Mt. Annapurna I Expedition (Without Domestic & Helicopter Flights)

Trip Facts
  • Duration 47 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Level Technical
  • Max Altitude 8,091m (26,545 ft)
  • Trip Start and End Kaathmandu
  • Best Season Spring(Mar-May) and Autumn (sept-Nov)
Highlights
  • Top-of-the-line Safety & Support: The 1:1 guide ratio, an experienced Sherpa team, a 24/7 rescue support system, and state-of-the-art equipment will keep you safe.
  • Expertly Curated Itinerary: Enjoy a rigorously planned 40-day expedition, designed for maximum acclimatization and technical training — the formula for high summit success.
  • Exclusive High-Altitude Training: The highly instructive training sessions will include ice axe techniques, fixed rope work, and oxygen management to introduce you to the technical challenges ahead.
  • Unrivaled Summit Achievement:  Just after the successful summiting of the mountain peak, you will be awarded a personal Achievement Certificate on Mt. Annapurna I, proving your presence at one of the world's most challenging peaks.
  • Cultural Immersion & Local Connections: Meet the local Sherpa communities, pay a visit to ancient monasteries, and receive genuine Nepalese hospitality all through the journey.
  • Access to Remote & Untouched Terrain: Hike up to the least-visited areas of the Annapurna massif and experience the pristine beauty of the Himalayas.
  • Team Spirit & Camaraderie: Build lasting friendships with fellow climbers and share unforgettable experiences on this epic adventure.
  • Eco-Friendly Expedition: All sustainable activities conducted from waste management to resource conservation at Base Camp will make the least adverse impact on the natural environment.
  • Real-Time Weather & Route Updates: The continuous monitoring of the weather and updating of the safety of the route will ensure it is a secure and coordinated expedition.

Overview

Treat yourself to a 47-day epic journey to the heart of Nepal while attempting the legendary Mt. Annapurna I expedition. This expedition offers a truly immersive experience, combining cultural exploration, challenging trekking, and high-altitude technical climbing—all accomplished using ground transportation. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to quiet camps, you will experience first-hand hospitality from Nepalese culture while enjoying endless views of the Himalayas. Get ready to push your limits and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Itinerary

