Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Nepal
Summary
The Annapurna Himal is a vast massif with several peaks above
7000m. Part of the range forms a natural amphitheatre known as
the Annapurna Sanctuary, ringed by such giants as Annapurna 1,
Glacier Dome, Gangapurna, Fang and Machhapuchhare. The trek
starts through forested hillsides before arriving into the Sanctuary
with its panoramic views of the Annapurna. At higher altitudes the
close‐up mountain views are perhaps the finest in the world.
There is a day to explore this breathtaking mountain eden before
returning to Pokhara via a different route.
16
16 DAYS
15 DAYS
TNS
MIN AGE
FLIGHT INC.
LAND ONLY
TRIP CODE
At a glance
11 days point‐to‐point walking with full
porterage
Between 6 and 8 hours walking per day
Numerous stone steps
Altitude maximum 4130m, average
2440m
Internal flight from Pokhara to
Kathmandu included
Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader.
Min age 16 yrs
4 nights standard hotels and 10 nights
teahouses
All breakfasts included
Highlights
Stay overnight at Annapurna Base
Camp surrounded by mountains
Explore the Annapurna Sanctuary, a
huge amphitheatre ringed by glistening
peaks
Enjoy sunrise views of Dhaulagiri,
Machhapuchhare and the Annapurnas
from Poon Hill
Trek through magnificent forests,
terraced fields and pretty villages
Time in historic Kathmandu and
lakeside Pokhara
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Page 1
the time. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are
given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances
you will encounter.
The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the type of
accommodation normally used and any meals included. Please
see the Accommodation section below for further information.
Day 1 (Day 2 Ex London) ‐ Start Kathmandu
The group flights arrrive into Kathmandu this afternoon. There
will be a full trek briefing this evening. Standard Hotel
Day 2 (Day 3 Ex London) ‐ Drive to Birethanti
This trek is graded as moderate/challenging (level 4) and
comprises 11 days point‐to‐point walking with full porterage
throughout. The maximum altitude is 4,130m and the average is
2,440m. It is ideal for those who are confident of their physical
fitness, although most of the more challenging walking is on the
last approach to the Sanctuary itself. Some previous trekking
experience and physical preparation, such as hill walking, is
recommended.
Please note that in the Annapurna region there are many trails
that follow stone steps up and down. There are prolonged
ascents and descents on some days (in excess of 1000m). We
highly recommend using trekking poles on this route.
The trail crosses approximately five modern suspension bridges
over rivers and valleys; all have mesh sides and none are
particularly long or high, however anyone with a strong fear of
heights or vertigo may find them difficult.
You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference:
https//www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Traini
ng_Guide.pdf
As this trip spends considerable time at altitude, we ask you to
refer to the altitude warning under the 'Practical Information'
section below. Your comfort and safety are of foremost
importance on our treks, particularly at high altitude. Our leaders
have comprehensive first aid training and carry emergency
oxygen to treat altitude sickness, should this be needed.
Walking hours stated within the itinerary are given as
approximates only. Timings stated exclude lunch stops and will
vary depending on the pace of your group.
We leave early and drive westwards to Pokhara. This town is set
in a beautiful valley and is overlooked by the Annapurnas and
Machhapuchhare, one of the most distinctive of the Himalayan
peaks. We continue through Pokhara to Naya Pul and from there
have a 30‐minute walk to the village of Birethanthi, where we
stay overnight. Birethanthi is a riverside village at the confluence
of the Modi Khola and the Burungdi Khola. If there is time we can
bathe in the clear but cold pools of the Burungdi Khola. Basic
Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 3 (Day 4 Ex London) ‐ Ulleri‐Banthanti
We start our trek by following the Burungdi Khola upstream. After
a lunch stop in Tirkhedunga (renowned for its variety of local
beer called chang) we start the long steep climb up a stone
staircase through the neatly terraced hillsides to the top of Ulleri
/ lower Banthanti.
Trek Profile: 5 hours walking / 12km / sleeping altitude 2,210m
Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 4 (Day 5 Ex London) ‐ Ghorepani‐Deurali
The trail winds its way onwards and enters rhododendron forest.
In spring the forest is ablaze of colour. Trains of mules provide
colourful and noisy interludes to the continuous ascent today
(there are many stone staircases). Carrying rice and other
supplies north to the kingdom of Mustang the trail resounds with
the sound of their bells. Finally we emerge from the forests at
Ghorepani and suddenly a splendid mountain vista appears
before us ‐ Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhare,
Lamjung and other Himalayan giants. We continue up through
Ghorepani to our lodge in Deurali (2858m), usually arriving by
lunch time.
