Annapurna Foothills Trek

Considered as an introductory trek yet Annapurna Foothills Trek fulfills the dream of mountain lovers with its spectacular view from Pun Hill.

 
 

Mode of Trekking (Lodge Trek) 
11 Days Trip 
7 Days Trek, 4 nights in Hotel.
Introductory

 
Introduction:

Annapurna Foothills trek is a very good introduction to the Himalayas, where you do not go very high but still enjoy the breathtaking view of the mountains and the tranquillity of the countryside. Along the trail of Annapurna Foothills trek we appreciate the magnificent oak and rhododendron forests as we ascend to alpine meadows that afford spectacular views of the Annapurna range. The Annapurna Foothills trek is a unique experience to visit the local schools and markets where cultural horizons are so different from the western world.

 
Itinerary:

Day 1. In Kathmandu 
Arrive in Kathmandu. Your group leader or the office representative will meet you at the airport and will transfer you to Hotel. Remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down jacket at 5 pm.  
Welcome dinner is organized at 6:30 pm in one of the traditional Nepali restaurants and this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the fellow group members before the trip.  
 
Day 2.  In Kathmandu 
In the morning we explore Kathmandu on an organized sightseeing tour visiting Boudhanath and Pusupathi Nath, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world and the most famous Hindu temple in the country.  The early afternoon is free to relax in the spacious hotel garden or you may wish to visit Thamel for any last-minute shopping. In the afternoon you will be supplied with trek departure information. 
 
Day 3. Fly to Pokhara & drive to Phedi, trek to Dhampus [1700m] 
Your trip starts with your 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. During your flight, you will be sightseeing the most magnificent and sensational view of Himalayan range. As your flight lands on Pokhara, you will be mesmerized by the irresistible visual treat of Manaslu and the Annapurna mountain range. After you land to Pokhara our bus will take you to trek starting point named Dhampus Phedi. From there onward begins your trekking in Annapurna mountain range. As you climb uphill, you will bask in the splendor of nature and your trails become more adventurous. Finally, after walking for 3 hours, you encounter several roadside teashops and at last your trail leads to the Gurung village of Dhampus. Here concludes your trip of the day. 
 
Day 4. Trek to Landrung 
After a glorious mountain sunrise we follow the trail through rhododendron forest. Your path narrows as it skirts round a ridge snout. On proceeding further you pass through Pothana and reach Deurali. As we walk along we will pass through a series of Gurung villages where lifestyles have not changed substantially over the centuries. After lunch we will follow a well-marked trail until we reach picturesque Gurung settlement of Landrung. Our Lodge affords spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hinchuli. 
 
Day 5. Trek to Ghandruk 
Our destination today is easily seen across the valley, the attractive Gurung village of Ghandruk. Unfortunately we have to descend to the valley bottom to get there. Slowly descending through the terraced land we reach the valley bottom where we will cross the Modi Khola (river) in a steel suspension bridge and commence our ascent. As we trek up the many staircases, we enjoy the beauty of the Himalaya at a relatively close range and observe the glaciers flowing from them to form the rivers below us. It really is a magnificent location and a photographer's delight.  After a good climb we enter the beautiful village of Ghandruk.  Here you get an opportunity to witness unique culture, tradition and customs of Gurung community. Ghandruk is a nicely located village where you get and excellent views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machapuchare. 
 
Day 6. Trek to Tadapani 
Leaving the terraced fields of Ghandruk, our trail meanders along the zigzag path on a steep slope. We walk in the canopy under the age old rhododendron and magnolia trees. We pass by water falls that cascade down narrow gullies that provide a perfect home for many small ferns and delicate plants. We finally reach Tadapani which is an ideal vantage point to glimpse the stunning Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machapuchare. 
 
Day 7. Trek to Ghorepani 
Today is a short walk down to the stream and we will cross a wooden bridge. Most of our walking would be through the rhododendron forest.  Lots of Langur monkeys to be seen today. So keep your eyes wide open.  After the stream about 3 hours of climb will take us to Deurali where we will stop for lunch. Continuing the ascent through conifer and rhododendron forest, we arrive at Ghorapani, which is a very colourful village with mountains like Dhaulagiri Annapurna's and Machapuchere in the background. Ghorepani means, "horse-water" and it is a welcome watering spot not only for teams of ponies but also for weary trekkers.  
 
