There are several ways of getting refreshments and adventures, and trekking is undoubtedly one of the perfect choices. Significant places like Nepal are not listed at the bottom when you are winding up the best trekking destinations in the world. As we all know, how diverse and vibrant the natural beauty of Nepal is, it indeed is a perfect getaway for refreshments and adventures. Inside this beautiful country are hundreds of destinations to go to; some of them are Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Manaslu Base Camp, Pokhara, Lumbini, and many more. Here, we have brought a unique trekking package in Nepal, Annapurna Panorama Trek.
Annapurna Panorama Trek is a kind of Annapurna region trek that features the most scenic destinations. Places like Ghandruk, Poon Hill, and Hot Springs at Jhinu Danda are core areas this trek takes you through. From the view of mystic mountain peaks like Annapurna I, II, III, Himchuli, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre to the lush forests and the fast-flowing rivers, Annapurna Panorama Trek covers most of it all.
Annapurna region is a pristine form of natural build with the above-listed features. And most importantly, the people around the region are hospitable and welcoming, which will make your stay very soothing. Besides, you will have the chance to experience Nepali culture, society, and lifestyle through your own eyes. What could be handier than being groomed inside the Nepalese community in your trek? So this blog revolves around the activities you will be involved in during this trek and the preparation needed. Let’s have a look!!
Highlights of Annapurna Panorama Trek
- Mystic views of Annapurna I, II, III, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and other peaks.
- Sunrise/Sunset Views from the viewpoint of Poon Hill.
- Exploring people and lifestyles of Poon Hill and Ghandruk.
- Exploring the local cuisine, including the popular Thakali Khana Set.
- Visiting the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
- Exploring the tourist areas around Pokhara City.
How To Get the Most Out of Your Annapurna Panorama Trek?
Start Your Trek From Nayapul
It’s better to start your Annapurna Panorama Trek from Nayapul because it is accessible by road and takes only a couple of hours from Pokhara to reach there. You can get a jeep, bus, or taxi that will take you to this starting point of your trek.
From Nayapul, you can hike to the Hile and elevate your altitude through rugged routes and rocky terrain, which will be one of the most adventurous tours you have ever experienced.
Pack Appropriately
Gears and equipment should be the most prioritized set of preparations that you need to have during the Annapurna Panorama Trek. Remember to pack wisely and carry warm clothes, rain gear, hiking shoes, and trekking poles. Similarly, pack sleeping bags, water bottles, and snacks for you during the trek.
Besides that, you also should carry safety kits like first aid kits.
Stay Hydrated And Eat Well
Your physical health matters the most during your trek – if you feel sick or your body cannot take hurdles like rocky terrain and rugged routes, it will be hard to complete the trek. So ensure you eat nutritious food and stay hydrated to stay healthy and strong. Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water. Also, try the local Nepalese food and snacks, which are delicious and filling.
Hire a Guide and Porter
Hiring a guide and porter is wise since you will be walking through long hours. Your guide can help you navigate the route during the trek, which makes you comfortable reaching the destination. They can also be your medium to speak and share ideas with the local people and community.
Similarly, porters carry your backpack, making walking around the rocky terrain quick. Besides all that, hiring a guide and porter is also a great way to support the local economy.
Acclimatize
During your Annapurna Panorama Trek, the highest altitude you will reach is 3,210 meters. It is considered a moderate trek since it does not take to high altitudes, like over 4000 or 5000 meters, but still, altitude can be a problem for many trekkers. You should acclimatize yourself and elevate around 300 to 500 meters a day.
Take breaks, rest, and do not rush during the trek; your trip will be worth your money.
Be Respectful of the Local Culture
Throughout your trek, you will be revolving around places like Poon Hill, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk, which are the settlements of the Gurung, Thakali, and Magar people. While away from home and in a new culture and society, you must respect the people and culture. Show them good hospitality, greet them, and ask for permission before taking any photographs.
Also, learn some local gestures to groom the community quickly.
Enjoy the Views
The panoramic view of the Annapurna region is top-notch – it is well-acknowledged for the views of the Himalayan range and green lush forests. Take your time sightseeing these beauties – sunrise, and sunset are the best things you can experience during your trek.
Also, remember to pack your camera to take snaps of the places so that you can save this as a memory for a lifetime.
What Are The Preparation Required?