Trek Profile: 4.5 hours walking / 10km / sleeping altitude
2,858m Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 5 (Day 6 Ex London) ‐ Sunrise at Poon Hill
All ascents, descents and distances listed below have been
measured by our local partners or tour leaders. Please note that
different GPS measuring devices can give differing results
dependent on the barometric pressures at
This morning there is an optional ascent of Poon Hill (3,210m ‐
about an hour's walk uphill) to see the spectacular sunrise over
the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himals. As the
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
sun emerges from behind the mountains the sky glows red and
pink in the first rays of the sun and the panorama is surely one of
the world's great mountain vistas. Best seen at dawn, the climb is
well worth the effort. After breakfast we head east, following a
ridge to cross a pass at 3,193m. We pass through more open
country then descend again through jungle to a few lodges in a
clearing called Ban Thanti at 2,620m. Climbing back to 2,745m,
we reach another small pass at Tadapani where we have a
superb view of Annapurna South and the peak of
Machhapuchhare. From here we descend for a short while to our
lodge at Chuili, where we have great views of the mountains
from the lovely garden.
Trek Profile: 7 hours walking / 20km / sleeping altitude 2,245m
Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 6 (Day 7 Ex London) ‐ Chhomrong
The trail descends through the forest to the Kyumnu Khola, a
tributary of the Modi Khola. From here a steep ascent brings us to
Chhomrong, at 2,170m, another Gurung village and the last
permanent settlement in the valley. Beyond here we shall see
yersas, the shelters used by herdsmen in the summer months.
From Chhomrong we have good views again of Annapurna South
and from this point onwards the twin‐peaked mountain
Machhapuchhare ('fishtail') which gives the mountain its name.
Trek Profile: 4.5‐5 hours walking / 8km / sleeping altitude
2,170m Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 7 (Day 8 Ex London) ‐ Dobhan
The trail from Chhomrong descends first on a stone staircase to
cross the Chhomrong Khola and then climbs on another stone
staircase out of this side valley to re‐enter the main Modi Khola
Valley. We pass through jungle of oak, hemlock and
rhododendron trees to Kuldi Ghar (2,540m), previously the site of
a sheep breeding project. Beyond here our route undulates
through dense bamboo thickets. These are cut extensively to
make 'dokos' ‐ the carrying baskets as used by our porters ‐ and
woven mats for floors and roofing. We climb up through the
bamboo, and then through forests of rhododendrons. In early
spring we may encounter snow on the trail from this point
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onwards. At 2,505m we reach Dobhan, a clearing in the forest
where there are several teahouses.
Trek Profile: 5‐6 hours walking / 10km / sleeping altitude
2,505m Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 8 (Day 9 Ex London) ‐ Machhapuchhare Base Camp
We continue up through the forest, passing the lodges at
Himalaya Hotel and then further on past Hinko Cave, where the
first expeditions to the Base Camp used to camp. Crossing a
ravine the trail climbs steeply among boulders, leaving the trees
behind us. The valley broadens out and the scenery becomes
wilder as we approach the gates of the sanctuary. Passing
between the heights of Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhare, we reach
Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3,700m), where we spend the
night. The views are stupendous and the panorama includes
Huinchuli, Annapurna 1, Annapurna 3, Gangapurna and
Machhapuchhare.
Trek Profile: 6 hours walking / 9km / sleeping altitude 3,700m
Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 9 (Day 10 Ex London) ‐ Annapurna Base Camp
In the early morning we walk for 2 hours up to Annapurna Base
Camp (4,130m), surrounded by the snow‐capped peaks of some
of the highest mountains in the world. Hiunchuli, Annapurna
South, Annapurna Fang, Annapurna 1 and 3, Gangapurna and
Machhapuchhare all encircle us with unbroken soaring ramparts
but for the route by which we entered. The sunset and sunrise
are truly magnificent in this mountain arena. We spend the day
in this special place with a chance to watch the sun rise the
following morning. There should be time to make an excursion to
the ridge overlooking the base camp from which Sir Chris
Bonington led the ascent of Annapurna's South Face.
(Occasionally there is too much snow to stay at Annapurna Base
Camp. In this case we would walk back down to Machhapuchhare
Base Camp in the late afternoon).
Trek Profile: 1.5‐2 hours walking / 3km / sleeping altitude
4,130m Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
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Day 10 (Day 11 Ex London) ‐ Descend to Bamboo
Day 15 (Day 16 Ex London) ‐ End Kathmandu
We leave the Sanctuary today and begin a long descent (around
1800m), past Hinko, through the rhododendron jungle and
bamboo thickets to Bamboo Lodge.
