Annapurna Expedition - 45 Days
45 Days
8,091m (26,545ft)
Annapurna Region
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Challenging
Flight, vehicle
3-star hotel/teahouses/camps
Late Spring and Autumn
Gangapurna, Fishtail, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri
Northwest face
Annapurna is well-known for mountaineers worldwide, as it was the first of the 8000m mountains ever climbed. This astounding peak makes a remarkable impression among any mountaineer. Historically, it has been the most challenging mountain with the highest fatality rate. Overly steep terrain, extreme weather conditions, and risk of avalanches make Annapurna an impressively challenging mountain.
Annapurna is a 55km long massif in the Himalayas in the north-central part of Nepal. Annapurna I is the highest among more than 30 peaks above 6000m, and the 10th highest mountain in the world. Besides that, the other four peaks sharing the same name as Annapurna include Annapurna II (7,939m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), and Annapurna South (7,219m). The Annapurna massif and its surrounding area welcome thousands of visitors every year to witness the miracle of nature.
The massively popular Annapurna region includes some of the world’s classic trekking trails like the Annapurna Circuit. It lies within the first and the largest conservation area of Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area.
The fascinating mountains and the rich natural biodiversity of the surrounding sanctuary and conservation area adds value to the Annapurna expedition.
Climbing Annapurna is not for the faint-hearted and the inexperienced. It requires skills, determination, preparation, and logistics of the highest degree. Particularly the south face of the mountain remains as the biggest challenge in the history of mountaineering. It is an extremely steep wall of rock that rises 3000 meters, making it one of the most challenging climbs in the world.
You will be using the northwest face, which has a normal and easy route to the summit. Or, if you wish to attempt from any other route, you can have that option too. For this expedition, you will set up 5 camps, including the Advanced Base Camp.
Advanced Base Camp: The Advanced Base camp has tents set up for specific purposes at 4200m. All your supplies, equipment, food, and accommodation are stored here. The ABC is a bit far from the regular Annapurna Base Camp, a popular trekking destination.
Camp I: Camp I is set up at 5200m. This part of the climb includes mixed terrain. It is a technical section of ridge rock and glacier, protected from avalanches.
Camp II: Camp II is at the altitude of 5700m above a snowy terrace. It is moderately difficult and considered as the crux of the route. This section is safer and easier than the other sections, but there are a few tough sections.
Camp III: Camp III is at 6500m and is one of the hardest and longest sections. It involves 800 meters of climbing, which is easy but exposed to brutal weather conditions.
Camp IV: Climbing from Camp III to Camp IV seems shorter. However, it is at an altitude of 7100m. Thus, even a small effort feels like a lot due to low oxygen. This section involves a 3-hour climb on a steep snow wall prone to avalanches during Spring.
A Short History of Annapurna expedition:
Annapurna has a glorified history and the saddest one too. It was the first mountain above 8000m ever climbed. However, since the first ascent by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal of the French expedition team on 3rd June 1950, it has become the least climbed the peak. Annapurna also has the highest fatality rate.
Is This Expedition Right For You?
- If you’re looking for the ultimate mountaineering challenge, then there’s no other mountain compared to Annapurna. Be it in terms of technicality or logistics, Annapurna is the ultimate one.
- Climbing Annapurna is challenging as well as cheaper than the Everest expedition.
- If you have prior experience of climbing an 8000er, you can opt for Annapurna as you will have a team of experts to guide you. However, you do need to have a sufficient skillset needed for mountaineering.
- If you want to visit the classic trekking region of Annapurna, this expedition is the right choice for you.
