Lower Annapurna Trek

Trip Facts
Trip Duration
9 Days
Region
Annapurna Treks
Country
Nepal
Group Size
2 To 15 person
Arrival On
Kathmandu
Departure From
Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Max Altitude
2100M
easy-icon Easy TripGrade are those in which less hiking is required - about 3-4 hrs per day. Good for begineers and less intensive. City Tours, Jungle Safari are some easy ones. Acclimatization is not required.
Trip Grade
Easy
Activities
Nepal Trekking
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Lower Annapurna Trek Overview

Lower Annapurna Trek is the best match for trekking lovers who don’t have enough time for the long days ABC trek. Situated along the northern Himalayas, trekking along the foothills of Annapurna is popular among both National and International trekkers. The lower altitude of this Annapurna Foothills trek is the reason, why this trek is considered the best family trek.

Uttered with diverse names like short Annapurna Trek, Annapurna Foothills Trek, Ghandruk Loop Trek, Lower Annapurna Family Trek, and simply the Lower Annapurna Trek, the trek traverses beautiful Ghandruk village, Landruk, Tolka, Pothana, and Australian Camp. Further, there are other tiny settlements on the way to mesmerize you with their astonishment. Traversing each of these settlements gives you a deep insight into the lifestyle and tradition of the Gurung people. Moreover, the beautiful terraced fields with the working farmers let you enjoy the Nepalese cultivating and harvesting methods.

The Gurung Museum of Ghandruk, Buddhist monasteries, and the homestays, best value your time. Besides the Gurung, you can also encounter some Brahmin, Chhetri, or Magar people.

The villages and trails of the Lower Annapurna region not only boost the cultural amusement. But the region is also appreciable for its natural marvels too. The alluring views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri are there on your way to bring out a seraphic smile on your face. In addition, the sunrise and sunset views over the spectacular mountain ranges drag you more into the world of natural wonders. Whether you are in Ghandruk village or Australian Camp, both of these places serve you with captivating Himalayan views.

The walks on the stone staircases amidst the vibrant rhododendron forests are another prime attraction of this Lower Annapurna Trek. Get a glimpse of the Deer, Danphe, and many other animals and birds during this short Annapurna Foothills Trek.

Joining this short and easy trek on the foothills of Annapurna, live every moment with great excitement. No matter how many staircases you climb during the trek, each moment is there to give you a beautiful expression. For a wonderful trekking experience in the Lower Annapurna Region, contact Mission Himalayan Treks, a reputable local trekking agency in Nepal. Further, if you have any queries or confusion regarding this trek or any other Nepal Trek, message us without any hesitation. We are eagerly waiting to serve each of our beloved visitors.

Trip Facts of Lower Annapurna Trek.

Trekking Region: Annapurna Region.

Maximum Elevation: 2100m.

Start Point: Nayapul.

End Point: Kande/Sarangkot.

Route: Kathmandu-Pokhara-Nayapul-Birethanti-Ghandruk-Landruk-Tolka-Pothana-Australian Camp-Kande/Sarangkot-Pokhara-Kathmandu.

Accommodation: Lodge, Homestays, Hotels.

Best seasons: Autumn and Spring.

Why choose Lower Annapurna Trek?

Whenever it comes to trekking in Nepal, most people are misled by the thought that Nepal trekking is concurrent with the high-altitude arduous journey. But this is not all true. Apart from high altitude long days trek, the Himalayas of Nepal also serve trekkers with short and easy treks. Far from the hectic hi-tech life, the trek to the Lower Annapurna Region is one of Nepal’s perfect short and easy treks. Despite being short, the Lower Annapurna Trek still immerses you in most of the wonders of the Annapurna region. It gives you a glimpse of the alluring natural and cultural grandeur of the Annapurna region. So just pack your bags, tie your Nepal hiking boots, and head to the trails of Lower Annapurna with a beautiful camera.

Trip Highlights:

  • Bewitching sunset and sunrise view from charming villages of Ghandruk and Australian Camp.
  • Dazzling views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre Himalayas.
  • Delightful walk on the stone staircases amidst the blooming rhododendron and oak forest.
  • Insight into the culture and lifestyle of the hospitable Gurung community.

