This 13 day Annapurna Trek & Chitwan Jungle Safari takes you to two very popular destinations in Nepal. The first destination is into the Himalayan Mountains in the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail will take you to Poon Hill, well known for its spectacular mountain views over numerous snow-covered mountains at sunrise. The second part of this trek is to the famous Chitwan National Park, home to more than 50 mammals, 600 plant species, 526 birds, 49 amphibians and reptiles. It is one of the most visited national parks in Nepal. The highlights of this visit will be to see Royal Bengal tigers and the Asian one-horned rhinoceros living in the dense forests of the park. There are numerous other animals in the park, such as the rhesus monkey, leopards, grey Langur, deer, wild boar, and wild dogs.
This Annapurna trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal and can be completed by anyone with a normal level of fitness. The impressive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges are visible right before your eyes. The distinct and easily recognized Dhaulagiri (world’s 7th highest at 8167m), Annapurna 1 (world’s 10th highest at 8091m), Annapurna South , Machapuchare (6993m), Tharpu Chuli (5663m), Singu Chuli (6501m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and South Annapurna (7219m) will leave you in awe due to their immense size.
Your journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and on to Nayapul where we begin our trek while looking down to the Modi Khola River below and across terraced rice fields above. Our next destination is Tikhedhunga (1570m) with views of snow-clad peaks. The following day we follow the trail along the banks of the Modi Khola to Birethanti and on to Ghorepani where you will have time to explore this mountainous town and appreciate their unique culture.
The second part of this adventure is to Chitwan National Park which is full of thrills and excitement. An elephant safari through the jungle is the perfect way to observe the wildlife. The second exciting event is a canoe ride down the Rapti River where you can see crocodiles and other aquatic species. Finally, a visit to the only elephant breeding center in Asia will be a real touching experience as you watch mothers nurture their young.
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking have an excellent reputation with more than 40 years arranging treks and expeditions in the Himalayan Mountains and will take care of every detail, including permits, meals and accommodation.
A representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will be there to greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel, followed by a briefing that provides information about the trek and trip to Chitwan National Park. Your safety and comfort are top of our agenda.
Day 02 : Guided Sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley.
Most of today will be spent sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley with our guide. We will visit Pashupatinath, which is the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and where pilgrims worship Lord Shiva (situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then we head to Swayambhunath known as the Monkey Temple. From Swayambhunath we will drive to Kathmandu’s famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, and situated just in front of the old royal palace. After arriving back at your hotel you may have time to do some last-minute shopping around Thamel – the tourist center of Kathmandu.
Day 03 : Drive to Pokhara (850 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
This morning we leave Kathmandu and have a 6-7 hour drive to the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake). We then check in to your hotel near to Phewa Tal. There is loads to see and do along Lakeside with its numerous shops, bars, and restaurants.
Day 04 : Drive to Nayapul & trek to Tikhedhunga (1480m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trekking begins at Nayapul and on the trail, you will pass through several small settlements and will likely see donkeys and mules carrying heavy loads to these remote mountainous regions. The trail joins the main trail at Birethanti Village at which point we head west along the main trail - an ancient Trans-Himalayan trade route. We then continue on to Tikhedhunga for the night.
Day 05 : Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2750m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Starting out on the trail today we have a steep climb up to Ulleri (2070m) and then to the Magar village of Banthanti from where we have some wonderful views of Mt. Machapuchare (6997m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and Annapurna South (7219m). We then follow the trail through a lush white/red/pink - flowering rhododendron forest and cross a bridge before arriving at the village of Ghorepani where we can see a number of massive peaks, such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna that appear as a backdrop. This is an excellent place to sit back and take in the wonderful mountain views. We will stay here overnight.
Day 06 : Hike up to Poonhill viewpoint (3210m) & trek to Tadapani (2710 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Poon Hill is famous for its spectacular views of the Annapurna Ranges – especially at sunrise and sunset. An early start before sunrise will have us reach the Poon Hill viewpoint where we can witness the changing colors reflecting off the mountains, such as Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7855m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (729m), Nilgiri (6940m), Tukuche (6920m), Varaha Shikhar (7847m) & Lamjung Himal (6931m). Be sure to have your camera batteries charged as you watch the changing scene in the morning light. We then head back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue along the trail to Tadapani Village via Deurali Village (meaning ridge in Nepali) until we arrive at Tadapani.