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  • Arrival and Transfer: Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport at Kathmandu, Nepal, where you will be met by our representatives who will cordially welcome you. A comfortably timed transfer and a 30-minute ride later will see you checked in at your hotel/resort where you can then rest.
  • Evening Briefing: There will be a pre-briefing in the office/hotel regarding the trek, the details of the upcoming Annapurna expedition will be covered.    
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • Max Altitude1,400
  • Early Morning: Attend the pre-trip meeting for gear check, down jackets, and important documents. That's followed by an orientation on what to expect with the upcoming Annapurna base camp trek.
  • Afternoon: Guided sightseeing will be followed for visiting Kathmandu city, which will involve visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Durbar Squares, Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Swyambhunath)
  • Evening: You'll be driven back to the hotel and prepped for the journey that commences the following day. 
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Transfer: Enjoy a scenic 6–7 hour drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway, taking in picturesque landscapes along the way.
  • Evening at Pokhara: Get to the lakeside town of Pokhara and transfer to a lakeside hotel/resort. While in Pokhara, some free time can be utilized to walk around Fewa Lake and visit Talbarahi Temple. 
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsBLD
  • Drive: Approx. A 1.5 to 2 hours journey will take you from Pokhara to Nayapul
  • Trek: The trek starts from Nayapul (1,070m / 3,510ft) to Tikhedhunga (1,540m / 5,052ft) in about 3 - 4 hours. You'll walk through the Modi Khola, which is a very nice scenic walk.
  • Overnight: Tikhedhunga in a teahouse lodge. 
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude1,540m
  • Trek: Commence the journey early after having a cup of tea or coffee, and set off from Tikhedhunga. The long stone stair is located to Ulleri and Nangethanti through rhododendrons and oak woods. 
  • Destination: Arrive in Ghorepani (2,855m / 9,366ft) after a 5–6 hour trek.
  • Overnight: Ghorepani in a tea house lodge. 
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude2,855m
  • Hike: Wake up early, say around 4:30-5:00 a.m. in the dawn time, and start hiking for Poonhill (3,210m / 10,531ft), which is exactly an hour's distance offering you one of the best, panoramic views to the sunrise in between the snow-capped mountains of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in the Annapurna region of Nepal. 
  • Trek: Drive back to Ghorepani after completing an early morning visit to Poonhill for breakfast. Start descending to Tatopani at an altitude of 1,190 m / 3,904 ft along the different suspension bridges and a few fields with a beautiful terrace to offer. 
  • Overnight: Lodge in Tatopani.
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude3,210m
  • Trek: Embark on a 6–7 hour trek from Tatopani to Ghasa (2,010m / 6,594ft), walking alongside the Kali Gandaki River and through vibrant local villages.
  • Overnight: Lodge in Ghasa.
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude2,010m
  • Trek: Probably 4 to 5 hours of an enjoyable trek will take you from Ghasa to Lete at an altitude of 2,480m. Most of the trails go through thick pine forests with many chances of bird watching during the journey.
  • Overnight: Lete in the lodge. 
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude2,480m
  • Trek: Have breakfast and commence your trek which will take almost 5-6 hours, moving toward Thulo Bugin Campsite, 3,260 m, among immense bamboo.
  • Overnight: Thulo Bugin Campsite. 
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude3,260m
  • Trek: This will go for about 8 km and a walk time of about a maximum of 4-5 hours. This part of the trek from Thulo Bugin will lead to Hum Khola, which is positioned at an elevation of 4,286m.
  • Overnight: Tented Camp at Hum Khola 
  • Accommodation Tent
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude4,286m
  • Trek: Spend 4–5 hours trekking over rugged terrains and glacial streams to reach Miristi Khola (4,130m / 13,550ft).
  • Overnight: Tented Camp at Miristi Khola.
  • Accommodation Tent
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude4,130m
  • Trek: Trek for 4–5 hours from Miristi Khola to the North Base Camp of Annapurna (4,190m / 13,746ft), experiencing stunning icy landscapes and high-altitude serenity.
  • Overnight: Tented Camp at North Base Camp.
  • Accommodation Tent
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude4,190m
  • Climbing Phase: Over these 26 days, you'll transition from the North Base Camp through multiple high-altitude camps.
  • High Camps: Establish and rest at several camps (Camp I, Camp II, Camp III, etc.), gradually ascending higher as you prepare for the summit push.
  • Acclimatization & Training: Engage in regular acclimatization hikes, technical training sessions (rope, ice axe, crampons, etc.), and routine health checks.
  • Summit Push: On a carefully chosen day (weather permitting), begin the summit push in the early hours, reach the summit of Annapurna I, celebrate your achievement with panoramic 360° views, and then carefully descend back to base camp.

Note: Detailed daily climbing schedules will be adjusted based on weather and group acclimatization.

