Overview

Mt. Annapurna-I Mountaineering Expedition is one of the most challenging adventures of a lifetime experience. Of all mountaineering climbs, where all adventurers and mountaineers find Mt. Annapurna-I, a very technical hard, and strenuous effort.

Mt. Annapurna-I with its massive range of peaks extends towards the east close to Mt. Manaslu and Mt. Dhaulagiri in the west.

The Mt. Annapurna-I and Mt. Dhaulagiri being close in between Kaligandaki River, forms the world’s deepest gorge of Kaligandaki. Where our adventure leads towards Kaligandaki at Ghasa village the starting point of Mustang district.

Mt. Annapurna-I is listed as the world’s tenth-highest peak at 8,091 m and 26, 545 feet. The first 8,000 meters peaks ever climbed in the history of mountaineering, were in the year 1950. Three years ahead of the Mt. Everest was conquest by the late Tenzing and Hillary, and Mt. Annapurna-I was the first ascent by French Expedition. On June 3rd, 1950 used the same route from the North-West direction. Which is the most accessible way to the summit of Mt. Annapurna-I. Although some mountaineers choose the tough route from Annapurna Sanctuary, it is also a famous and popular trekking destination.

The climb to the summit of Annapurna-I is known to be very challenging and dangerous, than all major peaks. The sudden change of climate is one of the reasons why Annapurna is so dangerous. In most seasons the Annapurna Himalaya remains chilly and covered in deep snow, it gets high-velocity of wind and snowfalls. This is one of the main factors, where most climbers have to succumb the sudden climatic conditions.

Mt. Annapurna-I Mountaineering Expedition is a classic and technically the toughest climb than any other 8000 m mountains in the world.

Where mountaineers have to go through Rock and Ice climbing to reach the summit of towering Mt. Annapurna-I. The Annapurna Himalaya is made by its several adjoining peaks, which makes Annapurna a massif range of mountains.

Besides the main Annapurna-I, it includes Annapurna-II (7,937 m), Annapurna- III (7,855 m), and Annapurna-IV (7,525 m). Includes Annapurna South (7,219 m) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m) with a range of other lesser peaks. Mt. Machhapuchare (6,993 m). The famous Fish Tail peak dominates the southern hills of the Annapurna Himalayas.

The adventure to Mt. Annapurna-I starts and ends at beautiful Pokhara, a city blessed with natural beauty. Enclosed by green hills and peaks of Annapurna Himalaya that reflect on its serene lakes.

From Pokhara an interesting drive to the start of a trekking adventure to
Mt. Annapurna-I, North-West Base Camp. Having time at base camp for acclimatization and full preparation, then setting higher camps, requires a maximum of four camps. A time period of twenty days for the final summit bid, allowing climbers to exercise and practice climb.

Within 20 days, the adventure leads to climbing and descending to base camp, before the big day to the summit. Choosing and planning the right day, then proceeding towards higher from one camp to another. Staying at Camp IV which is above 7,400 m / 24, 278 feet high, then head for the summit.

A vertical incline of 691 meters climbs to reach the top of Mt. Annapurna-I, enjoy the spectacular dramatic views. After a gruesome and strenuous climb to the summit, one can feel on top of the world. A safe descent takes you to base camp, and then a return journey to Pokhara. Where our classic and mesmerizing adrenaline adventure Mt. Annapurna-I Mountaineering Expedition concludes, before heading back to Kathmandu.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu received by our staff and transfer to hotels.

Day 02-03: Two full day’s preparation for Mt. Annapurna Expedition.

Day 04: Drive to Pokhara 860 m and transfer to hotel. -06 hrs.

Day 05: Drive to Ghasa village 2,000 m / 6,561 feet-05 hrs.

Day 06: At Ghasa village rest, explore and preparation.

Day 07: Trek to Kharka / Jungle Camp 2,900 m / 9,515 feet -06 hours.

Day 08: Trek to Miristi Khola / Stream 4,260 m / 13, 976 feet -06 hrs.

Day 09: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp 4,200 m / 13, 780 feet -05 hrs.

