Arrival at Kathmandu

Upon your arrival, Sherpa Spirit Trek & Tours feel delighted to welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Your safe and comfortable transfer to a prearranged hotel is followed by an introduction with the trekking guide and associated staff. You will definitely enjoy an in-depth discussion about your trek including the trekking route, your personal requisites, the necessities for the trek and suggestions to prepare for the upcoming thrill and adventure, with the hot sips of masala tea.  

Sightseeing & trek preparation in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal is quite an excellent place to trip around. Popularly known as city of temples, the valley embraces 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is eminent for its unique architecture, rich culture, matchless history and street festivals.    The sightseeing will be led by our city guide after an early morning breakfast. It includes visit to the Hindu shrine-Pashupatinath, renowned Buddhist shrine-Boudhanath, the “city of fine arts”- Lalitpur and its Patan Durbar Square, Krishna temple, Kumbeshwar temple, Golden temple, 2000 years old Monkey Temple- Swayambhunath Stupa and Basantapur Durbar Square which is the home to the living goddess-Kumari. In the afternoon you can get acquainted with the local area around Thamel market where we assist you to finish your final trek preparations with spots of gears hire and/or shopping. The day ends with our official greet to you with a luscious typical Nepali food at a local restaurant. 

Drive from Kathmandu (1,350m) to Khudi (800m: 7-8 hours)

The day starts with an early morning breakfast and heading along Tirshuli river on the winding road of Prithivi Highway. From Dumre, we turn our way towards the north on Dumre-Besisahar-Chame highway. Though the road is somewhat bumpy and dusty in a few places, riding in a tourist bus is really safe and comfortable. Taking a window seat can deliver you some breathtaking and heart pounding landscapes. Crossing over a few terrace farms and woods, it takes about 7 hours to reach Besisahar. Additional half an hour of drive takes us to the first Gurung village of our journey, Khudi. It provides the first view of the astounding Manaslu Range. We accommodate, take food and rest overnight in Khudi.

Khudi (800m) to Sirung (2,200m: 6-7 hours)

The trek begins from Khudi. Through numerous climbs and falls, passing over a few suspension bridges, paddy fields, waterfalls and woodlands  we get to Sirung village in about 7 hours. On the way we come across a beautiful village called Taranche with Tamang people as the indigenous inhabitants. Sirung delivers close-up and mesmerizing views of Nadi Chuli and Manaslu mountains.

Sirung (2,200m) to Jagat (1,300m: 6-7 hours)

The path is comparatively easier and we head along a forest trail with dazzling sites of beautiful birds, plants, small villages and temples. Crossing the suspension bridges over Sangu river and Marshyangdi river can be thrilling and equally dreading for the first-timers. Path alongside the Marshyangdi river leads us to Jagat after crossing one more bridge.

Jagat (1,300m) to Dharapani (1,960m: 7-8 hours)

It’s about 15km and around 8 hours of trek from Jagat to Dharapani. Today’s trek takes us from Jagat to Chamje, Chamje to Tal, Tal to Karte and finally to Dharapani after crossing a suspension bridge. On the way we hit on several ascents and descents alongside steep stairs, cliffs, rock formations, waterfalls, lush greeneries, rivers, suspension bridges, cattle herds and incredible panoramic views of landscapes and mountains.

Dharapani (1,960m) to Chame (2,710m: 6-7 hours)

A gradual ascent from Dharapani in a wide trail through a woodland of blue pine, maple, spruce, hemlock and oak takes us to Bagarchap, which provides the first view of dazzling Annapurna just before the entrance. After 30 minutes of further climb, we reach Danaque. A steep climb from lower Danaque through beautiful rhododendron forest leads us to Timang which on further climb meets a traditional village with Tibetan lifestyle-Thanchowk. We trek forward to Koto through apple orchards and finally reach Chame-the administrative headquarter of Manang district, after 25 minutes of wander from Koto.  The trek provides the gorgeous views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV and Lamjung himal.

Chame (2,710m) to Pisang (3,300m: 5-6 hours)

It’s a long walk through forests with large apple orchards surrounded by stone walls. Around 6 hours of trek takes us to Pisang across beautiful places like Telekhu, Bhratang and Dhukur Pokhari. Along with breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Pisang peak, Himalchuli and Ngadi chuli, the trek provides the first view of Paungda Danda which is very popular for its western rock face rising exceptionally 1500m above the Marshyangdi river. Pisang can be characterized by numerous lodges and a long mani wall with prayer wheels.

Pisang (3,300m) to Manang (3,519m: 8-9 hours)

Today’s trek takes us from Pisang to Ghyaru then to Ngawal, Ngawal to Bragha and finally to Manang. Though we do have an alternative trail, this trail is highly preferred due to magnificent views of landscapes and mountains. Bragha monastery on the way, is quite often visited by travelers to explore art, beauty, culture and for eternal bliss.

Acclimatization and rest day in Manang

With the increase in altitude there is rapid contrast in climate and environment for which acclimatization is the must. An additional day and night in Manang helps our body to adapt with the environment and prepares us for further elevation. Side trek to Bhojo Gumba and Gangapurna lake is most preferred during this acclimatization.