Going out for Annapurna Panorama Trek without strong preparation might not be worth it. You should have a step-by-step process to get involved in the activities during the trek. So what are the preparations you need for Annapurna Panorama Trek? Here are some details:
Permits
There are two types of permits you need for the Annapurna Panorama Trek. The first one is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which can be obtained from the office of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kamaladi, Kathmandu. You will have to pay around NPR 3000 per person to get this license. There are discounts for Nepalese and SAARC Nationals – Nepalese Trekkers have to pay only NPR 100 per person for the permit, while the SAARC Nationals have to pay NPR 1000 per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area is restricted since it is a protected land designed to conserve wildfires and plants. Most of the land inside it is a forested area rich in flora and fauna. You can even see some of the most endangered wildlife species like snow leopard, musk deer, the Himalayan Tahr, and many more. Annapurna Conservation Area is a protected land, so you must obtain a special permit (ACAP) to enter through it.
Next, obtain a TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System). You can get it from the Tourism Board for around NPR 1000, and it is for group trekkers. If you are trekking alone (solo), it costs you around NPR 2000 per person. Similarly, it does have a discount for the SAARC Nationals, which is NRs. 300 for group trekkers and NRs. 600 for solo trekkers.
Physical And Mental Preparation
Your physical and mental wellness directly impacts the Annapurna Panorama Trek. Since this is not a day-long journey, you should be prepared to trek for over a week with your physical fitness. Your body should endure all the physical obstacles throughout the trip so that you can complete the trek successfully and happily.
One thing is certain – your body will be drained after hours of hiking through the rugged and rocky terrains in this trek, so if you have a proper physical shape with good endurance, stamina, and energy, your trekking experience will be on cloud nine. You should go for short treks, do cardio, and hit the gym to increase your fitness level. And if you have a problem with altitude, you better train your lungs and prepare for the safety measures.
Besides that, your mentality should be robust and focused. Despite the potential obstacles during the trek, you must be confident and continue your hike with a proper mindset and motivation. If your body says no, then it’s a no – descend to the lower altitudes if you have problems with altitude and related sickness. Also, emphasize your mind on the positive sides of your trek, which can create an outstanding outcome later.
Gears And Safety Measures Preparation
What gears can you prepare for the Annapurna Panorama Tour? The first thing is packing the clothes and remedies. Include thermal clothes and layers, windproof and waterproof jackets, warm socks, gloves, and hats. Since the climate will be cold around Annapurna Region, packing these outfits will help you adjust to the environment.
Besides that, gear like hiking boots, trekking poles, backpacks, and others will be beneficial. You can even rent them at the stores in Thamel, Kathmandu, which will be budget-friendly. The ultimate goal of preparing for gear is to make your trekking experience convenient. For example, the routes around the region are rugged and seasonable, so sturdy hiking boots will help you to deal with it. Similarly, trekking poles can help your body throughout the uphill and downhill hikes.
Besides that, safety measures should be your next priority while preparing for Annapurna Panorama Trek. Remember to pack first aid kits with essential medications, painkillers, and other supplements, so you can use them if anything unpredicted happens. And if you have not been exposed to high altitudes before, carry oxygen supplements for breathing – it will keep you safe from altitude sickness and related illnesses.
Annapurna Region Treks:
Conclusion
Annapurna Panorama Trek is a partial Annapurna Base Camp Trek – you will be traveling through some panoramic places around the region except for the base camp. From the views of mystic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range to the vibrant culture and hospitality of Ghandruk and Poonhill, you will find everything amusing in Annapurna Panorama Trek.
Besides that, you can make your stay in Pokhara colorful by engaging yourself in activities like sightseeing places. So contact us if this trek heats your blood and daring motives. We can help you go through the thrilling tour of the Annapurna region, which will be very exciting for you.
Day 1 | Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Day 2 | Drive to Nayapul and trek to Hile (1430m)
Day 3 | Trek to Ghorepani
Day 4 | Hike up to Poonhill (3195m) and trek to Tadapani (2685m)
Day 5 | Trek to Ghandruk village
Day 6 | Trek to Jhinu Danda (natural hot spring)
Day 7 | Trek to Siwai, then drive to Pokhara
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 | Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Location: Pokhara
Pokhara Altitude: 822 Meters
Accommodation: Hotel
After arriving in Kathmandu, Nepal, you will fly or take a drive to Pokhara Airport, which takes around 30 to 45 minutes by plane. If you drive, you will reach Pokhara after 6 to 7 hours. You will be passing across the beautiful landscapes around Dhading and Tanahun districts that feature green terraced fields, forests, and riversides.
Once you reach Tanahun, you can view mountain peaks like Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and other mountain peaks.
After reaching Pokhara, you will be escorted to your hotel, where you will rest. If you wish to roam around the city, you can get to its core areas and experience the lifestyle of people. Places like Phewa and Begnas lake, Mountain Museum, Mahendra and Chamero Gufa, White Gumba, and Sarangkot Hill are not to be missed during your stay in Pokhara.