Day 10-11: At Base Camp preparation for the climb.

Day 12-31: Reserved 20 days for the climb, preparation, acclimatization.

Day 32: All members and staff should be at base camp.

Day 33: Cleaning and packing day at base camp.

Day 34: Miristi Khola – 05 hrs.

Day 35: Trek to Kharka/ Jungle Camp-05 hrs.

Day 36: Trek to Ghasa village -05 hrs.

Day 37: Drive back to Pokhara-05 hrs.

Day 38:          Drive to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel -06 hrs.
Day 39-40:    In Kathmandu rest and to submit report to concern department.
Day 41:          International departures for homeward bound.

Trip Highlights

“A classic mountain and the first 8,000 m peaks ever climbed in early 1950. An exhilarating climb on top of world’s 10th highest peaks Mt. Annapurna-I. Adventurous walks far from mainstream trekking trails around hidden areas. Exceptional views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiris with massif Annapurna Himalayas. Conquer the summit on one of the most technical mountain on top Annapurna-I.”

Day 1 :

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

On arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, Brown Bear Trail guide and staff receives you with warm welcome. A short transfer to your hotels in the heart of Kathmandu city. After checking into your rooms, getting refreshed our guide briefs with information regarding Mt. Annapurna-I Expeditions.
Includes information on hotels, lodge while trekking and climb with do and don’ts with welcome dinner.

Day 2 :

Day 02-03: In Kathmandu preparation for Annapurna Expeditions.

We have reserved two free days in Kathmandu to relieve you from jetlag with long flights, on this day options for sightseeing tour around world heritage sites within Kathmandu visiting Old Durbar (palace) Square, and ancient stupa of Swayambhunath, after a tour head back to hotel with preparations for
Mt. Annapurna Expedition.
Second day in Kathmandu optional tour and expeditions preparations and group briefing from our lead guide and team leader, on this day completing all formal documentations for the climb of Mt. Annapurna-I and packing.

Day 3 :

Day 04: Drive to Pokhara 860 m and transfer to hotel -06 hrs.

Start the adventure for the climb of Annapurna-I, taking an exciting drive on a big
Bus with all crews and members. The drive leads beyond Kathmandu valley to low
warm farm areas, past town and villages. Following the popular rafting river of
Trisuli, and then heading west with views of Manaslu and Annapurna Himalayas.
As drive enters the beautiful city in Pokhara to reach the Phewa Lake side, where
all best hotels located. At Pokhara after checking into a lovely rooms, having time
for stroll around the lakeside.

Day 4 :

Day 05: Drive to Ghasa village 2,000 m / 6,561 feet-05 hrs.

Morning after a pleasant stay in Pokhara, morning drive heads beyond Pokhara
City. Along the drive enjoy the beautiful scenery of Annapurna Himalayan range,
the road follows west with ups and down. Then reaching a big town of Baglung
and Beni, headquarters of Mygdi district. Leaving the town on rough dirt road
following the Kaligandaki River upstream to Tatopani village with natural hot-
spring. From Tatopani on hilly road to Dana and then reaching a lovely village at
Ghasa, the entrance of Mustang district. A nice place with cooler air amidst lovely
forest surrounding, check into a nice lodge for overnight stop.

Day 5 :

Day 06: At Ghasa village rest, explore and preparation.

Enjoy a free day at Ghasa village, a lovely place to enjoy rest to explore local
Culture. As well hike for few hours around this beautiful location before heading
towards our destinations into wilderness.

Day 6 :

Day 07: Trek to Kharka / Jungle Camp 2,900 m / 9,515 feet -06 hours.

Morning a slow gradual climb into forested trail lined with rhododendron and
pine trees. Facing outstanding scenery of Nilgiris, Dhaulagiri Himal with
Annapurna-I and Annapurna Fang / Vara Shikar peaks.

The walk reaches lower settlement of Lete near a suspension bridge to cross and
then from a small hut. Our route heads North East away from main trails and
villages into complete wilderness. Walk through dense woodland crossing several
tributary icy streams of Kaligandaki River, then reaching a wide meadow to set
our first tented camp. Rest of the day relax and marvel the views of surrounding
snow-capped peaks.