Short Annapurna Foothills Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at the Kathmandu Airport and transfer to your designated hotel room.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1400m) and Trek Preparation.

Day 3: Scenic and pleasing drive/flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara(820m).

Day 4: Drive Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk(1995m).

Day 5: Trek from Ghandruk to Tolka(1750m).

Day 6: From Tolka trek to Australian Camp(1870m).

Day 7: Australian Camp to Pokhara.

Day 8: Return to Kathmandu from Pokhara.

Day 9: Departure Day.

Lower Annapurna Trekking Route:

This short Annapurna Trek starts from the near settlements of Pokhara. The nearby settlements include Nayapul, Kande and Phedi. Depending upon your preference you can start your trek from any of these locations. To reach these locations you have to take a drive for around 1 hour from Pokhara.

According to our Annapurna Foothills Trek Itinerary, our Lower Annapurna Trek starts from Nayapul after around 1 hour of drive from Pokhara. The trail from Nayapul takes you through the Birethanti to Ghandruk. Following the downhill and uphill stone steps, the trails lead you towards Landruk from where Tolka is reachable with an easy walk. Continuing the trek from Tolka we reach Pothana before stopping at Australian Camp.

From Australian Camp, you have the option to either head to Kande or towards Sarangkot. Upon reaching any of these place return to Pokhara by taking a short ride.

Best time for Lower Annapurna Trek

With the perfect blend of culture and nature, Lower Annapurna trekking gives you an incredible trekking experience all year round. Each of the seasons has its own specialty. But similar to the other trekking in Nepal, Spring and Autumn are the best trekking seasons to explore the region’s beauty. The azure and the fascinating mountains vistas during this season are enough to make your trek memorable. The moderate season of Autumn and Spring are there to create an atmosphere of euphoric excitement.

For snowfall lovers, a trek in winter is equally awe-inspiring whereas, with some preparations, Summer is perfect for botanical researchers.

Spring Trek on the Annapurna Foothills

Accommodation and Meals during the Annapurna short Trek

Accommodation

You needn’t have to bother much about the accommodation during the short trek to the Lower Annapurna region. There are a plethora of hygienic and friendly lodges throughout the trail. Further, homestay is also quite popular on this trekking trail. Lodges here normally provide you with a spacious room with a beautiful bed with clean and comfortable bed sheets, pillows, and blankets. Almost all of the lodges serve you with the wifi and charging facility. A hot shower is available in most places.

In general, we can say that the lodges on this short Annapurna Trekking trails are never there to disappoint you. However, it is also true that the expectation of 5-star treatment on this trekking trail might disappoint you. So, when heading towards the remote regions, expect the normal level of treatment.

During your stay in the city areas of Kathmandu and Pokhara, you have a wide range of options. As per your budget and preference you can choose budget-friendly as well as 5-star hotels.

Food and Drinking water during the Annapurna Foothills Trek

As the Lower Annapurna Trekking trails houses several restaurants and lodges, you needn’t have carry the foods during the trek. However, for instant energy, it is wise to keep the chocolate bars inside your day pack.

With the option of western foods like pasta, pizza, noodles, and so on, you can order the luscious Nepali Traditional Dal and Bhat. In the case of drinks, mineral water bottles, bottled beers, and other soft drinks are found in abundance in the restaurants on the trekking trails of this short Annapurna Trek. Despite the availability of mineral water bottles, considering the pollution-free environment, bring a water bottle and water purification pills. You can refill the bottle at lodges and restaurants.

You must try the tea during the trekking journey. Every sip of tea is there to refresh you. Coffee is also available but most of the local people prefer tea over coffee so, you too join these locals with a teacup on hand.

Fitness level required for the Lower Annapurna Trek

Suitable for people of all age groups, this trek on the foothills of Annapurna is the best short, and easy trek in Nepal. Compared to the higher altitude trek such as Everest Base Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, this short trek is relatively easy and comfortable. Being the lower region trek, altitude sickness is not a matter of concern during this trek. A normal fitness level is enough to conquer this trek.

