Himalayan Shangri –la tour

Overview:

Known as the Himalayan Shangri –la this two week journey takes you through Nepal most authentic and exhilarating journey. Eagerly starting off from the sightseeing tour of Patan Durbar Square swiftly moves toward Kakani that offers magnificent views of the Kathmandu Valley. Tingled with richness and tradition, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Nagarkot welcome you with its authentic heritage and aspiring views.

Similarly, Pokhara offers a magnificent view of the Himalayas that trench among the high altitude. We reach Muktinath on the 12th day of the trip which holds great importance for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is believed that the great sage Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated here and is considered one of the main attractions. 

Length: 391km

Days: 16

Highest point: Muktinath (3760m)

Difficulty Level: Easy

Highlights:

·         Classic trek- popularly known as Himalayan Shangri-la

·         Access to the high mountains of the Himalayas within a reasonable timeframe

·         25 minutes scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom

·         Ideal trek throughout the year as the route stays at a low altitudes

·         Passes through Muktinath- one of the most sacred holy sites of Hindus and Buddhists

·         Passes through the world’s deepest gorge of Kali Gandaki

·         Panoramic view of Mt. Annapurna1(8091), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Mt. Nilgiri (7061m)

·         Unforgettable sunrise and sunset views along with majestic peaks of the Himalayas including Mount Everest from Nagarkot

·         Geo thermal hot Spring Bathing Pool in Tatopani

·         Saligram” fossil can be found at the river bank of Kaligandaki which is considered incarnation of God Bisnu

·         Explore Thakali villages and culinary art of Thakali people

·         Highly recommended for luxury trekkers

Trip Notes

Daily Notes: As we start our trip, Kathmandu gives you the taste and feel of modern city but as you go deep inside, then you will know the relevance and importance of its cultural heritage. Generally the first 3 days will be easy within the comfort of Hotel Annapurna and its amenities.  The first few days, you will be introduced to the local culture and cultural heritage with a sightseeing tour of Patan Durbar Square, Bungmati, Bhaktapur durbar square and Khokana.  Then the trip slightingly takes its turn with visiting places like Kakani, Nagarkot, adapting you to the hilly region giving you a chance to know and understand the climatic behavior of the region.

Moving on, the 5th day welcomes you with Pokhara as an urban tourist hub. From here we start our trek towards Nayapul by a shared a/c car.

On trekking trips, you will be woken up between 6-7 am for the breakfast and after breakfast you walk for 2, 3 hours. Lunch is generally served at 11 am on trail. You will get about an hour’s break during lunch when you can rest, write a diary, talk or do anything you like. After lunch, we walk for 2 to 3 hours and reach to camp late afternoon.  During the trekking it is highly important for any individual to adapt and acclimatize, most of your day will engage in trekking, and resting.

Accommodation: Accommodation varies according to place, time and situation. During this program you will be placed at Annapurna Hotel for the first 3 days in Kathmandu. In Nagarkot you will stay at the Club Himalaya. Similarly, in Pokhara you will stay at the Temple Tree Resort.  During the trekking one can choose what they like on the basis of their budget. Lodges and hotels are easily available but it is highly recommended to be with the team. All accommodation cost is covered in the program fee.

Meals:  In this program lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not available; the client has to bear the cost of lunch and dinner. One can easily drop by any of the near restaurants and enjoy the selected menu.  Wide ranges of foods are available in the city area according to taste and preferences. But during the trekking the program fee covers the cost and offers comprehensive meals 3 times a day. A trekker has to bear all his personal expenses including souvenirs, laundry, optional sightseeing etc.

 
Flights: Flights schedule are not so regular in Nepal due to climatic fluctuation so it is wise to confirm your flight a day before. Delay and cancellation may be of a few hours or a couple of days. During the program in case of any flight delays all accommodation and food are managed for you by the company. You will however be liable for costs arising from delay of flight. In case of flights being delayed from remote airstrips due weather or technical difficulties, most itineraries have a spare day built in to absorb such delay. Longer delays may make require helicopter evacuation necessary, but such delays can usually be claimed through travel insurance.

