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ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREKS

Annapurna base camp aka sanctuary trek combines cultural sightseeing of must-visit towns of Nepal and high-altitude trekking in the famous Annapurna region. The journey often starts from Kathmandu where you will spend a day exploring its heritage sites. We then head to Pokhara and this town of lakes is a trekker’s hub where a trek in Annapurna region starts off. This place gives the first-rated views of Annapurna range. We move closer to the Annapurna base camp, enjoying the dazzling mountain-scape and himalayas. As we reach there and spend a night, we can return back through the trails. A stop at Jinu permits us to take a dip in natural hot springs. When we get back to Pokhara, we may have boating in pristine Fewa lake and spend a day sightseeing in the town.

Overview

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (900m) in a tourist vehicle-6 hr
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul (1010m) and trek to Tikhedunga (1570 m)–4 hr
Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2840m)–5 hr
Day 06: Trek to Poon hill (3210m) and Tadapani (2610 m)–7 hr
Day 07: Trek to Chhomrong (2140m)–5 hr
Day 08: Trek to Dovan (2600m)–6 hr
Day 09: Trek to Deurali (3200m)–4 hr
Day 10: Trek to Annapurna base camp (4130m)–7 hr
Day 11: Trek to Bamboo (2345m)–6 hr
Day 12: Trek to Jinu (1780m)–5 hr
Day 13: Trek to Nayapul (1010m) and drive to Pokhara–5 hr
Day 14: Sightseeing in Pokhara
Day 15: Return to Kathmandu or proceed to another destination

Itinerary Details

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

We receive and welcome you at Tribhuvan international airport in Kathmandu, showing our signboard outside the airport terminal. You are then transferred to the respective accommodation for a wonderful stay.

Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley

After breakfast, sightseeing experience starts with city tours and some heritage sites.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (900m) in a tourist vehicle-6 hr

We pick you up at the hotel and escort to the tourist bus station. Bus to Pokhara leaves in the morning. A valley on the banks of fewa lake, Pokhara is likewise renowned for its panoramic views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre in the north, Dhaulagiri in the west, Lamjung himal and Manaslu in the east. It is therefore a gateway for trek. 

Day 04: Drive to Nayapul (1010m) and trek to Tikhedunga (1570m)–4 hr

We begin our trek at Nayapul after an hour drive from Pokhara. After a quick walk along the banks of Modi khola, we reach Birethanti, a village with many stores and teahouses. From there, the path keeps through the village and follows the north of Bhurungdi Khola. The path climbs up the side of valley to Hille at 1495 m. After climbing a bit, we then arrive Tikhedhunga (1570 m).

Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2840m)–5 hr

We pass on towards the steep climb to Ulleri, a magar village at an altitude of 2070 m. The path ascends gently via forests of oak and rhododendrons, towards Banthanti at 2250 m. Then we trek closer to Nangethanti at 2460 m. After an hour or so, we then reach the place Ghorepani (2840 m).

Day 06: Trek to Poon hill (3210m) and Tadapani (2610m)–7 hr

Early in the morning, we start trekking to Poon hill at an elevation of 3210 m, an exceptional mountain range spectacle; this point gives an unobstructed view of sunrise over the himalayas. Then we make a climb alongside ridges, and through pine and rhododendron forests, closer to Deurali (2960 m). Then we trek down to a place Banthanti, and then to Tadapani.

Day 07: Trek to Chhomrong (2140m)–5 hr

The day begins with a steep downhill through rhododendron forests. Leaving Tadapani, we descend through the forests after which the path eases as we reach Gurjung that is the village of Gurung. From right here, it is an easy walk to Chhomrong at an elevation of 2140 m.

Day 08: Trek to Dovan (2600m)–6 hr

The path drops down to Chhomrong khola and hike to Khuldighar at 2380 m where there was ACAP (Annapurna conservation area project). We walk through bamboo, hiking up the steep trail to Dovan.

Day 09: Trek to Deurali (3200m)–4 hr

We trek up through rhododendron jungle alongside Modi khola to himalaya hotel (2920 m). Taking lunch on the way, we head to Hinku cave which was a landmark for the earlier Annapurna I expeditions because it changed into a camp and a deliver depot. We walk uphill via jungle trail to reach Deurali (3200 m).

Day 10: Trek to Annapurna base camp (4130m)–7 hr

These days the path climbs past Hinko Cave, Deurali and then Machhapuchhre base camp. Due to the fact it is surrounded by mountains, this region is referred to as the Annapurna sanctuary.  Hours trek from Machhapuchhre base camp takes us to the Annapurna base camp (ABC) at elevation of 4130m. There we can view unobstructed views of mountains and scenery which is very extraordinary.

Day 11: Trek to Bamboo (2345m)–6 hr

We follow the same way down. The path drops by 1700 m to the bank of Modi khola and Bamboo at 2345m where there are a few teahouse/lodges available to stay at.

