Cross the classic Throng La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft) from Manang to Muktinath, take in fabulous mountain views from the summit of Poon Hill at 3,210m. /10,531ft!
This is truly an extraordinary part of Nepal. The trek takes you from 830m/2,723ft to 5,416m/17,769ft and back. While on this trek you will meet ten different ethnic groups and pass through four different climate zones. Your efforts will be rewarded with the completion of this fantastic trek around the entire Annapurna massif. This magical 21-day trek reaches its zenith at 5,416m/17,769ft and traverses all the way through agricultural villages to high mountain passes that resemble mountain peaks and also to the beginning of the Tibetan Plateau.
This epic adventure begins from the town of Besisahar, and from there the next seven days will be spent walking through rice farms, forests and friendly villages belonging to the lower realms of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The peaks of Annapurna-I (8,091m/26,545ft) and Manaslu (8,187m/26,860ft) provide the backdrop for the initial stage of this journey passing the quaint villages of Chamje and Pisang. Manang (3,500m/11,482ft) marks the beginning of the next phase, where a day will have to be spent acclimatizing to higher altitudes. Time here, however, will be well spent observing Buddhist Monks praying at one of the many monasteries. Another option is exploring Gangapurna Lake and the impressive glacier beside it.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Kathmandu
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, Himalayan Glacier will officially greet and meet you at Airport & transfer you to Hotel Shanker. You will have leisure time, followed by an evening welcome dinner at a typical Nepalese Restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu (1,000m/3,280ft).
Day 2: Kathmandu
Half-day guided city tours (tour includes Kathmandu Durbar Square, Syambunath Stupa, Pashupati Nath Temple - Hindu Temple & Buddha Nath - The biggest Buddha Stupa in ancient Kathmandu). Afternoon pre-trip discussion of the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu (1,000m/3,280ft).
Day 3: Kathmandu-Besisahar: 7- 8 hour drive
An early start to reach Besisahar (850m), the starting point of the trek. Your adventure begins! Overnight in Besisahar (830m/2,723ft).
Day 4: Besisahar–Bahundanda: 6-7 hours (Trekking times only; stops not included).
Day 5: Bahundanda–Chamje: 6 hours
Trek through amphitheatre-shaped rice terraces, along a steep vertical cliff, lush forests, and some culturally intriguing villages. Overnight in Chamje (1,410m/4,626ft).
Day 6: Chamje-Dharapani: 5-6 hours
Today you enter the Manang district after passing fields of corn, barley and potatoes, and then through forests of bamboo and rhododendrons. Overnight in Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft).
Day 7: Dharapani-Chame 6-7 hours
Today you will negotiate a few steep forested ridges, along with several landslides on route. Remember to look up though, as you will be treated to some sensational views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m/24,688ft). Small hot springs relief your long day trek. Overnight in Chame (2,710m/8,891ft).
Day 8: Chame-Pisang: 5-6 hours
A steep, narrow path through a very dense forest will bring you to the dramatic curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river. As the trail opens up you will be surrounded by majestic Himalayan Peaks. Overnight in Pisang (3,700m/12,139ft).
Day 9: Pisang-Manang: 4-5 hours
Enter the upper Manang region, where you will notice a contrast with the landscape and vegetation. The cold, dry climate creates a much harsher environment. Incredible views of the towering Himalayan Peaks. Overnight in Manang (3,500m/11,482ft).
Day 10: Manang: Rest
Rest day for acclimatization. Enjoy the fascinating village and immerse yourself in its wonderful culture. There are many opportunities for both easy and strenuous day. Explore with spectacular side trips to Bhojo Gompa or Gangapurna Lake and Glacier. Overnight in Manang (3,500m/11,482ft).
Day 11: Manage-Yak Kharka: 3-4 hours
Today is a short walk up to Yak Kharka, a small settlement set at 4,110m/13,484ft. Gradual ascent is the key to avoiding altitude problems. Overnight in Yak Karka (4,110m/13,484ft).