The trip ends after breakfast. Those on the group flight will be
transferred to the airport for the flight back to London. Those not
on the group flight will leave us after breakfast. (Breakfast)
Trek Profile: 6‐6.5 hours walking / 14km / sleeping altitude
2,310m Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
For those on group flights, these depart in the morning and will
arrive in the UK the same day.
Day 11 (Day 12 Ex London) ‐ Jhinnundanda
We return down the Modi Khola Valley, leaving it to cross the
Chomrong Khola. We are back in inhabited country again as we
climb the stone steps back up to Chomrong. We then descend
very steeply on stone steps through terraces to Jhinnudanda.
Close to Jhinnudanda there are some hotsprings that you can visit
if you wish; getting there involves descending for twenty minutes
or so down to the river, and the climb back up takes a little
longer (around 30 mins).
Trek Profile: 5 hours walking / 9km / sleeping altitude 1,780m
Basic Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 12 (Day 13 Ex London) ‐ Pokhara
A long day as we drop down to the Modi Khola River which we
follow all the way back to Birethanthi. In Nayapul, shortly beyond
Birethanti we pick up transport for the short drive to Pokhara
(around 1.5hrs), arriving late afternoon.
Trek Profile: 5.5 hours walking / 15km Standard Hotel
(Breakfast)
Day 13 (Day 14 Ex London) ‐ Fly to Kathmandu
We catch a late morning or early afternoon flight to
Kathmandu.The rest of the day is free for sightseeing and
shopping. (for those who choose not to fly, or if we are unable to
fly, we return to Kathmandu by road, arriving in the early
evening). Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 14 (Day 15 Ex London) ‐ Free day in Kathmandu
Today is free for sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may wish to visit
the monkey temple at Swayambunath, one of the largest
Buddhist Stupas in the world at Bodnath, or the most important
Hindu temple in the valley at Pashupatinath. We offer a full
range of sightseeing tours, which can be booked and paid for
locally. Please see the Optional Excursions section or the Exodus
notice board in the hotel in Kathmandu. Standard Hotel
(Breakfast)
We spend four nights in standard hotels and ten nights in
teahouses.
In Kathmandu we usually stay at the Royal Singi Hotel.
During the trek we stay in mountain lodges, often known as
teahouses. These are fairly basic but perfectly adequate as long
as you are realistic about what to expect in the mountains. The
hub of the teahouse is the dining room, usually decorated with
colourful traditional rugs, and with a stove to provide heat. The
bedrooms are now almost all twin share, except for nights 7 to
10, above Chhomrong where there is a limited choice of lodges
and rooms are basic multi‐share (usually 3 to 5 persons to a
room). Beds with foam mattresses are provided.
Some lodges now have showers (charged at £2‐£4 per shower)
and all have basic toilets. Bathrooms are usually shared; perhaps
only one or two toilets per lodge. Toilets are generally Asian
'squat' style, although many lodges have now installed 'western
style sit' toilets. Standards of cleanliness vary especially in the
main trekking season when the lodges are more than full, and in
winter at the higher lodges where the water can freeze at night.
In the last decade the quality of the lodges and the food has
improved significantly, but you should expect fairly basic
accommodation at the highest points of the trek.
On booking you will be sent our Information Sheet for Lodge
Based Treks, which will provide you with further details on the
lodges and their facilities.
Single Accommodation
Please let us know as early as possible if you would like a single
room for the four nights at the hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Single rooms are subject to availability and are allocated on a
first come first served basis ‐ a single supplement of from £90
(approx. US$120) is payable in advance of travel.
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
There is no single supplement available whilst on the trek itself as
availability cannot be guaranteed in the teahouses. If you would
like a single room on trek please ask your leader and if there is
one available, this can be arranged and paid for locally on a day
to day basis.
Extra Accommodation
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set menu should be ordered and paid for separately. Please allow
£15 ‐ £25 per day for other meals and drinks on trek and in
Kathmandu. We do not include lunch and dinner on trek allowing
you to choose what you want to eat and when. The menus in the
lodges are varied, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat to
pizza and apple pie. Please note that if you buy imported food
and drink whilst on trek you will spend more than the above
amount.
If you require any additional accommodation either before or
after the trip in Kathmandu, we can book this for you (subject to
availability), provided you notify us at the time of booking.
Transport
Key to Accommodation
For transfers we use a private minibus. The road conditions are
generally reasonable but you should be prepared for a few rough
sections.