  • Accommodation Tent
  • MealsFul board
  • Max Altitude8,091m
  • Trek: Start to trek downwards from the base camp to reach Miristi Khola after about 4-5 hours. 
  • Overnight: Tented Camp in Miristi Khola. 
  • Accommodation Tent
  • MealsBLD
  • Trek: Retrace your steps and trek for 5–6 hours to reach Thulo Bugin Campsite again.
  • Overnight: Tented Camp at Thulo Bugin.
  • Accommodation Tent
  • MealsBLD
  • Trek: Keep trekking down from the campsite for around 4-5 hours, crossing several valleys en route to Lete.
  • Overnight: lodge in Lete. 
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Hiking: The trail drops off from Lete to Ghasa for 5–6 hours. The walk is downhill to Ghasa, offering you even more familiar sights and village life.
  • Overnight: at the teahouse lodge in Ghasa. 
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Trek: Head out from Ghasa and walk down to Tatopani, which takes around 5-6 hours. This includes a refreshing stop at Rukse waterfall.
  • Overnight: at Tatopani in tea house lodge; enjoy the soothing hot springs. 
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Trek: The trail from Tatopani to Beni is about 4/5 hours.
  • Drive: You will enjoy a scenic, pleasant 2-3-hour drive downhill covering a distance of roughly 80 km from Beni to Pokhara. 
  • Overnight: at the hotel/resort in Pokhara. 
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsBLD
  • 52nd day: Drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara.
  • Drive: Enjoy a scenic five-hour drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara along the Trishuli River. 
  • Overnight: at the hotel in Kathmandu. 
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • Explore: Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu. Visit local markets, and UNESCO heritage sites, or simply relax at your hotel.
  • Farewell: In the late afternoon, take a stroll through the vibrant city, and in the evening, join a farewell celebration dinner with cultural performances.
  • Overnight: Kathmandu
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsFarewell Dinner
  • Departure: After a final breakfast, our representative will transfer you in a private vehicle to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.
  • Farewell: Say goodbye to Nepal with unforgettable memories of your epic Annapurna expedition.
  • MealsBreakfast

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Route Map

Mt. Annapurna I Expedition (Without Domestic & Helicopter Flights) map
Included
  • πŸ›¬ Arrival & Departure Transfers:

    • Private airport-hotel transfers in Kathmandu.
  • 🏨 Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu:

    • 4 nights in a 4-star hotel (bed & breakfast, single room).
  • 🍽️ Welcome Dinner:

    • A warm welcome dinner in Kathmandu with our office staff.
  • πŸ“¦ Cargo Clearance:

    • Assistance with cargo clearance at Nepal Customs (clearance cost may apply).
  • 🏨 Hotel Accommodation in Pokhara:

    • 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara (shared room, bed & breakfast).
  • πŸ“ Permits:

    • All required permits (Mt Annapurna I climbing permit, conservation area entry permits, government fees).
  • πŸ‘₯ Liaison Officer:

    • One government liaison officer with full equipment, salary, and accommodation.
  • ♻️ Garbage Management:

    • Assistance with stool shipment transfer & garbage deposit fees.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Insurance for Staff:

    • Medical & emergency rescue insurance for all Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
  • πŸ—ΊοΈ Maps & Branded Gear:

    • Trekking and climbing maps and a branded duffle bag are provided by our agency.
  • 🚍 Ground Transportation:

    • Organized ground transfers (e.g., Kathmandu to Tatopani, and return) via shared tourist vehicles as per the itinerary.
  • 🚚 Equipment Transportation:

    • Transportation of all necessary expedition equipment from Kathmandu to base camp (by truck, mules, or porters) and back.
  • πŸŽ’ Luggage Support:

    • Up to 60 kg per member carried by porters or mules.
  • 🍲 Food & Lodging:

    • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee) during the trek and at Base Camp.
    • Hygienic, fresh meals (green vegetables, meat, fruits, soft drinks, juices) served throughout the expedition.
  • πŸ‘Ÿ Porter & Base Camp Staff:

    • Porter service (one porter per member for transfers) and experienced Base Camp cooks and kitchen helpers.
  • πŸ’Ό Staff Salary & Allowances:

    • All daily wages, equipment, food, clothing, and personal insurance for Nepalese staff and porters.
  • β›Ί Base Camp Setup:

    • Individual box tents for members, plus shared tents for dining, kitchen, toilets, communication, and staff.
    • Tables, chairs, and all necessary cooking gear.
  • πŸ”₯ Heating & Power:

    • Heaters at Base Camp dining and necessary areas, along with solar panels and a generator for battery charging and electronics.
  • πŸ‹οΈ Training:

    • Technical training at Base Camp (oxygen, mask regulator, ice wall, ladder training) by professional guides.
  • πŸ§— High-Altitude Sherpa Support:

