The name Annapurna Adventure truly reflects the grandeur of this remarkable journey into the Annapurna Himalayas. This expedition was undertaken with a group of friends from Australia—many of whom are retired members of the Australian Air Force—who share a deep passion for trekking and hiking. Alongside them were close friends, family members, sons, and spouses. I had the privilege of leading this wonderful group, supported by two assistant guides, Min Dhamala and Pasang Titung Tamang, as well as five strong and dedicated porters who played a vital role throughout the journey.
After Intrepid DMC Nepal allocated the trip, I was extremely excited to lead this exceptional group. On 16 October, I prepared all necessary documentation in advance of the welcome meeting scheduled for 18 October at 9:30 AM. Once the staff assignments were finalized, I contacted Min, Pasang, and the porters to brief them on the journey and ensure everyone was well prepared to travel together as a team.
Day 1: Welcome Meeting and Trekking Gear Shopping
I arrived at Hotel Ambassador at 8:30 AM to prepare for the welcome meeting. After the setup was complete, I met one of the team members, Chris, who informed me that the group was having breakfast at the restaurant. Shortly afterward, I greeted everyone and welcomed them into the meeting hall.
The meeting began with introductions, followed by a detailed briefing covering the itinerary, expectations, safety considerations, and required trekking gear. The group was attentive, disciplined, and eager to learn. Following the meeting, eight participants proceeded to Thamel for trekking gear shopping, where they purchased essential items such as jackets, thermals, rain gear, and water bottles.
In the evening, we reconvened at 6:30 PM and walked together to a restaurant for dinner. We enjoyed an authentic Nepali Dal Bhat (Thali Set) accompanied by a cultural dance performance. After dinner, everyone returned to the hotel to rest and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Day 2: Four-Wheel Drive to Dharapani – Day one of the real Annapurna Adventure
We met at the hotel lobby at 5:45 AM, loaded our luggage, and departed at 6:00 AM in two jeeps. Each jeep carried five people, ensuring a comfortable journey. With packed breakfasts in hand, our Annapurna Adventure officially began.
We stopped several times along the way for short breaks and had lunch at Besisahar. The road from Besisahar to Dharapani was rough, bumpy, and dusty—an adventure in itself. After approximately three hours, we arrived at Dharapani (1,800 m), where the cool air welcomed us.
That evening, we enjoyed dinner and were introduced to additional team members who had arrived earlier. We also celebrated Trina Motti’s birthday, which came as a surprise arranged by her friend Chris. It was a long but memorable day.
Day 3: Dharapani to Chame (2,650 m)
This marked our first day of trekking. After breakfast at 7:00 AM, we took a group photo with the entire team and began our walk toward Chame. The initial section followed the road, where we encountered jeeps and motorbikes, but we were rewarded with spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu, Himal Chuli, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna II.
The trail became peaceful as we entered forested paths leading to Timang, where we enjoyed a tea break at 2,700 m—the highest point of the day. After lunch at Thanchowk, we continued via Koto, where our permits were registered, before reaching Chame.
The day’s trek covered approximately 15 km and took around six hours. Along the way, we witnessed Laxmi Puja and Rangoli decorations as part of the Tihar festival, adding cultural richness to the journey.
Day 4: Chame to Pisang (3,300 m)
After breakfast at 7:00 AM, we began our trek just before 8:00 AM. Assistant guide Min Dhamala led the group at a steady pace, while Pasang and I supported from the rear. The weather was perfect, allowing us to fully enjoy the surrounding scenery.
We walked mostly along the road via Bharatang, known for its apple gardens, and stopped for lunch at Dikur Pokhari, where the mountain views were truly breathtaking. After lunch, we continued toward Upper Pisang, enjoying stunning views of Annapurna II, and arrived by 2:30 PM.
At 4:00 PM, we visited the local monastery via a scenic village walk. While the monastery visit was enriching, we also observed the gradual modernization of the village, which is impacting its traditional character. The day concluded with a total walking distance of approximately 15 km.