We indicate in the itinerary what type of accommodation is
provided on each day. The descriptions are guidelines only and
are used to give an idea of the accommodation offered, rather
than an exact description.
Standard Hotel, Lodge or Gite ‐ reasonable quality standard
accommodation in single, twin or double rooms, the vast
majority with en suite facilities. Some properties have added
amenities such as Wi‐Fi, but facilities are generally simpler and
meet 2/3 star standards. These properties are chosen for their
value, location or character.
Basic Hotel ‐ could also be a Lodge, Teahouse, Gite, Mountain
Hut, Homestay or Village House. Facilities are often communal
and may be limited depending on location. North American and
Western Europe standards are often higher than Central or
Eastern Europe, or in destinations outside of Europe. Rooming
could be dorm with bunk beds, or one large shared sleeping area.
Bed linen is not always provided while running water, flushing
toilets and electricity may be inconsistent or non‐existent in the
remotest areas.
Food
Breakfast is included throughout the trip. On trek the breakfast
will be a set menu usually consisting of porridge and toast. Any
additional items that are not included in the
For the flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu we use the scheduled
services of one of the airlines operating within Nepal. If you wish
to transfer by road on the return journey, please let us know at
the time of booking.
Flying in Nepal
A domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is included in the
tour.
Many of our treks in Nepal use domestic flights to reach the
trekking areas. The mountainous terrain is often subject to
changeable weather which makes flying conditions complex. In
addition the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not
operate to the same standards as those of western nations. The
EU has recently chosen to highlight the relatively poor safety
record in Nepal, and as of December 2013 all Nepalese registered
airlines have been included on the EU 'Banned list' preventing
them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese‐registered
airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU have instigated this
ban to encourage the CAA of Nepal to tighten its systems
governing Nepalese aviation. Flying within Nepal is therefore a
known risk and the current travel advice issued by the UK Foreign
and Commonwealth Office provides an overview which we
encourage you to read.
In response to general concerns over this safety record, Exodus
asked independent air safety experts to visit Nepal on our behalf
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
to assess the suitability of the available carriers. Following these
comprehensive audits (undertaken in 2011, 2013 and 2015),
Exodus decided to restrict our use of airlines to only those
approved as part of the most recent audit. It remains our firm
policy to only use these approved carriers for our customers and
further audits will take place regularly. For emergency situations,
we also have an approved list of helicopter companies for our
use.
Exodus is supportive of the EU's move to put pressure on the CAA
of Nepal in this way. We are hopeful that, alongside our own risk
control measures, this will make a difference to all who fly in
Nepal. Please consider the information above when deciding to
book this holiday.
Page 5
up in the afternoons and there can be some rain. It is very hot in
the lowlands and temperatures rise to 30ºC in Kathmandu.
Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people
chose to trek in spring. The Annapurna region is famous for the
rhododendrons in spring. Snow can be expected in spring on the
way to and at the Base Camp.
Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never
wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to
deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions
described above.
16 days, normally depart London Fri, return Sat
Some departures operate on different days of the week; please
check the dates of your specific departure carefully.
Itinerary Start
The group flight from London is an overnight flight departing the
day before Day 1 of the itinerary.
Flights from London
We normally use the scheduled services of Jet Airways (depending
on availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly
we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your
agent to confirm up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may
change at a later date and cannot be confirmed until
approximately two weeks before departure.
Internal flights during the trip are with a local airline.
The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid‐May
when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally
comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and
rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures
will vary from 15ºC to 30ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around
10ºC at 3,600m and progressively lower the higher we go.
Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking. There
can be snow in Annapurna Base Camp at any time of year.
Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid September to November. This is the
main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu
are approximately above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days
on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Nights will
be colder with temperatures dropping as low as to minus 5ºC at
the higher altitudes.
UK Regional Flights
The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we
are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please
visit www.exodus.co.uk/regionaldepartures for a useful overview
of the options available, and contact our sales team for expert
advice.
If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow
a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international
check in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow;
this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is
known to be subject to delays.
Free Transfers
Winter: December to end February. Despite the colder conditions
this is an ideal time to trek in Nepal. Skies are usually very clear
especially in December and the mountain views are at their best.
Nights will be very cold with temperatures down to minus 10ºC at
Annapurna Base Camp but days are pleasant and sunny. The trails
are also much less busy at the time of year. In Kathmandu
maximum daytime temperatures are 19ºC.