Day 12: Trek to Jinu (1780m)–5 hr

On the way from Bamboo, once we cross Khuldighar, there is a sheep farm. The path goes through rhododendron and bamboo fields. From Chhomrong, the path descends very steeply to Jinu, where we dip in natural hot springs.

Day 13: Trek to Nayapul (1010m) and drive to Pokhara–5 hr

From Jinu we walk on the right facet of Modi khola for few hours to Birethanti which can be considered one of the pleasant and relaxing walks of the whole trek. We reach Nayapul then an hour will take us back to Pokhara. Once we check in at hotel, we may then stroll around Fewa lake for our boating experience to Barahi temple.

Day 14: Sightseeing in Pokhara

After breakfast, full day sightseeing tour of Pokhara begins. There would be a city guide and a tourist van for you. You will generally visit among these sites:
Bindhabasini temple:
The temple lies in the middle of old bazaar. It is devoted to goddess Bhagwati, some other manifestation of shakti. The park grounds offer the pleasant picnic and relaxing spots.
Davis fall:
Locally called Patale chhango and located in the southern flank of Pokhara valley, it is where the flow from Fewa Lake collapses and surges down the rock into a deep gorge through several potholes. It is very popular with tourists and locals alike.
Gupteshwor cave:
Gupteshwor cave is located about 2 km from pokhara airport. The doorway is proper across from Davis fall and the cave is sort of 3 km in length. It has a few big corridor-sized rooms and some passages in which you need to crawl on all four. This cave holds uniqueness to hindus considering a phallic image of Lord Shiva is preserved right here inside.
Seti river gorges:
Carved by Seti gandaki river, it is one of the wonders of Pokhara. K.I. singh bridge at Bagar, Mahendrapool and bridge offer a great view of river’s dreadful rush and the deep gorge made by turbulent flow of white water.
Tibetan refugee camps:
Tibetan camp Tashi Ling that is in the backside of Gupteshwor cave is famous for the production of woolen carpets and different handicrafts. The unique tibetan settlers in this location migrated to Nepal in the ‘50s.
World peace pagoda:
Peace pagoda, also known as Pokhara shanti stupa, is a buddhist pagoda-style monument. It is the shrine built as image of peace. The spot is located at the peak of 2100 meters on the Ananda hill. It additionally presents a wide ranging view of the Annapurna range, Pokhara metropolis and Fewa Lake.

Day 15: Return to Kathmandu or proceed to another destination

You may opt for returning back to Kathmandu or proceeding to another destination.

Essential Information

Passport & visa
All foreigners beside Indians have to get a visa to enter Nepal. Unlike other countries, Nepali consulates and embassies issue visas without much fuss. On-arrival visas also are issued instantly at Tribhuvan international airport or at the border checkpoints. It may without difficulty be acquired at the Nepal/China border too. While you arrive at the airport you have to fill in a form and submit a passport photo. A single entry visa is valid for 15, 30 or 90 days. At the airport, you could pay this sum in any major foreign currency. Kids below 10 are required to have a visa however are not charged. In case you are making plans to go to India, Tibet and Bhutan you can follow for a more than one entry visa. You could change your single entry visa to multiple visa at Kathmandu’s immigration office. Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months. All foreign nationals getting into Nepal are required to arrange a visa either on arrival or in advance. A Nepalese visa may be received both prior to your arrival at a Nepalese embassy abroad and on arrival in Kathmandu at the airport. Note: Citizens of Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Palestine, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Liberia are not subjected to obtain the Nepalese visa upon arrival. Nepalese visa can also be secured at entry at Nepalese borders.

Lukla [Everest]
Please note the flights to and from Lukla rely on weather conditions. Awful weather might delay flights. While planes are grounded due to terrible climate, helicopter charter organizations operate mountain flights to Lukla. On your request, we even arrange a helicopter flight (to or from Lukla) for you. Whilst trekking in the mountains we stick to the standard itinerary. However if bad weather persists or if something occurs (natural calamities like landslide, avalanche or so), our trek leader regulates the itinerary. For instance, if horrific climate persists for days that disrupts your journey time table, you get the choice to cancel your trek to Everest and book other trekking regions – Annapurna, Langtang and many others or a cultural excursion. We assist on proper itinerary for you; one which fits your budget and time.

Weather 
The coldest month is January and the hottest is July. We say weather of Nepal is mild which means winter is dry and summer is hot. Monsoon lasts from around June to August. However rest of the year is dry. March to May is spring and September to November is autumn and they are additionally the most pleasant seasons. During winter (December, January and February), temperature drops down with snowstorms mainly in the high mountain areas.

Banking and foreign exchange
Payment in hotels, travel offices and airways can be made in foreign exchange. Credit card payments are common at major business institutions. There are plenty of machines or ATMs in towns and most will receive cards issued through any of the banking networks. Cards like Visa, Master, JCB and American express are simply universal at hotels, restaurants, airlines and major visitor centers.

