Annapurna Region - Farout Nepal

Upper Mustang Trek

Overview: Upper Mustang via Nar Valley – A Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region

The Upper Mustang trek via the Nar Valley in central Nepal is an ideal trek trip for approaching the walled city of Lo Manthang via a remote alternate trek trail escaping the previously well-traveled route, which has been somewhat disrupted by the road.

This trail is an ancient salt trade route connecting the two great mystical places Nar and Upper Mustang in a weeklong traverse through wild, uninhabited areas with crossing of the high Teri La Pass (5,560m)

The gorgeous valley with fortified Tibetan Villages of Nar to an arid and dry Upper Mustang enriches the experience of travelers with an ancient Tibetan cultures and Buddhist traditions. Upper Mustang trek via Nar valley allows you to have the experience of the off beaten trails, challenges of crossing of high pass, encountering remote villages with ancient Tibetan features which is well preserved till date, the age-old monasteries, exploration of 3 to 4 century ancient caves, amazing landscapes, rock formations and without missing the superb views of the Himalayas.

Nar Village: Nar at 4,110 m is a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist houses, monasteries some dating back over thousand years. Here one can witness the ancient settlement and experience the rich Tibetan culture in an undisturbed form. You can see the locals with traditional dress showcasing their distinct cultural identity. The dramatic mountain views and great alpine scenery surround the village. Mountains like Annapurna II, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak can be seen during good weather days.

Teri La Pass (5,560m): Teri La (pass) at 5,560 m north of Upper Mustang and close to Damodar Mountain is a remote, adventurous serene high-walking crossing. Although categorized as an easy one but due to remoteness and altitude the crossing can be challenging one. But the challenges are rewarded with a breathtaking 360° Himalayan vista from the summit.

Lo Manthang: Lo Manthang in Upper Mustang is the ancient capital city of Upper Mustang with strong ancient Buddhist cultures, thousand years old monasteries, mysterious cave and amazing landscapes. Founded in 1380, it is also called the Walled City of Upper Mustang. Most of the local houses are built out of mud brick.

Once upon a time, the district of Mustang was a part of the Tibetan empire. Sheltered from hyper-commercialized forms of tourism, it is known as the last bastion of authentic Tibetan culture. The trek through this region therefore involves uncovering the hidden mysteries of this ancient world.

Highlights: Upper Mustang Trek via Nar Valley

Visit Nar Village (4,110m) – a hidden Tibetan village with authentic Buddhist architecture, traditional lifestyles, and dramatic mountain backdrops.
Cross the wild and remote Teri La Pass (5,560m) – a challenging yet rewarding high-altitude crossing with breathtaking views.
Explore the mysterious caves and monasteries of Upper Mustang, some dating back to the 14th century.
Discover Lo Manthang – the ancient capital of Mustang with its royal palace, monastic complexes, and rich Tibetan heritage.
Traverse exotic landscapes filled with deep canyons, red rock cliffs, eroded formations, and colorful desert-like scenery.
Trek through a part of the ancient salt trade route that once connected Tibet with Nepal.

Trek Route: Upper Mustang Trek via Nar Valley

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by an off-road journey to Dharapani, the starting point of the trek. The trail ascends through Nar Valley, where you acclimatize and explore the village before heading toward the high, remote Teri La Pass. After crossing the pass, the trail descends into the magical terrain of Upper Mustang, culminating in Lo Manthang.

From Lo Manthang, you’ll return via Jomsom, visiting ancient cave systems and heritage sites along the way, before flying back to Kathmandu

Is This Trek for You?

If you’re seeking something beyond the typical Everest or Annapurna Circuit, and you’re ready to take on a remote, physically demanding trek through spiritual landscapes and untouched cultures, then Upper Mustang Trek via Nar Valley is the perfect journey.

Manaslu With Annapurna Trek

Manaslu With Annapurna Trek: Overview

Manaslu with Annapurna trek is a 23-day adventure in the central part of Nepal. This central region of Nepal is dominated by giant lofty Himalayas like Manaslu (8,163 m), Annapurna Ranges (8,091 m), and many other Himalayan Peaks. Basically, the program is traversing through the foothills of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m) and Mt. Annapurna range (8,091m), eight and the ten highest peaks in the world. This part of the region has some of the best diverse features of central Nepal. The terrain, landscapes, people, cultures and lofty Himalayas are just amazing. Crossing three high passes above 5,000 m provides you with challenge and rewards you with spectacular views of the high Himalayas. Also, there will be an opportunity to explore the Phu & Nar Valley which was opened to tourism only from 2002. The valley with strong Tibetan culture has medieval stone walled Tibetan villages, impressive Chortens, Monasteries, colorful prayer stones and encountering blue sheep on the trail.