Pre‐monsoon: March to May. Both day and night temperatures
will be warmer in general but haze will often build
Exodus offers free airport arrival and departure transfers on any
flight for this trip: please see the Free Transfers section below for
more details.
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
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15 days, normally start Kathmandu Sat, end Kathmandu Sat
We have an excellent long‐term relationship with our local
partner who employs all our local leaders. We train our leaders
with a focus on Responsible Tourism, so they can educate our
clients locally on helping to preserve the way of life in their area.
Itinerary Start
For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit:
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Kathmandu in
the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach
the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent
approximately two weeks before departure.
www.exodus.co.uk/responsible‐travel
Free Transfers
Exodus offers FREE airport arrival and departure transfers on any
flight for this trip, so no matter which flight you choose to arrive
on you will be met and transferred to your hotel. All those taking
advantage of the free airport transfers must provide full flight
details for both arrival and departure in advance; unless
specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the Exodus start (or
pre‐tour) hotel; transfers to other hotels in the same city may
attract an extra charge; transfers may be shared with other
Exodus customers on the same flight, or on a flight with similar
arrival times.
The cost of a taxi is likely to be about £6/$10 should you decide
to make your way independently.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will
be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do
not receive these at least a week before departure, or require
them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Exodus Himalayan Community Support Projects in Nepal:
We are very proud of our environmental projects. We have
installed over 50 solar cookers in the Everest region. In most of
the lodges we use, these solar cookers help to continually boil
and sterilise the water meaning there is no need to buy plastic
water bottles that cannot be easily recycled in Nepal. We also
donated 139 smokeless stoves to Thulopatel village and 49 to
Nalbung village to provide a safer and healthier means of
cooking, which helps prevent eye and lung problems women used
to experience because of the smoky fire. We have helped supply
water and hydro power to several villages.
Nepal Earthquake:
Following the Nepal earthquake in the spring of 2015, Exodus set
up an emergency fundraising appeal. The generosity of our
clients and friends has been overwhelming as donations far
surpassed our expectations and reached approx. £278,000
(including Gift Aid). For more information regarding our relief
efforts and longer term response to the earthquake, or to
donate, please see here: http://www.exodus.co.uk/nepal‐
earthquake‐news
Elephant Rides:
Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing
income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to
protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to
responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan
and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company.
Exodus have a policy of not including elephant rides in any of our
itineraries. We have a very strict animal welfare policy and after
in‐depth research and discussion it was decided that this is a type
of animal interaction that we no longer wish to endorse. For a
more detailed insight into our rationale behind this decision and
for why we hope you would also choose not to ride an elephant,
please see the below link:
https://www.exodus.co.uk/responsible‐travel/elephant‐riding
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
We ask that you use environmentally sound practices whilst in
Nepal:
The lack of recycling facilities in Nepal is a major issue ‐ namely
when it comes to plastic bottles which are either landfilled or
burnt, releasing toxic fumes into the atmosphere. Whilst we must
stay hydrated, it is also vital not to add to the waste problem. We
ask that you try not to buy bottled mineral water and use a re‐
fillable bottle (e.g. Sigg or Nalgene type bottles) instead. In the
tea‐houses you can buy boiled water or treat non boiled water,
plus in some villages along this trekking route there are safe
drinking water stations where you can buy UV filtered water.
Please note that mineral water is banned above Chomro on this
trek and you must either treat water or buy boiled water. It's
useful to bring two water bottles with you so that you can
alternate them ‐ allowing one to cool ready to drink, and having
the other available to re‐fill with boiled water (which can also
double up as a hot water bottle at night)!
Page 7
which, after inserting your passport, automatically fill out a form
for you). You must firstly join the queue to pay the visa fee, and
then go to the relevant immigration desk to obtain your 15, 30 or
90 day visa stamp. There can be long queues for visas on arrival.
Non UK nationals should check requirements with their nearest
embassy (a few nationalities are not permitted visas on arrival).
Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the
current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is
required.
Vaccinations and Health
Travel health can often be something people forget about before
going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long
way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for this trip.
Please do not take any unnecessary packaging into the
mountains. We ask that each trekker keep a rubbish bag for non‐
burnable rubbish and take it back to Kathmandu or the UK where
it can be disposed of properly. Please bring bio degradable soaps
and shampoos so as not to pollute water sources and rivers.
Please note that many Nepalis are still traditional in the way they
dress. Out of respect for the country we ask you to dress
conservatively ‐ no sleeveless tops. Although shorts are
acceptable out in the hills, they should be very modest and reach
the knees and for women a skirt or trousers are preferable.