Custom formalities
Upon arrival in Nepal, your luggage should be cleared by customs at the entry. You are allowed a private computer, digital camera, movie/video camera or so.  If you buy an antique item in Nepal and need to take it back home with you, it needs to be licensed by the department of Archaeology. In Nepal, it is unlawful to take items abroad that are 100 years or older.

Emergency 
Please do not forget to provide your emergency contact records whilst filling out forms.  You could mention the contact information of a member of the family or a person close to you.

Safety and security
Nepal is one of the most secure and hospitable destination for tourists. Nepalese are friendly and most of them assist visitors. Crime rate is very low as Nepal police is strict and smart. Tourism police is always on high alert and stand by. As per the review, it has been found that travelers rarely experience any hassle and difficulties while in Nepal. 

Phone/SIM/data plan
Upon arrival in Nepal, you can get a sim card at ease under certain terms & conditions. We can arrange it on your behalf. While in mountains, you may face some difficulties to receive internet range. In that case, you might need mobile data plan since it works everywhere. We assist on this if you require. Yet wireless internet works in majority of cities & towns nowadays. Internet system has already been installed even in Mt. Everest. These days you can mostly get a good internet access in Nepal. 

Electricity 
In Nepal the standard voltage is 220 – 230V and the frequency is 50 HZ. In cities, maximum hotels have multi-adapter style sockets but in the mountains the teahouses may or may not have these.  It would be good to have international adapter with you to fit your devices. Some teahouses along the trail use solar too.

Vaccinations 
We advise you to go to a health practitioner specialized in travel associated illnesses months before your trip departure. Take the specified boosters and vaccinations. You ought no longer to fear about tropical illnesses in case you are hiking in the mountains.

Baggage
On the path while your heavy baggage is carried by porters, you shall be carrying a light daypack of your valuables and accessories. Please make sure the baggage for a porter does not weigh more than 20 kg. One porter usually carries the bags of two guests. The luggage allowance for domestic flights is 20 kg. Maybe you ought to pay for extra luggage if your general bag weight exceeds it.

Body condition & experience
Walking in higher altitudes is physically demanding. In case you are in proper health; have common physical wellness, positive attitude, self-confidence and strong determination; you can easily do the trek. We would suggest exercising and walking regularly for some weeks prior to the experience. This may assist you on your energy and balance. Participants who have coronary heart, lung and blood illnesses are required to seek advice from their physician before participating.

Altitude sickness & Acclimatization
At higher altitudes, air gets scanty and oxygen level decreases. One has to acclimatize properly before going higher. Going too rapid will result in acute mountain illness. The symptoms consist of issue in breathing, nausea, headache, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, vomiting and many others. If left untreated, it might affect major organs too. All our itineraries permit enough time for acclimatization. One or two relaxation days have been allocated at lower elevations before you challenge into the higher levels (3500 to 4000 meters and above). This could supply your body enough time to get used to thin air. Additionally our guides bring a first-aid kit to stop and minimize the signs and symptoms of altitude sickness. On the trail, keep yourself hydrated with fluids as dehydration doubles the risk. To be more secure, we advise you to consult your medical doctor earlier than booking a trek.

Equipment & packing list
We also want you to take into account that the clothing items may vary with season and the trek duration. The listing given below is a basic guideline that may help you for your adventure:
Valid passport, passport size photos, airline tickets, insurance
Dollar, euro, pound or major currencies
Payment cards, ATM, coins
Required clothing … etc …

Travel coverage
It is a good idea to have a travel insurance policy whilst traveling to Nepal. Nepal is a great destination where most of the travelers encounter grand himalayan peaks and enjoy special adventure excursions. You will attain above 4000m in most of the treks in Nepal and it is fine to have a policy that covers clinical and emergency rescues. Helicopter rescue and emergency evacuation is common in Nepal so that you ought to pick out insurance accurately. It is a wise selection to have insurance coverage that can pay directly to hospitals as opposed to you having to pay for it.

Arrival & Departure
We offer airport pick up and drop off. On arrival at the Tribhuvan international airport in Kathmandu, we are there to welcome you. On the final day, you will be transferred to the international airport well in time (3 hours prior to your flight’s scheduled departure) to catch your flight.

Include/Exclude

*Airport / hotel / pick up & drop off on a tourist vehicle ✓
*Guided town tour in Kathmandu valley or related attractions ✓
*All meals throughout the trek (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) ✓
*Guesthouse accommodation during the trek ✓
*Required trek staff, guides and porters for your bags ✓
*Trekking equipment and special clothing ✓
*Food, accommodation, coverage, device and medicine ✓
*National park permits, TIMS permits & tickets ✓
*Vehicles to/from Kathmandu ✓
*Sightseeing/monument entry tickets in Kathmandu ✓
*Government tax, vat & revenue ✓
*Official costs ✓

*Visa fees ✖
*Travel insurance that covers emergency rescue and evacuation ✖
*International flight fares and airport tax ✖
*Alcoholic, canned or any beverage ✖
*Gratuities & private expenses ✖
*Any other that is not mentioned within the prices include section … ✖