On this trek, you have to walk for around 6 hours per day. Most of the time you have to walk on the stone staircases, so prepare yourself by jogging before 2 weeks of the trek start. Jogging and other exercises before the trek help you increase your endurance and stamina. If you are planning on joining the Lower Annapurna Trek with all your family members, you better do the prior medical check of the whole body.

Though the previous trekking experience is not mandatory if you have then it would be a boon for you.

What Permits are required for joining this Annapurna Foothills Trek?

Also called the Ghandruk loop trek, this trek to the foothills of the Annapurna region demands TIMS(Trekkers Information Management System) Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP). You can obtain the park entry permit and TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Office in Kathmandu. Further, it is also possible to acquire these permits from the Nepal Tourism office in Pokhara.

To obtain the entry permit and TIMS card you need your passport and passport-sized photographs. If you don’t have passport-sized photographs, you can click the pictures at the office itself free of cost. Also, don’t forget to visit the office with Nepali currency.

After obtaining the permits and TIMS card you can use these documents for a single entry only. You have to carry those permits all along the trekking route. At the check post, you have to show your permits.

Applying and acquiring trekking permits is not a daunting task. But, if you find this all irritating, join the Lower Annapurna Trek with the reputable local trekking agency in Nepal. Joining a trek with them, you no longer have to take the stress of document formalities and all. The agency will take care of all your permits and documentation formalities. Further, they also provide you with an experienced and licensed guide. Trekking with a guide not only gives you a secure feel but also helps to indulge and connect with locals more appropriately.

Lower Annapurna Trek Itinerary

Walking Hours: 30 Minutes Drive

Meals Included: Welcome Dinner

Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel

Once you arrive at the Tribhuwan Airport, our representative member will greet you and help you with the completion of the check-in procedure. Thereafter they will transfer you to the hotel room. Upon reaching the hotel room relax for a while and at the evening time experience the wonderful walk on the buzzing streets of Thamel and nearby locations.

Walking Hours: 6 To 7 Hours Day Tour

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel

Max. Altitude: 1400M

Starting the day with an early morning breakfast, we today make a visit to the UNESCO world heritage site in Kathmandu. Visiting all the UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu within a single day is quite difficult, and it doesn’t let you explore properly. Therefore among others, we have selected Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. However, as per your preference, you can alter the list before starting the sightseeing day tour in Kathmandu.

Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu astonishes you with the valley’s historical, architectural, cultural, and religious beauty. After the day tour, we provide you with a briefing of the Lower Annapurna Trek. We also help you with your backpacking. After the completion of backpacking, we leave you for sound sleep.

Walking Hours: 7 Hours Driving/ 30 Minutes Flight

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel

Max. Altitude: 820M

After the early morning breakfast, join a scenic drive of around 6 hours from Kathmandu Valley to the Pokhara Valley. Alternatively, you can also take a short and scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. With opulent attractions, the city lets you indulge in various adventurous activities. Stroll around the lakeside Pokhara is the most admired evening activity. If you too want a peaceful walk, then you can join that evening walk. Otherwise, visit the lavish club and bars to experience the best nightlife in Nepal

Walking Hours: 2 Hours Drive And 4 Hours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea Houses/ Lodge

Max. Altitude: 1995M

With full of enthusiasm and excitement, today we drive to Nayapul from Pokhara. Nayapul is the gateway to most of the treks to the Annapurna region. For our Lower Annapurna Trek also, the case is the same. Commencing the trek from Nayapul, we head towards Birethanti and Kimche to reach Ghandruk. Ghandruk is a charming Gurung village that is popular mostly for the exotic Gurung tradition, jovial locals, and the Gurung Museum. For your stay, there are different lodges and homestays available here. Furthermore, the homestays of Ghandruk are the best-known homestay in Nepal. Enjoying the Gurung cultural dance and programs, you will spend your night at Ghandruk.

Along with the pleasing Gurung tradition and spectacular Annapurna south, Machhapuchhre, and many other mountains views, your fourth day’s Annapurna Foothills trek leaves you with a beautiful experience.