Day to Day Itinerary Table - Annapurna Expedition
| Days | Itinerary | Altitude(in meters) | Duration(in hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Arrive Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel | 1400 | - |
| Day 02 | Prepare for expedition | 1400 | - |
| Day 03 | Briefing at Ministry of Tourism of Expedition | 1400 | 1-2 hours |
| Day 04 | Drive to Pokhara and to Beni | 899 | 8-9 hours |
| Day 05 | Drive to Lete | 2300 | 3 hours |
| Day 06 | Trek to Jungle Camp | 2900 | 4 hours |
| Day 07 | Trek to Miristi Khola | 4260 | 5-6 hours |
| Day 08 | Trek from Miristi Khola to Annapurna-BC | 4200 | 4-5 hours |
| Day 09-Day 38 | Climbing Period of Annapurna 1 | 8091 | - |
| Day 39 | Trek to Miristi Khola | 4260 | 3-4 hours |
| Day 40 | Trek to Jungle Camp | 2900 | 4-5 hours |
| Day 41 | Trek to Lete | 2300 | 4 hours |
| Day 42 | Drive to Beni & Pokhara | 1400 | 5-6 hours |
| Day 43 | Drive or fly back to Kathmandu | 1400 | - |
| Day 44 | Free Day in Kathmandu | 1400 | - |
| Day 45 | Annapurna First Expedition ends / Final Departure | 1400 | - |
Why You Will Love This Annapurna Expedition
- You will be climbing one of the most challenging climbs of your lifetime. Just that is enough to get you excited for the climb if you’re an avid climber.
- You will be climbing the world’s 10th highest mountain above 8000 meters.
- For this expedition, you’ll be trekking through the world-renowned Annapurna region and its classic trekking trails.
- You will be at safe hands with trained guides who are experts in climbing, planning, and arranging expeditions.
- You will be trekking through a region rich in its natural biodiversity and home to the gutsy Gurungs known for their kindness and bravery.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel
Altitude: 1400m
The first day of your expedition begins as you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. On your arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport. He/she will receive you at the airport and guide you to your hotel. Once you’re at the hotel, you’re free to rest for the day.
Get some rest and much-needed sleep after a long flight. In the evening, you can talk a stroll to get a glimpse of the city. For the evening, you will be served dinner at the hotel where you can enjoy the delicious Nepali cuisine.
Important notes
As you travel across different time zones and for hours in a flight, you need to get proper rest and sleep to adjust to the local timezone. Some even face problems of jetlag, so getting proper rest and sleep is essential.
Highlights
- Meet and greet with our representatives.
- Get a glimpse of the bustling city of Kathmandu.
- Delicious Nepali cuisine for dinner.
Day 2: Prepare for the expedition
Altitude: 1400m
This day marks the day for all kinds of preparation for the expedition. If you’ve left out any of the equipment listed in the packing list provided to you earlier through email, you can get it here in Nepal. For that, you can either visit the traditional-yet-modern market of Thamel or Durbarmarg. These are the major tourist hubs in Kathmandu, most likely you will find what you’re looking for.
Other than equipment, you can also get anything you want, like food, books, or anything else that you need during the trip. While you’re at it, you can also visit Assan to explore the century-old traditional market at the center of Kathmandu. You can also explore the nearby Kathmandu Durbar Square and witness the rich art and architecture.
Highlights
- Explore the traditional market of Thamel.
- Visit the centuries-old market of Assan.
- Explore the rich art and architecture.
Day 3: Briefing at Ministry of Tourism of Expedition
Altitude: 1400m
On this day, you will meet the whole team for the expedition, including your guides. After breakfast, you’ll head towards the Ministry of Tourism of Expedition for a detailed briefing session.
Here, you’ll receive permits from the Ministry for your expedition. A detailed briefing session that’ll inform you about the basics of the expedition will follow. It will inform you about the do’s and don'ts as expected by the government.
Later in the evening, you will be joining for a group dinner with the team and the guides. Here, the guides will brief you about the daily itinerary in detail. If you have any queries, the guides will be happy to address those. Enjoy the dinner and get to know the team better as you will be spending the next one and a half months with them trekking through the mountains.
Important notes
Take special care of the permits, and do not lose it. You will need different permits for ACAP and the expedition.
Highlights
- Meet and greet with the team of fellow climbers and guides.
- Visit the Ministry of Tourism for a briefing.
Day 4: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and to Beni
Altitude: 899m
After an early breakfast, you will hit the road on this day and drive to Pokhara. The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is decently comfortable. The ride takes you through the whirling road from Kathmandu to Muglin. While the hills, forests, and small towns and villages will keep you engaged, the Trishuli River flowing alongside will captivate you.