Day 8. Trek to Tirkhedunga 
In the morning after having a cup of tea we will ascent the famous Poon Hill for the stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurnas, Tukuche Peak, Machapuchare and many others. After spending some great moments at the top we will come back down to Ghorepani for Breakfast. What goes up must come down today it applies in our itineray so it is a long descent through magnificent rhododendron and oak forests to Ulleri where we will stop for a lunch. From Ulleri, a very steep section leads down to Bhurungdi Khola valley and the small village of Tirkhedunga. 
 
Day 9. Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara 
An easy descent for 2 hours along the Bhurngdi Khola takes us to Birethati, a large prosperous village and ancient trade centre with Tibet. From here Nayapul is just 25 minutes walk where we will board the bus to Pokhara. Rest of the afternoon in Pokhara is free so you can enjoy boating in the Fewa Lake with some wonderful sunset views. 
 
Day 10. Fly to Kathmandu 
A scenic mountain flight back to Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel. Your Group Leader will collect the trek pack and then you are free to continue exploring this wonderful city, shop for souvenirs, get your photos processed and try out the various restaurants in Thamel. Your Group Leader will be happy to show you around and help you with your shopping.

Day 11. Trip concludes ( Unless further plans are made) 
After breakfast we transfer you to the airport for your flight home.

Equipments Check List
 
Fixed Departure Dates
 
Trip Cost
2 to 3 Star Hotel : 785 US$        
Flight Fare : 180 US$ OR Bus Fare : 30 US$ (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
      You will have a choice to take a 6 hours bus ride which leaves daily from Kathmandu. On the way lunch is provided.
5 Star Hotel : 1130 US$        
Flight Fare : 180 US$ OR Bus Fare : 30 US$ (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
      You will have a choice to take a 6 hours bus ride which leaves daily from Kathmandu. On the way lunch is provided.
 

The day-to-day schedule should be taken only as a general guide. A variety of factors, including adverse weather conditions, difficulty with transportation and politics can lead to enforced changes. Because of this it is not possible to guarantee that any of our holidays will run exactly according to the planned itinerary. The trip leader will make any changes, which are necessary.

 
 
NEPAL EXTENSIONS

There are a variety of interesting extensions you might choose to add on either before or after your trek. These options include:

Chitwan National Park: It provides excellent opportunities to view the rare species such as sloth bear, bison, rhinoceros, leopard and the exclusive tiger. Early morning jungle walks and safaris on elephant back are amongst the most popular activities. The jungle lodge can be reached from Kathmandu either by air or by private vehicle.

White Water Rafting: On the Trisuli or Seti Rivers.

Mount Everest Scenic Flight: An hour flight departs Kathmandu early morning and provides spectacular views of Mount Everest and the surrounding mountains.

Cultural Tour
Nepal boasts a rich cultural diversity, and it is well worth exploring. The Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal is a dream-world for many and reality for some. Once experienced they can never be forgotten, never dismissed from memory whether ones experience of them is visiting age-old Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries and royal palaces with amazing sculptures, paintings, legends and living rituals. Nepal is not only regarded as "Shangri-la" for adventurers but a scenic revelation and an educational in itself to all visitors. Once seen they become a part of you, habit-forming and intrusive. We have put our best effort to incorporate all cultural delights as well as natural beauty that Nepal has to offer, which you can chose depending on your time availability.

Please contact the Alps in Nepal office if you plan to extend your trip and let us know in advance.

