Trekking and encounters in Annapurna
In summary
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Sports
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Duration11 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationHimalaya / Annapurnas
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions171.1 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day trek through the foothills of the Himalayas , in the heart of the pristine Annapurna region. This gentle, accessible, and well-balanced adventure takes you from Kathmandu to Pokhara , immersing you in vibrant Nepalese culture and breathtaking landscapes . Each stage, from Nangi to Tikot via Mohare Danda , offers an authentic immersion into the life of mountain villages, where the warm welcome of the locals enhances the human dimension of the journey. The mythical peaks of Dhaulagiri and Machapuchare provide a stunning backdrop to your days of walking. Organized in small groups and with a responsible approach, this trek fosters exchange, respect for the environment, and support for local initiatives. A wonderful adventure for those passionate about nature , genuine encounters , and cultural discovery .
The highlights
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Encounters with the ancestral ethnic groups of the Annapurna massif
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Unforgettable views of the Annapurnas, Machapuchare and Dhaulagiri
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Discover the most beautiful monuments of the Kathmandu Valley
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average daily elevation gain: 510 m
- Average daily descent: 440 m
Management
A French-speaking guide and one porter for every two people during the trek (15kg maximum per porter) are included.
Program
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Arrival in Kathmandu
- Transportation Minibus - 00h30 - 10km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Namaste , welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal!
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be met at the airport by your French-speaking guide and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free.
The ancient city of Kathmandu was built by the daughter of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century. Kathmandu was the capital of several dynasties, including the Licchavis, Guptas, Shahs, and Mallas.
It still houses many palaces as well as numerous Hindu temples and statues. Discover this unique and spiritual city, and immerse yourself in its history.
In the evening, transfer to the AVATA Wellness Center for a sound bath therapy of approximately 45 minutes, followed by a welcome dinner to get to know your guide and the other members of the group better!
Overnight stay at the Traditional Stay Hotel.
Day 1 -
Visit to Kathmandu
- Transportation Minibus - 00h02 - 30km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast is included at the hotel.
You ascend to the dome of the Swayambhunath Stupa , also known as the Monkey Temple, which overlooks the royal cities. You will be able to enjoy the view from the heights of Kathmandu.
This stupa is one of Nepal's most famous, sacred, and instantly recognizable symbols. Its nickname, "Monkey Temple," comes from the large tribes of monkeys found on the site.
You then depart for Boudhanath Stupa , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the center of Tibetan culture in Nepal. The 36-meter-high Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in South Asia. The mandala design at Boudhanath is a copy of the one at Gyantse in Tibet.
Finally, you head to the site of Pashupatinath , which is the most important Hindu temple in Nepal! Experience a sacred moment amidst venerable statues, temples, and cremation ceremonies by the river.
Meals are not included.
Overnight stay at the Traditional Stay Hotel.
Day 2 -
Kathmandu - Bandipur (1,030m)
- Transportation Minibus - 06h - 150km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast is included at the hotel.
Private transfer from Kathmandu to Bandipur .
You leave the Kathmandu Valley, follow the Trishuli River and pass the imposing Marshyangdi hydroelectric power station, and you pass ancient stone villages backed by terraced rice paddies and spectacular mountains to reach Bandipur, a beautifully preserved hill town, rich in Newari culture and tradition.
Meals are not included.
Overnight stay at the Red House Hotel.
Day 3 -
Bandipur - Pokhara (822m)
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 80km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast is included at the hotel.
You begin your day with a visit to the village of Bandipur .
Once an important stop on the trade route between India and Tibet, it was bypassed by the construction of the Prithvi Highway in the 1960s. Today, Bandipur invites travelers to experience what it uniquely offers: a rich hill culture, mountain views, and hiking.
Unlike most trading posts in the Nepalese hills, Bandipur has preserved its centuries-old cultural attributes: temples, shrines, sacred caves, countless festivals, and Newari architecture. With its attractive 18th-century architecture, pedestrian zone, and open-air restaurants, Bandipur has a distinctly European feel.
In the early afternoon, you set off towards Pokhara .
Bandipur is located a few kilometers from the city of Dumre, on the Prithivi road that connects Kathmandu and Pokhara. The journey between Dumre and Pokhara is scenic, with the Annapurna range visible in places on clear days, as well as pretty villages and agricultural lands and farms.
Meals at your leisure.
Overnight stay at the Queens Park Hotel.
Day 4 -
Pokhara - Galeshwor (1,170m) - Lower Kharka (1,525m)
- Transportation Minibus - 03h - 85km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast is included at the hotel.
Your driver will take you to Galeshwor , the starting point of your trek, from where you will begin your walk through the lush, low-altitude forest.
The ascent to Bas Kharka from Galeshwar, crossing the Kali Gandaki River via a suspension bridge, can be an amazing experience. You'll pass scattered farms, climb through forest, and then orange groves as you approach this charming village. You'll have time to explore this Magar village and perhaps visit the school and health post.
In November and December, enjoy the sweet oranges that grow on the hills.
Meals not included and overnight stay with a local family.
Day 5 -
Bas Kharka - Nangi (2,230m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Positive elevation gain 850 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast included at the homestay.
Begin your hike towards the village of Nangi. Hike through the forest to Danda Katteri where you will stop for lunch. Overlooking the valleys, it's an ideal spot to meet the locals and admire the view.
After lunch, you will walk leisurely to Nangi , the main village where you will spend the night.
You will be able to visit the school and observe the students' activities. Only from the outside, as visiting the inside of the classrooms is not recommended.
You will be able to visit local craft industries - such as villagers who make paper from locally grown plants - and visit income-generating projects.
Meals not included and overnight stay with a local family.