Day 12: Yak Kharka –Throng Phedi: 3-4 hours
Make your way to the foot of the pass, Throng Phedi. A small although busy settlement catering to the needs of trekkers and climbers that use this point as a base camp. Overnight in Throng Phedi (4,600m/15,092ft).
Day 13: Throng Phedi–Muktinath: 7-8 hours
An early start is important to begin a long day’s trek over the pass. Crossing this famous Throng La pass {5,416m/17,769ft} will be an unforgettable experience. The views from the trail and from the pass itself are outstanding high Himalayan scenes. Overnight in Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft).
Day 14: Muktinath-Marpha: 4-5 hours
Muktinath is an important pilgrimage place for both Hindus and Buddhists. Morning visit Vishnu Temple and Gompa. The trail today is quite surreal as you trek along a plateau above the Kali Gandaki world’s deepest gorge. The barren landscape of this area resembles Tibet. Overnight in Marpha (2,670m/8,760ft).
Day 15: Marpha-Ghasa: 6-7 hours
A day’s trek through Kali Gandaki valley. There is a 360* panorama of peaks: Dhaulagari, Tukuche Peak, the three Nilgiris, Fang and Annapurna I. Continue trek to Ghasa (2,120m/6,955ft) for overnight.
Day 16: Ghsas-Tatopani: 6-7 hours
Emerge back into subtropical forests, lush with vegetation. You will see more villages in this area; enjoy observing the everyday lives of the local village people. Overnight in Hot Spring - Tatopani (1,200m/3937ft).
Day 17: Hot Spring: Rest
Today you have no set plans. Take an easy day and relax with a bath in the hot spring. Overnight in Hot Spring.
Day 18: Hot Spring-Ghorepani: 7-8 hours
After a long, gradual walk up, you will stay at Ghorepani in order to make the climb to Poon Hill early in the morning. From this point you receive spectacular views of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri massif. Overnight in Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft).
Day 19: Ghorepani- Tadapani: 6-7 hours
Early morning ascend Poon Hill (3,210m. /10,531ft); from where you will see a spectacular sunrise over the whole Himalayan range and surrounding rice terraces (a photographer’s paradise!). After breakfast you will continue the trek to Tadapani (2,710m/8,891ft) for overnight. From the trail you will see panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range. Also a possibility to see monkeys.
Day 20: Tadapani-Ghandruk: 2-3 hours
The trail leads all the way down through the Rhododendron forest to Ghandruk. This is the second-largest Gurung settlement in Nepal. You will be able to visit the fascinating Museum of Traditional Nepalese Life. Overnight in Ghandruk (1,990m/6,529ft).
Day 21: Ghandruk-Pokhara: 3 hour trek; 1 hour bus ride
A short walk in the morning to complete the trail, followed by a ride back to Pokhara, a peaceful lakeside city harboring a unique setting of tropical climate and vegetation with the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas. Overnight in Pokhara (850m/2,789ft).
Day 22: Pokhara-Kathmandu: 6 hour
Drive back to Kathmandu. Himalayan Glacier Trekking will host a farewell dinner. Congratulations on the completion of your trek! Overnight in Kathmandu.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Trip cost includes:
- All hotel/airport transfer.
- Deluxe Shanker Hotel at Kathmandu & comfortable hotel at Pokhara
- All ground transportation by comfortable vehicles
- All accommodations in lodges/tea houses & tents and all meals during the treks– no extra - charge for single travelers
- 4 seasonal sleeping bag & Down jacket.
- Welcome & farewell meals.
- All porterages costs.
- All cost for a Himalayan Glacier leader (First Aid and Eco trained English Speaking) and sherpa, a sherpa assistance leader(s) and assistance Trek leader help each individuals while on trek.
- All necessary paper works, permits & fees.
- Travel & Rescue arrangements.
- Exclusive Medical Kit Bag.
- All government and local taxes if necessary.
- Himalayan Glacier Kit Bag.
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