Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: Luxury & Comfort Before and After Your Trek

Our Annapurna Sanctuary Trek offers the perfect blend of adventure and luxury, featuring three nights in Kathmandu and one night in Pokhara at carefully selected 4- or 5-star hotels. We understand that quality accommodations are essential, so we ensure cleanliness, prime locations, and excellent value for your money. Our luxury hotels provide modern amenities, exceptional service, and a peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to relax before and after your trek. Choose from two packages: the 4-Star Hotel Package (starting at $1400 per person) for a comfortable stay or the 5-Star Hotel Package (starting at $1700 per person) for a more refined, high-end experience. After your trek, unwind with a spa treatment at a 5-star hotel or enjoy the serene ambiance of a tranquil garden resort. Both packages guarantee premium accommodations that prioritize comfort, hygiene, and safety. No matter which option you select, you’ll experience the best hospitality, ensuring a smooth and worry-free stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Comfortable Lodging for an Unforgettable Adventure

During your trek, you will stay in the best available mountain lodges for a total of nine nights, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience. Cozy rooms with shared bathroom facilities are standard, but in Ulleri, Ghorepani, Chhomrong, and Jhinu Danda, you will enjoy the added convenience of attached bathrooms. Most lodges offer hot showers, except in higher-altitude areas like Deurali and Annapurna Base Camp, where resources are limited. Due to high demand, especially in peak seasons, you may need to share a room in certain locations, but we make every effort to secure private accommodations in advance. Each lodge provides beds with mattresses, pillows, and blankets, ensuring a restful night after a day of trekking. Heated communal areas serve as dining and relaxation spaces, fostering a warm, friendly atmosphere where trekkers can connect and share their experiences. Your comfort is our priority, and we ensure the best possible lodging throughout your adventure.

Delicious & Nutritious Meals on Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

During your trek, you’ll enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious meals designed to keep you energized. Breakfast includes hot drinks like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, along with eggs, toast, pancakes, porridge, or traditional Tibetan bread. For lunch, savor Nepali Dal Bhat—a hearty meal of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry—or choose from pasta, noodles, fried rice, potatoes, or Mo.Mo dumplings. Dinners offer comforting soups, Dal Bhat Tarkari, or options like pasta, mashed potatoes with cheese, or stir-fried vegetables. Unlike most companies, Mountain Sherpa Trekking gives you complete freedom to choose any meal from the lodge menu. Your meals are included in the trip price, ensuring you never have to worry about extra costs. We prioritize quality, hygiene, and nutrition, so every meal is both satisfying and safe. With Mountain Sherpa Trekking, you’ll experience exceptional hospitality and the best food available on the trail.

Sustainable Drinking Water on the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: Stay Hydrated, Protect the Himalayas

Plastic waste is a major threat to the pristine beauty of the Annapurna region, with trekkers leaving behind thousands of non-biodegradable bottles every year. As a responsible Sherpa company, we urge our trekkers to adopt eco-friendly hydration methods. A water filter bottle is the best choice, providing safe drinking water while eliminating plastic waste. Boiled water, available at lodges for around $50–$70 for the entire trek, is another excellent alternative. Purification tablets offer a lightweight, cost-effective solution but require time to work effectively.

By making sustainable choices, you ensure safe hydration while preserving the Himalayas for generations to come. Let’s trek responsibly and leave no trace!

Airport Pickup by Private Vehicle:

We understand the importance of hassle-free travel, and to ensure a smooth experience, we always provide timely airport pickup service. Upon your arrival at the international airport in Kathmandu, our dedicated guide and driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall. They will be easily recognizable, as our guide will be holding a welcome banner displaying your name and our company name, Mountain Sherpa Trekking & Expedition.

Once you have collected your luggage and proceed to the exit, our guide and driver will be there to greet you and assist you throughout the journey. They will escort you to a comfortable vehicle that we have arranged for your transportation. With your correct international flight details provided to us, our team will be well-prepared to receive you promptly.

By choosing to book your trip with us, you can enjoy a safe and convenient ride to your hotel without any stress or inconvenience. Our priority is to ensure your comfort and peace of mind from the moment you arrive in Kathmandu.

Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu Flight:

Our Annapurna Sanctuary trek includes scenic flights both ways from Kathmandu to Pokhara and vice versa. While the distance between these two cities may not be significant (only 126 miles / 204 km), the Nepali landscape and road conditions can make the drive quite long and challenging. To ensure a comfortable and time-efficient journey, we highly recommend opting for the scenic flights.

Flying is by far the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara, especially if you have limited time. Multiple flights operate daily from the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan Airport, and the flight duration is approximately 25 minutes. The flight offers breathtaking views, particularly on the right-hand side of the plane, where you can witness the majestic Himalayas. By choosing to fly, you will arrive in Pokhara feeling refreshed and with ample time to engage in activities on the same day, which may not be feasible with an overland trip.

