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This multiple day trekking itinerary provides a personal test through the foothills of the Annapurna range, in the heart of the Himalayas. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 3,200 metres at the top of Poon Hill, to witness the sunrise over the towering peaks beyond. From here the views over the mountain panorama are simply breathtaking, and makes all the physical effort totally worthwhile

Beginning in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, the group will explore the city's temples, monuments and historic squares wtih a local guide. 

After sightseeing in Kathmandu, the group moves onto Pokhara, and the majestic Annapurna range beyond. On the first days of the trek, the ascent is gradual, in order for pupils to best acclimatise to the altitude. As the group treks higher, the rewards become more spectacular, with jaw dropping views of Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the mysterious Fishtail Mountain.

The trek finishes back in Pohkara, with time to relax in the cafes surrounding the tranquil lake, before heading to Kathmandu for some final souvenir shopping in Kathmandu and a farewell dinner. 

Typical itinerary

  1. Day 1: Depart UK

  2. Day 2: Arrive Kathmandu

    On arrival into Kathmandu, you will be met at the airport and transferred to a hotel in the city. After a little time to relax after the flight, enjoy a short orientation walk to the famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The group return for dinner at the hotel, before an early night, ready for the challenge ahead. 

  3. Day 3: Transfer to Pokhara

    After breakfast, transfer by private bus to Pokhara. The drive passes by rural scenery, giving an insight into the small towns and villages beyond Kathmandu.  After arriving in Pokhara, there will be time at the hotel to relax, before a trek briefing, followed dinner at the hotel.

  4. Day 4: Trek Day 1

    After breakfast, drive out from Pokhara to the trek starting point. Th first section crosses a suspension bridge, over the Modi Khola River, before slowly ascending through scenic terraced fields and mountain villages. During the trek you are likely to encounter mule or goat caravans carrying supplies, distinctive by their accompanying musical bells. Towards the end of today, as the village of Tikhedhunga draws near, the peaks of Machhapuchare and Annapurna 1 come into sight for the first time.  

  5. Day 5: Trek Day 2

    Today starts with a steep ascent, and after a rest stop the trek takes a gradual uphill route, passing small village and terraces, before reaching Ghorepani.  Along today’s route, the group will pass rhododendron forests, typically found in this part of the Himalayas. If it is a clear day, you will be rewarded with stunning mountain views from Ghorepani (2,570 metres), making the challenging section very rewarding.  From here, views stretch across the rolling valleys to the northwest to the famous Dhaulagiri.

  6. Day 6: Trek Day 3

    Waking up before dawn, today's trek begins in the darkness, as you walk by torch light to the stunning viewpoint of Poon Hill (3,200 metres). Arriving before sunrise, you can witness the stunning dawn break illuminating Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak with a surreal pink glow, before the sun slowly climbs up and the full Annapunra panorama comes into view. Afterwards, return to Ghorepani for breakfast, before a shorter day trekking to the village of Tadapani, again through rhododendron forests and passing small villages.

  7. Day 7: Trek Day 4

    Today’s trek starts with a steady descent through a forested hillside, with some steep sections to watch out for. Upon arrival at the small settlement Bhaisi Kharka, stop for a tea break before continuing down and meeting the path to Kyunri Khola. Continue to Ghandruk, a traditional mountain village, which has prospered due to the famous Gurkha soldiers returning home and settling here. The group will stay in the village this evening.

    For the rest of the day, the group can relax and enjoy magnificent views of the famous Annapurna panorama, Fishtail mountain, plus Annapurna South, Gangapurna and Hiunchuli. If it is a clear night, star-gazing here is an awe-inspiring learning experience for pupils.

  8. Day 8: Trek Day 5

    After breakfast you will we descend slowly, passing small villages clutching the mountain side. As the trail continues, you will join a wider section and maintain the ridge descent slowly. Passing through the village of Kimchee (1,670 metres), enjoy a  scenic picnic spot for lunch, overlooking the mountains above and the valleys below. In the afternoon, the surroundings become greener, as you descend into the valley and your overnight stop. A highlight of today is the  opportunity to visit a natural hot spring and soothe your feet in the naturally heated waters.

  9. Day 9: Trek Day 6, return to Pokhara

    Today is the final day of the trek and you will follow the valley to the village of Nayapul. This is followed by a return drive into Pokhara, where there will be some free time for pupils to relax before the end of trek celebration dinner with the guides and porters.

  10. Day 10: Return to Kathmandu via Bhaktapur

    After breakfast, the group returns to Kathmandu by road, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhaktapur en route. The city is renowned for its temple, courtyards and art markets, and a local guide will take the group through the old town and historical centre.

  11. Day 11: Kathmandu: sightseeing

    After breakfast, begin a guided walking tour of Kathmandu to view the city's most important Buddhist and Hindu temples, before visiting the famous Swayabhunatha Temple, or more commonly known ‘Monkey Temple’. After lunch, pupils will have time for some final souvenir shopping, before the final night's dinner at a local restaurant.

  12. Day 12: Fly back to the UK

    After an early breakfast, depart from the hotel to Kathmandu Airport for the return flight to the UK.

Key info

This suggested itinerary is based on personal recommendation and can be tailored to suit your requirements.
  • Destination: Nepal
  • When to go: Apr to Oct
  • Duration: 15 days
  • Trip type: Explorer
  • Itinerary highlights:
    • Annapurna
    • Pokhara
    • Bhaktapur
    • Kathmandu
  • Activities:
    • City tour
    • Trekking
  • Accommodation: Hotels & teahouses
  • Ideal for: Ages 15 to 16
  • Travellers will need:
    • High level of fitness
    • Appreciation for outdoor adventure
    • Interest in encountering new cultures

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Locations

Featured locations:

Annapurna

Snow-covered Mount Annapurna 2 at sunrise

Annapurna is one of the finest trekking locations in the world due to its incredible Himalayan beauty, brilliant collection of stunning trekking routes and vibrant Nepalese culture. Find out more about Annapurna

Kathmandu

Prayer flags in the sunlight on the dome of Boudhanath Stupa

The point of entry for trips in Nepal, Kathmandu is a city bursting with religion, culture and history. Located in the beautiful Kathmandu Valley, the city is the heart of Nepal. Find out more about Kathmandu

Pokhara

Boats on Phewa Lake with snow-capped Himalayas in the background

The gateway to the Annapurna mountain range and a popular tourist destination, Pokhara is the place to go for trekking and adventure activities in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. Find out more about Pokhara

Bhaktapur

Interesting architecture of Bhaktapur temple complex

One of the ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur is a beautifully preserved historic city with its Durbar Square, Newari architecture, statues and pagodas. Find out more about Bhaktapur