Manang (3,519m) to Khangsar (3,745m: 4 hours)

About 3-4 hours of walk along the northern bank of Marshyangdi river, crossing the suspension bridge of Jarsang Khola and passing through pine forest and wheat fields, we reach Khangsar. Khangsar looks beautiful with a cluster of traditional stone buildings surrounding it. We stay here overnight for food and accommodation.

Khangsar (3,745m) to Tilicho Base Camp (4,140m: 5-6 hours)

Beginning with the steep climb then slowly gentle one and traversing Junipers and wild roses, Thare Gompa, Shree Kharka and several shepherd's huts, we reach Tilicho Base Camp residing alongside a small stream with fresh water. It’s about a 7km of walk which takes us around 5 hours.

Tilicho Base Camp (4,140m) to Tilicho Lake (4,949m) and return to Tilicho Base Camp (5-6 hours)

A long climb from Tilicho Base Camp delivers superb views of Tarke kang, Gangapurna and the mesmerizing Great Barrier with the black rock Khangsar Kang towering over it. On further climbing and passing 2 tarns we reach at a cairn with prayer flag, this place provides the first amazing view of the lake. The world’s highest altitude lake resides on the lap of an extensive glacier of the Great Barrier and is more often frozen. We return back to Tilicho Base Camp and rest overnight.

Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4,040m: 5-6 hours)

After an early morning breakfast, we leave Tilicho Base camp and start our trek in a gentle winding trail above Khangsar village. The trail leads us out of Marshyangdi valley and uphill along Thorang Khola, finally taking us to Yak Kharka-the place where yak herders bring their cattle to graze. Yak Kharka provides amazing views of Tilicho peak, Khatungkang and Chulu.

Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,500m) or High Camp (4,700m: 4-5 hours)

It's an uphill battle to Thorong Phedi. If we persevere, we will be targeting the High Camp. You will witness gorgeous sights of the mountains throughout the way.

Thorong Phedi (4,500m) to Muktinath (3,800m: 9-10 hours)

We begin with a steep climb from Thorong Phedi to traverse High Camp and reach Thorong-La Pass-one of the world’s highest passes.  It really feels majestic at an altitude of 5416m. Be prepared; snow may block the pass any time of the year and we may need to walk hours on snow. It may sound dreadful but it’s more exciting and memorable.

About 1600m of steep descents puts us to Muktinath in around 4 hours. To be exact, Muktinath is a temple whereas the name of the village is Ranipauwa. However, both locals and touristsrefer to the place itself as Muktinath.

Muktinath (3,800m) to Jomsom (2,700m: 6-7 hours)

We most possibly visit Muktinath temple and its surroundings to capture some memories. From Muktinath to Jomson, is a trek through dusty trails providing mixed sights of terraces, streams, vegetation and livestock with buses, jeeps and pilgrims. By a bus or a jeep and a shorter trek through Lubra village are other options to reach Jomsom. A gradual descent takes us to a beautiful village, Kagbeni which is one of the most notable milestones and the gateway to upper Mustang. We reach Jomsom after a furthermore descent, with frequent strong winds dusting our faces. Moreover, Marpha which is popularly known for its apple brandy, may be our stop point if we don’t get exhausted. Else, we take food and rest overnight in Jomsom.

Jomsom (2,700m) to Tatopani (1,190m: 5 hours)

Taking a trek route from Jomsom to Tatopani is quite exhausting, dusty and takes about 3 more days through Tukuche, Ghasa and Dana. So to save our time and energy we travel to Tatopani by a local jeep or bus, as most of the travelers do. Tatopani is widely known for its hot spring bath which may bring your exhausted and sore legs to normal.

Tatopani (1,190m) to Pokhara (750m: 5 hours)

Tatopani to Pokhara is again a ride in a local transport alongside hypnotic sights of hills and landscapes. Till Beni, it's a dirt road which takes about one and half hours, whereas the road from Beni is paved and comparatively smooth making us to Pokhara in about four hours. Reaching Pokhara in the middle of the day can be taken as an opportunity to explore various places like Sarangkot, Fewa lake, Tal Barahi temple, Begnas lake, Shanti Stupa, Devi’s fall, Gupteshwor Mahadev cave, Mahendra cave and more.

Pokhara to Kathmandu (6-7 hours)

After a long, and incredible (but perhaps slightly tiring) trek, we think you deserve to avoid the long drive back to Kathmandu. So today we’ll be taking a domestic flight back to Kathmandu, which takes about 45 minutes. With an afternoon in Kathmandu to yourself, you can choose to wander the bustling tourist district of Thamel to finish up your souvenir shopping, or rest up in your hotel. Join us for a final meal together, as we enjoy a Nepalese farewell dinner with traditional live music and dance. 

Drop off at the airport

As today is your last day in the country we appreciate your decision to choose us as your travel companion. We are honored to be a part of your beautiful memories and hope that we met your expectations. We will accompany you to the airport for a traditional Nepal farewell, and we wish you a safe flight back home.