High Altitude Sickness: This program goes through a wide variation of attitude starting from Kathmandu (1400m) to Nagarkot (2163m) to Pokhara (827m) to Kalopani (2609m) to Muktinath (3760m) to Jomsom (2743m). It is highly recommended for every participant to be relaxed and not to hide any sort of physical deformity or problems. Guests may suffer from altitude sickness if they travel rapidly to elevations above 3,000 meters. Most itineraries are however geared to make a reasonable ascent minimizing altitude sickness possibilities.  Typical symptoms of altitude sickness are persistent headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, disorientation and loss of balance, persistent cough and difficulty in breathing. Our guides and tour leaders will be monitoring group health on all treks that take us to altitude, and though not common, it is sometimes necessary to take clients off trek and descend to lower altitudes for their safety.

Weather: The weather may change drastically during the program.  Due to the huge fluctuation of altitude and geographical location, climate and weather remains an unpredictable factor. It may be freezing or very low which may drop to -20 degree Celsius during the evening, night and early morning. The daytime temperatures may be generally between 20- 35 degree Celsius. The weather can change and snow fall may occur at any time at higher altitudes.

Tips: The culture of giving tip is not new in Nepal. A tip is generally given at an end of journey in appreciation of the services you receive. Visitors themselves should decide how much money they want to give as tips to porter, guide or team leader. Tour leaders may also organize a group’s tips kitty and at an end of journey you need to give tip to the tour leaders. Besides tips, visitors can help the porters by giving them mountain clothing and other useful items like water and wind resistant jackets, pants, warm hats, gloves, sunglasses, spare kit etc.

Visa information: Travelers can apply for Nepalese visa from Nepalese embassy or consulate office situated nearby. They can also get a visa from Tribhuvan International Airport or from any other entry point in Nepal if they have no time to visit an embassy, or are not travelling from their home country. Visitors should have a few sets of photos, a passport, and required money to apply for visa.

Note: All visas sold on arrival are multiple entry visas and are available to cover 3 different durations of visit: US$25 for 15 days, US$40 for 30 days, and US$100 for 90 days. Please ensure you purchase the duration sufficient to cover your whole visit including days of entry and exit. Please do note that these durations refer to each country into Nepal e.g. 15 days for each entry.

Visa extensions: Visitors can extend their visas from the immigration offices of Kathmandu and Pokhara only. They need to pay US $30 for 15 days extension, US $ 5 per day after 15 days and US$50 for multiple- entry visa. If visitors overstay then they need to pay a fine of US$3 per day if they overstay less than 30 days (plus a US$2 per day visa extension fee).

Health and travel insurance: Visitors should visit their personal physician or health clinic 4 or 8 weeks before coming to Nepal and vaccinate themselves. Travel and medical insurance is a must, and should include coverage for emergency flights and medical expenses.

Vaccination: Visitors must visit their personal physician or health clinic 4 or 8 weeks before coming to Nepal and vaccinate themselves though vaccination is not compulsory. However vaccinations are recommended for the protection.

Note: Some vaccinations are prohibited for the pregnant women and people with allergies.

• Hepatitis A: The vaccination of Hepatitis A is recommended for all visitors which provide long-term immunity.
• Hepatitis B: This vaccination too is advised to all travelers. Three intramuscular doses are given in 0, 1 and 6 months.
• Influenza: This vaccination is given annually to prevent flu.
• Japanese B encephalitis (JBE): JBE vaccination is given three times over 3 to 4 weeks which avoids mosquito- borne vital encephalitis. Generally it is recommended for the travelers who travel to the Terai and other rural areas.
• Meningococcal meningitis:  This vaccination is recommended for the prolonged stays.
• Polio: Polio is generally given in childhood. But if visitors have not taken it at their childhood then it is recommended vaccination for them.
• Rabies: Rabies is especially transmitted by street dogs and monkeys. It is strictly recommended for children and other visitors who are at the high risk of animal bites or direct contact with bats.
• Tuberculosis (TB): Most people of the west are given this vaccination in their childhood. But if they are not vaccinated, it is suggested vaccination for them.
• Typhoid: Typhoid vaccine is available as an injection and capsules which is recommended for all visitors because Typhoid fever is growing problem of Nepal.
• Yellow fever: The travelers who come from Africa, America and other yellow fever infected area should take vaccine for yellow fever.
• Tetanus diphtheria: Tetanus or diphtheria vaccine should be taken in every 10 years.
• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR): This vaccination is recommended for all the travelers born after 1956 but not for pregnant women or severely immune compromised individuals.
• Cholera: Cholera is spread because of polluted drinking water. It is only recommended for the high-risk individuals like health travelers and people who travel to remote areas.