    • One government-licensed climbing Sherpa per member (from Base Camp to summit and back) with full support (gear carrying assistance, salary, food, clothing).
  • πŸ›‘ Oxygen Equipment:

    • Summit oxygen: 3 oxygen bottles (4 liters each) per member, plus 1 oxygen bottle per high-altitude Sherpa.
    • One set of oxygen masks & regulators per member and Sherpa (to be returned after the expedition).
    • Backup oxygen cylinder, mask, and regulator (pre-charged).
  • β›Ί High Camp Services:

    • High-altitude tents (shared 2 per tent), essential cooking equipment, high-altitude food, and group climbing gear including fixed and dynamic ropes.
  • πŸ”— Rope Fixing Team:

    • Experienced Sherpas to fix the route on Annapurna I at no extra charge.
  • πŸ“ž Communication:

    • Satellite phone and walkie-talkies for emergency communication (permits included).
  • 🌐 Internet Service:

    • Internet access at Base Camp (subject to a charge).
  • ☁️ Weather Forecast:

    • Regular weather updates from Meteotest, Bern (Switzerland).
  • 🩺 Medical Kit:

    • Comprehensive first aid kit for all members and staff.
  • πŸ† Climbing Certificate:

    • Mt Annapurna I climbing certificate issued by MoCTCA upon successful completion.
Excluded
  • ✈️ International Airfare:

    • All international flights to and from Kathmandu.
  • πŸ›‚ Nepal Visa Fee:

    • Nepal entry visa fees (e.g., USD 125 for a 90-day visa).
  • 🍽️ Meals in Kathmandu:

    • Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu beyond the scheduled itinerary.
  • 🏨 Extra Nights:

    • Additional accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara for early arrivals, late departures, or early return from the expedition.
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Personal Insurance:

    • Travel, high-altitude, accident, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance (mandatory but not included).
  • πŸŽ’ Personal Climbing Gear & Clothing:

    • All personal equipment, specialized technical gear, and clothing items.
  • 🧴 Toiletries:

    • Personal items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and tissue paper.
  • πŸŽ₯ Filming Permits:

    • Special filming, camera, and drone permit fees.
  • 🌐 Internet Service:

    • Internet access during the trek is not provided at Base Camp.
  • πŸ’° Summit Bonus & Tips:

    • Mandatory summit bonus for climbing Sherpas (minimum USD 1,300) and tips for Base Camp staff (minimum USD 600), plus additional tips for porters as advised.
  • πŸ’Έ Other Unspecified Expenses:

    • Any services or items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.

Departure Dates

Sunday Apr 20, 2025
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
PriceUS$ 18,000.00
AvailabilityAvailable

πŸš€Departure Notes

πŸ“…Fixed Departure Dates:
All our expeditions operate on predetermined schedules during the best climbing seasons: normally, Spring is from March to May and Autumn is from September to November. Since this is a very limited trip, one is advised to book early.

πŸ”Ή Customized and Private Options:
We also cater to those who would want more from their experience through a private expedition option, which means it tailors and offers VIP service to any itinerary upon contacting us.

⏰ Last-Minute Bookings:
Although we do take up last-minute bookings, we recommend you give us 3-4 weeks' notice so that we can manage and arrange everything smoothly, from permit to gear and transportation.

🚌 Transport and Transfers:
All ground transfers can be done in either direction, from the airport to the hotel or trek regions, using private transportation. We ensure that your journey from Kathmandu to a remote Base Camp is stress-free and seamless.

πŸ›‘ Safety & Flexibility:

Your safety is our top priority. Our expert team monitors weather conditions closely and includes buffer days in the itinerary to accommodate any delays. Rest assured, emergency rescue protocols and 24/7 support are always in place.

 

We look forward to welcoming you on this epic adventure. Get ready to conquer Mt Annapurna I and create unforgettable memories in the Himalayas!