Pokhara, often referred to as the "City of Lakes," is a charming destination known for its stunning natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of 827 meters above sea level and located 200 km west of Kathmandu, Pokhara offers mesmerizing panoramic views of the Fishtail Mountain and the majestic Himalayan ranges.

The city is home to several beautiful lakes, including Phewa Lake, Begnas Lake, and Rupa Lake, adding to its allure. Pokhara also boasts attractions such as the World Peace Pagoda, Sarangkot, Davi's Fall, Mahendra Cave, and various museums. Additionally, you can enjoy sightseeing opportunities and explore the heritage sites, with the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu ranges providing a magnificent backdrop.

With its natural splendor and abundant tourist attractions, Pokhara has become a highly sought-after destination in Nepal.

Pokhara to Tikhedhunga By Private Transfer

We meet our Sherpa crew at Pokhara Airport then you will transfer to Tikhedhunga by Private Jeep. Which are approximately 2:30 to 3 hours drive from Pokhara, from where we'll begin the first steps of our trek. From Pokhara, we travel by a private vehicle northwest along the Baglung Rajmarg Road. This scenic drive, which climbs in altitude and is windy in places, transports many trekkers in the Annapurna area to the beginning points of their trek.

Although most of the trekkers began from Nayapul, we highly advise you to drive up to Tikhedhunga and start your first-day trek because you won't have pleasure hiking firstly due to dusty roads. We are always committed to offering you quality private vehicle service for any trip in Nepal. The benefit of taking a private vehicle is that you can ask the driver to stop whenever you like and smaller vehicles tend to be able to move through the traffic a little faster than larger buses. Private vehicles come with their own driver.

Syauli Bhatti to Pokhara by Private Jeep

Upon your arrival at Pokhara Airport, you will have the opportunity to meet our experienced Sherpa crew. From there, we will transfer you to Tikhedhunga via a comfortable private jeep. The journey takes approximately 2:30 to 3 hours and serves as the starting point for our trek.

Leaving Pokhara, we will travel northwest along the Baglung Rajmarg Road in the private vehicle. This scenic drive, characterized by altitude gains and winding roads, is a common means of transportation for trekkers heading to various starting points in the Annapurna region.

While many trekkers typically begin their trek from Nayapul, we highly recommend driving up to Tikhedhunga to commence the first day of your trek. This allows you to avoid hiking on dusty roads initially and ensures a more enjoyable hiking experience. At Mountain Sherpa Trekking, we are committed to providing you with quality private vehicle services for your journeys in Nepal. Opting for a private vehicle offers the advantage of flexibility, allowing you to request stops at your convenience. Additionally, smaller vehicles often navigate through traffic more efficiently than larger buses. Rest assured, our private vehicles come with experienced drivers who will ensure a safe and comfortable journey for you.

Nepal Visa:

Here is some important information about obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal:

1. Visa on Arrival: Most visitors can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various land border crossings in Nepal.
2. Application Form: You will need to fill out a visa application form at the airport or border entry point. The form is available at the visa counter or can be downloaded in advance from the official website of the Department of Immigration of Nepal. click here for online visa form.
3. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Nepal.
4. Visa Fee: The visa fee varies depending on the duration of stay. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the fee for a 15-day tourist visa is USD 30, a 30-day visa is USD 50, and a 90-day visa is USD 125. The fee can be paid in cash (USD or equivalent) or by credit card.
5. Passport Size Photo: You will need two passport-sized photos for your visa application.
6. Visa Extension: If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal beyond the initial visa duration, you can apply for a visa extension at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or at the Immigration Office in Pokhara.
7. Multiple Entry Visa: Tourist visas are generally issued as multiple entry visas, allowing you to exit and re-enter Nepal within the visa validity period.

Please note that visa regulations and fees may change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information on the official website of the Department of Immigration of Nepal or consult with your local Nepalese embassy or consulate before your trip.

Travel insurance:

Travel insurance is not only necessary for any trip but especially important when engaging in activities like high-altitude trekking in remote regions where access to medical facilities may be limited. Having the right insurance coverage in place provides peace of mind and ensures that you can fully enjoy your adventure, knowing that you are protected in case of unforeseen events. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, interruptions, delays, lost luggage, or even a helicopter rescue, travel insurance offers financial security and support.

We strongly recommend obtaining travel insurance before embarking on your journey. This way, in the rare event that something does occur, you won't be burdened with significant financial expenses. At Mountain Sherpa Trekking, we will provide you with a letter and invoice to submit to your insurance company, expediting the processing of your claim, if needed.

To learn more about the importance of travel insurance and to find comprehensive coverage, please visit the link below. Ensuring you have the appropriate insurance coverage will allow you to focus on your trekking experience with peace of mind.

