Annapurna Foothills Trek Nepal

Arrival in Kathmandu – Airport Pickup & Hotel Transfer

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner, Jagdamba Holidays. Our representative will be waiting with an official Monkvana sign and a traditional marigold garland to welcome you to Nepal.

You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. For late-night arrivals, transportation will be arranged according to your arrival time.

Your representative will also provide information about the tour briefing and group meeting. During the briefing, we will review your travel plans and included services and introduce you to your trekking or tour guide.

Before the journey begins, all participants will complete the required travel and liability forms. Any outstanding tour balance should also be settled during the meeting.

Kathmandu Heritage & Sacred Sites Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley at around 9:00 AM. Travel by private vehicle with your knowledgeable guide and discover some of the valley’s most important cultural and religious landmarks.

Begin with Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a historic medieval city renowned for its well-preserved Newari architecture, ancient temples, royal courtyards, and intricate wood and stone carvings. Explore highlights such as the 55-Window Palace, Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, and Pottery Square while learning about the city’s rich history and traditional culture.

Continue to Boudhanath Stupa, one of Nepal’s largest Buddhist stupas and an important center of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Walk around the impressive stupa, observe devotees performing ritual prayers, and explore the surrounding monasteries, prayer wheels, and traditional shops.

Continue your sightseeing at Pashupatinath Temple, one of Nepal’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, situated along the banks of the Bagmati River. Explore the surrounding temple complex and learn about Hindu traditions, religious rituals, and the spiritual importance of this ancient site.

After completing the sightseeing tour, return to your hotel with a deeper appreciation of Kathmandu Valley’s diverse cultural heritage, where ancient Newari traditions, Buddhist practices, and Hindu spirituality come together. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Kande & Trek to Pitam Deurali

After breakfast, drive to the airport for your 25-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s charming lakeside cities at 822 m / 2,697 ft. For the best Himalayan views, request a right-side window seat. On a clear day, enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna range, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) as you fly west toward Pokhara.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, meet your driver and proceed to Kande (1,770 m / 5,807 ft) by private vehicle. The drive covers approximately 30 km and takes around 1 hour, depending on road and traffic conditions.

Begin your trek from Kande to Pitam Deurali via Australian Camp (2,060 m / 6,759 ft). The trail gradually climbs through terraced farmland, traditional mountain villages, and peaceful forests, offering a scenic introduction to the Annapurna foothills. After reaching Australian Camp, continue along the natural mountain trail toward Pitam Deurali (2,130 m / 6,988 ft), enjoying beautiful views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) along the route.

The trek covers approximately 6 km and takes around 4–5 hours, with an elevation gain of about 520 m / 1,706 ft and a small elevation loss of around 130 m / 427 ft due to natural trail variations. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival at Pitam Deurali, check in at New Laligurans Guest House or a similar standard lodge in Pitam Deurali. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to rest and enjoy the spectacular mountain surroundings.

Trek through Rhododendron Forests to Forest Camp

After breakfast at Pitam Deurali (2,130 m / 6,988 ft), begin your trek toward Forest Camp (2,600 m / 8,530 ft). The trail gradually ascends deeper into the peaceful forests of the Annapurna foothills, passing through beautiful oak, maple, and rhododendron forests. Enjoy the fresh mountain air, tranquil woodland paths, and occasional glimpses of distant Himalayan peaks as the landscape changes along the route.

The trek covers approximately 8 km and takes around 4–5 hours, with an elevation gain of approximately 540 m / 1,772 ft and a small elevation loss of around 230 m / 755 ft due to the natural ups and downs of the forest trail. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival at Forest Camp (2,600 m / 8,530 ft), check in at Hotel Forest Camp or a similar standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful forest surroundings.

Trek Above the Tree Line to Mardi Himal High Camp

After breakfast at Forest Camp (2,600 m / 8,530 ft), begin your trek toward Mardi Himal High Camp (3,580 m / 11,745 ft). Today is one of the most spectacular sections of the Mardi Himal Trek, as the trail gradually leaves the forest behind and climbs into the open alpine landscape. The route passes through Low Camp and Middle Camp, with increasingly impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

The trek covers approximately 8 km and takes around 6–7 hours, with the biggest elevation gain of about 1,110 m / 3,642 ft and a small elevation loss of around 40 m / 131 ft due to natural trail variations. As you climb higher, the landscape becomes more rugged and dramatic, offering a truly rewarding Himalayan trekking experience. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival at Mardi Himal High Camp (3,580 m / 11,745 ft), check in at Heaven View Guest House or a similar standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to relax, enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery, and prepare for the next morning’s sunrise adventure.