Temples and monasteries are places of worship. Please be
respectful when visiting them and whilst taking photographs. Your
leader will brief you on appropriate local behaviour.
Passports and Visas
All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6
months beyond the intended length of stay. It is your
responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to
obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the
regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below
is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities
should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies.
We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and
customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and
any subsequent effects.
Most nationalities require a visa for Nepal, which can be
obtained in advance or on entry. If you wish to apply before
departure the current visa cost is £20 for a 15 day visa and £35
for a 30 day visa for UK passport holders. The current cost of a
visa on arrival is US$25 for 15 days, US$40 for 30 days or if
extending your stay $100 for 90 days. All are multiple entry. The
visa on arrival fee can be paid for in cash in US Dollars, Pounds
Sterling or Euros. You will also need two passport photos.
Application forms are available in the immigration hall (or for
electronic passports there are visa registration machines
Recommended vaccinations for this trip are: Polio, Tetanus,
Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A.
Dengue fever and/or Chikungunya are known risks in places
visited on this trip. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by
daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or
prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of
prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the
usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
There is low to no risk of Malaria throughout Nepal and
antimalarial tablets are not usually advised, especially if your
visit is confined to Kathmandu and the mountains. Malaria is
present in pockets of the low lying 'terai' districts bordering India
(including Chitwan) but the risk is still considered low and
antimalarial tablets are not usually advised but may be
considered for higher risk groups.
The above information can change at short notice; as we are not
qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we
strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a
Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up‐to‐
date information.
Altitude Warning
This trip includes one or more nights over 3500m above sea level,
where there is a genuine risk of being affected by Acute Mountain
Sickness (AMS). If left untreated AMS can be life‐threatening. We
expect most clients to experience some mild symptoms of
altitude sickness, such as headaches and shortness of breath
while walking or sleeplessness. Our leaders are trained to identify
symptoms of severe AMS and if a client requires extra care,
arrangements such as rapid descent will be made immediately.
On some days this trip climbs faster than commonly published
ascent rate recommendations. Based upon an assessment by our
external safety and medical advisors and our risk assessment
process, we consider the ascent rate is acceptable due to the
additional safety measures that are in place for our customers.
All our trips operating at high altitude meet our
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
internal altitude safety standards that minimise the risk of serious
incidents occurring whilst travelling at altitude.
A number of medical conditions or medications can reduce your
body's ability to acclimatise. This may affect your performance
and make you more susceptible to AMS. If you are worried about
any pre‐existing conditions, such as heart conditions, or your
overall physical ability, you must seek medical advice prior to
booking. The drug Diamox (also known as acetazolamide and
normally only available on prescription) has been shown to aid
acclimatisation in some individuals, and therefore may reduce
the risk of AMS. Clients considering using Diamox should speak to
their doctor about the drug, its side‐effects and a prescription.
Please note that while we endeavour to assist all our clients in
achieving their goals, there may be times when your leader
decides to delay or stop your ascent based on your overall
condition, or the onset of AMS.
If you are not taking out Exodus Travel Insurance, make sure that
your policy covers you up to the maximum altitude on this trip (if
trekking in the Himalaya your policy should also cover the use of
a helicopter for emergency medical evacuation).
Insurance ‐ are you adequately covered?
You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining
a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are
covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are
resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel
insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on
your trip.
Local Time
GMT + 5 hours 45 minutes.
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Solo Departures
We have chosen one or two departure dates on a selection of our
most popular trips which are specifically recommended for clients
travelling on their own. However, we do not exclude couples or
friends travelling together from these departures, so we do not
guarantee that the group will be entirely made up of solo
passengers.
Dates of Solo Departures can be found on our website. For
further details please visit: www.exodus.co.uk/solodepartures.
Currency Information
The national currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR), with
an exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 140
to the UK£ and 100 to the US$.
Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.
It is illegal to import or export rupees, but foreign currency is not
limited, provided it is declared on arrival.
We recommend taking your personal spending money in cash
(dollars, sterling or euros can all be changed easily). Please note
£50 notes or any Scottish or Irish Currency cannot be changed in
Nepal. Cash can be changed easily at the airport on arrival in
Kathmandu or at the hotel in Kathmandu. Please note that
travellers cheques can NOT be exchanged in Nepal. Our staff will
advise you about how much money to take with you on the trek.
Keep your change receipts, as you will need them if you want to
change rupees back into hard currency at Kathmandu airport.
Electricity
ATM availability/Credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques
230V 50Hz. Some of the lodges now have electricity and charging
facilities for batteries. The cost is approx £2 (US$3.50) per hour
to charge.