Day 7 :

Day 08: Trek to Miristi Khola / Stream 4,260 m / 13, 976 feet -06 hrs.

From this lovely spot amidst forest surroundings with grand views of snow
peaks, walk leads closer towards our destination. The trail is quite narrow and
tricky above the raging Kaligandaki River, heeding slowly with down and steep
ups. After a steady climb along with beautiful views of surrounding peaks and
rolling green hills. Then reaching a cold icy stream at Miristi Khola where our
camp is pitched before Annapurna-I base camp.

Day 8 :

Day 09: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp 4,200 m / 13, 780 feet -05 hrs.

The route to Annapurna North-West Base Camp is walk on narrow path with big drop down to Kaligandaki River. In snow condition can be quite treacherous, where all should be careful with every steps. After hours of walks on winding ups then a short descent leads to gully enclosed by rocky walls.
Where Annapurna Base Camp is located amidst moraine dunes, ice snow and glaciers nearby. Our camp is set on the best available flat ground right beneath towering South-West Face of Annapurna-I.

Day 9 :

Day 10-11: At Base Camp preparation for the climb.

Two full days at base camp for preparation and checking all the climbing gears,
and packing to ferry loads. From the base camp four more high camps required
before the summit of Mt. Annapurna-I. During these two days getting engrossed
with practice climb and planning the route to further camps.

Day 10 :

Day 12-31: Reserved 20 days for the climb, preparation, acclimatization.

Brown Bear Trails have reserved 20 days for the climb to the summit and
descend to base camp. During these 20 days having ample time to ferry loads to
higher camps, carrying tents, foods. Including extra climbing gears.

Where our expert guides will make all the arrangement carrying ladders, and
fixing ropes, snow bars required on technical sections. After setting and storing
foods in all camps, and making safe routes for the main summit day.

After a good rest and getting well acclimatized staying long for more than week
duration, moving up and down. The Big Day will be made by the group leader or
by the head guide, then heading for the strenuous climb.

Moving first to Camp-I at (5,150 m /1 6,896 feet), and then to Camp-II at (5,700 m /18,700 feet). Which can few days climb from the base camp, a tough steep technical section to tackle. Most of the climb is on hard snow, ice and rocks to reach Camp-III (6,500 m /21,325 feet). Having rest arriving on good time of few
hours of arduous climb, then spend overnight at Camp-IV (7,400 m /24,278 feet).
The last camp before the summit of Mt. Annapurna-I (8,091 m /26,545 feet), next early morning after mid-night. When early dark morning is quiet with less wind chill factor, head for the summit bid, before the sunrise. The last push takes you to a steep up of 91 meters distance to the top of Mt. Annapurna-I.
Climbing with great hard effort reaching the summit before the sunrise, enjoy the still morning. Overlooking as far towards Dhaulagiri, Nilgiris with peaks of Annapurna Sanctuary in the east direction. Enjoying the early morning views head for a long descent to Camp-III or to Camp-II. Then slowly reach the base camp after few days on reaching the summit of Mt. Annapurna-I.

Day 11 :

Day 32: All members and staff should be at base camp.

On this day where all members and staff should be at base camp, carrying all the
gear from the high camps. After a good rest at Base Camp, packing and checking
the equipment for return journey. All climbers and staff, should be at base camp
on this day for final group gathering.

Day 12 :

Day 33: Cleaning and packing day at base camp.

Before leaving the camp leave nothing, only your footsteps packing and carrying all garbage also. As well checking the staff and members health condition before getting ready for return journey.

Day 13 :

Day 34: Miristi Khola - 05 hrs.

Retrace the journey back to Miristi Khola for overnight camp close within tree
lines and green meadows.

Day 14 :

Day 35: Trek to Kharka/ Jungle Camp-05 hrs.

Enjoy the walk towards Ghasa village, but spending the last overnight in tented
Camp at Kharka or Jungle Camp.

Day 15 :

Day 36: Trek to Ghasa village -05 hrs.