Day 07 : Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk ( 1,950m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today’s trail takes us through forests of oak, rhododendron, and other alpine flowers as we head to Ghandruk. Stunning views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Machapuchare, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli and other Mountains can be seen from Ghandruk, a village mainly inhabited by Gurung. This is the second-largest Gurung village in Nepal and has a cultural museum, dance program, and Buddhist monastery.
Day 08 : Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today is the last day of the trek as we head along a stony trail surrounded by terraced cultivated fields of rice and millet. The trail takes us down to the Modi Khola (river) and a few hours later we will reach Birethanti Village from where we will drive to Pokhara.
Day 09 : Drive from Pokhara to Chitwan; Duration: 5-6 hours.
After arriving at Chitwan we will check in to our hotel/resort and then take an ox cart tour around the town. The Tharu people are one of the main castes in the Terai region. Your guide will take you around the town where you can interact with the local people. Tonight you will stay at the Green Park Chitwan Resort.
Day 10 : Jungle safari at Chitwan National Park.
After breakfast, a park guide will take you on a walk through the area pointing out to you the various flora and fauna. Along the route, you will be able to climb the watchtowers to get a better view of the countryside. After lunch, we head out on a jeep safari to see the wildlife in the Chitwan National Park. From the jeep, we will able to see one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, spotted deer, and many other animal species. In the evening there is a Tharu cultural program where the Tharu dance and sing – including the peacock dance! We will again stay at Green Park Chitwan Resort.
Day 11 : Elephant safari at Chitwan National park.
An exciting attraction at Chitwan National Park is riding on the back of an elephant in the jungle. You are high enough to see into the distance and see numerous wildlife, such as the one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, deer, leopards, and monkeys. After lunch, we have a canoe ride down the Rapti River where you will see crocodiles and other marine animals. Later we will head to the elephant breeding center, a government-managed center, where you can watch mothers nurturing their young. The keepers will also show you the food they prepare for them and explain the habits and general nature of elephants. This is the only elephant breeding center in Asia. Tonight we will stay at the Green Park Chitwan Resort.
Day 12 : Drive back to Kathmandu; Duration: 5-6 hours.
While enjoying breakfast you can do some bird watching. The park is home to more than 450 species of birds. We will then head to the airport and fly back to Kathmandu and take you back to your own hotel.
Day 13 : Final departure
Today is your final day in Nepal. You will take with you some incredible memories of your trek through the Annapurna Ranges, views from Poon Hill, and your experience at Chitwan National Park. A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will take you to the airport three hours prior to your flight departure.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
2 nights’ standard accommodation in 3-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin sharing basis including breakfasts.
Twin/double shearing accommodation in the mountain during the trekking
2 nights’ standard accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara on a twin sharing basis including breakfasts.
3 nights’ standard accommodation in 3-star hotel in Chitwan on a twin sharing basis including breakfasts.
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking's experienced, government licensed, English speaking trekking guide.
Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
This tour offers Jain, Vegetarian and Kosher food options on request. Simply let our Customer Support team know the food option that you prefer.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS card)
Poonhill entry fee.
An arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
trekking route maps
All necessary government taxes and service charges
All the Jungle Safari/Activities as per the above-mentioned itinerary/program.
All national park fees/entry permits.
English speaking Nature/Jungle guide.
Office Service charge.
All Government Tax.
All ground transportation by private vehicle from and to the airport/bus station.
Tourist bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara / Pokhara -Chitwan/ Chitwan- Kathmandu and private tourist vehicle between Pokhara and Nayapul
The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests.)
Cost Excluded
International flight fare
Personal travel Insurance
Any meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
International airfare to and from Nepal.
Nepal Tourist Visa fee.
Items and expenses of personal nature and gratuities.
Any kind of alcoholic drinks/beverage bill, cold drinks, laundry, phone call, internet.
Personal Trekking Equipment like sleeping bags, jackets (can all be hired in KTM)
Emergency Evacuation (Helicopter Rescue).
Any costs which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, domestic flight delays, political disturbance, and strikes, etc.
Any other costs whatsoever, that is not mentioned in the cost included.
Tips for guide, supporting staff and driver.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
A pair of half gloves
A warmer hat that covers the ears
Sunglasses
Neckwarmer
Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
long sleeve t-shirts
Thermal tops
wool jacket or pullover
Sports bras for women and girls
Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
windproof and waterproof trousers
warmer trousers
Comfortable trekking pants
Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
Pair of sandals
4-5 pairs of woolen socks
Sock liners
Light shoes and sneakers
First Aid Kits and Medicines
Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
4 passport size photos with original passport
Water bottle & filter
Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
Comfortable trekking poles
Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
Power bank and music players
Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
