ft]: 6 hrs drive
Early at dawn at around 7 am, we set off for Pokhara on a tourist bus. Enroute we will see more of countryside of Nepal that offers greeneries, rivers, villages, farms and beautiful mountain sceneries. Afternoon, we reach Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, the lake city offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. Pokhara is city of lakes and has numerous beautiful lakes. We can explore the most accessible and beautiful, Fewa Lake during the afternoon -enjoy boating too. Explore, relax and dine by tranquil Lake Fewa. We can even do some shopping during evening hours. Overnight in Pokhara. (B)
Day 04: Pokhara - Naya Pul-Ulleri [2050m/6725ft]: 1 hr drive and 6 hrs trek
Today we drive to Naya Pul to start our trek. From Naya Pul, we follow the south bank of the river. After several hours of trek, we will pass through sub tropical valley forests, sometimes on the carved trail on the side of the cliff. After lunch, we cross the Modi Khola (river) via a suspension bridge to the village of Tikhedhunga. We further trek along the trail quite steep at times. We reach Ulleri by late afternoon for overnight. (B, L, D)
Day 05: Ulleri - Ghorepani (2750m/ 9020ft): 4 - 5 hrs trek
We make our ascent to the Ghorepani village. The name Ghorepani in Nepali means horse-water owing to its role as an important campsite for traders before it became a trekker's stop. Ghorepani is an interesting place with small shops and stalls for selling local products and craft. The town has two parts: one in a saddle and the other a few hundred feet lower. Since Ghorepani lies quite higher than our previous stop, we begin to feel the chilly weather especially in the evenings. Overnight at Ghorepani. (B, L, D)
Day 06: Ghorepani - P**n Hill - Tadapani (2700m/8,860ft): 5 - 6 hrs trek
Today will be a special day because we conquer P**n Hill- an icon of Annapurna region. We climb the steep trail to the viewpoint of P**n Hill (3200mtrs). The efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views of Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Annapurnas. After taking photos and having some coffee or tea or hot chocolate, we return back to Gorepani. Upon breakfast, we head east and climb a nearby ridge. We descend through rhododendron forest, pass by spectacular waterfalls along the way and reach Tadapani for overnight. (B, L, D)
Day 07: Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170m/7120ft): 6 hrs trek
From Tadapani, we make a steep descent through the dense and dark forest. The route passes through the west bank of the Modi Khola. Then, we descent steeply down the village of Chuile coming over to the Kimrong Khola. Then, we continue a steep climb till to Chhomrong. Upon arrival at Chhomrong, we encounter with the mighty peak of Annapurna South, with the Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhare) facing it across the valley. Chhomrong is a beautiful village located on the lap of giant Annapurna massive. Overnight at Chhomrong. (B, L, D)
Day 08: Chhomrong to Dovan (2580m/8460ft): 6 hrs trek
Upon leaving behind Chhomrong along the Modi Khola, we will be at inhabited foothills into the high step and wooded slopes of Himalayas. We cross the suspension bridge then trek up to Sinuwa Danda. The ascent from Sinuwa becomes somewhat flatter. The trail passes through thick and dark arresting rhododendron forest up to Khuldighar. Then the trail passes through deep bamboo and rhododendron forest to the village of Dovan. (B, L, D)
Day 09: Dovan to Deurali (3230m/10,595ft): 4 hrs trek
The day starts with gentle gradual ascend following the trail above the river through a thick bamboo, oak and rhododendron forests up the side of the canyon. We cross two streams over small bridges. The trail further passes through solitary places. The nature's wilderness and solitariness give peace to our mind. There is also the possibility of seeing a variety of species of wildlife such as wild pig, deer, and snow leopard. Overnight at Deurali. (B, L, D)
Day 10: Deurali to Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3700m/12135ft): 3 - 4 hrs trek
Today we start our trek to Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC). The trail climbs gently through a river bed and then it rises steeply over the mountain side. There are also avalanche prone areas at some points on the trail. After about half an hour's walk from Deurali, we will find ourselves in middle of river bed surrounded by giant snow-covered mountains. When the sun rises, the snow on mountains shine and river valley is filled with warm sun rays. The hike to Machhapuchhare Base Camp is somewhat strenuous but the unfolding views of the majestic Machhapuchre are certainly a rewarding experience. Overnight at Machhapuchhare Base Camp. (B, L, D)
