November 6 – 25, 2011
From Kathmandu
Overview: Join us along with our friendly Nepali staff for an unforgettable adventure in a land of fabled mountains and ancient culture. Our trekking dates this year are Sunday, November 6 to Friday November 25, 2011 from our meeting point in Kathmandu, Nepal. We'll travel through Nepal staying in locally owned guest houses. In addition to trekking, the trip includes sightseeing in Pokhara and Kathmandu as well as an option to continue on to Chitwan. This is the classic introduction to Himalayan trekking and is designed for experienced hikers. It is a strenuous trek with a high pass crossing. There is exposure on the trails and on some bridge crossings. In addition, landslides or weather conditions may cause detours, delays or turning back. This will be an extremely enjoyable experience if you like physical activity and the outdoors. You must be prepared to "rough it" as conditions in Nepal are variable. Be prepared for weather changes, some rustic toilet facilities and the possibility of sickness.
Leadership: Our Leader is Marin Johannsson. She holds a B.S. in Recreation with a special emphasis in Outdoor Leadership. Marin has taught rock climbing, snow camping, rafting and canoeing. Trained in first aid, she has led many treks for us since 1990. When not on the trail, Marin also is a rafting guide and collects Tibetan Thangka paintings. Marin works closely with our local guide and dedicated staff members (cook, porters and assistants) to make this special trip a complete success. Ask us for references if you would like to talk to people who have traveled with them.
 | The Annapurna Massif contains |
PreTrip Days: Fly to Kathmandu, Nepal. Those in the Americas 'lose' one day crossing the international date line. Note that you must arrive in Kathmandu no later than Sunday, November 6, 2011. If you arrive early we can arrange a transfer and additional hotel nights for you on request.
Day 1: Group arrival in Kathmandu (4,423 feet). Your guide will meet you at the Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu. They will wait for you outside the arrival terminal so you will need to get your visa, collect your luggage and pass through Nepal customs on your own. Transfer to a delightful smaller hotel in the Thamel neighborhood of Kathmandu with attached bathrooms (hot showers), telephones, email, faxes, laundry service, a free safety deposit box and luggage storage. After a busy day of sightseeing or rest from jet lag, you can always lounge in the roof garden, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and city skyline.
After some time to settle in, we'll enjoy the late afternoon light at the Buddhist stupa of Swayambhunath (a stupa is a large dome and pyramid–like structure containing religious relics). Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple because of the large band of monkeys making it their home. Kathmandu Valley was once a huge lake. Legend has it that the hill on which the Monkey Temple stands was once an island. There is evidence that the great Buddhist Emperor, Ashoka, visited the site 2,000 years ago. Later today we savor a traditional Nepalese–style dinner. (Dinner)
Day 2: We enjoy guided sightseeing by car of the Kathmandu Valley. Places of interest include the Hindu temples and the burning ghats of Pasupatinath on the holy Bagmati River. Ghats are steps leading up from a river. There are, for example, bathing ghats where people wash themselves and their clothes. Burning ghats are where Hindus cremate dead bodies in readiness for disposal in the river. There is also an important Shiva temple at Pasupatinath. Shiva is the great destroyer and creator God of the Hindu religion. From Pasupatinath, we continue on to the nearby Buddhist stupa at Bodhnath — a truly impressive site. Pilgrims pray by circumambulating the large "all seeing eyes" of Buddha. Today is a good introduction to both Buddhist and Hindu religions. Dinner tonight is at a tasty Indian restaurant. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: It is a free day in Kathmandu! You'll have time to rest, check your gear, shop, acquaint yourself with the surroundings and learn a few words of Nepali. Our leader is making last minute preparations and arranging trekking permits today. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Today we drive to Khudi followed by a short trek to Bhulbhule. As the road from Kathmandu to Manang is under construction, our exact trailhead spot might slightly change by our starting date. Currently, our drive is along a dirt road to Khudi (2722 feet) in an all–terrain vehicle. Slow–going, it will require about 6 hours for the 110 mile journey! The small village of Khudi has few amenities, so we start trekking here once we arrive.