Packing tips:

• Warm clothes for cold weather, including a set or two of thermal inner wear.
• Water and wind proof outer shell jacket and pants.
• Walking clothes like lightweight loose trousers, shorts and comfortable and cool shirts.
• Rain ponchos, wool socks, broken in walking boots, long trousers, warm hats, gloves, bandana, trekking poles, cap/hat for walking in the sun
• Sleeping bags if you have them.
• Travelers wearing lenses should carry plenty of lenses solution and backup prescription glasses.
• Sunglasses or ski glasses if walking in snow or high altitudes.
• Basic first aid kit and personal medication.
• Sunscreen and sun hat help from sun
• Water purifiers like iodine tablets, filters etc.
• Headlamps with spare batteries.
• Hand sanitizers.
• Photocopies of passports and other important documents
• A travel guide book and map
• Cameras and carrying cases
• For a comprehensive packing list, see (link to site on trekking FAQ).

FAQS

How to enter Jomsom?

Jomsom is a tourist hub and every year hundreds of travelers and adventure enthusiasts come here for trekking. Pokhara city is the gateway to this program and the trek starts from Nayapul.

When is the best time to go for this trek?

This trekking program is feasible from March to May and September to November. December to February is considered adventurous and is recommended for travelers who like try their limits.

What is kinds of cloths should I pack for this program?
Depending upon the time and season you need to confirm you clothing, but with a package that includes a lot of travelling, you should pack wisely including all you comfortable clothes.  

What is the necessary documents do I need to bring for this trip?

Please bring Valid Passport, Travel insurance with  a separate photocopy, Return flight tickets, Insurance coverage policy, Cash and Traveler’s Checks, Emergency contact numbers for T/C’s, banks, insurance, family contacts.

How many hours do we walk during trek?

This trekking goes through 391 KMs within the 16 days of variation of altitude. Averagely you will walk from 4 to 5 hours daily.  

What level of physical fitness do I need for the trip?

On average you will need to walk from 4 to 5 hours, you need to be in a top physical condition. The trek goes through lots of uphill and downhill in the mountain. So a trekker must have health and physical fitness for completing this trek. However, no climbing training is needed as there is no climbing involve during this trip.

Is there any cultural shock that I should be prepared for?
Nepal is a developing country and trekking in the remote region you should be careful about your attires, language and behavior. People in these regions are very hospitable but they have zero tolerance level in regards to nudity and obscenity.

Is it recommended to get Nepalese visa in advance or at the airport?

It is highly recommended to acquire Visa in advance then to obtain it at arrival. During arrival though the Nepal practices an easy visa policy but may face queue problem depending on time and situation.

Note: If you are staying for more than 15 days, don’t forget to ask visa for 30 days.

Where do we stay in the mountain? Do we need to bring tent and mat?

 No, you do not need to bring tent and mat. During the program most of the accommodation is covered by the program fee. While in Kathmandu accommodation is done at Hotel Annapurna and in Pokhara you will be accommodated at Temple Tree Resort. Similarly, during the trekking you will be accommodated at local lodges.  

Adventurous Bungy Jump:

Adventurous Bungy Jump:

Nepal offers the most exciting and one of the longest free fall in the world. It is a unique and incredible experience, standing on the edge of the metal suspension bridge, staring down at a vertical drop of 525 feet.  The adrenalin rush takes over through your body and you feel invincible.  You watch the river floor slowly come up to meet you as you are lowered to the bottom, get unstrapped, and sit, accompanied by the mildest tremble perhaps, and grin as you hear the next jumper scream like a little girl. Ultimate bungee is Nepal’s ultimate rush and the most spectacular jump on the planet.

