Annapurna's Holy Lakes & Glaciers
This is an exciting and demanding trek high into the heart of the mighty Annapurna region, exploring some of the wild glacial areas below Annapurna South where few trekkers have gone before. The trek is one of great contrast, encompassing all the features of the area from the terraced village lowlands, through the forests and agricultural areas of the middle hill country, to the glacial basins of the Annapurna mountains. The trek starts from the sub-tropical Pokhara Valley and passes through paddy fields before gradually ascending through terraced hillsides of wheat and barley. At each of the villages along the way we are warmly received by the local Gurung and Magar people. The walking is sensibly paced so we have ample opportunity to experience and absorb local lifestyles that have changed little over centuries. From the start we enjoy ever-changing views of the stunning, snow-covered Annapurna mountains. Halfway through the trek we leave habitation behind and walk through rhododendron and oak forests, alive with exotic birds and beautiful flowers, to finally emerge above the tree line at Kopra Danda. Here we experience the stunning wilderness scenery beneath the towering peaks of Annapurna; to the west lies Dhaulagiri and far below lies the Kali Gandaki River Valley, which is the world’s deepest. As we climb higher above the tree line we enter a fantastic mountain wilderness visited only by local shepherds during the monsoon months. The truly spectacular vista is dominated by Annapurna I (8091m) and Dhaulagiri (8167m), the highest peaks in the region. However this unique trek concentrates on the unexplored wilderness around Annapurna South (7237m), a remote and magnificent area that is rarely visited. An exploration of the rugged area below Annapurna South is sure to be the highlight of our journey. This is an adventure for those truly looking for something exciting.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | (Sun) Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel. |
| 2 | Kathmandu sightseeing – explore Pashupatinath Temple and Bodhnath Stupa. Free afternoon. |
| 3 | Fly to Pokhara, drive into foothills and commence trek. |
| 4 | Trek through fields and villages to Upper Ghandruk. |
| 5-6 | Walk to Tadapani. Leave main trail and head through thick forest to Bayeli. |
| 7 | Ascend to Kopra Ridge. Views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu mountains. |
| 8-11 | Excursion to holy lake at Kaire. Cross remote high pass to Celli Kharka and explore Hidden Lake. |
| 12-13 | Traverse to Annapurna South Base Camp and view hanging glaciers. |
| 14-15 | Descend to Chhomrong village and follow Modi River to Shyauli. |
| 16 | Return to Pokhara. Free time to relax, shop or explore by the lake. |
| 17 | Fly back to Kathmandu. |
| 18 | Trip ends in Kathmandu this morning (Wed). |
Trip Highlights
Gallery
Video
From Our Blog
Past Travellers' Ratings & Comments
Tony - Canada, 30 Oct, 2011
Although the trip was generally good, Peregrine failed miserably in its communications with the clients. It was well known prior to our trip the weather was poor and winter was early. This was never communicated to us. We could have brought additional clothing if we knew the weather was different than planned and that winter was earlier than anticipated. In addition, it was known because of the poor weather and early winter, there was no chance we would be able to make it to the Annapurna South base camp. This was evident from the start of the trip and was confirmed by the Tour leader who stated only one group had made it to the South Base camp since the beginning of October. This information should have been conveyed to the clients and a discussion regarding what we wanted to do. This was very disappointing Peregrine did not have enough foresight and transparency to have this type of communication with its clients.
Patrick - United States, 09 Oct, 2011
I realy enjoied getting off the beaten track and camping for six nights. We diden't see any other trecking groups the entire time we were off trail.
At A Glance
Trip Length |
18 days |
Trip Code |
PHAP |
Activities |
|
| Trekking (Strenuous) | |
| Min Altitude | Max Altitude |
| 850m | 4700m |
Minimum Passengers |
|
| 6 people | |
Maximum Passengers |
|
| 14 people | |
Countries Visited |
|
| Nepal | |
Start City |
|
| Kathmandu | |
End City |
|
| Kathmandu | |
