Overview
Trekking into the Annapurna region is always considered as the most beautiful trekking route in Nepal. Trekking in Annapurna region Nepal offers to witness it’s stunning natural beauty and experiencing the local culture and traditions. Trekkers pass through many traditional high mountain settlements where people’s lifestyles haven’t been changed for ages. Besides you get to see several spectacular mountains like Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Himalchuli etc. Annapurna Grand Trekking is a combination of all the three best treks in the Annapurna region namely Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani Poon Hill trek and Annapurna Base Camp trekking. It is sort of Three passes trek in the Everest region where all the corners of Everest are explored. Likewise, this trek goes around visiting the most popular trekking trails in the Annapurna region. The highest point during the trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters above sea level.
Annapurna Grand Trekking is the best that Annapurna region has to offer. The trek covers all the popular highlights of trekking in the Annapurna. One gets to hike to Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters which is one of the highest in the world. Following Tilicho Lake is crossing over Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – the highest point during the trek. In winter, the pass will be snowbound and so is the Tilicho Lake which will be frozen in white snow. The trail then proceeds to another great trekking destination in Annapurna – Ghorepani and Poon Hill. You will witness plenty of culture and traditions on this route passing along many villages and small towns. Early morning hike to Poon Hill is most rewarding to see the sunrise over the Himalayas like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre Mountain ranges. Poon Hill is the most popular Himalayan viewpoint in Annapurna. Afterward, the trekking trail will take you to another famous trekking destination in the Annapurna region – Annapurna Base Camp. Pass along the beautiful mountain village of Ghandruk to observe the unique culture and traditions of Gurung community. Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters provides 360 degrees of Himalayan panorama and a great view of Mt. Annapurna. Grand trek to Annapurna starts from Kathmandu with the drive to Jagat and finally ends at Nayapul then drives to Pokhara. It’s one of the great trekking experiences in the Himalayas of Nepal and to actually feel the beauty of nature and to be part of the greatest Himalayan trek.
Outline Trekking Itinerary Annapurna Grand Trekking
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03: Meet at your hotel & drive from Kathmandu to Synge/Jagat (1100m) 8 hours drive
Day 04: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1960m) 6 hours walk
Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2630 m) 5 hours walk
Day 06: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300 m) 5 hours walk
Day 07: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,570 m) 4 hours walk
Day 08: Manang – Rest/Acclimatization Day
Day 09: Trek Manang to Khangsar (3,745m) 2- 3 hours walk
Day 10: Trek Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4,140m) 5- 6 hours walk
Day 11: Explore to Tilicho Lake and return to base camp (4,949m) 5- 6 hours walk
Day 12: Trek Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4,040m) 4- 5 hours walk
Day 13 Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,600 m), Duration: 3 – 4 hours walk
Day 14 Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800 m) crossing over the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) 7 – 8 hours walk
Day 15: Trek from Muktinath to Marpha (2710m) 5-6 hours walk
Day 16: Marpha to Tatopani (1190m) 4 hours drive
Day 17: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2870m) 5-6 hours walk
Day 18: Trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210m) to Tadapani (2710m) 6-7 hours walk
Day 19: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1940m) 2-3 Hours walk & rest
Day 20: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m) 4-5 hours walk
Day 21: Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2580m) 5-6 hours walk
Day 22: Trek from Dovan to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m) 5-6 hours walk
Day 23: Trek from MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) [2-3 Hours] & back to Dovan. 5-6 hours walk
Day 24: Trek from Dovan to Jhinu (1760) 5-6 hours walk
Day 25: Trek from Jhinu to Nayapul & drive to Pokhara (5-6 Hours trek, 1 hour drive)
Day 26: Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive or fly)
Day 27: Transfer to the Airport for your onward destination
Trip Highlights
- Witness magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks on the cards while flying across Nepal’s sky, and excitement level proliferates as the plane cuts through different hills to land on the Kathmandu Valley
- Enjoy sightseeing tour to various historical/natural/cultural heritage sites along with Nepal’s oldest Buddhist Monasteries
- Catch panoramic views of Annapurna range along with other adjacent mountains
- Relax in natural hot springs at Tatopani
- Climb Poon Hill to enjoy the most amazing sunrise
- Explore Annapurna Base Camp which provides the eye-popping view of Mt. Annapurna
- Pass through gushing rivers, green countryside, alpine meadows, valleys, glaciers etc
- Witness variety of floras and faunas
- Get along with ethnic people and their culture
Itinerary
On touching down at the International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by a representative of Break Free Adventures, who will chauffer you off to a three star hotel. You can then either refresh yourself or if the strength allows it, haunt the city to get a taste of it. You stay at the hotel for the night.
