After ensuring that everyone is in peak condition and has the necessary equipment, we will begin our Annapurna trekking. We will start with the drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway to Dumre and then follow the rough route by the Marshyangdi River, we will pass through the low-lying villages and rice fields. The landscape along with the lifestyle of the inhabitants changes radically as we drive leave Kathmandu behind. After 6 hours long drive by car, we will finally reach Besi Sahar. Besi Sahar is the capital of Lamjung district and from there we will hike up to Bhulbhule, which is a short distance away.

Accommodation: Overnight in the best available local lodge.

From Besi Sahar, we will take a drive up to Syanje/Chamje (local buses are available). And then we will trek along the trail to the banks of the Marshyangdi Khola, passing through paddy fields and subtropical forests. Upon treading along a succession of rock-strewn trails, we will descend to a grassy riverbank. We will cross the suspension bridge below Chamje and climb two steep sections of the trail to reach the village of Tal. Tal is populated with Gurungs and Tibetans.

Accommodation: Overnight in the best available local lodge.

As we proceed forward, the path becomes rugged and winding. Then we will approach a steeply forested village of Karte. Meandering along the waterfalls and cliffs as it cuts across the mountainside, we will finally reach Dharapani after crossing a suspension bridge.

Accommodation: Overnight in the best available local lodge.

We will skirt through a narrow field from the village and come across the Dudh Khola, which originates from the south face of Manaslu and then veers to the left. Sinuous trails of the Annapurna II become visible as we arrive at Bagarchhap, a Bhotia village with colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. As we continue ascending through forests of pine and oak, we will pass through Dhanakyu before coming to a thundering waterfall.

Further on, the Marshyangdi River enters a gorge and the trails follow a rock-strewn path. We can pause for a while and take in the splendour of the picturesque Manaslu. When the steep incline ends, we will follow a path amid magnificent rhododendrons and continue on a gently rising path. We will cross a stream before entering a pine forest. As we enter the pristine hamlet of Kotho, we will be treated to an enchanting view of Annapurna II. Treading further, the route reaches a large white gate with a corrugated iron roof, which is the entrance of Chame. Chame is the administrative headquarter of the Manang district. There is electricity, a wireless station, schools, shops, health posts, post office, police check posts, hotels, lodges, and banks in Chame. The hot springs are the major attraction of this place.

Accommodation: Overnight in the best available local lodge.

After a mesmerizing sight of the glowing Lamjung Himal [6893m] in the morning, we will be heading off for Pisang. En route, we will cross a large suspension bridge along Marshyangdi and approach houses and lodges on the northern side of the river. Our trekking trail meanders through barley field leading to Teleku at 2775 meters. 

As we leave undulating mountain passes, we will enter into a fascinating apple orchard which is near a bridge at 2840 meters. On crossing the bridge, the pristine hamlet of Bratang appears. History has it that Bratang used to be a Khampa settlement. A stone memorial of a Japanese climber has been built in this place. After leaving the forested village, the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape. Before us, the Annapurna mountain range rears up. Further on, continuing with our steep rock-strewn trails to the south side and cross a long suspension bridge at 3040 meters.

From this vantage point on the bridge, we can get to view the Paungda Danda rock towering majestically more than 1500 meters above the river. En route, we will be able to capture splendid views of Annapurna II rearing up on the east and Pisang Peak on the north-east. We will cross a bridge and enter the village of Pisang.

Accommodation: Overnight in the best available local lodge.

Leaving the main trail above the village of Pisang, we will ascend the Chegaji Khola Valley towards Chulu East Base Camp. A gentle ascent through scattered chortens, scrub juniper and stunted pines take us to the small hamlet of Julu, sitting on the west bank of the river. We will choose an ideal campsite that showcases and highlights enchanting views of the majestic Himalayan peaks.

Accommodation: Overnight in a camp.

We will be taking a proper rest to rejuvenate our tired muscles for the adventurous journey ahead. After relaxation, we can even explore the village of Julu and get more insight into its cultural lifestyle and can experience it first- hand. We can also enjoy the splendid natural vistas.

Overnight accommodation will be in a camp.

As we leave Julu behind, the trail crosses Cheggi Khola and ascends gradually up to the west bank. Soon after trekking for more than an hour, a valley will loom ahead and then we will encounter a stone hut that is surrounded by apple trees. We will be bestowed with a stunning view up the side valley that reaches up towards Chulu West. As the valley ends, 500ft cliff stands on the way displaying spectacular sight of waterfalls cascading down the cliff. The trail further steepens and winds through a small meadow. On the way, we will come across goat and yak pastures. We will be able to reach Yak Kharka for a leisurely lunch. We will set a camp at a site which overlooks the stunning myriad of snow-capped peaks.

Accommodation: Overnight in a camp.