Annapurna Model Trek
Overview
A FEAST FOR THE EYES IN ONLY 11 DAYS LIVING CLOSE TO SOARING PEAKS!
The Annapurna Model trek is a preferred alternative to the more touristy Annapurna Circuit treks and is of medium difficulty and offers you beautiful views of the vast Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs. It is also known as the Machapuchare Village Trek.
Machapuchare (Fishtail) is a symbolic unmistakable on the skyline. This trek brings you close to many soaring peaks in the Annapurna Ranges and immerses you in exquisite natural surroundings and the culture and centuries-old traditions of the villagers in these remote locations. The trail leads to relaxing therapeutic hot water springs, waterfalls, and tea gardens where the views will take your breath away!
On the Machapuchare Model Trek we can choose to stay in tents or in traditional homes with locals – homestay, in a number of villages in the Kaski District of Nepal, such as Ribhan (1430m), Lahchok, Ghachok, Lwang Ghalel, Sardi Khola and Dhital. Trekking to the villages will allow you to experience various castes, such as Gurung, Brahmin, Chhetri, Newar, Thakali, kumal. The homestay option gives you a better understanding of their individual beliefs and cultures.
The trail on this trek will expose you to extremely beautiful scenery and Mt. Mardi (5587m), Mt. Machapuchare (6993m – Fishtail) Annapurna Massif (8091m – Annapurna 1), Mt. Dhaulagiri 1 (8167m – 7th highest in the world) and exposure to other mountains in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs (120km in length). The Annapurna Massif has one peak of over 8000 meters, thirteen peaks over 7000 meters, and sixteen more over 6000 meters.
Our Sherpa Expedition & Trekking team will take you to the very soul of the Himalayas and provide you with photo opportunities of numerous snow-capped peaks that will leave you spell-bound. Here is an opportunity to get close-up and personal with some of the world’s most memorable peaks.
Key Features of Annapurna Model Trek
- Up-close views of amazing & photogenic Machapuchare (Fishtail) and the vast Annapurna Ranges.
- Beautiful Pokhara, lakes, and startling reflections off the mountains.
- Exposure to the mountain villagers and their distinctly different cultures, lifestyle & food.
- Newly developed trek to new destinations that benefits many villages.
Altitude Chart
Itinerary
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will be there to greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel, followed by a briefing covering information, dos and don’ts of your trek. Your hotel will be in the Thamel tourist district and is an interesting place to wander and explore. Your safety and comfort are paramount.
Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive toward the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake) and then checking in to your hotel close to Phewa Tal. There is plenty to see and do along Lakeside with its many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from.
Today we will drive to Milan Chowk from Pokhara via private vehicle. From Milan chowk, we will trek to Ghachok. We cross the Mardi Khola (river) bridge before arriving at Ghachok. Tonight we will experience the local hospitality and live in a traditional Nepali homestay.
Today the trail takes us on a 3-4 hour trek to Dhiprang Village, a lush green farming village nestled in a valley. The trek there is full of beautiful hilly treed and farmlands. Tonight we will enjoy homestay accommodation.
Today we follow the trail to Chichemle Kharka, passing through the picturesque rhododendron forests (more spectacular in spring with pink blossoms) and the vivid green fauna on rolling hillsides and in valleys. The trek will take about 6 hours, passing over Odane Hill (2510m), before we reach Chichemle Kharka. Tonight is another local experience – home stay!
This morning we will take the trail down to Lalka – about a 4-hour trek. After arriving at Lalka you will have an in-the-face close encounter view of Mount Annapurna South (7219m), Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli (6441m). tonight we will camp in Lalka.
Our trek today will take about 4 to 5 hours before we reach Ribhan, which incidentally is about the same distance from Pokhara. Once again we are blessed with some amazing views of the mountains as the sun sets behind them. A peaceful night at a homestay with wonderful memories of the fantastic snow-capped peaks!
After breakfast here at Ribhan, we will head to Lahchok. On coming to Lahachok where we can relax and wander around the village at leisure. As the sun sets we can sit in awe and watch the changing light over a backdrop of soaring peaks. Tonight we will again live with the locals in a homestay.
Today is our last day in these picturesque lands of smiles and amazing scenery. After reaching Milan Chowk we head to Pokhara where we have time to explore lakeside and maybe catch up on some last-minute shopping along the main road that stretches from one end of Phewa Tal (lake) to the other end. Pokhara also has a vibrant nightlife with many cafes and bars where you may wish to celebrate and reminisce and share the experience with friends. Tonight we will stay near Lakeside in a 3-star hotel.
Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many fond memories of Nepal and its unique culture and geography. These memories will last a lifetime!
Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
Services
Costs included In Your Package
- Two nights standard hotel in Kathmandu and two nights in Pokhara on twin sharing basic.
- 3 meals a day during the trek and camping, prepared by our cook.
- Twin sharing tented accommodation and equipment during the camping trek. (we will provide fully water proof two men tents, dining tents, kitchen gears, dining table, chairs, toilet tents, shower tent etc.)
- Tourist Bus Kathmandu-Pokhara- Kathmandu.
- Private transport from Pokhara Milan Chowk and back to Pokhara from Lahachok.
- Annapurna Conservation Area permit and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) fees.
- An experienced fluent English speaking guide trained and licensed by the Government of Nepal, Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation required number of porters, a cook, Kitchen helper with their wages, Food, Equipment, Trekking Insurance etc.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which 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).
- Governmental taxes and Official expenses.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
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.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
Good to Know
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ homestay/Tent. You may find comfortable and better quality homestay - without the attached bathroom at lower to 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 the Manang & Mustang 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!
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The Annapurna Model Trek, also known as the Machhapuchchhre Model Trek, is a short trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is designed to provide a glimpse of the Annapurna mountain range and the local culture without requiring a long duration trek.
The Annapurna Model Trek is a relatively short trek, usually completed in about 5-11 days. The exact duration may vary depending on your pace and itinerary.
The Annapurna Model Trek is considered to be a moderate trek. It involves walking on mostly well-defined trails with some uphill and downhill sections. However, it doesn't require any technical climbing skills or previous trekking experience.
The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as other peaks like Machhapuchchhre (Fishtail). You will also get to experience the local Gurung and Magar cultures, visit traditional villages, and explore the beautiful rhododendron forests.
Yes, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to trek in this region. You can obtain the permit either in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Additionally, if you plan to visit Ghorepani Poon Hill, you will also need the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
The best time to do the trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and great views of the mountains. However, the trek can be done throughout the year, except during the monsoon season (June to August) when the trails can be slippery and prone to landslides.
The trekking route has a good network of teahouses and lodges where you can stay overnight. These teahouses provide basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and meals. The accommodation can vary in terms of comfort and cleanliness, but they generally offer a cozy and warm environment.
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide or porter for the Annapurna Model Trek, it is highly recommended, especially if you are a beginner or unfamiliar with the area. A guide can help you navigate the trails, provide information about the local culture and environment, and ensure your safety. A porter can also be hired to carry your backpack, making the trek less physically demanding.