The last day walk of the adventure, a lovely pleasant walk back to Lete to cross a
bridge. Facing close grand views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and the Ice-Fall, as walk follows
downhill to nice village at Ghasa in the comfort of cozy lodge.

Day 16 :

Day 37: Drive back to Pokhara-05 hrs.

From Ghasa, taking a drive back to Pokhara an interesting journey to Tatopani
Village, following the Kaligandaki River on dirt road to Beni Town.
After a refreshing stop, continue drive on main good highway to reach Pokhara,
an exciting scenic drive. After a pleasant ride through number of farm villages and
towns, then ending the drive on reaching beautiful Pokhara.

Enjoy the last final overnight in Pokhara by the calm Phewa Lake with grand views
of Annapurna Himalayas

Day 17 :

Day 38: Drive to Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel -06 hrs.

After a wonderful time in Pokhara, depart for Kathmandu where morning drive heads towards Trisuli River reaching Malekhu town, from here on few hours drives on winding road to Kathmandu. On reaching at Kathmandu transfer to your hotels, afternoon free for individual activities.

Day 18 :

Day 39-40: In Kathmandu rest and to submit report to concern department.

Two free days in Kathmandu, to relax your muscles with options for sightseeing tour of Kathmandu-Patan and Bhaktapur. On next day completing the successful climb on Mt. Annapurna-I Mountaineering Expeditions, leader and guide will hand the expedition reports to concern Nepal Government Tourism department, evening enjoy the farewell group dinner.

Day 19 :

Day 41: International departures for homeward bound.

Last day in the country full of amazing adventures with high Himalayan peaks, after a wonderful experience; with fond memories of Mt. Annapurna-I Mountaineering Expeditions and the Himalayas. Our staff transfer you from the hotel to airport as per your international flight time for your final departure homeward bound or to respective destination.

Cost Includes

Cost includes

01: All Arrival and Departure Transfer from the airport to the hotel
and vice-versa.
02: Twin sharing rooms at Tourist Standard Hotel or 2-3 stars Hotel in
Kathmandu and Pokhara on Bed / Breakfast basis. (Includes welcome and
farewell dinner).
03: On best transportation to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu as per size of a
group. Includes best vehicles during the whole trip before and after the
trek from Pokhara to Pokhara.
04: Lodge accommodation and dinner en-route Ghasa village and vice-versa.
05: Full board on lodge basis till Ghasa includes B-L-D with twin sharing room
basis.
06: Applicable Climbing and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project)
permits and Garbage deposit fees.
07: Wages, transportation allowance and insurance of trekking and camping
staff, as well porters.
08: High altitude guide, staff and potters, special wages and equipment
and special allowance.
09: Climbing guide insurance climbing allowance with peak bonus including
climbing equipment.
10: Medical Kits and ropes and oxygen for staff and guides only.

Cost excludes

01: Personal Medical / Travel Insurance.
02: Single room supplement in Kathmandu / Pokhara Hotel and on trekking in
local lodges at extra cost, including in tented camping.
03: In Kathmandu and Pokhara on bed and breakfast only basis no lunch or
dinner except on welcome and farewell.
04: Personal expenses laundry, tipping, soft / hard drinks and extra meals on
treks.
05: Emergency evacuation by any means of transportation or using helicopter
service.
06: Camping Services including tents and foods above Base Camp on own
arrangement.
07: Early return from expedition due to personal reason or problem as well
being sick etc. The money will be refunded by the company all expenses to
borne by oneself.
08: Personal oxygen and medical kit on climb and royalty fees of
Mt. Annapurna-I climb.
09: Personal trekking and climbing gear including sleeping bags, down
jackets.
10: Tipping of trekking / camping staff, cook, kitchen staff, and porters and of
climbing guides.

FAQ’S (Frequently Asked Questions):

Expand all

01: How difficult and tough is climb to Mt. Annapurna summit?

