Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel in central Kathmandu. An Encounters Travel agent will welcome you, help you settle in, and explain the agenda for your tour.
Day 1: Pre-Trek Briefing & Explore Kathmandu
You’ll have a pre-trek briefing with your trekking guide in the morning. Following this, enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the tourist district of Thamel, visiting local markets, temples, and Durbar Square. The rest of the day is free for personal exploration and last-minute trekking purchases. In the evening, explore the many restaurants and bars, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that makes Kathmandu a global travel hub.
Day 2: Drive to Pokhara
Start your journey early, traveling west towards Pokhara. Enjoy a scenic drive by private car or minivan with a driver and trekking guide, passing through beautiful landscapes and enjoying views of the snow-capped peaks. The drive takes approximately 7 hours, offering glimpses of Himalchuli and Manaslu as you approach Pokhara. After checking into your hotel, you can explore the lively Lakeside area.
Day 3: Trek from Naya Pul to Tikhedhunga
Today, your trek begins with a 1.5-hour drive to Naya Pul. Your route starts by passing through Birethanti (1,025 m), a prosperous village. You’ll follow the main trail to Sudami and ascend to Hille (1,495 m) before reaching Tikhedhunga (1,540 m).
Accommodation: Tikhedhunga trekking lodge
Day 4: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
From Tikhedhunga, cross a stream and ascend a steep stone stairway to Ulleri (2,070 m). Walk through rhododendron and oak forests until reaching Ghorepani (2,850 m). The altitude gain will be noticeable, so be prepared for sore legs by the end of the day.
Accommodation: Ghorepani trekking lodge
Day 5: Sunrise at Poon Hill & Trek to Tadapani
An early start today allows for a spectacular sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210 m). After enjoying the panoramic views, descend to Ghorepani and follow a forested ridge before descending to Tadapani (2,630 m).
Accommodation: Tadapani trekking lodge
Day 6: Tadapani to Chhomrong
Descend through a lush forest before crossing a strong bridge at the river. You’ll climb to the village of Chhomrong (2,170 m), the last significant settlement before reaching Base Camp.
Accommodation: Chhomrong trekking lodge
Day 7: Chhomrong to Bamboo
Entering the Modi Khola Valley, you’ll walk through rhododendron trees, climb gently, and pass high bamboo forests. You’ll take a break at Bamboo lodge (2,310 m).
Accommodation: Bamboo trekking lodge
Day 8: Bamboo to Himalaya Hotel
Continue through the bamboo forest, climbing to the lodges at Doban before reaching Himalaya Hotel (2,920 m).
Accommodation: Himalaya Hotel trekking lodge
Day 9: Himalaya Hotel to Machhapuchhare Base Camp
Leave the tree line and ascend steeply to the narrow entrance of the Annapurna Sanctuary. After a brief stop at Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3,700 m), continue to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m).
Accommodation: Machhapuchhare Base Camp trekking lodge
Day 10: Explore Annapurna Base Camp
Enjoy the stunning scenery around you. Explore various viewpoints and take in the impressive backdrop of Annapurna I (8,091 m) and other peaks over 6,000 m.
Accommodation: Annapurna Base Camp trekking lodge
Day 11: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo
Retrace your steps, descending past Himalaya Hotel to Bamboo Lodge (2,310 m).
Accommodation: Bamboo trekking lodge
Day 12: Bamboo to Chhomrong
Continue your descent through the valley back to Chhomrong, enjoying the views along the way.
Accommodation: Chhomrong trekking lodge
Day 13: Chhomrong to Tadapani
Descend back through the beautiful forest to Tadapani (2,630 m).
Accommodation: Tadapani trekking lodge
Day 14: Tadapani to Ghorepani
Continue your descent and climb back to Ghorepani, where you can relax and enjoy the views.
Accommodation: Ghorepani trekking lodge
Day 15: Ghorepani to Pokhara
Descend back to Naya Pul and drive back to Pokhara. Enjoy a free afternoon in this peaceful lakeside town.
Accommodation: Pokhara hotel
Day 16: Drive back to Kathmandu via Bandipur
Drive back to Kathmandu, stopping in Bandipur along the way for some last-minute exploration. Enjoy free time for shopping or sightseeing in the city.
Accommodation: Kathmandu hotel
Day 17: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your Annapurna Sanctuary trek adventure.