Sunrise at Mardi Himal Viewpoint & Descent to Low Camp

Wake early and trek toward Mardi Himal View Point (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) to witness a spectacular Himalayan sunrise. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) in golden hues, enjoy a peaceful and unforgettable mountain experience. After taking in the panoramic scenery, begin your descent toward Low Camp (2,970 m / 9,744 ft) through alpine landscapes and forested trails.

The trek covers approximately 14.2 km, including Mardi Himal View Point (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) and Lower View Point, and takes around 7–8 hours of walking. Today’s route includes an elevation loss of approximately 1,260 m / 4,134 ft, with around 730 m / 2,395 ft of elevation gain on short uphill sections along the way. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival at Low Camp (2,970 m / 9,744 ft), check in at Hotel Moonlight or a similar standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the beautiful forest and mountain surroundings.

Trek from Low Camp to Landruk via Forest Camp

After breakfast at Low Camp (2,970 m / 9,744 ft), retrace the trail through the peaceful forest toward Forest Camp (2,600 m / 8,530 ft). From Forest Camp, take the right-hand trail toward Landruk, following a scenic downhill route through dense forests, hillside trails, and rural landscapes. As you descend, enjoy changing scenery of lush valleys, terraced farmland, and traditional Gurung settlements.

The trek covers approximately 7.71 km and takes around 4–5 hours of walking. The route includes approximately 40 m / 131 ft of elevation gain and 1,445 m / 4,741 ft of elevation loss. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival in Landruk (1,565 m / 5,135 ft), check in at Hotel Himalayan Front or a similar standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to relax, explore the traditional Gurung village, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Trek from Landruk to Ghandruk – Gateway to Annapurna Base Camp

After breakfast in Landruk (1,565 m / 5,135 ft), begin your trek toward Ghandruk (1,940 m / 6,365 ft), a beautiful and culturally rich Gurung village in the Annapurna region. The trail climbs through lush forests, terraced farmland, and traditional mountain landscapes, offering scenic views of the surrounding valleys and Himalayan peaks. Ghandruk is widely known as an important gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, making today a rewarding section of your Annapurna adventure.

The trek covers approximately 4 km and takes around 3–4 hours of walking. The route includes approximately 730 m / 2,395 ft of elevation gain and around 210 m / 689 ft of elevation loss due to the natural ups and downs of the trail. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival in Ghandruk (1,940 m / 6,365 ft), check in at Ghandruk Guest House or a similar standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to relax, explore the charming Gurung village, and enjoy the spectacular Himalayan surroundings.

Explore Ghandruk and Trek to Tadapani

After breakfast, take some time to explore Ghandruk (1,940 m / 6,365 ft), one of the most picturesque traditional Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. Wander through its stone-paved lanes, admire traditional houses, and experience the unique Gurung culture, local mountain lifestyle, and peaceful village atmosphere. After exploring Ghandruk, begin your trek toward Tadapani (2,630 m / 8,628 ft), following a scenic trail through lush forests and beautiful mountain landscapes. The route gradually climbs through rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, with occasional openings offering views of the surrounding valleys and Himalayan peaks.

The trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani covers approximately 6 km and takes around 3–4 hours of walking. The route includes approximately 620 m / 2,034 ft of elevation gain and no significant elevation loss, making this a moderate day of trekking. Enjoy the peaceful forest environment, fresh mountain air, and changing scenery as you make your way deeper into the Annapurna landscape. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival in Tadapani (2,630 m / 8,628 ft), check in at Fishtail View Top Lodge or a similar standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, with an opportunity to take in the spectacular Himalayan views from Tadapani.

Trek from Tadapani to Ghorepani – Gateway to Poon Hill

After breakfast at Tadapani (2,630 m / 8,628 ft), begin your trek toward Ghorepani (2,874 m / 9,429 ft), following a scenic trail through the beautiful forests of the Annapurna region. The route winds through dense rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, with peaceful woodland paths, scenic viewpoints, and occasional glimpses of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. As you approach Ghorepani, enjoy the changing mountain scenery, lush landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere along this scenic section of the Annapurna trekking route.

