The Annapurna region of Nepal is widely renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with towering peaks such as Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri rising above lush forests, icy rivers, and tropical jungles. Despite its popularity, few trekkers venture off the beaten track to explore the remote villages and experience the authentic culture of the region. This trek offers the opportunity to stay in village communities, even in local homes, to gain first-hand experience of Nepalese life.
The trek includes visits to village weaving and paper-making workshops, as well as a yak farming project, and culminates in a visit to the sacred Khayer Lake, surrounded by shrines and the towering peak of Annapurna.
This is a moderately challenging trek that requires a reasonable level of fitness, with occasional strenuous days. Accommodation is basic and shared, with limited opportunities to wash clothing or oneself. Good hiking boots and socks are a must, and a durable daypack is needed to carry essential items. No technical experience or mountaineering gear is necessary, as porters will carry the majority of your luggage.
- Day 1 : Trek briefing and preparation day
- Day 2 : Fly to Pokhara (30 mins). Drive to Beni (817) approx 3 hours
- Day 3 : Trek Beni to Banskharka (1,526m), approx 3-4 hours
- Day 4 : Trek Banskharka to Nagi (2,320m), approx 5-6 hours
- Day 5 : Trek Nagi – Mohare Danda (3,320m), approx 6 hours
- Day 6 : Trek Mohare Dada to Swanta (2,300m), approx 7-8 hours
- Day 7 : Trek Swanta to Khopra (3,660m), approx 7-8 hours
- Day 8 : Rest day in Khopra or optional day hike to Khyer Lake (4,500m)
- Day 9 : Trek Khopra to Paudwar (2,000m), approx 6 hours
- Day 10 : Trek Paudwar to Tatopani (1,190m), approx 3 hours
- Day 11 : Drive Tatopani to Pokhara, approx 5 hours
- Day 12 : Pokhara to Kathmandu: Fly or drive to Kathmandu
- Note:
* The trek itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice.
Initiative Outdoor uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
Your trek cost does NOT include:
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Initiative Outdoors