Manaslu With Annapurna Trek: Highlights

Manaslu Circuit: This segment leads trekkers around Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters), the world’s eighth-highest peak. The trail passes through the Manaslu Conservation Area, offering views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and traditional villages. A significant challenge and highlight of this circuit are the crossing of the Larkya La Pass at 5,235 meters, which provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks.l
Phu and Nar Valleys: Diverging from the main trail, trekkers venture into the remote Phu and Nar Valleys, home to ancient Tibetan-influenced settlements. These villages have preserved their traditional culture, lifestyle, and religious practices. Visiting local monasteries and witnessing daily rituals offers insight into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Annapurna Circuit Integration: After exploring the secluded valleys, the trek converges with the Annapurna Circuit, one of Nepal’s most celebrated trekking routes. This section includes the ascent to the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, presenting trekkers with breathtaking landscapes ranging from arid highlands to verdant subtropical forests.

Manaslu With Annapurna Trek: Challenges

Manaslu with Annapurna trek is on a high-altitude trail reaching up to 5,416 m which susceptible to altitude problem. This is a real challenge as it can affect anyone depending on an individual from an elevation of 2,500m.
Altitude effect can be in a different form depending on the individual. In case of severity, one needs to be helicoptered out for immediate medical attention otherwise it can be fatal.
No proper medical clinic on the trail
Drive from Kathmandu can be delayed due to ongoing road repairing projects, sometimes you may have traffic jam, and some parts of the drive will be on the unpaved rocky mountain road trail.
In case of heavy snowfall and if the pass is closed the return trip will follow the same trail back where it started as it does not have an alternate route.
Weather plays a crucial role for having the successful and enjoyable trek in the Himalayas, so it is necessary to choose the right season for the trek.
Since Jomsom airstrip is in the mountainous terrain so weather plays a crucial role for the operation of flight. In case of cancellation of flight, the option is driving back to Pokhara through mountainous terrain road which takes around 7 hours. Flight Pokhara Kathmandu is much more reliable so after reaching Pokhara we can take the flight back to Kathmandu. (subject to weather conditions)

Manaslu With Annapurna Trek: Trekking Route

1. Manaslu Circuit

Starts at Maccha Khola near Arughat and follows the ancient salt-trading route along the Budhi Gandaki River.
Pass through Gurung communities and Nupri Valley, inhabited by Tibetan-influenced locals.
Cross Larkya La Pass (5,235m) with breathtaking glacier views.

Nar Phu Valley

Diverges from the main Annapurna trail at Koto, leading to the remote and tranquil Nar and Phu villages.
Explore Tibetan culture, abandoned Khampa settlements, and see herds of blue sheep.
Cross Kang La Pass (5,320m) and rejoin the Annapurna Circuit.

Annapurna Circuit

Continue along the popular Annapurna Circuit, crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Jomsom.
Witness a blend of cultural and natural beauty with more trekkers sharing the trail.

Conclusion

Fly from Jomsom to Kathmandu via Pokhara

Poon Hill Trek

Overview : POON HILL TREK

Poon Hill trek is one of the most well-liked short treks in Nepal. This trek may be approached from several directions and completed in different time frames by incorporating other beautiful trails. Poon Hill trek route lies north of Pokhara Valley just below the Annapurna Mountain (8,091 m) the 10^th highest peak of the world.

Considered a simple hike in Nepal, it provides a relatively low-altitude, breathtaking perspective of the Central Himalayas. From Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Tukuche (6920m) to Nilgiri (66,940m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8,091m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Tarke Kang (7,193m), Poon Hill (3,200m) provides the most amazing sunrise view over the Himalayas.

Dotted along the trail are beautiful local villages which provide the insights of the local people. You will also have the chance to tour the Gurung tribe’s museum and old village well preserved. Spring times are even more beautiful as the trails are covered with a vibrant rhododendron forest with breathtaking vistas of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

In six days, our Poon Hill trek program combines two well-known mountain viewing locations. Starting at the well-known Poon Hill viewpoint, which is 3,200 meters high, and continuing east past the village of Landruk, which is home to terraced rice fields, a rhododendron forest, and local farming, until arriving at Australian Camp. This is another great spot from where you will enjoy the breath-taking sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges.

Poon Hill Trek: Highlights

Striking views of the Central Himalayas Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges
Mesmerizing views of the sunrise over the Himalayas from the Summit of Poon Hill (3,210m)
Amazing Sunset views from Australian Camp (2,060m)
Walk through nature beautiful rhododendron forest, bamboo groves, terraced rice fields, small streams and different species of birds
Experience the peaceful, serene villages and the insights of locals
Visit the Gurung Museum and old Gurung village well preserved.

POON HILL: Trek Routes

The trek route to Poon Hill with Australian Camp can be done from different directions. Ours is a usual route which starts from Hille village which is a drive of around 2 hrs from Pokhara. From there we walk to village of Tirkhedunga in an ascending order for lunch. Then we tackle toughest part by climbing the steep stone staircase believed to be around 3300 steps to a Magar village of Ulleri for an overnight stay. This section is the most challenging part in the entire trek route. After spending the night in Ulleri next day our destination is Ghorepani which is a gradual ascend order passing through local villages, rhododendron forest. Morning hike up to Poon Hill (3,200m) to get a mesmerizing view of the sunrise over the sunrise. This is around 01 hour hike up early morning for viewing sunrise with the snowy peaks turning into golden color. Then continue eastward towards Tadapani with some gentle up then descending gradually to Tadapani for an overnight stay. Morning view from can also be magnificent. From here we continue our trek on an easy trail to second largest Gurung Village of Ghandruk which provides excellent view of Annapurna South. Here you can also explore old village and museum of the Gurung tribe. Have lunch then descend down steeply in a stone staircase then a little bit of climb to Landruk for overnight stay. From Landruk our trek goes to Australian Camp through mix trail some part in a jeep trail where there is not much of traffic and other part in a proper trek trail. Australian Camp is another great viewpoint for the mountains – next morning we hope to get some fantastic panoramic of the Himalayas (Weather permitting). After walk to Kande and then drive to Pokhara.

