This is an exciting and demanding trek high into the heart of the mighty Annapurna region, exploring some of the wild glacial areas below Annapurna South where few trekkers have gone before. The trip is sure to be demanding and will involve the use of ice axe and crampons, although prior mountaineering experience is not required. The trek is one of great contrast, encompassing all the features of the area from the terraced village lowlands, through the forests and agricultural areas of the middle hill country, to the glacial basins of the Annapurna Mountains. The trek starts from the sub-tropical Pokhara Valley and passes through paddy fields before gradually ascending through terraced hillsides of wheat and barley. At each of the villages along the way we are warmly received by the local Gurung and Magar people. The walking is sensibly paced so we have ample opportunity to experience and absorb local lifestyles that have changed little over centuries. From the start we enjoy ever-changing views of the stunning, snow-covered Annapurna Mountains. Halfway through the trek we leave habitation behind and walk through rhododendron and oak forests, alive with exotic birds and beautiful flowers, to finally emerge above the tree line at Kopra Danda. Here we experience the stunning wilderness scenery beneath the towering peaks of Annapurna; to the west lies Dhaulagiri and far below lies the Kali Gandaki River Valley, which is the world’s deepest. As we climb higher above the tree line we enter a fantastic mountain wilderness visited only by local shepherds during the monsoon months. The truly spectacular vista is dominated by Annapurna I (8091m) and Dhaulagiri (8167m), the highest peaks in the region. However this unique trek concentrates on the unexplored wilderness around Annapurna South (7237m), a remote and magnificent area that is rarely visited. An exploration of the rugged area below Annapurna South is sure to be the highlight of our journey. This is an adventure for those truly looking for something exciting.

Day 01- Arrival in Kathmandu
Today is your arrival day. We welcome you upon your arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to Hotel in Kathmandu or anywhere in Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur). A city briefing concerning the necessary formalities on your tour and trek program ahead will follow. Depending upon your arrival time you may spend free time visiting nearby historic/Countryside areas or resting.

Day 02 -  Half Day Cultural Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Half day sightseeing in Kathmandu World Heritage site where your guide will accompany you on a tour of UNESCO enlisted temples and unique fusion shrines of Newari architecture, reflecting a rare blend of Hinduism and Buddhism. There is enough time to explore the city’s many places of interest with your guide or on your own or simply take a rest. Our Trek Leader/Guide will meet you in the afternoon for trek briefing and final trek preparation. In the evening, sample a delicious traditional Nepali Welcome dinner in authentic Nepali Restaurant with the cultural dance performance and music. Private vehicle is there for you to pick up and drop in at your Hotel. Overnight Hotel stay in Kathmandu.

Day 03 - Chainabatthi (1410m)
An early departure from the hotel this morning as we are transferred to the domestic terminal at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan Airport. From here we fly to Pokhara, with a flight time of about 30 minutes and often spectacular views of the main Himalayan chain to the north. After arriving in Pokhara we are transferred by road (private bus) to the starting point of the trek at Lumle which we should reach in the early afternoon. Our first day’s walk is particularly easy, following sub-tropical terrain traversing through the villages of Lumle, Chandrakot and finally to our lodge at Chainabathi located high above the Modi Khola Valley with super views of the fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and Annapurna South. (3.30 Hrs including Drive)

Day 04 -  Upper Ghandruk (1950m)
In the morning we descend steeply through terraced hillsides to the Modi Khola and the very pretty village of Syauli, where we cross the river. Here we continue to enjoy superb views of the great peaks of Annapurna South and  Machhapuchhare, seen to the north standing guard over the entrance of the Annapurna Sanctuary. From Syauli after a pleasant tea stop we start the climb to Ghandruk. The trail initially ascends a stone staircase high above the river valley where, to the north, there are again superb views of the Annapurna Mountains. A short but steep section leads to Kimche (1630m), where we break for lunch and enjoy a well-deserved rest. We then continue on to Chane on a wide, well-defined, path of stone flags that contours its way through fields of wheat and millet to the largest village of the region, Ghandruk. This Gurung village is well known for the number of its menfolk who have served in the British Ghurkha regiments. Our lodge is located above the main village in a quiet location, where we enjoy fine mountain views, in particular Annapurna South (7237m), Machhapuchhare (6993m) and Gangapurna (7455m).6;30 hrs

Day 05 - Tadapani (2650m)
Another day ascending, but an easier walk now that we have found our trekking legs! Leaving the terraced hillsides and the village of Ghandruk behind we enter oak and rhododendron forest. This is a particularly pretty part of the walk, the forest often alive with the sound of birds, the small tumbling waterfalls and if you visit in Spring, (late March to April) the rhododendron in full bloom. There are no villages on today’s route, but there are a few teahouses at Baisi Kharkha providing welcome drinks and a place to rest. There are fine views of Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7237m), Machhapuchhare (6993m) and Lamjung Himal (6931m) along the way. Our lodge at Tadapani is the perfect setting for sunset and sunrise views. (4 Hrs)