Once you’re at Pokhara, you will stop for a short break. Enjoy the lunch here, and get ready for driving further to Beni. It is a comparatively short drive for 2-3 hours. It takes you through the surrounding hills of Pokhara. The views get better with the majestic panoramic backdrop of Machhapuchhre range, calm and peaceful Phewa Lake, and the enchanting forests that cover the hills.
In no time, you will be at Beni. Beni Bazaar is a famous town for its vibrant and beautiful cityscape. Lying at the Kaligandaki and Myagdi river’s confluence, this town offers an excellent balance between natural and artificial landscapes.
Highlights
- Drive along the Prithivi Highway.
- Views of rivers, forests, villages, and towns are pleasing to the eyes
- Splendid view of Pokhara city.
- Beautiful Beni Bazaar sitting at the confluence of Kaligandaki and Myagdi river.
Day 5: Drive to Lete
Altitude: 2480m
On this day, you will be driving further ahead to Lete. After breakfast, you will hit the road in a 4-wheeler. The drive on this day takes you through the infamous road to Mustang. But, not all the way through.
The drive is mostly comfortable with a few bumpy parts of the road. You will come across the Tatopani, which is a place famous for its hot springs. You can enjoy a bath, and it’s equally relaxing on your way back.
On reaching Lete, you will feel the change in altitude. Lete is a beautiful village with outstanding views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Nilgiri mountains. You will begin your trek here with the cool breeze that will keep you energized.
Highlights
- Enjoy the dry, rocky landscape of this region
- Jaw-dropping view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.
- Comfortable drive through the hills of Nepal.
Day 6: Trek to Jungle Camp
Altitude: 2900 m
This day marks your first day on foot. From today and onwards, you will be trekking and climbing through one of the most exotic mountains and surrounding areas. After a delicious early breakfast, you will be out on the trails.
The walk begins with an unrelentingly steep section followed by a pleasant forest that can restore your lost energy and morale. At times, you will come across unrealistic views. You will come across bamboo forests, rhododendron, fir, and birch trees as you walk further until you finally arrive at Jungle Camp.
Highlights
- Pleasant walks through forests
- Views of forest and mountains are picturesque.
- Spend a night out in nature
Day 7: Trek to Miristi Khola
Altitude: 4260m
On leaving Jungle Camp, the trails become fainter. For most of the part, it is an easy walk to Sano Bugin, a shelter site for herders during Winter. The gigantic west face of Annapurna is right in front of you. The view is unforgettable.
Continue walking for about 1 hour, and you’ll reach Thulo Bugin before finally reaching Mristi Khola. You will notice a much lesser presence of locals in this part of the trail.
Highlights
- Gigantic view of Annapurna
- A naturally untampered secluded trail
Day 8: Trek from Miristi Khola to Annapurna I Basecamp
Altitude: 4200m
The walk on this day begins once you’re at the southeast bank of Miristi Khola. From here, continue the uphill climb. Soon you will notice the drastic change in landscape as vegetation disappears.
Since you’re already above the 3000-meter mark, you should consider the altitude factor and walk slowly. Walking through the rocky terrains and icy walls, you finally reach the base camp after 3-4 hours of walk from Mristi Khola.
On reaching base camp, your sherpa friends will have already set up the camp and made it ready for you to rest. The basecamp does not offer a great view as the north face gets blocked. However, if you climb the nearby ridge, you will get an incredible view like nothing before.
Important note
While walking at higher altitudes, it is crucial to keep yourself hydrated. Since this region receives very few tourists and almost no other locals, you should carry and drink plenty of water.
Highlights
- Rocky, dry and icy landscape
- Unmatchable view of Annapurna
Day 9: Day 09-38: Climbing Period of Annapurna 1
Altitude: 8091m
From this day onwards, you will start your climbing. Since it is the first day, there’s a briefing session that’ll explain everything you need to know while climbing, including methods and techniques to the way you’ll approach the mountain.
For the expedition, you will be using the standard route from the northwest face--the most popular and easy route leading to the summit. In case if you want to try some other route and the team agrees to that, you can choose that too.