 

 

 

Additional Information

πŸŽ’ Detailed Packing List – Mt Annapurna I Expedition

πŸ‘• Clothing

Base Layers:

Moisture-wicking t-shirts and long-sleeve tops, thermal underwear.

Mid Layers:

Fleece or lightweight down jacket, insulating pullover.

Outer Layers:

Waterproof and windproof jacket, trekking pants, and convertible options.

Additional Items:

Casual wear for evenings, underwear, light cap, warm beanie, neck gaiter.

πŸ‘Ÿ Footwear
 

Mountaineering Boots:

Insulated boots such as Scarpa Phantom 8000 or equivalent

Trekking Shoes:

Comfortable shoes for lower altitude trekking and Base Camp.

Camp Shoes:

Sandals or lightweight shoes for use inside teahouses.

πŸŽ’ Personal Accessories

Hydration:

Hydration packs or bottles (a minimum of 1–2 liters a day) with purifying tablets.

Sun Protection:

High UV protection sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm.

Daypack:

Small rucksack for daily essentials (e.g. maps, camera, documents).

Travel Essentials:

Passport, permits, insurance details, and a personal journal.

πŸ₯Ύ Trekking & Climbing Gear

Essential Climbing Equipment:

Helmet, mountaineering harness, ice axe, crampons, carabiners, rappel device, jumar.

Technical Accessories:

A jumer, a safety rope, ascenders, and fixed rope accessories that your guide deems necessary.

πŸ“± Electronics

Headlamp or torch, plus spare batteries.

Power:

Portable power bank and solar charger.

Imaging: 

A Camera or Smart Phone, with extra memory cards..

🩹 Health & Hygiene

First Aid: 

First aid kit, blister care, personal medications—such as Diamox, Dexamethasone.

Toiletries:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, roll-on deodorant, personal hygiene items, fast-drying travel towel.

Health Supplies:

Hand sanitizer and other personal health supplies.

πŸ“ Optional Items

Entertainment:

An e-reader, book, or music player.

Snacks:

Energy bars, gels, nuts, and favorite non-perishable snacks.

Extras:

Trekking map or GPS, waterproof bag for electronics, and documents.

Mt. Annapurna I Expedition (Without Domestic & Helicopter Flights) FAQs

  • The finest climbing seasons for Mt. Annapurna are pre-monsoon and post-monsoon, during spring (from March to May) and autumn (from September to November). The weather then remains relatively settled, with clear skies and milder temperatures, thus minimizing risks at high altitudes associated with heavy precipitations and avalanches. Very experienced teams have made a few winter attempts. Still, again, the extreme cold and higher danger of avalanches have made it much less popular among the majority of climbers.

  • This expedition is intended for experienced climbers with prior experience on 6,000m-7,000m peaks and at least one successful ascent of 8,000m. Strong technical skills in ice and rock climbing are essential.

  • In Kathmandu and Pokhara, the team stays in delightful, three-star hotels. Once you are on the mountain, your accommodation will fluctuate from teahouse lodges to fully equipped Base Camp tents in which you ensure at least basic comfort and safety.

  • You will require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, a climbing permit for Annapurna I, and a TIMS card. We arrange these permits; please provide 2 passport-sized photos during registration.

  • Domestic flights between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Dana are included, along with organized road transfers. The helicopter flight to and from Base Camp is provided on a shared basis (private options available upon request).

  • Please refer to our detailed packing list above for high-altitude technical climbing that will cover all essential clothing, gear, and personal items.

  • Himalayan weather is quite unpredictable. Our itineraries are designed with buffer days, and our experienced team members are always facilitated with alternatives to be implemented, (including additional acclimatization) if necessary.

  • Yes, comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses is strongly recommended.

  • Yes, absolutely. We have completely private and custom options for the expedition, designed around your experience and the kind of adventure you want. For a private mountain plan, contact us. 

  • Tipping for Sherpas and porters is mandatory (minimum USD 1,300 for Sherpas and USD 600+ for Base Camp staff). Specific amounts will be communicated during the briefing.