Walking Hours: 4 To 5 Hours Trekking

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Max. Altitude: 1750M

Making our destination Tolka, today we start our early morning trek with a downhill trek via the rocky steps. Descending down from Ghandruk, we pass the small tiny settlement of Yumle, to reach the Modikhola river swinging bridge. Crossing the bridge, we proceed our trek with an uphill climb on the stone staircases to reach Landruk, a stunning Gurung village. The trek from Landruk to Tolka is easy and takes you via the stunning terraced fields. Overnight stay at Tolka.

Walking Hours: 3 To 4 Tours Trek

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Accommodation: Tea House/ Lodge

Max. Altitude: 1870M

Taking the delicious morning breakfast we continue our trek. Before marching our steps towards the Bheri Kharka, we first cross the small stream. Further climbing from Bheri Kharka, the trail leads to Pitam Deurali(2100m). Along with the breathtaking mountain views, we make our descent down to Pothana. Traversing the beautiful forest and terraced fields we terminate our today’s trek at Australian Camp. The views of Annapurna range from the Australian Camp brings out the spark of happiness on your face. Furthermore, the sunset and sunrise views over the mountain make your stay at the Australian Camp memorable.

Walking Hours: 2 Hours Trek And 30 Minutes Drive

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel

Max. Altitude: 920M

It is your final day on the trekking trails of our Annapurna short trek. Depending upon your preference, we either follow the trail towards Kande or Sarangkot. Upon reaching any of these places, we take a drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight at Pokhara.

Walking Hours: 7 Hours Drive/25 Minutes Flight

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: 3 Star Category Hotel

Max. Altitude: 1355M

On this day we will take a drive or flight back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. At Kathmandu, you can spend your remaining day visiting the streets of the Kathmandu Valley. Further, you can give your time for souvenir shopping also.

Walking Hours: 30 Minutes Drive

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: None

Max. Altitude: 1350M/4,430ft

Our representative member will transfer you to the airport so that you can catch your scheduled flight.

Lower Annapurna Trek Cost

Quotation Can be Different According to Number of Days in Trekking, Your Country of Residence, Number of days in City, Guide quality, Equipments, Flights Company, Hotels quality in City, Transportation Type, Number of Trekkers in your Groups, Teahouses quality of Trekking, Meals what include in Trekking, Other Numerous included Items. For exaxt Cost Please Message us in whatsapp. +977-9841965533

  • Airport picks up and drops by air-conditioned private vehicle according to the itinerary.

  • 3 nights 3-star standard accommodation in Kathmandu according to itinerary with breakfast.

  • 2 night 3-star standard accommodation in Pokhara according to itinerary with breakfast.

  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by flight according to the itinerary.

  • Pokhara to Nayapul and Kande to Pokhara transportation by private vehicle.

  • Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing by guide and private vehicle according to the itinerary.

  • 3 meals(breakfast, lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking.

  • an experienced guide and strong porter for the trek with salary food accommodation transportation and insurances.

  • A trek completion certificate signed by guide and company owner.

  • Annapurna conservation area project entry permits and trekkers information management systems TIMS permits.

  • Twin sharing accommodation in trekking in lodges or teahouses.

  • First-Aid medicine with a guide.

  • Welcome or farewell dinner and trekking maps.

  • Nepal visa fee is US$ 30 for 15 days, US$ 50 for 30 days, and US$ 120 for 90 days.

  • International flight ticket from Your country to Nepal and Nepal to your country.

  • Your travel, emergency rescue, and Insurance cost.

  • Food rather than the above-mentioned itinerary, Telephone Bills, Laundry charges, Hot shower, Wifi and Internet, Battery Charging, Hot and cold drinks during the trekking.

  • Extra porter costs during the trekking.

  • Lunch and dinner cost in Kathmandu and Pokhara rather than welcome dinner.

  • The further cost like Costs increased by natural disasters, Flight delays, Early arrival then the scheduled trekking.

  • Tips and Gift for guide and porter.

  • Other costs not mentioned in the cost includes section.

Trip Gear

Lower Annapurna Trek Map

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Lower Annapurna trek Map

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