Annapurna & Nar Phu Expedition

We meet you on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. After check in, you settle in and take an unhurried first wander through Kathmandu at your own pace. Later, we share a short briefing on the journey ahead – a helpful introduction to the cultural and natural highlights to come.

You have time to unwind or explore the lively lanes of Thamel at your own pace. This evening we meet for an informal briefing on the tour and the local area – a relaxed chance to ask questions and get your bearings.

We leave Kathmandu by road, travelling west towards Pokhara before turning north into the hills. The drive follows river valleys with distant views of snowy peaks as we arrive in Besi Sahar.

We travel by jeep up the Marsyangdi Valley from Besi Sahar to Koto, the track winding through steep gorges and small villages – taking us deeper into the Annapurna region to the start of our trek.

We begin our trek from Koto, following the Soti Khola through pine and rhododendron forest. We cross suspension bridges and make steady ascents via Dharmasala to reach Meta – our first expansive views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.

We continue from Meta into the remote Nar and Phu region, passing colourful chortens and isolated hamlets. Nearing Phu, a line of chortens and a bridge mark our approach to this traditional village with strong Tibetan influences.

We spend an acclimatisation day in Phu – taking time to wander the narrow lanes and watch village life. If you wish, you can hike further towards Himlung Himal Base Camp for extra views and exercise.

We retrace part of our route from Phu before turning towards Nar Phedi Monastery. Simple yet comfortable rooms await, and we join the novice monks for evening prayers – a memorable overnight stay.

We follow a winding path from Nar Phedi up to Nar village, enjoying views of Kang Garu when the weather is clear. On arrival, we step into a lively village square – ringed by fields and framed by mountain scenery.

We set off early from Nar, ascending through yak pastures to the high Kang La Pass. From the top we savour superb views of Annapurna II, Tilicho Peak and Gangapurna, before a steep scree descent to Ngawal on the main circuit.

We trek along the valley, passing through Braka and its monastery, then continue to Manang – a welcoming stop on the circuit with several lodges and small shops. You can browse for essentials or simply unwind before the next day’s walk.

We leave Manang and follow the Jargeng Khola, climbing steadily past scattered houses and broad grazing meadows. The trail rises into more open country and we reach Yak Kharka, where the panorama widens and peaks – including the Glacier Dome – open out around us.

We continue our climb through Churi Lethar, cross the Jargeng Khola, and make our way to Thorong Phedi. Today’s walking is shorter but the altitude higher, so we take it slowly – preparing for the big pass tomorrow.

We make a very early start for the long, steady ascent to the Thorung La Pass at 5,416 metres, rewarded with sweeping views from the top. A steep descent then brings us to the pilgrimage town of Muktinath – home to an eternal flame and a temple complex.

We descend from Muktinath into the Kali Gandaki Valley – you can follow the road or take the quieter, scenic trail. We finish the day in or near Kagbeni, a characterful Lower Mustang village with fine views of Dhaulagiri.

We leave the main circuit again and climb into the hills on the western side of the Kali Gandaki Valley – several route options lead through high, increasingly barren terrain to the small village of Dhagarjung.

On our final day on the trail, we cross the Windy Pass of Bhatase Bhanjyang and descend towards Jomsom. Rather than stopping there, we continue to Marpha – an attractive stone–built village that has preserved its traditional architecture.

We rest our legs and travel by shared jeep or bus down the Kali Gandaki Valley from Marpha to Tatopani – a scenic route that passes villages such as Kalopani and Ghasa as we descend into lower, warmer country. You have the afternoon free in Tatopani, where the natural hot springs offer welcome relief – soaking in the warm pools by the river is one of the lower valley’s simple pleasures.

We continue by road from Tatopani to Pokhara, the lively lakeside town. As we arrive in the bustling Lakeside district beside Phewa Lake, the mountains frame the horizon. You can relax by the water – linger in cafés, browse the shops and enjoy the peaceful setting.

We travel by tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu, following winding roads alongside rivers as we leave the Annapurna region. On arrival, you have free time to rest after the journey or explore the lively lanes of Thamel. This evening we meet for an informal briefing about the tour and the local area.

After your flight, you can take some time to rest or wander the lively lanes of Thamel. This evening we provide an informal briefing on the tour and the local area – a relaxed chance to ask questions and get your bearings. When it is time to leave, we arrange your transfer from your Kathmandu hotel to the airport – say a fond farewell to Nepal as you board your departing flight.