Heading along the left fork of Marshyangdi River, we soon reach Bhulbhule (2755 feet), where we will find inviting tea houses for food and accommodation. Driving time: six to seven hours. Trekking time: 40 minutes. Trekking ascent : 100 feet. Trekking descent: 50 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 2755 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Trek from Bhulbhule to Jagat (seven to eight hours): We cross the Marshyandi River and continue along its right fork. We soon pass some tropical trees and terraced fields. Soon we glimpse of first sights of one of the 8000er peaks, Mount Manaslu (26751 feet), as well as Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli. From Ngadi, our path climbs steadily to Bhaudanda — a small Hindu village at 4300 feet with shops and tea houses. From Bhaundanda our trail abruptly dips to 3,500 feet near Syange. We'll cross the Marsyandi River on a suspension bridge and continue along the peaceful river to the stone village of Jagat (4264 feet). Here we spend our second night under the stars. Ascent: 2000 feet. Descent: 1600 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 4262 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (five to six hours): From Jagat our trail descends, crossing Ghatte Khola Stream and climbs again through forest — finally reaching Chamje at 4,600 feet. From Chamje our path crosses to the east fork of Marsyangdi River. Soon we climb steep stone steps past the village of Sattale, past fields and Rhododendrons along the river bank and later climb to the open plateau of Tal (5576 feet). We continue gradually uphill, passing the villages of Khorte and Karte to finally reach larger Dharapani at 6100 feet. Ascent: 3100 feet. Descent: 900 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 6100 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (8 hours): We cross the river bridge past Thonje with a view of a narrow valley towards Larkyela (Manaslu Circuit). We soon pass a village school and climb gradually through a forest to the typical Tibetan–style village of Bagarchhap (7,100 feet). Remaining along the left bank of the river, we gradually climb to Dhanaque and continue past the villages of Temang, Lattamarang, and Kotho before finally reaching Chame — the largest village and headquarters of Manang District. Ascent: 4100 feet. Descent: 1,300 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 8700 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Trek from Chame to Pisang (six to seven hours): Our trail snakes through deep forest along a steep and narrow valley. At 10,000 feet, we cross a river on a long bridge and view our first sight of the dominating granite rock face of Paungda Danda. We climb for an hour through a peaceful forest before entering the broad Manang Valley. Crossing a cantilevered bridge, we climb gently while facing Annapurna IV and II. Our trail continues up to the sprawling village of Pisang at 10,500 feet. Ascent: 3,310 feet. Descent: 1,560 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 10,500 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Trek from Pisang to Manang (seven to eight hours): We now find ourselves in the dry upper section of the Manang District. From Pisang we head north of the Marsyangdi River to Mungji. If weather permits, we'll choose the scenic high route to two medieval cities, Ghyaro (12,050 feet) and Ngawald (almost 12,000 feet). The north face of Annapurna (12,040 feet), Lamjung Himal (22,740 feet), Annapurna III (24,787 feet) and Gangapurna (24,459 feet) punctuate our skyline view. Our path continues past Braga, a 500–year–old Gompa at 11,400 feet. Here we'll pause to see the collection of thangkas and statues before continuing to our destination of Manang (11,600 feet). Ascent: 3,700 feet. Descent: 2,600 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 11,600 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10: Air out those boots! Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Manang — a pleasant spot to spend this time. The locals herd yaks and raise crops for part of the year and continue to enjoy special trading privileges gained back in the year 1784. Today those rights are exercised with shopping sprees to Hong Kong and Singapore — where they buy electronics and modern equipment to resell for handsome profits in Nepal. Not surprisingly, they are shrewd traders — you are advised to buy with caution in Manang!
Spend this day resting to properly acclimatize for the remainder of the trek. Consider that, in the next days from Manang, it's an ascent of almost 6,500 feet before we reach Thorung La Pass! Try to rest and drink lots of water. Ascent: 0 feet. Descent: 0 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 11,600 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11: Trek from Manang to Churi Letdar (five hours): Today's trail climbs steadily through Tengi, leaving the Marsyangdi Valley behind and trekking within the Jarsang Khola Valley. We climb along a beautiful canyon studded with majestic, snow–covered peaks rising on all sides. We may see grazing Blue Sheep dotting the sparse vegetation as we reach Churi Letdar at 13,800 feet — the maximum altitude we should reach now for safe acclimatization. Ascent: 3,700 feet. Descent: 1,500 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 13,800 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12: Trek from Churi Letdar to Phedi (three hours): We descend along our trail, soon cross the river and resume climbing upwards to Phedi, at 14,600 feet. Phedi means "foot of the hill" and that's exactly where we are! At this point we'll check ourselves and each other for signs of proper acclimatization. Ascent: 1,920 feet. Descent: 600 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 14,600 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 13: Trek from Phedi to Muktinath (eight to ten hours): Our staff will wake us early with bed tea and biscuits. From Phedi we ascend steeply through snow–covered terrain. Fortunately, our path is used regularly and is quite visible. It can take from four to six hours before we reach the lofty 17,770 foot pass, but your efforts are well–rewarded.