POON HILL: Challenge to Consider

Since whole of Annapurna region is on a road construction project so some section of the trek will be on the Jeep trail with not much traffic.
During season time i.e. April you will encounter quite a lot of crowds on the trail
Because of the busy season getting accommodation can be a problem so early booking is recommended.
Weather can play foul as trekking in the Himalayas is mostly to see those gigantic snowy peaks. Even during the recommended season, the weather sometimes can go wrong making the trip without the view of the Himalayas.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Overview

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic and rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal. First opened to travelers in 1949, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and moderate adventure. Unlike the Everest region, Annapurna Base Camp trek involves no flight trauma, carries less risk of altitude sickness, and immerses trekkers in the breathtaking heart of the Annapurna Himalayas.

Annapurna Base Camp trek trail lies in the north of Pokhara in Nepal’s central region, the trail then meanders through Gurung villages, lush rhododendron forests, terraced rice fields, and suspension bridges over glacial rivers—all while offering continuous views of majestic Himalayan peaks.

The trek culminates at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), a natural amphitheater encircled by towering snow-clad summits above 7,000 meters, including Annapurna I (8,091m).

This flexible trekking route can be customized for different durations and directions. Our popular Annapurna Base Camp 9-days trek itinerary includes a sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,200m), offering stunning panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Nilgiri (6,940m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Tarke Kang (7,193m), and Annapurna South. The Poon Hill ascent also aids in acclimatization before reaching higher elevations.

Perfect for nature enthusiasts, trekking lovers, and mountain photographers, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is ideal for those who want a short Himalayan adventure without worrying about flight delays or extreme altitude.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Highlights

Buddhist Monastery, Ancient Palace, Hindu Temple
Walk through beautiful trail filled with rhododendron forest, terrace rice field, local villages
Spectacular view of the High Himalayas during sunrise
View of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Macchapuchare, Tukuche, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli
Visit of typical Gurung villages of Ghandruk

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Itinerary Snapshot

The classic route to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani features a dramatic mix of terrain—from terraced farmlands to glacial moraines.

Day 1: 30-minute flight to Pokhara → 2-hour drive to Hille (trek start).
Day 2: Trek to Tirkhedunga, ascend 3,300 stone steps to Ulleri, a Magar village.
Day 3: Continue through rhododendron forests and streams to Ghorepani.
Day 4: Early morning hike to Poon Hill 3,200m for panoramic sunrise → trek to Tadapani.
Day 5-6: Trek north through bamboo groves, alpine landscapes, and glacial valleys to reach Annapurna Base Camp.
Day 7-8: Descend via same route, passing scenic viewpoints and charming villages.
Day 9: Explore Ghandruk, the second-largest Gurung village, and then drive back to Pokhara

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Things to Consider

Trail Disruptions: Ongoing road construction in parts of the Annapurna region has impacted several sections. We avoid jeep trails whenever possible, but some stretches are unavoidable.
Seasonal Crowds: Expect a busy trail during peak months (April, October–December).
Limited Lodging: High-altitude villages within the Annapurna Conservation Area have limited accommodation. During peak season, shared rooms (3–4 people) are common.
Weather Dependency: Weather can be unpredictable, even during favorable trekking seasons.
Winter Challenges: Snow and avalanches may render some sections impassable during early spring and winter months.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Conclusion

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is truly one of Nepal’s most iconic and rewarding journeys. From the blooming rhododendron forests of Ghorepani to the majestic sunrise at Poon Hill, from the serene village of Tadapani to the thrilling glacier views at Machhapuchhare Base Camp, every day on the trail unveils new wonders. Standing at the foot of the towering Annapurna I, surrounded by a 360° amphitheater of snow-capped peaks, is a humbling experience that stays with you long after your return.

Annapurna Base Camp trek journey not only offers spectacular Himalayan scenery but also a deep dive into the local culture and warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities. With every step, from the peaceful villages to the powerful rivers and silent forests, you feel more connected to nature and yourself.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an adventurous first timer, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a life-affirming adventure. With the support of experienced local guides, porters, and cozy mountain lodges along the way, you’ll find comfort and confidence to complete the journey at your own pace.

As your adventure concludes we return to Kathmandu carrying home more than just photographs—you’ll take with the stories, friendships, and a profound connection to the heart of the Himalayas.

Come for the lofty mountains and be part of Nature. Return with great memories