To get an understanding of the people and their culture, seeing historical sights and religious places, gives you a prospective of it. We take you sightseeing to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the old palace and its surround areas, from where the kings used to reign in the past. Then to Pashupatinath Temple, a historically temple devoted to Lord Shiva and a UNESCO heritage site and then it’s onto two important historically sites, a Buddhist Temple and a Stupa after lunch. They are where, Buddhist Pilgrims visit, Syambhunath, which also goes by the name Money Temple by tourist and Boudhanath. In the evening you will attend a seminar for your forth coming trek. You stay for the night at the same hotel.
Early in the morning drive to Beshisahar by local bus or private vehicle as per choice. From Beshisahar take a local jeep from to Jagat. This drive passes through small towns/villages which provide some insight of people living in the countryside of Nepal including their lifestyle and culture. You stay for the night at a lodge.
After breakfast, start the first day of our trek where trail winds up to Chyamje. It takes us uphill through the Oak forest after crossing a suspension bridge. Continue walking for a while until it emerges into a valley. En-route pass the village of Kodo until ascend to the Dharapani village. You stay for the night at a lodge.
Today the trail climbs along the mule track into a fir forest and then follows the river alongside the higher oak and maple trees. En-route witness spectacular views of major Himalayan peaks. You stay for the night at a lodge.
This day you will have to follow a steep and narrow river valley winding through deep woodland. On the way enjoy views of Pisang peak and Annapurna II which is just amazing. You stay for the night at a lodge
After breakfast, take the upper route to Manang via Ghyaru – Ngawal – Mungji. Today is spotting more astounding scenery with panoramic views of Annapurna, Pisang peak, and several others. This day you will notice a change in the landscape and vegetation. The cold dry climate creates a much harsher environment. Take a short visit to Barge monastery, the largest in the entire district of Manang. You stay for the night at a lodge.
Today is a rest day set for acclimatization to the higher altitude. You can rest in your lodge or visit the monastery with a side trip to Gangapurna Lake. Also explore around the local villages and visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic. You stay for the night at a lodge.
After breakfast you will have to head towards the route of Tilicho Lake which splits from the main trail that leading to the Thorung Pass. The trial takes you through the western gate then descends to the stream to finally reach Khangsar after crossing it. Khangsar is an ancient village of Tibetan Buddhists and noted as the last Tibetan village. You stay for the night at a lodge.
We hike through the newly built trail passing along a colorful monastery. There are clearly two different trails, but taking the downward trail is recommended. The upward trail goes through a steep and technical route via Kharka and Top of the Col (4970m) and descends to the base camp. The newly developed trail continues to a high crest and finally reach the Tilicho base camp. You stay for the night at a lodge.
Today is starting up the Tilicho lake excursion early in the morning. The trail ascends up to Tilicho Lake which is also considered as one of the highest Lakes in the world. Upon reaching, walk around the lake and explore its breathtaking beauty. This is a glacial lake with blue water and will be frozen during winter season. After clicking sufficient snaps, retrace to the same route back to the base camp. You stay for the night at a lodge.
