Highlights
- Experience the magnificent scenery of the Annapurna region
- Embark on short, scenic treks between mountain villages
- Spend each night in comfort at a series of luxury lodges
- Discover the area's rich Gurung culture
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Pokhara to Hemja, Trek to Astam Village | Astam |
| Day 2 | Trek from Astam Village to Dhampus | Dhampus |
| Day 3 | Trek from Dhampus to Landruk | Landruk |
| Day 4 | Trek from Landruk to Ghandruk | Ghandruk |
| Day 5 | Trek from Ghandruk to Kimche, Drive to Pokhara & Departure | Pokhara |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Hemja, Trek to Astam Village
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival in the city of Pokhara, you'll be met by your guide and hit the road for the short drive to the township of Hemja. Here you'll swap wheels for boots and trek your way to the stunning hilltop village of Astam.
The first route is a Jeep trail which starts off steeply but levels out for a gradual 2.5-hour climb, passing through a lovely village where you can stop for a cup of Nepali tea. Alternatively, you can take a steep trail that follows the ridgeline, with breathtaking views of the mountains (weather permitting) and the surrounding forest. You'll even come across a fascinating local shrine to the naga (snake gods) en route.
Your destination for the night is a cottage in the small resort of Hana No Ie (House of Flowers). Perched on a hillside in the beautiful village of Astam, you'll be greeted with amazing views of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Mountain) surrounded by the peaks of the Annapurna section of the Himalaya.
Walking time: 2-3 hours
Elevation: 4,921 feet (1,500 m)
Day 2: Trek from Astam Village to Dhampus
This morning you'll rise to spectacular views over snowcapped peaks and a fantastic, locally-sourced breakfast to get you ready for today’s trek.
Then it's time to hit the trail and follow the ridgeline to the beautiful Gurung village of Dhampus. The Gurung people are a famous ethnic group of Nepal, well known for their role in the Gorkha regiments of the Nepali, Indian, and British armies. The lodge where you'll spend the night isn't your average Himalayan teahouse: the luxury Basanta Lodge, run by the luxurious Ker & Downey group, has comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms, delicious food, and sweeping mountain views. Take in an unforgettable sunset from the garden as you relax with happy hour drinks.
Walking time: 3-4 hours
Elevation: 5,577 feet (1,700 m)
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Trek from Dhampus to Landruk
Today's trek takes you uphill through rhododendron and orchid forests, passing through Pothana to reach Deurali. From on top of the ridge at Deurali you'll be greeted by magnificent views of the mountains, including Mount Dhaulagiri, the highest peak in this region. After a well-earned rest, descend through the small, culturally rich Gurung villages of Tolka and Beri Kharka. From here, the trail winds downhill through scattered forests and villages to reach Landruk. Situated above the Modi River, this large Gurung village is home to the beautiful La Bee Lodge, where you'll enjoy a memorable dinner and get settled in for the night.
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Elevation: 5,216 feet (1,590 m)
Day 4: Trek from Landruk to Ghandruk
After breakfast, you'll trek steeply down towards the Modi River for about an hour before heading uphill again with a steep ascent sustained by the beautiful views of the Himalaya, terraced fields, and scattered villages. Lunch will be served en route before you continue to Ghandruk, a picturesque town of slate-roofed houses with panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhare. Get settled into Himalaya Lodge, another stunning Ker & Downey retreat, then spend the afternoon exploring the charming village.
If time permits, visit the Annapurna Mountain Conservation Area Project (ACAP) headquarters. The ACAP is the first conservation area and the largest protected area in Nepal. Rich in biodiversity, the area offers over 1,000 species of flowering plants, mammals, amphibians, and birds. You can learn about tourism management (and its effect on the environment) and activities that benefit local communities
Walking time: 4 hours
Elevation: 6,364 feet (1,940 m)
Day 5: Trek from Ghandruk to Kimche, Drive to Pokhara & Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast in the mountains before descending along gentle paved trails through forest and terraced fields to Kimchi. Here you'll say goodbye to your wonderful trekking crew and make the return drive to Pokhara.
If you have free time to spend in this scenic lakeside town, there's an abundance of activities on offer. Go for a leisurely boat ride on the lake, or visit one of the Tibetan villages that dot the area, where Tibetan carpets and other handicrafts can be obtained while supporting the vibrant refugee community. Hire a bike and cycle along the lakeside, try your hand at tandem paragliding, or just relax and take in the surroundings in one of the many lakeside cafes.
When the time comes, you'll bid the Himalaya farewell and continue your onward journey. Safe travels!
Walking time: 1-2 hours
Elevation: 5,347 feet (1,630 m)
More Nepal Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Nepal? Check out these other Nepal itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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