Group, Staff and Support
The group will generally be between 4 and 16 people. There will
be a local leader and drivers and local guides where needed.
Groups of seven or more will have an Exodus trained Nepali
leader. Smaller groups will be led by a highly competent English
speaking Nepali Sirdar. All leaders and sirdars are assisted by
additional guides and as many porters as necessary to carry all
the equipment. All your main gear is carried for you and you only
have to carry whatever you require for that day's trek.
We also have representatives at our hotel in Kathmandu who will
look after your transfers to and from the airport and will be on
hand to answer other questions you may have about your trek.
The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note
that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share
accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian.
There are ATM machines in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Please do
not rely wholly on ATM machines as many are broken or have run
out of money and all have a limit of less than £100 which you can
withdraw at any one time. If you are on the group flight you will
only have 1 night in Kathmandu before leaving for trek and it is
difficult to withdraw all the money you need for the trek through
ATM's. We recommend you bring most of your money for the trek
in cash and change it at the hotel or airport.
Credit cards are also accepted in many of the larger shops and
restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Extra Expenses and Spending Money
As there are local lodges/teahouses along the entire trekking
route it is possible to buy things such as beer, cold drinks and
chocolate. If you buy these you should expect to spend a few
pounds extra each day.
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group
sizes)
We have various sightseeing tours on offer to make the most of
your free time in Kathmandu. Prices for a half day sightseeing
tour start at £25 per person, based on a group of 6 and above.
For all trips we include transport there and back and a qualified
sightseeing guide. The cost does not include lunch or entry fees.
More details of the tours and entry fees are in the Kathmandu
information booklet you will be given on arrival in Kathmandu
and on the notice board in the hotel in Kathmandu. Bookings are
made in Kathmandu with your leader.
An optional Everest sightseeing flight is available locally in
Kathmandu. The cost and timings of this tour is provided locally
by your leader. Anyone taking any internal sightseeing flight in
Nepal should pay particular attention to the statement titled
'Flying in Nepal' in these Trip Notes.
Tipping (leader and local staff)
Tipping is very much part of the culture in Nepal and is usually
expected. Tipping can often be an awkward affair, especially
when in an unfamiliar country where you are not sure when or
how much to tip. As such, your tour leader will usually offer to
arrange and look after a group tipping kitty which will be used to
tip porters in hotels, local guides, assistant guides, porters, and
the drivers. Your leader will suggest how much to contribute,
depending on group size, but it is usually in the region of £35
(approx. US$55) per person.
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Waterproof walking boots (worn in)
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Gaiters for winter and spring departures
Trainers/sandals for the evening
Warm hat
Scarf/Buff
Gloves
Several pairs of walking socks
Thermals
Warm mid layer (fleece)
Light ‐ mid weight trousers (warmer for winter)
Walking shorts or a skirt for women
Shirts/t‐shirts or base layers
Sunhat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen and lip salve with sun protection
Daypack
Small personal first aid kit
Toilet paper
Towel
Head torch
Water bottle (minimum 1 litre)
Plastic bags (bin liners) to line daypack and for packing clothing in
the kitbag
If while packing you find a spare bit of space in your bag please
be sure to check out our partner 'Pack for a Purpose' to identify
items that are needed locally by schools and medical clinics. Your
Tour Leader can assist with donating the items.
http://www.packforapurpose.org/
Optional items
Our local leaders are paid well and fairly for their work with
Exodus. However, to show appreciation to your tour leader a tip
of around £10‐£20 per person for the tour (depending on group
size) would be appreciated. Tipping is at your own discretion.
Based on the above distributions, you should allow approximately
£45‐55 per person in total for all tips for the tour duration.
By definition, gratuities are not something that can be included
in the tour price.
Essential Equipment and Clothing
Below is a suggestion of what you might find useful on this trip. It
is NOT an exhaustive list and should be read in conjunction with
our 'What to Pack' section in the General Information booklet
(sent on booking). Please note that many Nepalis are still
traditional in the way they dress so we suggest you dress
conservatively. T shirts are preferable to sleeveless tops and it is
not advisable to wear tight or revealing clothing. Although long
shorts are acceptable, we recommend a skirt for women rather
than shorts for the trek.