The trail descends from Tilicho Base Camp to Manang then from Manang it ascends to Yak kharka. As the trail climbs to Yak Kharka through Tenki Manang, you leave the Marsyangdi Valley behind instead of taking the trail along the Jarsang Khola Valley. Here vegetation and yaks herds are thinner compared to that of Manang. You stay for the night at a lodge
This day take a two-hour-long ascent from Yak Kharka. Afterwards, the trail descends to a bridge over the river at 4,310m which you cross. The trail then goes up to Thorong Phedi which is the foot of the Thorong La Pass. Thorong Phedi is a small settlement but with busy trekkers from all around. You need to rest more today to prepare for crossing over the pass the next day or might want to hike to the High Camp today to make next day easier. You stay for the night at a lodge.
You get geared for the most waited part of the trip, as you need to in and over Thorung La Pass (5416m). The highest point is a rocky ridge. From that height, you get an elevated view of the complete Dhaulagiri Range. You then slowly and cautiously make you way down to Chabarbu and finally reach Muktinath in the evening, which is known for its Muktinath Temple, meaning temple of relief from what is troubling you; holy to both, Hindus and Buddhist alike. You stay for the night at a lodge.
You start the day’s hike by following the route via Kali Gandiki River to Jomsom, a place flocking with tourist all year around. You then follow the trail to Marpha, a village known for its apple brandy. You stay at a lodge for the night
Today is not trekking but a small drive by jeep since the old trail has lost all interest with the construction of road. The drive may take about 4 hours where you go through the deepest gorge of the world trapped between the Annapurna I(8091m) and the Dhaulagiri(8167m). A natural hot spring is located near the Tatopani village where you can enjoy bathing in the evening. You stay at a lodge for the night.
You need to prepared for today since it is big ascent today from Tatopani to Ghorepani. En-route you will pass along small villages like Shikha and Chitre. You stay at a lodge for the night.
Today we get to the main attraction for which we came, Poonhill from where we are offered stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre Mountain ranges. With the early morning hike to it while catching the scintillating sun rise over the mountain ranges and the cool pine and rhododendron woods through we hike. We take our time at the top taking in all wonders around it has to offer, after which, we set off for Tadapani. Getting to Tadapani just ahead of the sun sinking, we get a mesmerizing view of the sun set as dusk begins to take control. We stay at Tadapani at a guest house for the night.
Today, from Tadapani, we hike to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk. We descend down via the trail to Baisi Kharka crossing some streams, forests and finally getting to Ghandruk. Here we pay a visit to the village museum which showcases village life in Nepal. We stay the night at a lodge.
We start the day early with breakfast with the sun rising over the mountain peaks from Ghandruk. Then we start the hike to Chhomrung. We start by ascending up the trail for an hour to Ghandrukkot and then down to Kimron Khola. Here onwards it is steep hike right till Chhomrung (2170m). On the way we will be taken up by the views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre. Chhomrung is a small hamlet below the gigantic Annapurna. We stay the night at a lodge.
On having a hearty breakfast at Chhomrung, we start the hike for Dovan. The path takes along the Modi Khola after which we start climbing slowly up the forested slops, we then cross a suspension bridge and move down to Sinuwa Danda. After passing Sinuwa Danda, we hike to Khuldighar through a thick wood of rhododendron. Along a slop of stones into a thick bamboo groove and rhododendron wood, we finally get to Doven where we stop the night at a lodge.
Today we hike to the base camp of Machhapuchhre (3700 M). First, it is a slight descend on following a path above a river and a thick forest where we cross two streams and then through some lonely places with wonderful sceneries in which you might come across wild pigs, deer and snow leopards. Sometime afterwards, it is a climb to Hinko cave and then begin descending to Deurali. Once there, the path takes us via a river bed and up the side of a mountain. Ongoing further, it is Bagar where the path takes us to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) where you get lovely views of Machhapuchhare, Mount Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South and others. We stay the night at a lodge.
Finally today, we get to hike to Annapurna Base Camp which should take us about 3 hours to get to. Enjoying the scenes from so close, and seeing how it feels like at a base camp, we take the hike back to Dovan through some superb mountain and glacial sceneries. We stay the night at a lodge in Dovan
This day, we continue with the hike to Jhinu (1760 m). The path takes us uphill over stone steps to a ridge before getting to Sinuwa and then goes down till we reach Chhomrung, hiking further ahead, we reach Jhinu where we stay the night at a lodge.