Day 6 -
Nangi - Mohare Danda (3,300m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Positive elevation gain 1050 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast included at the homestay.
Today, you'll hike through the forest with breathtaking mountain views. Don't be surprised if you encounter yaks grazing nearby.
As you emerge from the forest, you are dazzled by the endless green hills before you. There are no villages here, but this is where Nepal's highest wireless internet relay station is located, providing internet access to remote villages, schools, and health posts that use wireless internet.
Reaching the top of the village reveals a breathtaking view of the Annapurna range . You can identify Machapuchare , the fish-tail mountain, and contemplate Dhaulagiri in close-up.
Meals not included and overnight stay with a local family.
Day 7 -
Mohare Danda - Tikot (2,300m)
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Negative elevation 700 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast included at the homestay.
The hike begins towards the village of Tikot. A fantastic walk along the ridge with wonderful views in all directions before descending through the forest to Danda Kharka .
Here, the mountains seem so close you could almost touch them. You'll pass through ever-changing landscapes before reaching Tikot , a village with narrow streets and beautiful houses. Along the way, you'll encounter children in uniform and villagers working in the fields.
By staying with local families, you'll get a glimpse into village life in this fascinating and vibrant community. Sit back and watch the women carrying huge mounds of grass to feed their buffalo, the children clutching their books on their way to school, and the villagers working in their fields.
Meals not included and overnight stay with a local family.
Day 8 -
Tikot - Tipling (1,141m) - Pokhara
- Transportation Minibus - 03h30 - 80km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Negative elevation 1500 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast included at the homestay.
The final stage of your Himalayan trek involves descending the hill to the village of Tipling .
You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Kali Ghandaki River below. It originates on the border with Tibet in the Nhubine Himal glacier at 6,300m, in the mysterious kingdom of Mustang in Nepal.
Your trek has already come to an end, and after this magical descent, you'll board a car to return to the city of Pokhara . Back at your charming hotel, take the opportunity to relax or enjoy a meal at a restaurant around Lakeside.
Meals are not included.
Overnight stay at the Queens Park Hotel.
Day 9 -
Pokhara - Kathmandu
- Transportation Minibus - 09h - 280km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Breakfast is included at the hotel.
You'll be heading back towards Kathmandu, along the Trishuli River. It's a long journey, so take the opportunity to rest after these days dedicated to trekking!
Lunch on your own.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at the Nepali Chulo restaurant , where a traditional Nepalese dance performance awaits you. A great opportunity to reminisce about all the wonderful moments shared during this trip!
Overnight stay at the Utse Hotel.
Day 10 -
Departure from Kathmandu
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast is included at the hotel.
Wake up and make the most of the time you have left in this wonderful country of Nepal.
Take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere of Kathmandu one last time. Enjoy the smiles of the people around you, the unique architecture, and the captivating scents.
Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will take you to the airport. Our travel agency in Nepal thanks you and wishes you a pleasant trip.
Meals are not included.
Day 11
Note
The travel itinerary may change depending on unforeseen circumstances (weather, road closures, technical problems, etc.).
Accommodation
Access
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be met at the airport by your French-speaking guide. Your return to the airport at the end of your stay will also be arranged according to your flight schedule.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
# Assistance from our travel experts 24/7;
# You will be greeted by your travel expert or our representative upon your arrival at the airport;
# Transfers and ground transportation in private vehicles with drivers;
# Accommodation, or similar establishment, as mentioned in the program in a double / single / twin room (with twin beds), or with a local resident;
# Breakfasts (in Kathmandu and Pokhara only);
# The welcome dinner on day 1 with sound bath therapy at the AVATA Wellness Center;
# The farewell dinner on Day 10 with a dance performance at the Nepali Chulo Restaurant;
# Activities marked "included" as described in the program with a French-speaking guide.
# An English-speaking assistant trekking guide;
# One porter for 2 people on treks (15 kg maximum per porter);
# Entrance fees to the monuments and places mentioned in the program;
# Water bottle and local SIM card;
# Does not include any other item not mentioned in the quote.
The price does not include
# Visa fees;
# International airport taxes;
# International flights;
# Tipping. It is part of the country's culture (locals themselves are used to giving it);
# Main meals;
# Meals during the trek (possible with supplement, please contact us);
# Drinks and personal expenses;
# Entrance fees, excursions and optional activities;
# Repatriation assistance;
# Anything not listed under "prices include";
# Any loss or expense arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as road blockages due to landslides or strikes, flight delays or cancellations caused by weather conditions or technical problems, accidents, etc.
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Hiking boots suitable for mountain walking, preferably high-tops.
- A lightweight backpack of approximately 35 liters to carry your daily essentials (sunscreen, at least 3 liters of water, snacks, jacket) with a protective cover
- A second backpack will be given to the porters (not to exceed 7 kilos per person)
- A cap / a hat
- A hat (it can get chilly at night)
- Sunglasses
- Breathable underwear
- A lightweight fleece-type jacket
- A warm, lightweight, and waterproof Gore-Tex type jacket
- A pair of warm, waterproof gloves
- Pairs of trekking socks
- Trousers suitable for trekking
- Thermal tights
- A water bottle (or hydration pack) of at least 1.5 L
- Your individual pharmacy
- A toiletry bag with eco-friendly toiletries
- A silk sheet / meat bag
- A suitable sleeping bag (minimum 0°C)
- Walking sticks, if you use them
- Toilet paper
- Plastic bag for collecting your waste
- Flashlight or headlamp
- swimsuit and flip-flops / jellyfish
- microfiber towel
- Rain gear / Windbreaker
- snacks / energy bars
- a light book or a deck of cards… if you wish