Annapurna
Trip Overview
The Annapurna Expedition (8,091m) stands among the most challenging and respected climbs in the Himalaya. Known for its technical difficulty, complex terrain, and serious commitment, Annapurna I attracts experienced mountaineers seeking a true high-altitude expedition beyond the more commercial peaks.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where preparation, permits, and final logistics are carefully managed by the expert team at Himalayan Karma Treks. From here, you travel to Pokhara, a scenic lakeside city that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region. The route continues toward Beni and Lete, gradually leaving behind developed areas and entering remote mountain terrain.
The trekking phase follows a less-traveled route through Thulobugin, Hum Khola, and Miristi Khola. This section is physically demanding and requires full camping support, offering a raw and immersive Himalayan experience. The trail passes through dense forests, river valleys, and rugged landscapes, eventually leading to Annapurna Base Camp via the remote northern approach.
At Base Camp, the expedition transitions into the climbing phase. Annapurna is known for its steep faces, avalanche-prone slopes, and technical challenges, making it one of the most serious 8000m climbs. Climbers undertake multiple acclimatization rotations, establishing higher camps and preparing for a carefully timed summit push.
Reaching the summit of Annapurna is a significant achievement, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants. After the climb, the descent retraces the route back through Miristi Khola and Lete, followed by a return to Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Highlights
● Summit attempt of Mount Annapurna I (8,091m), the tenth-highest mountain in the world
● One of the most technically demanding 8000m expeditions
● Scenic journey through Pokhara, Beni, and Kali Gandaki valley
● Remote approach via Miristi Khola to Annapurna Base Camp
● Diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to high alpine terrain
● Full expedition experience with advanced climbing logistics
● Less crowded and highly rewarding Himalayan climb
Itinerary
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Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The day is free to rest or explore the city.
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Day 2 : Preparation, briefings, and expedition formalities.
This day is dedicated to official briefings, gear checks, last-minute shopping, and completing all necessary permits and documentation.
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Day 3 : Drive or fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
You travel to Pokhara either by a scenic flight or an overland drive. Upon arrival, you check into your hotel and prepare for the journey ahead.
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Day 4 : Drive from Pokhara to Beni and onward to Lete.
The drive follows the Kali Gandaki valley, passing through rural landscapes and gradually entering the mountainous region. Overnight stay at a teahouse.
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Day 5 : Trek from Lete to Thulobugin.
The trail leaves the main trekking route and enters a quieter path through forests and remote terrain. Camping is required from this point onward.
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Day 6 : Trek from Thulobugin to Hum Khola.
A steady trek through forested sections and river valleys brings you deeper into the remote Annapurna region.
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Day 7 : Trek from Hum Khola to Miristi Khola.
The route becomes more rugged as you follow the river upstream, surrounded by steep terrain and dramatic landscapes.
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Day 8 : Trek from Miristi Khola to Annapurna Base Camp.
A demanding ascent over glacial terrain leads to Base Camp, where the expedition phase begins with full camping setup.
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Day 9-35 : Climbing period.
This phase includes acclimatization rotations, technical training, and summit attempt of Mount Annapurna (8,091m). Climbers establish higher camps and plan the summit push based on weather and safety conditions.
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Day 36 : Trek down from Base Camp to Miristi Khola.
After completing the climb, the descent begins with a return to lower altitude and familiar terrain.
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Day 37 : Trek from Miristi Khola to Thulobugin.
The trail retraces through remote landscapes, gradually easing in difficulty as altitude decreases.
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Day 38 : Trek from Thulobugin to Lete.
You rejoin the main trekking route and transition back to teahouse accommodation.
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Day 39 : Drive from Lete to Pokhara via Tatopani.
A scenic drive takes you back to Pokhara, where you check into your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest.
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Day 40 : Drive or fly to Kathmandu.
Return to Kathmandu and check into your hotel for the final days of the trip.
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Day 41 : Debriefing, rest day, and farewell dinner.
A buffer day for rest, shopping, or recovery, followed by a farewell dinner to celebrate the expedition.
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Day 42 : Final departure.
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Route Map
Cost Inclusion
- Annapurna climbing permit and all government fees
- Expedition liaison officer and official documentation
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
- Ground transportation (Kathmandu–Pokhara–Beni–Lete and return)
- Teahouse accommodation in lower trekking sections
- Full camping support during trek and expedition
- Full board meals during trekking and climbing period
- Experienced expedition leader and Sherpa team
- Porters and support staff
- Base Camp and high camp setup (tents, kitchen, dining facilities)
- Fixed ropes and route fixing support
- Supplemental oxygen cylinders, masks, and regulators
- Medical kit and high-altitude support
- Communication equipment and weather forecasting
- Staff insurance, wages, and logistics support
- Waste management and environmental fees
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Personal climbing equipment
- Travel and evacuation insurance
- Personal expenses (WiFi, drinks, charging, laundry)
- Extra hotel nights
- Personal Sherpa services or additional oxygen usage
- Tips for guides and staff
- Any services not mentioned in the inclusions