Today we do some hiking for about 6 hours to get to Nayapul from where we are picked up and riven to Pokhara. In Pokhara, we are checked into a three star hotel for the night.
Today we head back to Kathmandu by tourist bus, taking all the rural sceneries on the way in. Alternatively, you can also fly to Kathmandu from Pokhara which is just 20 minutes flight. At Kathmandu you are checked into a three star hotel and then taken to an authentic Nepali restaurant for dinner with the staff of the company.
According to the time of your flight, a representative from Breakfree Adventures will drop you off at the airport to bid you farewell, three hours ahead of your flight for check in formalities.
At Breakfree Adventures, we simply hope you had an adventurous but safe and comfortable time with us.
Cost
What is Included
- Airport pick up/drop by a private vehicle.
- Three night’s accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast as per the itinerary.
- Guided Kathmandu city tour at 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites with private vehicle and guide.
- Kathmandu - Synge transfers by a local bus. (Option: private vehicle) Syange-Jagat by local jeep
- Marpha to Tatopani by local jeep en-route trek
- All accommodations during the trek at lodges/Teahouse.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
- Experienced Government licensed English speaking trekking guide and necessary porters (1 Porter for 2 trekkers) on the trek.
- Trekking staff costs like their transportation, food, accommodation, wages, and insurance.
- Nayapul - Pokhara transfers by a private vehicle.
- One night accommodation in Pokhara including breakfast as per the itinerary.
- Pokhara - Kathmandu transfers by a tourist bus. (Option: Flight or private vehicle)
- Annapurna Conservation area (ACAP) entrance permit fee.
- Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees. (Please bring 2 passport size photos for TIMS & ACAP Permit)
- First Aid medical kit (carried by your trek guide).
- Trek gears like duffle bag, down jacket, sleeping bag and walking pole. (To be returned after the trek)
- Our souvenir to you - Breakfree Adventures T-shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate.
- Farewell dinner in Authentic Nepali Restaurant after the trek completion.
- All government and local taxes, VAT.
What is Not Included
- Lunch or Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Monuments entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu.
- Nepal visa fee (bring accurate USD cash, US$30 per person for 15 days, and two passport photos)
- Extra accommodations in Kathmandu or Pokhara if required.
- International airfare and travel insurance.
- Any kinds of drinks or personal expenses (tea/coffee, hot chocolate, boiled water, bottled water, soft drinks, beer, phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, hot shower etc.)
- Tips for guide and porters.
FAQs
The best time to do Grand Annapurna trek is from October to November and mid-March to mid-April though the trek can be done round the year. September, October and November is autumn with October being the best month with dust-free trails. November and December is winter, so be prepared for colder days and nights. January expects heavy snowfall over the Thorong La pass and the route might be blocked. But February, March and early April bring warmer days. May is warm at lower regions but brings the risk of pre-monsoon rainfall. June, July and August is the monsoon season with flooding rivers and landslides to the unstable slopes.
Grand Annapurna trek difficulty level is a challenging trek. The trekking trails of Grand Annapurna trek are rocky, steep or slippery which also includes a lot of stairways which can add difficulty compared to walking on straight paths. Plus, the high and changing altitude makes the trek a bit difficult. Depending on the season, there can also be snow and ice on the trails especially during winter at Thorong La pass.
Though the trek is a moderately difficult graded hike, anyone with good physical fitness can accomplish this trek. Also, no previous trekking experience or technical experience is required. You are required to walk for four to six hours per day over hilly terrain. If you don’t have a previous trek experience or do not exercise regularly, we recommend that you go for a little exercise and daily walking before your trip. The hardest part of the trek is during the crossing over Thorong Phedi and Thorong La Pass.
