Mt Annapurna Expedition(8,091m)
Mt. Annapurna Expedition – A Journey to the World's Most Challenging 8,000-Meter Peak
Mount Annapurna (8,091 meters), the 10th highest mountain in the world, offers one of the most thrilling and challenging expeditions for mountaineers. Known for its steep faces, unpredictable weather, and technical routes, Annapurna holds a special place in the hearts of adventurers. Despite the dangers, the allure of scaling this iconic peak has drawn climbers from all over the world.
History of Annapurna Expeditions
Annapurna became the first 8,000-meter peak ever summited when French climbers Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal reached the top in 1950. This monumental achievement paved the way for numerous daring expeditions over the years. However, Annapurna remains notorious for its high fatality rate, making it a challenging yet highly respected mountain in the climbing community.
Best Time to Climb Annapurna
The best time for the Mt. Annapurna Expedition is during the pre-monsoon (April-May) and post-monsoon (September-October) seasons. During these periods, the weather is more stable, and visibility is clearer. However, climbers must be prepared for extreme conditions, including avalanches and high-altitude sickness.
Climbing Routes and Itinerary
The Annapurna Expedition typically follows the north-west face route, which offers a mix of rock, snow, and ice climbing. The journey starts with a scenic trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area, giving climbers time to acclimatize. The expedition usually takes 40-50 days to complete, depending on weather conditions and acclimatization needs.
The Challenges of Annapurna
Annapurna is often considered one of the most dangerous mountains to climb. With a challenging ascent involving technical rock and ice sections, as well as the risk of avalanches, climbers must be well-prepared both physically and mentally. Previous high-altitude climbing experience is crucial for anyone attempting this expedition.
Cost and Permits
The Mt. Annapurna Expedition typically costs between $25,000 and $35,000 per person, depending on the services offered by the trekking agency. This cost includes permits, logistics, guides, accommodation, food, and equipment. The required permits include:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Climbing permit issued by the Nepal Government
Liaison officer fees
Why Choose Annapurna?
Mount Annapurna stands out from other 8,000-meter peaks due to its remote and rugged terrain, and it offers a less crowded experience compared to mountains like Everest or Lhotse. The diversity of landscapes, from lush forests to towering glaciers, combined with the technical demands of the climb, makes Annapurna a dream for experienced climbers seeking a true adventure.
Conclusion
The Mt. Annapurna Expedition is not for the faint-hearted. It requires careful planning, expert guidance, and a strong will to conquer. For those who dare to challenge themselves, Annapurna promises a rewarding and life-changing experience.
Fixed Departure Dates
| Trip Date | Seats Remaining | |
|---|---|---|
| October 1 - October 30 | 10 Seats Left | Book Now |
Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you’ll meet the expedition team for a detailed briefing and preparation session.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Dinner
Expedition Preparation and Briefing
This day is reserved for expedition preparation. We’ll handle the final paperwork, such as obtaining climbing permits, and conduct gear checks. You'll also meet the Sherpa team and review the logistics of the climb.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Flight to Pokhara (820m) and Drive to Beni (830m)
We take a short, scenic flight to Pokhara and then drive to Beni, a starting point for the Annapurna Expedition. The road offers stunning views of terraced landscapes, rivers, and mountains.
Overnight: Lodge in Beni
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4-6: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,190m)
Over the next three days, we will trek through lush forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers, reaching Annapurna Base Camp. The trek is a fantastic way to acclimatize before starting the climb. Upon reaching base camp, the real preparation begins.
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours per day
Overnight: Tented camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7-9: Acclimatization at Base Camp
We will spend these days at Annapurna Base Camp, acclimatizing to the altitude. This will involve short acclimatization hikes around base camp and preparation of climbing gear. Our climbing Sherpas will set up higher camps during this period.
Overnight: Tented camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10-35: Climb Annapurna (8,091m)
The climb of Mt. Annapurna involves several rotations between camps, following the standard route along the north-west face. We’ll be setting up four high camps:
Camp 1 (5,200m): The climb begins with a steep snow slope and crevasses.
Camp 2 (5,700m): The route involves a mix of rock and snow sections.
Camp 3 (6,500m): We continue navigating snow and ice slopes, with increasing exposure to high-altitude conditions.
Camp 4 (7,100m): This is the final camp before the summit push. The climb from here is the most technical and requires expert skill, with steep sections of ice and rock.
The final push to the summit is the most challenging part of the expedition, involving a vertical climb on mixed terrain. Summit day can take 10-15 hours, depending on weather conditions. Upon reaching the summit (8,091m), you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the entire Annapurna range.
After summiting, we will descend back to lower camps and finally to base camp.
Climbing Time: Multiple rotations over 20-25 days
Overnight: High-altitude camps
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 36-40: Return to Annapurna Base Camp and Trek to Pokhara
After the successful summit, we will descend back to Annapurna Base Camp, rest for a day, and then start the trek back to civilization. From base camp, we retrace our steps and return to Pokhara.
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours per day
Overnight: Lodge in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 41: Flight to Kathmandu
We take a scenic flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, where you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and reflect on your accomplishment. You can also explore Kathmandu’s vibrant markets and cultural sites.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 42: Departure
After a successful expedition, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. Our team will bid you farewell, marking the end of your Annapurna adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Includes/Excludes
- Arrival and Departure Transfers :Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off service with private vehicle for all team members.
