The Annapurna Loop (Ghorepani and Poon Hill) Trek starts and ends in Pokhara; a colourful foray into the Annapurna region. The trail winds through patchwork valleys, dense mossy forests and past icy waterfalls where you can stop to cool your face.
Immerse yourself in the mystery and rich historical heritage, exquisite temples and religious sites of Kathmandu as you enjoy a guided tour of the city.
Your trek is a colourful foray into the Annapurna region. The trail winds through patchwork valleys, dense mossy forests and past icy waterfalls. Around every corner is a tantalising glimpse of the high mountains, whole horizons of which are revealed as you reach the high points of your trek.
After indulging in the beauty of the Annapurna region you travel to the city of lakes, Pokhara. From here you continue on to the Gorkha District, where you will experience village life and work as part of the community.
This is a wonderful opportunity to exchange ideas about modern technology and education, and learn about the lifestyle of local people. You will visit a Shaman, learning about typical rituals of worshipping believed to cure diseases.
This is a fabulous opportunity to see a country which is stunningly beautiful and culturally fascinating. Even more special are the people you will meet who are gentle and welcoming – and though we will endeavour to contribute to their lives, it is very likely that they will be able to teach us more than we teach them.
Kathmandu
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Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Transfer by private tourist vehicle to hotel.
Sightseeing trip in private vehicle with professional tour guide:
Pashupatinath Temple – one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River.
Boudhanath Stupa – one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Kathmandu.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square – Royal Residential Quarter of Bhupatindra Malla, famous five-storied temple of Nyatapola in Pagoda style Batsala temple, Bhairavnath temple, Duttatraya temple, Pujari Muth and Palace of 55 windows.
Start approx 7:30 am for full day drive to Pokhara, a beautiful village, much smaller than Kathmandu, set on banks of Phewa Lake. Pokhara has panoramic views of Annapurna and Machapuchare (shape of fish tail) in the north, Dhaulagiri in the west and Lamjung Himal and Manaslu in the east.
Transfer by road 1 hour to Nayapul and commence trek. Short 15-minute walk along banks of Modi Khola, to Birethanti (1,015 m), a large village with many shops and teahouses. Continue along trail through village, following north bank of Bhurungdi Khola. Climb steadily to Hille at 1,495 m and Tikhedhunga at 1,570 m.
A steep climb to Ulleri, a large Magar village altitude 2,070 m. Trail ascends more gently through fine forests of oak and rhododendrons, towards Banthanti 2,250 m. Continue towards Nangethanti 2,460 m. After an hour walk arrive at Ghorepani (2,840 m).
An early start climbing Poon Hill elevation 3,210 m for sunrise. The vantage point provides a brilliant mountain range spectacle with unobstructed views over the high Himalayas. Return to Ghorepani, enjoy a hot breakfast before climbing along ridges through pine and rhododendron forests towards Deurali (2,960 m). Descend to Banthanti, turn off to Tadapani.
Descend through forests to Ghandruk, a village of Gurung people with their own dialect, culture, costume, and lifestyle. Also home to many Gurkha soldiers, this is a famous destination for trekkers, known for beautiful mountain views and being within easy reach of Pokhara and Kathmandu. We have the afternoon to visit Annapurna Conservation Office and museums and explore the village.
Complete our trek at Nayapul followed by a short drive back to Pokhara. After reaching Pokhara, we will have a relaxing afternoon, perhaps taking a stroll around the lake side.
A full day drive to Dharapani. Arrive in Arughat Bazar and commence 2 hour trek climbing stairs at top of Arughat Bazar then crossing bridge of Stull Khola (river). First stop is Dharapani Secondary School at Dharapani village. Continue another 40 minutes to Ratmate where Bhairabi is located.
Morning welcome program with students, teachers and locals. As a sign of honour, tika (red power) will be put on our foreheads along with garland or Khada over our necks.
Main focus is teaching students of Bhairabi Primary School. Either work alongside the school teachers or take classes, including maths, science, English, social studies, etc depending upon your interest and knowledge. Outdoor games (during the break times) are also popular with students.
There are also rebuilding works required –simple and easy things like painting the school walls and so on. We will have opportunities to observe village lifestyle, take part in their activities such as farming and swimming.
Bid a sad farewell to our new friends and trek to Arughat Bazaar and our bus. A 5 hour transfer with many stunning views enroute. Tonight final farewell dinner in traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances.
A final opportunity to shop or sightsee in Kathmandu, before transferring to the airport for our onward journey from Nepal.