Length: 101 km

Days: 1

Highest point: The Last Resort (2,750m)

Difficulty Level: Moderate  

Highlights:

·         The longest free fall in the world

·         Outstanding 160m drop into Bhoti Kosi River-one of Nepal’s wildest river

·         Designed, constructed and operated by very experienced Kiwis to exacting international standards

·         Impeccable and untarnished safety record

·         Nepal's Ultimate Rush and the most spectacular jump on the planet

·         Highly recommended for adrenaline junkies

Important Information

1.      During Bungy jump, do not use alcoholic beverages

2.      Small hiking of half an hour is required to reach the top of the bridge

3.      Prior jumping a small physical test is conducted

4.      For safety measures, every individual’s weight is proportionately balanced with the thickness of the Bungy cord 

5.      During the jump, it is not advised to put an items in your pockets

6.      Prior Bungy it is not advised to have food

FAQs:

1.      How far is the Bungy jumping site located?

Bungey jumping site is located 100 km outside Kathmandu near the Tibetan Border. It takes 3 hours to reach there. From the base you have to hike for half an hour to reach the Bungy jumping bridge.

During Bungy can I touch the water?
Due to safety measure you won’t be able to touch the water

What should I wear during the Bungy?
During the Bungy, we advise not to wear any ornaments or heavy clothes, just be comfortable in what you wear.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Yes, you need to be in a healthy condition. Prior the jumping, its compulsion to take weight test and to check your blood pressure.

What is the altitude of the Bungy jumping?
3600 feet

How safe is Bungy in Nepal
The Bridge is Swiss designed, especially for bungy jumping with a 4x safety factor. The bridge has a loading factor of 41,500kg or 4.5 tonnes. And those are Swiss measurements! The Bungy Bridge is the longest in Nepal and also the only privately owned bridge. Before its construction, locals walked five hours to cross this river gorge.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Renowned for its toughness and beauty, Annapurna Base Camp is an exclusive trekking package. Also known as the ABC trek, it covers rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of Nepal. After arrival in Kathmandu, you will spend your first day wandering among ancient monuments and bustling colorful marketplaces and squares.

Moving on Annapurna Base Camp welcomes you with degree dramatic views of the Himalayas. During the trek, each day welcomes you with a set of new exhilaration that rewarded as one of the vast range of diversified landscape on earth. As you further move inside the Annapurna region within every few kilometer distance you will be passing through subtropical to high alpine vegetation zones. About 101 mammals, 39 reptiles, 22 amphibians, 478 species of birds, 9 types of rhododendrons, 38 orchids and 1226 varieties of wild plants are well protected.

Days: 13

Highest point: Thorung La (Pass) – 5416 m

Difficulty Level: Easy

Highlights:

·         One of the top ten trekking destinations in the world

·         Classic walk right into the heart of the mountains

·         Himalayan Mountain flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara return

·         Fascinating glimpse into unique hill cultures of atmospheric village of Landrung

·         Expedition  into an uninhabited wilderness area

·         Ultimate thrill of trekking in the massif Annapurna Mountains range with some of the world’s highest Mountains; Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manalsu, and Mt. Annapurna

·         Passes through world’s highest Throng la pass

·         Spectacular views of 10 mountains above 6,000m and stunning 360 degree views at Annapurna base camp.

·         Comfortable accommodation, camp life and local cuisine

Trip notes:

A typical day: Generally, on camping trips, you will be woken up between 6-7 am with a cup of tea and bowl of hot water for washing. You wash and get ready, and before breakfast pack your gear into your kitbag which will be carried by a porter. You will get your kitbag in the afternoon when we reach camp. Breakfast will be outdoors or in the dining tent, and after breakfast you walk for 2, 3 hours. Lunch is generally served at 11 am on trail. You will get about an hour break during lunch when you can rest, write a diary, talk or do anything you like. After lunch, we walk for 2 to 3 hours and reach to camp late afternoon. All tents and gear are already set up by the time you arrive, and you are greeted at camp with tea and snacks. Stow your gear in your tent where your kit bag will also be waiting, and freshen up before dinner, again served in the dining tent. On teahouse treks, it’s pretty much the same routine but you have rooms to sleep in, a dining room to eat in (often with food you can order of the menu) and proper toilets with running water and showers. Lunch on teahouse treks are on lodges on the way.

Accommodations

All accommodations for the trek are on twin sharing basis with inclusive cost and are chosen based on standard of hygiene, standard of service and food, and location quality. We will spend four nights in Hotel Shanker and during our trekking we will spend nine nights in local tea house or lodge in which there are unheated rooms with wooden beds and foam mattresses. Tea houses or lodges generally have shared washing and toilet facilities.

