This is one of the most interesting classic adventurous treks into Annapurna massif in the central west Nepal. It combines spectacular mountain scenery with an experience of the different Nepalese culture with varied topography to be found from the lowlands of central Nepal to the desolate heights of the Tibetan Plateau. A variety of ethnic groups and the ever-changing Himalayan landscape combine to make this trek a scenic and culturally diverse experience. This is a strenuous trek involving the crossing of a 5400M/17,100ft Pass at Thorong La, which at times is covered by snows.
Day 1
Drive from Kathmandu to BESI SAHAR (760M) approx, 8hrs.
Day 2
Trek to NAGDI (920M) about 6 hour’s walk.
Day 3
Trek to JAGAT (1290M) about 7 hour’s walk.
Day 4
Trek to DHARAPANI (1860M) about 6 hour’s walk.
Day 5
Trek to CHAME (2650M) about 4 hour’s walk.
Day 6
Trek to PISANG (3185M) about 7 hour’s walk.
Day 7
Trek to MANANG (3440M) about 5 hour’s walk.
Day 8
Rest day at MANANG for ACCLIMATISATION.
Day 9
Trek to CHURI LEDER (4250M) about 5 hour’s walk.
Day 10
Trek to THORONG PHEDI (4450M) about 4hour’s walk.
Day 11
Trek to MUKTINATH (3800M) via THORONG LA/PASS (5416M) about 9-10 hour’s walk.
Day 12
Rest day at MUKTINATH to explore the surroundings. Though you may advise to visit the pilgrimage site, which is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhist people. The holy shrines at Muktinath are in a grove of trees; include a Buddhist Gompa and the pagoda style temple of Vishnu Temple, containing an image of Lord Vishnu. Around the temple is a wall from which 108 waterspouts, cast in the shape of cows’ head pour forth-sacred water. Even more sacred water can be found inside the ancient Tibetan style Jawala Mai temple which is located just right of pagoda. In this Gompa, behind a tattered curtain, are small natural gas jets that produce a perpetual holy flame alongside a spring, which is believed as a source of the sacred water. This auspicious combination of earth, fire and water is responsible for the religious important of Muktinath.
Day 13
Trek down hill to MARPHA (2667M) about 7 hours walk.
Day 14
Trek to GHASA (2013M) about 7 hour’s walk.
Day 15
Trek to TATOPANI (1189M) about 6 hour’s walk.
Day 16
Rest day at TATOPANI to enjoy the natural hot spring bath.
Day 17
Trek to GHOREPANI (2853M) about 7-8 hour’s walk.
Day 18
An early morning, excursion to POON HILL (3210M) about an hour, provides an even better and unobstructed view of the High Himalayas such as Dhaulagiri I, II, IV, V, Annapurna ranges and Machhapuchhre/Mount Fish-tail. After detouring sometimes here, come down to GFHOREPANI for breakfast and after breakfast commence trek for TADAPANI (2640M) about 5 hour’s walk.
Day 19
Trek down to GHANDRUK (1952M) about 4 hour’s walk.
Day 20
Trek back to NAYA POOL about 5 hour’s walk. Drive back to Pokhara about one and half hour.
Best Seasons: Spring and Autumn
Grade: Moderate to Adventurous
Highest Point: 5416 M / THORONG LA PASS
Trekking Days: 20
Accommodation: Either Mountain Lodges, or Tented Camp