- Luxury Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu:5 nights stay at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu, twin-sharing basis, including breakfast (B/B).
- Welcome Dinner :Welcome dinner in a top-rated tourist restaurant in Kathmandu, accompanied by your guide.
- Cargo and Logistics Management :Full international air cargo clearance of personal luggage, including payment of all necessary government taxes in Nepal.
- Climbing Permit & Government Fees:Expedition royalty and permit from the Government of Nepal to climb Mt. Annapurna. TIMS card, Conservation Area entry permits, and all required fees.
- Liaison Officer :An experienced Government Liaison Officer with full equipment, salary, and accommodation during the expedition.
- Environmental Responsibility :Proper garbage management with stool shipment transfer and garbage deposit fees.
- Insurance :Comprehensive medical and emergency rescue insurance for all Nepalese staff during the trek and expedition.
- Trekking and Climbing Maps : High-quality trekking and climbing maps provided.
- Member Transportation : Private transportation for members from Kathmandu to Lete and return, using a private jeep, car, or bus.
- Expedition Staff Transportation : Transportation for all necessary equipment and staff to and from the expedition site.
- Personal Baggage Allowance : Up to 60 kg of personal baggage carried by porters during the trek for each member.
- Meals and Accommodation :Three full meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) including tea/coffee at hotels, lodges, tea houses, or tents throughout the trek and at base camp. Well-organized dining arrangements for all team members and staff.
- Porter Services : Porters to carry personal baggage from Lete to Base Camp and return.
- Base Camp Staff : Highly experienced and trained base camp cook and kitchen helpers as requested.
- Staff Salaries & Allowances : All wages, salaries, and allowances for Nepalese staff and porters, including equipment, food, and clothing.
- Individual Base Camp Tent : Each member will be provided with an individual tent (North Face or Mountain Hardwear) at Base Camp.
- Base Camp Equipment & Facilities : Foam mattress and pillow for each member. Full setup including dining tent, kitchen tent, communication tent, toilet, shower tent, staff tents, storage tent, tables, chairs, and all necessary cooking gear. Heaters in dining tents and other necessary locations. Solar or generator for lighting and battery charging at Base Camp.
- Climbing Sherpa : A government-licensed veteran Sherpa assigned to each member (1 member: 1 Sherpa ratio).
- Sherpa Support : Climbing Sherpa’s food, salary, equipment, and clothing provided.
- Oxygen Support : Two 4-liter oxygen bottles for each member, along with one oxygen bottle for the climbing Sherpa. Oxygen masks and regulators for both members and Sherpas, with backup oxygen available for an additional fee.
- Rope Fixing Team : A specialized Sherpa team will manage the route fixing on Mt. Annapurna without additional charges for members.
- High Altitude Camp Services : Full high-altitude support with tents, cooking supplies, gas, and high-altitude food for members, Sherpas, and the entire climbing team across Camp 1, Camp 2, Camp 3, and Camp 4.
- Internet Access : Reliable, high-speed internet access via Wi-Fi at Base Camp (available on a payable basis).
- Satellite Communication : Satellite phone for emergency communication carried by Sherpas, available for members at an additional charge. Walkie-talkies provided for communication between base camp and the mountain. Permit for Satellite Phone & Walkie-Talkie All permits for communication devices are arranged for both members and staff.
- Weather Forecasting : Daily weather updates provided throughout the expedition.
- Medical Kit : Comprehensive medical kits available for all members and staff.
- Climbing Certificate : Official Annapurna Climbing Certificate issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) upon successful completion of the climb.
- International Flight (From to Kathmandu)
- Nepali entry visa Fee 15 day (Multiple Entry) $30 (30 days Multiple $ 50) 90 Days multiple Entry $125 Visa Extension (within Valid visa period Additional $ 25 Visa Extension After visa expiration Late fee per day $ 5.
- Lunch & Dinner during the Stay in Kathmandu (Also incase early Return from Trekking Expedition Then the scheduled itinerary).
- Extra night Kathmandu Accommodation in case of early arrival or Late Departure, Early Return from Trekking / Expedition ( Due to any reason) Then the scheduled itinerary.
- Insurance Travel and high- altitude Insurance, Accident, Helicopter Medical & Emergency evacuation.
- Medical and Emergency Rescue Evacuation cost of required (Rescue, repatriation, Helicopter, Medication, Medical Test and hospitalization Cost.)
- Personal expenses Tele [phone call, internet, Toiletries, Battery Recharge, Hot shower, laundry, Soft Drink, Beer and Alcoholic beverages (During the trek)
- Personal Equipment packing items or Bag, Personal Medical kit personal Trekking and climbing gear.
- Special filming Camera and Drone permit fee.
- Toilet Soap, Shampoos, Toilet and tissue paper, toothpaste, and other item use to keep yourself clean.
- Internet Service not include During the Trek and Expedition.
- Summit Bonus For Climbing Sherpa Minimum $ 500 For full board Service takers.
- Tips for Base Camp Staff.