Annapurna Circuit

Duration

22 days

Tour Code

HNXC

Physical Rating

5

Culture Shock Rating

4 stars

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Budget

Allow USD $440 for meals not included.

Day 1 Kathmandu

Experience the eclectic sights of Kathmandu. Be sure to visit the 'Monkey Temple', the bustling street markets and Durbar Square. Get up-to-date with mountaineering information and learn about minimum-impact trekking at KEEP, the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project.

Day 2 Bandipur

Be blown away by the fantastic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges and the friendliness of the locals on a stroll through this Newari trading village. Perhaps take a walk to the eastern part of town to visit the pagoda-roofed Bindabasini temple, which is the abode of Bandipur's guardian goddess, Durga.

Days 3-19 Annapurna Circuit

Trek through rugged mountain scenery by day and relax in cosy teahouses at night. Pause along the way to gaze at the scenery, snap a photograph and acclimatise to the dramatic altitudes. Complete a loop of the Annapurnas - cross icy rivers, traverse broad plains and climb alpine passes. Pass through sub-tropical forests, dense pine forests and deep, wooded canyons embellished by stunning waterfalls. Enjoy views of some of the highest peaks in the ranges - Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Chulu East. Say "hello" to yak and goat herders on grassy steppes and visit remote mountain monasteries to soak up Nepalese history, culture and tradition. Cross Thorung Pass - the highest on this trip at 5,416 m - and take a moment to revel in the adrenaline rush that comes with such a grand achievement.

Day 20 Pokhara

This peaceful, lakeside town rests beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna Ranges and is the perfect base to rest weary limbs, reflect on a tremendous adventure and relax with a hot drink at a lakeside cafe. Those who still have energy can wander around Pokhara and get to know its friendly residents.

Days 21-22 Kathmandu

Enjoy free time to continue sightseeing or shopping for Nepalese clothing, embroidery, carpets and ceramics. The neighbouring towns of Patan and Bhaktapur are also well worth a visit.