Thorung La is studded by colorful prayer flags and a lone chorten, while all around us is perhaps the most breathtaking alpine skyline you might ever see. After we have taken photographs and our fill of the panoramic vista, it's a long, steep 5,200 foot descent before we finally take our day's rest at the town of Muktinath. Ascent: 3,810 feet. Descent: 5,510 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 12,500 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 14: Recovery and discovery in Muktinath today. Muktinath is a pilgrimage center for Buddhists and Hindus. We'll mingle with Tibetan traders as well as barefoot sadhus from across India. Local shrines include a Buddhist Gompa and the Vishnu temple of Jiwala Mayi. An old temple nearby shelters a spring and natural gas jets providing Muktinaths's famous "eternal flame." Also of are interest are the Lion Spouts. Ascent: 0 feet. Descent: 0 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 12,500 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 15: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni (three hours): From Muktinath (12,500 feet) we descend past crags and small streams to reach Khingar at 10,500 feet. From here it's a barren, high–altitude desert landscape to the town of Kagbeni (9,200 feet). Kagbeni is an interesting medieval town, offering fine views into the restricted region of Mustang. Today is an easy day with lots of free time to explore. Ascent: 810 feet. Descent: 4,110 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 9,200 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 16: Trek from Kagbeni to Marpha and return to Jomsom (seven hours): From Kagbeni we trek southwest to Jomsom, a major center at 8,921 feet. After lunch, we can visit a wonderful museum with displays of the history and culture of this area. We are now in the Thakali region, famous for their inns. It's often a windy walk as we continue on to Marpha (8,700 feet) — known for its apples you'll find later transformed into pies and brandy (Mmmmmmm). We later backtrack to Jomsom to bid the trail 'adieu'. A hot shower and comfortable bed await you as a well–deserved treat. Ascent: 2,500 feet. Descent: 3,050 feet. Sleeping Elevation: 8921 feet. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 17: After a good night's sleep, we take our early morning flight to Pokhara to relax by it's tranquil lake for the afternoon. Free time for shopping and rest today, with dinner on your own. (Breakfast)
Day 18: A free day in Pokhara. The mountain skyline beyond the lake is spectacular. Enjoy a view 'you don't have to work for' while exploring along the lakeshore. A choice of good restaurants make this a fine place to enjoy some free time — just don't eat too much. Tonight is our group farewell dinner! (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 19: Today we fly back to Kathmandu where we spend our final night before returning home tomorrow. Though the pace of the big city gives us a shock, it's a last chance for shopping and exploring the Thamal district before we depart. Lunch and dinner are on your own! (Breakfast)
Day 20: This morning will hold time for last minute shopping and a garden brunch. It is good to arrive at the airport early and avoid a rush. If you have more days to spend, don't forget wonderful local options such as a Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park (see a sample itinerary and Chitwan Park description at our "Nepal Safari Adventure" link on the "Organized Trips" page) or numerous city tours. Ask us about the many possibilities! (Brunch)
PostTrip Departure: Return travel home. Those in the Americas typically arrive home on the same day with the reverse travel across the International Date Line.
Important Notes: This is meant only as a guide to what our days will be like. Changes may be made as we go along. These depend upon local conditions, our acclimatization and health, etc. It should be noted that this is a challenging, high–altitude trek. Good health, a high level of fitness, and a positive attitude are a "must" to make it enjoyable. Sturdy vehicles will be provided to and from the road heads. However, this kind of travel is not for those who are prone to car sickness or who are afraid of heights. All of the areas to be visited are remote and there are no reliable sources of medical care outside of Kathmandu.
Travel Details: In case you arrange your own air travel, note that you must arrive in Kathmandu no later than Sunday, November 6, 2011 and you may not depart earlier than the afternoon of Friday, November 25, 2011. Also note that you can arrive early or stay late for more sightseeing options in Nepal. We can help to arrange your accommodations and tour needs along with guides and transportation. Ask us for specifics. Please refer to the booking information section of our application form for more information.
The Nepal Annapurna Circuit Trek • Administrative Details: | |
(+) Land Cost (land cost as itinerary has described): |
$2850USD |
(+) In-Trip Airfare Estimate (air during itinerary program): |
+ $200USD |
(=) Total Program Cost (Land & In-Trip Air costs combined): |
= $3050USD |
Trip Deposit (submit with application): | $250USD |
Single Supplement (optional single accommodation): |
$450USD (optional) |
Maximum Group Size: |
Eight Participants |
Other Cost & Need Considerations: |
Passport, Visa(s), Physicians Visit, Emergency Medical & Evacuation Insurance, Travel to/from Kathmandu (Nepal), Meals Beyond Above Itinerary, Beverages, Spending/Personal Money. |
Trip Activity–Level: |
Strenuous: Usually involves high-altitude hiking along rugged trails and crossing passes as high as 18,000 feet. Weather can be variable and snowfields may be encountered. Daily hiking is extensive — sometimes for as much as eight or nine hours. This trip is long in overall duration and are designed for experienced hikers who want to be challenged. No technical climbing skills are needed and days for rest are appropriately included, but overall this trip is arduous and meant for hearty hikers. |
Registration Deadline: |
September 6, 2011 ($100USD late fee thereafter) |
The Nepal Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Printable Itinerary: |
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Trip Application: |
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Need More Information? Email Us, we're nice: |
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