Day 06 - Bhainsi Kharka (2900m)
We leave the main trail that leads to Ghorepani and instead follow a rarely used trail initially through a thick rhododendron forest that leads to local water buffalo pastures. The climb is gradual and we soon emerge above the tree line to superb views of the Annapurna range. We take lunch by a small stream and, in the afternoon, continue to climb gradually though open countryside to reach a small pass, where our trail descends through rhododendron to an open clearing, known as Bhaisi Kharka, and our Camping. From the campsite there are great views of Dhaulagiri Himal. (6 Hrs )

Day 07 - Bhainsi Kharaka to Upper Chistibung (3000m)
In the morning we descend through open ground and forest to reach the pastures of Lower Chistibung, where we take lunch. In the afternoon we continue to walk through forest, ascending gradually and passing through several buffalo grazing pastures to reach a clearing and temporary herders’ settlement, known as Upper Chistibung, where we set up our camp near by small community. (5 hrs)

Day 08 - Upper Chistibung to Kopra Ridge (3870m)
To reach the ridge at Kopra we have a steady climb that takes us above the tree line. This area is noted for wildlife and we should keep our eyes open for Himalayan thar and Danfe pheasant. The best way to tackle the climb is to ascend steadily, take our time and rest as often as we wish. We reach our campsite on Kopra Ridge in time for lunch and we will be greeted more fantastic views. This extraordinary panorama includes Annapurna South, towering directly above and only six kilometres away, and Fang and Nilgiri prominent to the north, whilst across the depths of the Kali Gandaki Valley, the Dhaulagiri Himal dominates the entire western skyline. (3 Hrs)

Day 09 - Exploration Day in Kopra Ridge (3870m)(Exploration Day)
We have allowed a further day for exploration towards the Annapurna peaks. If conditions permit, the opportunity to visit the holy lakes at Khaire should not be missed, although it makes for a long and demanding day. The Pautaarko Khaire is the site of the Bada Purnima Festival, held annually in August and September. Villagers from the surrounding area converge here to pray to Lord Shiva, bathe in the icy-cold waters of the lake and offer sacrifices of sheep. For those wishing for an easier option, a walk high on the ridge will provide fantastic views. Dhaulagiri I and its ranges of peaks dominate the western skyline. Annapurna I (8091m), Fang (7647m), Annapurna South (7237m) and Nilgiri North (7061m) to the east are separated from the Dhaulagiri Range by the 6,000-metre-deep Kali Gandaki Gorge. To the north lies Tukuche Peak (6920m) and behind it, the trans-Himalayan ranges form the border of Nepal with China (Tibet). To the south, the rolling middle hills slowly disappear into the great plains of India.

Day 10 -  Kopra Ridge to Khaire Khola (4200m)
From Kopra Ridge we ascend gradually to the stone huts built to shelter pilgrims who attend religious ceremonies at the holy lake. In the monsoon months shepherds move large flocks of sheep into this area to graze on the grassy hillsides. This is a hauntingly beautiful region with the huge peaks of Annapurna South and Fang towering above our campsite. We rest up in the afternoon, acclimatise ourselves to the altitude and get ready for the next day's excursion to the lake. (4 hrs)

Day 11 -Acclimatisation Day in Khaire Khola (4200m)
To further help with acclimatisation we remain at Kaire Khola for another day and night. During the day we take packed lunches and follow a well-defined trail up a stone staircase to a lake known as Pautarko Kaire. This lake is the site of the Badau Purnima Festival, held annually in August and September. Villagers from the surrounding area converge here to pray to Lord Shiva, bathe in the icy-cold waters of the lake and offer sacrifices of sheep. Although not too distant from the camp, the walk to this glacial lake will be tiring due to the altitude. Ascending the hill behind the lake is also recommended, as it allows for superb views of Annapurna I. In the afternoon we retrace our steps back to the camp.(4 hrs)

Day 12 -  Khaire Khola to Celli Kharkha (4850m)
From the campsite we trek into a region only occasionally visited by local shepherds. Apart from our own groups, as far as we know, no other trekkers will have visited this region. The climb out of Tiboche Basin looks virtually impossible from our camp; however, a well-defined trail, marked by stone cairns and prayer flags, winds its way implausibly to the top, where a majestic panorama greets us. This high altitude plateau affords great views of the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and Annapurna South. From the saddle we traverse across the hillside to camp near a small stream and stone huts at Celli Kharka. (4 hrs)

Day 13 -  Exploration/ Rest in Celli Kharka
Today we can take a rest day here enjoying the exceptional views or can activate yourself going for side excursion.Our guides and staffs accompany you to have day excursion in this area secluded from other trekkers and local habitat.

Days 14 -Hidden Lake (4250m)
Today will be a highlight of our trek, as we reach a rarely visited lake set among jagged, rocky spires. The scenery is truly awe-inspiring and is known only to a handful of shepherds and hunters. When researching this area, it took many days to locate the exact position of this lake. Some villagers knew off the area, but had never visited it and this led to many conflicting stories as to where we should look for this lake. We camp a short distance from the lake itself and enjoy a full day exploring this remote place where you will undoubtedly find some of the most magnificent scenery in all of Nepal.