Day 11: Machhapuchhare Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,545ft): 2 - 3 hrs trek
On the way to Annapurna Base Camp from Machhapuchhare Base Camp, the vegetation disappears. We will encounter with the snow boulders melting and forming small streams. The path widens as we enter the Sanctuary, follows a stream, and then climbs to a few huts alongside a moraine. Upon arrival at this juncture, we will have sensational views of the near-vertical south face of Annapurna towering above the sanctuary. Annapurna Base Camp sanctuary boasts of a dynamic view without anything impeding panorama of the 360 degrees. The heart inspiring views of Machhapuchre, Annapurna south, Annapurna I, Hiuchuli and other peaks will be the boon of our hard efforts. Climax of our trip almost ends today! Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp (4130m/13550ft). (B, L, D)
Day 12: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m/7575ft): 6 hrs trek
At dawn, we relish the magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas from Annapurna Base Camp. Upon our breakfast, we start descending from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo back through Machhapuchre Base Camp, Deurali, Dovan and finally reach Bamboo. Heading back down to the valley is much easier than climbing up. We will see the waterfalls that drop down from a high point to the rocks below. We further pass through the forests with great views of Fishtail and Hiunchuli mountains. Overnight at Bamboo. (B, L, D)
Day 13: Bamboo to Jhinu Dada (1760m/5770 ft): 6 hrs trek
Upon our retreat from Bamboo, we trek back to Sinuwa and then descend to Lower Chomrong. Then again we ascend on the thousand stony steps taking us to Upper Chomrong. From Chomrong, we take a different route and instead of going to Ghandruk. We further descend to Jhinu Danda. Upon arrival at Jhinu Danda, we get opportunity to enjoy hot springs lying just a 15-min walk from Jhinu Danda. Overnight at Jhinu Dada. (B, L, D)
Day 14: Jhinu Dada to Naya Pul to Pokhara: 6 hrs trek 1 hr drive
At the beginning, we trek from Jhinu danda to New bridge and then to Kyumi village. After having lunch, we trek to Syauli bazzar and then down to Birethanti. Further, about an hour's trek from Birethanti we will be at Naya Pul. The trek ends at Naya Pul. From Naya Pul, we drive in a local available vehicle and reach in Pokhara within an hour. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we will have an opportunity to visit some more places around the lake city until evening. Overnight in Pokhara.(B, L)
Day 15: Fly Pokhara to Kathmandu: 30 minutes flight
Morning hours of today can be used very efficiently to visit some important spots within downtown of Pokhara. Some places in Pokhara are really worth visiting. We might do some last hours shopping as well. Around afternoon, we fly to Kathmandu. We catch left side of the airplane for the best views of Himalayas. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will be es**rted into our hotel. We either spend the day leisurely or perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping or explore any sights we missed during our first day in Kathmandu. At evening, we attend the celebration dinner together. Overnight stay in Kathmandu. (B, D)
Day 16: Final Departure
Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition’s. Escorts us to the airport for our flight time. Approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight, a representative from Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition’s will es**rt us to the airport and bid farewell greetings. On our way to home, we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country like Nepal. (B)
What's Included
• All airport/hotel transfers
• Three nights in 4-star hotel in Kathmandu ( Hotel Yak & Yeti or similar standard) and 1 nights in 2-3 star hotel in Pokhara (Both on B&B basis)
• Welcome and farewell dinner
• Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu with a tour guide and all temples/monuments entrance fees.
• All accommodation and meals during the trek
• Transportation: Kathmandu to pokhara by tourist bus or fly.
• 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
• All necessary paper work and permits (ACAP, Trekking permit)
• A comprehensive medical kit
• All government and local taxes.