The trek covers approximately 8.65 km and takes around 5–6 hours of walking. The route includes approximately 730 m / 2,395 ft of elevation gain and around 530 m / 1,739 ft of elevation loss due to the natural ups and downs of the trail. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite. The combination of ascents and descents makes today a rewarding moderate day of trekking.

Upon arrival in Ghorepani (2,874 m / 9,429 ft), check in at Hotel Snow Land or a similar standard lodge. Accommodation is provided in twin-, triple-, or quad-sharing rooms, subject to availability, with shared bathroom facilities, with breakfast and dinner included. The remainder of the day is free to relax, explore the vibrant mountain village, and enjoy the surrounding Himalayan scenery in preparation for the next morning’s Poon Hill sunrise experience.

Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210 m) & Trek to Hile & Drive to Pokhara

Wake early and hike from Ghorepani (2,874 m / 9,429 ft) to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft) to enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. From the viewpoint, you can see Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and other surrounding peaks. After enjoying the sunrise and mountain views, return to your lodge in Ghorepani for breakfast.

After breakfast, continue the trek from Ghorepani to Hile (1,430 m / 4,691 ft). The trail descends through rhododendron forests and traditional mountain villages, passing through Ulleri before continuing towards Hile. The route gradually moves from the higher mountain landscape into the greener foothills of the Annapurna region.

The trek covers approximately 13 km and takes around 6–7 hours of walking, including the morning hike to Poon Hill and the return to Ghorepani. The route includes approximately 270 m / 886 ft of elevation gain and 1,690 m / 5,545 ft of elevation loss. Lunch will be arranged by your guide at a suitable teahouse along the trail, according to your needs and appetite.

Upon arrival in Hile, meet your private vehicle and drive to Pokhara, covering approximately 50 km in around 2.5 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. Enjoy the scenic drive through the lower Himalayan foothills, passing rural settlements, terraced hillsides, and mountain landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival in Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft), check in at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn or a similar standard hotel. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with a private bathroom, with breakfast included. The remainder of the day is free to rest and enjoy the Lakeside area of Pokhara after completing your Annapurna trekking adventure.

Pokhara Leisure Day & Optional Activities

Enjoy a relaxed day in Pokhara (822 m / 2,697 ft) after completing your Annapurna trekking adventure. Take time to rest at your hotel, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Phewa Lake, or explore the lively Lakeside area at your own pace.

For those interested in exploring more of Pokhara, optional activities such as a boat ride on Phewa Lake, a visit to the World Peace Pagoda, Pumdikot, Devi’s Falls, or Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave can be arranged by our local partner at short notice and at an additional cost, subject to availability.

Stay overnight at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn or a similar standard hotel. Accommodation is provided on a twin-sharing basis with a private bathroom, with breakfast included. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy Pokhara at your own pace.

Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus – Optional Flight

After breakfast in Pokhara, depart for Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) by deluxe tourist bus, which leaves Pokhara at around 7:00 AM. The approximately 200-kilometre journey takes around 6–7 hours, travelling through the scenic landscapes of central Nepal. The route passes through terraced hills, river valleys, traditional villages, and rural settlements, with much of the journey following the Trishuli River. Enjoy the changing scenery and views of Nepal’s countryside as you travel towards the capital. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

If you prefer to travel more quickly, an optional domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is available at an additional cost of USD 165 per person, including private airport transfers in both Pokhara and Kathmandu. The flight considerably reduces the travel time and provides aerial views of the surrounding hills and river valleys, offering a convenient alternative to the road journey.

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft) marks the final stage of the Annapurna Circuit (Thorong La Pass) Trek, also known in Europe as the Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek or Kleine Annapurna Runde in German. Check in at Hotel Kailash Kutee or a hotel of similar standard, then enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, either relaxing at the hotel or exploring the nearby areas.

Farewell – Airport Transfer & Departure

As your Himalayan journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on Nepal’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences—from majestic mountain landscapes to the warm hospitality of local communities.

For a smooth departure, a representative of Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o., operating through its local partner Jagdamba Holidays, will meet you at your hotel approximately 3.5 hours before your scheduled flight and provide a comfortable transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Thank you for choosing Monkvana | Himalayan Monks Sp. z o.o. and Jagdamba Holidays. We look forward to welcoming you again on future journeys across the Himalayas and beyond.