Kathmandu

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our office representatives will greet you with a warm “Namaste” and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to roam the lively streets, taste local cuisine, or visit nearby highlights—Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, and the majestic Boudhanath Stupa—framed by the valley’s verdant hills and distant Himalayan peaks. Sightseeing is not included in the package, but you are welcome to explore independently or let us arrange a guided city tour for you at a reasonable price. A short pre-departure meeting will be held in the hotel lobby this evening to review trek logistics and answer any questions. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Pokhara Lakeside

Pokhara (822m) is Nepal’s adventure hub and the starting point of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Today, you travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus, a 7–8 hour journey that follows the scenic Prithvi Highway along rivers, forests, and terraced hillsides. The route offers glimpses into rural Nepali life, with roadside bazaars, rice fields, and suspension bridges. Upon arrival at the Pokhara tourist bus park, a private vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in the Lakeside area. Pokhara’s calm atmosphere, lakeside charm, and views of Machapuchare make it a perfect transition from city life to trekking spirit. Spend the evening at leisure—exploring cafes, shopping for last-minute gear, or enjoying a lakeside walk.

Chhomrong (2,170m) is a beautiful Gurung village perched along a terraced hillside with dramatic views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The day begins with a 3-hour drive from Pokhara to Siwai, passing through Nayapul and Birethanti along a rough mountain road that traces the Modi Khola. From Siwai, the trek begins gradually through bamboo groves and terraced fields, ascending steadily. The route includes about 600m of ascent, passing small hamlets and teahouses. After crossing a suspension bridge near Jhinu Danda, the final stretch is a steep stone staircase climb to Chhomrong. This is the last permanent settlement on the trail and the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. The village features excellent views, traditional Gurung culture, and well-equipped teahouses to rest before heading deeper into the mountains.

Dovan (2,600m) is a forested village nestled deep in the Modi Khola gorge, offering a peaceful resting point as you ascend toward the Annapurna Sanctuary. The day begins with a descent from Chhomrong down stone staircases to the Chhomrong Khola, followed by a steep ascent to Upper Sinuwa with panoramic views of Annapurna South. The trail then enters dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, becoming cooler and quieter. You’ll pass through Bamboo village, where trekkers often break for tea, before continuing a steady climb to Dovan. The total ascent today is approximately 850 meters, with some descent and undulating sections. Surrounded by tall trees and moss-covered rocks, Dovan offers a tranquil natural environment with limited but cozy teahouses, perfect for acclimatizing before the alpine terrain ahead.

Machapuchare

Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m) sits in a wide glacial valley surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, offering jaw-dropping views of Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and the sacred Fishtail Mountain (Machapuchare). Today’s trek climbs steadily from Dovan through lush forest to Himalaya, passing waterfalls and rock faces. After a break, the trail continues past Hinku Cave and steepens toward Deurali (3,200m), where the vegetation thins. The final climb to MBC follows the glacial moraine, with open vistas and alpine landscapes replacing the jungle. The total ascent is approximately 1,100m. MBC is surrounded by snowy ridges and serves as the final stop before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. The teahouses here are basic but offer extraordinary scenery and a true high-altitude mountain experience.

Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) is one of the most iconic and scenic high-altitude destinations in Nepal, set in a dramatic alpine amphitheater surrounded by towering giants including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the sacred Machapuchare. The trail from Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) is a steady but gradual ascent of about 430 meters through open glacial terrain and snow-covered ridges. As you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, panoramic views unfold with every step. Colorful prayer flags and stone memorials line the ridge leading into camp. Upon arrival, trekkers enjoy free time to explore the glacier basin, take in the 360° views, and reflect on the journey. Tonight’s stay at ABC is a special highlight—an unforgettable moment beneath the stars and snow peaks of the Himalayas.

Today’s route takes you from the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary back into the dense forest zone. Leaving Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), you begin a steady descent past MBC, Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan, retracing the route you ascended. The terrain drops rapidly—over 1,800 meters—with varying landscapes from open glacial moraines to mossy rhododendron forests and bamboo groves. As you descend, the air grows warmer and the vegetation returns. Occasional stone staircases, narrow forest paths, and slippery downhill sections require caution. Bamboo (2,310m) is a quiet teahouse settlement tucked into the forest, offering a peaceful and well-earned rest after one of the longest days of the trek. This stage marks your full transition out of high alpine terrain.

Jhinu Danda (1,780m) is a terraced hillside village perched above the Modi Khola, known for its natural hot springs and final views of the Annapurna range. From Bamboo, the trail descends steadily through thick forest, passing Sinuwa and the stone staircases of Chhomrong. After a short but steep climb of about 250m to Chhomrong ridge, you’ll descend more than 800 meters along a rugged staircase to Jhinu Danda. The total descent for the day is approximately 950 meters, mostly along stone and earthen steps. Jhinu is popular for its nearby hot springs—located 20 minutes downhill beside the river—where many trekkers choose to soak and relax. The village itself has several charming teahouses and expansive views of the valley below, offering one of the most rewarding and relaxing nights of the trek.

Pokhara Lakeside

Pokhara (822m) welcomes you back with warm air, lakeside views, and the comforts of the city after a final morning trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwai, a gentle downhill trail through terraced hills and small farms. The trek takes around 2.5–3 hours, descending about 400 meters along stone paths, bamboo groves, and scattered Gurung villages. At Siwai, a private vehicle will be waiting to drive you to your hotel in Pokhara—a scenic 3-hour ride along winding roads through the hills. Once in Pokhara, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Many trekkers celebrate their return with lakeside meals or massages. If you wish to stay longer, we highly recommend extending an extra night in Pokhara—just let us know in advance, and we’ll happily arrange accommodations or extra activities like paragliding, boating, or yoga.

Pokhara Lakeside

Pokhara (822m) is Nepal’s adventure capital and most relaxing city, framed by views of Machapuchare and the Annapurna range. Whether you're here to unwind or seek thrills, Pokhara offers something for everyone: go boating on Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, paraglide over hill ridges, explore caves and waterfalls, or stroll the lively lakeside promenade with cafés, yoga studios, and gear shops. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your trek in comfort. We highly recommend extending your stay by an extra day to enjoy Pokhara's peaceful vibe—just let us know in advance, and we’ll be happy to arrange accommodation and optional activities. For those short on time, a flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara is also available at additional cost, offering spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas in just 25 minutes.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu (1,334m) is the capital and cultural heart of Nepal, where your trek officially concludes. Today’s journey begins with a 7–8 hour drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus, following the winding and scenic Prithvi Highway. The route traces the Seti and Trishuli rivers, passing through terraced hillsides, colorful roadside towns, and lush valleys with frequent glimpses of daily Nepali life—rice fields, suspension bridges, and mountain backdrops. Upon arrival at the Kathmandu bus park, a private vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, Nepal’s most popular tourist district. The rest of the day is free to relax, enjoy a rooftop café, or shop for souvenirs. Many trekkers celebrate their achievement with a final dinner or massage before flying out the next day.

Kathmandu

After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you may have a few final hours to explore the colorful streets of Thamel—perfect for last-minute souvenir shopping or a quiet moment in a café. Our team will ensure your airport transfer is smooth and timely. As you leave Nepal, we hope your heart carries the spirit of the Himalayas, the kindness of the people, and the beauty of the journey you’ve completed. It’s been our great honor to host you, and we sincerely invite you to trek with us again, whether, to new peaks or familiar trails, the mountains are always calling. Until next time, safe travels and dhanyabad (thank you) from all of us at Sole Encounters Adventures.