The Annapurna circuit considered one of the best treks in the world is a 12 to 15 day hike through the Himalayas in Nepal surrounded with countless rivers, flora, fauna and stunning mountains. The trek encompasses 3 regions including Lamjung, Manang, Mustang etc.The lower regions offer views of lush subtropical valleys and terraced rice fields. The upper regions are predominantly Tibetan Buddhist areas with unique cultures found at each stop.
The trek goes counterclockwise from the town of Besisahar to Jomsom reaching its peak at the Thorung La pass at 5416 meters. The trip offeres views of Manaslu, Langtang Himal, Annapruna I, II, III, IV, Gangapurna and the worlds deepest gorge. The infamous Poon Hill vantage point offers spectacular panoramic views of the region and the famous Macchupucchre Fishtail.The trek also features many prominent Buddhist and Hindu religions sites featuring many temples, monasteries and other areas of spiritual significance. The full Annapurna Circuit offers a great way to experience diversity in terrain and culture while viewing some of the worlds most impressive mountains and scenery. Due to the construction of road in both Manang Side & Jomsom side now the Annapurna circuit is totally destroyed and numbers of jeeps are running in the moterable road which throws the dust and disturbs the trekkers . the original trekking pleasure has gone while you approach the jomsom region once crossing the Thorangla so we Good Karma Trekking had brought a new concept of half Annapurna circuit and which starts from Beshishara nd ends in Jomsom . enjoy our half Annapurna circuit .!
Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport (TIA), you will be greeted by a representative from the Good Karma Trekking team holding a sign with your name in the parking lot. After a brief introduction, you will be escorted to your hotel. After check in, and welcome drinks you will be free to explore around the backpacker haven of Thamel.
Today after breakfast we will start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu including Durbar Square, and Pashupati temple that are both Unesco World Heritage Sites. You will also visit the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) that is one of the large Stupas in the world. Afterwards, you will meet with your trek leader for a briefing and a short question and answer section about your trip. You will also have time to shop for any additional trekking equipment with staff assistance if necessary.
Day 3Drive to Besi Sahar [820m] [drive approx 6 hours]
Today we will review our plan and begin our Annapurna trekking adventure. After driving along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway to Dumre past the Marsyangdi River. We will pass through several scenic low-lying villages and rice fields. After 6 hours, we will reach Besi Sahar; the capital of the Lamjung District.
As continue through the Marsyangdi Valley, we get our first views of the magnificent Annapurna mountain ranges. The trail then continues past a series of suspension bridge and follows terraced rice fields offering breathtaking view of Manaslu and picturesque cascading waterfalls. As the trail continues uphill, we pass Ngadi village. Before passing through the challenging trails to Bahundanda. Bahundanda literally means "Brahmin hill" and as the name suggests Bahundanda is largely inhabited by Brahmins; the people who will host us for the evening.
A steep trail descends from Bahundanda, through rice fields, before crossing a stream at the bottom of a small waterfall. It then rises s again and traverses the hillside high above the river before reaching the village of Hani Gaon. Ahead, the Marshyangdi valley forms a steep V-shape. We follow the winding mountain path through Syange along a relaxing river. The trail then climbs steeply and the path cuts into the sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed. We will descend to the famous stone village of Jagat, situated on a shelf, jutting out into the precipitous Marsyangdi valley.
The trail from Jagat descends until it reaches the river and then continues through a charmingly lush forest. Further ascent leads to sharp-edged cliff facing the riverbank. Along the way Chyamje comes into vies amidst the towering Annapurna mountain ranges. After crossing a suspension bridge, we continue our climb towards the challenging path to Sattale. After treading along a succession of rock-laden trails, we descend to a grassy riverbank passing through Tal as the trail becomes increasing difficult and narrow. We then approach the steep forested village of Karte before passing along waterfalls and cliffs for our arrival at Dharapani.
We continue through a narrow field offering vies of Dudh Khola, which originates from the south face of Manaslu. Views of Annapurna II become visible as we approach Bagarchhap; a Bhotia village with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. As we continue through forests of pine and oak, we pass through Dhanakyu before coming to a thundering waterfall. Further on, the Marshyangdi River enters a gorge and the trails follows rock-strewn path.We will stop for a rest and take time to admire the picturesque Manaslu. When the steep incline ends, we follow a path amid magnificent rhododendrons and continue on a gently rising path. We cross a stream before entering a pine forest before entering the pristine hamlet of Kotho that offers the most enthralling view of Annapurna II. As we continue, the route reaches a large white gate with a corrugated iron roof, which is the entrance of Chame. Chame is the administrative headquarter of Manang district. There is electricity, wireless station, schools, shops, health post, post office, police check post, hotels, lodges and banks in Chame. The hot springs are the major attraction and a great way to relax after your hike.
