Annapurna Expedition
Photo Credit: “Annapurna” by Daniel Keppler
Expedition Details
Altitude: 8,091m
Location: Nepal (Annapurna Region)
Estimated Price: $35k
Number of days: ~35/40
Season: Spring & Autumn
March-May; September-November (Colder)
An Annapurna I expedition itinerary involves arriving in Kathmandu, preparing for the climb, and then traveling to the Annapurna Base Camp (Annapurna BC) via a combination of trekking and driving, often involving helicopter flights. The core of the expedition is the climbing period at Annapurna BC, followed by a descent, and finally returning to Kathmandu and departing. A typical itinerary spans 35-45 days.
Key Elements & Variations:
Helicopter Use: Some itineraries use helicopter transfers from lower points like Tatopani directly to Annapurna Base Camp to save time. We work with our clients time-tables and preferences as much as possible.
Trekking vs. Driving: There can be a mix of trekking and driving on the approach to the base camp.
Duration: Expeditions can vary from around 35 to 45 days, with the bulk of the time spent at Base Camp during the climbing period.
Acclimatization:
Acclimatization is a crucial part of the approach to Annapurna BC, with several days allocated for it.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
Day 2:
Expedition preparation, official briefings, and last-minute shopping in Kathmandu.
Day 3:
Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Day 4:
Drive or trek from Pokhara to Tatopani.
Days 5-8:
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp, passing through villages and forests, with acclimatization days and potentially helicopter transfers to reach the base.
Days 9-38 (approx.): The primary climbing phase where climbers ascend and acclimatize to the summit of Annapurna I.
Days 39-43 (approx.):
Descend from the base camp, with trekking or helicopter transfers back to the lower regions.
Days 44-45 (approx.):
Return to Kathmandu from Pokhara.
Day 45/47 (approx.):
Free day in Kathmandu for rest and final souvenir shopping. Farewell Dinner.
Day 46/49 (approx.):
Transfer to the airport for your final departure.