One of shortest expeditions compared to other 8,000 meters peaks, but one of the toughest and most technical mountain to climb. Both side of Annapurna-I is hard and difficult, from the South East around popular Annapurna Sanctuary.
The mountain is a sheer huge wall of rocks, snow and ice, very few expedition dares from the South East route. Where’s from South West is possible to climb but great danger of sudden avalanches. Which makes the climb to Mt. Annapurna quite dangerous mountain to climb, but it is possible to reach the summit.

02: How are the foods on trekking?

All meals served with care and hygiene in every lodge on route trekking, where our guides all makes sure that the meal is all right for you, meals served as per the menu provided by the lodge.
Main meals Nepali Dal / Bhat (boiled rice-mild vegetable curry with Dal and pickles of your choice) vegetable serves depends upon season, meals includes fried / boiled noodles with eggs / veg or plain of your choices. Continental dishes also available in most of the lodges on treks.
Besides having meals on lodge enroute, more or less the food will be prepared by our camping cook and kitchen staff. Where one can enjoy delicious meals every day and night prepared by our expert cook. From Continental, Indian, Chinese, Nepali and many varieties, including bakeries products.

03: Are there any health care or hospital on route?

The only hospital is in Pokhara (the start and ending point of the trek) rest of the bigger villages and town have small health post. But it lacks experienced doctors or medical staff. On trek Brown Bear Trail guide will carry comprehensive medical box with medications for general illness and wounds only.

04: How about safe drinking water?

At every lodge that you stay overnights, our guide and lodge owner will refill your water bottles with hot boiled (or cooled) water, which is safe for drinking purpose, some areas on Annapurna areas. Buying bottled water can be quite expensive on mountains area it will be a hazard with waste empty water bottles. As Brown Bear Trails are committed to Eco and Responsible Tourism, our guide will discourage buying plastic water bottles, only in emergency situations.
Purifying tablets does work only 30-40 % in Himalayan waters (due to heavy minerals contain like magnesium-iron and bi-carbonates), the only safe is way boiled cooled water. But on camping our staff serves you with boiled and filtered water to refill the bottle, as well for safe drinking.

05: Does all cell / mobile phones works on trekking?

Depending upon the areas if you are in deep gorge and valley chances of communication on cell / mobile phone is less, but in high ridge and hills most of the mobile do receives signals.
Most local areas where cell-phone works mostly in towns and villages, most lodge and shops / stores on trekking have STD / ISTD phones which can cost much higher due to its remoteness. But in deep gorges and hidden valleys the net is disturb sometimes.

06: What do I expect on this expedition?

It is one of the most impressive trekking in whole Himalaya areas. Where trekkers can experience varied climate-vegetation-landscapes to local culture in each villages. From low paddy fields to cooler hills then reaching at arctic zone ice and glaciers. Observe the cultures of Hindu and Buddhism on trekking into villages, but more or less this expedition, where walk leads to far from villages and towns.
Staying in complete sheer Mountain Wilderness for a month till the expedition is over.

07: How much money to carry on the treks?

Depending upon your choices of extra expenses on refreshments drinks / snacks on routes as well buying local souvenirs, for hard drinks and beers can be expensive on higher altitude villages than on lower areas, (try to avoid hard drinks and beer on route higher altitude for safe trekking it can cause de-hydrations and make problem with altitude sickness.
On the way back downhill one can enjoy drinking in the end of the treks, average of NRS 300-400 per day (just in case you need to spend for your own personal use), otherwise all meals and accommodation will be included on package.
Tipping and gratitude after the treks at your own will (however a long history and traditions in trekking / climbing or in tour where staff-guides-porters will expect tipping from the services provided).

08: What happens if someone gets sick on treks?

For minor sickness staying for few days at the same lodges, accompanied by friends or our trekking staff. Till the main group returns from Annapurna Base Camp and continue walk to the end at Pokhara. For serious illness has to be brought down to safe areas or reaching Pokhara for medical help.
In critical case, using the service of a Helicopter for safest rescue to bring the patient to Pokhara or in Kathmandu for medical treatment. Where one can claim through your medical Insurance back home.

MT. ANNAPURNA-I MOUNTAINEERING EXPEDITION

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQