Sherpa Adventure

Overview
Itinerary
Life on Trek
Equipments

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- Duration
  
  14 days
- Group
  
  16 Pax
- Difficulty
  
  Moderate
- Accommodation
  
  Hotel / Lodge
- Season
  
  All Season

The 14 day long Annapurna Circuit Trip in Nepal is one of the most challenging and diverse treks to partake. The exhilarating trail is called the Annapurna Circuit as it takes us round the Annapurna mastiff. What makes the circuit stand out is the incredibly changing landscape that starts with green forests, flowing through rivers reaching arid lands that resemble deserts. The Annapurna circuit is also a true representation of the diverse rich communities and culture of Nepal. The highest elevation in the trip will be at 5400 meters at the formidable Thorongla Pass, which is considered one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

No meals included
Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1500m)

The day starts off with a scenic drive to Besisahar (760m), change the vehicle (locally hired jeep) and drive to Jagat. The drive along the sides of the roaring Trishuli River, transverse by terraced fields and varying landscapes, surely makes our day. We continue drive to the Marsyangdi Valley through villages and rice paddies to Jagat where we spend night. Approximate 8.5 hours of drive.

overnight at local teahouse

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day 3

Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1860m)

Today’s trek follows an undulating path towards the settlement of Chyamje which is reached by passing through several forested areas. After crossing the river to the east bank by the help of a suspension bridge, we will reach Tal (1700m). Tal is a village situated at the base of a grand waterfall. Relish the views of the picturesque grandeur before moving on to reach the village of Dharapani (1860m). The path will cross the river a couple of times before reaching Dharapani through Karte. Approximately 7 hours of trek.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 4

Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2670m)

The path is an ascending one above Dharapnai. We climb over a spur forest in order to reach the village of Bagarchap( 2164). We continue further through forested paths to reach Dhanakyu (2290m). From here, we move forward to reach Temang. The ascending path till Temang, will now be replaced by a descent to reach Chame. We firstly reach Kotho (2590m) via the settlement of Lattermarang (2360m). Several forested ridges need to be crossed in order to reach Kothe. From here, the trail becomes easier and takes us to the administrative center of the Manang District, Chame (2670m). Approximately 7-8 hours of walk.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 5

Trek from Chame to Pisang (3190m)

Today, we continue our ascent through forested hillsides. A dramatic change of scenery will now be experienced. We will leave behind the forests and vegetation and move forward to the dry and arid, upper district of Manang called as Nyeshang. The trail, which initially follows the river closely, takes us to Brathang (2919m). From this point, the valley becomes narrow and steep. Through deep forests amalgamated with the mesmerizing views of the Annapurna II, we cross the river. The impressive rock face of PaungdaDanda is in front of us now and it rises 1500 m from the banks of the river. We will now climb up to the village of Pisang (3190m), where we will spend the night. Approximately 6 hours of walk.

Overnight at local lodge
Day 6

Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540 m)

There are two trail options to undertake today. One trail, the longer one, passes through the high-level route via the villages of Ngawal and Gyaru. Great views of the Annapurna region are showcased by this path. For those wishing to take on a shorter path, there is the option to reach Manang via the valley below the Pisang Peak. We will be taking the shorter path through the main trail today. We will firstly continue along the south side of the river in order to reach the village of Hongde. Hongde is home to a police check post and an airstrip. After this, we will descend down to Mungli and drop down to Braga. Braga is a picturesque village, known best for its large and ancient gompa. Braga is also home to a Tree Nursery. Through mani walls, we will continue along the path in order to reach the village of Manang (3540m). Approximately 4 to 5 hours of walk.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 7

Acclimatization day at Manang

Altitude sickness might occur due to the thinning air and the lessening pressure. In order to eliminate this possibility, we will acclimatize this day by visiting highlights of Manang today. There is the option of climbing the hill situated behind the village, to ponder upon the views of the magnificent, snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna Region. We can also watch in awe, the enormous icefall which rumbles down from the massive Gangapurna. Manang is the place where we can enjoy extremely up close views of the mountain peaks. Gangapurna and Annapurna tower above us and these views from the Manang Village are undoubtedly the best views in the country.

Another option is to walk up the glacial lake below Gangapurna to view the amphitheater of the beautiful mountain views. Manang is full of coffee shops and bakeries and you can spend the afternoon with a cup of coffee and extremely beautiful views of the Himalayas before you.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 8

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4018 m)

Today, we head closer to Thorong La. We will start off the trek with a climb out of the Marsyangdi Valley and into the valley of the JarsangKhola. The dry, alpine countryside is even more mystical from this point onwards. Scrub juniper and clumps of birch adorn the entire path. We reach Yak Kharka (4018m) through Gunsang (3930m). All along the way, we will get to observe the views of the extremely beautiful peaks like the Gangapurna and Annapurna III.

Upon reaching Yak Kharkha by mid-afternoon, we will have plenty of time to acclimatize by walking into the surrounding hills. Blue sheep are found in plenty in this cold and windy spot. Approximately 4 to 5 hours of walk.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 9

Trek from Yak Kharka to ThorangPhedi (4450m)

This is another short day on the trail which is perfect for aiding in acclimatization. We pass through wilder scenery today. We ascend up the valley and then an undulating path brings us down to cross the JarsangKhola. A scree slope will be transversed now, in order to the reach Phedi (4420m) with few teahouses. Through Phedi is the base of the Thrung La Pass. Phedi is a cold and windy location so makes sure to wear adequate clothes. Approximate 5 hours of walk.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 10

Trek from ThorongPhedi to Thorong La Pass (5416 m) to Muktinath (3700m)

The main attraction of the trek and the highest point to be reached will be transversed today. The Thorong La Pass (5416m) can be reached from the ThorongPhedi by starting off with a steep ascent. The path becomes somewhat easier as we approach the top. The high altitude makes breathing shallow, so it's important to walk slowly. We will cross several false summits before finally reach the Thorong La Pass. The never before views of the snowcapped peaks, up to Tibet is surely set to blow our minds away. Look back and wonder upon the views of the Annapurna Range. The great chasm of the Kali Gandaki is directly in front of us.

Now, the descent down to Muktinath (3700m) is a very long and difficult one, made easier by the magnificent views of the Tukuche Peak and the Dhaulagiri. The path starts off as an easy one and becomes steeper as we follow grassy slopes. It again eases off before reaching the pilgrimage site of Muktinath (3700m). Approximately 9-10 hours walk.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 11

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2743m) via Kagbeni (2800m)

Muktinath is known as one of the greatest pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists and is visited by a huge number of internal tourists every year. Near the Muktinath Temple, lies the Jwala Mai Temple, an attractive pilgrimage spot for Buddhists. We will visit both the temples and marvel upon the burning flame on the water.

The trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni (2800m) follows beautiful barren landscapes. Bare eroded hills, offering a backdrop of snow-capped high peaks offers a perfect looking contrast to our eyes. After crossing the JhongKhola, we ascend to the beautiful village of Jhong. After a simple lunch in the only lodge in the village, we will pass along cliffs eroded by the wind. An array of beautiful colors will pass by before we reach the village of Kagbeni (2800m). This path has been chosen to avoid the newly built road. we will continue walk to Jomsom via Aklevatti. Approximately 5-6 hours walk.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 12

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

We will take a scenic flight of approx. 25 minutes to reach most beautifull city of Pokhara. after reaching at Pokhara airport we will be transported to the hotel. The entire afternoon will be free in Pokhara and we will explore the mystique of the city by visiting major attractions like the Davis Fall, Gupteshwori Cave, and the Nepal Mountaineering Museum.

Pokhara is called as the Lake Valley because of the presence of lakes, which have their sources in the glacial Annapurna Range. Phewa Lake is the most enchanting of the lakes present in Pokhara. I reflect back the scenes of the beautiful Himalayan Peaks pointing towards the clear, blue sky. Most hotels and restaurants are located near the Phew Lake, in the area called the Lakeside. The lake valley offers views of the Macchapucchre, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and other mastiffs.

Breakfast, lunch & dinner included

Overnight at local teahouse
Day 13

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After being transferred back to the domestic airport of the enchanting Pokhara City, it's finally time to bid goodbye to the Annapurna Range, which you have witnessed from up close in the past two weeks. The flight takes approximately 25 minutes. Upon reaching the Kathmandu domestic airport, you will be picked up and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day can be sued for relaxing adequately after the tiredness and the adventure of the past few weeks.
Day 14

International Departure

Life on Trek

Trekking staff

Whilst on the trek, the Nepali guides and porters will ensure that you are well looked after. Every trek has an English speaking guide, known as the Sirdar, who is in overall charge. It is his responsibility to organize the trek en route and manage the guides and porters and deal with the local peoples and they are experts in trek organization, as well as being able to discuss the local culture, religion, and landscape. In addition there will be other guides, sometimes referred to by the generic term Sherpa, who will be your walking companions on the trek and will assist the Sirdar in organizing the logistic of the trek. On camping treks there will be full kitchen crew who are responsible for all aspects of catering. And finally there will be porters who are the transportation system of the Nepali mountains. They will carry the duffle bags and other equipment as necessary.

