The Annapurna circuit is famous. These villages aren't on it. Eight days trekking through communities that see a fraction of the circuit's footfall — homestays with local families, high passes with unobstructed views, and a guide from the valley you're walking through.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Fly or drive to Pokhara. Afternoon briefing and equipment check.
🏨 Overnight: Pokhara hotel
Drive to Nayapul (1 hr). Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m) — 4 hrs through rhododendron forest. First views of Machapuchare.
🏨 Overnight: Ghandruk homestay
Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m) — a Gurung village with Annapurna South towering above.
🏨 Overnight: Chhomrong homestay
Through bamboo groves and rhododendron to Bamboo (2,310m). The trail quietens significantly.
🏨 Overnight: Bamboo teahouse
Full day in the off-circuit villages above Bamboo. Your guide's home village. Traditional lunch.
🏨 Overnight: Village homestay
Ascent to a viewpoint at 3,200m — Annapurna massif spread across the horizon. Camp or basic teahouse.
🏨 Overnight: High camp teahouse
Full descent to Nayapul. Transfer to Pokhara. Hot shower and rest.
🏨 Overnight: Pokhara hotel
Transfer to airport or bus to Kathmandu.
Included
All accommodation (teahouse/lodge)
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Ground transport and transfers
Licensed local trekking guide
Porters (1 per 2 trekkers)
National park and TIMS permits
Sleeping bag (if needed)
First-aid kit and oxygen
Pre-departure briefing pack
24/7 in-country emergency support
Homestay nights with local families
Traditional meals throughout
Local guide from the Annapurna villages
Not included
International flights to/from Nepal
Nepal visa (approx £30 on arrival)
Travel insurance (required)
Personal spending and tips
Single-room supplement on request
Optional activities not in itinerary
Questions
Some walking fitness helps but no previous trekking experience is required. The terrain is moderate — long days of 5–7 hours walking on established trails.
October–November and March–April. These months give clear skies and manageable temperatures at altitude.
Simple but clean — your own room, home-cooked food, outdoor facilities. Part of the experience and why the trek costs less than the overbuilt circuit.