Meals

During our Annapurna Base Camp Trek, 3 meals are provided a day where as during your stay in Kathmandu only breakfast is provided.  One can enjoy typical Nepali food, different ethnic cuisines as well as all types of international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.) from pizza and Chips to apple pie. We can even enjoy hot chocolates, variety of breads, variety of drinks, and snacks. Breakfast of a day will be served from the tea house or from a lodge menu where we spent night. Lunch will be served on the way to destination, dinner and breakfast will be served in the tea house where we spend the night.

Acclimatization

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the major threats while trekking in a high altitude region. People have lost their lives due to carelessness shown in regards to less prioritizing the acclimatization process. The program is designed understanding the geographical structure where we move up the trip with slow and steady pace. So for a safe trek, it is absolutely essential to allow sufficient time for acclimatization. We take frequent breaks and on the seventh day we completely rest for a day. Most importantly our guides and trip advisor keep a watch of the trekkers 24/7.

High Altitude Sickness: a trekker may suffer from altitude sickness in the region as the altitude varies drastically. Typical symptoms of altitude sickness are persistent headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, disorientation and loss of balance, persistent cough and difficulty in breathing.  As soon as the symptoms are seen immediate response needs to be addressed. A medical evacuation by helicopter or the use of a Hyperbaric chamber (Gamov bag) is the possible solution.  Our guides and tour leaders will be monitoring group health on all treks that take us to altitude, and though not common, it is sometimes necessary to take clients off trek and descend to lower altitudes for their safety.

Weather: The climate may be freezing or very low which may drop to -20 degree Celsius during the evening, night and early morning. The daytime temperatures may be generally between 20- 35 degree Celsius. The weather can change and snow fall may occur at any time at higher altitudes.

Health and travel insurance:
Visitors should visit their personal physician or health clinic 4 or 8 weeks before coming to Nepal and vaccinate themselves. Travel and medical insurance is a must, and should include coverage for emergency flights and medical expenses.

Vaccination: Visitors must visit their personal physician or health clinic 4 or 8 weeks before coming to Nepal and vaccinate themselves though vaccination is not compulsory. However vaccinations are recommended for the protection.

Note: Some vaccinations are prohibited for the pregnant women and people with allergies.

• Hepatitis A: The vaccination of Hepatitis A is recommended for all visitors which provide long-term immunity.
• Hepatitis B: This vaccination too is advised to all travelers. Three intramuscular doses are given in 0, 1 and 6 months.
• Influenza: This vaccination is given annually to prevent flu.
• Japanese B encephalitis (JBE): JBE vaccination is given three times over 3 to 4 weeks which avoids mosquito- borne vital encephalitis. Generally it is recommended for the travelers who travel to the Terai and other rural areas.
• Meningococcal meningitis:  This vaccination is recommended for the prolonged stays.
• Polio: Polio is generally given in childhood. But if visitors have not taken it at their childhood then it is recommended vaccination for them.
• Rabies: Rabies is especially transmitted by street dogs and monkeys. It is strictly recommended for children and other visitors who are at the high risk of animal bites or direct contact with bats.
• Tuberculosis (TB): Most people of the west are given this vaccination in their childhood. But if they are not vaccinated, it is suggested vaccination for them.
• Typhoid: Typhoid vaccine is available as an injection and capsules which is recommended for all visitors because Typhoid fever is growing problem of Nepal.
• Yellow fever: The travelers who come from Africa, America and other yellow fever infected area should take vaccine for yellow fever.
• Tetanus diphtheria: Tetanus or diphtheria vaccine should be taken in every 10 years.
• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR): This vaccination is recommended for all the travelers born after 1956 but not for pregnant women or severely immune compromised individuals.
• Cholera: Cholera is spread because of polluted drinking water. It is only recommended for the high-risk individuals like health travelers and people who travel to remote areas.