What's Not Included
• Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs )
• Excess baggage charges
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
• Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara(and also in the case of early return from mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
• International and domestic flights (Pokhara to Kathmandu-$102)
• 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
The Trekking Group
For this trek, there will be one leader, assistant leader (4 trekkers:1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters for luggage carrying (2 trekkers:1 porter). This arrangement ensures that any body in the group is sick, the trip can still go ahead as planned. Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition’s can run the this trek for group of any size. But, Mike Nepal treks &
Expedition’s generally includes maximumof ten visitors as the company has found this to be the optimum size for a successful trip. However, if we would like to make a group booking for more than ten people together, Mike Nepal Treks &
Expedition’s can arrange this too.
A Typical Day On The Trail...
At dawn, our Sherpa knocks on our door and offers us a cup of warm tea with a smile. Upon our freshening tea, we pack our bags and assemble in the dining hall for a hearty breakfast before setting off on the day's trek. After approximately 2-3 hours of trekking, we take a break for lunch somewhere in the trail. Upon our relaxing lunch, we typically spend around 2-3 hours or even more sometimes on the trail before reaching our stopping point. Throughout the day, we will take frequent beaks and take time to admire the fascinating mountains views. We further take plenty of pictures of ourselves within incredibly panoramic mountains, rivers, landscapes, prayer flags, temples, shrines, cairns, and monasteries. Once we arrive at our tea house, we take a brief rest, shower, and have a light snack with tea or coffee. If we are so inclined, we may take a short walk through the village and surrounding neighborhood. Upon our check into room, we have time to read or chat with fellow trekkers as well as Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition’s crew members. Following a warm dinner in a cozy dining hall, our trek leader briefs us the next day's itinerary. Overhear, we order for breakfast. Upon our extra time, we enjoy reading, drinking, and playing cards. Mike NepalTreks & Expedition’s crew member loves to teach various kinds of Nepali card games as well as learning new western games. Finally, it is off to bed for a well earned night's rest before starting all over again the next day.
Equipments & Packing List
While packing for Annapurna Circle Trek certain equipments are essential. Please checklist.
Equipments & Packing List for Annapurna Circle Trek
We are advised to consider the following equipments as essentials while packing for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Adjustments to the list can be managed according to our requirements, interests, duration of trip, and season of trip. We can find variety of these gears to hire or buy in Kathmandu. Majority of the gears which are in sale in Kathmandu are locally manufactured (hence a lot cheaper) and some gears found here are imported from China and are obviously of better quality. We can find very high quality branded gears too in some famous stores in Kathmandu.
The gears in the list below with an asterisk (*) are also served by Mike Nepal treks & Expedition’s inclusively in the service. But if we offer to choose or like to use our own private piece, Mike Nepal Treks &
Expedition’s encourages to bring our own. Please remember that at the start of the trek, apart from our day pack, our luggage that will be carried by porters should have weight limitation of approximately 33 pounds or 15 kg.
Head:
- Sun hat or scarf
- Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Lower Body:
- Under Garments
- Hiking shorts
- Lightweight cotton long pants
- Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
- Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
Leader(s) & Staff Arrangements
The most significant thing that makes our trek successful, enjoyable and memorable is the skilled, experienced, courteous and helpful trek leader and the crew members with ability of operating our days in the mountain smoothly. Our trip will be led by the best and most professional leaders. All of Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition. trekking leaders are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, leadership skills and personal aptitude. With an objective of sustaining local communities Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition only employs Nepalese staffs who have adequate knowledgeable about culture, ecosystem, flora, fauna, geography, and history of Nepal. Trek leaders of Mike Nepal Treks & Expedition are also trained with following trainings to make them educated on potential medical issues during their trek, biodiversity and environmental issues, and English language etc:
• Intensive Wilderness First Aid
• Trekking Guide Training
• Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet
• English Language
• Conservation and Biodiversity
• Rock climbing, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (for expedition leaders)
Best Season
Autumn (mid Sept to mid Dec) and Spring (March to May) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather is sunny and warm, with outstanding views but the nights are cold and can fall to freezing point. Winter (Dec, Jan, Feb) is also good for Annapurna Base Camp Trek, only colder (obviously). The trekking routes are crowded during Spring and Autumn but during winter the routes are not packed and we could enjoy rather best of nature.
http://mikenepaltrek.com.np
+44-074044440704 UK
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