Day 15 - Excursion Day Around Hidden Lake

Days 16 - Annapurna South Base Camp (3400m)
From the lake we gradually climb up to a small pass that leads to a steep descent to Annapurna South Base Camp. The scene is here breathtaking, with tumbling glaciers and huge moraine walls. The towering face of Annapurna may unleash its anger to send plummeting one of the many huge avalanches which crash off this awesome mountain. We will be safely out of harm's way from these avalanches that have so often caused tragedy for climbing expeditions in the past. We set up camp at Annapurna South Base Camp and may even meet an expedition, as our arrival usually coincides with the climbing season. We have allowed a full day of exploration at Base Camp, where we have a chance to head up to the main glacier of this magnificent peak. (4 hrs)

Day 17 - Explorating Excursion Day in Annapurna South BC

Day 18 - Bhainsi Kharka (3120m)
In the morning there is one last chance for spectacular photographs before we follow the Kymrong Khola down a narrow gorge and out of this small sanctuary. The climb out of the valley is fairly steep, but once we reach the rim, our return route to Pokhara comes into view. A steep, but short, descent then leads to our camp at Baisi Kharkha.(5 hrs)

Day 19 -Kot Danda (2200m)
In the morning it is a long descent through forest to reach the village of Kymrong, our first habitation for over a week. We take lunch here before climbing steeply to a saddle and a couple of tea houses. Instead of following the main trail to Ghandruk we bear left and ascend for a short distance through rhododendron forest to reach our lodge that stands alone on an isolated hilltop, known as Kot Danda. The location is magnificent - to the north, Annapurna South and Machhapuchhare, seem as if they are almost within touching distance. To the south there are spectacular views of the terraced hillsides and pretty villages extending towards the Indian border. We arrive in the early afternoon and visit the nearby village before enjoying the sunset. (6hrs)

Day 20 -Trek to Nayapool/ End Trek /Drive to Pokhara (913 m)
Today is nearly all downhill through the terraced hillsides. We return to the village of Ghandruk and then descend on a well defined stone staircase to the village of Shyauli Bazar, where we take lunch. In the afternoon it is a short walk to Birethanti, on the banks of the Modi Khola River, and from here we join the road head for the transfer, by coach, back to Pokhara. We are transferred by coach back to Pokhara and stay at Lakeside Hotel, which is located close to the lakeside. After a welcomed shower, we have the rest of the day free to relax or do some exploring. In the evening there is the option to dine out at one of the many lakeside restaurants. (6:30 hrs)

Day 21 - Leisure in Pokhara (913m)
We have allocated a further day in the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. Your Local leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities or you may just wish to relax and laze around. The lakeside area has good shopping opportunities and internet cafés. It is well certainly worthwhile hiring a boat for a row out on the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal. Pokhara has an interesting old area as well as an elaborate Hindu temple and a Buddhist monastery. There are various small museums around the town including the International Mountaineering Museum, which is well worth a visit.

Day 22 -Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight
After  Breakfast, we are ready  for the scenic drive to Kathmandu.It takes nearly 6 hours to get back to Kathmandu witnessing highway life and travel in Nepal from West. Overnight  hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 23-  Leisure in Kathmandu (1360m)
Leisure Time in Kathmandu. It’s indeed time for the souvenir hunting around Kathmandu’s noted places having optional trip to tranquil historic Heritages in your own or with us or  with our versatile guide. We provide extra drive and drop services anywhere.

Day 24 – Depart Kathmandu
Our Tour officer will meet you in your Hotel for Departure Transfer to Kathmandu’s International Airport. We will always welcome you back to Nepal in future and look forward to serving you as per your interests.

The Trek Cost Includes:

-- All the International and Departure Transfers
-- Pre and Post Trek deluxe Star Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu and in Pokhara
-- Domestic airport Transfers
-- Private transportation to/from Trek 
-- Domestic Flight to/ from Pokhara
-- Half Day Guided Cultural Sightseeing in Kathmandu
-- Comprehensive Trekking Map
-- Authentic Nepali Welcome Dinner
-- All the accommodation and full board meals and hot beverages on the trek
-- Camping accommodation with crews, chef, toilet, shower tent, Kitchen, Dining Tents, Kitchen utensils.
-- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit
-- Our Extensive Knowledgeable Licensed Guides and porter services with porter gears
-- Field staff Insurances
-- Private Transportation to / from Nayapool and Phedi
-- Domestic Airport Tax
--Dawn Jackets, Sleeping bag, walking poles, duffel bag,free loan facilities
-- Extensive First aid medical kit 
-- Quick Rescue supporting services in case of Emergency
-- Extra snacks services
-- Satellite phone/Communication services in case of Emergency
-- Applicable government Taxes
-- Himalayan Eco Trek Team Management

The Trek cost excludes:
-- All the personal expenses like Alcoholic beverages, Bottled drinks etc.
-- Medical and Travel Insurances
-- International Airfare and taxes
-- Visa Fees
-- Gratuities/tips
-- Emergency Helicopter Rescue charges
-- Main Meals in Kathmandu and in Pokhara