Day 5: Pisang to Manang (3,550 m)
We chose the Upper Route via Gyaru, Ngawal, and Braga to reach Manang, as it offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range and dramatic landscapes of the Marsyangdi Valley.
Breakfast was at 6:30 AM due to the long trekking day of over 20 km. After a peaceful start in shaded trails, we tackled a steep climb, reaching Gyaru in about 1.5 hours. The views were extraordinary, and we paused for tea before continuing to Ngawal, where lunch had been pre-arranged.
The weather remained clear initially but turned colder upon reaching Manang in the afternoon. Although one group member felt fatigued and cold, everyone arrived safely. It was one of the longest yet rewarding days of the trek.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Parken Gumba (100 Lama Gumba)
After breakfast at 8:00 AM, we embarked on a short acclimatization hike to Parken Gumba. Although the resident nun was away in Kathmandu, we spent time enjoying panoramic views of the Manang Valley and surrounding peaks.
In the afternoon, we attended an informative lecture at the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) on altitude sickness. The day concluded with dinner and rest in preparation for the next stage.
Day 7: Manang to Yak Kharka (4,000 m)
We began trekking at 8:30 AM under sunny conditions, passing through Tanki Manang and Gunsang, where we enjoyed a long tea break with magnificent mountain views. The trail was gentle and relatively flat, making the walk comfortable.
Upon reaching Yak Kharka, we had lunch and rested before heading out for an acclimatization hike. The evening was spent relaxing, playing games, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 8: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
After breakfast, we trekked via Ledar using the upper route, which is safer and offers better views than the lower trail. The walk took about five hours, including breaks.
After lunch at Thorong Phedi, we completed our final acclimatization hike before the pass. The remainder of the day was spent resting and preparing for the most challenging day of the trek.
Day 9: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
This was the most anticipated day of the adventure. We woke up at 3:30 AM, had breakfast, and began trekking at 4:00 AM using headlamps. The ascent to Thorong La Pass was demanding but rewarding.
After a tea break at High Camp, we reached the summit around 9:00 AM. The sense of achievement was immense, and we spent time taking photos before beginning the long descent to Muktinath.
We had lunch around 1:00 PM at Phedi and later visited the Muktinath Temple, which was filled with thousands of pilgrims. That evening, hot showers, cold drinks, and celebrations marked the successful completion of the Annapurna Circuit Trek or Annapurna Adventure 2025.
Day 10: Muktinath to Kagbeni and Drive to Kalapani
The walk to Kagbeni was scenic and memorable, especially the fossil-hunting experience along the trail. After lunch, we said farewell to our assistant guides and porters and continued by jeep to Kalapani, arriving after approximately two hours.
Day 11: Drive to Pokhara
The day began with heavy rain. After breakfast, we drove toward Pokhara, stopping for lunch at Nayapul. Although we planned to visit the hot springs, only one member participated due to the weather conditions. We arrived in Pokhara and checked into our hotel for rest.
Day 12: Momo Cooking Class and International Mountain Museum
After breakfast, we attended a Momo cooking class at the Tibetan Refugee Camp, guided by Dolma Didi. It was a fun and interactive experience enjoyed by all, including two travelers from Israel who joined us.
Later, we visited the International Mountain Museum, spending around two hours before returning to the hotel for leisure time.
Here is the YouTube Video of the MoMo Cooking lesson from Dolma Didi
Day 13: Flight to Kathmandu
Due to poor weather conditions, our scheduled 11:00 AM flight was significantly delayed. We finally departed at 5:30 PM and arrived in Kathmandu around 6:00 PM after a long day of waiting.
Day 14: Boudhanath and Pashupatinath Tour – The final day of the Annapurna Adventure
Our final day included visits to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple—offering a rich experience of both Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
Conclusion
With this cultural tour, our Annapurna Adventure came to a meaningful conclusion. The journey offered not only the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna Himalayas but also deep cultural insights and lasting memories.
Heartfelt thanks to all participants from Australia and Switzerland, and special appreciation to my dedicated support team—Min Dhamala, Pasang Titung Tamang, and our five hardworking porters—who made this adventure a success