After a mesmerizing sight of the glowing Lamjung Himal [6893m] in the morning, we head off for Pisang crossing a large suspension bridge along Marshyangdi as we pass quaint houses and lodges on the northern side of the river. Our trekking trail meanders through barley field leading to Teleku at 2775 meters. As we leave rolling mountain passes, we enter a fascinating apple orchard and near a bridge at 2840 meters. While crossing the bridge, the pristine hamlet of Bratang appears. History has it that Bratang used to be a Khampa settlement. A stone memorial of a Japanese climber has been built in this place.After leaving the forested village, the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape as the Annapurna mountain range comes into full visibility. Further on, we continue our steep rock-strewn trails to the south side and cross a long suspension bridge at 3040 meters. The bridge offers excellent views of the Paungda Danda rock rising more than 1500 meters from the river. En route, we will soak in splendid views of Annapurna II rearing up on the east and Pisang Peak before arriving to the village of Pisang.
As we continue with our trek, we head along a steep ridge providing beautiful sights of the Manang valley and the Tilicho peak towering above at 7132 meters. As we descend through Manang's airstrip, we come to Hongde lying beneath the gigantic Annapurna III on the northeast face. The route leads to the wide plain of the Sabje Khola Valley offering timeless views of Annapurna IV [7525m]. We continue past a wooden bridge, as the Marsyangdi Khola gushes below us before passing through the beautiful village of Mungji. We will continue passing along the cultivated fields before visiting the monastery at Bryaga. While trekking down to Manang, we will enjoy the majestic views of the Annapurna range including sights of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna [7455m] and Tilicho Peak [7134m].
After reaching Manang, we take a day off for complete rest and adequate acclimatization before crossing the Thorung La. We can spend this day exploring Manang or venturing down the river to see the tremendous icefall cascading down from the glaciated mountain peaks. A short visit to Himalayan Rescue Association [HRA] aid post makes for an interesting visit.
Thoroughly acclimatized, we advance towards Thorung La, crossing a stream before climbing to Tengii. We will continue past the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of the Jarsang Khola. Amid the spectacular vistas of Annapurna mountain range, we trek beyond the lush vegetation of scrub juniper and alpine grasses to reach the small village of Gunsang. Gunsang is a delightful collection of flat mud roofs just below the trail at 3960 meters. We then continue through picturesque meadows and rich forests of barberry, juniper and other indigenous plants and will see wild horses and yaks grazing in the meadow. The trail then continues further along a large stream that flows from Chulu West and Gundang, and leads to a rich pasture at 4000 meters.
The trail from Letdar continues as we climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of the Marshyangdi River via a covered wooden bridge. After a short ascent up the mountain path on the right bank, we follow a narrow trail across an unstable steep slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi.
We have an early start today for the crossing of Thorung La [5416m]. The trail becomes steep immediately on leaving camp, but as local people have used this trail for hundreds of years, the path is well defined. The gradient flattens after around 4 hours of steady climbing, we reach chorten as prayer flags form our pass. From the snow-covered mountains above, to the head of the Kali Gandaki valley below we are surrounded by the brown and purple hills of Mustang offering a once in a lifetime vantage point.
The descent to Muktinath is a 1600m trek. But the excellent views of Dhaulagiri, more then makes up for the tiring journey. Eventually the moraines give way to grassy slopes before a pleasant walk along the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath, home to many curious shrines and temple.
We now begin the descent down the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge & we will reach the so famous Kagbeni . which is the entrance of Upper Mustang Trekking , here you will have Lunch and you will proceed to Jomsom .
Departure to airport by Good Karma Trekking staffs.
Includes
>
Airport pick up & Transfer to hotel
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB basis (Tourist Standard Hotel to Five Star deluxe Hotel in Kathmandu as you prefer )
Government license holder Trekking Guide.
Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bag pack during the trekking.