Packing tips:

• Warm clothes for cold weather, including a set or two of thermal inner wear.
• Water and wind proof outer shell jacket and pants.
• Walking clothes like lightweight loose trousers, shorts and comfortable and cool shirts.
• Rain ponchos, wool socks, broken in walking boots, long trousers, warm hats, gloves, bandana, trekking poles, cap/hat for walking in the sun
• Sleeping bags if you have them.
• Travelers wearing lenses should carry plenty of lenses solution and backup prescription glasses.
• Sunglasses or ski glasses if walking in snow or high altitudes.
• Basic first aid kit and personal medication.
• Sunscreen and sun hat help.
• Water purifiers like iodine tablets, filters etc.
• Headlamps with spare batteries.
• Hand sanitizers.
• Photocopies of passports and other important documents
• A travel guide book and map.
• Cameras and carrying cases
• For a comprehensive packing list, see (link to site on trekking FAQ)

FAQs:

 How do we enter Annapurna Region?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Pokhara which is about 25 minutes from Kathmandu by air and is 5 hrs away on drive. From Pokhara we drive to Kande, it’s from Kande where we start our trek inside the Annapurna region.

What is ACAP?

ACAP stands for Annapurna Conservation Area Project of 7,629 km2 area, the first and largest conservation area in Nepal. Annapurna Conservation Area was established in 1985 and gazette in 1992. It is implemented across Manang, Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi and Lamjung districts.

When is the best time to go to Annapurna Circuit with ABC Trek?

Trekking in the Annapurna reason is feasible during autumn (September to December) and spring (March, April & May) seasons. The winter Dec, Jan and Feb is also recommended for this trek as it goes maximum height of 5416 m, sometimes we may expect foggy weather as well.

What is the Visa application process?

Travelers can apply for Nepalese visa from Nepalese embassy or consulate office situated nearby. They can also get a visa from Tribhuvan International Airport or from any other entry point in Nepal if they have no time to visit an embassy, or are not travelling from their home country. Visitors should have a few sets of photos, a passport, and required money to apply for visa.

What kind of equipments do we need for trekking?

We highly recommend you to travel light; carrying loads of stuff can be hectic as well as energy consuming. We recommend you to bring only the necessary things that you need in your daily life. Following equipments are recommended like. Down Sleeping Bag, Down Jacket, Long sleeved shirt, Jumper or fleecy jacket, T-shirts, Trekking shoes or boots, Comfy shoes for around the camp, Polypropylene/wool socks, Light cotton socks for under wool socks, Rucksack, Sun hat, Woolen hat, Gloves, Sun block, lipbalm , Goggles or sunglasses, Long underwear, Thermal wear, Insulated pants Nylon windbreaker, Nylon wind pants, Water bottle, Sewing kit, Medical & first aid kit, Flash light, Batteries and bulbs, Swiss army knife, Towel and toiletries etc.

What if I get sick while on trek?

In any case of emergency or disease, our program associates first try to deal with general medicine. If the case takes chronic stage depending upon the time and situation we air lift the patient consulting with your Insurance Company and rescue you.

Annapurna Circuit Trek:

Challenging human strength and limitation, Annapurna Circuit trek is a complete trekking package that offers adventure, and scenic views. Due to its popularity, this trek has been rated as one of the top ten treks in the world. It starts off with a warm lowland trek through villages that offers you a glimpse of local culture. We will initially follow the river Marshyangdi upstream along an easy trail that undulates over and around hills and gradually gains height. The higher we get the more the scenery changes, and also the culture and ethnic makeup of local people amazes you with their rich culture and tradition. By the sixth day of trekking, we will be in the high alpine valley of Manang, surrounded by snow capped peaks to the south, barren moonscape hills to the north.

We come across typical villages; ancient monasteries and High Mountain pass thorung la, to leave Manang valley, and Kali Gandaki valley to Muktinath. We make a long steady descent passing apple orchards and quaint whitewashed villages ending the descent at the hot springs of Tatopani. Poon Hill then welcomes you with a dazzling Dhaulagiri range. From here it's a scenic descent through Gurung villages and eventually for a well earned rest at the pretty lakeside town of Pokhara

Length:

Days: 23

Highest Point: Thorung La (Pass) – 5416 m

Difficulty Level: Easy

Highlights:

·         One of the top 10 trekking destinations in the world

·         Complete circuit of Annapurna Mountain Ranges

·         Passes through one of the most sacred holy sites of Hindus (Muktinath)

·         Passes via one of the most sacred holy sites of Hindus (Muktinath)