2 passport photos for your trekking permit (plus another two if
getting your visa on arrival)
3/4 season sleeping bag (4 season for November/December
departures)
3/4 season jacket (4 season for November/December departures)
Biodegradable soap/shampoo
Water purification tablets
Hand washing gel
Trekking pole(s) ‐ highly reccomended due to the numbers of
steps encountered on this trek
Yaktrax or mini‐crampons
Although Annapurna Base Camp is mostly clear of snow and ice,
there can be snow on spring departures. The snow can make
trails slippery. If you are unsure of your footing you may like to
carry a pair of Microspikes, Yaktrax or similar with you just in
case on winter/spring departures. If there is unseasonal snowfall
your leader will advise you to carry a pair of yaktrax. It is possible
to buy these in Kathmandu.
Please that the weight allowance on the flight from Pokhara to
Kathmandu is 15kg checked in baggage and 5kg for hand baggage
and any excess is chargeable. Luggage not required for the trek
can be left at the hotel in Kathmandu free of charge.
Duvet jackets and sleeping bags are available for hire from Trek
Hire UK (http://www.trekhireuk.com/). Trek Hire UK can also
provide a range of trekking essentials and accessories, from
rucksacks to trekking poles. Please note that supplies are limited,
and it is advisable to reserve any equipment as early as possible.
For trips to Kilimanjaro, Nepal and Peru, certain items such as
duvet jackets (not available in Peru), sleeping bags and thick
mattresses (not available in Nepal / provided free of charge on
all Peru trips) can be hired through our local agents. Equipment
hire for Nepal and Kilimanjaro must be pre‐booked through
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
the Exodus office to ensure availability, whereas hire for Peru is
arranged and paid for locally through your tour leader in Cuzco
(and cannot be booked in advance). Please call for details.
Baggage and Baggage Allowance
If you book this trip, we provide an Exodus kitbag to pack your
luggage in whilst on trek. If you book via an agent, it is at the
agent's discretion and you should speak directly to them to
arrange delivery. Please note that if you book less than three
weeks before the departure date we cannot guarantee that your
kitbag will arrive before your trip starts, so if this is the case
please contact us on [email protected] to let us know. For
full T&Cs see www.exodus.co.uk/kitbags.
At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on
the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We
recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage.
Internal flights in the destination country are subject to a weight
limit of 15kg.
As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold
luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check the airline's
website for the latest information prior to your departure.
Maps
Nepa Maps: Annapurna Base Camp
Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can
view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write‐ups
which have featured in the national media and take advantage
of some special deals on travel gear and equipment.
In the Community Travel Forum you'll find the Departure Lounge
where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you
depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to
upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This
helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll
be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition.
To make full use of the Community you'll need to join My Exodus.
It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting
for?
http://www.exodus.co.uk/community
In booking this trip you should be confident in your ability to
participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you
have any doubt about your suitability you should call the Exodus
office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
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Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different
capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone's ability to
safely partake in an activity, or their impact on other people's
enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in
some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that
activity.
Although rarely enforced, by booking this trip you agree to
section 16 of our Booking Conditions which clearly states that our
leaders have the authority to do this. In these circumstances we
will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered
alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided
for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional
costs incurred.
Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which
can be contacted on 0044 (0)1582 640 045.
Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to
read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or
at www.exodus.co.uk/about‐exodus/essential‐information?
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and
details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you
approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not
receive these at least a week before departure, or require them
earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where
differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current
brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and
website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in
order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where
necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be
possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a
variety of reasons ‐ climatic, political, physical or other. In these
circumstances we will make the best possible alternative
arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and
airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder
than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we
endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily
fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of
date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of
our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice
Service advises British tourists on the potential dangers they
might experience when travelling overseas. We liaise closely with
them and adhere to their travel advice. For up‐to‐date advice on
all countries, please visit www.gov.uk/foreign‐travel‐advice.
Should there be any change to advice prior to or during travel,
we may have to cancel or curtail a tour at short notice, or re‐
route an itinerary part way through.
Please note, although this trip doesn't visit any FCO no‐go areas,
it does visit a region close to an area where the advice is not to
travel. If joining this trip, or if planning any additional travel pre
or post tour in the area, you should ensure you visit their website
to familiarise yourself with the advice. Any independent
Nepal • Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
travel to these areas is entirely at your own risk and is likely not
to be covered by your insurance.
Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of
publication. The most up‐to‐date prices can be found on the
Exodus website.
© Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO
1. Check availability
Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
2. Secure your place
You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for
between three and seven days.
3. Complete your booking and payment
When you're ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online
booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking
form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all
major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book
with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour
operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number
2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association
(IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators
(FTO) and ABTA ‐ The Travel Association. This means you can
book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to
us for your trip are fully protected.
Edition No. JC 02 2016
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