Three time meal during the trekking Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS)
Annapurna Conservation Fee
Overland Transportations Bus ,car, & flights as you prefer
Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, Good Karma Trekking duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)&( optionally if you have your own bags, down jackets and wants to use your own you are free to bring them)
Kathmandu valley sightseeing tour with private vehicle as mentioned in itinerary
Trekking guide and porters accommodation, fare, meal, equipments and salary & Insurance
All program as mentioned in itinerary.
Government Tax and office service charge.
Welcome Dinner
Airport drop
Excludes
Nepal Visa fee
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
Lunch & Dinner during Kathmandu stay
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, Soft drinks such as cola, , shower & any Purely personal nature expenses etc)
Travel and rescue insurance
Tips for guides and porters
Emergency rescue evacuation if needed
City Tour entrance fees in Kathmandu and Pokhara while entering Temple and Monastery
From the moment we stepped outside Kathmandu airport we knew we were in good hands. Raj and his professional team had taken care of everything. Our trek to Everest Base Camp is one we will remember for a long time. From accomodation, to meals, guide and porters. Everything went smoothly. Even the tricky weather in Lukla didn't hold us up too much. The tour of Kathmandu was great and we especially enjoyed the opening dinner that Raj planned for us.
I highly recommend Good Karma Trekking.
We are planing to return to Nepal and trek the Annapurna Circuit. We will definitely book with Raj and Good Karma Trekking again.
Best travel agency, very helpful and friendly staff. They offer great possibilities for trekking, excursions, help take care of all permits. Great company, wonderful trip, friendship for life. I would recommend!
Booked my first trip to Nepal with Good Karma after some recommendations on Tripadvisor. From my first email I was impressed with the level of attention I received and how flexible they were (something I couldn't get with several other other companies I and contacted). Had a great trip including sightseeing in Kathmandu and trekking to Everest base camp, and everything went extremely smoothly (except for the weather). Just returned from my second trip there and already planning my third. Its an amazing country, and Raj and the Good Karma team made it a great experience. Happy to answer any questions people have.
Kind, attentive, honest, dedicated attention is awaiting on your travels with Good Karma. I went to the Everest Base Camp(14 days), Bhutan (4 days) and the Chitwan game preserve (3 days) with them and was very well treated at a great price.
I recommend them for travel in Nepal under reliable conditions.
I will be glad to answer any inquiries on their subject.
A perfect travel partner on the foothills of Hiamalayas. I can proudly recommend my near and dear to Good Karma. Thanks a lot Good karma for excellent services on our trek.
I have traveled in many countries, but my experience in Nepal was special, thanks to Raj and his team who organized the exceptional way to all desired goals in this expedition which I had in Nepal and Tibet this autumn. I hope with all my heart to revisit again because I really miss Nepal. I started learning Hindi language since a few days.
So, Raj, Biji, I feel like I will visit you again! There are a lot of places that I have not seen yet! GOOD KARMA TREKKING is the best Agency for me!
Raj was knowledgeable and more than accommodating during our travels. We used Good Karma Trekking to book a trek to Annapurna, do white water rafting, and visit the elephants. It was one of the best trips I've had in my life and I've been to over 50 countries now. I would strongly recommend them to anyone who is traveling to Nepal and seeking a professional and friendly travel agency
BOOKING WITH KARMA: I booked a one-person tour to the Annapurna Circuit during the off season in August. During my inquiries with various trekking companies, Raj from Good Karma replied promptly and was always making sure that my needs were met before, during and after the trek. He was very flexible with whatever mode of transportation I desired to use even if it was just a couple of days in advance (including a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu with two days notice) . THE TOUR: The tour itself was amazing. True, the Annapurna Circuit can be done with no guide. But Raj provide me with none other than a Sherpa guide would allowed for easy communication with locals and got the best rooms and meals in all the lodges. He also knew where the shortcuts are and made sure my safety was a priority (specially with altitude sickness). TRANSPORTATION : Always keep in mind that Nepal is not the most developed nation in terms of infrastructure and road systems. I highly recommend getting a private vehicle. The drivers that Raj provides are some of the best I've seen even though they drive like maniacs. I felt relatively safe compared to a tourist bus/local bus. These are worse and the safety standards are very low OVERALL: I highly recommend this tour company. Make sure you communicate with Raj constantly so he knows what your needs are.