 
What's Included:
  • Expert leadership ( Local Group Leader)
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu on bed and breakfast basis (two people sharing unless single supplement has been requested)
  • Trek Map/City Map
  • All the accommodation and food in local lodges are provided (two people sharing unless single supplement has been paid), occasional hot shower facilities (which your group leader will advice you), guides and porters.
  • Alps in Nepal provides you to use quality down sleeping bag and down jacket, inner liner and most importantly the hot water bag will be given every night to keep you warm.
  • Gamow bag( a life saving device in altitude)
  • National Park entrance fees
  • Alps in Nepal t-shirt, duffle bag and a memorable gift package as a souvenir
  • Welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali restaurant
  • Group medical kit
  • Airport transfers
  • Half day sightseeing tour
  • City Guide
  • Sight seeing tours entrance fees
  • Domestic airport taxes
  • All staff Insurance
  • Warm clothing and other required trekking gear for porters like Gortex jacket & trousers, trekking shoes / boots, sleeping bag / blanket, woolen hat, woolen gloves, woolen socks, sun glasses etc.
 
What's not Included:
  • Your international flights
  • Visa fees and visa extension costs
  • Medical examination(if required) and vaccination costs
  • Personal expenditure, bar bills, laundry, telephone calls etc.
  • Tipping at the end of the trip (tipping is a tradition through out Indian sub- continent. The staff works very hard and looks forward to your tip as an indication of a job well done. You should budget around 300 rupees for each trek day. If you wish to tip the leader, please do this in addition to the crew's tip.)
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu.
  • Personal clothing and equipment
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional trips
  • Charges incurred as a result of flight delays or cancellation which is beyond Alps in Nepal's control. Although we provide insurance letter which you can claim to your insurance company.
  • Anything not mentioned in the trip cost includes list
 
 
WHAT TO EXPECT
Life on the Trail

The trekking day typically starts at 6:30 a.m. with the appearance of smiling Sherpas at the door of your room or tent bearing a mug of steaming tea or coffee. This is soon followed by a bowl of hot water for washing. During breakfast the porters set off. We start walking after breakfast between 7:30 and 8:30 am. Everyone is free to walk at their pace, which is comfortable for them, stopping along the way to explore villages and take photographs. Lunch will be around 11:00 am and usually takes between 1 and 2 hours. The camping place/lodge is usually reached at around 4 pm. After tea and biscuits are served, and at around 6:30 to 7:00pm the evening meal is ready.

 
Expert Leadership

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. We have a very good selection of local leaders who are professionally trained and are among the most experienced in Nepal. Who better to look after you than your professional local leader, who speaks the language and knows the culture, intimately? The following people regularly lead this trek: 
 
Sanjay Gurung: Sanjay is an experienced trek leader who has been in this profession for last sixteen years. Besides trekking all over Nepal he has also led several trips to India and Tibet. His profound knowledge and easy going personality make him an ideal choice to lead treks for Alps in Nepal. 
 
Peter Chettri: Peter holds a very good sense of humour and adventurous spirit which has made him an asset to the company. He was born in Nepal and brought up in Sikkim. As a graduate in Arts, he has a good command over both spoken and written English. He has been leading treks with Alps in Nepal for four years. He has done a first aid training specialised in Acute Mountain Sickness. His excellent leadership has always earned a good reputation to the company. 
 
Ashim Subba:Ashim is a travel enthusiast who has always been keen on adventure. He went to the University in Calcutta and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Commerce. Apart from being fluent in Nepali and English, he also speaks Japanese and has been involved in trekking for last two years. He has completed the first aid training including high altitude medicine. His expertness as a leader is one of the keys to our success.

 
Fitness Level

We recommend that you begin a fitness program as soon as you have decided you are going trekking. Hill walking, up and down the steps, cycling, running and swimming are the main exercises to help prepare you for a trek. It is advisable to see the doctor before you come for trekking. Although we carry a comprehensive medical kit on each and every trips, we recommend our clients to inform us their medical problems in advance if any and also carry their personal first aid kit covering the basics.

 
Why Alps in Nepal is your first choice for Adventure

Alps in Nepal, combines the best of international standards with the deep knowledge of local experts. It offers you services and an experience that surpass those offered by the large international companies; with the reliability that local outfits lack. With over 15 years of experience we have successfully organized tours and treks for several thousand patrons who can testify the unique class of service we offer. Please feel free to ask us about the selection of your trip or for any further information.

 
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