Nepal - Annapurna: The Sanctuary Trek itinerary

Day 1: Arrive into Kathmandu. Welcome meeting with your trip leader.

We recommend arriving early to take the opportunity of exploring the charming city of Kathmandu. Meet your trip leader and the rest of the group at the welcome meeting to receive a briefing for the adventure ahead.

(no meals)

Day 2: Take a guided tour of Kathmandu. Visit Sisterhood of Survivors Project.

This morning we start with an early morning walk to stretch the legs and experience the dawn chorus at the white-domed Swayambhunath Temple, one of the most enigmatic religious shrines in the valley. We will then have a guided tour of Durbar Square. For lunch, visit we will visit the Planeterra-supported Sisterhood of Survivors Project, a grassroots organisation that trains survivors of human-trafficking to become certified paralegals where we will be taught to make momos (traditional dumplings) and enjoy a lunch with our hosts. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu or visit the Bodhnath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Built in the 5th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site still attracts many pilgrims, particularly Tibetan Buddhists and local Nepalis.

(Lunch)

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Today we leave the Kathmandu valley behind, taking our private vehicle for the scenic drive to the enchanting Nepalese town of Pokhara (approximately 5 hours). Depending on our arrival time, there may be time to hire a small boat for a quick paddle on the lake to a enjoy particularly photogenic sunset.

(no meals)

Day 4: Transfer to Nayapul (1070m) and trek to Tikhedhunga (1480m).

We transfer to Nayapul (approximately 2 hours) and meet our trekking crew of sherpas. We then set off on our trek adventure, walking to Tikhedhunga. Leaving Nayapul, the trek begins with a flat hike through incredible mountain scenery, charming villages, and rhododendron forest. The fascinating culture of the Nepal countryside is the backdrop as the trek continues to Tikhedhunga.

5-6 hours, distance: 9km

(no meals)

Day 5: Trek from Tikhedhunga (1480m) to Ghorepani (2860m).

Today starts with a slow and steady ascent through woodland, with views of the Annapurna range stretching out ahead. Passing through dense forest, the route ends in Ghorepani, where there are incredible mountain vistas across the region.

6-7 hours, distance: 13km

(no meals)

Day 6: Climb Poon Hill (3210) and continue trek to Tadapani (2710m).

We climb Poon Hill this morning, one of the undoubted highlights of the whole trek. This summit is the objective for many shorter hikes in the Annapurnas. We can take in the incredible mountain scenery that lines the route from Ghorepani to Poon Hill. We trek through rhododendron forest, teeming with incredible birdlife, to get there. Upon reaching the hill station of Poon Hill, we can soak up the uninterrupted, panoramic views of some of the largest and most photogenic Himalayan mountains: Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna II and Lamjung. We retrace our steps before continuing on our trek to Tadapani. On a sunny day, the views to Machhapuchhare in particular are simply stunning.

6-7 hours, distance: 11km

(no meals)

Day 7: Trek from Tadapani (2710m) to Chhomrong (2170m).

Today’s route is one of varied ascents and descents on the way to Chhomrong. We pass through endless rhododendron forest, catching glimpses of looming snow-capped summits, and across broad farm terraces. If we are lucky, we will be able to observe Himalayan griffon vultures, soaring overhead on warm-air thermals. We continue upwards, past waterfalls and bridges, before arriving to Chhomrong.

4-5 hours, distance: 8km

(no meals)

Day 8: Trek from Chhomrong (2170m) to Himalaya Hotel (2920m).

If we wake early enough, we will be able to catch the sunrise over the Annapurnas before the trek begins today. We will cross many more suspension bridges and rhododendron forests as the route crisscrosses the valley. We will also pass through many villages and teahouses. On the way to Himalaya Hotel, the biome changes and the rhododendron gives way to bamboo and the views of Machhapuchhare become even more impressive.

6-7 hours, distance: 10km

(no meals)

Day 9: Trek from Himalaya Hotel (2920m) to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m).

Today marks a tough day of trekking to reach the highest point of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek at 4,130m. The route to Annapurna Base Camp passes through some open valleys and climbs steeply, with the vegetation replaced by snow-fields, to arrive into the Annapurna Base Camp. The south face of Annapurna stands before us, dominating the sky-line. The cirque creates a gigantic natural rock and ice amphitheatre and we can relax and enjoy the incredible views.

7-8 hours, distance: 10km

(no meals)

Day 10: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) to Bamboo (2340m).

We retrace our steps, returning from Annapurna Base Camp, past Machhapuchhare Base Camp and on to the village of Bamboo. This is an enjoyable day of trekking as we descend through the Sanctuary, passing through bamboo forests and across chutes of rock avalanche.

6-7 hours, distance: 14km

(no meals)

Day 11: Trek from Bamboo (2340m) to Jhinudanda (1800m).

Continuing to descend, we cross rivers and farmland on the way from Bamboo to Jhinudanda. On arrival, we can visit the nearby thermal springs, perfect for soothing those aching muscles.

5-6 hours, distance: 9km

(no meals)

Day 12: Trek from Jhinudanda (1800m) to Pothana (2005m).

The trek today goes through lush forest and across several bridges over the fast-flowing river below. The rich greenery of the area, with spectacular wildflowers in the right season, makes for a rewarding day trekking. Pothana is a lovely little village of teahouses and a fine place to stop.

7-6 hours, distance: 9km

(no meals)

Day 13: Trek to Phedi (1130m), where our trek ends. Drive back to Pokhara to celebrate the adventure we just completed.

It is the last day of the trek today, a short stroll from Pothana to Phedi. We would be well advised to look back, now and then, at the views of the high peaks of the Annapurnas as the trek winds through green fields and forests before joining up with the road from where we transfer back to Pokhara (approximately 1 hour).

2 hours, distance: 5km

(no meals)

Day 14: Return to Kathmandu for a well-earned celebration.

Today we return, via private vehicle, to Kathmandu (approximately 5 hours). We will have some free time for perhaps some last-minute shopping, or simply wander around the beautiful old Durbar Square or visit Bodhinath.

OPTIONAL: for those wanting to swap the scenic drive for a fast and convenient flight, leaving you with more time to Kathmandu, please get in touch!

Day 15: Depart at any time.

North Star Adventure services end. Depart at any time.