Absolutely! You are recommended to get travel insurance that covers even at higher altitudes i.e. up to 5000m. The insurance policy usually doesn’t cover over 3,000 meters of altitude. So, make sure these things while purchasing travel insurance for Grand Annapurna trek and read their policies.
At higher altitudes, anyone might experience altitude sickness regardless of how you fit you are or age-difference. Those who haven’t lived at high altitudes may also suffer from altitude sickness (also called as AMS or altitude motion sickness). The highest point on this trek is Thorung La at 5,416 meters so altitude sickness can occur. The best thing to do is walk slow and proper hydration altitude sickness on Grand Annapurna trek can be prevented.
Family-run lodges often called ‘Teahouses’ are in the Annapurna region. Especially the higher you go accommodation is limited, so the room may differ from a private single/double room to a bed in a dormitory. Grand Annapurna trek accommodation is very basic accommodation and usually be shared shower and toilet facilities. All lodges have a communal dining hall. Though basic, these teahouses are clean and welcoming, friendly and warm resting place after a tiring day’s trek.
Lodges on the trail offer wide choices for foods and drinks. These contain typical Nepali meals to the continental dishes. Nepali dish ‘Dal Bhat’ with season vegetable and pickle. Or, go for pizza, momo, noodles, macaroni, sizzler, sandwich, burger, etc. Different types of coffee, fruit juice, and alcoholic drinks are also available. If you have booked a package tour then the company handles all costs. But if booked on service only then Grand Annapurna trek food cost to US$25-30 per person per day for lunch/dinner, where breakfast will be included. But on high altitude treks, avoiding alcoholic drinks is a good idea.
Bottled water can be bought or you can take along a bottle and fill the bottle with tap water with purifying tablets. These can be bought in Kathmandu before the trek. Most brands of purification tablets take just 30 minutes before you can drink. Drinking a minimum of 3 to 4 liters of water per day is recommended.
Bringing snacks and protein bars is good. Daily meal includes Dal Bhat – Nepali meal which is already high in carbohydrate. If you bring your own food, lodges may charge you an additional cost.
Yes, and trekking permit for Grand Annapurna trek includes ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) entry fee and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card. Annapurna conservation area entry fee is US$30 per person. TIMS card is US$10 per person. Both of the permits are already included while booking so you don’t have to worry about it.
Showers are available at Lodges. Especially the higher up you go there will usually be shared bathrooms in most lodges. A hot water shower needs to be paid per person. As you go higher, the colder it gets and you may have to think for the second time for a shower. Wait just a few days until your descent. Wet wipes can be used to clean your body but in trek it might come expensive. So it is good to buy them in Kathmandu.
You can bring trekking gear from your home country. They can also be bought in Kathmandu at many trekking shops around there. But, most of the trekking gears you get here are not up to standard though are comparatively cheaper. So, it’s up to you to decide.
Sickness depends upon its nature. For mild sickness usually descending to a lower altitude with the help and support of the guide or porter is done. For serious illness, emergency helicopter evacuation service is arranged. Our guide will be in constant contact with us and takes immediate action as per the situation. This is where travel insurance comes covering for a medical evacuation service and other medical expenses. Our guides carry first aid kit with basic medication like simple painkillers, altitude sickness tablets, bandages, balm for muscle aches and medication to treat diarrhea and vomiting. They are experienced trek guides and will take care of you if anything happens to you.
The trail to the Grand Annapurna trek is safe if certain precautions are taken. The riskiest and difficult part is Thorung la pass crossing which is one of Nepal’s highest passes. It’s safest to cross from east to west in terms of acclimatizing. Up till Manang trek is not so difficult but it’s a long way up at the pass in high altitude which might cause problems.
Booking the trek with us, we shall provide our experienced trek guide and necessary porters. Hiring a trekking staff or booking an organized trek is not mandatory but doing it individually without experienced staff completely depends upon you.
If you are fit and can carry your own baggage which comes to 15 kg maximum and walking the high mountain terrains then hiring a porter isn’t necessary. Otherwise, hiring a porter is a good idea where you only have to carry your day-pack. The maximum load is 15 kgs each porter.