·         Hike over challenging pass of Thorung la at 5416 meter

·         Passes through the deepest gorges on the planet of Kali Gandaki River

·         Geo thermal hot Spring Bathing Pool in Tatopani

·         Superb  vistas of 7000 and 8000 meter peaks including Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges

·         Explore Mustang-the last forbidden kingdom and Bonpo Religion in action at Thini and Lupra villages

·         Walk around the high alpine valley of Manang

·         World's classic, most diverse and stunning teahouse treks

Trip notes:

A typical day:

Generally, on camping trips, you will wake up at 6 or 7 am with a cup of tea and bowl of hot water for washing. You wash and get ready, and before breakfast pack your gear into your kitbag which will be carried by a porter. You will get your kitbag in the afternoon when we reach camp. Breakfast will be outdoors or in the dining tent, and after breakfast you walk for 2, 3 hours. Lunch is generally served at 11 am on trail. You will get about an hour break during lunch when you can rest, write a diary, talk or do anything you like. After lunch, we walk for 2 to 3 hours and reach to camp late afternoon. All tents and gear are already set up by the time you arrive, and you are greeted at camp with tea and snacks. Stow your gear in your tent where your kit bag will also be waiting, and freshen up before dinner, again served in the dining tent. On teahouse treks, it’s pretty much the same routine but you have rooms to sleep in, a dining room to eat in (often with food you can order of the menu) and proper toilets with running water and showers. Lunch on teahouse treks are on lodges on the way.

Accommodation: For the first two days you will be accommodated in Shanker Hotel with only breakfast. You have to manage you Lunch and dinner where you need not to worry as restaurants and dinning places are available within corners.  On ‘tea house’ treks, we use lodges which though comfortable, may be basic compared to European standards.  Most lodges on trek offer wholesome food, comfortable to basic rooms and common hot showers and toilets. Some use solar water heaters but these are entirely dependent on fine weather, so you cannot always rely on them. Meals are served in a common dining hall. On camping trips, we will have our own chosen campsites. Often on private campsites with showers rooms and toilets, but also often we stay in wilderness, which consist of a dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent and two person tents for sleeping.

Meals: With this package you get 21 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 19 dinners. The menu varies daily and in teahouse treks you can choose food from the lodge menu, while on camping trips, the kitchen turns out comprehensive meals 3 times a day, besides tea and afternoon. Beside included meals, guests need to pay for packaged and alcoholic drinks they may purchase, as well as for souvenirs, laundry, optional sightseeing. The prices of meal and drinks may be different in different locations.

Money: All meals and accommodation are covered by within trip cost, but you carry spending money while on trek to take care of purchases you may make on journey. About 4000 Nepali Rupees per person per day should be adequate in most cases. There are no ATM’s on most treks, the only ATM’s are in Kathmandu city or in larger towns or cities, so it’s best to carry cash on trek.  It is recommended you use a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of cash and other valuable items, and though our staffs are trustworthy, the ultimate responsibility for safekeeping of money rests with the guest. American dollars and Indian rupee are easily accepted in most of the places and all major banks of Nepal and licensed money exchangers can exchange hard currencies into Nepali rupee. Indian 500 and 1,000 rupee notes are not accepted in Nepal.  Credit cards are not accepted by all businesses, restaurants, or hotels and you should check with your guide about where you may or may not use them. Traveler’s cheque, visa card, master card and other international cards are easily accepted in Kathmandu but may not be accepted while on trek.


High Altitude Sickness: Since this trip goes with in a variation of altitude changes, one has to be careful. The highest point during this trekking is at Thorung La (Pass) which 5416 m. Guests may suffer from altitude sickness if they travel rapidly to elevations above 3,000 meters. Most itineraries are however geared to make a reasonable ascent minimizing altitude sickness possibilities.  Typical symptoms of altitude sickness are persistent headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, disorientation and loss of balance, persistent cough and difficulty in breathing.  The immediate and best solution for acute mountain sickness is descent to lower altitude. In the absence of such an option, a medical evacuation by helicopter may be necessary or if possible, the use of a Hyperbaric chamber (Gamov bag).  Our guides and tour leaders will be monitoring group health on all treks that take us to altitude, and though not common, it is sometimes necessary to take clients off trek and descend to lower altitudes for their safety. For more information on altitude sickness, please visit (provide link to detailed info on site).