Climbing Annapurna requires high-level skills, knowledge of the mountains, and excellent logistics management. It is prone to avalanches and has the highest fatality ratio. Climbers who climb Annapurna successfully gain huge recognition in the world of mountaineering.
Standing atop Annapurna is absolute bliss. It is one of the centrally located mountains that share proximity with some of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Views of Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Hiuchuli, etc. are simply out of this world. Annapurna is and has been an ultimate challenge for many climbers. It teaches you patience and determination.
Important notes
During the briefing session, pay attention to your guide. Since Annapurna is the deadliest of mountains, it is important to listen to the instructions carefully and follow accordingly.
Highlights
- Annapurna is an ultimate test for every mountaineer by all means.
- World’s 10th highest mountain.
- Surreal Views
- Team of expert guides to guide you.
Day 10: Trek to Miristi Khola
Altitude: 4260m
On this day, you’ll be on your way back from the base camp after a successful ascent. The hangover of the successful ascent will make your day. It becomes extremely easy to walk in those high altitude mountains as there’s plenty of oxygen, unlike the summit.
After packing all your gears, you will head down to Miristi Khola. Tracing back your footsteps and walking along the rocky terrains, you will reach Miristi Khola in no time.
Important notes
Before heading out of the base camp, you will be participating in cleaning the base camp. We urge our climbers and team members not to leave a trace of waste in the mountains. As a company, we acknowledge the issue of climate change and will fulfill our roles for environmental protection.
Highlights
- Easy and comfortable walk
- Cleaning session at the base camp
- Majestic view of the rocky deserted landscape.
Day 11: Trek to Jungle Camp
Altitude: 2900 m
The walk on this day is easy and mostly downhill. There are a few uphill sections; however, since the path is mostly through forests, it is comfortable. Rivers won’t leave your sight, and Annapurna will slowly fade away by the time the day ends.
You’ll meet some herders on the way while walking, if lucky. These people are friendly, and a pleasing smile can make things interesting in no time. So, do not hesitate to open up with these people.
Highlights
- Walkthrough the forests of rhododendron, pine, and fir trees.
Day 12: Trek to Lete
Altitude: 2480 m
After an early breakfast on this day, you head towards Lete, our last destination. Retracing our tracks, you walk back to Lete. The strenuous uphill climb during the start of the trek now becomes an easy downhill climb.
Views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna will keep you company throughout the walk. The cool wind that blows throughout the day will make your walk comfortable. On reaching Lete, you end your trek.
Important notes
We will bid farewell to our Sherpa friends. If you want to tip them, this is the time to do it. You will enjoy a group dinner for celebration and get somewhat comfortable sleep in a lodge.
Highlights
- Comfortable walks through forests
- Uninterrupted views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.
- Excellent view of vistas
Day 13: Drive to Beni & Pokhara
Altitude: 1400m
On this day, you enjoy your delicious breakfast and get yourself ready and packed for the drive to Pokhara. The ride follows the same route from Lete to Beni and, in turn, to Pokhara. Enjoying the last view of Annapurna, you wave your goodbyes to the mountain and hit the road.
Short toilet breaks will help give you some time for stretching your muscles. The roads are bumpy at times, so it might be a bit uncomfortable at first. Passing the town of Beni, you drive further towards Pokhara.
As you approach Pokhara, the views become better, and the roads become comfortable. Pokhara is one of the major tourist hubs and hence has all kinds of services available. If you wish to celebrate the success of your expedition, this is the place for it.
Highlights
- Enjoy the traditional lifestyle of Nepali villages
- Excellent views of rivers, lakes, forests, hills, and mountains.
- Enjoy the nightlife of Pokhara.
Day 14: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1400m
You will have an option to either fly back to Kathmandu or drive back to Kathmandu. Flying back to Kathmandu will save you significant time to spend in Kathmandu as it takes only 20 mins compared to 6 hours it takes when you drive to Kathmandu. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will move to the hotel in Kathmandu.
Highlights
- Enjoy the luxury of a 3-star hotel.
- Morning view of the Himalayas.