Had an unforgettable experience trekking the Annapurna Circuit with Good Karma in 2012. Nabraj and his team are knowledgable, passionate and great hosts, and are genuine in providing the best experience possible. They went above and beyond to cater to our interests and provided outstanding hospitality. Nabraj has become a good friend since, we are regularly in touch and I look forward to joining Good Karma on a trek again soon!
I worked with Good Karma Trekking a few years ago when they organized a trip through Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan for me and a group of almost 30 people. They were the best choice for our trip. The hotels they booked, the accommodation, the vehicles used for our transportation were all top class. Raj and his team really know their country (and the neighboring countries) and are able to custom made programs that suit each and every individual on a group, no matter the size. We particularly enjoyed the trips around Kathmandu valley, up to Nagarkot, down in the jungle in Chitwan and resting at the foot of Anapurna in Pokhara. Raj even organized some trips that were not in the initial schedule and which were greatly appreciated - for instance the visit to Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu.
I was also on the group that took a tour of Tibet with Good Karma Trekking. Everything went smooth, from crossing the border into China to altering the program so we could stay at a lower altitude when some of our colleagues felt sick.
For all of us on that trip Raj also became a good friend and we kept in touch ever since.
Whenever I hear someone thinking of visiting Nepal I always recommend Good Karma Trekking. I am also sure that next time myself and any other member of the group would want to go to the Himalayan region Good Karma Trekking would be our first choice.
I went on a one month trip to Nepal with Good Karma Trekking, and I must say it was really amazing! Well worth the time and the cost of traveling there! Part of what made my experience so wonderful was the guide that I had. His name is Raj Ghimire, and he is the sole proprietor of GOOD KARMA TREKKING LTD. He is a truly honest guy, with a very kind heart, and I believe that he would give you the BEST Nepal experience, no matter where in the country you want to travel. When my friends and I were over there, he treated us like family (no, I'm not exaggerating), and I still stay in touch with him. His rates are GREAT too! And if you need porters, tea house reservations, or a personal driver to show you Kathmandu or Chitwan Park, he did ALL of these arrangements for us.
This was literally the best experience I've had with a travel company anywhere in the world. They are efficient, culturally smart and very friendly. They even went out of their way to help with issues that were not necessarily part of our contract. I will definitely trust them to organize any trip for me in the future.
Good Karma organized everything for my trip including city tours, travel, hotels and trekking. They were very professional and helpful creating a trip that included what i wanted to see and not just the standard itinerary. The owner Raj even helped bargain for lower prices on souvenirs and trekking equipment while i was in Kathmandu. He also showed me some of his favorite restaurants and some of the local specialties and offered me some wild honey from his home town. The trek went great and the guide was very knowledgeable about the trails and flora and fauna of the himalayas. I have done a trip with abovethehimalays before and the service and price of Good Karma was much better. I would suggest this company to anyone looking for an authentic experience.
We had a great experience with Good Karma Trekking in Kathmandu, Nepal. Raj, the owner of the company, was very helpful. He has an excellent knowledge about the Kathmandu area, and generally about Nepal. He is more than a usual travel agency, passionate about his work, and about promoting the Nepal sights. I am sure that we will use his services again when we return to Nepal, hopefully soon.
Your Good Karma always brings you upto Good Karma trekking. Leave everything on their hand and simply discover your Good Karma. They are perfect to plan your Nepal, Tibet, India and Bhutan program.
I met Raj in Kathmandu through a mutual friend and I've been amazed by his hospitality and generosity. They gave me all the informations I needed about the transportation, treks and more! Thank you for your kindness and your support and I really hope to meet you again! Cheers
Fantastic experience with Good Karma Trekking. Always keen to help and to make sure you are well taken care of in Nepal. Would not hesitate to recommend them to friends and family!
I was In Nepal last year and I really enjoyed the time. I must say that the service offered by Good Karma Trekking is excellent. I would recommend it to all, if you went to Nepal.
I used Good Karma Trekking for a first trip to Nepal in Nov 2011 and from the moment of contact the trip went very smoothly. I would highly recommend this company and would be happy to be contacted independently to provide a review.
En 2012 tuve el agrado de conocer a Nabraj Ghimire en Katmandú. Su ayuda en una país desconocido me sirvió de mucho. Es una persona honesta y desinteresada que realiza su trabajo con vocación.