Nepal Travel insurance

Packing List Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. The packed weight of your kit bag while trekking should be no more than 15 KG/33 lbs. Please note that this gear list is only a guide. These are the basics to bring, but you can choose your preferred brands based on your expertise. Additionally, you can shop for trekking gear and clothing at a good price at stores in Thamel, Kathmandu.

YOU MUST BRING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

Upper Body - Head / Ears / Eyes

1. Sun hat
2. Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
3. Wool or synthetic hat that covers the ears
4. Sunglasses with UV protection
5. Neck gaiter or bandana (for sun protection)
6. Face Masks
7. Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose, etc.)

Hand

1. Fleece/Wool Gloves
2. Glove Liners
3. Heavier shell glove

Core Body

1. Base layer shirts
2. Moisture-wicking long-sleeve t-shirts (1)
3. Moisture-wicking short-sleeve t-shirt (optional)
4. Fleece jacket or warm windproof jacket with hood
5. Synthetic sports bras (for women)
6. Insulated Warm jacket
7. Underwear (4-5 pairs)
8. Sleeping bag (comfort rated –10ºC)*

Lower Body – Legs

1. Hiking Pants (Convertible, Quick-Dry, Lightweight) 1-2
2. Warm hiking pants with waterproof Windproof and breathable
3. Rain Pants (Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)- optional
4. Gaiters (needed Dec-Feb)
5. Long underwear

Feet

1. Hiking boots with ankle support recommend
2. Camp shoes or tennis shoes for lodge
3. Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool) 5-7 pairs recommended

Food & Snacks

• Snacks (combine protein & carbs for well-balanced energy)
• Thermos (optional for hot beverages)
• Re-hydration gels or powder

Toiletries

1. Sunscreen, Lip balm with sunscreen
2. Toilet Paper
3. Soap
4. Deodorant
5. Toothbrush/toothpaste
6. Razor (as needed)
7. Shampoo
8. Wet wipes
9. Hand sanitizer
10. Feminine hygiene products (as needed)
11. Face lotion
12. Hairbrush
13. Hair ties

Other necessary important items:

• Passport and extra passport size photos (2-4 copies)
• Visa (these are easy to attain when you land in Kathmandu—bring $30 (15 Days) or $50 (30 Days) USD for Visa Application
• Money ($200-300 cash is suggested—while there are occasional ATMs on the trail, they are almost always out of order)
• Travel insurance- most recommended
• Airline tickets (Please make a copy and leave one at our office in KTM just in case if you need to change the date of yours)
• Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport
• Water bottles 1 Liter x 2 (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single-use plastic)
• Water purification Iodine tablets
• Toilet paper (you can buy this in the lodges
• Travel towel
• Small padlock (to lock your kit bag)
• Antibacterial handwash

Additional Supplies

1. Portable solar charger/power bank
2. Book
3. Journal/pen
4. Playing cards

Basic First Aid Kit including antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhea treatment (Imodium), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets are also a good idea.

THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE OPTIONAL:

1. Trekking poles – if you don't have poles, We can provide you complimentary trekking.
2. Sleeping bag liner
3. Pillowcase, Scarf, or buff
4. Swimwear (for the hotel pool in Kathmandu)
5. Earplugs (particularly if you are not the one snoring)
6. Travel clothes
7. Camera
8. Pen-knife (remember to pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
9. Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)
10. Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Note: The Nepalese people are still traditional and conservative in their dress. Therefore, to avoid discomfort for both sides, we advise you to respect this and refrain from wearing revealing clothing or sleeveless tops while visiting Nepal. Shorts are acceptable, but they should reach just above the knee and be modest. For women, it is better to wear trousers or a long skirt.

Additional info: As you pack for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, keep in mind that your gear will be divided into two packs: your daypack, which you will carry each day during the trek, and your duffle bag, which will be carried between tea houses by porters. Any additional baggage (non-trekking items) can be stored at the hotel before you start your trek. We provide a free duffel bag in Kathmandu for you to pack your essential trekking equipment. One porter will be assigned to two people, and they will carry up to 25 kg-30 kg or 55-66 pounds of your personal items, including your sleeping bag and down jacket. Therefore, your duffel bag should not weigh more than 12 kg-15 kg or 26 pounds to 33 pounds.

INSIDE YOUR DAYPACK: Daypacks can be of any size for hiking, but we always recommend smaller sizes for the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. Around 25L to 30L is a good size. You should carry your own backpack (with a waterproof cover) to hold your daily essentials. These may include a water bottle, extra money for drinks, souvenirs, and tips, a sunhat, a camera, important documents, toiletries, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, rain gear, and your music player (iPhone), etc.

If you don't have your own down jacket and sleeping bag, don't worry. We will provide you with a 4-season sleeping bag and a good down jacket with a hood for complimentary use. High-quality sleeping bags and down jackets are essential for a high altitude trek.