Day 15: Free Day in Kathmandu
Altitude: 1400m
This day is a free day allocated for you to explore Kathmandu. On this day, you’re free to explore the city all by yourself. Plan early about your schedule, and you can make full use of the day.
Get your friends and family souvenirs from Nepal. You can either choose to visit the traditional market of Assan or Thamel for that. You can also visit the world heritage sites in and around Kathmandu. Explore the culture and lifestyle of people in the capital and experience the perfect blend of traditional and modern society.
You might as well take a stroll around the city and explore some local eateries. In the evening, if you want to chill, find a local bar with some good music in Thamel, grab a drink, relax and enjoy.
Highlights
- Visit world heritage sites
- Explore local eateries and market places.
- Enjoy the ancient art and architecture.
Day 16: Transfer to International Airport for final departure
Altitude: 1400m
This day is your final day in Kathmandu. After a delicious breakfast, our representative will pick you up at the hotel and drop you at the airport. You will wave your last goodbye to Nepal and head home. We wish you all the best for your future endeavors.
Includes
- Arrival and departure cost on domestic and international flights
- Food and accommodation in Kathmandu on B/B plan
- All the meals (Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast) During the Trekking and climbing of Annapurna Summit and back
- All of the transportation service from initial and endpoints of Annapurna Expedition
- Climbing Sherpa guide for the expedition
- Annapurna Expedition Group climbing equipment like climbing rope, ice ax, ice screw, ice bar, etc.
- All the required permits for Annapurna Expedition
- High altitude meals
- All of the insurance and expenses of Liaison officer (Government of Nepal)
- All necessary camping and kitchen equipment provided including base camp tents, dining tent with table and backrest chair, kitchen with all utensils, toilet with commode, etc.
- High altitude tents and the crucial gadgets like EPI gas and burner for the high climb
- Warm clothes and trek gear for Nepali staffs including porters
- Life and medical insurance of all the staff and porters
- Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) and Gamow Bag along with the comprehensive first-aid kit
- Communication devices like a walkie talkie and satellite phone in case of emergency
- Emergency Oxygen with regulator and mask while climbing Annapurna
- Agency service charge
- Farewell dinner with Nepali song and dance
Excludes
- International airfare as well as airport tax
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Medical and personal high-risk insurance
- Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu
- Bar and beverage bills
- Personal climbing gears and equipment
- Emergency rescue evacuation
- Climbing bonus and tips for Annapurna Base Camp staffs and personal expenses
- Permit fees and charge for satellite phone, communication gadget, and commercial filming while on Annapurna Expedition.
- Garbage deposit USD 3000 (sharing of the total person), and the deposit fee won’t be refunded if the climbers don’t take back their garbage to Kathmandu.
Review
Nar phu valley trek with Kamal guide, perfect!
My partner and I went on a 9-day trek in the Nar and Phu Valley. Our Kamal guide was just perfect! Professional and very nice, he accompanied us along with the porter Prim throughout the itinerary, adapting it to our needs and desires. I don't think we could have fallen into better hands than Kamal, he promptly solved all the little problems we encountered, he was fantastic as was the porter Prim. Amazing experience thank you!
Nepal Social Treks Review
I’ve just completed the 15 day Everest Base Camp trek with Nepal Social Treks and can’t praise the company, guide & porter highly enough. My guide in particular, Lhakpa was an absolute star who could not do enough to make the time away as comfortable as possible. Considerate, knowledgeable, funny, kind & inspiring. I genuinely don’t think I could have completed the trek without their support! A lifetime ambition completed thanks :)
EBC by Gokyo
If you are planning to do the EBC, the Agency should be Nepal Social Trek and the Guide should be Santa Thabir Magar. Permanent communication during trekking and excellent coordination at all times. The alternative I recommend is Gokyo. Something heavier than the classic, but definitely extraordinary. Also the views of the great mountains during the circuit, are not to forget them
Ho prenotato il viaggio dall'italia. C'è stato qualche problema non dovuto all'agenzia perchè non sono partiti voli per giorni per l'everest e loro prontamente hanno sistemato tutto. Narayan, la mia guida e amrit il mio porter sono stati fantastici. Grazie grazie grazie
Great Anil Sherpa
FAQs
Is Annapurna the hardest mountain to climb?
