Lower Annapurna Trek – 9 Days

The second day of your Lower Annapurna Trek will be spent sightseeing around Kathmandu. Generally, sightseeing involves a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which include Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as Monkey Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, among others. These sites give an idea of Nepal’s religious heritage, history, and way of life.

In between sightseeing, there is an opportunity to pick up any missing trek gear. If something is missing, it can be purchased in Thamel, the main tourist area of Kathmandu. Trek permits and final formalities are also completed on this day. This balance of cultural exploration and preparation helps travelers feel organized and ready to go before heading into the mountains.

Travelers on Day 3 will be traveling to Pokhara, the entrance to the Annapurna region. This can be done either by a scenic drive which takes about six or seven hours, or a short domestic flight which takes about 25 minutes.

The drive passes through rivers, hills, and villages, giving one an idea of the Nepalese countryside. Taking a flight saves time and on clear days, one gets a glimpse of the Himalayas.

Pokhara is situated at an altitude of 822 meters. It is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and lakes. Upon arrival, tourists check into a hotel in the vicinity of Phewa Lake and have a relaxing evening. Some prefer to walk along the lakeside or enjoy the reflection of Machhapuchhre on the lake.

After having breakfast, the day begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, which takes about an hour and a half. The route from Nayapul leads to a gentle climb through some villages and agricultural land.

The trekking distance from Nayapul to Ghandruk is about four to five hours of steady walking. On the way, you will find suspension bridges, stone steps, and streams. Ghandruk is a large Gurung village famous for its traditional stone houses and the friendly welcome of its inhabitants.

Ghandruk, which is located at an altitude of 1,940 meters, offers breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Lodging is at a teahouse owned by the locals.

The Ghandruk to Tolka trek begins after breakfast at the mountain view site. The trek goes through the forest, then begins a gradual ascent through small settlements and agricultural fields.

This trekking section takes about five or six hours. This route is peaceful and less crowded, giving trekkers a chance to enjoy the sounds of nature and village life. Along the way, there are many viewpoints with views into the Annapurna range.

Tolka is a quiet village situated at around 1,700 meters. The evening is peaceful and relaxed. It’s a good time to relax after a day of walking. The group will spend the night at a teahouse which provides essential services to its guests.

Day 6 is a relatively short and scenic trekking day. The trek route from Tolka to Australian Camp goes through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, especially in the spring season.

The trekking route is expected to take about three to four hours, with a gradual ascent. Australian Camp is located at an altitude of 2,060 meters and is known for its spectacular views of sunrise and sunset. On clear days, one can even spot Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, and Machhapuchre stretching as far as the eye can see.

The area around Australian Camp has well-maintained lodges with open views, and it is one of the highlights of the trek.

Early risers will be rewarded with views of the sun rising over the mountains before starting the descent. The route begins its descent to Kande or Phedi through forests and villages on the hillside.

After arriving at the main road, the journey continues back to Pokhara. This will take about an hour. The afternoon is free to relax, enjoy the cafes on the lakeside, or take a short boat ride on Phewa Lake.

The return to Pokhara from the trail brings a double benefit because the city provides both comfort and opportunities to think about your trekking experiences.

The travelers who already visited Kathmandu on their first journey now return to the city through either bus or flight on their eighth day of travel. The visitors to the city receive free time after their arrival for final shopping and souvenir collection and visiting their preferred locations.

In the evening, some trekkers may choose to have a farewell dinner, celebrating the successful completion of the trek.

This is the last day of the trek, and it is time to leave Nepal. Trekkers will be dropped off at the airport according to their flight schedule. The Lower Annapurna Trek is a memorable experience, even though it is a short one, due to the views of the mountains and villages, and the hospitality of the people.