Tipping is not mandatory but let’s not forget that it has become a custom to show gratitude towards your guide and porters who made it all possible for you to finish the trek. You can give them a certain amount as tips for trekking Grand Annapurna trek as per your desire at the end of the trek.
Wifi on trek is available but they might charge you for it. Free wi-fi might be found higher than Manang. WiFi can be infrequent, slow or unusable.
You do not have to carry much cash if you have booked a full tour package from your travel company since your trek guide shall take care of your accommodation and daily meals. Besides that only a few extra costs incur like for bottled water, charging mobile phones/cameras, shower, extra tea/coffee and of course alcoholic drinks also tipping your guide and porters. So, carrying Nepalese Rupees equivalent to a few hundred USD is recommended.
No, there is no ATM on the trek. Exchanging into Nepali rupees before the trek in Kathmandu is the only option.
Usually, it’s about 4-6 hours in most of the days. The walks must be slow and steady.
Your hotel where you stay in Kathmandu will store your luggage that you don’t want to take to trek without any charge. Later on, you can pick up your luggage after the trek.
Grand Annapurna trek gear list depends upon the season you travel. During winter warm clothes are suggested. These include down jacket, thermal longs and top, comfortable trekking trousers, t-shirts, fleece, windproof jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves. In monsoon requires rain gears are suggested and in summer, still requires light warm clothing. In most cases, your company already provides down jacket and sleeping bag. Besides, clothing can be purchased in Kathmandu at the Thamel area as well where numerous trekking shops exists with both local and foreign brands.
Grand Annapurna trek temperatures from October to November at lower regions are generally warm with an average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius. But areas above 4000 meters have a minus degree with freezing weather. March to May is good with crystal clear views with colorful blossoms of rhododendron and other wildflowers of the regions. Lower regions have 10 degrees temperature above 4000 meters is a freezing climate. From June to August is monsoon but Annapurna Circuit is at the rain-shadow area so receive less rain compared to other parts of Nepal. In December and January is the winter season and depending upon the altitude, the temperature varies with an average of 7-12 degrees Celsius on the lower regions and higher elevation has minus degrees even during day time.
Trip Information
We will provide you with comprehensive information on every trek and tour we arrange. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information or have any questions, we are more than happy to assist you in any way.
When to go:
Spring (mid-February, March, April, May) and Autumn (October, November) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. Trekking in summer/monsoon (June, July) will be affected by rain but summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist. Though Himalayan rain shadow areas like Upper Mustang and Kailash can be good during monsoon.
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is highly recommended and is in fact compulsory should you be going trekking, rafting, paragliding etc. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter rescue, loss of luggage, etc. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please check with your insurance company that adventure activities and trekking above 3000m are covered in your policy, as some companies do not cover such things. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on the holiday; if you cannot provide this at the start of the holiday, you will be required to take out a suitable policy at that time.
Meals and Accommodation:
In Kathmandu, we normally use 3 stars hotel with breakfast but can upgrade upon request. During the Grand Annapurna Trekking, we provide the best available guest house which is called Tea house (lodge). Tea Houses are more like hotels, with hot showers, western food, and private rooms (twin sharing). Some guesthouses are basic with shared washing and toilet facilities. If you are travelling in a group, you will share a room with someone else of the same gender from your group. If you prefer a single room, you may indicate your preference on request and pay a supplement. Keep in mind that there are several places which do not allow single accommodations during peak season, but we will try our best to accommodate your preferences if possible. In this arrangement overnight halts with dinner and breakfast will be in Tea-houses (Lodges) and lunches in local restaurants en-route. Furthermore as you will be staying in locally owned lodges you will be benefiting and interacting with the local community. It will give you a true feel for the Nepalese people and their lives.