Mountaineers around the world consider Annapurna as one of the toughest mountains to climb. That’s mainly because of its narrow and steep terrain, extreme weather conditions, high risk of avalanches, and the high fatality rate. However, there have been 191 successful ascents to date. A recently discovered route is now the safest recommended route.
How long does it take to climb Annapurna?
As Annapurna lies in Nepal’s central north region, it is easier to reach the basecamp from the capital compared to other expeditions. Including the trek to reach the basecamp, climbing Annapurna takes around 45 days. If you exclude the trekking part, the actual climbing days are about 28-30 days.
What kind of preparation is needed to climb the Annapurna?
Climbing Annapurna requires sheer determination and skill as it is the most challenging mountain on Earth. Physical fitness is a must. Climbing skills of both ice and snow is equally important. Likewise, previous experience of climbing an 8000m peak is also essential to understand the weather conditions of the mountain and plan accordingly. Most importantly, having prior experience is vital to understand the unpredictable nature of this mountain.
What makes Annapurna different from the other mountains?
Annapurna massif is a massive mountain range stretched up to 50 km with more than 30 6000m peaks. Annapurna I, which is the major peak, is 8091m tall. Its south face is a long rocky stretched wall up to 3000m. Since the other faces are prone to avalanches, the south face is the safest but extremely challenging. Mountaineers claim it to be the toughest mountain to climb.
Trekking Gear List For Annapurna Expedition
Here are some of the personal trekking gear that you can carry during Annapurna Expedition:
Bags:
Duffel Bag
Daypack
Rucksacks
Waterproof Stuff Sacks (large and small)
Clothing:
Trekking Shirt - Pack 4 to 5 breathable trekking shirts, balancing both half and full sleeves.
Thermal Layer - At least one pair of a thermal layer.
Fleece Jacket - Pack a lightweight fleece jacket for the lower region.
Trekking Trousers - Minimum 2 water and wind-resistant trekking pants.
Trekking Shorts - Pack a couple of trekking shorts for lower reaches ofthe trek.
Lightweight, long underpants - pack 2-3 pairs.Down pants
Mid-weight long underpants - pack 2-3 pairs.
Down Jacket - Carry a high-quality down jacket to keep you warm from the extreme weather at the trek’s upper reaches.
Waterproof Shell Jacket - One waterproof jacket to stay protected in the wet weather.
Breathable Underwear - Carry at least 4 to 5 pairs of breathable and comfortable underwear.
Footwears:
Trekking shoes
Sandals/Trainers
Hiking Socks
Thermal Socks
Gaiter (For Winter)
Head Wears:
Warm Beanie
Sun Protection Hat
Balaclava
Fleece Hat
Neck Gaiter
Hand Wear:
A Pair of Inner Gloves
A Pair of Outer Gloves
Heavy gloves (mitten)
Sleeping Bags:
Sleeping Bag for Base Camp
Down Sleeping Bag - 20 to -40 degree celsius for extreme conditions
Thermarest Mattress (Cell Foam and Inflatable)
Medical:
First-aid Kit
Bandages
Antibiotic
Ibuprofens
Diamox
Paracetamol
Handy Plaster
Tincture Iodine
Other Accessories:
Trekking Poles
UV Protection Sunglasses
Water Bottle
Water Purification Tablets
Toiletries
Wet Tissues
Soap
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Shampoo
Garbage Bag
Headlamp with Spare Batteries
Hand Sanitizers
Sunscreen/Lip Balm
Trekking Towels
Camera
Portable Chargers
Pocket Knife
Umbrella/Raincoat
Climbing Gear List For Annapurna Expedition
These are some of the important climbing equipment that you should carry while taking on the Annapurna Expedition:
Climbing Boots
Summit Gloves
Climbing Helmet
Climbing Ropes
Down Suit
Crampons
Ice Axe
Ice Tools
Belay Device
Harness
Ascender
Lock Carabiner
Unlock Carabiner
Tape Slings
Prusik Loops
Snow Goggle
Head Light
Satellite Phone
Hand Warmer