Accommodation

Fully equipped Camping treks - accommodation is provided in spacious 2 person tents. We use this method for our climbing trips and some treks where lodges are less frequent.
Lodge trek - accommodation is provided in the local Nepali lodges, some times known as tea- houses. It is usually necessary to share a double room. We use this method for our treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions.

Food

On camping treks, all food is prepared by the trek cook - an expert in preparing delicious camp food. And most importantly, special care is taken to provide well - boiled, purified drinking water. On lodge treks, food is provided in the lodge and this ranges from delicious local specialties to common western dishes. If necessary, bottled water can be purchased from the lodges for a small fee, although many trekkers prefer to use fresh water with the added precaution of a purifying agent. You could bring some Chocolate or special energy drinks for yourself as these are hard to get in the Himalayas.

A typical trekking day

A typical day revolves around the Nepal sunrise and sunset. The day starts with an early wake up call. You then pack up your gear and enjoy a rousing breakfast before starting your morning's walk. The Sirdar will already be organized loads to porters and or animals, and your group will then set off on the trail at a leisurely pace, enjoying the view and stopping to take photographs. After 2-3 hours walk you stop for lunch. This lasts for about 90 minutes which gives you time to relax, or explore the local village. The afternoon's walk is usually shorter and we arrive at the campsite or tea-house in plenty of time to relax and savour the surroundings. Later in the evening dinner is served, giving you an opportunity to sample the delicious food, talk over the day's events, and look forward to another special day on the trails of Nepal.

Health and safety on the trek General

A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on the trek. However we advise that you also carry your personal first aid kit which includes specific items of preference.
We will, in an emergency, arrange for helicopter evacuation. (Note that you are required to hold insurance for this unlikely eventuality).
All meals on our camping trips are prepared to strict hygiene standards specifically for our groups, under the supervision of the trekking staff.
We use tea-houses that we now have strict hygiene standards and provide a broad menu.

High Altitude

Anyone can be affected by Altitude Sickness. However, our itineraries are specifically designed to minimize the risks associated with trekking to high altitudes by building in acclimatization and rest days. In the event of any symptoms we will ensure that the individual descends to a lower altitude to gain a quick recovery.

And finally……….. It must be stressed that whilst trekking in the Nepal Himalaya is challenging and rewarding, you must be prepared for he occasional inconvenience or discomfort. The correct mental attitude to trekking is as important as being physically prepared.

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Equipments

All equipment and food, and your own personal backpacks are carried by the porters or pack animals. It is only necessary to carry a camera or small daypack ! On camping treks all necessary camp equipment is provided - this includes dining tent, dining table and chairs, toilet tent, foam mattresses, and all cooking equipment. The only kit that you will need to bring is your own personal equipment and clothing.

Recommended Trekking Kit

The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend that you take with you. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.

Footwear

Walking boots with suitable ankle support that have been worn - in prior to the trek, and which are waterproof.
Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking andor for traveling
Warm socks for colder areas.
Gaiters ,,in case of rain or snow.

Leg wear

Loose, casual trousers for trekking.
Thermal leggings for colder areas.
Long skirt for women as an alternative to trousers
Waterproof trousers

Body

Selection of T-shirts, and long sleeved shirts, preferably not cotton.
Thermal shirt for colder areas.
Warm shirt, possibly fleece, for colder areas.
Fleece jacket or warm wool jumper.
Windproof, waterproof outer shell garment for higher altitudes.
Down jacket (optional for cold nights & mornings: can be hired in Kathmandu cheaply)

Head Hands

Wool or fleece hat, or balaclava.
Hat or cap for sun protection while trekking.
Sunglasses or goggles.
Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
Warm gloves.

Other Items

Strong rucksack, or large holdall to be carried by porters
Day sack to be carried personally.
Plastic bags or stuff sacks to storeseparate trekking gear inside your main bag.
One liter water bottle.
Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
Sleeping bag 4 season.
Torch, ideally head torch.
Camera and film! - for those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalaya.
Toilet items and towel.
Large handkerchief bandana for neck.

Recommended Mountaineering Kit

In additional to the items mentioned above for trekking the following is a list of the additional specialist items which are required for the trekking peaks.

Plastic or Leather mountaineering boots, with gaitors & crampons that have been tested for a good fit.
Fleece trousers or salopettes.
Additional mitts and gloves suitable for climbing.
Ice ace, and ski poles (Note: ice axe can hired in Kathmandu)
Climbing harness
2 X tape slings
2 X screw gate karabiners.
Descended abseil device Ascender