The tour leaders can exclude anyone if they feel that the very person is not fit, healthy and is not able to complete the tour.

Weather: The climate may be freezing or very low which may drop to -20 degree Celsius during the evening, night and early morning. The daytime temperatures may be generally between 20- 35 degree Celsius. The weather can change and snow fall may occur at any time at higher altitudes.

Mountain flights:  The flights to and from Pokhara are a spectacular journey and a highlight of any trip to Nepal. Unlike the small mountain airstrips that use small aircraft and are often unreliable due to weather delays, this flight is from the major airport of Pokhara to the capital of Kathmandu. The many flights between these two cities use larger aircraft and have frequent schedules. The views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh and Langtang ranges are breathtaking.

Visa information: Travelers can apply for Nepalese visa from Nepalese embassy or consulate office situated nearby. They can also get a visa from Tribhuvan International Airport or from any other entry point in Nepal if they have no time to visit an embassy, or are not travelling from their home country. Visitors should have a few sets of photos, a passport, and required money to apply for visa.

Note: All visas sold on arrival are multiple entry visas and are available to cover 3 different durations of visit: US$25 for 15 days, US$40 for 30 days, and US$100 for 90 days. Please ensure you purchase the duration sufficient to cover your whole visit including days of entry and exit. Please do note that these durations refer to each country into Nepal e.g. 15 days for each entry

Visa extensions: Visitors can extend their visas from the immigration offices of Kathmandu and Pokhara only. They need to pay US $30 for 15 days extension, US $ 5 per day after 15 days and US$50 for multiple- entry visa. If visitors overstay then they need to pay a fine of US$3 per day if they overstay less than 30 days (plus a US$2 per day visa extension fee).

Health and travel insurance: Visitors should visit their personal physician or health clinic 4 or 8 weeks before coming to Nepal and vaccinate themselves. Travel and medical insurance is a must, and should include coverage for emergency flights and medical expenses.

Packing tips:

• Warm clothes for cold weather, including a set or two of thermal inner wear.
• Water and wind proof outer shell jacket and pants.
• Walking clothes like lightweight loose trousers, shorts and comfortable and cool shirts.
• Rain ponchos, wool socks, broken in walking boots, long trousers, warm hats, gloves, bandana, trekking poles, cap/hat for walking in the sun
• Sleeping bags if you have them.
• Travelers wearing lenses should carry plenty of lenses solution and backup prescription glasses.
• Sunglasses or ski glasses if walking in snow or high altitudes
• Basic first aid kit and personal medication.
• Sunscreen and sun hat help.
• Water purifiers like iodine tablets, filters etc.
• Best chances to see snow leopard at Tilicho Tal or Nar-Phu
• Headlamps with spare batteries.
• Hand sanitizers.
• Photocopies of passports and other important documents
• A travel guide book and map.
• Cameras and carrying cases
• For a comprehensive packing list, see (link to site on trekking FAQ).

FAQs:

What is the trekking route?

Kathmandu/ Besishar/ Syange/ Danakyu/ Bharthang/ Pisang/ Manang/ Throung La pass/Muktinath /Tatopani( natural hotspring)/ Ghorepani Poonhill/ Ghaundrung village/Pokhara.

What are the best seasons for this trek?

The best season for this trek are February, March, April, May, June, September, October , November and early December.

What kind of Trekking is this?
Annapurna circuit trek is a challenging trek, which demands higher concentration and physical fitness. If you are healthy and can walk 5 to 6 hours daily, you can do this trekking. However, daily jugging or walking exercise is useful before you depart. The trekking package has been designed understanding the geography and terrain so it’s very adventuring and exciting.  

What meals facilities do I get during the trekking?

With this program 21 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 19 dinners are covered in the program fee. Please be prepared to pay for non-included meals. Please note that costs for drinks and meals can vary depending on location and the prices.

What is climate of Annapurna circuit Trek?

The temperatures vary from about 28°C/80°F to 35°C/95°F at lower elevations to around 10°C/50°F higher up during the day time whereas during night and early morning, the temperature will be considerably lower, and may drop to freezing or a few degrees below.
Snow fall is unpredictable depending upon time and situation.

What to carry?

In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rain jacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, etc. Porters and mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.