We provide quality food in sufficient quantities (breakfast, lunch and dinner) from guesthouses chosen from a menu. While Royal Trekking, your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the best value meals possible. Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not normally extensive due to the extreme locations. Most teahouses offer a variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There will also be plenty of snacks available such as biscuits, chocolate and soft drinks and in some areas you will find fresh fruit in season. You can buy bottled mineral water from local lodges and shops en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.
Fitness and Experience Required:
Our 27 days Grand Annapurna Trekking is a challenging trek suitable for passionate walkers who have the ability to walk at least 4-5 hours a day with a light day pack. Walking in higher altitude is physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if you are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have positive attitude, self confidence and strong determination, you can accomplish the 21 days Annapurna Circuit Trekking successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly for some weeks prior of the trip is good idea to enhance your strength and stability. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should inform us before booking the trek.
The Trekking Group:
For the Grand Annapurna Trekking, there will be one Guide, assistant Guide (8 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porters for luggage carrying (2 trekkers: 1 porter). This arrangement ensures that should anybody in the group is sick, the trip can still go ahead as planned. We can run the Annapurna Base Camp trek for group of any size, but generally have a maximum of sixteen people, as weve found this to be the optimum size for a successful trip. However, if youd like to make a group booking for more than twelve people together, we can arrange this too.
Trekking Guides and Staff:
The most significant thing that makes your Grand Annapurna Trekking successful, enjoyable and memorable is the expert, experienced, courteous and helpful trek and Guide and the crew members who have ability of operating your days in the mountain smoothly. Your trip will be led by the best and most professional Guide. All of our Trekking Guides are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, Guiding skills and personal aptitude. With an objective of sustaining local communities Breakfree Adventures employs staffs who have plenty of knowledgeable about culture, flora and fauna, geography, and history of Nepal. Trekking Guide of Breakfree Adventures are also trained with following trainings to make them educated on potential medical issues during their trek, biodiversity and environmental issues, English language, etc:
• Intensive Wilderness First Aid – KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project)
• Trekking Guide Training – Nepal Governments Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation department of Hotel Management and Tourism Training Centre of Nepal
• Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal)
• English Language – KEEP(Kathmandu environment education project)
• Conservation and Biodiversity TAAN
• Rock, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (Climbing leaders) Nepal Mountaineering Association
Our Trekking Guides obviously speak English sufficient enough to communicate but please consider this is not our mother language. The guides and porters know the routes and locality like the back of their hand, they practice the local culture themselves and they are extremely passionate about their country and its cultural aspects.
Climate and Weather:
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is late September to December, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good and days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.
Himalayan weather can be unpredictable where nights are generally cooler and days warmer. It’s a bit colder during the winter season (Jan to Feb) but days can be quite warm and lovely if the sun is shining. You can expect a bit of snow in the months of January/February and December. Expect the unexpected! The temperature could be as high as 20 deg C to -15 deg C low.
Safety and Security:
Security and safety are a high priority of our company however there are risks associated with adventure travel, that you should consider before booking. Our trip operators constantly monitor their areas of operation and will cancel or re-route a trip if they feel a destination is unsafe. The decision to travel to a particular country or region is a personnel one.
Responsible Travel:
Breakfree Adventures is a leading trekking and travel agency with dedicated travel Professionals who are well trained to give you the best of what Nepal has to offer. Our professional team follows a social philosophy that accepts responsibility for the local people and the environment in which we work. We respect the natural environment and the culture of our country, and we help travellers from around the world discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Nepal. We know that responsible travel tries to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment and maximize employment and income-generating opportunities for local communities. The whole of Nepal, including those living in remote rural areas that have very few other opportunities for development, benefits from sustainable tourism.
Breakfree Adventures is passionate about preserving the environment. As responsible tour guides in Nepal, we strive to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the local communities through which we travel. While trekking to different destinations, we choose environmentally- friendly lodges that respect the needs of their staff members. We take care of our staff as well as our valued clients. During our treks and other trips, we follow a zero garbage policy (“pack in, pack out”) and leave nothing behind in the campsites. We always welcome your feedback and comments regarding responsible travel, so please send an e-mail to let us know what you think.
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