Day 2 | Drive to Nayapul and trek to Hile (1430m)
Location: Nayapool
Nayapul Altitude: 1,480 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
On the second day of your Annapurna Panorama Trek, you will drive to Nayapul on a jeep or a bus. It is around 2 hours drive from the heart of Pokhara city. After reaching Nayapul, your real journey begins.
First, you will take a hike to Hile and make your overnight stay there. Reaching Hile takes another couple of hours to three on a walk. Hile is a beautiful place to have refreshments - filled with forested areas and aligned with the views of mountain ranges; it offers a getaway from all your bad vibes.
Day 3 | Trek to Ghorepani
Location: Ghorepani
Ghorepani Altitude: 2,874 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
From Hile, you must hike to Ghorepani, a popular destination for delving into the natural beauty and cultural richness. You will climb uphill from Hile to 2,874 meters in altitude, where Ghorepani resides.
You can experience the traditions of the Magar, Gurung, and Thakali people and their backgrounds. One of the alluring features of Ghorepani is that you will get to taste the famous cuisine, Thakali Khana set. You will also sightsee the nearby locations and stay at a teahouse overnight.
Day 4 | Hike up to Poonhill (3195m) and trek to Tadapani (2685m)
Location: Poonhill
Poon Hill Altitude: 3,210 Meters
Accommodation: Guest House/Tea House
From Ghorepani, you will trek to Poonhill on the fourth day. Poonhill is also a famous destination in mid-western Nepal, featuring the culture and tradition of the Thakali, Gurung, and Magar people. As mentioned above, Poonhill also serves the best Thakali Khana set in the region. It lies at an altitude of 3,210 meters above sea level, which makes it a perfect viewpoint to watch the sunrise, sunset, and the 360 degree views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range.
From Ghorepani, you must hike for around 6 hours to reach Poonhill.
After summing up the activities around Poonhill, you will now hike to Tadapani, which is 2,685 meters above sea level. You must walk for around 2 hours to reach Tadapani from Poonhill. You will stay at a guest house in Tadapani.
Day 5 | Trek to Ghandruk village
Location: Ghandruk
Ghandruk Altitude: 2,012 Meters
Accommodation: Guest House/Tea House
On the fifth day of your trek, you will hike to Ghandruk Village, famous for Thakali cuisine, Magar, Thakali, and Gurung culture. You can find a hospitable environment around the region as people are welcoming. Ghandruk lies at 2,012 meters above sea level, and it is also the viewpoint to have views of mountain peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and others.
It takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach Ghandruk Village from Tadapani. At Ghandruk, you will stay at a guest house for an overnight stay.
Day 6 | Trek to Jhinu Danda (natural hot spring)
Location: Jhinu Danda
Jhinu Danda Altitude: 1,780 Meters
Accommodation: Tea House
The natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda are very famous in the Annapurna region, and when you are taking Annapurna Panorama Trek, it is a place that should be noticed. The hot springs at Jhinu Danda are at an altitude of 1,610 meters (5,280 Feet), and it is very famous amongst trekkers as they get to get rid of their tiring hikes around Annapurna region.
You will reach the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after hiking for around 5 to 6 hours.
Day 7 | Trek to Siwai, then drive to Pokhara
Location: Siwai
Siwai Altitude: 1,500 Meters
Accommodation: Hotel At Pokhara
Now you have come to the ending phase of your Annapurna Panorama Trek. From Jhinu Danda, you will not hike to Siwai, which lies 1,500 meters above sea level. Siwai is a three-hour drive from Pokhara and around 5 to 6 hours of walk from Jhinu Danda.
It is also a perfect place to have adventures and thrill as you pass across the dense forest of Rhododendron and rocky terrains that will take your breath away.
After reaching Siwai, you will catch a jeep and head toward the beautiful city of Pokhara. You will be escorted to your respective hotels, where you will enjoy the basic amenities like an attached bathroom, hot showers, and 24/7 electric and internet speed. If you want to experience the nightlife of Pokhara, you can join the night parties filled with live music or visit various lounges and bars like Trisara, Rolling Stones and more.
Trip Cost US$ 700 Per person
Cost Includes:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Accommodation during the trek (teahouses/guesthouses)
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Experienced and licensed trekking guide
- Porter service for carrying luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
- All necessary permits and entry fees
- All government and local taxes
- First aid medical kit
Cost Excludes:
- International airfare and travel insurance
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast)
- Personal expenses (such as drinks, snacks, hot showers, wifi, battery charging, etc.)
- Tips for the guide and porter (not mandatory, but highly appreciated)
- Any other expenses not mentioned in the "Cost Includes" section.
